She had completed her master’s a couple of years back. She was a researcher and teacher at our college. I used to call her every day to let her know... my progress about the final stage of the project. Somedays went like this. Both of us used to speak on call every day. Initially, it was just about the project. She used to take updates from me about the project. Slowly, things changed.I started initiating some small talk. She responded positively and used to chat a bit after work. Through the. ”I smiled, “Why, Clarissa, I didn’t know you cared!”“Not THAT way!” she laughed. “But I do. I know you have to look out for yourself, but I need you. So do Sandy and Angie. The guys, too, but they’d never admit it.”“I’d still be at the study group,” I protested.“And always looking at your watch because you needed to run home to your, well, wife, I guess. You’d only be here for class and studying. Who would I have to talk to?”“I don’t know what to say,” I said.“Sorry. That was totally selfish,. She would have her check up and then home and finish that bottle of wine! Putting her handbag into the boot Suzzanne pressed the key fob twice and the indicators flashed twice and there was an audible clunk as the car locked, she turned and walked across the car park to wards the brightly lit back door to the dental surgery. As she walked she looked up, the sky was clear and darkening, a few stars were appearing and there was a definite chill in the air. Cars passed the entrance to the car. I'm not sure if I can go through with this," she murmured. "Gabby my love, we don't have to do anything you don't want, just let me hold you and be with you in this idyllic paradise. You know I love you more than life itself and would never force you to do anything." "Thank you darling, and I love you too. This just seems so new to me." He pulled her down in front of the fire and held her in his arms. She resisted for a while but eventually settled back into his embrace. "My darling Gabby, do.