Is this love? Chapter 16

“I will get the menus out of my office. You can already go into my living room.” Cora said, when they entered her home. She had loved walking home with Robert. He suggested walking instead of taking the tube. She had loved walking next to him, she had hooked her arm in his and they had talked about everything and nothing. It amazed her that even after having dinner together, they still had things to talk about.

She walked out of her office and heard music coming out of the living room. She chuckled, he must have found her record player. She had a record of Tchaikovsky on it, and the sounds of ‘serenade for strings in C’ came out of the record player. Cora walked into her living room, Robert was facing the record player. Softly she touched his arm. “You like classical music?”

Robert turned around with a big smile, “I love it and especially this one. Do you know how to waltz?” He asked.

Cora nodded, not sure where Robert wanted to go from here. Suddenly Robert took her hands and started to dance around. Quickly she got in step with him, he really knew how to dance. It was one of the things she liked about English men, they had a sense of tradition. Robert moved her around and she was like butter in his hands, they really fitted each other like a glove. His hand was resting on her lower back and it gave her a warm tingling feeling.

She looked up at him and saw his eyes looking down at her. What did she see in them? It was something she had never seen before. Before she realized it herself she rested her head on Robert’s shoulder when the song changed into ‘The Seasons, Op. 37: May’. Her nose into his neck, they slowly moved together. Robert’s hand pushing her close to him. She didn’t mind, she loved this feeling. His strong hand on her back.

Robert looked down at Cora, he couldn’t believe he was dancing with Cora. She was really good at it, he tried dancing with Judith, but she didn’t know how to waltz. But Cora, that was something different, the way she moved with him was incredible.

He saw Cora had her eyes closed, her hand rested on his shoulder and he felt she was relaxed. He kissed her cheek and whispered. “Thank you.”

Cora lifted her head and kissed him. First briefly, but then she got on her tippy toes and pressed her lips firm against his. Her hand had moved to Robert’s neck. He parted his lips to grant her access. She eagerly took the chance.

Robert walked her backwards. He pressed his body against hers, pinning her against the wall, while not breaking the connection. He pressed a little harder and moved his hand to her cheek. He felt her hands still their movements on his back, her whole body stiffened up.

Quickly Robert stepped back, seeing a tear roll down Cora’s cheek. She was trembling. “I am sorry.” She said in a whisper. “So sorry.”

Carefully Robert touched her arm, he felt her scared reaction, but decided to leave his hand there. “Don’t be. I moved quickly. I have to be sorry.”

Cora sighed. “The sensation of your hand close to my throat was too much.”

“I believe I made the mistake already by pinning you against the wall. I should not have done that.”

Cora stepped aside. “Well, we were coming here for coffee and the menus. How do you like your coffee?”

Robert got confused for a second, Cora changed the subject really fast. But he followed her lead. “Just black is alright, and I can’t wait to see your work.” He wanted to follow her into the kitchen, but knew it was better to give her some space.

Cora retrieved herself into the kitchen, she needed to compose herself again. The moment Robert’s hand went up, she got a flashback of Anthony. She was glad she had an appointment with her therapist at the end of this week. She wanted to go on, give this thing with Robert a chance. She didn’t know what it was, what was happening between them, but she wanted to explore. She loved his taste on her lips.

Robert sat down on Cora’s sofa. He could slap himself, why did he move this fast? He ruined the moment by forcing Cora. He could have known she wasn’t ready, but the moment their lips touched and she put her hands in his neck he couldn’t stop himself. He let out a deep sigh, how was he ever going to do this. He was falling hard for her, but he knew he needed to slow himself down.

He picked up the menus Cora had left on the table. They looked wonderful, Cora had captured exactly what he was telling her. She had a real talent. Suddenly he felt her fingers in his neck.

Cora bent down and kissed his cheek. “I am sorry for how I reacted.”

Robert looked up. “Don’t you worry about that. I moved too fast.”

Cora brushed her finger over Robert’s cheek. “Let’s leave it at that. I made coffee. Do you like the menus?” She walked around the sofa and sat down next to Robert. Her thigh touched his.

“I love the menus.” Robert moved his hand to Cora’s knee. “Thank you for understanding what I meant.”

Cora chuckled. “That wasn’t that hard. Did you already see the website?” She pushed her thigh a bit more against Robert’s

Robert looked surprised. “No I haven’t, can you show me?”

Cora opened the laptop that was sitting on the table. “This will be the homepage.” She leaned with her upper body against Robert’s while she showed the website.

Robert was looking at a beautiful picture of his own restaurant. The website really looked amazing and it was easy to navigate. “You did a wonderful job. Thank you so much.”

“You don’t have to thank me. It is my job.”

“If I remember correctly, it isn’t anymore.” He turned towards Cora.

She smiled up at him. “You indeed remember correctly, but I loved doing this for you. It was a good goodbye to my old job.”

Robert leaned in, just enough to let Cora know he would love another kiss, but not too much to force her. “One day I need new menus, but I will need to accept another colleague of yours.”

“We will see about that. Now what are you waiting for, kiss me!”

Just before their lips touched, Robert said: “are you sure?”

Cora pressed her lips against his. Robert made sure to keep his hands low, they were resting on her hips. He couldn’t believe he was here at Cora’s place, kissing her.

Cora’s mind started spinning the moment Robert touched her hips, but she managed to stay calm. She wanted this, she said to herself.

 

Is this love? Chapter 15

*I made a mistake by adding Anna already in the story. When I use the correct age difference between Robert and Anna, she should be 9. So I am not following the correct timeline, I am sorry.*

Robert was busy in the kitchen when he felt a hand on his shoulder. It was Anna.

“Which table do you want for Cora and Adeline?” She asked.

The fact she touched him on his shoulder meant she had already asked the question, but he hadn’t registered her talking to him. “I am sorry.” Robert started. “Well I just got a text from Cora.”

“Oh no, don’t tell me, she cancelled.” Anna said with a sad voice.

“No, she didn’t. But she is coming alone.”

“I have an idea, why don’t you let John handle the kitchen tonight, so you can have dinner with Cora?”

Robert’s face lit up. “I can still cook for her and join her. I will talk to John, thank you. Can you prepare the table closest to the kitchen?”

Anna walked away. Robert looked at her. He was grateful to have her, she was still very young, but she was perfect at her job. He chuckled, he himself wasn’t old, but still, Anna was quite young with her 21 years.

