17 Chapter 17

Coulson came in to take the plates away and clear a space for dessert. It was a plate of cakes that looked delicious, but Sebastian didn’t think that he quite had the stomach for them. Coulson glanced at him as he put the plate down. It occurred to him that he needed to say more to him.

He managed a cup of tea and one biscuit, and then he placed his napkin on the table. “Would you excuse me? I think I may need to retire early tonight.”

Hawkins raised his eyebrows. They had barely spoken a word and mealtimes were now usually filled with conversation. And they usually talked long after the meal had finished. Sometimes taking a walk.

“Of course.” He rose and laid his own napkin down. Sebastian bowed and left the room.

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