An Invitation to Tea

[Naia Shahrizai]

I pondered for days about having Sarielle over for tea, but I wanted her to meet Jace and I wanted us not to be fighting. I was so done with it all, and I had the feeling that without Gadleon or Kendrick between us we might be able to make peace.

Finally, I decided to send her a letter, because what could it hurt, truly?

Dear Sarielle,

I know when we last saw each other that once again we did not part on good terms. But we're sisters, and I miss you. Please come to tea tomorrow and perhaps we can talk and you can meet your nephew, Jace.

Sincerely,

Naia

It was short and to the point, but I felt that was best under the circumstances.

[Sarielle Shahrizai]

A missive had come by messenger and I was practicing my dance steps in the sitting room, watching myself twirl in the mirror in a short gown that showed off my bare legs. There came a knock at the door, which I ran to answer, feeling full of energy and excited. I was engaged afterall, and I still felt elated at the thought. I answered the door to find a young boy with hair the colour of wheat and freckles that spanned over his nose and under his eyes. He looked me up and down, swallowed noticeably and hand me the sealed envelope. Without looking at the seal I opened it. It was from Naia, inviting me to her home for tea. It still urked me slightly that she was in teh West Borough, but I was happy for her, regardless. Her words were not excessive, and I beckoned the boy in with a wave of my hand as I ran off to pen a quick response.


Dear Naia and Baby Jace,

I would be happy to come see you both for tea on the morrow. I will be there.

Sarielle


It was as simple as hers had been, no barbed words, no hidden meanings. I blew on the ink to make it dry quicker before sealing it and running back to the foyer where the boy stood, handing the missive to him.

"Bring it back to her," I said simply, handing him a gold ducat for his troubles. He grinned widely, nodding, and made on his way. With a smile I headed to my room. I would need to go out and find a suitable present for both of them.