I’m sorry this is being posted later than I had promised. This is the third part of the Mrs. Clyde miniseries. You can go to part one and part two or see the Miniseries page to search for which part you wish to read. Please visit my Patreon to support my blog and enjoy patron-only content as it will allow me to continue with my work.
Life in the Clyde mansion goes on. Theodore and Rose Marie plan dates around their work schedule and have friends over when the weather is nice. The news coverage of Theodore taking a new wife dies down. But of course, when they Clyde's are invited to high-profile parties, what designer clothes, shoes, jewelry, and accessories that Rose Marie is wearing are mentioned in the papers. For the most part, the staff works wonderfully. A part-time worker is being promoted to full-time to help fill the vacant position Jack has left. The worker in question stepped up most when the staff was preparing the mansion for Rose Marie's introduction party. It was wonderful that the troublesome three had fallen to two.
Sitting in her lounge room, Rose Marie is reading a short book Charlotte recommended when the two last had lunch in town. Rose is overjoyed that she has managed to make friends here on the east coast. She's spending some of her days away from Theodore; no matter how much she loves him, a few minutes to herself is needed. The novella Charlotte lent her is a murder mystery starring three female cousins. Rose Marie is smack in the middle of the plot where one of the cousins figured out who the murderer is. Hearing a light knock on the lounge room door, Rose Marie bookmarks her page and calls for the person to enter.
Bonnie opens the door and steps into the lounge room, "Good morning, Mrs. Rose Marie."
Rose smiles, "Good morning to you too. Does Theodore need me?"
"Yes, Mr. Theodore wants to see you in his informal sitting room," says Bonnie.
"I see. Thank you, Bonnie," nods Rose Marie.
Rose places the novella she was reading on a white and gold baroque side table. Bonnie leaves the room first, while Rose Marie follows her out. The two women then go their separate ways. The walk to Theodore's informal sitting room is a quiet one with only the sound of her in-house shoes making light taps on the floor. Reaching the correct room, she knocks once and enters. She sees Theodore with half his shirt unbutton and looking over some papers while he's drinking coffee. Rose moves closer to her husband sitting at the table. She places a hand on his shoulder and leans down to kiss his temple. Seeing the smile on his face, Rose sits down in a chair beside him.
"You wished to see me?" she smiles.
"Yes, I have some news that will affect the next week or so. I'll be going on a short business trip with Albert tomorrow morning. Which means you'll be here to run things by yourself," Theodore informs her.
"Don't worry the mansion will be in one piece once you return," says Rose Marie.
"My flower, I want you to tell me if those two make things difficult for you, alright?"
"I know, Teddy. I'm sure everything will be fine," she kisses him.
With the conversation over Rose Marie leaves the informal sitting room to return to her lounge. The day goes on with Theodore and Rose Marie eating lunch and dinner together in the dining room at the front wing of the mansion. Albert has his and Theodore's luggage packed for the trip later that same evening. Almost everyone turns in early that night with only Miss Jones in the closed-off portion of the mansion. What Miss Jones does in Lucille's personal rooms is a mystery to everyone else who lives in the mansion. Not even Frank knows what Edith does in there. As for the other members of staff, they don't think too hard about it. As far as they are concerned, Edith is just keeping Lucille's rooms clean.
The next day, the sound of birds chirping is the sound of the morning song. Albert, Peter, and Theodore are at the front of the mansion as Rose Marie says goodbye to her husband as he and the other men are ready for the long trip. They kiss each other one last time before Theodore gets into the car. Rose Marie keeps waving until the car is halfway down the pathway away from the mansion. Putting her arm down, Rose goes up the stairs where Bonnie awaits her. Bonnie then escorts Rose Marie to the breakfast room in her personal rooms for her morning meal. The day is somewhat lonely for Rose Marie now that Theodore is gone. However, not wanting to mope around her home, she calls Theresa over so she may finally meet her new niece.
Hearing from their conversation that Rose needed company, Theresa takes her daughter, Judith, with her to the Clyde mansion. Having never met her niece before, Rose Marie asks Lois to make snacks that Judith loved from her previous visits. She then asks Joyce and Jack to tidy up her sewing room. She has Bonnie help her pick out an outfit that will make it easier to play with Judith. Bonnie giggles at all the fuss Rose Marie is going through to impress her six-year-old niece. With everything ready, Rose feels confident that she'll make a good first impression. She waits in her sewing room and soon Judith and Theresa enter with Bonnie holding the door open for them. Rose gets up and hugs Theresa. She then looks at Judith saying “hello” to the little girl and smiling at her. Judith smiles back shaking hands with her new aunt. Having her guest come fully into the room, Judith spots the snacks on the table. Rose encourages her to go ahead and have a taste since Rose made sure the snacks were ready for her before she and Theresa came. Judith makes a sound of joy and pulls out one of the chairs to sit up at the table. Her mother and aunt join her right after she starts happily snacking.
Rose Marie asks Judith all about her favorite things to do. Judith tells her about her piano playing and love of numbers. The three spend the late morning and afternoon talking about different subjects that suit Judith's fancy. When it's time for lunch, Bonnie calls the sewing room to tell them that lunch will be served in the right-wing dining room. Rose Marie leads her guest there and all three of them have a nice lunch together. While eating, Theresa brings up the idea of having a small dinner party to Rose Marie, including all her friends and family. Liking the idea, Rose Marie and Theresa with Judith adding her youthful advice, begin spinning ideas of what the dinner party should be like. Lunch is finished and the three go to the backyard to walk off what they just ate. When it became the late afternoon, Theresa and Judith depart from the Clyde mansion. Rose Marie gives Judith and Theresa a hug just before they enter the car to go home.
Reentering the mansion, Rose Marie goes to the shared bedroom to call Theodore at the hotel he's staying at. The phone rings once before he answers. The couple discusses their day, Rose Marie brings up the dinner party idea she spoke about with Theresa. Theodore is astonished his flower wishes to have another party so soon after her introduction ball, but hearing that it will only have their closest friends and family there he easily complies. Expressing her love for him, Rose then goes on to talk about what she discussed with Judith. Theodore adds his own ideas for the dinner party. She mentions that she also wants to start redecorating parts of the mansion.
"That hasn't been changed since, since..." Theodore tappers off from what he was saying.
"Teddy?" says Rose Marie.
"It's almost been five years now," Theodore's words have a depressing gravity about them.
"If the idea bothers you, you can just forget it," Rose Marie attempts to drop the topic entirely, worried about her husband's hesitation.
"No. The change is... the change is necessary. I think I would like a clean minimalist style with rich colors and dark woods. It will give the mansion a different atmosphere from how it is now," Theodore tells her.
"I think I could do that with Joyce's help," says Rose Marie, "Teddy, I love you and hopefully when you come home you will like the changes."
"I love you too, my flower. I'm sure the change will make me feel more at home," Theodore agrees, quite hopeful.
They talk for a little longer and then hang up as it is time for dinner. The evening is quieter than normal and Rose Marie spends her time before bed reading a different novella from yesterday. At breakfast time the following morning, Rose Marie has waffles and fruits to eat thanks to Lois cooking for her. She then goes through her normal routine before she goes into Theodore's study. In one of the side drawers of Theodore’s desk, she finds his budget book for the mansion and copies the budget for the next few weeks on a typewriter atop his desk. The typing leaves her hands cramping but she's finished and returns the budget book to its proper place. Taking the copy of the budget, Rose Marie goes to her study room and goes to the phone. She calls for Bonnie and Joyce to join her. The two women enter the study room within a few minutes and Rose Marie has them pull up two chairs before her desk.
"Starting today we will be starting two projects by ourselves, that should be nearly completed before Theodore and Albert return," Rose Marie tells the two women.
"What are those projects, Mrs. Rose Marie?" Joyce quirks, intrigued at the suddenness of the Mistresses action.
"The easy project will be preparing for a small dinner party upon my husband's return. The hard project is redesigning the look of parts of the mansion. I feel it would be good for a change," says Rose Marie.
"I rather like how things are, but changing it to something new will make for a fun project!" Bonnie grins with obvious excitement.
Joyce looks at Rose Marie hard, judging why she would want to change how the mansion looked now. It has remained the same since Lucille was the mistress and despite her feelings of the past mistress, how the mansion currently stands has evoked plenty of different feelings for everyone who lives in its halls.
