The Gala III

To Blue, the party was a more official symbolism of her doom than the gala had been. Richard had proudly dragged her to the head of the table to give his speech; her waist in one hand, a microphone in the other. This time, she didn’t look nearly as terrified standing by his side. She’d come to tolerate Richard, rather reluctantly, yet still. When she looked up at him with a smile as he re-introduced his fiancé, she took pride in the fact she could have been dealt far worse. Richard had become a friend. Respected her desire to be alone when she felt so. Allowed her to choose the film. Made sure she had the breakfast she wanted. Believed her obviously lie of a diet when she rejected a glass of wine. Seemed rather proud, himself, to have Blue by his side.

He kept it brief. She could respect that. Announced that Christopher had officially relinquished his shares, despite the fact their solicitors were still liaising. This time, Blue didn’t hope t