When There Is Nothing Left But Love

“Hey Derek, have you looked into a mirror recently?” Linda mocked. “You may not see it yourself, but trust us when we say you’re disgusting. You better let us go soon, or you’ll regret it.”

Derek fixed a steely gaze on Linda as he chuckled. “Do you think I’m still the same person from five years ago? The one you so easily manipulated? And do you really think the Murphys have any power over me here in A City?”

“The Murphys may not be able to do anything to you, but I can!” We were all taken by surprise when Nora’s voice rang out of the blue, only to see her emerge from the bathroom.

She leaned casually against the door frame, her lips in a pout. “Mr. Watson, what do you think will happen if I pressed this?” she asked as she slowly held her phone up.

When Derek didn’t reply, the doe-eyed Nora continued, “Why don’t we try it? I’m so curious to know what might happen!”

“Nora,” Derek grunted. Even though he was still smiling, one couldn’t miss the hint of annoyance in his voice. “How did you get in here?”

Nora pinched her cheeks as she muttered, “Having to fake a smile is so tiring. My face has gotten all stiff from it.”

She ignored Derek’s question and looked around the room for a spot to get comfortable in, her phone still tightly clutched in her hand.

“Mr. Watson must have been so busy with work that you forgot this bar was given to me by my grandfather. I was bored and came here today for a drink. But I got a little tipsy and entered this room for a shower and nap. Unfortunately, I got more than what I had bargained for when I ran into this scene.”

on Derek’s nerves. She continued her innocent act as she propped her chin up with her hand. “I’ve seen and heard everything, and I can’t possibly pretend otherwise. My grandfather had always taught me to stand up bravely for what’s right. If I were to do the right thing and call the police now, what do you think will

the smile away from Derek’s face. “Tell me, what do you

about it. “To be honest, I have everything but a man. But that’s not something you can give me. You’re too old and fat, and you have bad teeth and body

to be deep in thought. “How about this? I saw you slap them earlier,

no doubt he was fuming, and I thought he was about to blow his top. To my surprise, he acceded

of us knowing how to react

with her phone. Derek stole a glance at her before turning to face Linda. “Hit me!”

chance to recover from her shock. She turned around instinctively to look at

leave,” Linda finally

and Nora, though

at her. “Don’t look at me. You’re the one who hit her. You should be thanking

thanked Linda before looking back at Nora.

went back to playing on her phone. Not wanting to stay and be snubbed any further, Derek angrily left with

over, Linda and I could finally calm our

exchanging glances with each other, we looked at Nora, half expecting her to say something. Instead,

for your help,” Linda