Page 39 of Under His Control

“Because it’s true.”

“She likes to have fun. Big deal.”

“She plays guys and makes them cheat too.” Bitterness drips from Byron’s voice. “Fun for her, not so fun for the people she hurts.”

Lewis picks up a card from the pack, an uncomfortable look on his face.

“I’ll give you that, but calling her ‘the town bike’ is still messed up, man. I don’t wanna hear that shit.”

What a way to learn Fiona is more trouble than I suspected. Thank fuck I bailed on that date.

I unwrap the sandwich I bought and I’m about to take a bite when Lewis turns to me.

“I heard you have company. That girl who was in the accident the other night.”

Of course. In a small town like Wenora, even the dullest news spreads like wildfire.

“Who told you that?”

“Keith, Mel’s cousin. He said he drove your lady friend to your place after she was done at the hospital.”

That fucking guy.

First, his pissy behaviour that night he brought Penelope to me. Now, he’s telling my business to probably all and sundry.

“He also said you were an asshole,” Lewis continues with a chuckle. “I told him you’re not so bad once he gets to know you.”

“He’s no ray of sunshine either.”

“Yeah, he gets a little hot a little too easily sometimes.”

“I win.” Byron lays down four face cards and a ten of clubs on the table. Lewis ignores him and smirks at me as I bite into my sandwich.

“So is your lady friend just a friend? Keith said she was pretty.”

Friends? Far from it, Lewis. She’s the girl who once ruined my life, now I’m screwing with hers while wanting to screw her too. And if you think that’s fucked up, it gets worse—she was once my stepdaughter.

I swallow my bite of my sandwich.

“Yep. Just a friend.”

* * *

Another snowstorm is on its way, but I’d be lying if I said that’s why I’m eager to get home.

I turn into my driveway as the twilight sky becomes indigo. It’s strange coming home again to warm amber lights glowing from inside the house.

Yesterday, it was unsettling. Today, there’s something comforting about it. A better experience than dark, empty windows staring back at me.

Accustomed to solitude for years, I never realized I’ve been sort of lonely until Penelope showed up. I like knowing there’s someone inside waiting for me even though I distrust them.

The porch light flicks on as I approach the stairs. A small cardboard package sits on the bench.

Same-day delivery promise kept.

I grab the package when I’m on the porch and enter the house. A delicious, savoury scent welcomes me. I’m going to have to be careful. Not only is Penelope’s presence interfering with my exercise routine, her tasty cooking is another attack on my fitness.

Penelope is sitting cross-legged on the floor like she was meditating before I arrived. Any good vibes she received are all gone now. Her eyes glitter with dislike.