Marta pouted a little as Ezra cleaned her off and teasingly scolded her like a child. Truth was, she was probably making more of a mess than a child ever would. She let Ezra get all the flour off of her face, but her hair and dress were a hopeless case at this moment, getting it all out would require a good shake, but Marta didn’t want to make more of a mess, so she tried to keep the flour on her instead of the ground.

Determined to finish and not continue to destroy everything, Marta went back to the counter and began rolling out the dough. When it seemed to be the thickness she remembered reading on the recipe, she began to cut out the cookies. She decided to use her hand a guide, it made the most logical sense and it seemed to create the perfect size cookie, at least in her opinion. Once all the dough was cut into triangles, like Ezra said, she placed the cut-outs on the baking sheet. She then carefully scooped the filling Ezra finished for her onto each cookie and rubbed the egg wash onto the edges. Then she carefully folded each one into a triangle, a little frustrating at first, and some definitely came out more square shaped then triangle, but when she was finished she stood back, pretty proud of herself. For someone who has never backed, she felt she did very well, but the real test came when it was time to eat them.

Carefully lifting in the tray, not wanting to drop them, she walked over and slid them into the oven. She looked up at the clock to see what time it was, half past two in the afternoon. Once she determined when she would take the cookies out, she began helping Ezra clean up. She took the dirty dishes over to the sink and scrubbed them as good as she could. By the time they had everything cleaned up, Marta included who went out into the back behind the building and tried shaking as much of the flour off of her, the cookies were done.

She couldn’t help her excitement as she pulled them out, they weren’t burned, but a nice golden color. It took all her strength not to grab one and eat it right away, lest she wanted to burn her mouth. She looked up at Ezra, a huge grin on her face.

“Well how did I do?” she asked, bubbling with excitement. She had to remind herself she was a 17 year old lady who did not bounce around with joy like a child, even though she really wanted to.

Ezra put the cookies onto a plate and took her arm to lead her out the back door. "Let's get cleaned up first and then we'll try them. They need to cool down or you won't be able to enjoy them," he said sternly as he led up the steps. He motioned for her to be a little quiet since now was around the time his parents took small naps. He placed the cookies on the counter in the kitchen and led her to the bathroom. "By the time you get showered my parents will have woken and my mother will put a fresh dress in here for you."

He passed her the towel she had used yesterday and closed the door. He went back to the living room and and began to boil water for himself. Ezra usually refused to bathe in the bath tub unless his parents were away for the weekend. It only held so much hot water and he preferred his parents to use it. He brought the bucket from his parents bedroom and hid it behind the wall separating the kitchen from the small dining area and began to clean himself off. He figured by the time Marta finished he'd already be dressed and done. Girls tended to take longer in the bathroom.

He was in the process of cleaning himself when he heard some shuffling feet and looked up to his mother and father staring at him a bit confused. "Marta is in the bathroom. I hope you don't mind. I told her you'd lay out some clothes for her," he said sheepishly.

"Ezra, you were attacked earlier! I have no doubts it was because of this girl. The neighbors saw you too kissing yesterday! You can't be doing that Ezra! You are promised to another girl!" His mother was doing her best to keep her voice low. She gave a dramatic sigh and went to the bedroom to lay out clothes.

"Pa! You told her I was attacked?!" Ezra said folding his arms across his chest annoyed.

His father was next to speak, "I know you told me you you did it to yourself, but I know you son. You would not have lost that necklace by yourself," he said with a roll of the eyes, "you watch yourself with that girl, Ezra. Christian girls like her can cost you your life son. I don't want you dying before me."

Ezra frowned a little as he sat in the water a little upset. He'd always been careful with his actions, never acted out once, but the one time he went out of line his parents seemed to be on his case. He finished bathing himself and then grabbed the towel he had hanging on the chair. He'd finish getting dressed in the bedroom.

Marta frowned a little when Ezra said she had to wait to try the cookies. She can be very impatient when she wants to be, but she let out a sigh and let Ezra guide her up the stairs. When they entered the little house, Marta felt a weird mixture of emotions. It is hard to believe she was here less than 24 hours ago. She tried not to remember how events transpired when she left here last night, and how there was much Marta and Ezra needed to talk about, but for now she tried to just enjoy being in Ezra’s life. To her, the size of his did not matter. True, their entire apartment could fit in Marta’s kitchen, but it feels more warm and welcoming than her house ever has.

She let Ezra usher her into the bathroom, handing her a towel and telling her he’d have her mom get her a dress. She nodded her head, reaching over to kiss Ezra a smell peck on the cheek, before disappearing into the bathroom. Once in, she decided to undress inside the tub, in case there was any flour left on her. Once she was stripped, she turned the water on and again, only filled the tub about halfway. She sat down and this time made sure to rinse her hair because it had be coated in flour. As she was scrubbing her body, she looked down at her stomach and frowned where there was already a large purple and blue bruise on her stomach from where Oscar punched her. Marta had been having so much fun with Ezra baking, so honestly forgot about it. But now she was noticing a dull ache was beginning to form again.

Letting out a sigh, she finished rinsing when there was a quiet knock on the door.

“Yes?” she called out softly.

“Marta I have a dress for you in my bedroom when you are ready” said Edith’s mom.

“Thank you.”

Marta stood from the tub and grabbed her towel drying herself off. She paused a moment. Why did Edith’s mom not bring her a dress like last night? Was she upset she is borrowing yet another dress? Marta returned the first one! And she was surprised Edith’s mom would have her leave the bathroom in only a towel, but maybe she was just tired and not thinking clearly.

