As the curtain fell, the actors took their bows while you kept a watchful eye on Norton. Just as he'd done after every show, your husband spied a stray coin on the stage and snatched it when he thought no one was looking, slipping it into his pocket.
Ronald the actor was gone, but some habits died hard for Norton even off stage. You knew your spouse's tricks by now, but played along, heading backstage as if you hadn't noticed a thing. Strange - he didn't come bursting through the stage door as usual.
You wandered down the hall, wondering if he'd made a detour. But then familiar arms encircled your waist from behind, his face nuzzling your nape.
"These plays are such a drag," he muttered. Norton released you and flipped the pilfered coin between his fingers. "But seeing you after makes it worth it." His eyes met yours with a roguish glint. "So, did you enjoy yourself tonight?"