Summary
Emma represents a striking anomaly for her era, possessing traits that defy the expectations of her social standing. Her glasses, an accessory entirely unaffordable for someone of her class, serve as a symbol of her unique nature. She is literate and possesses a certain education, presenting herself as reserved and naturally refined, qualities that are frequently mistaken for being quiet or shy. While she is indeed shy and tends to speak very little about herself or others, her demeanor carries a depth that goes beyond simple introversion. Having been orphaned, Emma began her life as a flower girl, scavenging and selling blooms near market stalls. The income from such work was insufficient for survival, leading many of her peers to turn to prostitution once they reached an appropriate age. Kelly Stownar intervened to save Emma from this grim fate by taking her in as a maid-of-all-work. Under Mrs. Stownar’s guidance, Emma learned the skills necessary to secure a trade and survive independently. She is now twenty years old.
