The Past

Chapter Thirteen

After talking with her mother, she couldn’t help but think about her mother’s words. It is true, she has never asked Russell about it. What if she’s not the one who has the problem?

She went home that evening and sees Russell, standing by the kitchen drinking a glass of water. She had a great day at work and now she’s home with Russell. Russell turns around and notices her standing in the living room.

“Hi, I did not hear you come in.”

“I just did.”

“How’s work?”

“Work? Work is absolutely great!”

“I bet you have a lot of orders for Valentine’s Day.”

“Yeah, we are getting a lot.”

“Speaking of Valentine’s Day… Where would you like to go?”

“I don’t know. I think my store will be open till seven for that day.”

“Why?”

“It’s been like that every year.”

“Really?”

“You have not noticed. Because almost every Valentine’s Day, you’re on call.”

“I’m sorry, I asked my chief this time… I know, I can make it up to you this time.”

“It’s okay Russell. I’m used to it.”

“I’m not.”

“That’s surprising.” Ambers say in an ironic way.

“Amber pleases…”

“I’m sorry, I have to freshen up.”

Amber left Russell and goes to their room to freshen up. When she got out of the shower, he waited for her. Amber saw the look in his eyes this time. He misses Amber so much and wants her so much. He walks up to her and suddenly kisses her lips without a warning. Amber tried so hard to push Russell, but he won’t budge. He couldn’t help himself but wrap his arms together with her hands in her back. She fought back, but Russell is much stronger than her. He carries her in bed and made sure she can’t move.

He took off his clothes while Amber tries to get away. The towel that was covering Amber’s body is now gone and Russell couldn’t help but stare at his wife’s body. He missed her so much. It’s been almost a year since the last time they made love. He can’t go on without making love with her.

“Let go of me Russell!”

“I want you, Amber.”

“Not now.”

Russell stops and then looks at her seriously.

“When? I can’t wait anymore.”

“Russell.”

“I want you and I need you.” This time he manages to take off his underpants and quickly spreads Amber thighs.

“Russell… “

“You're making me crazy, I can’t just look at you anymore. Please Amber… I need you.”

She could feel Russell wanting her. He can’t blame him because it has been a long time since they made love.

“Please Amber… Make love with me this time.”

Amber did not say anything and Russell could feel that she is not interested in making love with him. He let out a sigh and rests his face on top of Amber’s breast feeling sad. He suddenly feels bad for forcing her to do something just because he wanted to. He suddenly gets up and puts on his clothes, then walks out of their bedroom. Amber can hear him walk towards the front door and outside. She started to cry while lying in bed. She got up and fixes herself. She decided to call Judy at the time.

“Hello.” Greeted Judy.

“Hey, Judy.”

“My goodness woman. It's been a while yeah? Are you still alive?”

“I’m sorry, work has been busy.”

“It’s funny that you say those things. You sound like Russell.”

“Silly.”

“So what’s new?”

“Nothing.”

“C’mon. There’s nothing new?”

“No.”

“Is Russell home?”

“Yes, but he stepped out for a little bit.”

“No date?”

“Not tonight.”

Amber could hear Patrick in the background calling Judy. She knew it’s time to end the conversation.

“I’m sorry friend. Patrick is calling me.”

“Sure, go right ahead. Thank you for talking to me.”

“Maybe we can catch up next time, when Patrick is not here.”

“Okay, take care.”

“Bye.”

As soon as Amber puts down the telephone, she sees Russell comes in the front door. She did not say anything but looks at him. Russell just let out a smile, then heads towards the kitchen. She followed him to the kitchen. 

“Are you hungry? I can make something.”

“What do you have in mind?”

“I can make us a sandwich… Turkey?”

“Turkey sounds good. Do you need any help?”

“No, I can do it.”

Russell stays beside her and watches her prepare the sandwiches. He misses this so much… Watching his wife in the kitchen next to him. It’s been a long time, but now it’s different. It seems like a lot of things change in their marriage.                    

At the same time, Eric just got done eating. His body is hurting a lot more than ever. The doctors told him to cut down on chores, he is not even allowing him to work, but he still just to be with Amber. He has not saved any more money than he needed. He used most of it for his treatment. The only thing that is left is his house, and he is glad that it was well maintained while he was gone. Tonight he decided to sleep early, although on his mind is always Amber.

Amber at the time is facing Russell across their dining table. Russell seems to be enjoying his sandwich. No one is talking; Russell is trying his best not to carry on a conversation with Amber, afraid to have an argument with Amber. So he decided he will give Amber her space, space that she needed. Few days have passed by and Russell got busy with his work. Amber kept herself busy with work as well. They see from time to time, but no other words left to be said.

 Today is Sunday, Eric and Amber went to pick up flowers. They are going to this place is owned by a family. They have three huge greenhouses with different types and kinds of flowers. Amber has been buying her flowers from them for years. This time they will also take pictures; so, that they can put it on the wall to show off to other costumer.

Amber is waiting inside the store, when a pickup truck pulls over in front of her store. A man came down and she did not notice it was Eric. 

“Eric?” Asks Amber. She almost couldn't believe her eyes. He looks much more rather handsome today.

“Yes, Ms. Amber.” Replied Eric while he blinks at her