Chapter Text
"Dad, Dad, she's here! The carriage has already arrived! "
Violet ran out of the living room. From morning she moved impatiently from window to door and back again. She rearranged her favorite marguerites and roses at least ten times in the vase and checked the festive tea set. Now he could only hear the stamping of her feet on the stairs.
Sidney smiled. He didn't blame her, he didn't try to curb her sweet childish enthusiasm. He was happy when she was happy.
Violet looked very similar to her mother. Blue eyes, blond hair, slim figure. But here all the similarity ended. She lacked Eliza's ostentatious dignity and expression. She was very sociable and loved people in the best sense of the word.
He ruined his daughter's upbringing with his love. At least that's what Eliza said. Sidney, Violet, and her brother Benedict laughed a lot and played silly children's games. They had secret hiding places and liked to sit in the grass and talk.
He completely destroyed Eliza's attempt to raise another contemptuous and boring lady.
As Benedict went to study, the relationship between Sidney and Violet grew even stronger. She transferred her zeal and freshness to him, he was her support and shield against her mother's anger and dissatisfaction. When Violet reached the age of 15, Eliza decided that the girl needed a better education. She called off the governess and convinced Violet that she would meet many interesting people at school with important social contacts. The daughter finally obeyed. She left and formed an inseparable couple with Jodie Clarke from day one.
Sidney often received letters in which his daughter described Jodie's great character traits and common adventures. He hoped she would not be ruled out because of bad behavior. Fortunately, the teachers were obviously deaf and blind. When Violet asked him if Jodie could visit her at their country house, he carefully agreed.
Sidney rose slowly from his chair, adjusted his clothes, and waited for the young ladies to arrive. He heard their excited conversation and laughter. He folded his arms behind his back and cleared his throat.
Violet entered first. "Dad, I want to introduce you to my dearest friend, Miss Clarke."
Sidney bowed slightly and looked up at her. He blinked in surprise and turned pale.
"Good morning, Mr. Parker, nice to meet you." The girl smiled brightly at him and showed off her perfect curtsy.