STONES OF FIRE

By Tessa Harvey

CHAPTER EIGHT

(Continued)

When Robert came  to see his mum, Clive Neilson had a hand his shoulder, gripping the boy encouragingly. His mum was sat on a hospital bed.

Diane reassured the horrified boy. "I'm coming home later today. Chin up. I love you." 

Robert moved forward to carefully hug his mum, roughly swiping his tears with his sleeve. She tried to smile. "Thanks, Mr. Neilson."

"Clive," he responded softly.

He asked Robert to get some drinks for them, slipping him enough money for cake or sandwiches.

"It probably isn't the right time, but I'm very fond of you, Diane. You must have noticed. I admire you and respect you and would like to visit sometimes if I may when all this has settled down."

Diane looked at him. She did like him very much. "I'm getting a divorce," she whispered. "The lawyer said there are grounds for desertion. Also I will not allow myself or my son to go back to suffering violence. When Walt has gone, you are welcome to call."

Just then the police came in, a woman and a man.

"Can you give us a clear description of your husband? they asked. "We believe he has just robbed somebody and also assaulted a person."

Diane went even paler. "Oh no!" she whispered.