"Theodore agreed to the change. If it will make you feel better, Joyce, you can call him right now. The mansion is, of course, your home too," complies Rose Marie.
"I'll be quick," Joyce assures her.
She gets up and leaves the room for a considerable amount of time. Rose Marie and Bonnie talk about the things that would be necessary for the party and write down the estimated amount needed for said party. Considering that this party will be smaller, the cost would be far less than Rose Marie's introduction party. Joyce comes back to the study room and has a friendly smile on her face. She sits down in the chair she left earlier.
"Thank you for letting me call Mr. Theodore," says Joyce.
"I want to get along with all of you and part of that is taking into account everyone's feelings," says Rose Marie earnestly.
"We got the budget for the party figure out already so it's time to estimate the cost to redecorate the mansion," Bonnie redirects the conversation.
"Right, I think it would be a good idea if you sold all the old furniture since it's all in good condition," suggests Joyce.
The three women go on to bounce ideas off each other. They work out were quite a few new pieces of furniture should come from, as well as what antique shops would take any furniture that did not sell. The choices that Theodore asked for are brought up by Rose Marie; Joyce suggests shops that can fulfill Theodore’s wishes. They spend the next two hours talking about it and when it is time for lunch their discussion is thoroughly completed.
Over the following days, furniture from the left-wing rooms is removed, the walls are painted a sterile white, and accounts were settled. Joyce has Jack help her direct the painters and movers. He does this with a visibly displeased expression on his brow. Miss Jones has not been able to remove the heartbroken look on her face as more and more rooms in the mansion fall to change. With these adjustments, the choices that Rose Marie and Theodore collaborated on, replaces Lucille's waning influence on the mansion.
The day before Theodore and Albert return home, Rose Marie pens a letter to her parents in her day room. Rose writes about her time with her new friends; tells them of the books she has read. She writes about how her relationship with Theodore grew deeper after their honeymoon. Rose Marie admits how two of the staff still refuse to get along with her. Finally, Rose Marie addresses to her parents how Lucille's personal rooms still enforce her presence on each person who lives in the mansion. She ends her letter asking what she should do about it. Finished with her letter, she puts it in an envelope and calls Bonnie to her. Bonnie comes into her day room and Rose Marie hands over the envelope. Bonnie does what is asked of her and Rose Marie goes to check on Joyce who is directing the James Moving Company workers in placing the new furniture. Seeing Rose Marie, Joyce asks how she likes the new golden yellow color of the walls and dark mahogany flooring.
"It's great! The guest rooms have a completely different feel to them than before," Rose Marie praises.
Joyce thanks, Rose Marie for the compliment, "The family rooms will be a berry red and a dark mahogany."
"I have a feeling that Theodore will appreciate your efforts, Joyce," says Rose Marie.
"I'm just happy the feel of the mansion is changing."
"Me too," Rose Marie replied, deeply relieved.
Rose Marie leaves Joyce and the workers to their jobs. The day is busy on the left side of the mansion and as the James Moving Company workers move tirelessly on their job. All the old furniture in the guest and family rooms, except the furniture from the library and gallery, are sold. Although there are rooms that still need new furnishings, they look different from how they once were. The change makes Rose Marie happy because the late mistress's influence is now isolated to her personal rooms alone. When Theodore tours this part of the mansion again, he will be happy to find some of the things he wanted are accomplished.
The late afternoon becomes the evening and the visiting workers from earlier are gone. Rose Marie is in her boudoir room with a glass of wine in her hand as she listens to the radio. She wears a black nightgown gifted to her by Theodore. Tonight will be the last night before her husband returns home. From what she can tell, Miss Jones will be asking to speak to Theodore in private on the matter of the changes happening in the mansion. Rose believes the new additions are a good thing but it seems Miss Jones would rather be stuck with Lucille as the only mistress of the mansion. As long as Miss Jones does her job, there's no need to fire her. Finishing her wine, Rose Marie turns off the radio and leaves her boudoir room for the kitchen. Once there, she washes the glass before placing it on the drying rack. The lights get shut off as she leaves the kitchen and goes to the bedroom. Getting in the bed, Rose Marie lays her body towards the spot Theodore usually sleeps in. Saying a quiet goodnight to the empty space, she falls asleep.
It's the day of Albert and Theodore's return. Rose Marie waits on the front balcony so she can spy when Peter drives the car up to the mansion. She drinks her tea with Bonnie chatting away about what is going to be served for lunch and dinner because of the return of the mansion's master. Glancing to the driveway again, Rose Marie sees the car. Her face calm face morphs into a bright smile.
"I guess you spot the car," teases Bonnie.
"Oh, hush. I'm allowed to want to see my husband back home," chides Rose Marie.
Standing up from her seat, Rose Marie moves closer to the edge of the balcony to get a better scope of the driveway. She fixes her hair without a mirror to glance at and moves to go downstairs. Bonnie puts the tea set back on a tray and she leaves the balcony to go to the kitchen. Standing in the foyer, Rose Marie is near jittering with excitement as she watches the front doors open for Albert and Theodore to come into the mansion. Theodore places the luggage he was carrying down and holds open his arms for Rose Marie to hug him. She saunters up and they wrap their arms around each other. They exchange a brief kiss and Rose Marie asks them about their short trip.
"It was fine, boring and annoying, but fine," says Theodore.
"How so?" she questions him.
"Mr. Theodore just had to settle a dispute between a couple family members," Albert explains.
"Mostly dealing with who gets how much money. Honestly, their mother died only a week ago and that's what they had their minds on," Theodore shakes his head with irritation.
"I'm guessing you and Theresa didn't fight on who gets to stay in the mansion?" says Rose Marie with a raised eyebrow.
"The only reason I live here is that Mother didn't feel comfortable living here herself anymore. Theresa prefers living in trendy apartments more than mansions. I just got stuck with it by default," explains Theodore.
The three walks to Theodore's study and Rose Mare brings up that she copied the budget to best figure out the money needed to redecorate the rooms of the mansion. She departs to go get the copy in her study room and in her absence; Miss Jones enters Theodore's study immediately after. It's easy to see that Miss Jones is unhappy with something, or certainly someone. She stands in front of his desk.
"What is it Miss Jones?" says Theodore.
"That girl has gone too far!" she crows in outrage. Theodore is surprised that she nearly yells that statement.
"How did Rose Marie accomplish that?" Theodore says evenly.
"She's changing the very look of the mansion! What's left of the late mistress is...are her personal rooms!"
"I think it is better this way," Theodore replies with a stern expression.
"Mr. Clyde you can't mean that! Her legacy must live on,"
"Can't you hear yourself, Miss Jones? The mansion cannot remain in the past. It changed when father passed away, it should change now that Lucille is gone. I want to feel at home in my house,"
"Well, it doesn't feel like home to me!" Miss Jones rowdily leaves the study room.
Theodore hears Rose Marie question Miss Jones's attitude. Miss Jones tells Rose Marie to mind herself and she stomps down the hallway. His wife enters his study with a copy of the budget she made. Closing the door behind her, Rose Marie walks to his desk with soft footsteps. It seems she does this because of Miss Jones's own stomping that they both can still hear. Sitting on the edge of his desk, Rose Marie hands Theodore the copy of the budget. He looks over it and compares it to the original.
"I believe Miss Jones's behavior has to do with me?" says Rose Marie.
Theodore takes her hand and kisses it, "Yes, my flower, Miss Jones isn't happy with what has been done to the mansion."
"I knew she was going to air her grievances sometime after you returned," Rose sighs.
"I wish there was a way for her to get herself out of the past,"
"Some people just won't, Teddy. We may have to think about replacing another employee soon,"
The two go over the budget together. After they are done, Rose Marie leads Theodore through the family and guest rooms that have been repainted and redecorated. Although everything has yet to be finished, Theodore has an excited look on his face seeing the vision he and Rose Marie created come to life. The rest of the day is spent with the couple being able to have time alone together once more.
The following day, Leo and Jeanette Jenkins along with Claude and Viola Perry visit the mansion to celebrate Theodore’s returned from his business trip. Considering it is still warm outside and the turning leaves are a beautiful sight to behold, Rose Marie has their guest escorted outside to the cabana, which is within the outdoor entertaining area. With everyone talking about the upcoming dinner party Lois directs kitchen staff members in serving the light meal and drinks.
