Page 179 of The Examiner

I’m shocked you weren’t more careful.

Jonathan

We thought we were alone at the sink. Pat must’ve been skulking. It was only a peck on the cheek.

Ludya

But after the fire, it looks kinda weird. Like J’s a masochist or something.

Suzie

If they think we’re having an affair, it’ll distract them from thinking anything else. Especially if there’s something weird about it.

Gela

There’s a difference between creating a distraction and causing such a stir that you become the entertainment people want to watch.

Ludya

Hard agree.

Suzie

It’s no big deal.

Jonathan

We’ll have a brief affair that fizzles out. I’m a troubled soul and Suzie’s a free spirit, so it’s not out of our characters, is it?

Suzie

People must have flings on these courses all the time.

Gela

Well, yes, they do, but Jem and Patrick seem particularly indignant that you’re already married, Suzie. They don’t know it’s to Jonathan. We’ll get over it, but if you can stop making out and start fizzling out, the course might settle down.

RH WhatsApp group members Ludya Parak, Suzie Danners, Jonathan Danners and Gela Nathaniel, 1 December 2023:

Jonathan

Gela, can we talk about the final project, how we organise the team and what Mae has agreed?

Gela

I can meet you in the Aviator on Monday.

Suzie

Patrick or Jem might join us. Can you come to the house now?

Gela

Now? What’s the address?

Ludya

Hey. It’s meant to be a safe-house. J, what do you think?