Queen of Pentacles

Working woman aged six and twenty, unofficial manager of Maxime's Eating House and Bakery, and self-proclaimed temporary mother of her siblings.

[fannylangley-blog]

Bread and Butterflies || Fanny and Arabella

[fannylangley-blog]

Fanny let her sister’s hug envelop her. It was not often that Fanny really explored what she truly felt. She was not one to wallow and moap and generally swept worries and fears and angers under the rug. So whenever these rare moments of oversharing did occur, it was usually by accident and in the moment. Like opening Pandora’s Box; Once she started talking, she couldn’t stop and before she even knew what was happening, she had admitted to herself - and to her listener - whatever hard truth came bubbling to the surface that time. 

The depth and abruptness of her worry had surprised Fanny, not to mention Arabella. But her sister’s words of kindness and gentle touch soothed her greatly. When Arabella pulled back from the hug, she felt lighter. It felt good to get off her chest what had been silently eating at her for so long now. She wiped her watery eyes with her sleeve. Everything her sister said was valid and true. London was the biggest city in the world, opportunity truly was abundant there, and David most likely did have his reasons for waiting. She sighed. “Arabella, I most certainly cannot go to London for I do not know how I would manage without you.” Fanny hugged her once more. “You must be the kindest soul on Earth,” she said and then pulled away. “And I am sorry. I haven’t the slightest idea of what just came over me. I managed to surprise even myself just now.” She let out a breathy chuckle. “I am just a little worried that’s all. But there’s nothing I can do - about the worry, I mean. It just seems that if I stay, there’s more stalemate, and if I go I feel like I would be missing my greatest opportunity of all. And how could I possibly leave you and Charles alone to manage the younger set and the bakery? I couldn’t do that to you.”

[arabella-langley]

Arabella knew it wasn’t often that Fanny let go and let everything that was bothering her out, but she’d also been in her sister’s life long enough to see what happened when she did. It didn’t worry her how much Fanny let out in that moment, but more what it made Fanny feel. She hated to see her sister feel anything less than worthy of everything she deserved. Silently, she helped Fanny wipe her tears away while the other spoke.

She let out a small laugh and shook her head. “With or without me, I’m sure you would flourish wherever you go.” It was Arabella that didn’t know what she’d do without Fanny to take care of anymore, though she daren’t voice it aloud. She didn’t want Fanny giving anything up for Arabella’s sake. “You only say that because I am your sister, and you have absolutely nothing to apologize for. I understand your worry. I know you are very fond of David, but he isn’t the only boy out there. I mean he would be a lovely brother-in-law, but if he doesn’t make a move, he’s a fool,” she gave Fanny a soft smile and handed her a handkerchief. “But…Fanny, I want you to listen to me very carefully. Don’t make your decision based off how much you think Charles and I need you here to help us. We can manage, and Letty can help out. She’s five and ten now, you know,” she said speaking of the third oldest Langly sister. Don’t let us hold you back. Do you understand me? You have so many great things waiting for you in your future. Don’t miss out on them.”

[fannylangley-blog]

Bread and Butterflies || Fanny and Arabella

[fannylangley-blog]

Fanny was biting her lip trying not to laugh. Arabella always knew how to lovingly push her buttons. Their little banter was part of what made this relationship so special to her.  Finally she put her knife down, crossed her arms and put on an air of mock anger.

“Fine, Arabella,” she said. “If you really must know, I am simply dreading the day when these Sundays come to an end.” That was it, she had said these first few words and soon words began pouring out. “And I am worried,” her face falling little by little as she spoke. “For what will I do if he doesn’t propose before it’s completed? Then what will we do? I cannot keep seeing him and risk my reputation! And what if he does not propose and I must go to London? Oh goodness, London! I had forgotten all about it! And Mother keeps pressing me for my answer and-” she stopped, her eyes were wet. “Arabella, why hasn’t he asked to marry me yet?” 

