Billy Boyle (Billy Boyle World War II, #1)

by James R. Benn

“You shouldn’t blame Jens for the transfer, you know. I think he was trying to help.” “Jens?” She sniffled. “What did he have to do with my transfer?” “Huh? Didn’t he . . .” “No. Anders issued the order. He said he needed me at the Norwegian Brigade base in Scotland. I was glad to go. I just wasn’t prepared to come back here, to all this.” She gestured at the room, the house, the memories, everything. Anders. Anders had been up early in the morning and transferred the only person who had seen him far away from Beardsley Hall. Anders. That made me rethink things. He had been a distant third until now, but this put him tops in my hit parade. Leaving the key in his own room was a nice touch, I had to admit. I hoped Daphne had been able to get his orders to Norway canceled. That made me think of getting back to the hall. I looked at my watch. “Billy, please don’t go.” “I have to.” “I can’t stay here alone another night. I’m leaving for Scotland tomorrow; I don’t care about the rest of my leave.” She finally looked at me. There was nothing sexy or even pretty left in her face. There was anguish, and shame. Her hand trembled in mine. With the other she grasped the collar of her sundress and pulled it closed. “Okay.”