Marguerite found Henrietta Paddington insufferable. She was a pretentious snob with a rigid, moralizing attitude. But she was Priscilla's mother and Marguerite had to give her a proper welcome. Luckily, she had Elizabeth by her side to provide support and make the encounter more bearable.
"Marguerite, please, put on a smile. This is not how we welcome guests. Even a fake one would do." Elizabeth reminded her.
Marguerite wasn't even aware she had been making faces.
"Henrietta's an awful person." She said in her defense. "You know it as well as I do."
"She is obnoxious. Reminds me terribly of her late mother-in-law, a woman so dreadful she could suck the soul out of you after five minutes. But Henrietta is Priscilla's mother. We need to give her a warm welcome. Otherwise, she might get offended and never come back, and that would mean Priscilla wouldn't come either. Imagine how William would feel. Do you want him to become bitter?"
"Sort of." Marguerite joked.
"Marguerite…."
"All I'm saying is — You could have welcomed her alone."
"I could have, but you are the lady of the house. It's your duty to welcome guests."
"You know I don't mind sharing these duties with you."
"I know, but my time has passed. I'm now just the grandmother who has come to offer support."
"You're also the grandfather's lady friend." Marguerite teased.
Elizabeth exhaled sharply. "Your sense of humor chooses its moments most peculiarly."
"I'm sorry. I'm not the mastermind behind some grand scheme to bring the two of you together. But you do make a lovely couple."
"You do enjoy teasing me, don't you?" Elizabeth asked.
"Just a little bit." Marguerite confessed.
"You and I have a lot more in common than you think."
"How so?"
"You weren't what I hoped for in a daughter-in-law, and I wasn't what you expected in a mother-in-law, but I think we're both pleasantly surprised with what we've got."
Marguerite couldn't help but agree. Elizabeth was a rare breed. She loved tradition but was full of understanding for the casual lifestyle that Marguerite and John preferred. Marguerite believed she knew society's rules perfectly well—better than all of them combined—and if she sometimes chose to behave in a certain way, it was not because she didn't know any better, but because she had chosen to do so. Whenever Elizabeth criticized, Marguerite would respond with sarcastic humor. At the end of the day, Elizabeth never got angry at Marguerite's humor, nor did Marguerite get upset at Elizabeth's critiques. Somehow, it all blended beautifully. There was a deep respect between them. Elizabeth respected Marguerite for finally taming her once-untamed son and Marguerite respected Elizabeth for raising the most adorable man she had ever met.
As Marguerite glanced out the window, she caught sight of Henrietta's car pulling up the long driveway. "Here they come," she announced.
Elizabeth gave a wry smile. "No rest for the wicked."
Marguerite and Elizabeth moved to the grand entrance to greet their guests. The large wooden doors opened, revealing Henrietta Paddington and her daughter, Priscilla.
Marguerite stepped forward with a warm, practiced smile. "Henrietta, Priscilla, welcome. We're so glad to have you."
Henrietta returned the smile. "Thank you, Marguerite. It's always a pleasure to visit."
Elizabeth stepped in, adding her own welcome. "Henrietta, it's good to see you again. Priscilla, you look lovely."
Priscilla curtsied politely. "Thank you, Lady Avebury."
Marguerite turned to the maid standing nearby. "Anna, would you please take Priscilla to join the girls?"
Anna nodded and gently guided Priscilla towards the staircase. "This way, Miss Priscilla."
As Priscilla followed Anna upstairs, Henrietta watched her go before turning back to Marguerite and Elizabeth. "It's good for our children to spend time together. It's reassuring to know my Priscilla is forming friendships with children from a family of good standing and proper upbringing."
They settled into the elegant drawing room. A footman quietly brought in a silver tray with tea and cookies.
Marguerite offered a polite smile. "Henrietta, how have you been? It feels like ages since we last saw each other."
Henrietta nodded. "Indeed, it has been quite some time. I've been rather occupied with social engagements and overseeing Priscilla's studies. It's important to ensure she receives the best education."
Elizabeth said, "Of course, a well-rounded education is paramount in this day and age. I wouldn't have agreed with this ten years ago. Back then, everything a young lady needed to know could be learned from a governess, but it's become clear to me that in these modern times, a young woman must work on herself if she wants to thrive."
