His shining pearl

Ella gasped and sucked her sore index finger as she pricked it for the umpteenth time this evening.

She peered out of the kitchen window. There was still no sign of Tim yet. As she felt nervous about the impending “talk”, she decided to work on her customer’s wedding dress to distract herself. But at the rate she was going, Diana was going to end up with a bloodied white dress.

Little Rosemary was sleeping soundly by the fire. Her sweet little mouth curled up slightly in her sleep. She was probably having a sweet dream, totally oblivious to the storm that was brewing in Ella.

Ella ruffled her daughter’s hair and let out a soft sigh. How good it is to be a child! To have the love of both doting parents, a warm home and full tummy, without a care in the world.

Until today, Ella had thought she was a very blessed woman to have the love of her husband and daughter and a small seamstress business. Her world came shattering down when she discovered that Tim had been keeping a big secret from her. That her current life may be a sham.

Yesterday she had taken Rosemary to the marketplace to buy some supplies. It was a beautiful morning. The sky was cloudless and blue and there was a light breeze. A perfect day for shopping. Rosemary was skipping in joy at the excitement of shopping with her ma.She loved the sights and smells of the small town they lived in. At a stall,she saw a pretty bracelet and fingered it lovingly for a moment before putting it back.

Though young, Rosemary was sensible as she knew her family was not rich. Papa worked as a tutor in the city, while mama made dresses help supplement the income. Her discreet action was noticed by Ella who made a mental note to buy it for her on her birthday.

After their shopping, Ella bought them scones and tea at the town's only inn. They were enjoying their tea when they heard a woman call out

“Ella! Is that you?” Ella turned. The woman looked vaguely familiar. She was tall and wearing a simple but elegant dress. Though the cut looked simple, Ella could tell the dress was made from expensive fabric, unlike the gingham dress she was wearing.

That’s strange Ella thought to herself. For she did not know anyone remotely wealthy. And yet there was something familiar about this lady who was beaming down at her.Her eyes widened as she recognised the woman.