On a ship like this, as far in the future as they were, it was nice when Mary found someone who was used to the traditions that she kept back home. She often did not have time for tea every afternoon, but she planned a few get togethers when she could find a moment. Susan was from a bit after her time, but she understood the importance of afternoon tea. Mary liked to talk with her, so on a day when they both had some time, they decided to meet in the observation deck for some tea.
Mary walked slowly, carrying a tray laden with a full, steaming pot of tea, cups, saucers, sugar, cream, and some of Max's cupcakes. Honestly not being used to serving, she hadn't realized her mistake: she should have waited to pour the tea in the individual cups until she was at the table. Now she had to walk incredibly slowly and watch that she didn't get bumped. Being in heels didn't help. Just as she was approaching the table where Susan waited for her, Mary stepped wrong and her heel twisted underneath her. She was able to get her balance and enough of a hold on the tray so that it didn't spill completely to the ground, but one of the cups toppled over the side. It hit the floor right in front of her, spraying hot tea all over her leg.
Mary gasped in pain, struggling to hold on to the tray so that she didn't make even more of a mess. She managed to limp over to the table and put the tray down before tending to her leg.