[arabella-langley]

Almost before she knew what was happening, all of the playful banter stopped and turned into something much more serious. She hadn’t meant to goad her sister into fact any ugly truths, and yet there they were. Almost immediately, Arabella dropped what she was doing to wrap her sister into a warm hug. “Oh Fanny…shhh,” she gently rubbed her sisters back in a soothing motion. “What ever happens, you will get through it. I promise you that. You are a beautiful, strong, bright girl, and anyone would be a fool not to see it. “I know that Mr. Moore does. Fanny if only you could see the way he looks at you.”

She pulled back from the hug to look at her sister and sighed lightly as she took Fanny’s face in her hands. “I know that he adores you, and I am sure that he has a reason for waiting, though I am not sure what that reason is. Whatever becomes of you, whether he makes his move or not, you will survive. Herrington is a small town. As much as I would hate to see you leave, London presents so many opportunities for you. Our aunt presents so many opportunities for you. She can afford to take care of you in ways that we can’t. If things go bad here, you have an out. I just hope that it doesn’t come to that. I hope Mr. Moore opens his eyes before then, but no matter what Fanny, I want you to make the choice that brings you the most joy. I don’t like to see my little sister so down.”

[fannylangley-blog]

Bread and Butterflies || Fanny and Arabella

[fannylangley-blog]

Fanny laughed. Perhaps a little more than usual, for her nerves were running higher and higher. “No, no,” she shook her head, still smiling. “There’s no reason at all, just wondering.” She tried focusing on slicing another loaf, but but her sister’s pressing look made her give another excuse. 

“It is just that when the church is completed, Mr. Moore will no longer be needed on Sundays and then who will we bring bread to? Father Reyes cannot possibly eat all this bread by himself, now can he?” She tried to suppress her smile, playing along Arabella’s innocence.

[arabella-langley]

Arabella knew her sister’s tells, and even if she didn’t, they wouldn’t be too hard to figure out with how much effort she was trying to put into looking casual. “Well if there’s no reason at all, then I suppose there’s no reason for that little smile on your face, hmm Fanny?” she let out a little laugh.

“Naturally we can’t expect Mr. Reyes to eat it all. That’s why we donate a lot of what we bring to the church. It’ll get put to good use. Oh, but don’t worry, the bread that you’re so lovingly buttering will be sure to go to someone special.” She couldn’t help but tease her sister. It was fun, but more than that, she liked seeing the joy that simply talking about David brought to her sister’s face. “Perhaps if you are lucky, Mr. Moore will be employed elsewhere in Herrington.”

[fannylangley-blog]

Bread and Butterflies || Fanny and Arabella

@arabella-langley

Although it had been almost two years now since she had met Mr. David Moore, Fanny still managed to get butterflies in the hours leading up to seeing him. She could still remember the first time they met as clear as day. She remembered how words came to her slowly, like wading through water. She remembered the speckled light hitting his face through the trees, the dropped handkerchief, the brushing of hands…  

She shook herself out of her memories and focused on the task at hand. She carefully sliced open a small loaf and buttered it lightly. She looked to her sister. “When did Father Reyes say the church would be completed? It looks nearly done.”

[arabella-langley]

The time had come for their weekly visit to the church, and though Arabella did look forward to the visit, she was sure that Fanny looked forward to it most of all. It was no secret why. In fact, Fanny’s affections were largely the reason why Arabella had insisted they visit every week. She smiled, amused at Fanny’s attempt to be subtle, and reached for some of the sweet buns to add to the basked they’d take with them.

“Well, I’m not really sure, but seeing as the Church is on Lord Fitzgerald’s land, I’d guess that he’s the one that decides when it’s over. Is there a reason you ask?” she gave her sister an overly innocent look that said she knew exactly why, she just wanted to hear Fanny say it. “You aren’t worried Mr. Moore will drop a brick on your head, are you?”

