Chapter Ninety-Eight: Elaine

Trigger Warning: Child Abuse & Physical Abuse

I cannot seem to control my pacing; my feet take me to the heated kettle and back before I recall the chamomile tea bag that I meant to place on the teacup before the water reaches its boiling point.

What is one supposed to do when the wife of the man they are supposed to be with shows up by their door with their child to beg that they leave their marriage alone?

In my case, I asked them to come in, and now I intend to serve them tea—or stall with tea while I hide in the makeshift kitchen section of my hotel room.

Luckily enough, the child has fallen asleep, but I am still petrified—I am the sinner here, right?

"You don't have to pretend to be hospitable."

A familiar voice jolts me.

It’s Vivian; she is leaning by the wall near the door.

"The least I can do is make you a cup of tea."

I respond almost immediately, rather before I can take in the miserable way her mascara runs on her face.

"Right! I certainly would enjoy a cup of tea from a w