She wanted to snap at him. Instead, she merely gritted her teeth as he tapped the tray with his fork. Her hands were folded in her lap and the lines across her buttocks and back screamed for attention she didn’t want to give them. They were burning reminders of a truth she had long since tried to convince herself was false. Yet, this particular morning, Elsie sat with the horrible truth with no option available of ignoring it.<br/><br/>Her wary gaze slid to his hand. She could no longer remember at time when she used it as means of affection. They were hands that frightened her now, even now in the soft sunlight of the morning. He was right though, she was tired. But it wasn’t mere lack of sleep that had sucked the life from her — he had done that all on his own. Underneath the quiet, sensible demeanor she wore for him, Elsie was angry. It bubbled under the surface of gentle grace and good behavior.<br/><br/>She had opened her mouth to speak when he offered her a final threat. That’s what it was right? Her lips met once more before her bright, timid gaze finally found the nerve to settle on his. It was pride that she found there and it made her stomach roll. He had always rules the world he lived in, but Elsie thought he’s be a good husband. She was coming to realize that he would rule everything — even her. The tone in his voice made that abundantly clear.<br/><br/>“Mattie Tomlinson is Senator Tomlinson’s wife. Her father was in law as well, so she understands how the two can work together. Beatrice and Abigail are sisters. Abigail has written quite a few articles for the Post and Times.” Elsie tucked loose hair behind her ear, waiting for Oscar to find some fault with the women she shared her company with. When he remained silent, she continued, “Rebecca Stanford is practicing to become a midwife. She wants to see women get far more than just the vote.”<br/><br/>Those were the four Elsie spent the most time with. There were others, but most were friends of friends and simple acquaintances. Elsie personal circle was small, but she held them dear to her heart. Telling Oscar about them almost felt as if she was not giving him permission to forbid her from contacting them. As if his knowledge of their existence, not that he hadn’t known about them before, meant he had control of them as well.<br/><br/>“They are wonderful ladies, with beautiful families of their own.” She mused, hoping to smooth over any possible infraction she may have already committed in his eyes.