[catherine-nott-blog]

“She is indeed very social, I’m sure she’d make a fine hostess. And a fine hostess needs a fine dress!” She raised an eyebrow at Arabelle, reaching out for a dark red material and feeling it absent-mindedly. “Not that they don’t suit you, but everyone needs something new once in a while surely? Or,” she continued, remembering that the Langleys were not particularly well off. “You could buy something small to update one of your current dresses? Some lace, an embellishment?” She bit her lip a little; she hadn’t thought her sentence through, forgetting that some families couldn’t afford new things whenever they fancied. Hopefully Arabella wouldn’t think her insensitive, but the thought that she could sent an embarrassed pang through her. 

The subject moved on to Catherine’s family and she replied with enthusiasm. “Very well! The young colts and fillies are shaping up well and father hopes to sell a couple in the coming month. And yes, she did! I was so proud of her, and she looked so beautiful.” Of course, Priscilla had been extremely nervous both before and during the ball, but Catherine had (mainly) kept an eye on her and they’d left before it became too overwhelming. “I do hope she’ll agree to go to the next one, because it does help. I think, anyway.”

[arabella-langley]

“Yes, she is quite the social butterfly, isn’t she?” Arabella gave a little laugh. “I wish that our home was large enough that she could hold such an event, but I’m afraid that’s just an impossibility right now.” She hoped that one day Fanny would have a large home of her own to entertain at and host parties. She thought Fanny would be quite good at it once she grew a little older.

Arabella rose her brow at Catherine. She could tell that the younger girl was nervous about what she’d just said, but Arabella merely smiled and brushed it off. “Perhaps, but I really don’t have any use for new dresses. I’m not trying to impress any bachelors, and I’d much rather stick with my old ones, even if they aren’t up to fashion, and save the money to spend on one of my siblings. Besides, the smile on their faces is much more satisfying than a new dress for myself.” She smiled as Catherine’s face lit up at the mention of her family. “If your father would be alright with it, maybe I’ll bring some of the younger kids around to look at them. I’m sure they’d love it. And yes, I do think your sister has come quite a long way. I’m sure much of that is thanks to you. If you told her to, I’m sure she would go. She seems to rely on you a lot from what I’ve seen.”

[arabella-langley]

Kiddie Time || Arabella and Matthew

@matthewlivingston

It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon, and Arabella was taking the two youngest, Eliza the seven year old and Alex the five year old, home the scenic route so that they could burn off some much needed steam after sitting still in church. She walked behind as the two ran ahead of her playing tag. It wasn’t until they  turned a corner and ran out of sight that she became concerned. “Alex? Eliza? What have I said about staying close?” she called as she picked up her pace and turned the corner.

What she found were the two standing directly in front of an important looking man and staring up as if in awe. “There you two are!” She came closer and placed a hand on each of their shoulder’s, gently guiding them back towards her. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have let them get out of my sight,” she apologized before glancing down at Eliza who was tugging on her dress. As Arabella leaned down, the younger girl stood on her tiptoes to whisper in her ear. Arabella let out a small chuckle and stood before addressing the man. “She says you have poofy hair.”

[arabella-langley]

▼ Arabella and Fanny

▼ - childhood headcanon

There’s a seven year age difference between the girls. When Arabella was 9 and Fanny was 2, she’d take her sister out to a field near their house in the summer and sit and make her necklaces and crowns out of wildflowers.

[arabella-langley]

■

■ -  Bedroom/house/living quarters headcanon

While their home isn’t tiny, the Langley home isn’t the optimal size for the amount of people who live in it. As a result, they all share rooms to sleep in. The three boys share one room while the five girls split two rooms. More often than not though, little Alex likes to come have a sleepover with his big sister.

[arabella-langley]

♒ Arabella

♒ - cooking/food headcanon

Arabella is a very accomplished cook. Baking is her specialty because of Maxime’s but she’s also taken over making meals for the family since her mother went away to London. She enjoys cooking for her family and friends and even finds it relaxing.

[rocketcandycouture]

Headcanon meme~

Put a symbol (or several) and a character/characters in my ask box, and I’ll give you a headcanon.  Yes.  Do it.

