Read Online Necessary Heartbreak by Michael J. Sullivan - Free Book Online Page A

new round of fresh tears. “Can you help me? Please?”
    The woman glanced back at the tunnel’s entrance. She hesitated a moment, then turned back to Elizabeth and nodded. “I’ll try to help you in any way I can.”
    Elizabeth let out a sigh of relief. “Thank you.” She paused, then smiled uncomfortably. “You know, um . . .”
    â€œI am Leah. And you are Elizabeth? Did your father not speak of me?”
    Elizabeth shook her head, puzzled, yet certain that this woman must have heard her father call her by name earlier.
    â€œElizabeth, let me get you something to eat and drink. Then we can discuss what we should do.” Leah reached out her hand in a display of friendship, and Elizabeth took it with some apprehension. They started toward the fruit stand across the street.
    â€œWhat kind of a place is it where my father is being held?”
    â€œIt’s a place where they hold people before they are put on trial. And there are many soldiers.”
    They both stopped walking. The breeze picked up slightly; even though it relieved some of the heat that had bothered Elizabeth only moments ago, it had a chilling effect. She turned around resolutely and began walking back. Leah followed behind. She noticed that Elizabeth was looking up at the sky and then putting her hands to her eyes.
    â€œOh dear,” Leah said, walking quickly alongside the teenager. She wrapped her arm gently around her shoulders, but Elizabeth pulled away.
    â€œI’m sorry.”
    â€œWhat are you sorry for?”
    â€œIt’s all my fault,” said Elizabeth, her eyes red.
    â€œIt’s not your fault. You were only trying to help someone in need.”
    â€œBut if I hadn’t gone into the tunnel . . . and if I didn’t run out to help that man . . .”
    Leah patted Elizabeth’s back reassuringly. “Come with me. Let’s get something to drink and eat. You’ll feel better.”
    â€œNo.”
    Leah frowned. “I’ll take you to the prison. Then perhaps we can find out more about your father. But first, why don’t we get you something to drink.”
    She guided them to a nearby well, where she cupped the water in her hands.
    Elizabeth pulled back in disgust. “Aren’t there any cups or anything? My hands are really dirty.”
    â€œYou can rinse them first.”
    Elizabeth peered at the water. It looked cloudy. “You drink this?” she asked doubtfully.
    â€œWhat else is there?”
    Elizabeth hurriedly poured some water on her hands, hoping that it would wash away the dusty grime. Even though it was warm, she was overcome with thirst.
Oh, well
, she thought. She gathered the water in a tight clench and downed it in three quick gulps.
    Leah grinned. “My, you were thirsty. Do you want something to eat?”
    Elizabeth scanned the many marketplace storefronts. She spotted a stand selling what looked like miniature watermelons. “That looks interesting,” she said halfheartedly.
    Leah smiled. “Let’s go.”
    It was only a few yards across the street. A woman had just bought a piece for a little girl, who giggled while taking her first bite. Elizabeth was ecstatic to see that it was indeed her favorite summertime fruit. Leah handed the vendor a couple of coins and bowed. Elizabethbowed, too. She munched heartily and quickly finished off the large piece as Leah watched in delight. “You were hungry, too,” she said with a faint smile. “Would you like another piece?”
    Elizabeth shook her head and wiped her mouth. “No, I’m fine now, thank you.”
    Leah adjusted her veil slightly, covering more of her face. Elizabeth did the same.
    â€œOur path to the prison is not a safe one. You must stay close to me and keep your head down. Do you understand me?”
    Elizabeth nodded as Leah began to lead the way again through the labyrinthine streets. The older woman seemed anxious. When