Isabella Does it by the Book
"Don't forget, Oswald - today we have to visit the school…"
"Oh - yes - the school - of course, the children," Oswald said with a heavy sigh.
He had been enjoying his leisurely breakfast with Ed - they had both had soft boiled eggs and toasted soldiers, with sweet strong black coffee, in perfect and comfortable silence, whilst waiting for the ominous presence of Isabella, who, thankfully, had overslept today. However, he had rather not reflect on the possible reasons for that, as he had plainly overheard it when he had passed their bedroom door before retiring last night. He shuddered at the memory of it.
Just at that moment Isabella walked in and heard their conversation.
"Good morning, both," she said sweetly, and went and gave Ed an emphatic kiss - making Ed grin widely and Oswald's stomach lurch.
"You are visiting the schools today? How nice. You know, I heard that Mayor James used to read to the children. Wasn't that good of him?" She beamed brightly.
"Erm, no, actually - Mayor James is illiterate, Miss Newlove," Oswald replied archly, smiling stiffly at her. "It's well-documented."
"Oh. That's a shame," Isabella sighed, feigning deep regret. "Well….I could come along and read to them, if you like. After all - I do work with books all day long! I would love to help - Mr Mayor." She smiled demurely.
Oswald opened his mouth to protest, but Ed cut in, "Oh, Isabella - what a neat idea! You could go to the school with Oswald while I stay here and hold the fort!"
"Erm...Ed…." Oswald faltered, the hairs standing up on the back of his neck.
"Yes, Ed, that's a very good idea! That's - erm - if Os - the Mayor, I mean - agrees, of course…" Isabella looked deferential.
"Oh, of course he would be fine with that - wouldn't you, Oswald?"
The look on Ed's face was enough for Oswald. He knew he had no choice.
"Yes, that would be fine, I suppose..." he began, with a tight-lipped smile.
"Oh, that's wonderful! I will just go and make myself look presentable. Oh, I am so looking forward to this!" she butted in gleefully.
Oswald's heart sank.
She hurried away, casting a secret glance of triumph at Oswald as she passed him. He inwardly bristled, but put a big smile on his face for Ed's benefit.
"Oswald - this is a really generous thing for you to do!" smiled Ed, full of gratitude. "It will mean so much to Isabella. And you can get to know her more too. I really, really appreciate this."
He came forward, put his arms around Oswald and gave him a huge, heartfelt hug. Oswald returned the gesture, almost melting in his arms. Maybe it would be worth it after all….
He squeezed Ed emphatically, enjoying the moment for as long as it lasted.
"No problem, Ed - I'm pleased to oblige," he rasped softly against Ed's shoulder. "Anything for you - old friend."