Serpent & Dove
Monsieur Bernard: Lou
by Mahurin, ShelbyLou and Reid enjoy a playful and intimate morning at the Saint Nicolas Festival, reveling in their newfound connection. Lou reflects on her last night in the attic and her decision to leave Soleil et Lune, embracing Reid as her new home. Their banter is lighthearted and flirtatious, with Lou teasing Reid about his past judgments of her, calling her a “heathen.” The couple’s chemistry is palpable as they share sweet moments, like Lou licking icing off Reid’s fingers, showcasing their growing comfort and affection for each other.
Their playful dynamic is interrupted when Madame Labelle, the brothel madam, approaches them. Her attention is immediately drawn to Lou’s mother-of-pearl ring and Reid’s face, sparking curiosity and tension. Madame Labelle’s probing questions about Reid’s character and her intense gaze unsettle Lou, who begins to notice the striking resemblance between Reid and the madam. The realization dawns on Lou that Madame Labelle might be Reid’s mother, adding a layer of complexity to their encounter.
Madame Labelle’s behavior grows increasingly urgent as she warns Lou to keep the ring hidden, hinting at an unseen threat in the city. Her cryptic message—”Don’t let her see”—alarms Lou, who senses the gravity of the situation. Reid, oblivious to the underlying implications, becomes protective and forcibly removes Lou from the confrontation. The chapter ends with tension unresolved, leaving readers questioning Madame Labelle’s motives and the significance of the ring.
The chapter masterfully blends romance and suspense, deepening the emotional bond between Lou and Reid while introducing a mysterious new conflict. Lou’s internal struggle—balancing her happiness with Reid against the looming danger—sets the stage for future developments. The revelation of Madame Labelle’s potential connection to Reid adds a personal stake to the unfolding drama, ensuring readers are left eager for the next chapter.
FAQs
1. How does Lou’s attitude toward Reid differ from their initial interactions, and what does this reveal about their relationship development?
Answer:
Lou’s playful and affectionate behavior toward Reid—such as licking icing off his finger, kissing his nose, and using endearments like “Chass”—shows a dramatic shift from their earlier antagonistic relationship. This demonstrates their growing intimacy and comfort with each other. Reid’s relaxed reactions (chuckling instead of blushing) further indicate mutual adaptation, as he no longer responds with the rigid propriety that once defined him. Their banter about past nicknames (“heathen” and “prig”) also highlights how far they’ve come from initial judgments to acceptance and affection.2. What is the significance of Madame Labelle’s revelation about Reid’s surname, and how does it connect to the chapter’s tension?
Answer:
Madame Labelle’s question about Reid’s surname (“Diggory” meaning “lost one”) subtly hints at her potential familial connection to him, which is later confirmed when Lou notices their identical blue eyes. This moment builds dramatic irony, as readers (and Lou) realize Madame Labelle is Reid’s mother before he does. The surname’s meaning (“lost one”) metaphorically reflects Reid’s separation from his mother and possibly his unresolved past. This revelation adds layers to the confrontation, as Madame Labelle’s probing questions (“Is he a good man?”) take on maternal concern rather than mere curiosity.3. Analyze the symbolic contrast between Lou’s new red cloak and her previous white one. How might this reflect her character arc?
Answer:
The red cloak replaces Lou’s white one, symbolizing her transition from innocence (associated with white) to passion, defiance, or newfound identity (red). White often represents purity or blank slates, aligning with Lou’s earlier attempts to hide her witch identity. Red, however, signals boldness—embracing her marriage to Reid, her desires (“insatiable” nature), and her acceptance of complexity. The color shift may also foreshadow danger or conflict, as red frequently symbolizes blood or warning, mirroring Madame Labelle’s ominous warnings about an unnamed “she” in the city.4. Why does Madame Labelle’s warning—”Don’t let her see [the ring]“—create suspense, and what literary devices are employed in this scene?
Answer:
The warning introduces suspense through vagueness (“she” is unnamed) and urgency (“wear it always”). This employs foreshadowing (hinting at future threats) and dramatic irony (readers don’t know who “she” is, but Lou’s alarmed reaction suggests danger). The “buzzing” sensation Lou feels earlier is a sensory motif that builds unease, while Madame Labelle’s “iron grip” and panic-stricken tone heighten tension. The ring itself becomes a Chekhov’s gun—an object that will likely play a pivotal role later, especially given its connection to Lou’s witch identity (“Angelica’s Ring”).5. How does the chapter balance romantic moments with underlying conflict, and what effect does this have on the narrative pacing?
Answer:
The chapter juxtaposes lighthearted romance (Lou and Reid’s playful teasing, shared kisses) with sudden tension (Madame Labelle’s interruption). This creates a rollercoaster effect, keeping readers engaged through contrast. The festive Saint Nicolas Festival backdrop initially amplifies their joy, making Madame Labelle’s ominous appearance more jarring. The shift from Reid licking icing to gripping Lou’s arm “tighter than strictly necessary” mirrors the tone’s pivot from sweet to sinister. This balance ensures the plot progresses while deepening character relationships, preventing the story from becoming either overly saccharine or relentlessly grim.
Quotes
1. “I’d found a new home.”
This simple yet powerful statement captures Lou’s emotional transformation and sense of belonging with Reid, marking a pivotal shift from her previous life at Soleil et Lune to her new future.
2. “‘You are insatiable, Madame Diggory.’ ‘You don’t know the half of it. I still have lots to teach you, Chass.’”
This playful yet intimate exchange showcases the dynamic chemistry between Lou and Reid, revealing both their growing affection and Lou’s mischievous personality that continues to surprise him.
3. “Madame Labelle was Reid’s mother.”
This revelation is a major turning point in the chapter, uncovering a hidden connection between characters that adds depth to the story and raises questions about Reid’s past and Madame Labelle’s intentions.
4. “‘Wear it always, Lou, but don’t let her see. She’s here, in the city.’”
Madame Labelle’s urgent warning about the ring and an unnamed threat (“she”) introduces suspense and foreshadows impending danger, hinting at larger conflicts to come in the story.