+++

Cora stepped out of her dress and threw it on her bed. She sat down with a sigh. She had nothing to wear and also nobody to help her make a choice. She looked at her watch, she really needed to make a decision. She glanced at her wardrobe, maybe she should wear a trouser suite. She immediately set that thought aside, it should be a dress. She got up and gave another look in her wardrobe. She spotted her dark blue knee length dress. The fabric was a little bit thicker, maybe a bit too warm in this season, but it gave her a sophisticated look. She pulled it out of the closet and tried it on. When she looked in the mirror she finally liked what she saw. She put on her velvet red high heels and put a red bag on her arm. She looked again and thought: ‘perfect’

She got in the tube and felt her nerves kicking in. Having dinner on her own was already scary and that in Robert’s restaurant.

She was almost at the restaurant when she realized she forgot the new menus. She didn’t have time to go back. She could slap herself. How stupid she was. He was counting on them. The website would go live tomorrow, he needed them.

+++

“Welcome at Le Grantham.” Cora got greeted by a host. She was expecting to see Anna, but maybe she had a free evening. “Do you have a reservation?”

“I think I have.” Cora answered unsure.

“Under what name?” The woman asked.

“Levinson.”

“I am sorry, I don’t have that name. Can it be a different one?”

Cora stuttered. “I, I don’t know.”

“I am sorry Ma’am. We are fully booked tonight. If you don’t have a reservation I can’t offer you a table.”

Cora looked into the restaurant. “Maybe you could tell Mr. Crawley I am here.”

“I am sorry, but knowing the owner will not help you to a table. We are fully booked.” The woman looked at the people behind Cora.

Quickly Cora stepped aside, to let them go in. After giving their name they were guided to their seats. Cora didn’t know what to do. Robert would not have his phone with him in the kitchen, or even if he did. He would be too busy. She turned around to walk outside again, when she heard her name. Her heart jumped, she recognised his voice immediately.

“Why aren’t you guiding Miss. Levinson to her table?” Robert asked the host with annoyance in his voice.

“I am sorry sir, but the restaurant is fully booked and there is no reservation for Miss. Levinson.”

“Of course there isn’t. I told you all, we had a special guest tonight. You never listen during the briefing that shows. Miss Levinson is our special guest, or better yet, she is my special guest.” Robert looked at Cora and offered her his arm. “Welcome, Miss Levinson.” He winked at her.

Cora took his arm, she didn’t dare to look at the host. Robert guided her towards the only free table in the restaurant, she felt everybody staring at her. She was happy when she noticed there was decoration between her table and the rest of the restaurant. She would not have to endure all those eyes looking at her, sitting alone at her table.

Robert pulled back her chair, and helped her push it back once she was seated. He sat down opposite of her. She raised her eyebrows. “I am keeping you from your work. Your guests are waiting.”

“You are my guest tonight. The rest of the restaurant are John’s guests.” He smiled, resting his hands on the table.

Cora reached over and touched his hand. “You didn’t have to do this. But thank you, although I would have loved to have dinner cooked by you.” She smiled at him.

“Your wish is my command.” He joked. “No, just kidding. I was already planning on cooking for you tonight. John and the crew will cook for all the guests, but I will prepare our dinner.”

Cora looked at the menu, then she looked up at Robert. “What dish is your favourite to make?”

“I enjoy many of the dishes, but maybe just a simple good beef steak is my favourite.”

“Then I want a beef steak.” She smiled again.

Robert felt butterflies in his stomach when Cora smiled at him.

+++

Dinner had been wonderful, Robert had loved cooking for Cora and eating it together. He had listened to her stories, he asked about her time in America and Cora had started and never stopped. He was glad to see her this happy. It broke his heart thinking of the pain she was carrying with her. Not only the abuse of Anthony, but also missing her mother and her late father. But once she started talking about her youth, he saw how much joy those memories brought her.

“I love listening to your stories. I have never been to the USA, but you are painting a lovely place.”

“There are some downsides, but I loved growing up there. But here I am at home.”

Robert smiled. “Before you go home, do you have the menu? I can’t wait to see them.”

Cora coloured. “I forgot them at home.”

Robert laughed out loud. “You are kidding?”

“I wish I was.” Cora looked at her hands in her lap. She felt so incredibly stupid.

“You know what. I will let John close the restaurant and we will pick them up at your home.”

“I don’t want to bother you with it. I will get them and bring them back.”

“Don’t be silly. We will go together. That way I know you are safe back home, and we can drink our coffee at your place.” Robert got up before Cora could protest, when he returned he had his own jacket on, and Cora’s in his hands. He was holding it up for Cora.

+++

Right now I am on a holiday. I will try to write daily, but I don’t know how realistic that is. I will do my best, but can’t promise a daily chapter for the coming two weeks.

Is this love? Chapter 14

“Two hands closed around her throat, she couldn’t breath. He was suffocating her. She tried to scream, but no sound came out of her. She tried pushing him off her. He was too strong.”

“Cora! Cora wake up. You are having a bad dream.”

Two hands were on her shoulders trying to wake her up.

Cora opened her eyes, she looked bewildered and didn’t know where she was.

“Take a deep breath, you are safe here.” It was Adeline who was talking to her. Cora looked up and saw Adeline standing next to her. She felt her hand on her cheek. “It was only a dream. He isn’t here.”

Cora curled up under the duvet and started crying. “Why doesn’t this stop?”

“You saw him this afternoon, it isn’t strange he is back in your dreams. But please, go and get some help.”

Cora dried her tears. “I will, I think I don’t have a choice.” She sat up and took the cup Adeline was handing her. After their dinner they had gone to a pub for some drinks and then they decided that Adeline would sleep over at Cora’s place. She was incredibly thankful for it now. She had these nightmares on a daily basis, but this one was more intense. She still felt the sensation of his hands, even though the real attack had been two weeks ago.

“Try to get some more sleep. I will be nearby.” Adeline said.

“Thank you for being here.” Cora gave her a smile.

“Of course, as long as I am at home I will be here for you. Now go back to sleep, we will talk in the morning.”

Cora closed her eyes and tried to remember something happy. Robert came into her mind. She saw him standing in his kitchen, with his white chef’s jacket. He turned towards her and smiled.

+++

“Robert…… where is the tuna?” John shouted into the kitchen.

Robert turned around. It was a Sunday evening and the restaurant was packed. “Last time I checked it was in the fridge.”

“It’s not there, who took it?” John answered.

Robert walked over to the fridge and looked. “Maybe you should use your eyes, because it is just sitting here.” He pulled out a tray with the tuna on it.

John didn’t say anything, took the tray and went on.

Robert looked at him in confusion. Why was he so stressed? Yes it was busy, but that wasn’t unusual. He looked into the dining area. There was no stress there. Anna had everything clearly under control. She looked at him with a question in her eyes. Robert shook his head, to let her know, there was nothing.