So Martha opened the door and peeked out and heard voices in the kitchen. Sounds like they were all in the other room, so Marta tiptoed out and snuck over to the bedroom, opening the door quietly. She walked in, turning and facing the door to make sure she closed it without slamming. She noticed right away there was a dress on the back off the door. Marta was completely unaware of who else was in there with her. She let her towel drop to the floor, when she heard a gasp.

Jumping, Marta turned around, and her eyes instantly landed on Ezra. Marta standing there completely naked from head to toe, every inch of her skin showing, was frozen for a moment. She has never been naked in front of another person, except her mother and nannies, and that was when she was much younger. It took a good 15-20 seconds before Marta finally snapped back to reality and reached down and grabbed her towel.

Marta finally processing what happened, also noticed for the first time all Ezra had on was his pants, leaving his top fully exposed. It was the first time she has seen his scars. She felt them, but seeing them was completely different. It made her frown, but she knew they were a touchy subject with Ezra so she quickly acted like she didn’t see and covered her eyes with her hands.

“Your mom...she said there was a dress I could wear in here...I should have knocked.” she said, still unsure of whether she should leave or just continue to stand there like an awkward person.

Ezra buttoned up his jeans quietly so he could listen to his mother and father in the living room. He'd decided on a pair of simple blue jeans in case he needed to run anywhere for dinner after his parents left. They were going on a small vacation to visit family that was getting married and Ezra was in charge of the shop after school hours. It would be a tough week, but he'd managed to save enough money to treat himself a couple times to something other than bakery food. He hadn't heard the door close and when he turned around his mouth dropped.

He wasn't sure what he'd expected from the body of a women, but to see it right in front of him was surprising in itself. He quickly put a hand over his eyes and the swastika scar turning himself back around. Since his accident he was too ashamed to let anyone see him shirtless. His father was the only person he trusted enough to look pass his wounds. His mom hadn't even see the scars so for him to expose himself that way made him more than uncomfortable.

"I...I thought you had...I didn't realize. I...I'll keep myself turned...you...you get dressed and I won't look," he said trying to find the words. "I thought she would bring you the clothes..."

"I thought she would too" Marta said softly as she quickly grabbed the dress and stepped into it, zipping it up the side. Once she was sure she was fully covered, she stood there awkwardly for a second. What was she suppose to do now? She figured Ezra would want her to leave so he could finish getting dressed, but Marta seemed frozen in place. She saw how quickly Ezra was to cover his scars. Marta wished she could let him now it didn't bother her, at least not in the way he thought. She knew they were placed on his body unwillingly, and how much of a painful reminder they are to him. She wished there was a way to take them away, but she can't, so the next best thing is to try and show him that it didn't bother her.

Taking a risk, Marta quietly walked over to Ezra, stepping around him so she was facing him. She reached up and grabbed the hand that was covering his eyes and smiled gently at him. She then stepped closer, letting him keep his hand on the scar, and wrapped her arms around his neck. She held him tightly for a moment, not wanting to upset, and pulled back. When she pulled back, she made sure to look him straight in the eyes so he knew she wasn't looking at the scar. Marta hoped ignoring the scars would go over better than drawing attention to them.

"Hurry up. I want to try my cookies" she said, a goofy grin on her face. She then stepped away and turned and left the room. She walked into the living room, Ezra's parents still talking in the kitchen. She didn't want to intrude, so she just looked around.

In all the chaos last night, and keeping Ezra calm, Marta didn't get to do what she likes to do in new place. Explore. Looking around the small room she took it all in. There was the couch that she held Ezra in last night, a small fire place in the center with some framed photos on the mantel. Off the side of the fireplace there was pile of pillows and blankets on the floor. Marta couldn't help but frown, that must be where Ezra slept. Then she looked over to the far left corner and saw for the first time, a small upright piano, which looked like it hadn't been touched in ages. There were some baskets on top holding random knickknacks. Marta is always drawn to a piano.

She walked over, and pulled the bench out. She ran her hands over the cover, a thin layer of dust on it. This piano was very small to the grand piano she had in her house. But it didn't matter its size, a piano is a magical thing. She lifted the cover, which squeaked a little, and the ivory keys appeared before her. She smiled, placing her hands on the keys, but didn't play. She didn't want to be rude, so for now, she just enjoyed being near the thing that has been so important to her her entire life.

*SPONGEBOB NARRATOR VOICE: TWO WEEKS LATER*

Ezra was making his way down to the sidewalk to one of the customers house holding a box of fresh bread and some lunch meat on the house. This guy had been the first customer his family ever had so they treated him like family. If it hadn't been for his raving review of their bakery their name would have never gotten out to the other towns. He walked up the stoop leading to the door and knocked lightly. It took a little bit before Jeremiah answered the door.

"Good evening, sir. Pa and Ma send their regards. The shop is a little busy today, which is why I cam instead," Ezra said with a smile as he walked into the mans house and placed the items on the small table.

Jeremiah nodded, "It's okay boy. I enjoy seeing you. It seems like just yesterday you were only this high," he said gesturing a couple inches above his knee.

Ezra laughed. Jeremiah was like an uncle to him. He'd played with his own children back when he was growing up, but they were older than Ezra so they'd been long gone by now. He'd seem them every once in a while during holidays but Jeremiah lived mostly by himself. Ezra gave a nod and collected the money, a little extra than normal. Jeremiah was always a guy to tip no matter how little he had. With a wave goodbye Ezra began the 30 minute walk to meet Marta.