☾ - sleep headcanon

★ - sad headcanon

☆ - happy headcanon

☠ - angry/violent headcanon

✿ - Sex headcanon

■ -  Bedroom/house/living quarters headcanon

♡ - romantic headcanon

♥ - family headcanon

☮ - friendship headcanon

♦ - quirks/hobbies headcanon

☯ - likes/dislikes headcanon

▼ - childhood headcanon

∇ -. old age/aging headcanon

♒ - cooking/food headcanon

☼ - appearance headcanon

ൠ - random headcanon

◉ - Any other question of your choosing

[cilla-nott-blog]

Priscilla wasn’t quite used to all kinds of people yet but Arabella was someone she had run into quiet a bit the past few years. She delivered packages and letters and such. She came to know her quite a bit and was now a familiar figure. It was still unusual for her to be outside, that much she could read on Arabella’s facial expression. “Good day, Miss Langley.” She replied wit a small, shy smile. “Yes, I decided to take a stroll. I thought it was about time for me to get out.” She reached out and opened her arms. “Here, I shall take that and just pop it inside. I am sure that it is for my parents.” She replied, her pale blue eyes meeting hers.

[arabella-langley]

Arabella offered a friendly smile back to the woman. She’d often see Miss Nott here when she delivered fresh baked Maxime’s bread to the Nott family. She often tried to strike up a conversation with her when she could. She knew the other woman could be a bit shy, and for good reason too. “I think that was a great decision. It’s a beautiful day out. You should venture out to Juliet Park if you feel like it. All the flowers are in bloom and it’s just lovely.” She handed off the basket of bread to Priscilla. “What? Just for your parents? They don’t share with you and your sister?” she teased lightly.

[father-reyes-blog]

Alejo & Bella || Under the Steeple

[father-reyes-blog]

“Well someone told me that I may need to act more priestly though I thought a good shot of humbleness is in order.” Alejo returned with batting an eyelash, he chuckled to show he was only jesting, though he knew he didn’t have to. Arabella could be just as bad as he was, the two of them sometimes dancing around each other with jokes and jibs they only felt confident enough share with the other. Well, that’s how the priest felt anyway, he was sure that the eldest Langley had other friends she could be so easy with, it was likely his status just made her feel he was another harmless lady in her wake, unlikely to leer or be inappropriate. “But, I won’t want your poor breath wasted on me, I’ll come with you. Just for Alexander mind.”

“You don’t, but I do hear the nuns do like a good cook, so they might let you wonder around without the head gear on. After that, there’s not much difference from your current life. Come, it’s not even far.” His finger brushed against Arabella’s knuckle for the briefest moment, as if to coax her with him before letting go and beginning to lead across the dais and towards a back door. He knew the baker was someone who disliked the unknown, but sometimes a little surprise in your life could yield nice results.

Alejo was leading Arabella up the stairs beyond the door when she began to talk about her family and love. It was a tough thing, to think about passion when everything was so control and particular. But even flowers can boom in dark places, they just need to find the gap that allows through a small beam of light. Before the Spaniard could impart some priestly wisdom, she’d moved on the topic a little. It took him a moment to compose himself, landing heavily on a step near the top of the spiral. There might have even been a faint streak of red on his cheeks.

“I…no, no. Romance isn’t quite how I’d put it. I never found a woman that loved me and nor could I give to her in return. After all, I wasn’t myself there, it wasn’t my place. And when you’re not even the real you, how can you love anyone and feel truly loved in return? As for no wife, feel free to fix the situation, otherwise I’m rather too busy to venture out for one.”

[arabella-langley]

“Don’t you dare. I happen to like the way you are now, so don’t go changing yourself to try to be more priestly. Besides, you already begged me to give you my whole day off, then once I do give it, you want to take back your time? I don’t think so. You’re stuck with me,” she grinned at him, quite liking all the chuckling she was eliciting from him. In her opinion, he didn’t do it near enough. “Only for Alexander’s sake? While I’m sure he would be thrilled to hear that, you wound me deeply, Mr. Reyes,” she used his more formal title. “Perhaps we are not as good friends as I had been led to believe. Such a shame.”

