17. February 8, 2021

Summary

• Emily Harris compliments Barbara's bright red attire, likening her to a Christmas package.
• Barbara internally notes the double standards in complimenting appearance, finds it amusing.
• Barbara seeks a favor from Emily, who invites her for tea.
• Despite disliking tea and preferring coffee, Barbara accepts the offer to make a good impression.
• While in Emily's kitchen, Barbara is fascinated by the tea-making process and the upscale appliances.
• Emily inquires how she can assist Barbara as Barbara hopes to get Olivia Kingsbury to mentor her in poetry.
• Emily expresses doubt about Olivia mentoring due to her advanced age and frailty.
• Barbara drinks the tea despite finding it unpleasant and learns about Emily's and Olivia's history of collegiality.
• Emily's husband interrupts with a playful exchange before leaving.
• Barbara discusses her admiration for Olivia's work and her desire to have Olivia read her poetry.
• Overcome with emotion, Barbara reveals her need to know if her poetic efforts are worthwhile.
• Emily critiques one of Barbara’s poems, advising her to make changes to improve it.
• Emily offers to speak to Olivia about Barbara's talent and requests Barbara's contact information.
• Barbara disposes of the tea when Emily leaves the room and snacks on a macaroon as a courtesy.
• Emily uses a concealed camera to observe Barbara's actions while alone in the kitchen.
• Emily shares with Roddy, her husband, the recording of Barbara disposing of her tea and finds it amusing.
• Emily contemplates the idea of adding Barbara to an unspecified “list” but decides she needs more information first.