"I have to warn you all that I've asked Lois to have our drinks mixed with alcohol," says Rose Marie.
"It sounds good to me. I won't need any afternoon coffee now," Theodore welcomes the twist.
Viola takes a small whiff of her drink, "Rose Marie dear, it's too early to be drinking. I don't smell any alcohol."
Jeanette and Leo take a sip of their drinks first. Leo's eyes widen some, "Well now I'm awake. Mrs. Clyde, you like to keep your word."
"I like this! I'm going to have to steal this recipe for myself now," says Jeanette.
Claude continues to eat, "I'm not one for much alcohol; may I please have some water instead?"
"Of course Mr. Perry," says Lois. Claude's water is brought to him; the alcohol-infused drink is removed.
Theodore has to chuckle at Rose Marie's actions. She managed to make the pleasant visit more interesting for himself and their guest. His days in the mansion have become happier following her arrival. His home life can only become better now with such a loving wife there. The lunch continues with everyone who wants alcohol-infused drinks having two more glasses. Lois then had the other kitchen staffers change the drinks to water and offered the fruit to snack on as it becomes later in the afternoon. It's the early evening when the Jenkins and Perry’s leave the mansion. Theodore and Rose Marie thank the kitchen staff for their work. Making a request for what to eat for a late dinner, Theodore goes to his music room. Rose Marie chooses to go to the library at the front of the mansion to read. They stay apart from each other until dinner which they eat in the dining room in the front wing. Thankful for the meal, Rose Marie and Theodore turn in for the night along with the permanent staff.
The week finishes and the day of the party draw near. All the rooms that were redecorated are nearly filled with all new furniture. Wanting to see the progress of the remodeling, Rose Marie and Theodore tour the rooms once more. They look proud of what Joyce has accomplished so far. Theodore gives Joyce a rise that same day for her hard work. It will be around the time of the dinner party when everything is complete. It's thrilling to Rose Marie as this is one of the biggest changes she's made to the mansion. Maybe it won't be the only big change either; of course, any changes she does make will be done with Theodore.
On the day of the dinner party, the family and guest rooms are fully changed from how Lucille had once decorated them. From the ceiling to the floors, not a trace of what was left behind remains. It causes both a breath of relief and a twinge of uncertainty. Those rooms had been that way since the beginning of Theodore and Lucille's marriage. Albert and Joyce lead Rose Marie and Theodore through the finished redecorated rooms. Rose Marie makes a few comments on the details Joyce goes over as the tour goes on. She's clearly happy with the final product and looks forward to when either family or friends spend the night in this part of the mansion. Theodore can only be amazed at the finished result. He runs his figures over a table. He mumbles to himself and Rose Marie looks at him in worry.
"Theodore?" she queries.
"This is really how it will be from now on," he says.
"Theodore," says Albert.
Theodore kisses his wife's hand, "This is good. I'm happy; I'm just a little overwhelmed. Everything’s prepared for the dinner party tonight too, right?"
Albert smiles, "It will be a lovely event,"
After the tour finishes Bonnie takes Rose Marie to her dressing room to freshen up and change into her evening dress and makeup. Albert assists Theodore to his dressing room to freshen up and dress in a tuxedo for the night. Prepped for the party, they wait as it will be soon when the first cars come up the driveway carrying their guest.
It's finally the evening and the dinner party is about to begin. Their family members and a small group of friends are led to the Dining Hall. The Dining Hall itself has colors of dark berries and gold. The warm lighting makes every plate and accessory glitter with glamor. Everyone is seated and the staff working this evening brings out the appetizers and drinks. Everything is going well with the main course and side dishes being cooked to perfection. Lois receives many compliments for his cooking. With dessert and complimentary alcohol in everyone's system, a tongue becomes too loose during the various conversations.
"Parties like this make me think about how Lucille would have hosted it herself," the whole Dining Hall goes quiet.
The members of staff stop working and look at the guest to see who had made the comment. It was not because everyone has an alcoholic flush across their face, except for Theodore. Albert can see that Theodore becomes depressed instantly. The sound of a chair moving back echoes in the Dining Hall and all the people in it look to where the noise came from.
"If you will all excuse me, I'm not feeling well," Theodore gets up from his chair.
He leaves the Dining Hall and everyone at the long table can hear his footsteps because of how silent it is in the hall. All along with the table, everyone loses the joyful flush on their cheeks. Theresa looks ready to follow her brother but knows he needs a few minutes to himself first. Rose Marie stands up and gives a stiff smile to those still sitting.
"Thank you all for coming to this little dinner party. I hate to end the party like this, but it's for the best. Lois, can you make sure everyone has a glass of water to drink before they leave? Now if you excuse me," says Rose Marie.
She lets Albert handle the guest as she looks for Theodore. She finds him in the conservatory looking at the stars. It's an empty look that rules her husband's face. It's a look that she has only seen maybe once when she asked Theodore to describe the mansion to her while they were beginning to see each other. While she gets closer to Theodore, she hears their guest cars leave. She can see the headlights glow from the conservatory. Rose knows she stalling but does she want to hear Theodore confess that Lucille haunts his thoughts to this day. No, she doesn't but Lucille is a subject that's going to have to be talked about some time. Now is good enough for her.
"Theodore, darling, why did you rush out like that?" says Rose Marie.
"It's nothing," says Theodore.
"It's not nothing! If the mere mention of Lucille has you leaving a room as if hellhounds are following you, then there is something wrong!"
Theodore tries to make his way out of the conservatory but Rose Marie blocks the way. Not wanting to get rough with his wife, Theodore makes a noise of frustration. She stares at him and he does the same back. It isn't the loving stares they share any other day; this is about getting answers. And Theodore does not wish to talk about what's been haunting him for years.
"It is not something you need to worry about," Theodore tries to avoid the topic.
"It affects you, so it is something I need to worry about! Teddy, please tell me! I wish to share your burdens not be oblivious of them," Rose Marie ends her plead with watery and concerned eyes.
Taking his wife's hand, Theodore leads them to a pair of chairs in the conservatory, “You’re right. You should know the truth; my marriage to Lucille wasn't a happy one. I didn't know it at the time but Lucille was looking for a husband that could pay for the wealthy lifestyle she was used to. Her parents had, at some point, cut off the allowance she was receiving. She portrayed herself as a mild manner and lovely young woman when I had met her. I and several other men fell for her hard. I think the only reason she chose me was that I tried my hardest in pleasing her every time she asked."
Theodore tightens his hold on Rose Marie's hand. Tears were gathering in his eyes. A few then slowly fall down his face. Rose's free hand gently removes them from his cheeks.
"Take your time Teddy, I'm not going anywhere," she says.
Theodore takes a breath and continues, "Weeks within our marriage she started changing how the mansion looked. Since it was "our home" I didn't have a problem with it. She asked for her own personal rooms and I hadn't a problem with that either. Then she asked me about her friends visiting her while I was away; I hadn't a problem with that either. Then she started telling me what I should wear, and I let her. Then she started telling me that I was gaining weight and that I couldn't accompany her to parties, so I didn't. She then started telling me that I didn't make enough money, so I started taking on more writing jobs. I became a stranger in my own home. One of the few times, I came back home early, a man that I saw Lucille talking to a few times at parties is having sex with her in her dressing room. I was looking for her so that we could have dinner together. After that, I stopped trying to please her and she started having multiple affairs with other men."
Theodore is crying hard at this point and Rose Marie rubs his back telling me to let it all out. She coaxes him to continue crying until he feels better. She rubs circles on his back and gives him kisses. The pain that he's feeling makes her own eyes misty but she powers through so that she can effectively comfort Theodore. He gets his breathing under control, he's breathing in and out louder than what's normal. The positive thing is that he's done crying right now.
"It's okay Teddy, talk about it at your own pace," she says while holding onto him.
"The worst part about it was that I was waiting for her to drop those other men. I still loved her so much! Even though she called the articles I wrote unimportant fluff. Even when she said that I couldn't please her like one of her lovers. Or that Albert was a bad influence on me and that he just wanted to sleep with her. How Theresa is crazy for marrying a man who's a second-generation immigrant. Lastly how it's my fault for not impregnating her yet and that the other wives in our social group were talking about how she failed as a wife because she wasn't pregnant yet," Theodore concludes with his head hanging low.
