At the engagement dinner, my future mother in aw s…

“I have prepared a small list. Every family has its traditions, and ours are very dear to us.

I think it is important that everyone hears these together, so there are no misunderstandings later.”

The room was silent. Lawrence was smiling a small, fixed smile, the kind of smile a person wears when they are pretending to be surprised. Bertram was looking at his plate.

Marigold was nodding as if she already knew what was coming. Evangeline was staring at her hands. My father, at the far end of the table, set down his fork.

Cordelia began to read. “Number one. After the wedding, Virginia will manage the household at our family compound, including the main house and the two guest houses on the property.

She will oversee the housekeeper, the gardener, and the cook, and she will report to me weekly on all matters relating to the running of the home.”