'Mary, you know how I feel…' Matthew said in his soft Irish lilt. ' You could have an escape from that b******* Patrick. I`m guessin' that he`ll try to get his hands up your skirt before too long.'
'Matthew! Patrick is going to be my brother in law before much longer, and I respect him!' Even to Marys ears, this rang false.
'Oh, come on Mary, I thought we were being honest with each other?' smiled Matthew as he slung a rag over his grease striped overalled shoulder.
'Ok, fine. But I don`t like the way that you talk about him.'
They were standing in the yard, Matthew had just repainted and oiled the car…and he still looked extremely handsome with his dirty face…
'Well it's true. He's got a real reputation with the ladies in town. Heard that a few mystery babes were popping out across the neighbourhood after he was there.'
Mary couldn't help giggling. ' Mystery babes, I see…' she laughed. ' Well, that's one perspective!'
Matthew joined in. ' No, that's the only perspective!' They sat there, chatting about Patrick, when a shadow loomed over them.
' Mary! What are you doing here?!' Robert practically shouted. ' Unless you are ordering a car, there is no need to talk to the CHAUFFER, who is of a much lower rank than us…'
'Of course. I am sorry Papa.' Mary murmured into her lap.
'Good. Branson, have the car ready for 3 o'clock.'
'Yes, sir.' Ever the perfect servant, Matthew cast his eves down and walked out. As he left, he brushed his arm ever so slightly against Marys shoulder, and whispered, ' 9 o'clock, in the yard.' She shivered with delight at his warm touch.
Robert didn't notice, and scowled, ' I'll see you inside.' and stalked away.
9 o'clock, 9 o'clock, 9 o'clock, 9 o'clock.
Like a drumbeat inside her head.
9 o'clock.