The games of youth
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Chapter nineteen: The ending
I kick in the door to the hotel. I don’t have any arms free.I’m holding Melody’s limp body, it’s running hot and I don’t know why. Her eyes are closed, she doesn’t respond to anything I say.There’s still music in the parlour. I head towards it, then find the door opening up before I have…
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Chapter eighteen: The day
The day of the wedding is upon us.Everybody is running around, apparently clear on what they’re supposed to be doing.Normally I have a schedule to tell me what to do but things are different today. Lunch doesn’t take place at the usual time, people remain in their rooms to change and figure out their hair…
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Chapter seventeen: Meet the family again
Back in the washroom, I check the temperature of the iron.Then gaze upon the mountain of tablecloths that need pressing.I didn’t even know the family had this many tablecloths.Maybe they borrowed a couple somewhere?I lay out the first one on the ironing board and spray it with a little water.Then set down the iron with…
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Chapter sixteen: A mess of a dress
It turns out that the instant a human asks another human to marry them, suddenly it’s like the pair has become the centre of gravity with the whole world revolving around them.I’m not sure if it’s on purpose but every conversation turns back on to wedding preparations, setting dates, reserving rooms for family members who…
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Chapter fifteen: The proposal
We come rushing through the front door, then start pulling open the breakfast cabinet to go and set the table.”“What should I do?” Melody asks after handing me the breakfast plates.“You can get the bread basket if you like.”“On it.” She smiles as she strides into the kitchen.Then as if on cue, Harmony comes down…
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Chapter fourteen: Whiskey and tennis
The season is over.The chill of autumn is setting in meaning trains and coaches of wealthy elites have moved on to their landhouses and cabins.Leaving us with a welcome few months of calm before the holiday season gives them ample reason to come back.It’s night and yet my books remain shut for now.I’m waiting.Waiting for…
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Chapter thirteen: Love and doubt
A couple weeks have passed since the incident and things have gotten weird between Melody and me.I spot her sitting at the front desk as I make my way to the kitchen.I should say hi, but she hasn’t seen me yet.“Hey,” Melody says.“Hey…” I respond.And then it’s silent again.Should I say something else or just…
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Chapter twelve: The turning point
A closed-off facade hides a place built on lights, music and the hope for more.Advertised as a frivolous fun evening out with the boys while also promising the chance for riches and a boost in status and wealth.It doesn’t make sense.“Good evening ma’am, what game would you like to play?” The lady at the door…
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Chapter eleven: Risks and rewards
After the breakup Melody changes.I’m not sure if the others notice.She didn’t talk much around the house to begin with.But I notice.Where every eye roll used to be followed with a cheeky smile, those are much rarer nowadays.And it occupies my mind as I do my chores.The washroom is heavy with the smell of chemicals…
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Chapter ten: Losses and victories
I stand in front of mister Viola’s office.About to lie to him.I feel nervous.I could tell him the truth.But Melody wouldn’t like it.I promised not to tell.I feel like that weighs heavier.It’s for the best.Truly.But that doesn’t have it less nerve-wracking.I knock on the door.“Come in.” Mister Viola calls from the other side of the…