All Things Bleak and Beautiful

By Laura Jane Leigh

THIS IS A SHORT STORY OF 8,000 WORDS, APPROX.

NOTE: CONTAINS SOME SWEARING

Catherine is in love with Bill, a man hired by her therapist to help her overcome a phobia. She knows the relationship is wrong, but she can't break away. Without Bill, she thinks, her life would be too bleak. She drifts along uneasily, telling herself she's happy. Then disaster strikes . . 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Laura Jane Leigh
• Release date: Jul 17, 2013
• ISBN: 9781498941419

Book preview

Montreal, 1986

She thought they made an attractive couple. As they stopped in front of Simpson's window, she could see their reflection in the glass. Even as a faint image of himself, he looked impressive: a dark-haired young professional in a charcoal-grey overcoat and white scarf. Quickly she checked her hair and make-up. Yes, she looked nice, too. Her brown suede jacket and jeans were casual, but sexy.

They moved on, heading towards Eaton's. This was what she loved, these first few moments together, walking side by side, not touching, except for the occasional graze of a shoulder through thick winter clothes. The anticipation sharpened her senses, making everything bright and beautiful, like a hymn: the snow-packed streets, the glinting sunlight, the clear, blue January sky. Mostly it was the sex she wanted, but not only that; she was looking forward to the whole afternoon.

Remember last time? Catherine said cheerfully. It was just before Christmas, and we went to Eaton's toy department and bought Timmy a present.

Oh, yeah, said Bill. That huge, red truck.

Did he like it?

He loved it. He played with it all Christmas Day.

Catherine smiled, but she was wondering about something. Bill and Angela were supposed to be separated, but he still went to Ottawa every few weeks to visit their small son. If Bill was with Timmy all Christmas Day, didn't that mean . . . 

She couldn't ask, though, without sounding possessive.

Reaching Eaton's, they headed directly for the elevators. Oh, God, said Catherine nervously, taking in a deep breath. She stared at the closed metal door, willing herself not to be afraid. What the hell! she said at last, laughing bravely.

Okay, begin, Bill said, in a calm voice. Inhale, counting to five. Hold. Then exhale slowly, one, two, three, four, five. You are in control.

I am in control. She began counting quietly. The heavy doors opened and she felt her heart start to pound. Luckily the crowd jamming the elevator streamed out and she and Bill could get on alone. He pressed the button for her, choosing nine, the highest floor.

She felt confident at first, determined to conquer her nervousness. Except that the elevator stopped at the next floor and the next, filling up with