A Cold Wife, Sweet Husband

Around four that afternoon, Jessica was sorting through her new collection of crystal figurines to put in the display case that had arrived while she was at lunch. She had purchased a swan, a unicorn, a rose, a leaf, and a kitten.

She thought they made a nice start. She decided she would add a new one to her collection every year. Just as she set the kitten next to the unicorn, Constance walked into the parlor.

I thought you might like some of the flowers from the garden, Constance said as she put them in the crystal vase which sat on the table in the middle of the room. The blue carpet you ordered should be arriving tomorrow.

Wonderful! Jessica clapped her hands and ran to the lilacs so she could smell them. Now that the lacy white curtains had replaced the drab and heavy blue ones, the entire room felt brighter and more comfortable.

Thank you, Constance. They're beautiful. The maid examined the room and smiled. I like what you're doing to this place. It's nice to have a woman's touch.

I admit that it is fun to decorate the room. I'm sure Mr. Monroe will let you decorate other rooms. He's so in love with you that he won't deny you anything. She blushed, surprised that she was pleased with the thought. Jim walked into the parlor.

Oh good. You're both here. I just made a cinnamon apple pizza that I hope will make a suitable dessert for my future restaurant. Will you try it and tell me what you think? Of course, Jessica readily agreed. I like to sample anything you make. You have a real talent for this line of work. If only all my future customers will be as kind as you, he replied.

I agree with Mrs. Monroe, Constance began. You do an excellent job. It's too bad Louis doesn't give you a chance to serve one of your pizzas at dinner. I never realized he is opposed to pizzas until we mentioned you making one.

Jessica was glad that Jim could at least make his recipes while Louis was resting before he came to prepare dinner. As she and Constance sat at the breakfast bar in the kitchen, Jim sliced the freshly made dessert pizza.

It smells great, Constance said. How did you come up with the idea to make it an apple cinnamon pizza?I piggybacked the idea when I helped make Louis' pie from last night, he admitted.

I thought that if an apple cinnamon pie could taste that good, then a pizza made from similar ingredients should be a treat too.I notice you aren't making as many mistakes while cooking when he's around, Jessica pointed.

Those index cards are a big help. You were right about hiding them in my apron. It works like a charm. I just wish I didn't feel so clumsy around him. I almost broke the glass pie plate last night. Is that why Louis screamed something about his pie?

He nodded, grimacing at the memory. I still can't believe how red his face got. He needs to relax, Constance commented. I told him that he needs to lighten up. Life is too short to be serious all the time. Sometimes it's just good to have a good laugh and go on with your day.