20
Doris opened the door and smiled to find George standing on the verandah. She ushered him inside and gave a furtive glance up and down the street before closing the door. She was still a single woman and he a married man. ‘Here, George, let me take your jacket.’
‘Ah, thank you.’ He watched her hang it on a hook in the entryway.
‘Can I get you a drink? Tea perhaps?’
George cleared his throat. ‘No, I can’t stay. I’m sorry, Doris, but I’ve come to return your gift. I really can’t accept it.’ He held out the envelope.
Doris ignored it and crossed her arms. ‘You don’t sound very convinced.’
‘Well…’
She pursed her lips. ‘You don’t have to say a word. It’s Cissie, isn’t it? I knew there’d be trouble as soon as I saw her.’
‘Oh no, don’t worry about it. You were just being your usual lov
