HERBERT'S WIFE PASSES AWAY
955 Words
CHAPTER 4
(Two years later)
I looked for you everywhere. What are you thinking about Mrs. Genius?
Stop it Lora. Why didn't Lawrence come to school?
I can guess. You were thinking about my brother so I'll say you missed him.
"What happened to him?" Cate said while she pulled her besides.
(Smiles) What do you think about Melissa? Remember you are better than her and you met my brother before her.
It's not about how I think. Lawrence is just a friend and she was his preference.
How about I talk to my brother on your behalf?
Lawrence didn't tell me you are stubborn this much.
Be frank with me Cate. You love my brother, right?
Someone turned up that Lora lost consciousness before getting the answer to the question.
"Nathan, please go and call the nurse." Cate said while she shook Lora's arms.
Cate was astonished when Lora sneezed and rose up.
"I can't believe he came. Why did you send him away?" She said while she dragged Cate by the hand.
You scared me to death. What was that about?
I am sorry Cate. I didn't want to make it that way.
Eva's days on earth were done. This left Cate and her siblings in great grief. After the burial, there dad closed in his room that evening.
(Knocking)
I can't sleep dad.
It was his eldest daughter. He allowed her in and there she started to sob.
I can't believe your mum is gone, such a loving wife but I only made her go through pain. I was not there when she needed me.
How will I make it dad?
The sad conversation continued till the two slept off. It was Nathan that woke up everyone the next day. They all sat to eat but Cate only looked at the food then walked to her room.
Cate, please get up and have some food.
Despite the deep sorrow, she was surprised to hear Lora's voice. She sat up and they hugged.
We are here bestie. Lawrence is waiting in the sitting room.
Though it was a sad moment, the twins made her smile. They were there with her all day telling different stories.
"Wow! Cate's dad in the Army uniform. I wonder if he keeps the gun with him." Lawrence spoke looking at the photograph on the table.
"Do you want to try gun shooting?" A hoarse voice spoke to him.
The grown up man said while he lied in the sofa with his crossed legs raised.
No sir, I only loved the attire.
(Laughs) I joined the army when I was twenty. It was all my uncle's help, a brave and tough man but better it was for me.
Does it mean you didn't have the passion for army?
(Laughs) Not as such, it's my profession that I got to serve my family and country. What do you want to do in future?
I want to treat sick people.
What's your name again?
Before he replied, Lora came in and held her brother's arm.
Its already late. Let's go home before mum starts calling.
We are leaving sir.
"Nice journey." He replied while he lit a tobacco stick.
It was summer time, farmers in the village were harvesting. Likewise, Cate and her siblings had learnt farming during the days with their mother.
The harvest was big and the sales were high. Just like the other farmers in the village, they were happy that they had done well that season.
Cate, can I take the money to the bank?
We've been in market the whole day. We shall go to the bank tomorrow, aren't you tired?
While they collected the money into an envelope, Nathan was astonished when Benjamin came in.
"I'll take it this evening." Cate said while she took her way out.
It was a long process at the bank, she joined the line and it was around 5pm that she finished the banking.
Excuse me madam. You had dropped this.
"Thanks so much. Please wait a bit." The affluent lady spoke while she counted some money from her purse.
It's okay madam. I don't need the money.
Kindly take it, please.
"Mum, I am done with everything. How awesome to see you after a long while in the holiday!" He spoke cheerfully.
Do you know her?
Yes mum, this is Cate. She is my classmate.
Lawrence's mum was very happy however Cate's face had turned pale.
"Is something wrong dear?" Mrs. Oliver asked.
I am okay, madam. It's late I have to go home now.
Mum, why don't we take Cate by!
"Indeed we should." His mum smiled.
I was worried but thanks God you managed to come back before dusk.
Don't worry Nathan, I am back. It's just that I went late and the line was long. It seems the season was good for everyone.
"What's in the large package?" Nathan asked while he carried it from her.
I had to buy some groceries. Besides I met Lawrence with his mum at the bank.
Did he introduce you as his girlfriend?
Come on Nathan, how do you ask such a question?
I am asking because I want to know.
You and Lora belong together.
It's because only the two of us see the truth.
(Laughs)
Cutest brother, please put those things up before I get mad. Where's Karen?
"She's asleep." Nathan replied while he arranged in the items.
Has dad called?
Her phone rang before Nathan's reply. It was Lawrence.
Who was it big sis? Is it my brother in law?
"Look at you! It's my in law. I've taken long without seeing her, are things going well on your side?" Cate jokingly mentioned.
Nathan kept dumb.
- Writer
