She was wearing her new dress tonight, the blue one made of silk. In her hair she put white roses, knowing it contrasted with her ruddy complexion. She may not be pretty, but she could be pleasing to look at when she cared. Perhaps he would notice since blue hues were his favorites, just like the ocean and the sky.

She went to the table, making sure it appeared fit for her king. It may be set with second-hand china, but it was polished pearl. The food may be simple fare, but it was delicious and filling with the labor of love to season it. She quickly rearranged the flowers though, knowing he would be please if the colors were--what was that word he used--symmetrical! Now the table was fit for her lord and master, but where was he?

It was getting late, and he still hadn�t came. She was worried, but that was the burden she�d chosen for herself. Mother had warned her about sailors, moving from port to port. But he wasn�t like any of those wastrels with his education and manners, not to mention his generosity. She looked at the clock chiming nine, just knowing that he had important naval business.

Finally, he came in, trampling across the carpet. She knew he was upset, so she said nothing as she gathered his discarded things. In silence she followed him to the table, setting across from his frowning face. He began to eat, not speaking as he chewed his lukewarm meal. She glanced down at her empty plate, hands clasped in her lap. Would he ever bother to share his troubles with her?

The clock chimed ten as they sat without one word. He�s said nothing about the table, about her dress. He didn�t even mention the how the floors shown after scrubbing for hours on her haunches, after he had complained about the floor yesterday. He not compliment her, he did not criticize. He only brooded as he went to bed alone, abandoning his wife to the comfort of her muffled sobs.