Chapter 9 Guests

• “Yes, quite the epitome of elegance, ma'am,” Gisela hastens to say, and the other servants nod in agreement. “Will your grandparents be joining as well?”
• “No, this dinner was rather abruptly arranged by my mother and mother-in-law; you know how it is. I couldn't say no, and there wasn't time to invite them,' I clarify, feeling their absence keenly. 'We'll host a separate dinner for them at the end of the week. I'd much prefer their company without the added pressure of entertaining others.”
• “I understand. Just let me know what they fancy, and I'll prepare it. Had I been informed earlier, we could have tailored tonight's meal to your parents' liking,” she replies with a tinge of regret. “Not to worry, ma'am. Everything is under control. As you can see, it appears we've prepared everything ourselves; they'll be none the wiser. I believe they've arrived; that sound must be their cars,' she indicates.