The morning bright with beautiful songs,
Vanya woke up before everyone else, her excitement palpable. She rushed to wash herself and prepare for the day, her heart racing with anticipation. As she entered the dining hall, Theresa looked up, surprised. "Good morning, little rose. You're up early today I see ."
Vanya grinned, her eyes sparkling. "I couldn't sleep, Aunty Theresa. I'm so excited for the market."
Theresa smiled, her eyes warm with affection. "I'm glad you're excited, dear. We'll have a lovely time, I'm sure."
They had a simple breakfast, and Mr. Jones prepared the carriage for them. Joseph was to take them to the market, and Vanya couldn't wait to get started.
As they rode to the market, Vanya chattered excitedly about all the things she wanted to see and do. Theresa listened patiently, smiling at her enthusiasm. Paddy and Mrs. Rue sat quietly, enjoying the scenery.
When they arrived at the market, Vanya's eyes widened in wonder. There were stalls selling everything from the freshest produce to the most exquisite crafts. Vanya ran from stall to stall, marveling at the sights and sounds.
As the carriage ride to the market came to a stop, Vanya's excitement reached its peak. She practically bounced out of the carriage, her eyes scanning the bustling stalls. Theresa chuckled and took her hand, leading her through the crowds.
"Let's start with some fresh produce, shall we?" Theresa suggested, nodding towards a stall piled high with colorful fruits and vegetables.
Vanya's eyes widened as she sampled some juicy strawberries and admired the vibrant flowers on display. As they walked through the market, they came across a butcher's stall, and Vanya's face scrunched up in distaste. "Aunty Theresa, what's that smell?" she asked, covering her nose.
Theresa smiled patiently. "That's the smell of fresh meat, dear. It's not for everyone."
Vanya shook her head. "I don't like it. Can we go somewhere else?"
Theresa nodded, leaving Mrs.Rue and Paddy at the meat stall.
They continued their stroll through the market. At the jewelry shop, Vanya's eyes sparkled as she browsed through the sparkling trinkets. She picked out a beautiful necklace and a pair of earrings, and also selected some gifts for Paddy, Mrs. Rue, and Theresa.
As they were admiring the jewelry, Lady Catherine and her daughter Evelyn approached them. Lady Catherine's expression was haughty, and Evelyn's face was pinched with disdain.
"Well, well, well. Look what we have here," Lady Catherine said, her voice dripping with condescension. "The orphan girl and her caretaker. How quaint."
Theresa's expression remained calm, but Vanya's eyes flashed with anger. "Good day, Lady Catherine," Theresa said politely. "We're just browsing the market."
Lady Catherine snorted. "I'm sure you are. Though I doubt you're familiar with the finer things in life. You're probably more accustomed to scrounging through the streets for scraps, I didn't think it has gotten down to baseless cheap things ."
Evelyn chimed in, her voice equally condescending. "Yes, it's almost laughable to see you trying to fit in with the upper class while grossing deep in inferior quality . You're just a charity case, after all."
Vanya's face reddened with anger, but she stood tall. "I think we're doing just fine, thank you for your outmost concern," she said sarcastically , her voice steady. "And we're not trying to fit in with anyone. We're happy being ourselves."
Lady Catherine's face turned red with rage, and Evelyn's eyes narrowed. "You think you're so clever, don't you?" Lady Catherine spat. "But you're just a nobody. A poor, uneducated orphan. You'll never be anything more than that."
Theresa intervened before things escalated further. "Let's go, Vanya. We don't want to be late for our next appointment."
As they left the jewelry shop, Vanya felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. She had stood up for herself, and she knew that Theresa was proud of her. Vanya as much as I was pleased with you standing up for yourself never forget that a lady must be cool, not exchanging words or show their emotions in whatever because it only gives advantage to the other.
Yes Aunty but how are people so rude, Theresa replied.
It's just some human nature dont think much of it. Now we should I sit the bookstore Theresa chimed.
On their way to the bookstore, they walked past a small library. Vanya's eyes lit up, and she tugged on Theresa's hand. "Aunty Theresa, look! A library!"
Theresa smiled. "Let's go in and say hello to the librarian. I'm sure he'd be happy to meet you."
Inside the library, they met an old librarian who greeted them warmly. "Welcome to our humble library! I'm Mr. Jenkins. What brings you here today?"
Vanya's eyes widened as she scanned the shelves. "I love books! Do you have any books on history or adventure?"
Mr. Jenkins smiled. "Ah, a young reader! We have a whole section dedicated to those genres. Let me show you."
As Mr. Jenkins led them to the shelves, Vanya's eyes sparkled with excitement. She browsed through the books, pulling out several that caught her eye. Mr. Jenkins nodded approvingly. "Excellent choices! I think you'll enjoy those and I must show you this best selling for the noble young chics The lord Queen."
Theresa smiled, happy to see Vanya so engaged. "We'll take these, Mr. Jenkins. Thank you for your help."
As they left the library, Vanya turned to Theresa with a smile. "Thank you, Aunty Theresa. I love books, and I'm so grateful for this experience."
Theresa smiled back, her eyes warm with affection. "I'm glad you're enjoying yourself, dear. You're learning and growing every day."
And with that, they continued their day, Vanya's heart full of joy and her mind full of wonder. They visited allot of stalls and caught up with Mrs.Rue and Paddy and finally got back to their carriage.
As they rode back to the manor, Vanya leaned her head against Theresa's shoulder, feeling sleepy and content. Theresa stroked her hair, smiling down at her.
"I'm glad you had a good time, little rose," she said softly. "You deserve it."
Vanya smiled, feeling happy and loved. She knew that she was exactly where she belonged, surrounded by people who cared about her. And as she drifted off to sleep, she felt grateful for this wonderful day, and for the people who made it so special.