Henrietta's eyes brightened slightly. "My Priscilla is excelling, naturally. Her tutors have remarked on her aptitude for art and her grace in social settings. I believe she has a promising future ahead."
Marguerite smiled. "That's wonderful to hear. It's always reassuring to know the children are doing well."
The conversation continued in this manner. They discussed recent social events, the latest fashions, and mutual acquaintances, each topic more superficial than the last.
William stood in the bathroom in front of the mirror. Since it was summer, he wore beige knee-length shorts and a white polo shirt, paired with white socks and beige loafers. He was satisfied with his appearance. After slicking his fringe to the side, he nodded in approval, took a deep breath, and headed towards his sisters' room.
Before knocking on the door, he felt his heart pounding in his chest. Despite being a genius who had read extensively about human anatomy and physiology, fully understanding the general ideas of how emotions worked, he couldn't help but succumb to the magic of first love. His rational mind grasped all the concepts, yet, he couldn't control the butterflies in his stomach. His hand hesitated for a moment before he finally knocked on the door.
Inside, the girls were seated on the floor around a massive dollhouse. As William entered, all three of them looked up from their play. Priscilla immediately stood up.
"William!"
"I just came to say hello," William replied, a shy smile playing on his lips as he extended his hand. Priscilla took it warmly.
"It's so good to see you!"
"It's good to see you, too. I'm glad you'll be staying with us. What are you playing?"
Isabelle explained, "We're staging a special version of Romeo and Juliet at the royal palace. The dolls are all dressed up and ready for the ball. Priscilla thought of giving Romeo and Juliet a happy end."
William showed genuine interest and sat down with them on the floor. "That sounds fascinating. It's like a puppet show."
Isabelle asked, "Would you like to join us?"
"Yeah, sure, why not," William agreed.
Priscilla sat down beside him, clearly delighted. "I've never met a boy who wants to play with girls before."
William shrugged modestly and smiled. "I've always been a fan of a good story."
The four children settled into their roles and their imaginations took flight. Priscilla and William took on the parts of the star-crossed lovers, Juliet and her Romeo, while Juliette and Isabelle animated the other characters.
Priscilla, with a melodious voice, said, "Oh, my Romeo, how I've longed for this moment."
"And I, too, have awaited this day with all my heart," William's Romeo replied, his tone poetic. "In your eyes, I see not just love, but a future bright with promise, unmarred by our families' strife."
The room echoed with laughter as the children immersed themselves in their imaginative version of the story. They played nicely together and got along splendidly. It was the beginning of a wonderful friendship.
"Do you think they'll live happily ever after?" Priscilla asked, looking at William with a hopeful smile.
William nodded. "Of course. We'll make sure they do."
As they played, there was a knock on the door and the butler entered.
"Ah, there you are, Master William. His Lordship is requesting your presence in the grand library."
William sighed irritably and looked at the girls. "Father wants me to learn how to manage the estate."
"But this is summer. We aren't supposed to learn anything." Isabelle said.
"That might be true for you, but not for me."
Isabelle smiled confidently. "Don't worry. I will handle this."
"Handle what?"
"I'll go talk to him."
As they descended the staircase, William tried to dissuade her.
"You don't have to talk to him. I'll work with him for an hour and then come back."
Isabelle shook her head. "But that will ruin the flow."
"So what? I can't exactly tell him, Hey Dad, I can't work with you because I'm playing with dolls."
"I can." Isabelle said cheekily.
They found their parents in the grand library. John was seated at his writing desk, waiting for William, while Marguerite sat beside him, leaning on her outstretched hand. Henrietta had left some time ago, and the interaction had left Marguerite feeling a bit drained. They looked up curiously as the children entered.
Isabelle stepped forward. "Hey, Daddy. Here's the thing. We're having a great time upstairs—William, Priscilla, Juliette, and I. We're engaged in theatrical storytelling with the dolls. We're reenacting Romeo and Juliet with a happy ending. We were right in the middle of it when Goodwin interrupted us. So... William can't work with you right now because we need him more. You can continue your work later."
John raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "Playing with dolls, are we?"
"Not really." William replied, not wanting to disappoint his father. "I went there to say hello to Priscilla and then I stayed a bit longer, just to be polite. I can work with you now."
"Don't give in!" Isabelle shouted, "Have I taught you nothing? Sometimes I wonder why I even bother..."