“Where is the sauce on this plate!” Robert heard John yel. Robert stepped closer. “John, calm down. It is a normal busy evening. The crew has it under control.”

John gave Robert an annoyed look and shouted some more orders to the kitchen crew. Did you take a look in the dining area?”

“I did. It is busy, but not more than usual.”

“Take a better look and we will talk again.” John turned around and finished the plates who were waiting.

Robert now walked into the dining area. Anne rushed to him.

“Something wrong?” She asked.

“Not that I am aware of, but John is stressed and I don’t know why. He said, I needed to look into the dining area. But I can’t figure out why.”

“There is nothing special here.” Anna went on with her work.

John was still shouting his orders. He saw Robert return and said.: “Do you understand now?”

“I have to be honest, I don’t know what you are fussing about.”

“That man and woman sitting in the back, they are from ‘Michelin’ “

Robert’s face drained colour. “How do you know? They always work with mystery guests.”

“Every year when the stars are presented, that couple is dining all over London. So I just know why they are here.”

“Hopefully we will not lose our star.” Robert contemplated.

+++

“Cora, darling.” Adeline started. “I promised you, to go for dinner at ‘Le Grantham’ tomorrow.”

“What about it?”

“We have to reschedule, I have to go away for work.”

“We can’t reschedule.” Cora didn’t know if it wasn’t possible, but she didn’t want to cancel. This was her chance to see Robert again.

“Then you will have to go alone.” Adeline answered. “You know how it works, I need to go when my boss is calling me.”

Cora sighed, “I will call and see what’s possible with Robert.”

“Why don’t you go alone?” Adeline asked.

Cora coloured and stammered. “I don’t know.”

“Oh my, you are in love with this guy.” Adeline chuckled.

It made Cora’s cheeks turn even more red. “I don’t know what is happening. I don’t know this feeling.”

“Just go for it.”

“But what if he is already in a relationship, or even worse, married. I would be so embarrassed and heart broken.”

“There is only one way to find out. And that is to go for dinner tomorrow on your own.”

“Adeline, are you sure you have to leave for work?”

“What do you mean?” Adeline raised her eyebrows.

“I have a feeling you will just be home tomorrow, and want to send me alone to ‘Le Grantham’.

Adeline chuckled. “That could have been something I could do, but no, this is real. I can show you my email.”

Cora sighed. “No, that’s alright. I believe you. Do you want a cup of coffee?”

“No thank you.” Adeline declined.

“Tea?”

“That I don’t say no too.”

 

Is this love? Chapter 13

“Here you go.” Robert put Cora’s tea cup down. They had agreed to meet in a pub around the corner of Cora’s home.

“Thank you. Am I keeping you from your work?” She asked.

“No, no. John is doing the mise en place, so I have some free time. How are you doing?”

“I wish I could sleep better, but overall I am alright.”

Robert frowned. “I am sorry to hear you don’t sleep. Are you getting help?”

“You sound like Adeline.” Cora said annoyed. “I will be fine. These dreams will fade away.”

Robert decided to drop the subject. “Can I ask you something?”

Cora looked up from her cup. “You can always ask, I can decide to answer or not.” She chuckled.

Robert loved this little smile that was playing on Cora’s lips. It made his stomach jump from joy. It was such a simple and small thing, but still it warmed his heart. “On the night I brought you to the hospital. You said Adeline was your online friend on this side of the pond. What did you mean by that?”

Cora laughed. “I guess my accent is pretty decent then?”

Robert looked confused.

“I am sorry.” Cora took a sip of her tea “I am born American. I moved to London about 5 years ago. I worked for the American dependence of Silver Linings, they offered me a permanent contract if I started working in the head office here in London. I decided to take the leap and packed my bags.”

She looked up at Robert, who was listening with his full attention. She felt something stir inside her. It was a weird feeling. She never felt like this when looking at Anthony.

“I met Anthony.” She continued. “And decided to stay here and move permanently. I realized too late I made a mistake.”

“A mistake?” Robert raised his eyebrows. “Don’t you like it here in London?”

“Oh no, I love London, I felt right at home here. Although you British people have some weird customs.” She chuckled. “I meant with Anthony.” She felt silent, her heart started racing thinking of what had happened. She lowered her eyes, and tried to steady her breathing. She felt Anthony’s hands on her throat. That has happened a lot in recent days. Sometimes out of nowhere, but now it was obvious she was thinking about him.

Cora got startled when Robert touched her hand.

“I am sorry, I should not have asked that.”

Cora shook her head and fought back her tears. “You couldn’t know Anthony was one of the reasons I stayed here in London. Now I will find a new reason. Although I recently got promoted to be the creative director of Silver Linings, I guess I found my reason.”

Robert gave Cora a smile. “Do you miss America?”

“I miss my Mother and Brother and sometimes the little things. But I wouldn’t want to move back. London is my home now.”

“Your parents are divorced?” Robert asked.

Cora’s eyes filled with tears. “My father died last year.”

Robert wanted to take Cora’s hand, but the way she got spooked when he touched her just now, made him hesitate. He reached in his pocket for his handkerchief and handed it to Cora.

“Thank you. I am sorry for crying.” She sniffed.

“Don’t say sorry for that. I know how you feel. Well no, not quite. My father is still alive, but he is struggling with his health lately and I am scared of losing him.”

Now it was Cora who reached for Robert’s hand, her fingers closed around his hand. “Of course you are. I am happy he is still around and could witness your sister’s wedding. Rosamund is her name right?”

Robert smiled, he liked the warmth of Cora’s hand on his. “Yes, Rosamund. And we enjoy every day we have together.”

He looked at his watch. “Oh my, look at the time. I should go back to the restaurant.” He pulled his hand back and was getting up. “Do you have dinner plans already?”

Cora was surprised by his question. “I was going out for dinner with Adeline tonight. Why?

“Oh.” Robert lowered his eyes. “I thought maybe you would like to have dinner at ‘Le Grantham.’

Cora also got up. “You know what. When the new menus are ready and the new website is online, I will come and have dinner at your restaurant.”

“Deal.” Robert smiled at her. “You and Adeline will have a table that evening.”

Cora got on her tippy toes and kissed Robert’s cheek. “I am looking forward to it. Thank you. Reserve our table for next week, because the menus will roll out the printer on Monday.”

“That is in three days. You are working fast.”

Cora coloured. “I needed something to distract my mind.” She didn’t tell him, she was working constantly on his work, because that way she could look at his picture on the website.

In front of the pub, Robert turned towards Cora. “Thank you for meeting me. I had a lovely afternoon. We will see each other next week.” He kissed her cheek and walked away.

Now he still doesn’t know anything more than he did before. He had loved talking with her, but was this only friendship, or not even that? Was she doing this from a sense of duty? At least he would see her this Monday again.

