I was welcomed to the evening with the chilling smoky air provided by the chimneys of London combined with the savory fragrances that rose from downstairs. I poked my nose from underneath the covers only to have Jack Frost nibble at it reminding me that he was coming early this fall. The pink clouds were beginning to dimmer which then prompted me to light a candle or two to provide ample lighting so I could change out of my sleeping gown and into my work cloths.
I didn't usually sleep in this long before heading out into the labyrinth of London's streets to do my work. I slipped on my dress and a jacket, and then proceeded to lace my boots. I made my way down the creaking steps into the kitchen where I was greeted with the brightest and warmest of smiles from my husband. In the 10 years of our marriage, his smiling eyes have never failed to bring a healthy flow of blood to my cheeks. It's as though we were young lovers again, still trying to sputter out the awkward, yet charming confessions of each others love for the first time. "Good evening Abby! I made you some tea to keep you warm while you gather some ingredients for tomorrow's specials." he said as he pushed a steaming mug of Earl Grey towards me. "Thank you Jack!" said I in a flirtatious manner, "What will the customers be licking their lips over tomorrow?" He began to dice some carrots and glanced up at me. "I will be making only two specials: A mincemeat pie, and I am creating a new concoction for a different type of Irish stew. I think we will only be needing one ingredient tonight"
My Husband always truly knew how to create the most astounding culinary creations, and it is thanks to his gifts that we are able to own a very successful restaurant. To newcomers it would appear as a hole in the wall. Very discreet and modest, but we have a very constant flow of customers who we've established wonderful relationships with. We are not wanting for anything, and we live very well within our means. Sometimes we can request help from our regular customers for free ingredients.
Some of our customers are very close and they reveal all their secrets to us. It's quite charming in it's own way, for them to trust us so wholly. In a city like this, there are many secrets that flutter through the air like embers from the London's chimneys. One customer in particular had spectacular relationship with many of the people in our area. She new many of their wants, desires, and deceits. Her name was Mrs. Merryweather. She was an older portly woman who had the kindest demeanor, and the thickest accent. It is only understandable that people would trust her with their private matters. She had the kindest eyes and the rosiest cheeks. Her only flaw was that she would reveal certain secrets that should never be revealed to anyone.
Jack broke my chain of thought by humming the melody of a song we heard in a concert we had the pleasure of going to two months ago. His deep voice combined with the steaming tea began to warm my nose and cheeks that the brisk air had kissed when I woke this evening. "So dearest, what shall we do with Mrs. Merryweather now that she has discovered your secret ingredient?" I asked mischievously. "Well, knowing Mrs. Merryweather, she will reveal my ingredient to the whole block!" said he, with a small twitch of concern in his strong, dark eyes.
I began to slip on my bonnet and apron. "Well my dear, I must unfortunately take my leave. I have to go gather our secret ingredient." I grabbed the butchers knife. "It's unfortunate that Mrs. Merryweather has to go. She did always did have the most delicious dirt on all of our other ingredients. How will be know who deserves to live, and who to die?" said I with a slight frown on my face while I tied my bonnet. "I expect we will manage," replied Jack, as he walked over to me and gave me a reassuring kiss on the forehead. He grabbed my shoulders, looked deep onto my eyes and said, "Stay safe my dearest. There are many dangerous people out there. Not one as dangerous as you though. For too long people have feasted on the secrets Mrs. Merryweather has provided. Now, everyone will have the pleasure of feasting on ours."
The End
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