“Anywhere these days.” Sean Newsome looked back at Rathe. “Does Dad know he’s here?”
Rathe knew that his welcome had been outstayed and he found his presence there now to be an embarrassment. He stepped forward, rubbing his hands together as though the action might wipe away the uneasiness which had overcome him. “Look, I don’t want to intrude any longer and I should let you get on with your day.”
Elizabeth held out a hand to stop him. “Honestly, Mr Rathe, you don’t have to go.”
“I think he does,” muttered Sean.
“Don’t be so rude,” his mother hissed again, a flame of unease bursting onto her cheeks.
Rathe was now at the door himself. “No, really, I do have to be going. I’ve stayed too long as it is.”
Elizabeth followed him out of the room, leaving Sean alone in the living room, his h
