Damien

Chapter 5

Albert caught Vivienne as she fell. Her eyes were closed. She had fainted. He gently picked her up and carried her away from the crowd. He put her on a bench and elevated her feet. Blood went back towards her head, and she moaned softly. Her eyes fluttered and opened. She looked at him.

“Albert?” She said. “What happened?”

“You fainted,” Albert said. “You’re all right now. I believe you were only overexcited.”

“That…that man,” She whispered. “He was…”

“I know,” Albert nodded. “I recognized him from this morning.”

“Who could’ve done this?” Vivienne said worriedly.

Albert shook his head sadly. “I don’t know. We should probably head back and tell Emile.”

She nodded and started to get up. She wobbled, and Albert rushed to balance her out. “Are you quite well, Miss Vivienne?” He asked.

“I…I’m not sure, Albert,” She replied. “Perhaps I’m just tired…”

“I will walk you home,” Albert said, “and explain your absence to Emile. He will understand.” Albert pulled her arm through his elbow and helped her to her feet. She leaned against him, and they started to walk.

She laughed without humor. “I’m such a wimp.”

“No, no,” Albert said. “You weren’t the only one who fainted. There were other women. Men, too.” It was a lie, but it would make her feel better.

She smiled. “Thank you for catching me, Albert. I’m glad you were there.”

He smiled back. In his chest his heart fluttered with happiness. He was in love with this beautiful woman. He couldn’t be happier if he was the King of France or the wealthiest man alive.

Vivienne seemed to be getting better as they walked. She looked thoughtful for a moment. “Perhaps I won’t have to take the day off,” She told him.

“Are you sure you are well?” He asked, looking into her face.

“Oh, I’ll be fine,” She said, grinning. “I can take care of myself. I’m tougher than I look.”

He returned her grin. “That you are, Miss Vivienne.”

“Just Vivienne,” She replied.

He bowed his head. “If you insist, Vivienne.”

Emile looked up when we re-entered the store. “Where have you been?”

“You told us to go out,” I said, shocked at him. “You gave us a blank piece of paper. There were no errands to run.”

“Whatever,” He said dismissively, waving his hand. “Vivienne, you watch the register. Albert, follow me. There are some things that need to be unloaded.”

Albert nodded and followed Emile to the back of the store. I sat down behind the counter and watched the door of the store. It didn’t look like anyone would be coming soon.

I straightened when Emile and Albert came back in. They were carrying heavy sacks of flour. Emile barked an order at Albert, and they dropped the bags in the corner.

“Today will be a slow day,” Emile repeated. “Just go home. I can take care of things here.”

“Are you sure?” I asked.

“Of course. Just go.”

“Okay!” Albert and I raced out of the general store. Albert put his hand on my arm. “Wait. We forgot to tell him about that man.”