December 1826
Beth sat at the table finishing up the embroidery she had promised Gwen for her eighteenth birthday. It would be done in enough time to have it sent to Westside Manor. She had promised to finish it in six days, just in time for her sister's birthday. If she couldn't be present for their traditional family dinner, the least she thought she could do was finish up her gift and send it along.
It wouldn't be the same as when she was with her family. Who would assist Grace with the cooking? Who would distract Gwen so the gifts could be well hidden? Who would listen to her mother's tale of womanhood and family ties? She sighed. How greatly she would be missed. She hoped the day went well.
Gwen had wanted her there. She had sent letters to that effect, inviting Beth to Westside Ma
