Page 32 of Under His Control

When he asked me to apologize in a way that satisfied him, I gave it my all because of guilt. It might have been too much, and it didn’t change his feelings toward me like I hoped. I think he hates me even more now.

He returned home after his trip outside with great displeasure written all over his face. I was sure he was going to tell me he changed his mind and the deal is off. It’s possible he might do it in the morning.

I rub my forehead, careful not to touch my bruise. God. This entire situation gives me a worse headache than when I smacked my head against the window.

“I need you to shut up and let me get some sleep, brain.”

But, no, the jerk keeps going, returning to another unwanted replay of my apology.

I’m sorry I was a dirty fucking liar. Please forgive me.

The kiss.

Then I lift my head and there it is. The obvious bulge.

And it wasn’t small either, especially when he stood up.

My phone pings. I’m so grateful for the distraction, I snatch it up from the coffee table. I had intentionally waited until it was past Aunt Dee’s bedtime to text her that I wouldn’t be home for the next few weeks. She probably stayed up late and saw it.

I unlock my phone and the wallpaper I painted of a lit candelabra in a gloomy cathedral hall illuminates the dark living room.

No, it’s not a reply from my aunt.

Cedric: Where’s my money, honey?

I dart a look at the date. Oh, no. How could I have forgotten I was supposed to make a payment today? Maybe the doctor was wrong that I didn’t have a concussion.

What do I say?

I don’t want to tell him I’m not in Toronto. He might think I ran away. It was the first thing he warned me not to do. “You’ll regret it if you do,” he had promised with a creepy smile.

This wouldn’t have been an issue if he would accept e-transfers, but he only wants cash payments. Most likely because it’s easier for him to hide his shady dealings from the authorities.

Me: I can’t pay this week. Can I do it with the next payment?

By then, if all goes well, I’ll be able to pay off everything.

Cedric: Just this once

Cedric: Late fee $100 a day

One hundred dollars a day?

He’s such an evil asshole! By the time my two weeks are up with Jacob, I’ll have almost fifteen hundred dollars in additional debt.

Cedric: I’ll waive it if you come to my office for a daily kneeling and cleaning ;)

My upper lip curls. “Fuck you, you fucking creep.”

I lock my phone and return it to the coffee table, then I squeeze my eyes shut and summon more sheep.

* * *

When you set off on a journey without a solid plan, make sure you at least pack enough underwear, or you might wind up going commando under your leggings.

I make a face and tug the crotch lower to stop the seam from rubbing against my naked bits. One set of change of clothes isn’t going to cut it for the next two weeks.

If Jacob lets me stay after what happened last night.