Millie stared out across New York City, her eyes picking Central Park out of the darkness and tracing the long, lighted streets. Gazing out at the city made her miss Archie. They would often stand at this window, glasses of merlot in hand and just watch the city breathe. It was so relaxing and with his arm around her waist, made her feel as if the city had been conquered by them. Today, no amount of alcohol could provide relaxation. She was standing at the edge of the rest of her life and tonight, she had to make a decision.
Archie Patterson had been her husband for nearly thirty years when a heart attack extinguished his life. That had been four years ago. In the time between, she had met a wonderful man, Earl Harkins, an industrial millionaire who also lived in the building. The chance meeting in the elevator had led to lunch, then dinner, then to becoming almost inseparable. Earl was warm and attentive and his kisses made her stomach twist into knots. But thats where the sex stopped. She couldnt get past the feeling that she was cheating on Archie.
Then, last night, the long-suffering Earl gave her an ultimatum: fish or cut bait. She had no idea what that meant until she talked to her best friend, Ally. He wanted her to come to a decision about their relationship and about her own life: either live or hide from life. So far, she had been in hiding. Tonight, she had to make a decision.
The doorbell rang and she left the beautiful view to answer it, pausing to glance at her reflection in the hall mirror. She was just this side of sixty and she kept her hair short and her figure neat. Earl hadnt been the first to notice her, but hed been the only one that had appealed to her. Even as she opened the door, she felt a flutter in her stomach, taking in his tall, lanky frame, silvery hair and cornflower blue eyes.
"Hello, Millie."
"Hi, Earl. Wont you please come in?"
Earl entered the apartment, pausing to admire the decorations. Hed been here at least... Læs hele novellen
