Ellory wasn't her usual social self. In the past week or so, she was getting progressively more tired. She attributed that to her menstrual cycle. It was about time for her monthlies to come. She had an irregular cycle, so she didn't think much about it being late. It also wouldn't make for a fun 'could-I-be-pregnant' thread if her cycle worked with military precision. She attributed her symptoms of the seventh week of pregnancy, which I acquired with a quick search on the internet, to her period approaching. Her breasts felt huge and they hurt to the touch, she had some mild pelvic cramping. Just like with her period.

She was invited to a tea party. A quiet, low-key gathering. It wasn't mandatory that she attend, but Ellory thought it might help to leave the house. She hoped it'd make her feel better.

Instead, when the maid brought in a platter of fruit tartelettes and Ellory brought one close to her mouth, after the hostess had urged them to try them, Ellory felt her stomach turn around. She brought a gloved had to her mouth, as her tartelette fell dramatically on the plate bellow, tiny crumbs flinging around.

"Oh, I'm sorry!" Ellory said after the wave of disgust had passed. "I'm really sorry! It was so sudden, I couldn't help myself!"