Suddenly, last April

Alma couldn't talk about it. Not with Emmett.

Of course, Emmett went to make tea, which surprised her. She watched him scurry around, finding some cookies. It was like an impromptu tea party. She'd never seen this side of him before. Usually, he was mad about something, all the time.

She sat on the old sofa, even if it was in mint condition. Thankfully, she didn't have to think about Dora at the moment. Still, she nursed her bottom lip.

Nobody, wanted to know of Alma's troubles. This was something that never happened to anyone. And Alma couldn't exactly explain why it happened.

Then she remembered. It was the wine.

She frowned more. She didn't want to think about it, but she couldn't stop.

Yes, she knew this was all Geo's fault. If..if he hadn't left them alone...

Emmett sat down with the brewing tea and served her as if he was the best host of little tea parties. She took the cup and held the hot tea to her lips.

Honestly, she hadn't slept since that night with Dora.

Of course, Dora came and went on her own late schedule.

Alma let Dora have her room. Alma stayed away and catnapped on the couch when she could.

Still, Emmett asked about Dora.

"We, we went to school, together." She nodded. "She, she's moved back."

Alma imagined Dora had a lot of money, but did she spend it all on the party-life? What could Alma tell her boss?

"In with you?" Emmett winced.

Alma shrugged, sadly. It looked that way.

Alma's fingertips touched her lips. Still raw. She pressed her lips tightly.

Here she'd waited all her life for the perfect kiss and instead..it felt as if someone tortured her with an old knife.