Atalia was standing by a bench just outside of their neighborhood. Her dark brown hair went down her back tied up in a braid with little whisp of hair framing her face. Her brown eyes were fierce as she looked at her small watch waiting for Marta to show up. This was usually where she met Ezra, but today he had an errand to run so Marta would be waiting a little bit longer. Just thinking the name made Atalia angry. Ezra had been promised to her, and she wouldn't let some rich Christian girl take him away. Since they were kids they'd been groomed for each other.

She saw the other girl looming in the distance and she stood tall as her light blue dress blew slightly in the wind. "Marta!" she called with a small smile. She'd be nice first, but she wouldn't keep it up if the girl didn't understand. She had no idea of their life or their religion. You couldn't just go back on an arrangement, especially with her family.

Marta hopped off the bus when it reached her destination. It was the same spot she has been meeting Ezra for the past week and a half. Over that period of time, Marta and Ezra have become closer, but they had to continue to be cautious. After the night that they baked Marta's first ever cookies, which came out pretty decent considering, Marta had spent the night. Ezra's mother said it was ok, but when they awoke in the morning, Marta could feel the tension in the room. Marta suddenly didn't feel very welcomed. Ezra, being blunt like tended to be, said his parents were not comfortable at all with what happened. Marta worried it meant it had to end, but Ezra said they would find a way.

So after that day, Marta did not just show up at the bakery. They agreed on a place to meet. It had to be far enough away from her side of town too. So they agreed on meeting on the outskirts of town, right before the border with the next city over. There was a small bookstore with a bench outside where they met everyday. From there, they would either sit and talk on that bench, or if they felt too out in the open, they would go into the bookstore and read together or talk quietly in there. Sometimes they would share kisses behind the shelves in the back. Marta was learning more and more about the Jewish culture everyday, and understanding what it means to be Jewish. Some days, if Ezra was certain his parents would be out of the bakery, they would sneak in and bake something together. Marta was becoming more and more familiar around a kitchen.

It was almost half past three in the afternoon. Marta and Ezra were to meet soon. They never made plans of what they were going to do, just when they would meet. As Marta hopped off the bus, she started to walk over to their bench. She knew she was early, the way the bus schedule ran, she tended to be earlier than Ezra. But she didn't mind. She would take the time to sit and read her copy of the Torah that Ezra loaned her. At least attempt to. Ezra was teaching her Hebrew, but it was difficult to learn a new language, but with Marta's photogenic memory, she picked it up fairly quickly. However, it appeared she wouldn't be getting much reading done, because as she walked towards the bench, she saw a girl standing there, waving at her and calling out her name.

Marta scrambled in her mind to remember the girl's name. Ezra and her had run into last week as they were walking into the bakery. The way she spoke and looked at Ezra made Marta very uncomfortable. Marta and Ezra never really discussed what their relationship was. Marta's feeling have not changed, and only have grown stronger, but they tend to avoid the "L" word. They do still share kisses and tender touches, but really they just enjoy having each other around. Ezra's presence calmed Marta, made her feel safe and warmed. And she hoped she did the same for him. So when this girl acted like Ezra was her's, Marta felt the green eye of jealousy flair a little, but she contained it. Ezra never mentioned that he was suppose to marry this girl, he just told her that his family and her's were very close.

As Marta got closer, the girl's named popped into her head. "Hi Atalia, how are you?" she asked kindly.

"I am well. Have you seen Ezra?" she asked.

"He should be along shortly." Marta said, feeling very awkward and a little frustrated. What did this girl want with Ezra?

Atalia nodded, "I see. I heard he was delivering today because the bakery picked up a little, but I thought he'd care enough to give you notice," she said with a little sigh as she gave Marta a look of sympathy, "Did he tell you about the dinner he attended at my house the other night? I surprised him with his favorite dishes. We ended up making the dessert together though. Nobody makes pastries as good as him. Although he denies it and says Abe is the mast baker of their family."

After a moment of silence and tension between the girls Atalia let out a breath. She crossed her arms over her chest and looked between the floor and Marta. "He's probably too nice to tell you this, but since you've come around...his life has become rather difficult. He's been ignoring the teachings and his friends...well they're all too scared to even talk to him. It seems whenever you come around whispers come out into the streets. We all know you'll be the death of him, Marta. His parents constantly call mine to discuss, and assure them the arrangement set up back when him and I were children is still solid. They say he's just being a little rebellious, but at a time like this do you really think that's such a good idea? We've lost multiple members of our community in this last week due to Hitler, do you really want Ezra to be another causality?" She shook her head a little and turned on her heals to walk away, but then stopped. "He was promised to me, Marta. It would be in your best interest to let him live out the rest of his teenager years without any more conflict. You weren't there when his blood was spilling on the pavement by the hand of your friends brother. I was there staining the brand new dress he'd just bought me." Without another word or staying to hear Marta's response, Atalia crossed the street and headed back into her neighborhood.

Ezra was nearing the bench when he passed by Atalia. He waved at her and she flashed him a charming smile. The two of them stop quickly to speak, Ezra's hand reaching for hers as she appeared to cry a little. His face fell as she told him the news of her father's passing. He'd been taken three days ago by some of Hitler's men, and they assured her family he'd be home again, but the only thing they got back was the bloody Star of David. Atalia clung onto Ezra as he rubbed her back whispering words softly in her ear. His heart began to ache for Atalia. He gave her a small kiss on the top of her head and she gave him one on the cheek in return. He offered to walk her back home, but she declined and he looked up to where she was pointing to see Marta. He gave her another hug, tighter than before and then let her go on her way. He watched her leave as his thoughts began to swarm with rage and sadness. He was 7th one this week from their neighborhood to have lost his life.

