The Left-Handed Marriage by O'Connor A

Author:O'Connor, A. [O'Connor, A.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Poolbeg Press
Published: 2014-10-20T00:00:00+00:00

Max was gently led down the stairs by Diana that evening.

“Where is everybody? Where are all the servants?” he asked.

Diana realised how everything must seem different to him. The army of staff that had kept the estate ticking like clockwork was gone.

“The men are at war, Max, and the women left for the cities. We don’t really need them any more, we manage just fine. It’s only me here.”

She led him down the hallway and into the dining room. Gerti had laid out a spread with what Paul had bought earlier. Angela the grocer had charged an exorbitant amount but Diana just felt relief that she could welcome Max home in comfort. He sat down at the head of the table and she sat beside him. He stared at the food in front of him.

He picked up his fork and began to eat.

He seemed so fragile, Diana thought, as she poured wine into their glasses.

“This is quite a feast,” he smiled. “Not what we are used to in the trenches.”

She smiled at him and began to eat.

“Brigitte and your family will all be desperate to see you,” she said.

He nodded and then said, “Don’t tell them I’m home just yet. I’d like some time alone with you.”

“Of course. Take all the time you need. You need to relax. We can go walking and riding,” she agreed, relieved at his answer. He didn’t seem fit for having the Von Hoffsten circus arrive in on top of him. “Halcyon is doing well.”

“Halcyon.” He said the name as if he had totally forgotten about the horse.

“I haven’t heard a thing from Ireland. Not a letter or anything. But I met Thelma, yesterday in Geneva. She asked to meet me and she told me they are all fine.”

Max suddenly stopped eating and put down his fork.

“Max? What’s wrong?”

He looked at her and his eyes were filled with tears.

“Max?” she reached out and held his hand.

“I’m sorry. I’m not hungry. I just want to sleep.”

“Of course. I’ll take you upstairs.” She went to stand up.

“No. You stay here. I’ll be fine,” he said, rising to his feet.

She watched him walk out and rubbed her temples with her fingertips.

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