Undine -

Chapter 15

'My dear, I think you and I should circulate,' Elizabeth suggested taking Sophie's arm. 'Would you excuse us?'  The look she shot Serena was withering.

In the hallway, Sophie turned to her employer. 'You didn't have to do that, Elizabeth. I can handle myself.'

'I don't doubt you can. But Serena's a wilful creature and like most of her kind enjoys being cruel. And we wouldn't want to give her the satisfaction.'

'That's not what I meant. I've found fighting fire with fire somewhat counterproductive in the past.'

'You mean you intended to smother the bitchiness with tender loving indifference?' Elizabeth gave a short, barking laugh. 'My dear, that woman is a master of manipulation.'

At Sophie's expression of exasperation, Elizabeth smiled. 'Don't scowl. It's bad for the soul and ruins the forehead.'

'What did I do to deserve it?'

'Serena's wrath? Where do you want me to start - with your beauty, poise or youth?'

'She can't be a day over twenty five herself!'

'Ah, but it's what's up here that counts,' Elizabeth murmured, tapping her temple.

'That explains it all,' Sophie sighed, unable to keep the sarcasm from her voice.

'Now don't let that baggage ruin your evening. Take it from me she's not worth it.'

'Has Michael known her long?'

Elizabeth shot Sophie a knowing look. 'Many years. She's his cousin.'

The old woman ushered Sophie out into the back garden. The sun was going, sending long shadows from the cedars across the lawns.

'Shouldn't we be inside, mingling?' Sophie enquired.

'This time of day is so beautiful...so tranquil. It seems a shame to miss it.'

They circled the patio, walking towards the orangery. The great sheets of glass bled blood reflected sunset. They met Irma coming out of the house, a small wicker basket draped over her arm.

'Lemons,' the housekeeper explained nodding towards the orangery. 'We need lemons for the drinks.'

'What, run out already?' Elizabeth frowned. 'Here, hand me that basket. Sophie and I shall pick the fruit, you go back to the house and tend to our guests' needs.'

Elizabeth strode off towards the orangery, swinging the basket as she went. Sophie trotted to keep pace with her, marvelling at the old woman's sprightly step.

'But we're wearing ball gowns!'

'There's nothing to snag them on. Come along, child, don't linger.'

Sophie followed Elizabeth into the orangery, holding up her skirts and trying not to let the fabric touch the plants.

'I used to love picking the citrus when I was small,' Elizabeth mused, crunching over to the row of dark green lemon trees. 'And I've a sudden, inexplicable yen to do so now.'

'Was Fern Deane your childhood home too?'

'No. I spent some time in the south of France when I was younger. Well, don't just stand there, girl. Most of the fruit hasn't developed yet, but there's one or two left over from last year.'

Sophie, recognizing Elizabeth's brusqueness for the dismissal it was, twisted the lemons and placed them in the basket. The sound of running water reached her ears.