The Punishment (2)

"Reef!" Bella replied in a voice trembling with nervousness.

"Yes, it's me. Can I come in?"

"Wait," Bella said. "I mean, can you wait a minute?"

"Are you afraid of me, Bella? I promise I won't get angry. I just want to talk."

"No, no. That's not it!" Bella looked behind her back. Hoping Carter didn't emerge from the kitchen because she was taking too long. "Reef, please. Wait a minute. I'm cooking. I'll open the door later."

Bella rushed back into the kitchen and found Carter still peeling potatoes. "Who is that?" asked Carter. "Why don't you open the door?"

"Carter..." Bella swallowed. "Can I ask you a favor? Just this once. Please?"

"What is it?" Carter stops peeling. His brow furrowed as he looked at Bella. "What do you want to ask me for?"

Bella reaches out her hand, touching Carter's arm. "Please don't ask. I'll explain later. But you have to hide now. Please Carter."