Melody Trumpet chapter sampler

‘To your wing!’ Mrs Trumpet repeated. ‘I have something important to discuss with your father.’ Melody bit her lip. It was clear where her mother’s priorities lay. She swiped her finger through the melted ice-cream again and stood up to leave. ‘Where are your manners?’ Mrs Trumpet scolded with a raised eyebrow. ‘This is not a household for wild animals.’ ‘Thank you,’ Melody whispered as she pushed her chair in under the dining table, then did a quick curtsy. Mrs Trumpet’s eyes remained cold as she released a thin-lipped smile. ‘Good night, my child. Sleep well.’ Melody nodded, mumbled, ‘Thank you, Mother,’ and left the dining room. As the door clicked shut behind her, a wild-eyed Mrs Trumpet turned to her husband. ‘Oh, sugar plum, it’s happening — all our worst fears. Principal Sharp has just delivered the most terrible news, and for once there’s nothing we can do!’ She dabbed at her heaving bosom with a lacy white handkerchief. ‘She has personally invited the entire family, including Melody, to a very public event.’ ‘Send her another generous contribution,’ Mr Trumpet said, returning his attention to the screen, where he was now receiving an award for his fourth concerto. ‘That should keep her off our backs for another year.’

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