Chapter 129: Fatale, Part 9

Charlotte

Where is he?

My Master is not in the lounge or the dining room. I don't find him in his office or any of the usual places.

Outside?

In this weather?

I finally find him in the stables, currying mud from Oliver. He doesn't see me as I come in behind him and I halt at the doorway...

Does he want to talk to me?

Oliver blows through his nostrils as the comb circles over neck and flank. Charlie leans across, nuzzling at my Master, then nickers softly, ears flicking forward as I enter.

My Master turns, but as he sees me, displays no pleasure. "Charlotte." And he returns to grooming Oliver, this time using a brush on the heavy winter coat, clearing dirt and dust from the thick hair.

"Master, I'm sorry. I came to apologise..."

He pauses his movement, then restarts. "Thank you for that, at least..."

"... and to ask if you might like to invite Georgie to dinner this evening?"