(Hey look. Pretty sure I've written this in some form already.)
The tiny box pushed is pushed across the island this morning. It's early. Sam is up and gone to work, it'll be another hour before PJ or the kids get up and I think Loch and Ben will sleep all day. I left the windows up and our bedroom is cool and breezy and dark.
So I get breakfast with the Devil which he is delighted about in spite of the fact that it wouldn't have been his favorite part if I stayed and I didn't realize how much he actually covets sleeping with me. Actually sleeping, not the other thing. Cuddling down and finding dreams. Letting go.
Lochlan's going to exploit the fuck out of this for the rest of our lives and I could have really used this information back in our Vegas days when I would easily black out on broken champagne glasses, orphan dollar bills and betting chips.
I've seen this box before.
I think you've earned a bonus. You gave me exactly what I wanted and you didn't talk back once.
I pull the ribbon and open the lid. The diamond earrings. I frown at him. I don't want earrings. Ben just eats them. I hate the way they feel anyway.
These are to replace the one Ben ate and if necessary you could use them to barter with in a post-apocalyptic situation.
You definitely spend too much time in this house. And besides, the ones he ate weren't real. Just glass.
Bridget, I'd like you to have some nice things.
I do. My boys are so beautiful. My children are perfect. I need nothing else. Some of my memories are beyond compare. I dream on a Ferris Wheel every night and I've seen almost everything there is to see. I don't need a flashy pair of earrings because then you may as well hang that Sugarbaby sign right around my neck.
I grow weary of seeing you in questionable quality jewelry. It reflects on me.
Then look at someone else. Also wow. You're a shallow dick this morning. From the fire to the ashes, I see. Which is it? Are they so I can have nice things or are they to make you look good?
Neither. They're a mistake, I gather.
Yes they are. Take them back.
I can't. Your initials are engraved on the backs.
You can have that filed off and pawn them. You probably used the wrong letters anyway.
Who's oozing with class now?
I never claimed to care. I cut my teeth on the freakshow, or have you forgotten?
I wish I could. You won't let me.
It's the only ammunition I've GOT.
PJ walks in rubbing his eyes. Cale, if I have to toss you out could you at least pull this a little later? I'll wear the earrings and be your baby. Just don't you touch my ass.
Caleb stands up, puts the box in his pocket and kisses the top of my head, telling me he'll come back when I've woken up a little. He nods at PJ on his way out and PJ pantomimes running after him with his arms outstretched, making me laugh.
