Downtown Toronto
Malcolm Clark and Judith Abramson rode the elevator of the 'New Belvedere Tower' together. "Our man doesn't live in poverty," was Malcolm's first comment as they reached the penthouse. The atrium was small, floored with pale pink ceramic tiles. Two bronze statues flanked the only door to Kevin's residence, with one a reproduction of Rodin's Thinker and the other, Cellini's Perseo. The door stood ajar. Malcolm and Judith were expected and had been let into the elevator by Kevin.
"You're right. Mr. Matwin has very nice living quarters," Judith said. She wore a sleeveless pale blue dress, its soft fabric flattering her model-perfect figure. "Do you think that Tanya will come with us?"
"I hope so. In my opinion, she should feel more protected by staying with you than in this place. But, of course, we have to convince her of that." Malcolm sighed. It was a big sigh. "Knowing the girl, that isn't going to be easy."
"Hello," Malcolm said as they entered. "Hello," he repeated, louder.
"We're on the balcony," Kevin shouted. "Please come in." Elegant in his dove-grey trousers and matching T-shirt, Kevin welcomed his guests.
"Come look at the wonderful view," Tanya said with enthusiasm. She was still in Kevin's blue housecoat. "You can see the harbor, how big it is, and the little island in front of the city." She turned toward them. "Hi, Malcolm," she said. She hugged Judith and kissed her on her cheeks. "Hello, stranger. Nice to see you again. I've missed you for these past months." She whirled around. "I'll go get dressed. My clothes should be dry by now."
When she returned, Malcolm, Kevin, and Judith were all sitting in the living room. "Look at me!" Tanya said. "All nice and clean. All in one piece." She pirouetted like a ballerina. "And a-li-ve!" she sang. No one reacted to her show. No one said a single word. "What's the problem?" she asked, still full of cheer. "My best friends are all here, but everybody looks sad. What's the reason?"
Kevin's expression showed love and anxiety. "They came to take you away from me," he said. His tone conveyed even more concern than his face.
"To take me away? Why? Where to?" Tanya stood in front of Malcolm.
"Tanya, I strongly suggest that you go to stay with Judith," he said. "For protection."