(Untitled)

[dracolicious]

In what I feel was a rather slick exchange, I bartered in-house salon services for a number of needy orphans in exchange for a weekend escape in Cannes, complete with complimentary child-minding. What I truly got out of the plan were two extra party guests for Oscar's birthday extravaganza tomorrow, since he obviously hasn't got an endless supply

Comments

[boywholives]

Sickle for your thoughts?

[dracolicious]

My time and thought processes are worth more than that, Potter. Shall I quote you the going rate?

[boywholives]

I'm afraid to ask...

[dracolicious]

It's a good thing I married rich, that's all I've got to say.

[boywholives]

You've been awfully quiet today...

[dracolicious]

I'm resting my voice. Lots of people to scream at this week, I'm afraid.

[boywholives]

Does that mean that you're reconsidering my idea of hiring some proper help?

[dracolicious]

At this point, I'm not convinced that anyone on the planet is competent enough for my needs.

[boywholives]

You're thinking about that Frederic boy, aren't you?

[dracolicious]

No. Maybe.

[boywholives]

He seemed quite sad to see you leave.

[dracolicious]

A fair few of them do, and mostly because they're looking at me with pound signs in their eyes.

[boywholives]

You know, maybe he should come and stay with us for a little while...until we can get someone at Widdleton who can communicate with him. It must be terribly lonely for a boy his age to have no one to talk to. I know we have a full house right now, but...

[dracolicious]

He's been there since May, I doubt a matter of weeks will matter much to him.

I don't want to be seen giving any of them special treatment, Potter, or they'll accuse us of being unfair.

[boywholives]

It would matter. Trust me on that.

[dracolicious]

To him, yes. But the first person to flap their lips to the wrong sort would have an inquiry started sooner than you could say Provence. We've got to be even handed with them, you know that.

At least they seem pleased about their haircuts. Anderson did well, although I think I've given myself competition where the girls are concerned.

[boywholives]

Don't tell me that it hadn't crossed your mind...

[dracolicious]

It doesn't matter. It's entirely inappropriate to bring a select few into our home, even for something like this.

[boywholives]

Well, if you had some professional help in the form of a project manager, you could spare a couple of hours each day with the boy...talking to him and letting him know that he isn't alone.

[dracolicious]

I have been spending time with him, which is why I'll need to spend extra time shouting at the renovation crew first thing on Monday morning. Not that you've noticed, since your eyes are glued to Oscar most of the time.