“This is a new age for you,” she said adjusting the lining of Lydia's skirt again.
Rosemary wiggled. “Of course it is, every birthday is a new age.”
“Stop wiggling like you're three years old. You know exactly what I'm talking about. This birthday is important. We've been readying you for this year since you were born, and everything must be perfect.”
“I don't like this skirt.”
“Well, we couldn't have you in trousers,” her mother huffed. “I don't know why you are fighting me on this. Our family, the Tussers,” she took a long breath through her nose that caused her neck to elongate reminding Rosemary of a giraffe in need of a feeding, “is of high ranking, and it is our duty to present you as a Lady fit for society so that you can begin your Secondary Education and make your mark on this world.”
Rosemary looked around her. The wooden floors, which creaked with each step, where marked with years of traffic, and the walls hadn't seen a fresh coat of paint since before she was born. The couch her mother was sitting on was barely holding on, and if one sat down hard enough, years of flatulence wafted into the air leaving a rancid aroma. Yes, the Tussers had been a high ranking family, thirty years ago. It had been their hope that Rosemary would be their saving grace. She had been trained her entire life to one day take the lead of the family's business and social standing so that they might regain their wealth and leave the hobble that had been their punishment.
She glanced down at her dress, with it's fine silk and floral pattern, a gift from a stranger that had been left waiting on the porch this morning. Her mother had been so relieved to see the box, but it unnerved Rose.
She understood how important this day would be, but she couldn't help but resent her mother. They could always choose a different way, they could always leave, but her family fought hard to regain what they once had.
In just a few short hours, Rosemary would be presented to the public with the sixteen year olds from the lowest class. From there, a ceremony would take place and the highest of their society would select those who they deemed worthy enough and pay for Secondary Education. This was her only chance to pull her family from poverty.
Thanks for sharing this with me! Just like yesterday, this one spilled over those five minutes haha. It feels so good to create. If you are looking for that creativity outlet, check out @marianewest's daily prompts!
Much love,
Stacie D
Image by Paul Sprengers from Pixabay