"I think it's a wonderful idea." Marguerite chimed in. "Role-playing fosters creativity and imagination. It's a great way of learning to craft stories, understand characters, and work together."
John turned to William. "Is this what you want?"
William straightened, feeling the encouragement from his mother and sister. "Well, yes. It's not really playing… It's… It's… What Mother said."
"Alright, William. You go and play. But tomorrow, I want us to finally continue our work here. Understood?"
William nodded. "Yes, sir. Thank you."
Isabelle approached her father and gave him a gentle hug. "Daddy, honestly, the best strategy for you is to not think too much. Just listen to Mother or if she's not around, then listen to me. It's much simpler that way." She patted him on the shoulder as she said this.
Marguerite smiled warmly. "See, John, there's wisdom in their words."
John laughed, looking at Isabelle. "You are too much like your mother for your own good."
After the children had left, John turned to Marguerite. "You know I'm powerless when you all team up against me. But frankly, I'm not too keen on William playing with dolls. He's a boy, after all. I wouldn't want him to become soft."
Marguerite stood up and gracefully sat in his lap, her arms encircling his neck. "I think he proved he's anything but soft last summer when he spent four nights in the jungle with an Amazon girl and a toddler troglodyte. He is a wonderful boy, just like his father. Gentle, kind and a perfect gentleman." As she spoke, she gently showered John with kisses, across his face and head. John responded by sinking deeper into her embrace.
"You know I stand no chance when you unleash your feminine wiles upon me."
"I know. And I know you rather enjoy it. And isn't life a bit more exciting when you let go and trust my lead?"
"That's true, but you could stand to listen to me now and then, too."
Marguerite raised her eyebrows in playful surprise. "Do I not listen to you?"
"You do, but sometimes you hear only what you want to hear."
Marguerite laughed, tracing a finger along his jawline. "Well, perhaps that's because your voice is so soothing, I get lost in it."
"Flattery will get you everywhere."
"And I do mean every word," she whispered, her lips brushing his ear.
John sighed contentedly, "I suppose a little doll play won't hurt him. As long as he doesn't forget how to be a Roxton."
"He won't. But part of that strength comes from understanding and empathy. Playing with his sisters and Priscilla doesn't make him any less of a boy. It makes him more of a well-rounded person."
"You always know how to put things into perspective." John admitted.
Marguerite smiled, "That's why you married me."
"Among other reasons." John replied, pulling her closer for a deep, tender kiss.
The next day, William truly joined his father in managing the estate, dedicating himself to learning the ropes. Meanwhile, the girls found that their playtime lacked its usual spark. The games felt less thrilling.
Juliette turned to Priscilla with a bright idea, "Do you want to go outside so I can show you my pets?"
"Yes, that's a wonderful idea, let's go!"
"Isabelle, do you want to come with us?" Juliette asked.
"No, it's too hot for me. I'm going to ask Molly if she can make some ice cream."
As Juliette and Priscilla strolled through the garden filled with colorful flowers, they came across a fountain where they found a turtle.
Juliette carefully picked it up and introduced it. "This is Tilly. She hibernates indoors during the winter, but in the summer, we let her out to play outside."
As they approached the stable, a Rough Collie lazily lounged at the entrance.
"This is Archimedes, but we call him Archie. We got him seven years ago for Christmas. He was an indoor dog until he ate Mother's shoe. After that, she made him stay outside, but he didn't mind. He loves being outdoors."
They entered the stable, and Juliette's enthusiasm was palpable.
"These are our horses. Each of us has one, and then there are a few extra for guests. I absolutely adore horses. They were my first love. This beautiful black one is Mother's. His name is Dante. And this one here is mine, the one you sold to us. I named him Prince Charming. I also had a pony named Daisy. But she broke her leg, and we had to put her to sleep. It was really hard."
They emerged from the other side of the stable.
Juliette spoke again, this time with a hint of amusement. "Somewhere around here is that naughty cat, Mr. Paws. We decided to let him live out his cat life fully, come what may. That's why he's often not around. He roams about."
After seeing the little bunnies in the shed and the semi-domesticated wild ducks at the pond, Priscilla began to head back towards the house. Juliette, however, stayed behind to take Prince Charming for a ride.
There was no one in the hallway, so Priscilla seized the opportunity to go upstairs and slip into William's room. She glanced left and right, ensuring she wasn't noticed. Her heart pounded, but her determination remained steady. She quietly opened the door and stepped inside.