Cora looked at Robert while he walked away. She had loved the brief moment she touched his hand. He didn’t pull back immediately. Why was she scared when he first touched her hand? She wasn’t prepared for it. Maybe Adeline and Robert were right and should she get help?

She turned around and headed back home, she was only one street from her house, when she heard her name.

When she turned around, Anthony was standing behind her. Cora’s heart started racing and her hand palms got sweaty. “Don’t come closer.” She said.

“Oh don’t you worry. Your restraining order made that impossible. But can we please talk?”

“Why would I want to talk to you? Anthony we are done. It’s over between us.” Even from a distance she saw Anthony’s eyes cloud. “Please, I want to go home.” She said.

“The restraining order will not last forever you know.” Anthony said with his dark voice.

“Oh yes it will.” Cora heard Adeline’s voice. “I have you on video and will send this in as evidence that you are violating the order. You are not allowed to be in contact with Cora.” She hooked her arm in Cora’s and headed towards her home.

“Thank you. Thank you so much.” Tears were streaming down her cheeks. “Why does he have this effect on me? I got so scared seeing him, but at the same time I want to forgive him.”

“Cora listen to your inner voice. You are too good for him. You don’t need him in your life.” Adeline pressed Cora’s arm firmly against her body.

“I know you are right.” She looked at her friend. “And I promise you, I will go in for some help. I need to get rid of him and the memories of what he did.”

 

Is this love? Chapter 12

“That was a long time ago, I have seen you smile like this.” Adeline said, while taking a sip of her tea.

Cora had invited her to come over after dinner. She had worked all day on ‘Le Grantham’s designs and she finished them. Tomorrow she would call Robert to tell him. Today he was busy with his sister’s wedding. She was thinking of Robert just before Adeline made that remark.

“I am just relieved Anthony is out of my life.” She answered.

Adeline chuckled. “I have known you long enough now, dear Cora. There is something else.”

Cora coloured. Should she tell Adeline, and what was there to tell? She kissed Robert, briefly. But she didn’t know if he liked it or wanted it. She herself wasn’t sure what happened. She had looked up in his blue eyes and drowned in them. She felt the urge to kiss him and she had done it. She still could taste him, he had a mixture of spices on his lips.

“Cora?” Adeline touched her arm. “Where are you with your thoughts?”

“I am sorry. I will tell you, but keep it with you please.”

“Now you make me anxious. What happened?”

“I think you remember Robert?” Cora started.

“That chef from ‘Le Grantham’? He was with you on the night of Anthony’s last attack?”

“That’s him. And he wasn’t with me, he happened to be in the right place at the right time.”

“That doesn’t matter, what about him?”

“Last night we kissed.” Cora saw Adeline’s eyebrows raise. “Just briefly and without any meaning.” She said quickly.

“You can’t sell me that.” Adeline laughed. “There is more. Tell me…..!”

“There isn’t more. I was helping him in his kitchen and then I kissed him and left.”

“You didn’t.” Adeline took Cora’s hand. “Why did you leave?”

“I was embarrassed, what if he has a girlfriend, or doesn’t like me. And at the same time it scared me. The moment our lips touched, I thought of Anthony.”

“Oh Cora, open your eyes. That man is clearly interested. Why were you helping in the kitchen by the way?”

“I was there to show him the final designs and he was busy with the preparations for his sister’s wedding. So I ended up in his kitchen.”

“And you try to tell me, he isn’t interested. Oh my dear. When do you see him again?”

“I don’t know. We have to make an appointment to end the work I have done for him.”

“I know, it is maybe too early after Anthony, but don’t let him go.” Adeline said. She finished her tea. “I have to leave, I will see you this weekend.”

+++

“Thank you for this wonderful dinner.” Rosamund kissed Robert’s cheek.

“Everything for my little sister.” He smiled. He looked at her, like he did 100 times before this day. Rosamund was wearing a slim fitted, Bardot neck dress. With an off-shoulder design, the skirt wrapped around her and had a high split up her leg.

“Ros.” Marmaduke stepped closer. “I have a surprise for you.”

Rosamund raised her eyebrows and Robert smiled. He turned towards John. “It is time.” He said.

“What is happening?” Rosamund asked. “Marmaduke?”

He took Rosamund’s hand and guided her towards a curtain. Rosamund had thought that was hanging there to make the dining area smaller, because they had a small company. But now it was brought down and revealed a dance floor. At the back there was a band waiting. Robert signed they could start.

“Oh Marmaduke. Thank you. I love you so much.” She kissed him and they disappeared on the dance floor.

He saw John and Anna dancing and his mother with his father. He was happy to see his father on the dance floor. His health has been poor lately, but today he had enough energy.

The couples switched, Violet was now dancing with Marmaduke and Rosamund with Patrick, their father.

After some time, Violet stepped towards Robert. “If you hadn’t broken up with Judith, you could be dancing right now.”

“Mama, Judith broke up with me. And this isn’t the day to discuss my love life. Come we will dance.” He took his mother’s hands and guided her onto the dance floor. He got a meaningful look from Rosamund and when it was time to switch, she demanded to have a dance with him.

“Robert, you have been absent the whole day.”

“I was just worried, if everything would go according to plan.” He lied.

“You don’t fool me.” Rosamund looked up at him. Robert was tall and people always needed to look up at him. “There is something on your mind.”

“Last evening Cora paid me a visit.”

“Nothing bad, I hope?” Rosamund interrupted.

“On the contrary.” Robert started and he couldn’t hide the smile on his face

“Are you falling in love?”

Robert sighed. “I am afraid it has already happened, but I am not sure if she wants it. Last night she kissed me.”

Rosamund’s grip on his shoulder got a little bit tighter.

“But it was very brief and she immediately left afterwards.”

“Oh.” Rosamund’s smile disappeared. “Did you have contact afterwards?”

“How could we? I was extremely busy with your wedding today.”

“What time is it?” Rosamund asked.

Robert looked at his watch. “Almost 21.00 o’clock, why?”

Rosamund notched him off the dance floor. “Go and give her a call. Don’t wait on her, take a step.”

“What if she regrets that kiss? I don’t want to force her, or push in. Not after what she had to endure.”

“Robert, you can be so hard headed sometimes. Trust your little sister and give her a call. She initiated the kiss, that must tell you something.”

Robert kissed Rosamund’s cheek. “Thank you.” He turned back towards the dance floor and saw Marmaduke looking at them. He guided Rosamund towards him. “Take care of my dear sister. She is your responsibility now.” He said with a smile.

Rosamund gave him an annoyed look, but smiled again when she looked up at Marmaduke. Robert was glad to see her this happy. Marmaduke was a wonderful man, and he would take good care of Rosamund.

