Chapter 74: Chapter 74

“What is it? What’s wrong?”

“I am ashamed. I have betrayed you, James.” 24

James went ashen and then flushed in anger as I revealed the details of my perfidy. “He thrummed you?” His voice was hoarse. “You don’t even let me do that.”

I dropped my chin. “It was what he needed. I perceived your need differently.”

“That’s hardly the point. How could you do it? I’ve always been true to you. I’ve never even looked at another man since we made our pledge beside Billy’s grave at Teacher’s Mead almost four years ago.” He fell into a chair as if his legs would no longer bear his weight.

His despair almost rent me in two. My voice was a mere echo of itself. “I can only say I was weak and beg your forgiveness. I will work hard to regain your trust.”

“Easily said.” The tone was bitter.

“True. But that is all I can offer. That and my love.”

“Love? You speak of love after you’ve let that man…”