The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 5

by Beth Brower

Emma M. Lion Not Wholly Distrusted May She Rest In Peace

“And another thing, Islington, if we’re speaking in general terms, mothers, sisters, and wives seldom get the last word. You men run everything. The entire gambit that has become our society is of your making! We can’t even marry without it being a business arrangement, usually in your favour. As for stalking, an Englishman can walk anywhere without accounting to a soul. A woman can scarcely visit a neighbour without scrutiny. Therefore, I reject your claims.”

“If a man’s wife knew perfectly well what he was up to, I think the man would try to be better for it.”

Islington gave an almost shy smile, and goodness, it was terribly attractive. He could get away with anything.

I’m very fond of my cousin. Sometimes I’m tempted to wring her neck.

I’ve decided positivity is the Everest of virtues. You have to not only confront the dismal realities of life but choose, ofttimes, to blatantly ignore them.

“Is there a man to help me?” There wasn’t. Only Parian. But he would have to do, and he did. Grumbling.