I know I shouldn't lookHe's twisting my soul right in front of me, wringing it out with both hands, making me writhe in agony as he smiles so kindly at me. I should have been prepared.
But I can't turn away
What do you think would happen if everyone you went to for a hug in any given day ignored your requests, as if...you weren't even there?
They wouldn't because they know-
Just answer the question, Bridget. How would you feel? I want you to think hard before you answer.
Lochlan wouldn't-
Answer the question! Please. He softens slightly.
I stop protesting over something so ridiculous and think hard. I would die.
I can't hear you.
I said I would die.
How do you think it feels for me then to ask for your company, for anything-on my knees, no less, and to be ignored for it? How do you think it feels after everything I have done for you?
I'm not supposed to be beholden to you.
Oh, but you are.
I am not.
Bridget, you don't want to piss me off today with your impulsive, belligerent inner child.
The one in grade six, you mean? I don't think I've ever made Caleb speechless like that before but he dropped the subject so fast my head spun.
I need your assistance this morning.
Loch won't like-
I don't care what he likes, frankly. Would you like to come with me on a big-item shopping trip? I'm taking delivery of something you might enjoy.
Sure. May as well die young. And you have it backwards, by the way. You're beholden to me. Have been since grade six.
I know. How am I doing?
Terrible.
I'll have to work harder then. Give me fifteen minutes and we'll go. Run and tell your keepers.
They won't like it.
Oh, Bridget. As I told you already, I don't care how they feel.