The Painful Truth
My recitation was interrupted by fits of hysterical laughter.
"Is that how it happened?!" asked Bill, who was completely breathless from mirth. "The boss just surrendered to you then and there?!"
Henry brushed his hand across his face in a vain effort to dry his eyes. "I remember the evening slightly differently, Detective."
I sent them a baleful lower, hoping my glare would silence them.
"It was my understanding that you had a bit of trouble," Queen Moustoria stated. "Am I mistaken?"
A gentleman never lies to his queen. "Your Majesty is correct. Ratigan's men were waiting for me with balloons and a banner which read 'Welcome, Basil!' The sewer rat forced me to sing a parody of his favorite song, during which I had to admit my inferiority."
Lewis snickered. "I remember that!"
Ignoring their comments, I proceeded to explain about narrowly escaping Ratigan's elaborate trap and arriving at Buckingham Palace without a moment to spare.
"I know it is most unbecoming for a gentleman to rush up to his queen and seize her, but I trust Your Highness understands I had no other option," I concluded.
"It was only to save my life, not out of insolence," Her Majesty stated. "I truly didn't mind."
Fidget looked slightly uneasy.