"Did, did Lucille ever get physical with you?" Rose Marie says as her grip on Theodore tightens with worry.
"No, but she did start breaking anything easy to shatter outside of whatever room I was in when I didn't give Lucille her weekly allowance," Theodore says with his voice sounding empty.
"That's dangerous!"
"That's Lucille," he gave a broken whimper.
"Is there anything else you wish to tell me?" she holds her breath.
"Another time, I'm tired and I wish to go to sleep now," Theodore gets up from the chair he's sitting in.
"I understand. You go ahead and turn in for the night. I'll check on the staff and Teddy," Rose Marie calls gently.
"Hmm"
"I love you,"
"I love you too, my flower," he gives a tired smile.
Theodore leaves the conservatory. When he's gone, Rose Marie leaves too and goes to find Albert. They have a short talk and Albert tells Rose that everything is cleaned up from the Dining Hall. Rose Marie goes to her walk-in closet to change and put on her nightgown. Finishing up with her nightly routine, she enters the bedroom. Slipping into the bed, Rose Marie cuddles up to Theodore and falls asleep.
The next day, Theodore has Peter drive him and Rose Marie to the Hernandez apartment. Judith is at a fellow schoolmate's house today. The Clyde's are greeted at the front of the apartment building. The four take an elevator up to the floor the Hernandez's live on. Theresa leads the way to the apartment. Eddie opens the door lets the other three inside. He follows in after and closes the front door behind him. Theresa then takes Rose Marie and Theodore fully inside the apartment. Taking their visitors to the living room, everyone gets comfortable on the matching couches. Coffee and sugar cookies are sitting on the coffee table. Rose Marie takes a cookie and looks at the other three adults to start talking about their past with Lucille. Eddie takes a long drink from the coffee mug in front of him.
Licking his lips, Eddie begins to speak, "I'll start. During a summer pool party at the Clyde mansion, Lucille cornered me while I was coming back from the cabana. She called me a spicy Latin lover and said that she can "tango" with me better than Theresa. I refused and then at one of the shows I was playing at a couple of guests started calling me Latin lover. I asked them to stop but they told me that I had no trouble passing my "spice" around before tonight. It took the other members of the band to complain enough to get them kicked out of the club."
Eddie is massaging his temples after he finishes his story. Theresa puts down her mug harshly on the coffee table. A tight smile is on her face and Theodore sighs because he knows that once his sister starts, she won't stop. Cracking her knuckles, Theresa straightens her shirt and gets comfortable before her rant.
"Not only did that hussy repeatedly cheated on my little brother, this bitch tries to move onto another woman's man! She got a lot of men's attention because she was beautiful and had pretty strawberry blond hair. She even said Eddie must feel protected because of my "man" shoulders. I knew she was trouble when she befriended those trophy wives. I couldn't stand her and the only reason I didn't throw her out a window is that I'd been thrown in jail. Not that I would have hidden the fact that I did it," says Theresa.
Finishing her second cookie, Rose Marie speaks, "All this time I thought Lucille was this perfect larger-than-life person. I feared that Theodore could only love me less than Lucille. But hearing all this, knowing who she truly was, I'm glad I've never met her."
"You're really lucky, Rose Marie," Theresa says with a twisted grin.
"Theresa!" Theodore tries to shame his sister.
"What it's true!" Theresa simply waves his comment away.
"Thank you for revealing to Rose your experience with Lucille,"
"Did mother know about Lucille's true nature?" asks Rose Marie.
"She might have noticed something was off but I never told her," Theodore looks into his mug that's empty.
The four adults finished the last of the cookies and have a second cup of coffee. Now that Rose Marie knows almost everything about Theodore's biggest secret, they leave the Hernandez apartment to go home. The drive home is quiet and Rose takes one of Theodore's hands into both of her hands and squeezes it to comfort him. She became a greater part of the Clyde family than she thought possible. This makes Rose Marie feel unbearably happy. In the final hours of the day, Rose Marie and Theodore spend together. The see-through wall between them is gone now. Now that it's night and they are both ready for bed, Rose Marie has the courage to mention an idea she had for some time.
"Teddy, I, I think for you to fully get over your trauma, Lucille's personal rooms should be redecorated. As long as her rooms remain untouched, she'll always be a part of our relationship," says Rose Marie.
Theodore sits on the side of the bed. He thinks about the possibility of being free of Lucille. The parts of the mansion that had her touch have already been erased. She has no power over him now. It's time for him to feel fully at home.
"You're right, flower; it's time for a change. We'll have to decide how those rooms look at a later date. Because I want to savor my time with my wife now," says Theodore.
They fall asleep not long after they express their adoration for each other. It's the afternoon and Albert directs a call to Theodore who is in his study.
Picking up the phone Theodore answers, "Hello, this is Theodore Clyde."
"Mother? No, you're not calling at a bad time..."
"...I'm well, and you..."
"...That's good, have you called Theresa..."
"...I see. I'm guessing you're calling because you wanted to ask me something..."
"...Costume party? It's been a while since a party like that happen in the mansion..."
"...I'll bring it up to Rose Marie..."
"...I'll send your love to her. I love you, mother. Goodbye," says Theodore.
He hangs up the phone and goes to find his wife in her parlor. Soft music is playing inside the room as Theodore enters. He sees Rose Marie drinking a cup of peach tea which scent fills the parlor with peach trees. Fresh cinnamon is the second scent that Theodore smells and a quick look at the table in front of Rose Marie is where and he finds pastries next to a teapot. His wife's craving for sweets is something he might have to help her curb.
"Rose, mother just called and she wanted to know if you're okay with having a costume party here?" Theodore joins his wife at the table.
"It's been a couple of weeks since we've thrown a party. Is there a reason mother wanted to throw this party?" says Rose Marie.
"During this time of year, the master and mistress of the Clyde mansion host a costume party. The last few years Eddie and Theresa have been organizing the party for me," says Theodore.
"Then let’s throw one! I've only been invited to maybe four costume parties."
Theodore smiles at his wife as she talks about the different decorations that should be around the mansion. He leans forward to give her a kiss on the lips. Rose Marie lightly blushes and kisses Theodore. Their kisses are quick and multiple.
"The costume party is usually hosted in the Autumn Ballroom, are you alright with that?" says Theodore.
"Of course; I am Mrs. Clyde," reminded Rose Marie smartly.
He smiles loving at her, "Yes you are."
They talk about the party some more and Theodore carefully warns Rose Marie about overindulging in sweets. She becomes slightly embarrassed but thanks her husband for bringing up her increased craving for sweets. He leaves Rose Marie's parlor and goes to his drawing-room. Now inside, he sits at the desk and pulls out a pen, envelope, and paper. He writes to his mother telling her that there will be a costume party hosted by him and his wife. Theodore makes sure to write down the basic things a person usually writes their mother. Finishing the letter, Theodore calls Albert to his drawing-room. Within five minutes Albert knocks on the door. Telling him to enter, Theodore turns part of his body to Albert.
"Please mail this letter for me," instructs Theodore.
"Alright, is there anything else you want to tell me?" questions Albert.
"Yes, please tell the other staff members we'll be hosting a costume party this year," says Theodore.
Albert nods his head in understanding and leaves the room. He first makes sure to mail Theodore's letter and returns it to the staff rooms. Rounding up everyone that is there, Albert tells them the news. With that said everyone went back to what they were doing with only one person withdrawing from the staff courters.
Taking the advice Theodore suggested to her, Rose changes in her dressing room to put on clothes that are easier to work out in. She's in Theodore's personal gym for a little over an hour. She then goes to shower in the gym's private shower room. Refreshed, Rose Marie is wrapped in a robe and walks to her personal closet to put on clean clothes. With her business done there, she puts on her makeup in her powder room. Hearing a knock on her powder room door, Rose Marie tells the person to enter. Having permission the person enters.
"I heard from Albert that Mr. Clyde and you are going to host the annual costume party," says Edith Jones.
"That's right, Mother was the one to bring it up when she called Theodore," says Rose Marie.
Edith Jones watches as Rose Marie wraps up in completing her makeup. Rose can see the older woman standing by the door, unmoving. She keeps the dread within her from showing on her face because she knows that Miss Jones will make fun of her for it.
