Chapter Text
I let out a sigh as I left the parlor. Today I was supposed to have been going golfing with my father, however, when I brought it up over breakfast, he said that he had an important meeting to attend. So instead I had spent the entire day practicing proper etiquette with my mother. She had spent the entire time nitpicking every slight flaw or mistake I made. If I dared to protest or complain, she scolded me, saying that these were skills I needed if I wanted to find a good husband.
Ever since Daisy Fay had gotten engaged to the Buchanan heir, my mother and father had begun pestering me about potential suitors. They did not understand that I possibly could aspire to be more than a trophy wife, to have my own life and livelihood. It was incredibly frustrating.
I walked briskly down the corridor towards the entryway, desperate to get some fresh air and leave the suffocating presence of my mother behind. I stepped outside onto the soft greenery and breathed in the sharp scent of freshly mowed grass. I continued and began to walk aimlessly, taking in the sight of the sky painted in soft oranges and pinks by the setting sun.
I began my way back home when the pink in the sky gave way to darkening purples and blues, and the cicadas began their shrill song. I stopped briefly in front of Fey’s estate, the golden light on the trees lining a path making it appear as if autumn had come early.
When I arrived back at my home, the trees had begun to cast dark shadows, leaving dark streaks overlaying the house. As I made my way to the door, I noticed a man wearing a postal uniform making his way toward me.
“Ms. Baker! Just the young lady I was looking for, I've a letter for you, from a beau of yours?” the man grinned, mirth in his voice.
“Ah, no” I replied, quickly tacking on my thanks. Before he could respond, I swiftly made my way inside.
“Jordan!” my mother's shrill voice pierced my ears as I closed the front door. It seems that the rest of my evening would not follow the trend of my tranquil walk. Following the sound of her voice, I made my way to the dreaded parlor room.
“Yes?” I replied, before noticing my father was there as well. I straightened my back, this was the first I’d seen him since the morning. Perhaps he’d come to apologize for missing our bi-monthly golfing trip, and a promise to go the next day.
“Sit down Jordan, we have much to discuss,” my father said. After I was seated in the armchair across from the loveseat my parents shared he continued.
“Your 17th birthday is coming up, which means that the time for your debut is as well” he took in a breath before glancing over toward my mother, he continued
“As such, your mother and I have decided to put any golfing trips on hold until you are able to properly represent yourself in polite society”
“Your etiquette is far behind what is expected of a girl your age and standing. You should not be wasting your time with such unnecessary activities” My mother interrupted,
“I-, but” I sputtered out a reply, this was the opposite of what I had been expecting and hoping for. I looked towards my parent's faces looking for any sympathy, any chance they might be willing to compromise. Instead, I found firm resolve.
I composed myself, not wanting to give my mother any more ammunition.
“I understand, I will do my best to meet your expectations,” I said, my mother smiled, satisfied with her attempt to tame me.
“Goodnight mother, father” I stated and left the parlor before they could see the frustrated tears gathering in the corners of my eyes.
I angrily swiped the tears from my eyes, walking as fast as I could to my room.
I closed the door and let out a sigh, quickly discarding my day clothes for soft cotton pajamas. I sat down on the soft quilt covering my bed and leaned backward until my back and head hit the mattress. Searching for a distraction from the frustration and disappointment, I sat up and glanced at the pile of discarded clothes. Begrudgingly I got up and grabbed the unopened letter quickly sitting back down on the soft bed. Breaking open the wax seal, I opened the letter. I folded open the thick cream paper and began to read.
Ms. Jordan Baker,
It has come to my attention that you are nearing your debut, and have begun receiving offers from potential suitors. I am under the impression that you are uninterested in the lifestyle that is expected of you. I have a deal for you that will guarantee your independence and financial security. If you are interested, please meet me at the Pearl Speakeasy tomorrow night at 10 o'clock p.m. I believe we may be of help to one another.
Sincerely.
Meyer Wolfsheim