By the Potomac

Chapter Sixteen

"I heard about your dear Annalise. I hope she is well," one of Aunt Susan's lady friends said, right in front of me.

"Yes, she is doing much better, thank you." Aunt Susan bowed her head in thanks. The ladies nodded, politely sipping from their glasses.

"She is getting married soon, am I correct?" I stared at my feet, trying to block out their voices.

"Indeed, quite soon actually," Aunt Susan said.

"So she's leaving her sister high and dry, without any immediate family." I look up from the glossy floor, glaring right into the woman's eyes. How dare she insult dear Annalise.

"Agatha! That is enough! Liesel, please go over to Mr. Hathway, I won't stand you to hear this nonsense," Aunt Susan said, practically yelling.

"Mr. Hathway is here?"

"He's right over there. Now please do as I say, Liesel." I gave in and casually strolled towards Mr. Hathway, trying to hear just a little more of their ridiculous conversation. They were still talking about Annalise. My face contorted. I never knew Aunt Susan had such evil, evil friends.

"Ah, Liesel! Didn't know you'd be here!" Mr. Hathway chuckled. I just stared at him, still angry from the previous day.

"Look, I do hope you take up my offer. It would be a shame if you didn't."

"How did they even find some of my writing?" I yelled, even more angry. Tonight was not going as planned.

"Your mother gave them the beginnings of one of your novels; her favorite, she said." A tear rolled down my cheek. Aunt Susan spotted me.

"Come Liesel, it's time to go." She ushered me into our car, where John was standing. I saw the Peterson's house float away, just like the night was. And, it seemed, a part of me.