The Nostradamus File

CHAPTER FIFTY-SIX

It was a day full of sunshine in the New City of Jerusalem, a perfect contrast to Ari Herzog's dark mood. He waited for Rachel Gefen to open the door. He'd brought a woman with him, another Shin Bet agent. He thought it would be good to have a woman along when he told Rachel of her husband's death. Lev had been a friend. Ari and Lev and Rachel had shared good times together. Ari felt that he had to be the one to tell her, but he wasn't looking forward to it.

Rachel opened the door. She was a handsome woman, not exactly beautiful, with strong, square features that spoke of her Polish ancestors. Her hair was her best feature, dark and lustrous, falling to her shoulders.

"Ari." Rachel was surprised. "What brings you here this time of day?"

"Are the children here, Rachel?"

"No, they're in school. Who is this with you?"

Ari looked at his companion. "This is Rebecca."

"Our daughter is named Rebecca." She looked at him. Something passed over her face. The warmth of seeing him went out of it.

"It's Lev. You're here about Lev, aren't you? Why isn't he with you?"

"Rachel…"

"Why isn't he with you?" Her voice rose.

"Can I come in?"

"No. Where's Lev, Ari?"

"I'm sorry, Rachel."

"I won't hear this. I do not want to hear you say you're sorry. Where is Lev?"

There wasn't any way to make it easy. "The chevra kaddisha is with him."

The holy society was a group of unpaid volunteers who prepared the body for burial.

Rachel's hand flew to her face. A loud wail came from her throat. Ari stood helpless, unable to do anything for the wife of his friend. Rachel leaned against the door and began sobbing.

"Rachel…" he said.

Rebecca put a hand on his arm. "Let me, Ari." She went to Lev's wife. "Come," she said. "Let's go inside."

Ari watched the door close behind them.