Rose glanced at the clock, then at the door. She jiggled her leg. Ray hadn't said how long he'd be gone at this meeting. How long had it been since he'd left?

She got up and started to pace. When would he be back? She needed him, needed...she needed his help. Stumbling, she sank against the back of the couch and gripped her shaking hand.

Keep it together, she chastised herself. You're stronger than this.

Maybe there was something that could tide her over until Ray got back. Rose spotted the array of liquor on the serving table, and shakily hobbled toward it. Her hand trembled so badly that the...