TWO


Lena Letale looked out of place in my cramped office. She stood opposite my bare desk showing the lack of work. I attempted to comfort her and offered a chair; She accepted removing her coat. Underneath she donned a smart looking stripped suit, professional but cut to show her figure. The vertical pins cutting through the dark wool and the blinds that lined the window behind made me squirm with dizziness.

After she signed the papers with quite reserve I put the bundle in a red file folder and relocated it to an empty drawer.

“How long has he been gone?”

“Two days.”

“A bit early to start a search don’t you think? And why no cops?”

“He’s never left like this before. I’ve never known him to stay away for so long.” She stopped to swallow and breathe. “I wanted to keep his name out of the public’s eyes if possible.”

“That shouldn’t be difficult, although I must tell you that nine out of ten times it’s infidelity.” I checked her eyes in search of a lie. “You and he happy?”

“Happy as most I would say.” He face began to redden. Tears made canals of black with her mascara down her cheeks. I met her on her side of the desk handing over my handkerchief.

“Here Mrs. Letale.”

“It’s Lena, Mr. Bottino. Thank you.” As graciously as she could she took it and patted her face. It made her appearance worse so I took it back and wiped away most of the tears. Our faces became too close; her lips touched mine.

“It’s Philip.”

“I’m frightened all alone. I’m glad I can come to you.” She leaned her face on my lapels there was a calm now. She left not saying much with her voice but plenty with her eyes. At the prospect of getting paid I got out the office bottle and drank myself asleep.