"Is that all you had to tell me?" says Rose Marie.
"What do you think about the painting with the woman in a beautiful red dress?" says Edith Jones.
"She's beautiful and that dress is lovely as well,"
"You should dress up like her for the costume party. The red color will look lovely on your skin,"
"Thank you, Miss Jones, I'll think about your idea. Is that all?"
"Yes, and do really think about it. Mr. Clyde will be speechless if choose that to be your costume," says Miss Jones.
Edith Jones departs from the powder room and returns to the staff courters. Rose Marie thinks about the suggestion and she's wary of taking Miss Jones's advice. She hasn't acted nicely to her these past months, why would she do something from the kindness of her heart now. Cleaning up the expensive makeup on the vanity, she raises from her plush vanity chair. The soft pastel color of the room conflicts with Rose Marie's emotions. She wants to honestly believe that Miss Jones wants to befriend her. She'll have to talk with Theresa to confirm if this is a trap set up for her. Standing up, Rose Marie goes to the telephone that is not far from her. She calls the staff room and with two rings Peter picks up.
"Hello, Mrs. Rose Marie. Do you need me to get Bonnie?" says Peter.
"No, I was calling to get you. May you please take me to the Hernandez apartment? I wish to visit Theresa," says Rose Marie.
"Of course, I'll be taking the red car, is that fine?" says Peter.
"I do feel like being flashy. That will do Peter,"
"I see you upfront, Ma'am,"
Leaving her personal rooms after she got her purse Rose Marie makes her way to the front of the mansion. She comes across Albert as she leaves.
"Albert may you tell Theodore that I'm off to have a quick visit to Theresa's," says Rose Marie.
"I'll do that. Have fun, Mrs. Rose Marie," says Albert.
They both get to their destination and Rose Marie sees the rose-red car running in front of the mansion. Down the steps, she goes and gets into the back seat. Now that she's in the car, Peter drives down the long driveway. The trip takes about a half-hour, now at the upscale apartments, Rose goes into the building. The stylish building is tall and she enters it. Having visited before, the workers give her polite greetings. Entering the escalator, Rose takes it up to the Hernandez floor. Now on the correct floor, she walks across the fine tile as her heels taps as she walks. At the right door, she knocks on it. The door opens and there is the woman Rose Marie has wanted to see after encountering Miss Jones.
"Rose? I didn't know you were coming to visit?" says Theresa.
"Can I come inside first?" Rose Marie stresses.
"Come right in," says Theresa in worry.
Going inside Rose looks around the apartment. The cream, light brown, leaf green are calming to Rose Marie. She knows she’s with someone that she can trust. Theresa leads her to the sitting area and offers Rose Marie some water. Thanking her, Rose hears Theresa in the kitchen getting them both drinks. Reentering the sitting area, Theresa puts the drinks on the coffee table.
"Where's Eddie and Judith?" says Rose Marie.
"They're having a father-daughter picnic. Now tell me what you're really here for because you normally call," says Theresa.
Rose takes a long drink from her water, "Today Miss Jones offered me a token of friendship. She suggested that I dress like the woman in red from the gallery. I didn't want to bring this up to Theodore."
Theresa raises her hand to her face and pinches the bridge of her nose. A huff comes from her mouth as her eyes are scrunched close. The fingers pinching her nose bridge rotates in a circle to massage the area. While she is massaging, her fingers gradually move across her eyebrows. Her hand fully spread, Theresa takes her hand away from her face. She looks at Rose Marie with a tired smile.
"It was a trick wasn't it?" says Rose Marie.
"Lucille dressed as that painting the year she died. I can't believe Miss Jones set you up like that," Theresa says in a low voice.
"May I use your bathroom?"
"Down the hall second door on the left,"
"Thank you,"
Rose follows the directions, Theresa gave her. Theresa hears the sink running for a moment and turns it off soon after it was turned on. Just long enough to wash a person's hands. Rose Marie returns to the sitting room and picks up her purse. She pulls out an orange candy pulls it out of the wrapper. She pops it in her mouth looks tiredly at Theresa.
"I can't thank you enough, Theresa. Next time I visit I'll be sure to call first," says Rose Marie.
Theresa gets up from the couch and hugs her sister-in-law. She then leads Rose to the door.
"It's fine, but I would like you to visit for a happier occasion," says Theresa.
The door is open and Rose Marie leaves the apartment and leaves the same way she came. At the entrance of the building she sees where Peter is parked goes to the car. Peter opens the backseat door for her and then he went to the driver's side to take Rose Marie back to the mansion. They drive is quiet and Peter can tell that Rose Marie isn't in the mood for small talk. Whatever Theresa cleared up for her has made Rose Marie livid. Finally, the car goes up the long driveway that is framed by trees. The front steps of the mansion feel a bit foreign to Rose Marie right now. The car stops and Peter helps Rose Marie out of the car. She tells Peter, "thank you" and goes up the stairs. She hears the car drive to the garage.
Opening the front door of the mansion, Rose Marie enters the mansion and her steps sound like thunder. Bonnie sees Rose Marie coming up the right stairway. Seeing her anger, Bonnie does her best to help cool her down.
"What is bothering you, Mrs. Rose Marie?" Bonnie says in a worried voice.
"Please tell me where Miss Jones is," says Rose Marie with strained agitation.
"I believe she's in the closed-off rooms,"
"I should have guessed she'll be there. Bonnie tell Theodore that I'm back," Rose Marie instructed.
"Are you going to-?"
"Yes," Rose Marie silences Bonnie leaving no room for questions.
Not waiting for Bonnie to do what she asked her, Rose goes back down where she came and crosses the foyer to the left grand staircase. Going up it, she sees the doors leading through Lucille's private rooms. She stands in front of the doors and hesitates. Rose balls up her fist and releases it to open the doors. Babydoll pink and ivory covers everything from the floors to the ceiling. The room looks like a day hasn't gone by since Lucille has been. Going deeper into the closed-off area, the white wood furniture and dust-free mirrors are the only things that are not pink or ivory. There is an unsettling amount of mirrors in Lucille's rooms. Here's Lucille's bedroom. Miss Jones is in there. Rose Marie enters the bedroom with a shallow breath.
Stepping inside she sees there are mirrors on every pink painted wall. There is no way to hide from the mirrors. There's a chandelier hanging from the high ceiling that lights the whole room. The glow from the chandelier gives a picture-like finish to a person's image in the mirrors. Being in Lucille's bedroom unsettles Rose Marie. She hears someone mumbling a quiet voice. Focusing away from the mirrors, Rose sees Miss Jones fixing the clothes in an ivory wardrobe. Walking towards the older woman, Rose Marie continues to watch as Miss Jones fuss over the elegant clothes.
"Miss Jones, I wish to speak with you," says Rose Marie.
Miss Jones doesn't turn around, "I'm fixing the mistress's clothes so you'll have to wait."
"Miss Jones," Rose Marie's voice rises, "I need to talk to you about your behavior towards me."
"Not now, Lucille's clothes need to be in order. A beautiful woman like her must always look her best," she says.
"Miss Jones, Lucille is-"
"No, she isn't! She's just gone on a trip and will be back soon. Mr. Clyde will be done with you before Lucille get back,"
"What are you talking about? Lucille has been dead for three years now,"
"She'll come back! Her things and I are here. I don't understand why Mr. Clyde brought you here since you will have to leave soon. Lucille will need to take back her place. The mansion is in chaos without her,"
"Miss Jones! Stop with this nonsense! Lucille is gone! I know you two were close but harassing me isn't going to bring her back,"
"I know she won't come back! But I can't let an arrogant little girl replace her! We were all doing just fine without you! How could Mr. Clyde do this to Lucille? He must be sick!"
"Why does Lucille matter so much to you?"
"I've never seen myself as beautiful. Despite me being around men less attractive than me; none of them bothered to marry me. While looking for a job, I came across Lucille's family as she needed a personal assistant. Her outer beauty complemented both of our inner beauty. I couldn't help but spoil her. I had to make sure she married the right man and eliminated any foolish child that paled in comparison to her looks. Those silly boys that wanted to have Lucille got spoiled by her attention so naturally, we had to toss them away," Edith Jones continues talking about Lucille.
