Team Ahimsa Blog Relay, Various Contests

Nails and Polishing Them

Words: 290 For "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge" 

"Be careful, my dear," Evelyn drawled. "Make sure you polish each nail evenly. Last time you didn't put the second coat on the pinkie, and that just won't do you know."

"I'm sorry," Helen murmured. She would've liked to tell Evelyn exactly where she could put her pinkie, but didn't dare to speak her mind. She had landed this beauty-parlour job with difficulty and didn't want to get the sack for offending a rich customer. She had to prove to the world, and to her parents, and to herself, that she could hold a job - that she was capable and independent. Ironic that being capable and independent involved being subservient and meek sometimes.

She continued with the manicure, filing the dainty nails on the smooth fingers.

Evelyn was telling her something. From the tone, it was something she was proud of. "That's nice," Helen responded, hoping it would do.

"Nice? Why my Christopher is heading the branch. That's why I have to look perfect for this party, you know. Two hundred employees and their spouses, and I'm the chief's wife. Now you be careful with that pinkie, dearie."

"Helen?" came a voice from the reception. "Have you put your mobile off?"

"Yes, I always do when I'm manicuring," she called back. "Why?"

"Your Dad called on the landline. He said be home early, he's decided you and your Mom are going to the office party with him."

"Oh, you're going to an office party too?" Evelyn cooed. "It's marvellous, but do you have a good enough dress? And where does your Dad work, dearie?"

Helen looked her in the eye and replied, "He founded the Mega Company, and he owns it, Ma'am. I believe your husband heads the local branch."