He disappeared in the kitchen and dialled Cora’s number. His fingers shaking, how was she going to respond? Would she even pick up? He also felt he was breaking some rules. She only gave her number for work purposes. His train of thoughts was interrupted when he heard her voice on the other side of the line.

 

Is this love. Chapter 11

Robert was finishing the preparations for tomorrow. It was finally the day of Rosamund’s wedding. He was anxious to see how she would look like. She had kept her mouth shut about her dress, he didn’t even know whar Marmaduke was wearing.

The last week had gone by in a blur. He had thought a lot about Cora. But the evening of her last attack Adeline had come by and took over the care for Cora. He wasn’t needed and felt he was pushing in.

His heart was with her and he wanted to know how she felt. But at the same time, he didn’t want to push in. Cora didn’t owe him anything. He tried to focus on his work again, but he kept trailing of. The events of that evening came by in his mind and he felt anger again.

He knew Anthony wasn’t allowed to be close to Cora, but would he follow the restraining order? Robert blood boiled thinking of Anthony. He desperately wanted to know, why he treated Cora this way. What was their history together? What had Cora done to make him act like this? Or was he just a psychopath who wanted things to go in his way.

+++

Anna was working in the dining area putting out the last decorations. She loved Rosamund’s taste and felt honoured to be the one organising the decorations. She looked at John, who was helping her. He was standing on a ladder and looked at her.

“Young lady, what are you looking at?” He asked her.

Anna coloured. “Now I have to admit it. I was looking at you.”

John got down. Anna didn’t like it when he was working on a ladder. A couple of years back he had a motorbike accident and had hurt his knee badly.

“Please, be careful.” She said.

John looked at her with a cheeky grin. “And what is it to you if I be careful or not?”

Anna put her hand on his arm. She felt butterflies in her stomach. “You know I care about you.”

John pulled her close. “I care about you two. Why don’t we drop the act.” He looked down at Anne. John was a head bigger than her, she smiled up.

“You want to go for it?” She raised her eyebrows, her butterflies going all over her stomach.

John softly kissed her. “I think this is my answer.”

Anna kissed him back. They were interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Ignore it, we are closed.” John said.

“I will tell them to go away.” Anna walked towards the door and openend it. “I am sorry, we are clo…..” she recognised Cora and let her in. “Robert is in the kitchen. Is he expecting you?”

Cora shook her head. “No, he doesn’t know I am here.” She looked around. “Am I interrupting something?” She asked.

“Not tonight. Tomorrow we will have the dinner for Rosamund’s wedding.” Anna said.

Cora frowned, she recognised the name Rosamund. “That’s Robert’s sister, right?” She remembered the woman who stayed with her the night she lost the baby. She felt a fist close around her heart thinking of that little one. According to the doctors she had been pregnant for about 2 months. She always had an irregular period, so she hadn’t noticed. She and Anthony didn’t even try. The sex they had was mostly for his lust and not for her pleasure and currently not to become pregnant. She was using the pill to prevent that.

“Cora?” Robert popped his head around the corner. “What a lovely surprise to see you. Come in to my office.” He said.

Cora followed him. “I am sorry for disturbing you, you are busy.”

“Don’t be silly, I have always time for you.” Robert felt his stomach jumping. He was so happy to see her. She even had her glittering back in her eyes. Although it was faint, he saw it again. He remembered the first time he saw her at Silver Linings, she had that same sparkle in her eyes. “How are you feeling?”

“I am alright. The bruises are healing and Anthony hasn’t been near me, since the restraining order.”

“And mentally?” Robert realised he asked a personal question. “I am sorry that is non of my business.”

“I owe a lot to you.” Cora said with a smile on her face. “I am ashamed I didn’t let you hear anything from me the last week. I can’t thank you enough for being at my house that evening. First you bring me to A&E and than you safe me from his fists.”

Robert lowered his eyes. “That was nothing. I was just happy I went to you house when I felt like it. I don’t want to think about what would have happened this time.”

“Me neither. I wish I knew why he did this. He was so possessive over me. If I only looked at somebody else, he got mad. But the events of the last months were new. It still scares me, that I let it go this far.” She sighed.

“It happened, and you are not to blame. Don’t beat yourself up over it.”

Cora looked up at Robert. “I am sorry. I shouldn’t bother you with it right now. You have a very important day tomorrow. I will leave you to it.”

“You can also help me. I am missing John, he is helping Anna.” Robert suggested. He didn’t know exactly why, but he didn’t want Cora to go already.

“I never worked a day of my life in a kitchen. I can’t even hold a knife properly.”

“I don’t believe that.” He got up and got into the kitchen. Cora followed him a bit unsure.

He took a knife. “The parsley needs to be cut, you could do that.”

Cora picked up the knife and started working on the parsley. Robert saw her struggle and stepped next to her. “Look, like this.” He took the knife and showed Cora how to hold the knife.

He gave the knife back, but Cora was still using a strange technique. He stepped behind her and put his arms around her, his hands on hers. The moment his chest touched her shoulder blades he felt a electric shock. “Follow my movements.” He said. He felt Cora tremble and stepped back, letting her hands go. “I am sorry, I should not have done that.” He said with bright red cheeks.

Cora turned around, her cheeks were also red. “I didn’t mind.” She lowered her eyes.

Robert stepped closer, he was drawn to her. He looked into her eyes. He got lost in the blue of her eyes, her small face surrounded by her curls. She her hair in an updo, but several curls had escaped the hair clip. He felt her hands in his and then her lips touched his. Very quick and briefly.

He quickly stepped back. “I am sorry. I don’t want to force you to anything.”

Cora shook her head. “You didn’t force anything. I quite liked it.”

“Robert?” It was Anna who walked into the kitchen. “I am hadding home, John is also going. We finished the decorating, we see you tomorrow. We will be here, making sure dinner is ready when you all arrive.”

Robert scraped his throat. “Thank you, see you tomorrow.”

He looked at Cora. She had taken of the apron. “I should leave you, you have a long day tomorrow. Thank you.” Before Robert could say anything, she left.

Is this love? Chapter 10

Cora closed the front door behind her. She had asked Robert to bring her home. It was very generous he let her spend the night at his place, he even asked his sister to be there for her. She was touched by his attention, but she couldn’t ask more of him. She had to sort this out herself.

She was shocked Anthony did this again to her, but she had asked for it. Why did she act the way she did? She sighed, and looked in the mirror. The bruises on her neck would be hard to cover up, also the swelling on her cheekbone was clearly visible.

She dialled Andrew’s number. “Hi, Andrew?” She said when he picked up.

