That night around the dinner table, Mr. Merriman requested, "Attention, every one."
All the table's occupants turned to look at the master of the house. Felicity knew something was going on. From her place between Nan and Ben she could hear Rose at work in her parents' bedchamber upstairs, apparently packing. Was the family taking a trip?
"Martha and I are going to be going to Yorktown on a business trip. We will be leaving tomorrow morning and will be gone a week, maybe longer, depending on how quickly things can be accomplished."
"Is everything all right, Father?" Nan asked.
"Yes, of course. There's just some business that needs to be taken care of there."
"I'm sure you will all be fine and good while we're gone." Mother said, weaving a comfort with a command.
"Would you like to accompany us, Ben?" Father asked.
"If you prefer me to, I will."
"Would you rather remain here?" Father asked.
"Yes. I'd like to get settled in better if that's all right."
"Certainly. I agree completely. Will you feel comfortable running the store while we're away? Marcus will be here to assist as always."
"I'd be glad to."
"Marvelous. And you, Lissie daughter, have proven capable of running the household. I trust you both to run everything just as Martha and I would, a little role play, if you will."
Felicity saw Nan cover a smile with her hand. She ignored her, saying, "Of course, Father."
"Yes, sir." Ben answered.
"Very good then. Nan, what is so funny?"
"Nothing, Father." Nan sobered almost instantly.
"Really?" Mother inquired. "Nothing?"
"Well, if it is anything, I suppose we'll see soon enough."
"See what?" Polly asked.
Nan appeared to consider her words carefully before answering. "How they will or won't live up to Mother's and Father's expectations."
"I'm sure they shall exceed them all." Father answered.
Felicity thought she saw a spark of something else in her father's eyes. But then again, maybe not.
This will be a multi-chapter, but I'm not sure how long it'll take me. It may be hit and miss as I figure out how to get it to where I want it. Please review and check out my other stories (on FictionPress too)!