Leaving...

The television flickered.

Her high heels clicked loudly as she paced on the marble floor. Someone was going to pay for this.

She turned as the door opened.

"You're back." Her voice was flat.
He walked over to the television and turned it off.
"Yes. I'm back. I came as soon as I could after your message."

He retreated into the kitchen. She stood perfectly still, each breath deep and even. There was no where else to go from there, he had to return.

His voice appeared in the room before he did.
"Did you want a drink?"
"No."

She tapped a foot impatiently.

"You sure?"

A sharp intake of breath before she bit back the words forming in her throat.

"Yes."

He strode back into the room opening a beer and finally stood in front of her.

"Go on then."

"I'm staying."

He blinked, looked confused. It made her smile.

"You ... sorry, I didn't understand what you said."
"You did. I'm staying."
"You are?"
"Yes." She smiled fully now, enjoying his discomfort. "I decided that it was best. I'm sure you are relieved."

His face crinkled slightly before he turned away.

"You'll explain it to her, I'm sure," she continued. "That clearly it has to end now, that you can't afford the risk."

He kept his back to her.

"Or would it be easier if I did?"

She almost laughed out loud as he shook his head no rapidly, almost involuntarily. He seemed lost for words.

She walked back over to the television, turned it on. As she made herself comfortable on the sofa she spoke again.

"So, that's that. We'll make the best of it. I'm sure she'll understand."

He nodded slowly, regretfully and walked back towards the kitchen for another drink. Maybe then he'd find the words...