Trust Not The Vow ... Chapter 20

Eric Hudspith was not surprised by anything he was told about Gary though he refrained from saying I told you so. But he was shocked to learn that Rachel's despondency had led to a drunken binge. ‘I wish you had rung me at the time, dear girl? I would have come round sooner.’ He held his head in his hands. ‘Dear Lord,’ he said in a low voice. ‘Bestow upon me the chance to deface that abnormal creature.’ Abruptly, he seized one of Rachel's hands. ‘Promise me, Rachel, that you will contact me immediately if ever you feel so low again.’

Rachel said, ‘You're a tower of strength, Eric.’ She was a little overawed by his concern, but grateful for it and for his abiding friendship. Who else would hurry to her side to offer advice and comfort? Cynthia would, and so would her father if he knew, but no-one else.

‘Dear girl, if we are to eat today we had better get a move on. I have booked a table at Frederick's Restaurant. In view of your upsetting experience, I felt justified in upgrading our eating place. Steak bars are all very well, but they do get so busy. Privacy is almost out of the question.’ Eric chucked Rachel's chin. ‘A little peace and pampering will do you good. From what you tell me, you don't get too much of either.’

(to be continued)