Burning

Gerald stifled a yawn as he stood up from the dining table his eyes growing heavy with feigned exhaustion. As he stretched his arms he glanced at Hazel who sat across from him her gaze fixed on her plate. The flickering candlelight danced on her face casting a shadow against her furrowed brow. Gerald knew she was troubled and he couldn't shake the feeling that her late-night rendezvous had something to do with it. He was playing along.

"Sorry my dear," Gerald mumbled, his voice thick with fabricated weariness. "I think it's time for me to hit the hay. It's been a long day like I said, I don't want to stay up late."

Hazel looked up at him her eyes darting back and forth as if searching for a hidden truth. "Already? It's not even that late." she replied her voice tinged with a touch of suspicion.

Gerald stifled another yawn and shrugged. "Long day I guess. Don't wait up for me I'll be out like a light."

He turned and made his way to the bedroom closing the door behind