—Mabel—
The ride was a quiet one.
Angelina's words kept replaying in my head as we drove past the streets of Washington.
“Are you OK?” Ruth asked.
I nodded, but I was far from alright.
Ruth placed a hand over mine on the chair. “Mabel.”
I met her gaze. “Angelina sure knows how to spoil the mood,” I murmured.
“She’s after your peace. Don’t give it to her.”
We exchanged a smile.
“Thank you for standing up for me back there.”
Ruth gave my hand a squeeze. “You're welcome.”
“Are you sure you don’t want me to drop you home?” I asked.
“No, please. I’ve got a car waiting for me at the Elysian Table.”
We exchanged a grin just as the convoy pulled up in front of the restaurant. Ruth leaned in for a parting hug.
“I'll see you next time.”
“Be safe,” I whispered.
She straightened, and o
