Rise (Alfie Solomons)

Chapter 16

Alfie couldn't help but dip himself into Shirley whenever he had the chance. When he got home from work, he would toss her on the bed and slide right into her loving crevice. The first few times, it pained her some more, resulting in tears and soreness. However, Alfie was patient and caring when it came to her. He would often kiss her tears and caress her just right, making her giggle and smile again. He could wait for her however long she needed and fought his primal desires to hump away.

Since being married, Alfie insisted it was no longer necessary for her to work at the bakery. Something about it hurting his manhood and pride to allow his wife to work. He would explain to her that her duty was no longer in the bakery and instead at home.

After their wedding night, she completely forgot about her father's letter. Instead of opening it the next day, she opened it almost a week later when Alfie went to work. It read:

Dear, Shirley

I didn't want to break the news to you on your wedding night for fear of spoiling it all. However, circumstances have arisen, and I'm afraid I have no choice. Luca Changretta is in London. Tell Alfie immediately and stay safe. Don't wander about on your own until we have adequately dealt with him.

Love, your pa

The day she read the letter, she was numb for the following hours. She walked about the house in a daze of remembrance of the life she felt behind. For a while, she laid in her bed, thinking of everything he put her through back in New York. Then, when their maid, Agnes, came to ask her a question, she was suddenly knocked back into reality. She never told Alfie about it, even though she should have.  Embarrassment overwhelmed her from seeing the truth.

Shirley decided then that he wouldn't control her life anymore. She got ready for the day, putting on her outfit, tying up her hair in an amethyst-colored scarf, and drinking a cup of coffee. She waved Agnes goodbye and headed out to the store. Driving in England was still something she was trying to get used to accepting, so she walked instead.

On multiple occasions, she tried to get Alfie to teach her, but he was reluctant. He didn't like the idea of her driving on her own in this crazy city. If he hated her driving, he was going to be fuming at the thought of her walking right now.

The stores nearby Margate were gorgeous but limited. They didn't have the same luxuries as in New York, but they did have the necessities, which was all she needed. Shirley chose to shop at a craft store today. With all the extra time she had on her hands, she decided picking up painting would be an excellent choice to pass the time.

One foot in front of the other, she made her way into the store, contemplating what she should buy. She bought everything she could carry back with her: a few medium-sized canvases, brushes, a wide variety of paint, an apron, and a palette. She would come back for the easel later. It was too much for her to carry home.

After she paid and left the store, making her way back home, her heart nearly dropped to her stomach when she heard a voice she hoped would never cross her ears again. For a moment, she slowed down and turned around, hoping she was wrong, but when she saw that olive skin tone, slim body, and a familiar face, she booked it back to her house.

By the time she made it back, she was shaking, and her arms were sore from carrying the canvases. Immediately, she dropped her bags on the table and ran upstairs.

A knock on her door nearly sent her soul flying from her body. Nervously, she opened the door only to see Agnes's face. Relieved, she let out a sigh.

"Is everything alright? You came in so quickly I didn't get to ask you what you wanted for lunch."