"So then she said, how could you possibly know what fashion is with those clothes? And, and you know Louis? That really made me angry. I would've stuck her with a sewing pin Louis. But you would be so proud of me Louis, you know what I did? You know what? I turned the other cheek. I didn't even make a face at her. Are you proud of me Louis? Louis!" Louis, who had been previously ignoring the chattering of his sister was finally forced to pay attention to her story which he heard at least five times before.
"Yes Marie, I am proud of you," sighed Louis ruffling his younger sister's bonnet causing some of her rich brown hair to fall out of place. She narrowed her deep brown eyes and stuck her tongue out at him. Even at 10 years old it was clear that Marie would no problem finding herself a husband when she comes of age, at least she won't have a problem once she gets her attitude in check.
As the two made their way to the market, Louis glanced to a large courtyard filled with boys in school uniforms. In a different time, Louis would be one of them. However, now there was no time for studies and silly games. Louis spent whatever free time he had between working odd jobs and doing maintenance work around the house escorting Marie in public. Marie opened her mouth, probably to give out a quick remark that would've gotten her a smack and a scolding from Mother at home. However, she was quickly distracted by a nearby bonnet display as they crossed through the market. It was a crisp white bonnet with blue flowers sewn into the borders.
"That is the most beautiful bonnet I've ever seen in my whole life!" Marie gasped pulling Louis to the side of the road.
"You said the same thing last week," he groaned. He hated seeing the excited look in his sister's eyes knowing full well he'll have to watch that light fade while he pulled her away.
"But this time I mean it!" An old woman turned towards the sound of Marie's voice.
"You like this little girl? It can be yours for a fair price," she said as she took the bonnet off the display for Marie to try on.
"Je suis désolé, but we are just looking Madame," Louis said with a grimace, "Come Marie, Mother is waiting for us." Marie looked longingly at the bonnet as Louis pulled her away. He wished he could replace the rags Marie had to wear, but they just didn't have enough money to spare for frivolous things.
YOU ARE READING
La Tragédie
Historical FictionPoverty has struck Louis' family, and now that his father has died, its up to him to figure out how his family will survive the day to day life of 1800s France. Does Louis have what it takes to make the important decisions that will keep his family...
