WHERE THINGS THRIVE AND GROW
Marta: Excuse me, Harlee?"
She turns around and recognizes Stahl's wife. This ought to be interesting. "Yes?"
M: "May I have a word with you, please?"
The redhead looks almost harmless but there is a certain sharpness about her eyes.
H: "Of course. lead the way", she politely smiles.
They make their way down the stairs, walk a few turns and end up in a winter garden.
The stone bench is cool and uncomfortable through her dress. Marta does not seem to mind. She turns to Harlee.
"Do you love him?"
Harlee's eyebrows shoot up.
"Excuse me?"
"Robert. Do you love him?"
Harlee's mouth goes dry. She says nothing.
"Whether you do or not, I think he loves you. He has been saying your name in his sleep for months."
Harlee makes to get up but Marta stops her.
"Wait". Marta lays her hand on her belly and looks up.
"Robert is not the father, Harlee, he has known for a while. Go see him, please-it's not fair for him to be alone tonight."