Part 25

"Sorry, Doctor. I already have plans," I hear my uncle's voice, formal and seemingly cold. Even my hair stands on end listening to it. I shudder myself; it feels like a horror movie hearing my usually friendly and sweet uncle suddenly act like this.

"Plans? Lunch plans? With whom?" The voice sounds... What should I call it? Defensive? Possessive? Ah, maybe possessive.

'Come on, Doc. Isn't she perceptive enough? It's clear that Uncle is declining.'

"I have plans with Abigail." Oh, my uncle is being honest. I silently applaud him.

"Don't joke. The last time you said you had plans with Abigail, you ended up going out alone with your assistant here." There's a hint of disdain in her voice. Or is it a snort? Eww, it turns out that the elegant Doctor Phoebe, according to Mrs. Lipstick, can also be less refined.

"I thought you weren't the type of person who likes to eavesdrop,