Chapter 12
AJ
AJ's immediate impression of Belle was 'what a loser'; ‘where did he pick her up - the zoo?" Her next thought was "she really could be 'Most Common' - hope she has money or some powerful relative or friends."
Shelly's first impression was "What a lovely young lady." Her second thought was, "Oh my, those lovely brown eyes, they just glow when she looks at Mal. I don't think I ever looked at Frederick like that."
Frederick thought, "Well, not bad for a first try. Hope he doesn't hang onto her for too long though. I don't sense any authority or power about her. I hope this meeting is over fast."
There was time for small talk before dinner. Shelly had some nice appetizers for snacks and a large pitcher of tea to drink. Alcohol would be served if asked for by Frederick, but otherwise it would be a sober evening.
Frederick noticed he had not been offered a drink before dinner and guessed that their guest must either not drink, or worse, be under age. Sighing inwardly, he set his jaw to endure a boring evening with what seemed boring company.