“Cora? You never call this early?” Andrew said.

“Well, no. I had an accident with my bike and want to ask you if it’s alright, I will work from home in the coming days?”

“Are you alright? You are clumsy recently, first you fall down the stairs and now with your bike. Please be careful.”

Cora chuckled. “I will be more careful. I can finish the work for ‘Le Grantham’ at home this week.”

“We will see you next week then, call me when you need something.” Andrew hung up.

+++

“Can you tell me who Cora is and what happened to her?” Rosamund asked when Robert returned.

“First I want to thank you for your help. You are amazing. Cora is working for Silver Linings. The company that is doing our rebranding.”

“The creative mind behind all those amazing adverts?” Rosamund said.

“That’s her. Last night her boyfriend attacked her, she ended up at my restaurant, asking for help. She told me Adeline, I guess that’s her friend, was away and that she didn’t know anybody else on this side of the pond.”

Rosamund raised her eyebrows. “What did she mean by that?”

“I don’t know. I didn’t get the chance to ask her that.” He sighed. “I hope she is alright and safe.”

“Why don’t you text her this afternoon, to check how she is doing?”

“I will. Now, since you are here. Let’s talk about wedding day preparations.”

+++

Four days later, Cora walked through the front door of ‘Le Grantham’ and was greeted by Anne. “Welcome back Miss. Levinson.” She said. “Oh my, what happened?” Anne said when she saw Cora’s face.

Cora touched her cheekbone. “I have been clumsy. Is Mr. Crawley in?”

Robert had recognised Cora’s voice and stepped out of the kitchen. He saw Cora standing at the front of the restaurant. She was wearing a light grey trouser suit, without the jacket and although it was a warm summer day, she had wrapped a thin scarf around her neck. To cover up her bruises, Robert thought. “Cora, good to see you. Come into my office.” He said in a light tone. His staff didn’t know something had happened and he wanted to keep it that way.

Cora’s face lit up when she saw Robert. Her heart skipped a beat when she heard his voice. It was something she had never experienced. Robert had a strange effect on her.

“Do you want something to drink?” He asked, when Cora sat down. He saw she had trouble moving.

“Water will be fine.” She smiled up at him.

“How are you doing?” Robert asked.

“Alright enough, I wish I slept a little bit better. But my wounds are healing.”

Robert nodded.

“I finished the designs.” Cora continued and opened her laptop. While she was showing her work, her cell phone rang. She looked at the screen and then she put it back in her purse. “I made this font different, it suits better with the logo.” Cora was interrupted again by her phone. This time she answered it, Robert turned around to give her some privacy.

“I am at work right now. Can I call you back later?”

…..

“Just working, nothing special.”

…..

“I changed my locks, I lost my keys, so I needed a new lock.”

…….

“I will be home around 17.00 o’clock.”

……

“Yes, see you then.” Cora put her phone away and stared at her laptop.

“I couldn’t help overhearing your conversation.” Robert said. “Was that Anthony?”

Cora’s cheeks coloured. “It was.”

“He is welcome back in your house?” He asked surprised.

“I don’t really have a choice.” Cora said timidly.

“You have a choice! Cora, of course you have a choice.” Robert raised his voice. “Don’t let him tell you otherwise. Look at what he did to you.”

Cora cowered and Robert saw her lip shiver.

He sat down next to her and took her hand. “I am sorry, I should not have raised my voice. But Cora, you deserve so much better than this Anthony. “

Cora shrugged her shoulders. “He is what I have.”

Robert looked at her. He didn’t understand why she was accepting Anthony back, it made him mad that a man could have this effect on a woman. He gave her hand a soft squeeze. “Know that I am always here for you. Whatever you need me for.”

Cora gave him a faint smile. “Thank you.” She said and she pulled her hand back. “I should be leaving.”

+++

Robert felt restless, knowing Anthony would be with Cora tonight. He decided to go to her house and check on her. When he arrived, he saw a man walking up to her front door. He stayed watching from a distance.

Cora opened the door and the same minute, the man pushed her inside. Robert saw she tripped and fell backwards.

The man closed the door and Robert heard Cora’s scream. He dialled 999, at the same time he rushed to Cora’s house. The door was closed, but through the window next to the door, he saw Anthony hit Cora. She was covering her face with her arms without any luck. He could hear the sirens coming into the street.

The police officers came running towards the door and started banging on the door. One of the officers managed to open the door and rushed inside. Taking Anthony in a headlock.

Robert rushed to Cora who was curled up into a ball on the ground. She accepted his arms around her.

“I am sorry. So sorry. I should have listened to you.” She cried.

Robert rubbed his hands over her back. “No, no. There is no reason to be sorry. Where did he hit you?”

Cora had her hand on her abdomen and Robert’s stomach dropped. He had aimed for her abdomen again.

Robert pulled her a little bit closer and let her cry until one of the police officers said she needed to ask some questions.

“We will go for a restraining order this time.” She said.

Cora nodded. “I am afraid we reached that point.” She said, her voice shaking.

 

Is this love? Chapter 9

The police officer entered the hospital room, where Cora was still in. She had asked Robert to stay with her.

Robert saw Cora’s lip tremble, carefully he reached over the table to touch her hand. Before he touched her, he looked into her eyes. She nodded and took his hand.

“Can you tell me what happened?” The officer asked.

“Anthony came home and I did something that upset him.” Cora started. “I remember him hitting me in the face, and his hands around my throat. But after that everything is gone. I woke up on the kitchen floor.”

“Who brought you to the hospital?” The officer asked.

“Robert did.” She looked at him and he squeezed her hand softly.

“And who is Robert?” The officer looked at Robert.

“He.” Cora hesitated. “He is a friend.”

“When did you find Miss Levinson?” The officer still looked at Robert.

“I didn’t. She came to my restaurant. I still don’t understand how she managed to walk all the way. When she knocked on my door, I saw she was covered in blood and rushed her to A&E.”

“Was this the first time Anthony hit you?” The officer turned back to Cora.

She only shook her head.

“Was this the first time you ended up in the hospital?”

Again Cora shook her head. She pulled her hand back out of Robert’s hand and rested them in her lap. “It happened a couple of months back. He broke my ribs.”

“Did you file a report?” The officer asked.

“No.” Cora said very quietly.

“Do you want to fill one now?”

Robert looked at Cora. He hoped she would say yes.

“I think I have to.” Cora said.

“Good, I see they didn’t clean you up. Only the blood of your face. Did they take pictures?”

Cora nodded. Before the nurse had cleaned her face, she took pictures of her.

“I will ask them to send them through. We will take samples, hopefully we will find his DNA on you. I will get my stuff and will be back soon.” The officer got up and walked out of the room.

