As the hall clock struck ten, Lou heard the pattering of young footsteps on the outside stairway. The girls burst into the parlor in an excited rush, tittering and giggling.
“We got to ride in a taxi home!” Honora yelped. “I need to take the pack of playing cards out to John. Him and Mr. Powell are going out for an after-theater oyster shuck.”
Lou tossed his book aside, rose from the chair, and quit the parlor. The joyous atmosphere didn’t lift his spirits. His feelings hurt, wishing John had invited him to that oyster shuck, he headed to the kitchen for something warm and filling to eat. Why do they always leave me out? he groused as he entered the empty kitchen. He opened the breadbox and tore off a hunk of rye bread. Stuffing it into his mouth, he searched the pantry for some sweets.
