Nettie stared at him. She was sheltered a little but not so much she was unaware of what was going on. "Yes .. I made us lunch, and finished your handkerchief. Wisteria, remember?" She held up the black satin cloth.

"Let's go someplace so you can eat, if you feel like it." She gently took his hand and led him to the closest hotel that looked like it didn't give a damn who stayed there, a d got him a room. "So you can relax and no one will bother you." Every word was careful. She knew her uncle didn't take care of himself but she never imagined it was so self destructive.