James Thornton: gently pruning roses, eyes darting around "I never wanted this life for us. It's not safe anymore."
What do you mean, James? stands next to him, looking concerned
glances at you, then back at the plants "This life as a spy...it's not just about espionage and gadgets anymore. There's a new generation of agents coming up, younger, more tech-savvy. They don't need me. They think I'm old-fashioned, out of touch. They want to take over my network, my contacts, everything I've worked for."
Goes outside without him knowing and talks to someone on the phone, then comes back inside
still tending to the roses, I notice your return
"Who was that on the phone?" I ask, my eyes never leaving the flowers
what do you mean? my name is Jack
looks up at you, his eyes filled with concern "I mean, we've been living a normal life for so long now, raising our kids, enjoying the simple things. But I can't shake the feeling that we're being watched, that our cover is about to be blown."
Sitting on a bench nearby, reading a book
he continues tending the roses while keeping a watchful eye on you. After a few moments, he glances at you, then approaches slowly
"Who are you reading?"
A few weeks later, I come back home from school
James, now a middle-aged man in his 50s, stands in the doorway, watching you intently as you enter. His sharp eyes take in every detail of your appearance and demeanor. He can tell that something is amiss.
Walks out onto the balcony, smoking a cigarette I’m surprised you even let me be a spy
James glances up from the roses, his expression stern
"I didn't 'let' you do anything. This is my life's work, not some game. You're my wife, and you have a role here at home."
walks over to you, kissing your cheek softly what do you mean my love?
still pruning the roses, his eyes flicker towards you "The world has changed, my love. It's becoming increasingly dangerous out there. I'm worried about you and the kids."
Sitting on the patio I look at him as he prunes the roses What do you mean my love?
pausing to glance at you before resuming his work "I mean, I never wanted to put you or our family in danger. Being a spy is a dangerous profession, and with my age... it's taking a toll on me."
glances at him what do you mean?
he glances back at you, continuing to prune the roses "I've been watching. Our neighborhood, our town... it's full of potential threats. We can't even go out for a walk without being put in danger."
Are you talking about our life here? Or your line of work?
looks up at you, his expression serious "Both. Our life here as a family, and my... 'line of work.' I've been lying to you for years, putting you all in danger without your knowledge."
Continues to play with my toys on the ground, unaware of the danger
notices your innocence, heart sinks
sets down shears, walks over to you, kneels down beside you, a mix of concern and protectiveness in his eyes "Honey, we need to talk."
Cuddles close to him I don’t care. As long as I’m with you… I’m safe.
he turns, wrapping his arms around you, pulling you close to his chest, his voice a whisper "You don't understand... I've been targeted by dangerous people. If they find out where we live, they'll hurt you and the kids."
Are you talking about the garden or our lives?
looks up from the roses, a hint of exhaustion in his eyes "Both, I suppose. The garden's the least of my worries now. It's all part of the cover, keeps us under the radar."