Cora looked at Robert. “Thank you for being here. I didn’t know where to go. Adeline is my only friend here and she isn’t home.”

“Of course, I am here for you. I am so awfully sorry about what happened. And I am sorry for your loss.”

Tears started to form in Cora’s eyes. “I didn’t know I was pregnant.” Her voice broke.

Robert wanted to wrap his arms around her, but wasn’t sure if she wanted it. And with the evidence they still needed to take it wouldn’t be smart. They would already find his DNA on her, he was afraid.

+++

The report was made, and Cora was released from the hospital.

“Do you want me to bring you home?” Robert asked, while helping her in his car.

“I don’t know. What if Anthony is still there. I don’t know where he went. Oh Robert, I am scared.”

Robert made a sussing sound. “Do you have a friend where you can sleep?”

Cora shook her head. “Adeline is my only friend on this side of the pond.”

Robert got confused by her remark. “You can stay at my place if you want? I can sleep on the couch.”

Cora turned her face towards him. “Are you sure? I already took so much of your time.”

“Of course I am sure.” He drove to his home and let Cora in.

“You can take a shower if you want. I will leave a clean towel and some clothes, although they will be baggy for you.” He showed Cora his bedroom and bathroom and went downstairs himself.

When he heard the shower running, he sat down and poured himself a glass of wine. What a night, he thought. He remembered that evening in the hospital with John. It was Cora who dropped her cup of water. Was that the first time he had assaulted her?

Robert’s hands were itching, just thinking of this Anthony. How could he? And Cora who thought she did something wrong! What could a woman do to deserve a beating like this. He had kicked her in her abdomen after she passed out. He heard the nurse say, they found his DNA in her, so that meant, he had raped her.

He took a deep breath when he heard Cora coming down the stairs. She came into the living room in his tracksuit. It was indeed way too big for her. She had a very slim figure. Her face was starting to colour and there was swelling on her right cheekbone.

“Do you want something to drink?” He asked.

She shook her head. “I think I will try to go to sleep. I am so incredibly tired. Do you have some painkillers? I forgot to pick them up at the pharmacy from the hospital.”

“I only have paracetamol, you can stay here. I will drive back to the hospital and pick up the painkillers.”

“No, no.” Cora said, she leaned against the doorframe. “Paracetamol is alright. Do you mind if I go to bed?”

“Of course not. Do you need anything.” He saw her swallow visibly.

“I don’t know. But for now, I want to sleep.”

“I will be here, when you need something.”

+++

A couple of hours later, he got woken up by a bloodcurdling scream. He jumped right up and heard Cora yelling. He ran upstairs and found Cora was tossing and turning in bed. Crying and begging him to stop.

Robert touched her arm and said her name. “Cora? Cora wake up. You are having a bad dream.”

But his touch made it worse. Cora’s eyes shot open and she looked at him with so much fear in her eyes, that he stepped back.

“Don’t hit me. Please don’t hit me. I didn’t mean to. Sorry, I am so sorry.” Cora cried.

Robert stepped outside the bedroom, too scared to touch Cora again. She thought he was Anthony, what should he do?

He got downstairs to pick up his phone and he dialled Rosamund’s number.

“Rosamund, I am sorry to wake you up. But I really need your help.” He started the moment she picked up.

+++

“You can explain more in the morning.” Rosamund said when she arrived. “I will see if I can calm her down. Maybe she will be less scared because I am a woman.”

Rosamund went upstairs and Robert waited in the hallway. He heard Rosamund talk to Cora and he heard her cries. It broke his heart. Cora was such a sweet and wonderful woman, who didn’t deserve this treatment. If he was her partner, he would treat her better.

His thoughts were disrupted when Rosamund opened the bedroom door.

“She is sleeping again. I will stay the rest of the night, just to be sure she is alright. My God what happened to her? She looks like she is run over by a car.”

“Her boyfriend got mad, that happened.”

Rosamund’s eyes grew. “I am happy she is here now, he doesn’t know where you live right?”

“He doesn’t know I exist. So she is safe here for now.”

 

Is this love? Chapter 8

Trigger warning: domestic violence.

“I have missed you.” Robert said, kissing Judith’s neck, who was standing in her kitchen.

Judith moved her hand to his cheek. “Good to see you.” But she backed up when Robert tried to kiss her. “We need to talk.” She said.

Robert sat down on one of the barstools. “Something wrong?”

Judith also sat down, opposite of him. She took a deep breath. “Are you happy?”

Robert was surprised by her question. He hesitated. “Yes.”

“Well, I am not. And I think we should break up.” Judith said, not looking at him.

“Oh” Robert stared at her. He had to admit, he had never really loved her. She was just there. “If you think it is better?”

“I do, can you take your stuff? There is no need to stay here anymore.” Judith said coldly.

Robert got up and gathered his belongings, he didn’t have much in her home. “Well, all the best.” He leaned in to kiss her cheek one last time.

+++

“Something is wrong.” Rosamund said. They were preparing dishes for Rosamund’s and Marmaduke’s wedding in ‘Le Grantham’

Robert put his knife down. “Judith broke up.”

Rosamund stepped around the worktop and put her hand on Robert’s arm. “What?”

Robert let out a deep sigh. “I think she is right, we will be happier without each other, but still.”

“I have to admit, I never understood what you saw in her. She ignored you all the time and never praised you for anything. I won’t miss her.”

Robert chuckled. “You are also right. I was always bothering her. But it’s just strange, we were together for quite some time.”

“Mama, was already pestering me that you should start thinking of marrying her.”

“Now she can pester me again, that I am single and need someone in my life. Now, let’s focus again on your dinner. How do you want the fish?”

+++

Cora was preparing dinner, Anthony was coming home today, and she wanted to have dinner ready. She just set the table and turned back around towards the stove.

She was humming with the music, when she was suddenly pressed against the counter. She felt Anthony’s hands on her breasts. She hadn’t heard him coming in. She tried to turn around, but Anthony pressed too hard. She felt the door knob press into her leg, it started to hurt.

“You are home already? Dinner is almost ready, good to see you.” She said, keeping her voice steady.

“Don’t act innocent.” Anthony whispered. “You have been bad, very bad.”

“Anthony, you are hurting me.” He pressed even harder and had twisted her wrist behind her back.

“You deserve what is coming to you. You tested me again!”

“Anthony please, I didn’t.” Cora begged.

Anthony’s hand hit her face. “Don’t talk back to me.”

Cora opened her mouth, but before she could speak, Anthony hit her again. “Am I not clear?”

Now Cora only nodded. She felt blood coming out her nose, she moved her hand up to touch her nose, but Anthony slept her hand down.