Marta felt a knot forming in her stomach. She hated the words that were coming from Atalia's mouth. They were the words and thoughts that Marta pushed into the back of her mind. They were the words Ezra said every moment the first day they met. But Marta made herself ignore them, and in result, Ezra has begun to do the same. She brought them both into her imaginary world fill with rainbows and candy. Marta thought everything was going to turn out ok, but Atalia just brought her slamming back down into reality. Marta couldn't say anything, she honestly felt she was going to be sick. She didn't fight against Atalia's words because deep down she knew they were true.

She watched as the girl walked off, and seeing Ezra come towards them. When the two began to speak to each other, Marta saw the care in Ezra's eyes and body language. He was a caring man, and Marta loved that quality about him, but this time seeing it made Marta want to scream. When he hugged, Marta couldn't take it, she sat down on the bench, her head pounding. Why did she let things get this far? What has she done to Ezra? She looked over again, and the guilty weighed so heavily on her. Ezra needed to be with Atalia. Not just because it was planned from their childhood, but they were the best for each other. They knew what the other was going through and could be there for each other. They would be able to get married and understand the traditions that meant. They would have children and be able to raise them Jewish easily. Marta was doing her best to learn something that a Jewish person learns throughout their entire life. Cramming 17 years of knowledge and believes into your mind can be overwhelming. Marta has enjoyed the things she learned, and she would continue to pursue it, but maybe she needed a different teacher.

When Ezra came over to her, she could see the anger in his eyes. She is assuming whatever he and Atalia spoke about had to do with the recent deaths in their neighborhood. Marta hated that every night she got to go home to her safe, warm house, when Ezra and his family were at risk. Marta had nightmares of the gestapo raided his house, for no reason, and taking Ezra from his bed and killing him.

Once Ezra was seated next to her, she looked at him and tried to smile, but it was too hard. She wasn't sure what to say or what to do. So for now, she settled with taking his hand into hers delicately. Why couldn't they just run away and be together somewhere safe? They could start a new life for themselves. Ezra would continue to teach her the ways of Judaism, and they would build a home together, and maybe one day fill it with children. But Marta knew that that was impossible. Ezra may care for her, he may even love her, but his devotion to his family and his people was everlasting. Marta didn't want to take him away from that and she couldn't. She knew if she asked, Ezra may say yes, but she wouldn't do that to him.

"I think...." she started to say, but paused. "Ezra, I think it best if we stop seeing one another."

Marta didn't know how he would react. Would he be relieved? Would he be angry? Would he cry? Would he tell her she is crazy for putting him through all of this just to end it? That is most likely what would happen, and Marta knows what damage she has caused is irreversible, but she couldn't bare knowing how much worse it could get.

Ezra pulled his hand from hers roughly. His eyes filled with sadness and anger as he looked at her. His mouth was slightly open and his head was cocked to the side. He stared at her a moment unsure if he heard her correctly, or if his mind was just playing tricks. He wasn't sure if he wanted to yell at her or to just let it be. To agree would be the simple thing to do. It would end the tension between him and his parents, and it would settle things for Atalia and him, but the pain in his chest made it more complicated. He'd grown attached to Marta, to her presence and her touch. He shook his head and forced a smile.

"Stop. You're messing with me. Ha-ha, Marta," he said nudging her a little as he turned his head to face the ground, "You're not going to just...to just storm into my life and walk out like no big deal. You wouldn't do that to me...not now," he said his voice shaking a little.

He'd risked his life multiple times for her and he wasn't ready to just let her have it be all in vain. He could feel his chest growing hallow as he avoided her gaze. He'd scooted a little farther away from her, but kept his hand planted between them...willing for her touch it. Regretting that he'd pulled it away so quickly.

"You're not going to abandon me when I need you the most," he whispered after a moment of silence, "You wouldn't do that. I know we've only known each other a short while, but you told me you loved me and I believed your words. Now you're making me the fool. I don't know if I should hate you or just let you do this. Is it because of my parents? They'll come around when you convert. Atalia and I are arranged, but arrangements change. Her father just died, her mother will be packing up and moving with her shortly, back to her family. They'll meet another boy who will gladly take her hand. She's a beautiful girl. I'm here...I'm here because of you Marta."

He looked over at her as a tear rolled down his cheek and he quickly wiped it away. His father had gotten him a way out, but Ezra refused to leave, not just because of the family, but he wasn't ready to let go of the only person who showed him he was worth more than just his skill in baking. He was worth more than the money he would make. With Marta he could follow his passions of writing and she willingly pushed him towards those goals. His mother and father had seen it as no more than a hobby, but Marta encouraged him to pursue it as a career. He would never be Shakespeare, but he could still land among the stars with him.

"Marta...tell me why. Just give me a reason, a real reason and I'll let you go," Ezra said has he hand reached for the necklace that was no longer there. The only form of comfort beside Marta that he had...gone and it appeared that pretty soon she would leave him too.

Marta felt actual pain when Ezra ripped his hand from hers. She knew it wasn't intentional, but the sting was still there. She looked over as she saw the emotions play out across his face. While their time together has been short, Marta could read Ezra's emotions like a book. She saw the sadness, anger and confusion. She could also sense the disbelief, and when he tried to play it off as a joke, Marta wanted to just laugh and tell him it all was. And in a way, it is. She didn't want to do what she said, it was the last thing she wanted to do. But her brain convinced her it was the right thing to do. Damn her brain, it always caused the problems.

