The Queen's Gambit

by Walter Tevis

Beth’s disposition was all right, as far as anyone could see, but she was glad to get the little pill. It loosened something deep in her stomach

“Don’t do that,” she said, and he said, “Whatever you say,”

She was alone, and she liked it. It was the way she had learned everything important in her life.

‘It is foolish to run the risk of going mad for vanity’s sake.’

“It’s good to see you.” What she wanted to say was, “I love you.”