Chapter Two
At The Races
One evening at supper, Charlotte made a glancing reference to gayness, in the context of an issue currently in the news. She looked to Penny for support, but Penny bridled.
“I’m not gay, I’m just in a good mood!” she grinned, with all the warmth of an icicle.
“You’re not gay?” her friend persisted.
“Don’t pigeon-hole me! I’m a lot of things. It really annoys me when people try to make you conform to their stereotypes. I’m having a life!”
Sensitive Charlotte felt momentarily abandoned, and her shoulders slumped an inch. Julia was stung for her, and unconsciously moved forward to show solidarity.
“Would you like another biscuit, Miss?”
She offered a plate. Immediately, Penny’s dangerous eyes swivelled onto Julia.
“Christine?”
“Yes Penny?” answered Madam.
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