Taking the luggage from Eric’s hand, I played the part of the understanding husband. Then I went to the kitchen and made him a cup of honey tea.
“Here, drink this. You must be thirsty.”
He accepted it with a smile. “Thanks, Andrew. You’re really kind.”
But less than ten minutes later, he suddenly let out a small cry, clutching his stomach tightly. His face contorted in pain. “Why…it hurts... so bad…”
Charlotte, who was talking on the phone in the living room, immediately hung up and rushed over to him. “What’s wrong? Where does it hurt?”
Eric’s face was pale as he shook his head. “I don’t know... it just hurts all of sudden…”
Her eyes snapped toward me, full of suspicion. “What did you give him?”
“Honey tea,” I said flatly.
“He was fine a moment ago.” Her voice rose. “He drank your tea and now he’s in pain. Did you put something in it?”
Eric tugged at her sleeve, speaking in low voice, “Charlotte, don’t say that. Maybe I just caught a chill…”
“Don’t defend him!” she snapped, her eyes burning into me. “Be honest, Andrew. Did you put something in that tea?”
I stared back at the fire in her eyes, realizing she didn’t trust me at all. Suddenly, I didn’t feel like explaining anymore.