Chapter 137: Confidants, Part 16

James

The following morning, I see no point in disciplining Charlotte. She and Beth got drunk together. With the best will in the world, she needed the release after the evening’s revelations….

And when all’s said and done, nature extracts its own revenge in these situations.

Beth descends the stairs first, pallid, and walking as though each footstep might crack the ground under her. She enters the kitchen, seating herself slowly and with exaggerated care.

“Ah, good morning, my Love,” says Richard, his voice loud. “What can I get you? Coffee to start, I think.” He pours a mugful.

I wonder how she will react to it. I like it strong and black myself, but the brew he’s produced is the kind that cracks cups and eats spoons. I tried one mouthful, then abandoned the drink while I had a few teeth left.

Beth sips, then sits bolt upright, a small sound escaping her throat. Apparently robbed of the power of speech, she grimaces and then gulps down half the mug.