Masters And Lovers 1-4 novel Chapter 9

“What on earth…?”

Elizabeth sits to one side of the table. Michael to the other. Each has a mound of paper worthy of a termite mound and a cardboard crate to one side. As I watch, Elizabeth briefly scans a sheet then tosses it into the box beside her. Michael is shaking his head, disbelief writ large.

“He really did keep everything, didn't he. This is a parking ticket from nineteen-ninety-two and this….” He scans the sheet, his lips moving as he does so, “…. is an invoice and guarantee for removal of a wasps’ nest from the following year.”

“How did you get dragged into this, Michael?”

“He volunteered,” says Elizabeth, her voice short. “Please don’t upset my staff member. I might lose him.”

Michael snorts. “You’ve got me for today until Charlotte and James turn up. But I’m happy enough to help. If you like, I can take a box home with me. No harm in doing a bit during the evening in front of the fire.”

Elizabeth swings grateful eyes on him. “Oh, would you?”

*****

“A pleasant afternoon, my Love?”

She flops down in her chair. It’s very uncharacteristic. Normally, my Elizabeth is graceful and carries herself well. Today she has all the signs of being at the end of her tether.

“It’s been a long afternoon.” She glances around the room. “Master, is there any wine? I’m exhausted.”

“Exhausted? Just from a few hours of shopping for a wedding dress?”