My mouth has gone suddenly dry so I take another sip of tea. I stare transfixed as Anabelle moans again and her thick lashes flutter open, her vibrant sapphire eyes dazed from her drug-induced stupor. When Anabelles eyes finally clear, she notices me sitting there and springs up. Swaying with the after-effects of the drug, she puts a hand to her temple as she is momentarily disorientated.
"Easy now," I say, putting my tea cup down and going over to kneel beside her. I reach out a hand to rest on her shoulder, steadying her, and another to check the pulse at her neck. "Youll be fine. It will take a while for the effects to wear off but there will be no permanent damage."
"Where am I?" Anabelle asks groggily.
"Youre in my home, my dear," I answer. I watch her intently as she looks around the room with vague bewilderment.
"Why am I here? I thought I thought you were taking me to the recital "
I sigh heavily and put my tea down on the table. Then I take off my sunglasses and remove the thick wig from my head. It has begun to itch and I am glad to be rid of it.