All Chapters of The Bet: Chapter 111 - Chapter 120

Unfortunately, not all of Jo’s memories related to aunt Emily were very nice and sweet.What stuck in her mind was that her aunt tried by all means to convince her, a few years old girl then, to play piano and sing, like her little son. Jo didn't like it very much. For several years, she had lessons with her aunt, an outstanding pianist, a great singer and composer, in one. Jo didn't like the classes, as she didn’t feel music at all by then, but she continued the lessons until the tragic death of her aunt. She didn't want to disappoint her parents, who were so proud of her aunt who had recorded many jazz and club songs. Jo didn't protest against the torture she was experiencing behind the piano keyboard with her under her aunt's leadership.Additionally, everyone around her believed that little Jo had a real talent, just like Patrick. Only she didn't feel this gift at all. Maybe she was too small at the time to practice piano exercises and voice emission. Those experiences made her

“I remember something really besetting me. When I was seven, just before my mother's accident. One night I couldn't sleep and wanted to go down to my parents, but I stopped on the stairs. They were having an argument.” Patrick stopped for a moment to chew his food. He did it very slowly to have time to consider how to put his thoughts into words properly. For a moment he even hesitated if he should tell Jo about it or just keep it to himself.“What happened then?” She saw some hesitance plastered to his face. Jo knew it wasn't so much distrust towards her as doubts about whether he had a real picture of the situation. He had to analyze some of his memories and insights. He was probably trying to put himself in the role of an observer, and not a personal witness of events, to look at everything coldly, without any emotions.“After a concert, my mother had come back home not drunk, but under the influence. My father was furious that she got behind the wheel instead of calling for him

Jo was very excited about Patrick's discovery. The lyrics to her aunt’s songs were usually great and so was the music.“A few of my buddies listened to the songs that I recorded with you. I know you are very busy, but... Would you like to take part in my new project?”“We didn't record these songs together for fun?”“Yes, we did, but the results exceeded my expectations.”“As far as I remember, I falsified mercilessly.”“If it were bad, I would not offer you this partnership. Besides, I wish Matthew could also accompany me and play piano.”Jo had a headache. She barely had time to get her job done and everything else she did. If it had not been for her hand injury and the necessity to do nothing so that the bones could properly heal, she could not even dream of a vacation. Not to even mention Matthew. How was he going to participate in the project?“I don't see any enthusiasm on your face.” Patrick commented loudly.“Firstly, I can't sing. Secondly, I don't have time, and thirdly, I d

“Please stop, Mike. I've had enough. We are all adults.” As she spoke, she raised her head from her companion's shoulder.“Yes, we worked so hard with Patrick, I had to catch up with some urgent matters. Luke can't pull a few jobs himself.” She admitted. ”We only slept for a few hours. As far as I know, Matthew and Jack were extremely busy too. So could you just shut up, please?”“I don't understand your aggression.” Mike announced in a completely calm tone.“We are all tired! What don't you understand here?”“Your aggression.”“What aggression are you talking about? I am tired and so are the rest of us. We want to take a nap for an hour or two, then switch with Jack and Matt. Is that clear enough?”“If you are not tired, you should drive then, man.” Patrick suggested.“Anyone, but not him.” Matthew interrupted.“Why not?” Patrick was irritated, not only by Mike's presence but also his attitude.“The next four hours in the car will become six or seven at best.” Matthew tried to explai

They chose the coastal road. It was longer, but they had the opportunity to admire the typical, local Normandy landscapes. Just after seven o’clock, they reached their destination.“Here we are!” Jo was happy that she could stretch her legs out of the car.“Where are we? Where is this wonderful Mont Saint Michel?” Mike began to grunt before he even got out of the car.“Have mercy, man!” Patrick couldn’t calmly tolerate his harshness and comments anymore. He was glad that Jack and Matthew slept over the trip from the chateau, so he had to be quiet most of the route.They were standing right in front of a big gate. Along the road, only weeds, tall hedges, and trees were visible. Jo was talking to someone on the phone in French.After a while, the gate opened. As far as their eyes went, all they could see was a grove of huge trees."You can drive in and park the car, Pat. We'll go on our feet to ventilate and breathe in the fresh air.” As she said, she started walking down the road throu