Effie by Stevie MacFarlane

Author:Stevie MacFarlane [MacFarlane, Stevie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Blushing Books Publications
Published: 2015-09-08T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter Nine

Effie, Amelia and Grace were talking to Suzanna Jefferies and Charlotte Carlyle when it was announced that Molly and Angus were going to cut the cake. Both brides were from the south, Suzanna from Georgia and Charlotte from Mississippi, but that was where their similarities ended.

Charlotte was a raven haired, blue-eyed beauty with a reserved nature, while Suzanna appeared to be quite outspoken. With her blonde hair and dark brown eyes, she was lovely, but her personality left a lot to be desired. Her condescending tone of voice was mildly offensive to the three young ladies from Massachusetts. Repeatedly she referenced the war of 'Northern aggression' as the reason she found herself in her current situation.

"Miss Jeffries, the war has been over for more than ten years," Effie pointed out kindly.

"Maybe for the North, Miss Lane," Susanna drawled, "but the South has suffered mightily at the hands of the Yankees. Our family fortune was lost when I was still a child and my dowry along with it. I don't expect you to understand, being from the north and all, but the war left the pickin's mighty slim south of the Mason Dixon line. From what I understand, y'all come from wealthy families. I imagine you had your choice of eligible suitors.

"Mah situation was slightly different. It was desperation that brought me here, so y'all must excuse my simple southern manner. I came here expecting to marry a rich man," she continued shooting a spiteful glare at Amelia. "I guess I arrived a little late and you'll pardon my saying so, Mrs. Jordan, had I arrived on time I wonder if you'd still be wearing that fancy ring on your finger."

Grace gasped, stunned at the woman's rude remark.

"I believe you're mistaken, Miss Jeffries," Amelia replied softly as she took hold of Effie's arm, stopping her from confronting the offensive young woman. "I know you're well aware the letter you received signed by my husband was forged and a regrettable mistake." Ignoring the angry faces of her friends Amelia continued. "I believe your letter actually came from Jonathan Reynolds, a lumberjack who works for my husband."

"So I've been told," Susanna said with a frown as she smoothed a wrinkle from her dress, sending the hooped skirt swaying like a bell.

"And have you met Mr. Reynolds?"

"I have, and unfortunately I found him to be as rough and crude as his work worn hands. I don't see how I could possibly marry a man who would snag my dress every time he brushed by me," she insisted with a roll of her eyes. "No, I believe I shall set my sights on the other Mr. Jordon. At least he has breeding and money. Now if you ladies will excuse me, I see Samuel is alone. I'm sure now would be a good time to secure a few private moments with him."

Effie yanked her arm away from Amelia and took two steps in the direction Susanna hurried off in before Grace pulled her back. Charlotte took the opportunity to hastily escape, appalled at Suzanna's impertinent behavior.

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