Chapter 4

Crystal was very angry at her husband. She was so angry that she threatened to leave home and never return. He didn't seem to be impressed at all. He said that he refused to pay for absurd luxuries anymore. His smile was driving her crazy, his calm manners even more so. Crystal wondered what was going on with Bobby. The first year of their marriage was perfect, but then ... he changed.

Crystal bought a new dress, and immediately felt much better. Then she had coffee with a friend hers, a friend who was a good listener. After sharing her problems with him, she felt well enough to go home.

It was already dark outside. She looked around for a taxi, but there was none. Her chances of finding one were slim because she was standing on a deserted side street. Across the street was a park, and in the distance, she could see the traffic lights at the end of East Road. She headed in that direction.

Beyond the arched entrance of the park was a large, stone staircase that was lined with trees and bushes. Two lamps were illuminating the upper part of the staircase. The lower part was in darkness. She could see kids playing among the trees.