Let Me Protect You, Bethany

It was almost a command but Beth didn't dare disobey. She rushed to the chair adjacent to his. "You are here."

"You promised to spend the day in my company. The day is not over."

Beth was overwhelmed with shame. She had acted without culture, acted like a terrible drunk who would overindulge at the sight of good wine. "I am terribly sorry. I do not know what came over me." She dropped her head, biting her lips. "I behave so badly."

It was a good thing she could not see his face. It must be filled with scorn if not downright disappointment.

A switch and a small light came on. A small flickering fire. "I thought your behaviour was endearing." Beth raised her head. "It was adorable." He put out the light.

Was he drunk too? "You_ you think my behaviour ad_adorable?" Every word was laced with unbelief.

"Is it so unbelievable?"

It was! "I would think you would detest it."

"That is a stupid thought." The light flickered on again and he blew it out. "Tell me, do you mumble in your sleep?"

Tak