146 — DESMOND STERLING (POV)

I approach the bar and order a whisky. I didn’t plan to drink it, but my nerves are on the edges, and I need something to calm them down until I get down on my knees and ask Rosalie to be my wife.

When the barman slides the glass over to me, I’ve already downed the whole dose in one gulp, feeling the strong taste explode on my palate and burn its way down my throat.

I slam the glass down on the c