Book 5: Chapter 173: Dream (4)
In the tavern, music from the ancient instruments enveloped the dimly lit space with a hint of melancholy.
It was late at night, the town was asleep, and the tavern stood empty except for Raymond, who poured glass after glass of clear liquor for himself.
“Damn it. Damn it all.”
With each glass, Raymond muttered curses under his breath. It was unclear whom he was cursing—perhaps he was simply trying to drown his sorrows in alcohol.
“It seems you’re quite troubled,” remarked the tavern owner, serving Raymond for the fifth time that evening with another bottle. “Do you need an ear? Sometimes, sharing your thoughts can make you feel better.”
“Go away, I have nothing to say to you,” Raymond responded, waving him off dismissively. There was no way he could tell someone else that he had been cheated on by his own wife and found out that her son was not his own.
The tavern owner, accustomed to handling many such distressed patrons, wasn’t offended.
He skillfully opened the wine bottle and offered a friendly smile. “Even so, as a professional, I must tell you that no amount of drinking will help you escape your troubles.”
At this, Raymond’s hand trembled as he raised his glass, his bloodshot eyes meeting those of the tavern owner.