The Incubus

Chapter 1, Scene 10

'I'm sorry,' Rebecca said weakly as Justin covered her with blankets. 'I'm sorry that I ruined our anniversary.'

'Nonsense,' Justin said. He leaned forward and kissed her softly on the forehead. 'It could have happened to anybody, and besides, it doesn't matter what we do as long as we're together, right?' He tried to comfort her, but didn't know if she registered anything he told her. 'It's not the location that matters. It's being with you.'

Rebecca forced a faint smile and closed her eyes.

For a brief moment the thought of losing her crossed Justin's mind. He shuddered and blocked out the idea. 'Would you like something to eat, Becky?' he asked. She managed a faint nod. 'Maybe a nice cup of tea?' Another nod. 'I'll be right back, baby,' he said and left the room. On his way to the kitchen something felt out of place. He couldn't figure out what it was at first, but soon realized that it was the study door. It was open. Justin had a "house rule" that the study door should be closed at all times. It was mainly to keep his "work area" separate from the rest of the apartment, but also because the room only had a lace curtain that people could see through when the lights were on at night. He didn't like the idea of outsiders being able to look right into their home, and he insisted on having the door closed until they could afford decent curtains. Could be the wind, he thought and closed the door. He then made some toast and a cup of tea for his wife.