And So It Begins - Chapter Two

Alexandria, VA 1943

With the war making so many things scarce due to rationing, Jo took the time to savor her morning cup of tea. She sat in the alcove of Dr. Wilder’s apartments in The Carlyle House that she’d purchased around 1918 after they’d rapidly outgrown their quarters at the Dulany House on Duke Street. The doctor was still an active member of S.I.N., but as he was nearing a century in age and still looked as if he were in his fifties, he didn’t go out and about around humans as much anymore.

“I wish you wouldn’t wear those vulgar things in my presence,” Dr. Wilder told Jo. “I find them horribly offensive.”

Jo plucked at the brushed cotton fabric of her trousers and smiled at him. “They’re beyond comfortable and even Vogue has accepted they have a purpose. Don’t worry, Theo. I’ll still dress appropriately for dinner. I’ve got to train some of the new recruits today and I’ll not be fussing with skirts in the field.”