1
June 3rd, 11.45 p.m.
“TAKE ME OUT for a little drive, Gerry darling,” Mrs. Poison said as the music stopped.
Hamsley looked at the big bulk of wrinkled flesh and was appalled.
“It’s such a very, very hot night, isn’t it?” she went on, walking across the ballroom floor. “It’ll be nice out in the car”she gave his arm a little pat“with you.”
Hamsley wiped his face with his handkerchief. “Yes, Mrs. Poison,” he said.
He knew what was coming. He’d seen it coming for the last week. He had a sick feeling inside him as he followed her steady march across the floor. He could see people looking at him and smiling to each other.
As he went past the band the conductor said something he didn’t hear. He knew what it was, and it made him sicker than ever. At the door he tried to persuade her to stay. It was like pushing the sea back with his hands.
It was dark outside, cool after the heat of the ballroom. They stood on the top step, trying to pierce the darkness.
Mrs. Poison put her hand on his arm. He could feel her trembling. “Isn’t it wonderful?” she said. “My, my, it makes me feel young again.”