Chapter Ten

The surprise on Alison’s face when Nick showed up to join them for the evening was a good camouflage for the hurt and rejection she also felt. She looked accusingly at Vanessa when Nick announced that she’d invited him to come along as Vanessa slipped her arm through his and snuggled up close. Nick didn’t seem to react to her gesture one way or another as he locked eyes with Alison.  It was as if he was trying to send her a mental message, but she hadn’t a clue what it might be.

She turned away and made a point of checking her image in the mirror near the door and collecting her things as Martin’s SUV came slowly up the drive.  Without waiting for them or even looking back, she rushed out of the door to greet him.

Martin hopped out of the vehicle and ran to the passenger’s side to open the door for her. She smiled brightly and thanked him as he helped her up into the vehicle.  After the treatment she’d had from N