She felt Ezra move farther away and begin pleading to her, trying to make her understand everything would work out. Had her optimism rubbed off on him? Was that a good thing or a dangerous thing? Marta wanted to keep believing it was a good thing, but if it were then they wouldn't be in this situation. There wouldn't be this cloud of doom hanging over their head, but it was there. But Marta hoped it would be a rainbow on the other side. Curse her positive outlook, the same positive behavior that made her crumble. There was no way she could go forth with the logical plan. The plan that could save Ezra's life, the plan she just tried to put into action, but Ezra put up so many blockades. So when Ezra asked her for a real reason, she was left speechless.

Unable to control her emotions, Marta closed the gap between her and Ezra and gave him a passionate kiss on the lips. When she pulled back, she kept close, her hand clutching onto his shirt and the other running her fingers through his hair. "I can't... I can't give you a reason. Not because there isn't one, there are thousands of reasons why you should let me go, but I won't let you. I am no good for you. I am the worst thing that has ever happened to you, but you are the best thing that has ever happened to me."

She pulled back slightly, running her fingers along his cheek, wiping the tears that he missed. "You should have never followed me out of the bakery the first day. You were a fool... but I am an even bigger fool to imagine my life without you. When I said I loved you, I meant it. I love you Ezra, so much so, you were right... I am going to be the death of you, but I am too god damn selfish to leave."

She took a deep breath in, still clinging to Ezra's shirt. So much for that plan. But it was a vicious cycle these two were in, and would continue to be in until things really did change. Nothing could change until Marta was no longer a threat to Ezra, which was the day she officially was converted. Until that day, Marta would live with the guilt of knowing anything terrible that happens to Ezra is her fault.

Ezra let his one hand rest against her leg and the other on her waist. He'd been too caught up in her words and in the kiss that he hadn't noticed Oscar until his hand forcefully pulled Ezra off the bench. Out of instinct Ezra shoved the hand away from him. He heard the laughter as he stumbled into the street a little. He could hear a gasp from Marta who could do nothing but sit there stunned. Oscar quickly grabbed Ezra and pulled him back to the side walk like he wanted to talk.

His eyes flicked to Marta, "Let her go," he said through clenched teeth.

"Let her go," Oscar said mimicking Ezra. A harsh laugh escaped the mans mouth as he nodded, "How about I make her watch," he said as he punched Ezra in the stomach causing him to go down on his knee gasping for air. "I want her to see what we do to Jewish rats. I want it to burn inside her mind so that every night when she goes to sleep she can dream of me taking the life right out of your body. I warned her, Ezra. I really did, but sometimes you need to use physical representation."

Ezra's heart sank to his stomach as he began to stand up only to have Oscar kick him in the ribs. Ezra let out a breath and fell to his side. His eyes switched their focus between Marta and Oscar. "We were just saying...saying goodbye. We're not seeing each other anymore. She sees it your way now. I'm nothing but a parasite," he said as he spit a little blood on the sidewalk.

"Oh yes, that kiss I just saw really backs those words, Ezra. What a pathetic name. Ezra. Does it mean piece of shit? I'd burn you alive if I could," Oscar said with another laugh as he kicked Ezra in the face causing the boy to black out for a moment. "See what happens Marta when you befriend the enemy? Poor boy's going to suffer because of you."

Ezra struggled to open his eyes, but he refused to just go down without being able to fight. This guy was taking everything from him and he'd be damned if he let Oscar hurt Marta. He let out a cough and he could taste the blood on his lips. The smell of blood seemed to wrap around him and freeze his movements as he was brought back to a few weeks ago. First the stabbing, the altercation in the bakery, and now this. Ezra wasn't sure how much more he could handle. He'd never been one to fight unless he needed to. Most of the time he'd never raise a hand to a person for his own protection, but right now it wasn't about him. Marta was the one in trouble. Oscar was going to torture her mind and he couldn't just take a beating like he was taught, but the act of moving was incredibly difficult. His head was spinning and his muscles felt like brick. His eyes opened a little and he could see the horrified look on Marta's face.

"Run...Marta...before...it's..." Ezra couldn't finish before he received another kick to the abdomen.

Marta felt the tension leave her body as Ezra stayed close to her. She wanted to slap herself silly for almost doing what she did. She continued to run her hands along his chest and face. Marta tended to do that a lot, almost her way of making sure he was real. She was about to go in for another kiss, when suddenly Ezra was pulled away from her. Marta looked up and her eyes widened and she felt panic spread through her bones. Oscar. Marta watched in terror as Oscar dragged him away. This was her nightmare becoming a reality. Marta, unsure of what to do, did the only thing she could think of. She ran over and grabbed Oscar's arm, in attempts to get him away from Ezra. She wanted the focus on her, maybe give Ezra a chance to run or get help. But help wouldn't come. She knew they were visible and people saw them, but they were too scared to get involved. And Oscar was too determined on Ezra.

So when Marta grabbed his arm, Oscar turned for a moment to focus on Marta. He grabbed her by the hair and pulled her close, spitting in her face, before pushing his so hard, Marta went stumbling to the ground. She shook her head to focus, when she saw Oscar punch Ezra in the stomach. Marta gasped and tears streaming down her face. She was helpless. There was nothing she could do. Even despite Ezra's attempt to say they were over wouldn't fool Marta. She just sat there in horror as she watched the man she loved be beaten to death.

"Stop! Please stop!" Marta yelled over and over, but no one heard her. She couldn't even hear herself. Everything began playing in slow motion. The blood dripping from Ezra's mouth, her heart beat in her ears, everything was so unreal. She looked over at Ezra when he tried to warn her to leave, before Oscar gave him one final blow and Ezra blacked out, laying there in a pool of blood. Marta was shaking, silent sobs escaping from her. Everything was her fault. The man she loved was dying right before her eyes.