The room was a treasure trove of intellectual pursuits.
There was a large wooden desk, cluttered with notebooks.
Bookshelves lined the walls, filled with volumes on astronomy, mathematics, physics, and classical literature.
In one corner, an elegant globe sat on a side table, its surface reflecting a world waiting to be explored. Nearby, a telescope stood by the window, with star charts and maps neatly arranged on a stand next to it, ready for stargazing.
An easel held papers covered in notes and diagrams, showing William's latest projects and ideas. Against one wall, a beautiful cello rested, hinting that his talents extended beyond science.
The room was devoid of typical toys, save for one exception: a plush white rabbit that sat on a shelf, a small nod to childhood amidst the intellectual atmosphere.
Priscilla wandered through the room, her fingers lightly grazing the edges of books and instruments, feeling the weight of the genius that occupied this space.
William entered the room.
"Priscilla! What are you doing here?"
She momentarily froze but quickly regained her composure. "Wandering, exploring… Your room is fascinating."
"I'm not allowed to have girls in my room."
"And I'm not allowed to be in a boy's room."
"We could get in trouble," he said, glancing around as if expecting someone to appear at any moment.
"I know. Isn't that exciting?"
Before William could respond, Priscilla posed a new question. "Does this telescope work?"
"Of course. If you want we can take it outside tonight. The summer night sky is perfect for stargazing."
"Great," Priscilla agreed, then sat on his bed and picked up a book from his nightstand. She scoffed playfully. "Time Machine..."
William's eyes lit up. "Do you know it?"
"I've read it. It's interesting, but I think Wells is a bit too pessimistic about the future."
"Pessimistic? I think he's realistic. He shows the consequences of unchecked technological advancement and human nature."
Priscilla smiled. "Well, I suppose we'll just have to agree to disagree."
William smiled back. "So. Do you want to go to the twins' rooms and play or perhaps head downstairs?"
"I don't want to go anywhere."
William looked at her curiously. "No? What do you want to do?"
Priscilla shrugged. "I'm not sure."
William thought for a moment. "I can show you my ship models."
Priscilla shook her head. "No, that doesn't really interest me."
William tried again, "Do you want to look through my microscope? I have some fascinating specimens."
"Not really in the mood for that either."
"Would you like to read through some of my scientific journals?"
"No, I think I'll pass on that too."
They remained in silence for a moment, contemplating what to do next. Then, with a spark of boldness, William suggested, "Do you want to kiss?"
Priscilla's eyes widened in delight, "Alright!"
William took a deep breath, wanting to clarify his intentions. "I don't want you to get the wrong idea. Last time, you caught me off guard, and I wasn't prepared to respond properly. I don't want you to think I'm a bad kisser. I want a chance to make a better impression."
"You are a wonderful kisser, William Roxton." Priscilla said as she stood up.
The atmosphere in the room was filled with a tender anticipation. They slowly leaned towards each other, their heads tilting slightly to find the perfect angle. Their eyes closed as their lips met in a sweet, gentle kiss—innocent and delicate.
When they opened their eyes, they both wore shy smiles.
"That was lovely." Priscilla said.
William nodded, his nerves settling. "I'm glad you think so. I just… didn't want to leave things awkward."
"You didn't. It was perfect."
She looked around the room and then back at William. "Would you play something on the cello for me?"
William hesitated, glancing at the door. "If someone hears the music, they might come in."
"So what? No one will mind if I'm sitting here," she said, moving to sit on the edge of his bed. "And you're over there, playing your instrument."
William sighed but couldn't help but smile at her persistence. "Alright."
With a serene expression, he positioned the cello between his knees, tilting it slightly as he adjusted his hold on the bow. As he began to play, the rich, warm notes filled the room. Each movement was fluid and precise. The melody was both haunting and beautiful.
When the last note faded, Priscilla clapped softly. "That was splendid! Thank you."
"I'm glad you enjoyed it."
"Very much. It sounded like Bach."
"You have a good ear. It was indeed Bach's Cello Suite No. 1 in G major."
"That's my favourite!"
Priscilla was impressed by William's entire presence. He was the prettiest and the most intelligent boy she had ever met, and he was so caring. At that moment, she decided that he was the right man for her, and she hoped that she was also the right woman for him.