Stars in the Sky

STARS IN THE SKYIn the drawing room he insisted Sylvia sit on the sofa beside him. He sat with his arm across the back of the sofa behind Sylvia. She was aware of his hand brushing against her shoulder. With sinking heart Sylvia saw that the clock in this room now said half past ten. She knew she must bow to the inevitable and remain at Endecott for the night. She therefore broached the subject of the fire in her room with the Count. Would he please order Polly to light it? “What, is my little chicken cold then?” The Count’s words were slurred. At this moment Polly came in with the coffee. Sylvia glanced at her before answering the Count. “I find the red room cold, yes. It will be especially so by now.” Polly smirked as she leaned down to place the coffee before them. “You won’t have no need of a fire, miss. Not with his lordship there.” Sylvia gasped in shock. The Count however merely threw his head back and laughed. “That’s enough now, Polly, you naughty girl!” Polly glanced triumphantly at Sylvia and went out.