She saw Oscar walk over to her, and she looked up, fear in her eyes. He knelt down, grabbing her face roughly in his hands. "You want to be a Jewish rat, then you will join him in the gutters." He dropped her face roughly before walking over to his car and speeding away.

Marta sat there, frozen, before snapping back to reality. She quickly crawled over to Ezra, pulling his head into her lap. "Ezra! Ezra please don't leave me!" Marta had tears falling down her face, dripping onto Ezra's face, as she shook holding him in her arms. She suddenly heard a car driving by, and Marta looked up and waved her arms frantically. Thankfully the person pulled over.

****

Marta stood outside the bakery, her face swollen with crying, a few tears slipping from her eyes. Her dress stained with blood... Ezra's blood. After the kind stranger helped Marta get Ezra to the hospital, she explained what happened as the doctors wheeled him away on a stretcher. They would not let her pass through the doors since she was not family. She didn't want Ezra out of her sight, but she knew what she had to do. She took the bus back into town and went directly to Ezra's family bakery.

Walking in, both of his parents looked up when they heard the bell ring. They knew right away something was wrong. Abe walked out from behind the counter and walked over to her. He placed a hand on his shoulder, "Is he dead?" his father asked, in a straight forward tone. Marta who was still shaking, couldn't form any words, shook her head no. At this point, Ezra's mother was standing by her side.

"What happened?" she asked. Marta then did her best to try and explain what happened. She lost track of the number of times she begged them for forgiveness. She knew it was her fault, she knew they didn't approve of her, but the one thing she didn't apologize for was loving their son. Ezra's parents, as hard as it is to admit it, did not looked shocked, yet more guilty. They felt bad sending him off on his own, but he had been adventuring so much out on his own, they knew to secretly meet Marta, that they had a brief moment of hope that maybe it was going to be ok. But look what optimism got them.

Without a word, the two left the bakery, Marta following behind. There were no words spoken, but it was in agreement they would all be going to the hospital. Once they arrived, Ezra's parents were ushered into Ezra's room right away, but Marta had to sit and wait, not knowing if Ezra was in fact still alive, or how he was. She sat there, shaking as she tried to keep from going mad.

Ezra wasn't sure where he was exactly when he first started coming to again. His body was hurting all over and it was hard for him to breathe. He could hear people talking around him, but they didn't seem to notice his small movements until he let out a whimper from the pain. He felt hands rush to cradle his face and he could feel water sliding down his face and he wasn't sure if they were his tears or the person holding him. He heard small shush whenever he opened his mouth, trying to speak but failing. The hands fell and suddenly a bright light hit his eyes and he winced a little.

"He's got another concussion. His ribs are broken. His nose is also broken. He's lucky his lungs weren't punctured and there wasn't internal bleeding. This is the second time in a month that he's had a concussion. His speech may be a little slow and he might get confused a lot easier. Try and keep him in a dark room for a couple days. No solid foods right now if possible. He's lucky to still be alive Mr and Mrs Baer," the doctor said patting them on the back, "we've got a full house, so he's ready to leave once the papers are signed. He can't be on his feet until he sees me again in another month. Those ribs need a chance to heal."

Ezra made a small gesture and his mother quickly went to his side. She had a smile planted on her round face and she kissed him on the cheek a few times before letting his father come to his sons side. Abe grunted a little, but the fear was planted in his eyes. Ezra knew right away they'd thought they would be coming here to collect his body. He was sure his mother had already been planning who to invite to the funeral.

"Pa..." Ezra said quietly clenching his teeth at the pain from talking.

"Now son, you save your strength. We'll take you home and you'll sleep in the bedroom until you're all better. Mama and myself will sleep in the living room. We'll make sure you have care the whole time, and I'll be sure to bathe you every night," Abe said keeping his hands to himself. He wanted to reach out for his son, but the fear of never seeing him again lingered inside his body and he refused.

His mother nodded, "Let's get you home. Marta...Marta can stay with us for a bit if she would like to help care for you, but I don't want you outside in public with her ever again. She's caused you nothing but trouble Ezra. I know in your heart you feel like you love her,but Atalia is a nice Jewish girl and you wouldn't be risking your life for her," she said as she started crying again.

Ezra tried to protest, but his father held up a hand, "Let's get you out of this bed and head home."

It took a bit before they resurfaced to where Marta had been waiting, Ezra was half using his crutches and half leaning on his father with every step he took. His body felt like one huge bruise and every step sent pain straight through his body. He scanned the room for her and once his eyes landed on her hunched over body, he smiled.

"Marta," he said in a weak yell as he took a step towards her. The crutch slipped from his hand and he let out a small yelp as his father quickly hooked his arm around his waist to keep him steady.

Marta's leg bounced nervously as she sat in the waiting room. It had been nearly four hours since they had arrived at the hospital. Marta didn't know what was happening. She didn't know if Ezra was still alive, or if was going to be ok. She was completely in the dark and she hated it. But her place was out here. She didn't deserve to be in there, comforting and helping Ezra. He was here before of her. The guilt was tearing her up inside. Why didn't she just follow through with breaking up with him? He would have walked away before Oscar showed up and none of this would ever happen.

Marta didn't care how many people were staring at her, but she was definitely a sight to see. She had tear stains on her cheeks, the tears had dried up at this point. Her eyes were completely bloodshot, and there was still a blood stain on her dress. Her hands were buried in her hair, as she rested her elbows on her knees, her whole body shaking from her leg bouncing. She could barely remember how to breath, but she managed enough. The images of watching Oscar beat up the man she loved were replaying over and over again in her head. How could she ever forgive herself? How could Ezra ever forgive her?

