She smiles and he wonders as he watches her, what she might have to smile about, perhaps it is he.He strokes her soft cheek as he rests his chin on th... upturned palm of his hand, his elbow taking the weight of his heavy head, and it is heavy too because he’s had a hard day.She had wanted to stay up for his awaited return but sleep found her before he did.He talks to her, he unburdens himself for the simple release. He imagines her response, for he knows her well.“I love you” he finalises before. I called the gym and have Kathy covering for you.”She frowned. “Why would you do that? I’m going to work.”“Alright. I guess I’ll take Aunt Laura to La Douchebag tonight.”Marie's eyes popped open. “You actually managed to get reservations there? Don’t screw with me, Ben.”He laughed out loud. “Play with you and your food? