Chapter 49 - The Last Bit (4)

Vivienne spotted a pay phone and dialled the well-remembered number of the only man she had ever loved.

"Firdaus Rana Mehta."

"Hello, darling," she wheezed. "You still sound as good as you did the day I met you."

"Vivienne! Where are you? Are you all right?"

"The children are safe," she whispered. "They are lovely children, darling, just like you. I love them so much. I love you so much." She spoke rapidly, wanting to finish her thoughts before her breath gave out.

"Vivienne, hang on, I am tracking you. I will find you. Don't let go, cherie."

He still sounds like an angel, Vivienne thought.

"Vivienne?! Are you there?"

"Jagadhaatreyi is a good woman, darling." She coughed up blood. "I am glad I leave you in good hands."

"Stay with me, stay awake," Firdaus begged.

"I am so proud of you. Tell the children I am so proud of them, and that I love them." She could barely get the words out now.