Blossom had spent the first half-hour of the party keeping an eye on the hostess while trying to keep a safe distance. “Don’t ye get too close,” she reminded herself. “Ye mustn’t look suspicious. They toss yer out on yer arse if ye suspicious”. Having barely missed the thundershower on the way in. Walking home in the mud with nothing but the heels she was having enough trouble walking with in the ballroom was unthinkable.

She had picked up a drink for camouflage. She was so nervous she had no desire to drink any of it.

The woman had finished talking with the musician. To her relief, Kevin was asleep at the time. She hoped he would wake up before she made her move. Of course, he seemed to be asleep even when he was playing, but she’d have to take her chance before it was too late.

Blossom took a deep breath took a step forward and…

Something tugged on her skirt.