The Promise

Chapter 10

Chapter 10.

August 1937
Amsterdam, Holland.

There was a small coffee shop at the end of the street. It was cozy, quaint little place with large windows and round wooden tables. Sitting by one of the outside tables, sketchbook in hand, was Erik. The pencil in between his fingers was busy scratching away the scenery of the cobblestone street and the houses that aligned it.

Two hands suddenly covered his eyes, causing him to pause his work.

"Guess who."

"A little mischievous kitten."

Ruth laughed and removed her hands. She popped her head around and planted a soft kiss on Erik's lips. She then sat down opposite him.

"Having you been waiting long?"

"I'm not sure, actually," he replied with laugh. "I got lost in the artwork and never noticed the passing time."

"That's good. I got held up at home. Mother brought in visitors again."

"At this rate you'll be personally acquainted with all the bachelors of the Amsterdam Jewish community." Erik said this with a laugh but there was a hint of bitterness in his voice. There was no doubting the fact that Ruth was becoming a beautiful young woman. Today she wore a soft white dress with green flowers on it and a white and green matching hat. Her curly hair had been tamed with the help of multiple pins and was twisted in an elegant bun. She hadn't applied very much make-up, just enough to bring out her enchanting facial features.

"No doubt the boys her mother invites are falling over themselves trying to get her attention," Erik mused as he fought to keep his jealousy under control.

Ruth had rolled her eyes at his statement. She obviously did not care for all those bachelors. Thank goodness for that.

"Come on, let's go for a walk," she said, jumping up and pulling at his arm. "It's a beautiful day and we must make the most of it."

Erik smiled and tucking his pencils and his sketchbooks away, he rose. Ruth clung to his arm with both of hers. They stepped out into the street and strolled down it.

"I was very sorry to hear about your mother's passing," Ruth said after a few moments of silence.

Erik let out a sigh as he gazed off into the distance. "She was in so much pain the last two months, it was almost a relief when she passed away, ashamed as I am to admit it. At least her suffering is over. It's been three months now. Johanna never even came for the funeral, neither did Father. Fritz showed up his new wife and daughter. At least he has some respect for the woman who birthed him. Unlike that cold hearted sister of mine."

Ruth squeezed his hand and there was a sort of helpless look in her eyes. He smiled and pinched her cheek. "Don't worry, I'm alright. I'll admit it was very hard at first but life has to go on. Oma was worried about me and suggested I spend some time away from home to sort of let the memories rest."

Ruth's eyes lit up. "So how long will you be here?"

"Two weeks."

She squealed with delight and he had to laugh.

"You're still such a baby at times."

"Yeah, well you like me the way I am," She retorted, a proud grin on her face.

They walked silently for a while, enjoying the late summer afternoon.

"What do you suppose happens to people after they die?" Erik suddenly spoke up.

Ruth paused before answering. "I think that depends on who you ask," she said at. "Each religion seems to have their own idea.  I like to believe that we will end up in heaven with God in the end."