Chapter 23

Emmeline admired her ability to maintain her composure and friendliness, even in the face of Richard’s less-than-subtle attention.

There was a brief, loaded silence as Minie’s sharp eyes continued to flitter between the couple, assessing the dynamic and undercurrent between them.

Emmeline could almost see the gears turning in the latter’s head, no doubt filing away this interaction for future gossip fodder.

“You’re coming to the barbecue on Sunday night, aren’t you?” She finally spoke again, but her voice was clipped.

Emmeline lowered her head. She knew these gatherings always felt more like an obligation than a pleasure for her dead-beat husband.

“Sure!” Richard’s answer shocked her.

Her head whipped up to stare at him incredulously.

“Of course we will come,” he reiterated without hesitation, not even glancing Emmeline’s way to gauge her reaction or interest. It was so typical of him to make decisions for both of them without consulting her