Limp paper chains, half-eaten sandwiches, discarded party hats. An abandoned birthday cake collapsed on the table, crumbs scattered across the cloth.
Louise stood still, studying the scene. She couldn’t look at Ted.
A surprise party for her held the previous evening. But only Ted’s friends were invited. None of her friends were allowed to turn up.
Mind, Louise wasn’t there either. She’d spent the night with her boss. Warm and safe in the linen sheets of his bed. No threats, no bruises, no games. No husha-husha Louise falls down.
She packed a bag. No more unwelcome surprises.