Chapter 6

Waiting for the storm

Nora

After closing the bathroom door, I walked straight ahead. When I had just passed him, he grabbed my arm and pushed me against the wall. Putting his face in front of mine, he drew me into a corner with his arms. He pressed his forehead to mine, and I could hear that his breathing was heavy. And between teeth, he said to me, “I’m sick of you and your tantrums. You’re going to act as my wife for the rest of the afternoon and when we get home. You will go straight to the basement.” Those words fell on me like ice water. I expected it, my fear always came true with this man. If he was going to lock me up anyway, then I wouldn’t have to play anymore.

So I pushed him away with all my might, far from me. “Don’t you dare to touch me again with your disgusting hands. Your hands are filthy and smell like a prostitute’s vagina.” Without waiting for his reply, I headed for the exit, not before grabbing my handbag that was on a hanger by the entry. Opened the door, I went out. I ran to the street, and once I was on the avenue, I stopped a taxi. I told the driver where to go, and he drove off. Not only that, but I didn’t bother to turn to see if someone was behind me. Of course, I did not go to Erik’s house, but rather instructed the driver to take me to the mall away from this area. From what I knew, these would be the last hours that I would enjoy my freedom for I don’t know how long, before being thrown in the basement for a while.

I tried to forget what happened and enjoy my time without him, so I went shopping. From store to store, I bought what I wanted. Then I went to the cinema and bought a ticket. I got a giant bucket of popcorn and a few sweets. I haven’t enjoyed something like that for a long time. When the film ended, it was already late. I called a taxi and gave him the address. It took us an hour to get to his house. Meanwhile, all the way, I tried to convince myself that I was strong. And whatever Erik does to me would be nothing he hadn’t done before. But the truth is that I was trembling with fear. That man is very violent. And when it comes to me, more. I do not understand at what time he started this development of such unhealthy jealousy. He’s the one who betrays our marriage, not me. But maybe it’s his way of diverting attention from him and putting it on me.

Sadly, the trip came to an end. Upon arriving at the entrance gate, the taxi stopped. It was fine for him to leave me here, I told the driver. When I got out of the taxi, the driver helped me unload my purchases and lay them on the floor. Then, I opened my handbag and paid him. Taking a deep breath, I grabbed my bags and headed to the slaughterhouse. Arriving at the door, I put my purchases on the floor to get the keys out of my handbag. But before I could reach in. The door was thrown open. My eyes widened in surprise, and I jumped back in shock. But Erik grabbed my hair, pulling me inside.