Rose Marie shifts from one foot to the other. Miss Jones smiles as she goes on and on about Lucille. There are only short breaks that allow Rose Marie to speak up. Rose hesitates before she decides to leave Lucille's rooms. Miss Jones doesn't notice her departure and goes on talking about Lucille.
Now that she's away from the previous mistress rooms, Rose Marie goes to find Theodore. Walking across the foyer to the right side of the mansion, Rose Marie looks at her watch to guess where her husband is at during this time of day.
"He'll be in his study right now and Albert shouldn't be with him," she tells herself.
Entering Theodore's personal rooms, Rose makes her way to his study. The walk is easy as Rose Marie walks through Theodore's rooms with familiarity. It's normal for her to go through these rooms. She's welcome to enter them. Coming upon his study, Rose knocks on the door. Hearing permission to go in, she enters. Theodore is typing away on his typewriter and glances up briefly. A smile comes on his face and Rose Marie walks in front of his desk.
"Hello my flower, you can pull up a chair. I don't mind the company," says Theodore.
"Alright, but I do have something important to tell you and you might want to stop working to pay attention," she says.
Rose gets one of the spare chairs in the room and moves it in front of the desk. Theodore finishes the sentence he was writing and moves the typewriter to the side. He looks at his wife with worry. He can easily tell when she is jittery about something. He stretches his hand out to her and Rose takes it. They smile at each other. Whatever has her nervous will need to be solved; quickly. He doesn't like that mood affecting his wife. He squeezes her hand to encourage Rose Marie to speak about what's bothering her.
"I... I want...I think it's necessary to lay off Miss Jones. She has shown far too much insubordination," says Rose Marie.
"Is there something specific that she has done?" says Theodore.
"She has been difficult with me anytime I've asked for her to do her job. She has only listened to me when you have supported me," she finally looks at him, "Miss Jones suggested that my costume for the upcoming party be the woman in the red dress from the gallery."
Theodore squeezes her hand too tight and eased his grip when he saw Rose Marie flinch from the pressure. He gently rubs her hand in apology for taking his anger out on her. He brings Rose's hand to his mouth to kiss the pain away. She blushes at his actions and smiles at him.
"I think your choice to lay off Miss Jones is sound. You'll notify her tomorrow. I'll write it down myself to make sure she understands," says Theodore.
Rose Marie's eyes are misty, "Thank you, Teddy. I also think it's for the best if we remodel Lucille's personal rooms."
He's quiet after hearing what Rose Marie said. A shiver goes through him. Doing what she suggested would mean fully removing Lucille's presence from the mansion. He'll finally free from her. It'll be only him and Rose Marie in the mansion. He wants that. He really wants that.
"You're right, my flower, it's time to have the mansion totally to ourselves. I'll get Albert to call James Moving Company to remove the heavy furniture from storage so it can be sold. This change should have happened months ago. Do you forgive me for not acting sooner?" says Theodore.
"It's not a problem, Teddy. It's happening now and that's all that matters," says Rose Marie.
The day continues with Theodore getting a hold of Albert to discuss what he wants to be done to Lucille's rooms. He writes the letter to lay off Miss Jones and calls Bonnie to his study for her to give it to his wife. Rose Marie is correcting the essays of the students she tutors for when Bonnie comes into her drawing-room. Rose Marie asks Bonnie to place the letter on the coffee table and Bonnie is dismissed after she does what Rose wanted. Later Rose Marie and Theodore go on a walk through Cynthia's Garden. They eat dinner outside and return indoors when it was utterly dark. They turn in for the evening and have a bath together. They fall asleep in a couple of hours after their bath. The night cool and the sounds that night critters make don't disturb everyone's sleep in the mansion.
It's the following day and everyone is up and full from breakfast. Rose Marie's out working at a non-profit for most of the morning. Theodore is at his editor's to turn in his recent articles and picking up his new stories he's going to cover. They both come back home in the afternoon and have lunch together. Theodore goes to his gym to work out and Rose Marie goes to the staff rooms once they are finished with lunch. She enters the staff receiving room and sees that Albert and Bonnie are already there.
"May one of you get the rest of the staff here I have something I wish to announce," says Rose Marie.
"I will go get them," says Bonnie.
Bonnie leaves the receiving room with only Albert and Rose Marie in the room. They talk about the upcoming costume party as they wait for Bonnie to come back with the other staff members. Albert is bringing up how cotton can be stretched to look like spider webs when the other staff members arrive. Bonnie, Edith, Frank, Hank, Joyce, Lois, Peter, and Smith come into the room. Rose Marie gestures for them to sit in the available seating. She smiles at them and stands up to keep their eyes on her.
"I'm here to announce that the previous mistress's personal rooms are going to be remodeled and redecorated starting tomorrow. I'm telling you all this now because I want all of you to be ready for such a big change," says Rose Marie.
Edith Jones clutches her hand in fury. The last place where she can feel Lucille's presence is going to be gone. Hasn't this girl taken enough from her already? Mr. Clyde couldn't have approved this change. That's right; this outsider is doing whatever she wants without consulting Mr. Clyde. It's up to her to preserve Lucille's legacy.
"Doing such a thing to the mistress's courters is outrageous! I've looked over those rooms since Lucille and I first came here! It's a part of the mansion! You've changed so much of the mansion by now, can't you spare what's left of Lucille?" says Edith.
Rose Marie focuses on Edith, "Miss Jones I want you to meet me in my drawing room in 15 minutes. I have something I need to tell you personally. That is all."
Rose Marie leaves the staff receiving room to go to her drawing-room. She doesn't wait to see if Miss Jones is following her, as she is confident that Albert or Bonnie will get Miss Jones to meet her. Within her personal rooms, Rose Marie goes to her drawing-room. It's a journey that she's made time and time again. Her presence in the mansion becomes more solidified the more Lucille's presence is removed. Rose is becoming less of a stranger to the staff and socialites who live here. She is close to being a regular on the east coast. It's impossible to erase or replace Lucille, but Rose Marie can be the one that is remembered. She's at the door of her drawing-room.
Entering the drawing-room, Rose Marie goes to sit on the couch with a low coffee table in front of it. There the letter from yesterday Teddy wrote for her to give to Miss Jones. With this letter, Rose Marie will be rid of one of the final ties Lucille has over the Clyde mansion. The final steps of change are just before her and Theodore. She hears the door angrily open when there should have been a polite knock, as Edith enters the drawing-room. The older woman's face is flush and she's undoubtedly distress. She walks to where Rose Marie is sitting and her movements remind Rose of a child who is in trouble for purposely breaking things in the house.
"Miss Jones I wanted to tell you that you will no longer be working here in the Clyde mansion. Albert will be giving you your last paycheck today. It will be expected of you to pack up all of your belongings and leave this evening. I wished to do this in private because you were the personal assistant of the last mistress," says Rose Marie.
Shock is the only thing on Edith's face, "You can't...you can't do this to me! Only Mr. Clyde can do this! You're lying, there's no way he would lay me off. I'm one of the few things left of Lucille!"
Taking the letter off the coffee table, Rose Marie hands the letter Theodore wrote to Edith Jones. Edith doesn't take the letter that Rose Marie hands her. It's a fake or Rose Marie forged Mr. Clyde's handwriting. Reading it will only prove that Rose is lying. However, the confidence on Rose's face makes Edith want to prove that she isn't going to fall to her tricks. Edith's hand trembles as she takes the letter. It's folded in half and Edith lifts the top part up. She can't believe it. Mr. Clyde has betrayed Lucille and sided with this stranger! In the end, it is only Edith who fully understands Lucille. Edith leaves the drawing-room. Rose Marie releases a long breath and leans back on the couch. Doing that wasn't easy but it's done and that's the important thing.
The day continues with all of the staff completing their task for the day. Lois serves lunch to the master and mistress of the mansion on the back balcony. When the couple is done eating, they go to the stables and ride two of the horses on the third trail. Theodore and Rose Marie decide to go out to dinner and they both dress for the evening. They're gone until ten in the evening and came back to a quiet mansion. Rose Marie and Theodore do their best to not disturb the silence therein. They change into their sleepwear and do their evening routine before they fall asleep.
