Page 30 of Beautiful Liar

“Is he?”

She grimaces. “Please don’t tell him I said that.”

“I won’t. It’ll be our little secret. Let go of the trolley and come here, Elly.”

I walk to the opposite end of the table and wait. Her movements are slow but she obeys. When she reaches me, I pull out the chair.

“Sit.”

Her head tilts back, and I catch the hint of the rebellion I’ve seen in Lucky’s eyes. But too soon, secrets and trepidation overcome rebellious fire. She lowers her head and slides into the seat.

“Have you eaten?”

I know the answer to that, but I wait for her to tell me.

“Yes.”

“Would you like something more?”

She shakes her head. “No, thanks.”

I take my place and unveil the first dish. And then in silence, I polish off an excellent chateaubriand.

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