That is when Marta realized, she may never see Ezra again. There was no doubt his parents would ban her from ever seeing him again. But the question is, did Ezra want to see her? He knew all these things were going to happen, he knew she would be the death of him. But maybe he had hoped it wouldn't happen, but now that it has, is she really worth anymore? Just a few hours ago he begged her not to leave, and she didn't, but now Marta truly believed he would kick her to the curb. That is if he was even still alive... she hadn't a clue.

As Marta sat there, she suddenly heard her name. Looking up, she saw Ezra walking towards her. She gasped when she saw what condition he was in. His face was swollen around his nose and eyes, and he was hunched over walking with a crutch. She could see how much pain he was in. She stood and just as she started over, she noticed Ezra stumbled. Her instincts were to reach out to catch him, but his father beat her too it. Marta frowned; she was useless. She walked over, wanting to touch Ezra, to make sure he was real, but she didn't dare, not in front of his parents. She felt new fears forming in her eyes, but didn't let them fall. She just wanted to take him away and escape somewhere where no harm could ever come to him again. But she didn't have the right.

Marta dug her nails in her palms, to keep herself from reaching out for him, but she gave him a gently smile and said, "I am so sorry Ezra."

But before he had time to answer, his parents were ushering him out into the hallway and towards the bus stop. Marta walked a few steps behind them, unsure if she should follow. Marta assumed she would not be ever allowed near him, but when the bus arrived, Ezra's mother turned to her, "Come now dear. We must get him home."

So together, they rode back into the center of the Jewish neighborhood. Marta was forced to sit across the aisle on the bus, since Ezra's parents both flanked his sides and held him close to keep the shaking bus from making it more painful. Once they arrived at the bakery, Abe helped Ezra up the stairs and straight into the bedroom. Marta followed, but always stayed a few steps back. She wanted to be the one to help him, but it wasn't her place or privilege. The only reason Ezra was in this condition was because of her. As Abe was in the bedroom with his father, who was helping him wash up and put on clean clothes, Ezra's mother was in the kitchen preparing dinner. Marta just sat on the couch, feeling completely helpless. She offered to help Ezra's mom, but she said it wasn't necessary, so she just sat there waiting, wondering what was going to happen next.

Edith set three plates on the table and brought the food over quietly. She looked over at Marta occasionally not sure what to tell the girl. Every motherly instinct told her to make Marta leave and ensure she never came back, but she knew Ezra well enough to know that he would search for her. He had never been one to be rebellious, but he believed in his heart of hearts that this girl was the love of his life, and she couldn't deny him of the only thing that seemed to make him happy.

She let out a small sigh and fixed her dress. She walked over to the sofa and sat down next to the girl. Edith gently took her hand in her own and gave her a small smile. "Marta, I know you didn't mean for this to happen. Abe and I understand that you aren't following Hitler's teachings. I know how much my sons cares for you, but with you being a different religion we cannot approve of whatever it is going on between you two. He's promised to another girl and they are to marry by the time he's 18. I wish to see him alive another year so that I may see my only child marry. I can't in good conscious allow him to see you in public or for him to be seen with a girl who is not Jewish. If you wish to continue being in his life then you will see him here in this house from now on. If you wish to be with my son I will convince our Rabbi to help convert you, but until the conversion is complete you will not be allowed in public with him. I'm sorry but I must protect my son," Edith said holding tighter onto her hand. She took a breath and stood up, "Come now. You can bring Ezra a bowl of soup and eat in the bedroom if you wish, but you are also welcome at the table. If you don't want the food, you can have some of the soup I made for him."

Abe had fluffed Ezra's pillows about four times before he was satisfied with how they sat. He helped his son to the bed and pulled the blankets up to his waist. It was easier to just leave Ezra sitting in his underwear than trying to dress him completely. Ezra had been going in and out of consciousness during the bath and he was struggling to speak more than few words.

"Pa...I'm....okay," Ezra said trying to smile, but his face was too swollen to move.

Abe nodded, "I know you are. Your mother just likes to be extra cautious. I'll go get Marta for you. Try and keep the kissing to a minimum. You're really injured Ezra," he said.

Ezra let out a butchered laugh, "Okay...Pa."

Marta felt the weight of the couch shift and she looked to her side and saw Edith sitting next to her. Marta respectfully listened to everything Edith said, and Marta felt her body shaking, but she did her best to disguise it by holding a pillow against her chest. Everything the woman said, Marta was aware of. She knew of the arrangement, and she knew it would be the best thing for Ezra, and Marta didn't even deserve what her mother was saying. Marta would almost prefer that his parents banish her entirely and said they ever see her around here again, they would have her arrested. Or at least taken away forcefully. Marta didn't want that to happen, but felt it needed to happen. She needed to stay away from Ezra, but she couldn't. She was addicted to him. She wanted to be near him everyday. She wanted his touch, to hear his voice, to smell the fresh baked items in his hair, she wanted it all. But there was no way in hell she deserved it. Even when Marta converted officially, she knew deep down, his parents would always resent her. She was a black cloud over their family.

Marta didn't say a word, but stood when Edith did. She walked over to the kitchen and waited for Edith to pour Ezra his soup, which consisted of mostly a broth and a few carrots. She placed it all on a tray, along with a glass of water. Edith was about to usher Marta into the bedroom, when she noticed the state of the girl. Letting out a sigh, Edith removed the sweater from her body and handed it to Marta. Marta frowned a bit out of confusion, but looked down and noticed for the first time the blood stain covering her dress. She suddenly felt nauseous, but suppressed it while she slipped the sweater on. Marta then lifted the tray and walked over to the bedroom just as Abe walked out. He gave her a nod and held the door open for her. Once Marta slipped into the room, Abe closed the door behind her, but left it open a crack. Marta didn't dare close it all the way.