“You would confine me to a convent for the rest of my life? It mist certainly does not sound like the current life I lead,” she said with a laugh before her gaze dropped to glance at the finger that grazed against her skin. It was an almost intimate gesture, though she was sure she must have misread it. It was likely just a slip of his hand. Still, it had her suddenly missing the warmth of his. She resisted reaching out though. It would be too improper. It was already bad enough in the eyes of society they were alone without a chaperone, but Arabella cared little for that. She’d already accepted that she’d become a spinster. Having a bad reputation among bachelors was hardly something she worried for. Alejo’s opinion however, she did care about, and friend or not, he was a priest. He could not have much of an opinion of a woman so brazen. She didn’t even know why she wanted to reach out. “I’ll follow where you lead then.”

Arabella was a bit forward thinking for her time. She was one of the only women in town who ran a business and she was proud of that. Though the bakery wasn’t hers legally, she hoped one day it would be. She hoped that one day she could convince her brother to sign it over to her. She knew he was more interested in following after their father in business anyway. She desired love, should she find it, in a time when marriage was meant to be a business function. She liked touch though that was not a popular thing in society either. Growing up with so many siblings she was close to, it was only natural she yearn for it. That had to be the reason.

Since she was following behind him, she could not see his face, though she felt something change in the air around them at her teasing questions. “So you didn’t have love, but you did have…something?” She knew his life must have been very different and she’d heart tell of what sailors got up to while away. It was odd for her to think about. It didn’t quite sit right with her, not because she frowned upon it necessarily but for some unknowable reason. “I would not know the answer to that. Are you yourself here?” His suggestion, though in jest, did make her pause for a brief moment before she let out a little laugh. “I’m afraid I’m not much of a matchmaker. It looks like we’re both doomed by our busy schedules. We’ll have to be content with being alone together.”

[father-reyes-blog]

Alejo & Bella || Under the Steeple

[father-reyes-blog]

“We are, but to do that, we must first take something, no?” Alejo returned with a smile, he always had that way about him. Managing to just about swing an argument to his way with the smallest fallacy or point. He often resisted pushing it, no one wanted a priest that talked down to them, but around Arabella it came out every now and then. On the streets and seas, wit was one of the many powerful tools that kept you fed. He blinked at the offer of dinner, humming faintly in thought as he felt the letter burn against his chest. Sometimes he wondered if he was doing a disservice to the Langley’s by getting so close. They saw him as a good pious man, but he’d seen so much and done much more…the stories seemed noble, but there was always an unspoken dark edge. “Well…wouldn’t want to inconvenience you like that..”

“I think you just want to shove me into a pie, give it a bit of Spanish spice.” He chuckled, before getting to is feet as she suggested, stretching out a little bit. Sometimes spending all your time standing in one spot or on your knees wasn’t exactly the greatest for your joints. He chuckled her little slap, nodding slowly. “I’ve got an idea…if you’ll join me.”

Alejo offered at his hand to her, another laughter jolt of laughter running through him, though it was a little kinder as he shook his head a little. It was hard for women these days. Too hard. It once more reminded him of the letter. They were seen as objects, things to be traded. No human should be, but people had ugly habits. “Arabella. You’ll one day feel another love, maybe not at the time society feels is right, and it may not be a whirlwind or sweep you off your feet. But it will come. You are too bright a star to not be spotted in the night. I’m sure of it.”

[arabella-langley]

“I suppose I’ll just have to be the sacrificial lamb then, hmm?” She shot him a smile that said though she pretended it would be a burden, she was more than happy to spend her day with him. Alejo had easily become someone she considered one of her best friends if not her best friend. It amazed her sometimes how seamlessly he seemed to fit into her life and her family’s lives. Though it was the priest she’d first gotten to know, she found she quite enjoyed the man she saw beyond that more. The man who let his wit slip out during conversations and who cracked jokes about Christ’s physique. “If it were an inconvenience, I wouldn’t have invited you, now would I? Now, I didn’t hear a ‘no,’ so I take that to mean I’ve got the few hours before I have to head back for supper to convince you to join me.”