“You listen very carefully, what happened on the phone, will never happen again.”

“I am sorry.” Cora started, but she felt his fist hitting her in her stomach. She doubled over in pain. “Please stop,” she begged. She looked up and didn’t recognise who she was seeing. His eyes were full of rage.

Out of reflex she lifted her knee and hit him in his groin, pushing him off of her. He let out a deep roar and stormed back at her. Cora felt his hands close around her throat. She gasped, her hands fluttering in the air. She scratched his face trying to get him to loosen his grip. Slowly her vision darkened, she needed air. She felt his knee in her abdomen, then she lost consciousness.

+++

“Look at the time, I should be heading home. Are you alright?” Rosamund asked Robert. They were still sitting in the restaurant. After they ate all the dishes, they talked and enjoyed a glass of wine.

“I will be alright, I will close up and also go home soon.” He kissed his sister on her cheek.

Rosamund left Robert alone. He turned up the volume of the music and started cleaning the kitchen, when all of the sudden he heard banging on the door. He walked towards the noise and saw somebody leaning into the door. When he got closer, he saw it was a woman.

“Cora?” He said in a shock, when he recognised her. Her face was covered in blood, he also spotted blood on legs. Her skirt was ripped and she was clutching her blouse to keep it closed.

“I didn’t know where to go.” She said very softly.

“You need to see a doctor. What happened?” He grabbed the keys of his car and locked the restaurant. “I will bring you to A&E. How did you get here?”

“I, I walked.” She stuttered.

Robert was shocked to see her in this state, he was desperate to know what had happened, but he knew she needed a doctor first. She was bleeding heavily, it scared him she was also bleeding down her legs. He helped her in his car and when he walked around to get in himself, he looked in and then it clicked. He knew where he had seen her before. It was when John got that knife in his leg.

They didn’t say a word when he drove to A&E. He helped her inside and patiently waited in the waiting room. A nurse walked towards him.

“Miss Levinson is asking for you.” She said.

Robert got up and followed the nurse. They had cleaned Cora’s face. But he saw tears streaming down her cheeks. He took her hand, careful not to hurt her.

“He killed my baby.” She cried.

 

Is this love? Chapter 7

Robert was nervous, he had sent all the staff into the kitchen, except John. He needed him for his ideas. Why was he so nervous? He checked himself in the mirror.

“You look good.” He heard John say, with a chuckle.

Robert coloured, but gave himself another look. He cut himself this morning, while shaving.

There was a knock on the door. “Robert? Miss Levinson is here.” Anna said.

“Thank you Anna, you can let her in.” Robert answered. He turned around towards the door and waited for Cora to step inside.

He heard her heels clicking on the floor. She came around the corner and Robert felt his heart beating faster. Her blue eyes looked up at him, she had her hair down. Her dark brown curls reached just over her shoulders. She was wearing a dark red trouser suit  He stepped closer and reached out his hand. “Welcome, Miss Levinson.”

Cora took his hand. “Thank you, you can call me Cora.” She felt an electric shock going through her the moment she touched his hand. She felt her cheeks colouring.

“This is John.” Robert said, pulling back his hand. He had felt something he never felt before. No, well, he felt it the first time he touched her hand at their first meeting. “He is my sous-chef and mastermind behind the menu.

Cora shook his hand. “Nice meeting you. Where can I put my laptop?”

+++

“Do you want to see the restaurant?” Robert asked about two hours later. He had seen all Cora’s designs and John added some things he would love to see in it.

“Yes, please, it will give me a better idea of what the style should be exactly.” Cora closed her laptop and followed Robert. He wasn’t trained like Anthony, but his slightly chubbier cheeks gave him something adorable. She saw his hair start to curl up in his neck. He could use a haircut, she thought.

“And this is where it all happens.” Robert said, entering the kitchen.

The kitchen crew was very busy. “Maybe it’s a good idea if I come back another day. It seems like your staff is very busy?”

Robert looked at John, who was busy preparing food. “Is it busy already?” He asked.

“We have some earlier guests tonight.” John answered.

Cora laid her hand on Robert’s arm, she hesitated a minute before she spoke. “I will come back another time. You are busy.”

Robert looked at her with guilt in his eyes. “I am sorry.”

Cora smiled. “Don’t be. I know enough to work on some new designs for now. We will meet up next week. Then I will come in the morning.” She smiled again.

+++

Cora stepped outside, she felt strange. When she opened her phone she had six missed calls and 3 voicemails. In her WhatsApp were 25 messages. All from Anthony, she looked at the time and got scared. She had totally forgotten he would call at 17.30. It was now 17.45, he would be steaming from anger. Quickly she dialled his number. She felt her hands tremble.

“Where have you been!” Anthony shouted through the phone.

“Sorry, Anthony. My phone died. I wasn’t home on time to charge it.”

“So, once again, I am not your priority!”

Cora could feel his anger, but she got angry herself too. “You know you are, but I have my work.”

“That means, I am not your priority.”

“Anthony! You know you are. I just forgot to charge my phone. Stop this! I have to go, I will make myself some dinner and am looking forward to a quiet evening. We will see each other next week.”

Before Anthony could answer, Cora closed her phone. She had no idea how smart it was, but she was fed up. She had such a lovely afternoon and Anthony wasn’t going to ruin it for her. She turned off her phone, so he couldn’t reach her again.

She decided to fill the bathtub, she needed some time to think. She made a quick dinner and then went upstairs with a glass of wine. She stepped in the hot water and submerged herself. There was calming classical music coming out of the speaker and she closed her eyes. The moment she closed her eyes, she saw Robert. His blue eyes staring at her.

She got shaken up by a loud crack and voices. “Hello? Hello, anybody home?” Cora got out of the tub and wrapped a towel around her. She opened the bathroom door, to see two policemen coming up the stairs. All three were scared of each other.

“What are you doing in my house?” Cora said.

“Are you Miss Levinson?” One of the policemen said.

I am Cora Levinson. Why? And again, why are you in my house?”

“We received a concerning phone call, you hadn’t been seen for several days. Is everything alright?” The other policeman said.

“As you can see, I am. A bit shaking up by you two.” She wrapped her towel a bit closer around her body.

“We are ever so sorry, it must have been a prank call. My apologies for this inconvenience. We will send a locksmith to fix your door.” The first policeman said.

Cora looked down the stairs and saw her front door hanging on one hinge. “Why didn’t you just ring the bell?”

“We did madam, but there was no response. Again we are ever so sorry. Have a good evening.”

“Can I ask who made the phone call?” Cora asked.

“He didn’t say his name, but he said he was a good friend of yours. Good night.” Both officers touched their hats and left.

Cora immediately knew who placed that call.