She saw Ezra lying on the bed, his shirt was not on. Marta could see the newly formed bruises which surrounded his previous scars. Marta wanted to cry, but taking a deep breath, she did her best to act calm. The focus did not need to be on her or her emotions. All that mattered was taking care of Ezra and getting him back to full health. She walked over and smiled gently as she carefully sat on the edge of the bed, holding the tray in her lap.

"Hungry?" she asked quietly as she carefully laid a napkin across his lap and got ready to feed him the soup.

Ezra looked at her, blinking a couple times trying to get her into focus. He nodded his head slowly, he wasn't too hungry, but she looked ready to leave and he wanted her to stay with him. he reached out his hand slightly toward her but it fell a couple inches short. His head wasn't hurting too bad since they had given him plenty of medicine, and his mother would be getting more for him later. He let his head fall back against the pillows and gave a small sigh which shot a pain through his torso. He cringed a little and bit his lip.

"Come sit...on...bed," he whispered scooting over a little so that she could fit next to him, "I...want...to...touch." His words came out slow and there was a small struggle to get them out, but he was doing his best to try and show her he was okay.

He could tell right away that guilt was eating at her and he knew she blamed herself. He closed his eyes for a second trying to will away the imagines of the incident. He wished she would have run, but he knew it was a long shot. Part of him didn't think he'd wake up and see her again. Ezra thought she'd never come back around let alone offer to feed him. He reached for her again noticing her hesitation to join him on the bed.

"Please, Marta. Sit...sit with me," Ezra was begging now. His heart began to beat faster and he could feel himself getting worked up like a child who didn't get what they wanted for their birthday. He could also feel himself getting angrier for being unable to pull her into bed with him. His strength was there, but his body was too sore to obey and the smallest movements made him want to scream out in pain. He tried to keep his head up, but it kept fall back down and the anger slowly became sadness as he looked at her. "You...you want to leave. You don't...want me?"

Marta stood there with the tray, knowing she should go over and sit next to him and feed him, but she was frozen in place. His bruised and battered body was a reminder of the terrible things that happened because of her. And her "people". The people from her social standing, the people who went to her parent's church, the people she grew up with, they did this to Ezra. And to the other Jewish members of the community. How could things change so quickly? Marta never remembered it being like this as a child, then again, she was naive and too much in a happy bubble to realize this has always been happening. Just behind closed doors, and in dark alleys. But with Hitler in power, it opened up the hate and it made it ok to do what has been done to Ezra. Marta was beyond ashamed of "her people". That is why she wanted Ezra, and his family, and their community to be her people. Even if it met her life.

She snapped out of her thoughts when she heard Ezra trying to speak and watching him struggle to sit up and reach for her. When he asked if she didn't want him, Marta quickly shook her head. She quickly snapped back to reality, or as close to reality as she could get, and carefully placed the tray atop of the dresser next to her. She walked over to the bed, sitting down on the edge facing Ezra, tucking one of her legs under herself. She took Ezra's hand that had been outstretched a moment again, and held it between hers. She reached up and brushed the hair out of his eyes, it was still wet from his bath. Marta looked into his eyes, feeling the tears forming again behind hers.

"I don't want to leave" she said softly as she continued to run her fingers through his hair, much like she did the first night they met. She found it soothed her and it seemed to sooth Ezra as well. "Ezra I will always want you. But what am I suppose to do? I bring nothing but harm and danger to you, how can I stay around when I know this is happening?"

She took a deep breath, scooted as close as she could to Ezra without causing him any pain. She wished she could wrap her arms around him, and vice versa, being in his arms was the safest place Marta has ever been. The same can't be said about her arms. Her arms only brought bad things to Ezra. He was pulled from her arms today and beaten nearly to death. He was the farthest thing from safe in her arms.

She leaned over, placing a light kiss on his lips, knowing his face must be in pain from his broken nose. "It should be you who doesn't want me anymore."

Ezra did his best to raise his arms so that he had them wrapped around her waist. He ignored the pain he was feeling and her words pulling her back into a kiss that was filled with hunger and lust. His fingers dug into her back as he kissed her for what felt like would be the last time. He wasn't sure if she'd change her mind and he wanted to memorize the way her lips felt against his and the way her tongue tasted pressed against his own. He pulled her on top of him wincing slightly from the pressure of her weight pressing down on his broken ribs, but he refused to let up. His head began to feel a little dizzy after a couple moments and reluctantly he parted with her to catch his breath. He leaned back against the bed eyes closed as he panted a little and cringed.

"I came to terms with dying young since the first time you kissed me. I thought...I thought you were okay with it when you continued to come around. I've disobeyed my family and my religion, and I've nearly died twice now. You could have run...but I don't think you did. I don't remember seeing you run...I...I don't remember too much of what happened...but I saw your face and your feelings changed didn't they? You saw me almost die and you began to second guess me...was I really worth it?" He paused a moment to catch his breath wincing slightly, "I will die young even if you are not mine. I might as well...have a reason for giving up my life. If that man doesn't kill me someone else will. You put too much of it onto yourself. My near deaths are because I am a Jew and Hitler commands my peoples heads."

He placed his hand on her leg and let out a painful sigh. His stomach growled a moment and he let out a little bit of a laugh, "If you...if you help me this one time with my dinner...I promise to let you leave without trying to stop you...I just...I don't want my mother in here...fussing with me. Help me one last time and then you can go if you want or you can stay here in this bed with me and I can hold you until we fall asleep."