Hourglass || By Esverian

-Part 2-

The butler leaves to order maids to send in tea for the Lady and her guest. They are both seated at the terrace's table, bathing in the shining sun. Lady Tran keeps an eye out for her guest, not knowing of her origins, nor attachment to her household.

"I am the daughter of your mother's best friend," Jia looks out at the open, where there are trees inhabited by singing birds of magnificent colors. "My name is Jia LaFleur, and that of my mother was Jidanne. Although, your mother nicknamed her Jia, which became my name afterwards."

Lady Tran was astounded, hearing this story about her mother. Jia could see that she didn't converse much about her, and she knew the reason why. Feeling she needed to prove her identity to the woman before her, she held her jade necklace and proceeded to explain: "This necklace was given to me by my mother, and the same was done with her. It has been passed down in my family for generations, and was always worn by each woman, until it was time to give it to the next. I noticed a portrait of five people while I was waiting for you and I recognized my mother among them. She was wearing this specific necklace."

Jia continued to describe the picture she saw until the Lady stopped her and admitted she did know of what she talked of. "When I was a child, I remember my mother would keep staring at the frame while she sat to read in the salon. She was quite fond of it, so I couldn't bring myself to be rid of it and left it as how it was. Now that you mention that necklace, I do remember seeing it on one of the posing girls, and I can see she resembles you a lot."

Jia nods slowly at her comment.

"I do believe you, so as for me, you can call me by my first name, Mayumi," her image faltered for a bit before she recomposed herself. "I gained the Lady title after my father's family, but you are a family friend so feel free to address me as you want."

"Ah, yes...Mayumi," Jia grins.

"So, what brings you to my humble abode?" Mayumi asks. "It surely has nothing to do with my upcoming wedding, since I just learned of your existence. Although, I would be pleased if you could perhaps attend it...?"

Mayumi's butler joins in with a tray of tea and biscuits for the ladies, startling Jia for a moment after the sudden question.

"Well, if you have no problem, I gladly accept your invitation! And as for my visit, it is a certain request I would like to ask you of," Jia looks at Mayumi in the eyes, waiting for her approval and receiving it a few seconds past. "You see, after my mother's...death, I had some trouble finding places to stay and came here to ask for some refuge. Of course, with the marriage and all, you have many things on your plate, so if you feel disturbed-"

"Oh, not at all!" Mayumi interrupts her, grabbing a cocoa biscuit. "You are a family friend and my guest! It would only be suitable for you to stay for my wedding, and if you wish to stay longer you only need to ask."

"You don't need to worry about me, I'll only be staying till after the ceremony, then I will depart for the countryside."

"Oh, is that so? Such a pity, I really wished for us to get better acquainted..." Mayumi lowers her gaze, saddened by the news of her newly found friend.

"It is for the best, but I guess we could find a solution. Perhaps exchanging letters would be suited?" Jia proposes with a warm smile.

"Oh yes!" the lady of the house clasps her hands in happiness, grinning from ear to ear. "That would be lovely indeed! As for the room arrangements, you may leave that to me!"