Page 54 of A Spot of Tea
“I didn’t invite him,” Russell said, walking in with a box in his arms, “because I couldn’t stand to see a rift between you and Reg.”
“One of these days, Russell,” Granny muttered, walking away, “I will get you back for this.”
He turned to look at Mackenzie and Eliza. “Was that a threat?”
Mackenzie nodded. “Just about.”
Starting at ten, Joey flew in planeloads of contractors, Lottie’s veterinarians, and low-level celebrities to the island. Others arrived by private jet, and Russell rode to the airport to pick up truckload after truckload of Hollywood’s elite.
Mackenzie had no preference for what her task was in this tea party and ended up washing the floors twice at Granny’s urging. Eliza prepared the plates of sweets and by noon, the tea shop was full of bodies.
“Is Joey going to be able to join us today?” Mom asked Russell. “Or are you working him to death?”
“He should be able to take a break soon,” Russell said, looking at his watch. “I want to make sure he has some time to enjoy the company.”
He winked at Eliza. She blinked once, then turned and walked into the kitchen.
“Yikes.” Russell winced. “Was it something I said?”
“I’ll talk to her. Don’t worry,” Mackenzie said, pushing the kitchen door open. “What was that about?” she asked.
Eliza didn’t turn around, intently focused on measuring loose tea. “Nothing.”
“Are you too busy to see Joey?”
No response.
“Did something happen between you two?”
“There’s nothing between us,” she said, then quickly spun around. “Why? Did he say something to you?”
Mackenzie shook her head. “I haven’t talked to him.”
“Oh.” She turned back to the tea.
“Eliza. You’re being weird. What happened?”
She shrugged, resuming her apparent vow of silence.
Mackenzie sighed. “I know I’m not always the best person to talk to, but I’m trying to be better. I’m not trying to judge you or tell you what to do.”
“It’s not you,” Eliza said. “I like talking to you.”
“Then talk!”
She wiped her hands on her apron and let out a heavy sigh. “You’re going to have a hard time not judging me.”
“No, please!” Mackenzie put her hands up. “I’m different now. I mean, I’m trying to be different. I want to help. What’s going on?”
Eliza studied her for a moment before motioning for her to come closer. She reached into her pocket and pulled out a small leather tassel.
Mackenzie reached forward. “What is that?”
“It’s a tassel from a cowboy hat.”
She waved it. “Is it yours?”
“No. It’s from the hat the bank robber wore.”
