The Fox, Red

063 - Finally, The Payoff

Monday comes and so does the grind. Madam Odette is back to check, work, and teach me once again. I predicted this situation though. In the middle of her lesson, there was a knock at the cabin door. We paused so I could address that. One of the badgers who guards the door pointed me to four rather large boxes that had shown up with my name on them. I thanked him and dragged them inside.

They would be dealt with later. Madam Odette demanded my attention. She looked rather displeased that her lesson was interrupted but that's real life. Things happen that disrupt class all the time. My explanation didn't seem to sit well with her. But we continued until her day was done.

As soon as she left I started going through the boxes. I could tell that the largest one was the table I had bought. It was a thick, sturdy build that went together easily and could be taken down just as quickly. The other boxes were assorted knick-knacks. Utensils, some plate ware, my candle sticks that I thought looked fancy at the time. I'll still need to borrow the kitchen but it shouldn't be too difficult to commandeer a few things like a pan and oil.

I did figure out what to do for food. I found a service that packs and ships pre-planned meals. I put in what I wanted and paid a little extra for delivery on a specific day. It should show up about midday, then I can cook it later. I tuck the stuff away for now. I don't need it. I have about a week left to go before my plan comes into action. I still need that something special though! That's driving me nuts.

The week goes on in a routine that I'm growing accustomed to. This is kind of what I thought it would be like when I first showed up. Madam Odette was to teach me magic and theory. It started with an odd take on getting me ready for it but here we are. The weekend comes back around again like it was nothing. I've gotten almost all my boxes. The last one arrives Tuesday and that's for the food.

I've dodged every attempt by her to nose her way into my items. She's been respectful about it but very curious. I can't blame her. I would probably do the same.

Thursday comes and that's when I have to play my cards. Madam Odette comes in to begin classes for the day. I meet her at the door as is our usual but step out instead of letting her in. She's got a book clutched to her chest acting as the only thing keeping the two of us apart. I don't tower over her but I do have a few inches to where she has to look up.

We both just stare at one another for a moment while the cold chill from outside starts to set in. I give her a sincere smile, "I have a question. Can we cancel today's lessons?" I was blunt but maybe a bit too much. Her mouth cocked to the side, "Do you think that's a good idea?"

"Uh, well, no, but..." How do I word this? "I'll make you a deal. I know you've been curious about the stuff showing up. You give me this and I'll let you in on it."

It's for her anyway. She doesn't know that yet. Her poker face is pretty solid. I can't tell what she's thinking. She's got a few tells that she's thinking. I'll sweeten the deal for her, "If you give me today, I can show you about 6... No, 6:30 pm. I just have to get stuff together." I can see the wheels turning now. "I will be back here at 6:30 sharp."

Not another word from her as she turned to head back to the manor. I know she'll play fair. She's a woman of her word. I can work without fear that she will try to sneak a peek. I have quite a bit to do today.

Most of it is just going to be unpacking boxes. I need to build the table, get it set up, clean the cabin and make room, and lastly get everything cooked. That package better show up today. The tracker on it says it was sent out on its delivery route this morning. I'm expecting to be here about midday or possibly into the afternoon. The recipe I chose should only take about 15 minutes. I cleared it with Penny to make sure that they left two burners for me.