Chapter Two
Ophelia was grinning in an unpleasant way at Pearl Perry, wife of the state senate candidate. Pearl, as usual, was perfectly attired in a crisp and rather matronly dress without a hair out of place. The only difference in her usual appearance was the stress that was evident on Pearl’s delicate features.
“Perhaps Pearl is wondering how best to escape from Ophelia’s company,” mused Beatrice to Meadow.
They watched as Pearl opened up her purse, pulled something out, and leaned toward Ophelia in a quietly conspiratorial way, reaching her hand and its contents out to Ophelia and peering earnestly at her.
Ophelia’s face contorted with fury and she slapped Pearl’s hand away, causing money to fly at Pearl, falling in her lap, the table, and the ground beneath.
“How dare you!” snar
