Genocide

Vera insisted on playing in her new tea-kitchen. She served Darjeeling. I was feeling very wicked and very on form.

'As a tea-snob, I think Darjeeling is an afternoon drink, but you’ve made it for mid-morning. What did they teach you at finishing school, Vera?'

This time she stood up, came round the table and gave me a hug.

'That was brilliant, Millicent!' she squealed. 'Larissa Gormley-Stuart couldn’t have said it better. I’ll make a lady of you yet.'

'Karl Vera. That was beautiful too. I try a put down on you and your class and you counter with a declaration that there is hope for me in the world of snob.'

She stood back a little, still holding me. She stared into my eyes. It was a real moment of friendship and expression that told me I was worthy of being in her confidence. Then she spoiled it.

'Millicent, you are wearing so much make-up today. Why is that? You really do and have such lovely skin.'

I blushed.