Prologue
The Cotters eat supper every evening at 6 PM.
It’s after the cows have been milked, the pigs fed, and the weeds pulled. Ma Cotter normally does the cooking while her daughter sets the table, as every respectful woman should know how to do.
Sister Cotter sets a bowl down for her eldest brother, smiling as she imagines him coming home and tracking in dirt from his latest kill. Without him, the family wouldn’t have food to eat when the months grow long and cold. She puts out an extra sharp knife for him.
Next is the youngest brother. She places a wet rag on his bowl because he makes a mess when he eats, his big, clumsy body not used to doing anything gentle.
Her fingers flutter over the only porcelain bowl without a chip. That one goes to Pa Cotter. The bowl is bigger than the rest because he gets the biggest cut of meat. Lord knows what would happen if he didn’t.
She tilts her head at Ma Cotter, who remains hunched over the stove, steam brewing out the pot. Ma’s been working hard on this one. Says it’ll be the best meat stew yet. With that in mind, Sister Cotter lays out a large bowl for the newest addition to their home.
A frail little thing. The young woman doesn’t seem to eat much. Sister Cotter thinks it might be because she’s so tiny. Like a doll.
She adds a spoon in case the poor girl can only stomach the broth again.
Knowing her family, however, that type of behavior won’t last too long.
After all, Cotters always finish their plates.
It’s just good manners.
Damn, the fact that I know so much about the Cotters based on their table settings ... sheer brilliance, as always <3
Yep, I'm already nervous about what kind of meat stew they're having. 🥣