“Hmm, while I do admit that you’d probably make an absolutely delicious pie, I think the town would be quite dismayed to find their priest gone.” She took his offered hand and stood, a brow raised in question. “Do I get to know what this idea is, or am I just expected to follow, no questions asked? I’ll come, but I’d like to know what I’m getting into. You say you worry about me turning you into a pie, how do I know you won’t kidnap me and send me to a convent?”

She’d admit, she was more than a little taken aback by the compliment he gave her. She wasn’t quite sure what to make of it. “Perhaps…though many aren’t lucky enough to have it. So many marriages are made for business or furthering one’s status.” She leaned against the back of the pew in front of her in thought. “My parents have it, you know. They may not be in the same place now, but they write to each other as often as they can. Visit as often as they can. What they have, that’s rare. Fanny seems to think she’s found it and I encourage her because she deserves it. Maybe one day I’ll find it. Maybe one day I won’t. I don’t expect it to come.” She pushed off the pew and spoke with a lighter, more playful voice. “I never knew you were such a romantic, Alejo. Speaking from your own experience? Did you have a love those years at sea? I’m surprised a man like you doesn’t have a wife.”

[trulyctragic-deactivated2019063]

Beautiful day || Isidora & Open

[trulyctragic-deactivated2019063]

Smiling as she heard the woman mention her order from Maximes, she was beginning to wonder when the delivery would arrive. She had quite the sweet tooth and could pass up an delicious sugary treats. Moving to stand up “I am, my name is Isidora.” she politely addressed the woman. Isidora was still new to the area, but nonetheless she enjoyed meeting new people from any area really. “Thank you for coming this way to deliver the buns for my Father.” she smiled.

[arabella-langley]

“Miss Ortega,” Arabella smiled in greeting. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Arabella Langley. And no need to thank me, it is my job after all,” she said with a little laugh. “These’ll do better if you warm them up before eating them, but they’re just fine as they are too,” she advised as she handed the small basket over to the woman. “So how are you liking it in town? You’re fairly new here, right? It isn’t often I deliver to someone I’ve never seen before.”

[commodore-andrew-warren-blog]

Commodore Warren & Open

[commodore-andrew-warren-blog]

‘It is sometimes tricky for elders to listen to their juniors, we always feel we have the experience and maturity that grant us a superiority. Even more so when one is as busy as yourself with Maxime’s, I can imagine’ Andrew ruminated in response ‘Yes in fact I have met your younger sibling earlier today, she was rather intrigued with my stories of far away lands and exotic peoples…’he laughed a little at the memory of earlier that day ‘…It was rather endearing it has to be said. There is something about the innocence of youth that warms the coldest hearts of men, I find’

Andrew nodded politely when Arabella requested tea, motioning over a passing servile and placing the order. A few moments later the young lad brought over a small pot of tea, along with some milk and a small heap of sugar cubes for the drink. He placed the tray down onto the table and waited patiently for Andrew to withdraw a small coin purse and pay the lad for his service.

‘It is indeed impossible to know what whispers occur around behind one’s back, but at the same time, it does not require much effort to disregard the petty thoughts of others. To seek popularity in all who surround you is to bury oneself in ignominy. Can’t remember who said that to me, but I think it is a wise thought’ He said, taking a brief sip from his glass. He bristled a little at the compliment, unused as he was to hearing them directed his way.

‘I suppose there is very little pressure for me to seek a partner, especially when compared to the trials young women like yourself are put through. I imagine that it can be quite daunting for the younger ones in particular, like your sister and Miss Park. Perhaps it is something that should be relaxed a little.’ He mused, his finger tapping the table as he did so.

‘She seemed to enjoy the ball, however, I fear that she is still a little unsure of herself’ He replied, his mind going back to the evening after the ball. The night was one of some emotion and it was clear to Andrew that Cecilia was in need of some company so it pleased him to hear that she had visited the younger Langley. The bright spirit of the girl might be just what she needed to help her. ‘It would appear she is at that stage where she needs more experience of our lives, but hasn’t experienced enough to feel comfortable doing so. Quite a difficult tipping point it would seem. Still, I have confidence in her, and she will be able to become a fitting member of our society’

He smiled appreciatively when Arabella raised her basket to the table. He was a little peckish, an afternoon of writing surprisingly inspired a bit of an appetite in him.

