Scarlett traveled to Charleston on the pretense of visiting her aunts but as expected once she reached town Mrs. Eleanor Butler insisted Scarlett stay with her. Scarlett was surprised when she reached the Butler home. To begin with it was very large, larger than Tara or any other home she had ever seen and two Rhett was not there. He was North.
"Rhett did not tell me you would be in town." Eleanor said taking a seat in a cushioned chair on the veranda.
"He didn't know. It was a last minute decision."
Scarlett found herself very nervous around Rhett's mother. Eleanor reminded her so much of Ellen and yet was very different. They were both ladies but Eleanor was more personable than her mother ever was. It was her first experience with a mother-in-law and she was leery given the experience of some of her female acquaintances; however, Eleanor's approachable demeanor left Scarlett hopeful for their relationship.
"Will you be staying long? I understand from Rhett that you have a little boy. Is he coming later?"
Scarlett cringed at the mention of Wade and the hint of disapproval she noted in Eleanor's tone. She never considered bringing Wade with her because she knew he would be a distraction. The boy would inevitably want to spend time with Rhett and she knew he would entertain him. They had too much to discuss to spend time playing with trains and reading children stories. For that reason she sent Wade to Tara. After weeks in the city, he could use time on the farm.
"He's spending time with my father and sister at Tara. Rhett can decide the length of our visit." Scarlett replied, hopeful that her concession to her husband would earn her some points.
"We'll have to convince him for an extra long visit. Are you hungry Scarlett?" Eleanor asked, as the butler set out a platter of finger sandwiches and other snacks.
Scarlett cringed at the sight of food. It was becoming evident to Scarlett that each of her pregnancies were becoming more difficult than the last (a fact that endeared her more to Wade). She wanted to demand the food be taken away but knew she could not. Instead she forced a smile and nodded.
"I must say I was surprised to learn my Rhett had married. I feared he would forever be alone. I am so glad he met such a fine young lady. I was friend of your mothers you know."
"I do." Scarlett said brightening at being referred to as a lady.
"Also, I am very sorry to hear of your loss both in your mother and your son. I know how hard it's been for Rhett."
Scarlett heart skipped a beat at the reference to both Ellen and the baby.
"Thank you. It was difficult." Scarlett said setting down her fork, standing and walking over to the mantle in the sunroom. "Is this Rhett?"
"Yes, when he was 3 years old. Such an adventurous boy. Always causing headaches but such a gentle soul."
Scarlett picked up the picture and smiled. Rhett was such a handsome boy that she decided a boy who looked like Rhett would not be a terrible thing.