She was intimidated by Miss Selden, Effie was quite aware of it – but she was also stubborn enough not to show herself to be daunted by her. “Only occasionally,” Effie said, trying to keep her eyes on the fireplace. “But I may have more time to when I’m married.”

Neither of them had alluded to her engagement yet, but Effie half-hated all the veiled comments and observation, hated dancing around things – so there it was. She was going to marry Brooks Watson, and Miss Selden could despise her or pity her or laugh at her as she pleased.

---