‘Savoury, if you would be so kind. Something to contrast the sweetness of the coffee’ He said, through his smile.

[arabella-langley]

“Speaking from experience?” she asked with a laugh. “I know she means well in telling me to take a break, but there’s just so much to be done with the business and our family, I just scarcely have the time to do it. As good as some advice is, it just can’t be heeded,” she shrugged. “Yes, it seems as though many in my family enjoy a good story. I wish our life would allow her to go out and see it all for herself.” As much as Arabella hated the idea of Fanny or any of her siblings leaving, she wouldn’t stand in their way of bigger and better things. “If you’re implying that you have a cold heart, I don’t think you could be more wrong, all due respect. What you’re doing for Miss Park is very kind.”

“Oh no here, let me,” Arabella objected and took out her own coin purse. “It’s my tea, I ought to be the one to reward him for his service.” She fished around for a few extra coins. “Well, truth be told, I hardly have time to listen to what people whisper about anyway. Whenever they get to me, the gossip is usually quite old, but I do think you are right. Better to just go about your life without letting it bother you.”

Arabella rose her brow in shock, “Surely a even the men of your class must feel some pressure. I suppose it is a bit lucky that though my sisters and I do feel it, our class has made it less of an issue. A good marriage is ideal but not completely necessary. Work comes first. In fact, I’ve all but resigned myself to the idea that I won’t be married with all that I have to do. But I imagine for young girls, in your class especially, the pressure must be immense. Especially for someone foreign like Miss Park who has everything else to deal with on top of finding a suitable husband.”

“It must be very scary,” Arabella mused, “I imagine things must be very different here. It’s a wonder she’s adapted so quickly. You must be a very good teacher, and she a very smart girl. Perhaps she just needs someone to hold her hand until she does feel more comfortable. Metaphorically of course. I’m sure it does her good to know that you have so much confidence in her. Sometimes that confidence can be enough to get you through the hardest part.”

“Savory it is,” she smiled as she pulled out a small pork bun for him. “I’m afraid it isn’t as warm as it could be. If you ever stop by the bakery and buy them fresh, it’s another experience altogether.” She passed the bun over to him before re-covering the breads with a cloth and setting the basket back down.

[arabella-langley]

Development Day: Family

The Langleys

@fannylangley (if you want to see it)

Arabella’s main goal in life at the moment is to provide and care for her family while her parents are away. Contrary to how confident in her abilities she tries to seem, she worries that her best effort to raise them won’t be good enough. She just wants to give them the world and all the opportunities she never had, and sometimes she feels that if she isn’t constantly working towards that goal, she’ll never reach it. At the end of the day, she loves her siblings immensely and would do anything to protect them and allow them to become the best versions of themselves.

[cilla-nott-blog]

Cilla walked through the back of her parents’ garden. The flowers were in ful bloom and so beautiful and the sunlight filtered so beautifully through the leaves, warming her face. She loved being outside, it was her most favourite place to be. The outside air was so fresh, she remembered when she had her hair down and the way the wind felt through it. She just didn’t feel comfortable anymore like that. A snap of a twig made her turn around sharply as her eyes darted around. “Hello? Who is there? Show yourself, please.” She asked, trying not to let her fear shine through in her voice.

[arabella-langley]

Once again, Arabella was on delivery duty, though this time when she approached the door, no one answered. It was the Nott household, and having known the family for quite some time, when she heard someone moving around back, Arabella thought nothing of trying to get their attention. “Excuse me?” she called as she began to walk around back, “I’ve got your delivery! I could drop it off here or come back later if you prefer?” She was surprised when she came face to face with Priscilla Nott. She knew well what had happened to the woman and why she very rarely came out. “Miss Nott!” She smiled warmly. “I didn’t know you were out today. It’s good to see you.”