The Cinder Bullies (7)

"What a horrible life!" Maddie screamed at her sisters, who were continually taunting her about being their new scullery maid. She could not stand having everyone laugh at her, as she fumbled trying to do everything that Cindy had mastered. "I hate this role!"

Maddie fought back verbally, with every demand made upon her by her sisters, but they were all very strong willed. Not one of them wanted the ostracism of being the scullery maid. Their mother just let them fight openly, and made even more demands on her daughter.

"Maddie will get used to it!" she explained to Rosa, who stopped in to visit, early one Sunday afternoon.

"Maddie, make tea for us now!" she ordered, in no uncertain terms. "Now!"

Rosa was shocked at the cruel tone of voice that she used to speak to her daughter. Because the young women who were friends of the sisters, were coming to visit that Sunday afternoon, too, Rosa decided not to stay for tea. She knew that they would taunt Maddie right in front of her, just as they had done with Cindy. They might also taunt her.

Across the room, Maddie could see the compassion in Rosa's eyes, but she was not allowed to speak to her, or any of the sister's friends. She was only allowed to work. All of the menial chores were the task of the scullery maid, and they were very demeaning, to say the least. Maddie was extremely embarrassed about having to take the responsibility for them, especially in front of everyone, including the young women who had claimed to be her friends.

Rosa decided to wait and speak to Maddie privately if, or when, there was an opportunity to do so. Maybe she would run outside into the garden to get away from their cruelty, too. That is where Rosa had spoken to Cindy, many times.

As the young ladies approached Rosa, she could see that they were very excited about something.

"Ladies," said one of the girls. "Don't say anything to Maddie, because she won't be allowed to go to the welcoming party. Scullery maids are never invited to any social events."

Rosa continued walking and some of the young women started taunting her.

"Rosa, we know you were a scullery maid when you were young," yelled one of them. "You will always be one!"

"I am not ever going to be allowed to forget it either," thought Rosa to herself. "No matter what else I do."

"You had to sleep in the scullery, next to the fireplace, too," continued one of the young ladies mockingly. "Just like Cindy and Maddie."

Their cruel laughter rang throughout the cobblestone street.

Millie came running out to help her, as soon as she heard the young women yelling at her.

"It's not the first time, is it?" she asked Rosa, putting her arm around her shoulder.

"It won't be the last time either. Cinder bullies are part of every era," replied Rosa. "We may have to rescue Maddie when we can, too."

"But not yet," replied Millie. "Wasn't she one of those who taunted Cindy?"

"Forgive her, Millie. She was never taught any differently. We will help her."