Chapter 77：Mary looked at the clock

―That's good news. Mary handed her the hat she was wearing. After Jessica put their hats away, they went into the kitchen. She noticed that it was only Constance and Jim in the kitchen. ―Constance, are you cooking?

―I thought I would give it a try, she said. ―Good afternoon, Mrs. Monroe, Miss Duff.―Where are Geoffrey and Louis?

―They're at the grocery store picking out the menu for Wednesday evening.―Isn't that the night when Mr. Jonathan Monroe is due to give the presentation for the annual proposal? Mary asked. ―It is. Mr. Monroe writes it and his uncle presents it, Constance responded.

―Thank goodness it only happens once a year. It's a stressful time for the chefs to prepare meals catered specifically for each client's taste buds.―They don't eat the same thing? Jessica wondered.

―Some clients are pickier than others, so Louis has to make separate dishes for about a fourth of the clients.―Would Mr. Tyndall be on that list? Mary inquired.

―Yes. He has to have his steak medium rare, and if it's cooked too much, he makes Louis and the chefs Louis hires for that night miserable. I won't even discuss what happened three years ago. Turning her attention to Jim, Jessica asked, ―What type of pizza are you making today?

―I'm helping Constance make the vegetable one, he replied. ―Jim only uses the freshest ingredients in his pizzas, she told Mary. ―He has a real heart for people. He wants only the best for them. Such a man would make a good husband.―That's nice, Mary uneasily stated.

―So, anyway, I believe that besides cooking, Jim also likes riding horses. He worked at a ranch before he came here. He has a great sense of humor and tells some good jokes. Jim, why don't you share one of your jokes with us?―Um, Jessica, Mary spoke up.

―May I speak to you in the parlor? Surprised, Jessica nodded and followed her friend to her parlor. ―What is it?―I thought you knew that I have become fond of Jonathan.―You are fond of Leo's uncle?―Yes. She shrugged.

―I got a chance to talk to him that day we were at the restaurant with the billiards room. He's quite handsome and fun.―Why didn't you tell me?―I wanted to wait and see if anything came of it first. I suspect he's going to ask me if he can court me, but until he does, I can't be certain.

―Wow. Where have I been for the past week? Mary smiled. ―Leo occupied your thoughts more than you let on. Apparently. Jessica returned her friend's smile. ―Then you might get married?―I'm still waiting for the courtship first.