Page 34 of Conviction

“You in the pub?” he asks.

“Wine bar actually.”

“Lucky thing, could do with a drink myself. Hope it’s somewhere nice?”

“Yeah, it’s not bad. Just a little place across from where we live.”

“Well, enjoy. Just wanted you to know that Mr Newman should receive the divorce petition either today or by Monday morning. The court sent the papers out last night, directly to his office address as per your instructions.”

My eyes are on Marcus, he knocks back the drink he’s just ordered, turns around and looks right at me.

“Shit,” I say into the phone.

“Nina? Is there a problem? Please don’t tell me you’ve changed your—”

“No, no. He’s here! He’s just walked in. He never comes here.”

“Fuck. Are you with someone? Nina? Are you safe? If he starts any trouble, call the police.”

Marcus takes about four steps toward me, his face expressionless, his glare icy cold. He then diverts and heads toward the men’s toilets.

“Nina, answer me for fuck’s sake.”

“I… he… he ignored me. He looked at me but didn’t acknowledge me.”

“Who are you with?”

“I’m with Sophie and a couple of our salon managers.”

“Right, listen to me. If he’s received the petition and now turning up where you drink, I would consider that intimidation. If he tries to talk to you, make sure you have witnesses. Don’t let him get you anywhere alone.”

“Okay?”

“I wish I were nearer, I’d call in for a drink myself.”

“It’s all good, the girls won’t let anything happen to me.”

I look around the table as Sophie is telling a story about a blowjob she gave a bloke who’s just walked in, he blew all over her tits and ruined her Chanel blouse. I’ve heard the story a dozen times, but everyone else is listening intently, and they’re all oblivious to the fact that my husband is here, accompanied by my brother.

“Have a good weekend, Nina. Stay safe, and I’ll be in touch next week.”

“You too, Nate.”

Nate? Shit, where the fuck did that come from? Sophie’s head swings around as she catches on to who I’m talking to. She makes an O shape with her mouth and picks up a wine bottle, pretending to suck it off. I know Nathaniel can’t see any of this, but my cheeks are on fire, regardless.

“Oh, and Nina?”

“Yeah?”

“If that little prick causes you any problems, don’t hesitate to call me, you hear?”

“Thanks, I won’t.”

“You won’t?”

“I will.”

Shit!