Charlotte

I got bored at the party. Now and then people would compliment me about my beauty or congratulate me. I was missing when life was simple--when I would only have to dress up for the market. When I only wore a dress and apron. I walked out of the bakery. 

I entered the shop and was greeted by some soldiers who decided to stay a day or two longer. I entered the kitchen and sat on a stool. I took out a few pins from my hair causing it to fall down my back in a half-up, half-down style. I opened the back door and ran. I ran straight into the woods. 

I smiled as little specks of mud got on my shoes and dress. The wind blew through my hair. I made my way to the meadow where it was empty and quiet. It felt good to forget all this drama in my life. I walked more into the meadow. Flowers and overgrown grass brushed along my dress. I plopped on my back, causing my hair to spread out around me. I picked a flower and slowly twisted it in my fingers.

I sat up and began plucking at the flower petals while I hummed to myself. “This is nice,” I mumbled. “No sisters; no boy drama; no redcoats.” I plucked a few more flowers and formed them into the shape of a crown. I plopped it on my head. 

“I should get back to the bakery before someone worries.” I unwillingly stood up and made my way back towards the woods. I ran for part of the way back causing more mud to get on my dress and shoes. I entered the bakery, where I saw Edmund and Rose.

“Charlotte!” Edmund said in surprise.  

“Charlotte, you went to the meadow without me?” Rose complained. 

“Charlotte, you look a mess!” Edmund added 

“Charlotte! You even made a flower crown! Without me!” Rose said still complaining. “Wait till Mother hears about this.” Rose crossed her arms. I rolled my eyes and plopped the flower crown on her head.  

“Now you look as if you’ve been too,” I said as I rustled with her hair. 

“No fair!” 

“I am so confused right now. I thought that women just stayed home all day and cleaned and stuff,” Edmund said staring at the door. Rose and I both looked at him. “Did I say that out loud?!” We both nodded, then giggled.