Louise

Chapter 7

They continued their walk, their conversation drifting between the potential of Mary finding love and the details of their day-to-day lives. The town square bustled with activity as they approached; vendors hawking their wares, children laughing and playing, and the occasional horse-drawn carriage making its way through the crowd. The bakery was just around the corner, its sweet aroma wafting out onto the street.

From that day on, all Mary talked about was Thomas the paper boy. She had fallen helplessly in love with him. She would blush every time she saw him, and her heart would race. Though they had barely exchanged more than a few polite words, Mary spent her days fantasizing about Thomas and what their life could be like together.

She started sneaking out of the boarding school in the early mornings before lessons, hoping to catch a glimpse of Thomas making his paper deliveries. Her heart would race when she saw him cycling down the street, tossing papers onto doorsteps with practiced aim. She took care to stay hidden, not wanting to draw attention or cause a scandal.

Louise was the only one who knew about Mary's growing infatuation. Though initially surprised that her friend had developed feelings for a common paper boy, Louise was happy to see Mary so smitten. The two girls would stay up late whispering and giggling as Mary described her brief interactions with Thomas, analysing his every word and gesture for hidden meaning and affection.

"Oh Louise, do you really think he returns my feelings?" Mary asked one night, her eyes shining in the candlelight. "What if he looked at me today because he too harbours romantic feelings for me?"

Louise smiled at her friend. "I cannot say for certain, but he would have to be a fool not to see how wonderful you are, Mary."

This secret affair of the heart continued for over a year. Mary treasured every glance and casual greeting from Thomas, compiling them into a fantasy of romance and marriage in her mind. She was careful to keep her feelings hidden from the other girls at the boarding school but with Louise she was open and effusive.

Now at 17, Mary and Louise had grown even closer over their time together at the boarding school. Louise provided a listening ear and words of encouragement as Mary's infatuation deepened. For her part, Louise was simply happy to see her dearest friend so filled with joy and optimism, even if it was attached to a mere daydream.

One morning, as the two friends were in town running errands, Mary suddenly stopped short on the sidewalk. "It's him!" she gasped, clutching Louise's arm. Sure enough, Thomas was making his way down the street on his bicycle, tossing newspapers as he went.

Before Louise could react, Mary gathered her skirts and hurried across the street. "Thomas!" she called out. "Thomas, wait!"

Thomas braked and looked up in surprise. When he saw Mary waving at him enthusiastically, a smile spread across his face. "Why Miss Mary, what a lovely surprise seeing you here," he said, tipping his hat politely. "What a coincidence running into you!" Mary said breathlessly. "I was just telling my friend Louise how much I enjoy getting the paper from you each morning."

Louise caught up just then, giving Thomas a polite nod. He nodded back respectfully. "Well, I certainly appreciate the business, miss. I hope you and your household find the news and stories informative."

"Oh yes, always!" Mary enthused. She hesitated for a moment, then said softly, "Perhaps we could discuss the happenings of the day together sometime." A blush spread prettily over her cheeks.

Thomas' eyes widened slightly, but then he grinned. "Why, I would be delighted to do so, Miss Mary. Your perspectives are sure to be most insightful."

Mary's face lit up with joy. "Wonderful! I look forward to our conversation."