#dc1920s

“William! Thank the watcher you’re here. I need you to go to Havisham House immediately.”

“What? Why? What’s going on… is grandma okay?”

“They are both fine. It’s not them. Please… just do as I say!”

"MOM! Mom, did you hear?!" William said while running into the living room.

"William, what are doing home so early. I thought you were meant to be at the library with Evelyn!"

"I was! But I ran home as soon as I heard… did you hear about the stock exchange?"

"I did! You need not worry though. I will not affect us…"

"It's not that. Oh my watcher.. so you DON'T know then. It's Haughton… Mom, he lost EVERYTHING!"

December 1929

While the rest of the nation may have been in complete chaos these past couple of months, I must admit that I have had much more lovely things on my mind.

For long I have been infatuated with the most wonderful of girls. Miss Evelyn Burnham. I barely remember a time when my heart did not belong to her.

I know I have gloomy tendencies, but hearing that my beloved is to spend the holidays with her Aunt and Uncle in Roaring Heights, nearly broke my heart.

"You know William… I will be back. It is not the end of the world."

"I know, I know, but it sure will feel like it. Here… this is for you. I wish I could have gotten you a rose, but I'm afraid holly will have to do."

"I will miss you so much Evelyn."

"AsI will miss you. Please do not forget to write"

"I will write you every day!"

"I will look forward to it.  Happy Winterfest William Arlington."

Meanwhile... at Brindlemore County Prison.

Fall, 1925

Since moving to the shore, I have rediscovered my love of reading. Especially on these cold fall evenings. I am pleased that my children have grown so independent that time allows me such leisure. Even little Eleanor needs me less and less.

It was on a such evening one day, after returning from a day's work, that Joe first brought up the subject.

"Hello darling. Another night, another book I see?"

"Hello dear. Yes, I must admit it is. How was your day?"

"It was… interesting. There is a matter I wish to discuss with you."

"St. Simis? Really? I would have imagined there to be a long waiting list… and that it's a little too pricey, but perhaps I am mistaken" Corinne said suspiciously.

"Well, the Arlington name still opens some doors." I said  confidently. Hoping my sister would let the matter go. 

For the time being, it seemed as though she would.