Chapter 14 "Good morning dear." Ruth said as she continued to gather various garments that she thought her daughter should wear that morning. Rose sat up in bed, crossing her arms over her chest in resentment. "What's so good about it?" Ruth took a quick and sharp glance at her daughter. "I will have none of that, you hear? Last night you made a promise to me. I won't have you ruin my life with your sour attitude." Ruth turned, picking up a dress and throwing it on the bed. "You'll wear that during the morning. As you know, I've arranged for Mr. Hockley to join us for a luncheon since he didn't have the pleasure to yesterday. See to it that you present your best manners. Remember that you're a lady and not some wild child running free." "I don't like Mr. Hockley Mother. I find him to be extremely egotistical and conceded with whatever he does. I may as well-" "Rose…for your father's sake. Don't act up." Abruptly ending the conversation, Ruth turned and shut the door with a thud. What am I going to do? As expected, Caledon Hockley arrived at 12:30 sharp. In hand were a bouquet of flowers and an idiotic grin spread across his face. The luncheon went exactly as Rose had predicted it would. The conversation was dry and the time spent acting like she was actually interested was a pure waste. It wasn't until Caledon mentioned the Dawsons that Rose perked up. "Ruth, are you acquainted at all with the Dawsons?" Caledon asked nonchalantly. Rose could see a brief look her way from her mother before she spoke. "Why yes I am in fact. Rose's father was business partners with Andrew Dawson for many years." "Is that so? Were you aware of Mr. Dawson's health as of last night?" "Why yes, actually. I heard he was quite ill. How's he doing?" "He's past away. Died last night after having a severe stroke. Word has it that he's left whatever fortune he had to his nephew. The funeral is the day after tomorrow." Rose could feel her skin go pale as her hand slowly covered her mouth. "Jack" Rose whispered to herself as her thoughts suddenly went to him. Caledon frowned slightly at not understanding what Rose had said. "What did you say?" Rose couldn't take it any longer. She couldn't take being in this room with these people, having this conversation. "Excuse me." Rose quickly got up from her chair, pushing it in slightly and ran all the way to her room once she was out of sight. Ruth was getting somewhat nervous at Rose's actions. "I'm terribly sorry Mr. Hockley. Rose is…just very sensitive to these things you know. Ever since her father died…" "I understand." Caledon then looked around the room slightly and leaned forward towards Ruth. "But perhaps this is a good time to discuss…things. My father will be hosting a gala later this week. Perhaps that will be the perfect time to announce the engagement." Ruth nodded her approval. "I think that's a splendid idea. You must tell me all the details!" "I will all in good time. But first, I must know one thing. Have you told Rose? After all, she's to be my wife soon." "No, I haven't told her yet. Would you like me to tell her tonight?" Caledon nodded in thought. "Yes…tonight. And then you shall attend our gala, where we shall announce to everyone of our plans. I'll make sure everyone in Philadelphia Society is there. Yes it'll be quite a grand event…quite a grand event." |
