Not a Very Quiet Rest, if You Ask Me

Marian wanted to scream. The only thing that kept her silent was the fact that everyone – including her guest – would hear it.

Yet again her sister had ruined a perfectly planned tea. Hopefully, Mr. Abbot had not heard any of their argument. But anyway, she could not let her guest wait and quickly returned to the sitting room: no use, crying over spilled tea.

'Is everything all right?' A worried expression appeared on Aunt Anne's face.

'It seems, my sister isn't feeling well. She would prefer some rest', Marian forced a polite smile on her lips and took her seat. 'Would you like some more t...'

The noise of breaking china from above cut her off. The noise was followed by an uncomfortable silence.

Everyone at the table exchanged curious looks. If only someone could say something to fill the silence, wished she, but instantly regretted it, when Mr. Abbot spoke: 'Not a very quiet rest, if you ask me.' He chuckled at his own joke … The others remained silent.

Marian caught serious glances from her father and aunt: a mixture of disgust towards Mr. Abbot and worry about Anne.

Everyone relaxed a bit when Mr. Abbot when on talking about his business, although his audience was distracted by the latest events.