It's a new day and the air is somewhat chilly this morning. Rose Marie and Theodore wake up and make breakfast in their family kitchen. They take their pancakes with fruits and bacon to their dining room. They eat their meal in their sleepwear and talk about going to a popular play at the nearby theater. The couple gets ready for the day and leaves their private chambers.
The staff is ready before the master and mistress of the mansion exit their chambers and Albert and Bonnie are waiting for them. Theodore leads the four of them to his study and they discuss the possible changes that could be made from Lucille's rooms.
"You could extend the family and guest rooms," suggest Albert.
"A personal theater could be added to the mansion," says Bonnie.
"Or we can change those rooms for our future children," Theodore looks at his wife.
"It could be a bit before a child or two comes around," Rose Marie smiles at him.
The four continue to bounce ideas off each other when they all hear a knock on Theodore's study door.
"You may enter," says Theodore.
Joyce goes inside the room and says good morning to everyone sitting on the leather couches a few feet away from the desk. Joyce walks closer to the four.
"The movers from James Moving Company are almost here. Hank saw them as came back from getting fresh hay," Joyce explains.
The four starts getting up and Theodore holds out his arm for Rose Marie to hold onto. They all exit the study go to the foyer to greet the movers. They got there as one of the movers knock on the front door. Joyce answers the door and the movers come inside.
Rose Marie steps forward, "I'm glad you're here, please follow me. The rooms you'll be removing furniture from are in the left-wing."
The others in the foyer follow Rose Marie to Lucille's vacant rooms. They all enter the rooms and Joyce takes over for Rose Marie and she points out which furniture Mr. and Mrs. Clyde want to be removed from the mansion. They all came to Lucille's bedroom. Joyce opens the door.
"The bed, vanity, armoire, and AAAAHHH!" Joyce loses balance, and hurriedly backs away from the room.
"Joyce what's wr-" Albert looks on with horror, "I think I'm not going to be eating anything else today."
Bonnie is crying at the sight and Theodore has his arms wrap around Rose Marie. He becomes pale with sickness and has trouble getting words out. Rose Marie has trouble focusing on the body hanging from the room's chandelier. The question arrives on how Miss Jones got such a long sheet to hook onto the chandelier in Rose Marie's mind.
"Get her body down now! Albert gets Hank and Smith and is sure to call any family Miss Jones has. Tell them that she has taken her own life," Theodore orders, and the others get to work.
Theodore waves Bonnie and Joyce over to take Rose Marie out of Lucille's bedroom. Albert does what is asked of him and within minutes Hank and Smith are in Lucille's bedroom. The movers help the two older men in taking down Miss Jones. Once she's down the older men say a silent prayer and leave the bedroom. Frank comes into the bedroom and quietly cries over Miss Jones's body. Bonnie and Joyce manage to calm down Rose Marie enough for her to speak clearly.
"I want a pastor to be brought in so that the rooms can be spiritually cleansed," says Rose Marie.
Knowing that the order was for her, Bonnie leaves to do what is asked. Joyce goes over to Frank and gets him to stand up and leave where Miss Jones's body is lying. Rose Marie can hear Joyce telling Frank that Lois can fix him anything he would like to eat or drink because of what had happened today. The movers start removing the furniture from the other rooms but avoid re-entering the bedroom.
"I'm going to get a shot of whiskey; you what any Rose?" Theodore looks stress.
"I'm fine dear, you go right ahead," she gives him a shaky smile.
Theodore nods his head in understanding and goes to get some alcohol in his system. Rose is thus alone with Edith's body and only the noise of the movers taking away furniture from the mansion. She walks closer to the body and uses her hand and sleeve to cover the lower half of her face. She crouches down near the deceased woman.
With a slight glare on her face, Rose Marie talks to Edith, "You really didn't need to go this far Edith," she pauses and makes sure that no one is close enough to hear her, "I was going to let you keep some of the things Lucille has left here. Well, whatever this was your choice. Just don't curse me while you're in hell."
She rises to stand up and leaves the bedroom to wait in Lucille's receiving room. Once in the receiving room, Rose sits at a well-cared-for table and chair. She's surrounded by Lucille's taste in decorum and it's hard not to feel uncomfortable. She doesn't feel like she is in her own home while she's surrounded by Lucille's things. Rose Marie is soon found by Bonnie, who is carrying a tray with hot tea and slices bread with butter. Bonnie puts the tray on the table and serves it to Rose Marie. Bonnie then sits at the table with Rose. Bonnie's eyes are a little red and Rose Marie is worried about her. She holds out her hand and Bonnie takes it soon after it is offered.
"Will the pastor be here soon?" Bonnie says with a shaky breath.
"They'll be here sometime today I'm sure," Rose Marie gives her a small smile.
"What, what could have made Miss Jones do this? I didn't think she was this unhappy," says Bonnie.
Rose sighs and looks down at her cup of tea, "Promise you won't blame me?"
"Promise,"
"I laid off Miss Jones yesterday. The reason is that she has committed one too many offenses towards me to keep her here,"
"I can understand why you fired her, but to do this because she lost her job seems too extreme,"
"It clearly wasn't for Miss Jones,"
The two women wait in the receiving room for about forty-five minutes when Albert comes through with a pastor following him. He was a middle-aged gentleman with graying hair on top of his head. Hank, Lois, Peter, and Smith come through the rooms with a casket shape box to carry out Edith. Rose Marie hears Albert calling in his co-workers inside Lucille's bedroom. The pastor walks away from the bedroom and nods in acknowledgment to Rose Marie and Bonnie. The five men come out of the bedroom carrying the casket-like box. The movers stop working to let the five men leave easily from Lucille's part of the mansion. Rose Marie squeezes Bonnie's hand stands up. She starts leading the younger woman out of Lucille's personal rooms.
"Bonnie let's stay in my informal sitting room for now," Rose Marie looks to the movers, "I must thank all of you for handling this shocking surprise. Please continue to remove all the heavy furniture."
"You were not aware of this either Mrs. Clyde, so there is nothing to worry about," a mover answers Rose, "Come on fellas we got to get back to work."
Bonnie and Rose Marie get out of the way of the movers and make their way to Rose Marie's part of the mansion. When they get there Bonnie collapses into one of the lounge chairs in Rose's informal sitting room. Rose Marie herself composedly sits on the love seat near Bonnie. They both look tired and don't say anything. It's quiet in the room with only the two of them breathing. Rose thinks about saying something, opens her mouth, and looks at Bonnie. Bonnie has her hands over her face and is hiccupping to hold back tears. Seeing the state she's in Rose Marie closes her mouth again and leans back in her seat. She sighs heavily and runs a hand through her curls. Today has been too much for all of them. After two hours of silence, Rose Marie looks at Bonnie once more to talk to her.
"Bonnie, could you please get your co-workers and bring them here to me?" her voice is strong and it gets Bonnie to snap back from her depression.
"Of course, Mrs. Rose Marie, I apologize for my behavior," Bonnie stands up, tilting her head to physically show how sorry she is.
"Don't worry about it. It would have been more concerning if you weren't affected," Rose Marie answers back.
Bonnie exits the informal sitting room leaving Rose Marie the only woman in the room. She breaths deeply in and out to calm herself. She feels drained from this experience. The only positive outcome from Edith's suicide is that Frank is the only definite worker left in the mansion. The thought that Lucille meant enough for Edith to take her life after departing from the mansion is scary. Lucille certainly has a hold on you even in death. A knock pulls Rose from her thoughts of Lucille.
"You may enter," she says.
The door opens and Bonnie walks in with the other staff members. They all have varying degrees of fatigued visible on their faces. Rose Marie gives them a smile that agrees with their feelings. Everyone is having trouble with what has happened.
"Will you all take the mirrors and portraits down in Lucille's rooms and wrap them in whatever extra wrapping paper from the gift-wrapping room. When that's done, you all may take the rest of the day off. Don't worry about me and Theodore," she finally looks directly at them, "You're dismissed."
Everyone who entered the room nods their head in understanding. Frank looks the most worn out of them all, and Rose Marie is shocked he doesn't give her lip because of her order. The staff leaves the informal sitting room with Bonnie going out last. She gives one last look at Rose Marie and closes the door. She hears their steps quietly moving away from where she is. It seems like no one is going to be sleeping well tonight.
