𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐠𝐚𝐥

As Evelyn entered the study, she could smell a mixture of two very distinct smells, bourbon and cologne. Lit by only the glow of a small, naked flame found on an oak writing desk in the corner, the room quite dim, but once your eyes adjusted it was a comforting dimness.

The room was painted a warm tan colour from top to bottom. The ceiling of the room was the same colour as the walls and the floor was made of dark brown stained wood paneling.

Next to a brown chair sat a coffee table and on it sat the bottle of bourbon that was the source of the mentioned smell.

A smell Evelyn grew to appreciate, as it meant her fiancé was home.

Entering the small room, she found James writing swiftly into a small leather book.

"Peter?" She called causing his hand to falter but begin writing immediately after.

"Yes Evie what is it now?"

Evelyn despised when he called her that, as it was a name reserved for Michael and only Michael.

She shyly gazed at him through her lashes "I was just wondering if I could visit an old friend in Small Heath? It would only be for a couple of days."

"I hope this friend isn't Michael?"

"Of course not! Her name's Polly, her nephews getting married you see and she was wondering if I would be so kind as to accompany her." She replied while making herself a cup of tea.

"Only for a few days, the engagement dinner is on Friday I expect you back for it, understood?"

Evelyn found it difficult to hide the small smile on her face, hiding it behind the floral china teacup.

However, perhaps smile wasn't the right word for it. The top row of teeth was showing, and there was a faint curve to the lips, but there was no crease below the eyes, no movement of the cheeks. On anyone else, it would be a grimace but on her face, however, it was a sign of pure euphoria.