Chapter 45: Rivals, Part 3

Michael

We had one night….

…. only one….

Our rescuers are the soul of hospitality; ‘Jeff’ taking us back to his hotel and insisting on stoking us all up with an enormous breakfast before releasing us back to the world.

James starts up the car engine, then leaves it running to warm through.

Flasks are thrust into my hand. “Refilled that coffee for you, just in case….”

“That's very good of you. Thanks for all your help.”

I’m sure you’d have done the same for us.” Jeff touches his forehead then strolls away.

James glances around, “Charlotte?”

“Bathroom,” I reply, then stare into space, feeling glum.

James side-glances me. “What’s wrong?”

“We had one night….”

He looks up at the matchless blue sky, takes a deep breath and nods.

*****

At the station, we help Charlotte out with her suitcase. She’s rather more practically dressed now, in jeans, boots and a warm pullover.