After sitting in the same spot for what feels like too long, Rose Marie gets up. She looks at the clock and notes that it's after 12. She needs to talk to Theodore about what to do about Edith's body. She can't regret what has happened between the two of them. Rose Marie leaves the room and walks to the bar that's at the front of the mansion. It seems like everybody in the mansion is choosing to stay out of sight. This must be how the mansion was after Lucille's death. Walking through the mansion like this reminds Rose Marie of her first days here. She feels like she's trespassing in another woman's home. The atmosphere makes Rose think about Edith. Edith's actions have reminded everyone of Lucille; too bad she can't relish in it. Nearing the bar, Rose Marie starts to hear jazz music. It sounds to be a popular artist but it is too soft for her to hear. The closer she gets to the bar the louder the jazz music becomes. The song isn't a happy one and she fears that when she finds Theodore, he'll be drunk. She pauses at the door. Rose takes a deep breath in and releases it. Opening the door the smell of wood and alcohol hits her nose. Looking around the room she sees that Theodore is at the bar counter. She steps inside and closes the door before walking to the bar counter. Pulling out a seat, she sits on it and puts a hand on Theodore's shoulder. Only one glass was empty on the counter and Theodore is looking at his hands.
In a small voice, she starts talking to him, "Teddy? I know who's known Edith since you have started courting Lucille, but this wasn't your fault. If you wish to shift the blame, I'm willing to carry that burden. I was the one that wished to fire her."
"It wasn't yours either, my flower. Edith chose how she wanted to react to being laid off. You had nothing to do with it," he says without slurred words.
"What should we do about Edith? Does she even have family that we can contact?" Rose turns herself more towards Theodore.
He runs his hand through his hair and sits up straighter, "Edith lost contact with her family a long time ago. It's probably best if we just give her a small funeral at a local graveyard."
"I see. I can get Albert on that soon,"
"No, I'll do it myself,"
"Do you wish to be alone again?"
"Yes, thank you, Rose Marie. This hasn't been easy,"
"It's okay. Don't forget to eat something. I'll leave you alone now," She gets out of the chair and exits the bar room.
Edith's funeral merely had her co-workers and Mr. and Mrs. Clyde. The early morning fog isolated the funeral-goers from the rest of the city. The pastor that blessed Lucille's bedroom says the obituary. Frank lays a bouquet of lilies on Edith's grave. The brief ceremony ends and everyone but Frank leaves. He doesn't return until late into the night. He stinks of heavy alcohol but no one in the staff rooms comments on it. Three days later the decorations for the costume party come in and everyone still left in the mansion starts preparing. The theme for the costume party is gothic literature. Black, red wine, and tea-stained colors are used to give the Winter Ballroom the feeling of being inside an old book. Rose Marie is pleased with how the ballroom is looking and she's ready to impress the guest who'll be coming.
On the glittering night of the party, Theodore and Rose Marie greet their guest as a vampire and witch. The all-black tuxedo with a cape and fangs made Theodore, in Rose Marie's eyes, a charming and dangerous man that she has no problem being bitten by. Theodore himself couldn't help himself with having an arm wrap around his wife. The black glitter mermaid dress with tier sleeves has various guests take a third look at her. The brim of the pointed witch hat has curves over a side of her face adding a sense of mystery to Rose Marie's costume. The host and hostess made sure to dazzle their party guests with their children and magazine journalists with photographers. This is the biggest party in the Clyde mansion since Lucille's death. Duke Ellington orchestra is performing and guests are dancing. The energy of the party electrifying as all the people here are happy. The kids are playing with each other with their parents not far from them.
Suddenly Rose Marie feels a small body holding onto her waist. Twisting the upper part of her body she sees Judith clinging to her. The two laugh and Rose wiggles around to properly hug her niece.
"I can't believe you've attacked your aunt, Judith!" Theodore says with a small lisp.
"I'm a black cat! Whenever I see a witch I have to befriend them," Judith lets go of Rose Marie to hug Theodore.
"Where's your parents?" Rose Marie looks about, "Did you dash off without them?"
"There you are, Judith!" Eddie lightly scolds his daughter, "Your mother and I were going to start looking in high places to find you."
Eddie, Theresa, and Cynthia walk closer to the other three. Rose and Theodore observe the costumes they are wearing. Theresa is dressed in all white with pale makeup and powder hair. Eddie is a detective with a tan trench coat, a fedora, and a flask sticking out of his pocket. Cynthia seems to be dress as a Greek woman.
"Mother are you are wearing a costume?" asks Rose Marie.
"I'm an opera critic," she says.
"You really didn't like what was said about your favorite opera did you?" says Theodore with a knowing smile.
"Don't sass me, son," the look on Cynthia’s face makes Theodore turns his head to avoid his mother's glare.
Rose Marie nudges his shoulder and Theodore smiles at her. Holding out his hand she takes it and leads her to the dancing bodies near the musicians. They dance to the new song with Eddie and Judith dancing near them. Hours pass with snacks and alcohol-free drinks consume by everyone. Rose Marie slits from Theodore to talk to some of the other women at the party. Theodore walks around the Winter Ballroom talking to anyone who wishes to engage him in conversation. After finishing talking to a journalist, he takes a breather to look around to see if there isn't a guest being unreasonable. Seeing nothing wrong, Theodore gains a satisfied look on his face. The news following this party will be talked about for days after. A photographer walks up to him to take his picture.
"Smile a bit larger, Mr. Clyde, to show off those fangs!" says the photographer.
Theodore does so and the bright flash goes off. The photographer smiles at Theodore's willingness to have his picture taken.
"Thank you for letting me take your picture while you're in costume, Mr. Clyde," the photographer says in rushed excitement.
Theodore holds out his hand to shake their hand, "Not at all thank you for covering the party."
The party lasts until the early morning of the next day. Any guests with children left earlier but most of the adults stayed until the end. Theodore and Rose Marie help the straggles leave the mansion and once everyone is gone they lean on each other because of exhaustion. After a minute or so the couple slowly walks to their bedroom. The noise in the Winter Ballroom lets them know that Albert and Bonnie are making sure everything is cleaned up. Finally reaching their room they both get ready for bed. Rose feels fatigued with every movement she makes. Finally ready for bed she climbs in on her preferred sleeping side. Theodore enters the bed after her and recognizes that Rose is fast asleep. A smile comes to his face and he kisses her shoulder while holding Rose close to him.
Over the next few days, Theodore's prediction about the buzz following the party holds the attention of the public. Several people called to either invite the Clyde's to an upcoming event or questioning when the next party they'll be hosting will be. Rose Marie has a smug look as some of the women who she didn't hit it off with calling her to ask about spending time together. The number of afternoon coffee meet-ups Rose has been welcomed to has left more caffeine in her system than she's used to. The students she's been tutoring have greatly improved when she first started working with them. Life, as it is now, is perfect with how it is going.
Theodore and Rose Marie are eating in the breakfast room in Rose's part of the mansion. They're both in their nightclothes talking about going on a date since it's the weekend and either of them has another arrangement. They're discussing where they should go when Albert enters the room while he's breathing hard. The couple looks at him with concern and sees that he has a newspaper clutched in his hand.
"Albert, what's in the news that has you looking like that?" Theodore says worriedly.
"Please take a seat," Rose Marie says in concern.
Albert sits across from them. The distressed look does not leave his face. He lays the newspaper on the table. He gathers himself and looks at the master and mistress of the mansion. What he's going to tell them will leave the mansion in unease for however long the situation lasts.
"A sunken boat was found today because of the tide. A woman was found dead, in the said boat. The police had revealed that they believe the woman inside the boat is the late mistress despite you identifying her body three years ago. Reporters are calling the story, The Return of the Lucille Clyde: The Original Mistress of Clyde Mansion. There's already gossip of why you didn't realize the first woman you identify as Lucille wasn't her. I would not be surprised if investigators come by soon," Albert finishes.
The three are quiet. Albert gives Theodore a distressed smile and leaves the room. The newspaper stays on the table and Rose Marie brings it closer to herself to fully read what it says. Every few words she checks on Theodore and pain goes through her heart each time she looks at him. The look of anguish on his face is something that will haunt her dreams. Theodore holds out his hand as a few tears fall down his face. She quickly takes it. They'll figure out what they're going to about Lucille's return. The newspaper title is spot on; Lucille is back, much to the misery of Theodore and her.
