Fast Fiction: Vernon's Secret
Vernon has a secret. Likewise, Deirdre.
Richard Mallinson tells of double intrigue.
Edna was leaving Vernon's house as I approached.
'Yes, it is what you think it is,' Vernon said when I went in. 'I don't want to say any more. I wouldn't want Deirdre to find out.'
'I'm not surprised.'
'It would change her opinion of me.'
'And what is her opinion of you?'
'She respects me for the good work I do.'
'What good work? . . . No, don't tell me.'
'Vernon's got a secret, hasn't he?' said Deirdre at my place.
'How d'you know?'
'I'm right, aren't I?'
'Well, he did admit something yesterday.'
'What was it? Tell me.'
'Only if you won't think any the less of him.'
'I don't think much of him as it is.'
'Then why the hell are you going to marry him?'
'Oh, he's rich... Now tell.'
'The fact is, he's still seeing Edna.'
She sat up, bare-breasted.
'Well,' she said, 'well, well...'
