Chapter 09
The Viscount's Cigar Case
Chapter Nine Often when Charles was out she took from the cupboard, between the folds of the linen where she had left it, the green silk cigar case. She looked at it, opened it, and even smelt the odour of the lining—a mixture of verbena and tobacco. Whose was it? The Viscount’s? Perhaps it was a present from his mistress. It had been embroidered on some rosewood frame, a pretty little thing, hidden from all eyes, that had occupied many hours, and over which had fallen the soft curls of the pensive worker. A breath of love had passed over…
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Critical Thinking Exercise
Track Your Own Escape Patterns
For the next three days, notice when you reach for your phone, turn on TV, or start daydreaming to avoid something uncomfortable. Write down what you were avoiding each time and what you used to escape. Look for patterns in your triggers and your go-to escapes.
Consider:
- •Pay attention to specific emotions that trigger your escape behaviour
- •Notice if certain times of day or situations make you more likely to avoid reality
- •Consider whether your escapes actually solve the problems you're avoiding
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when fantasy or escapism prevented you from dealing with a real problem. How might your life be different if you had faced that situation directly instead of avoiding it?
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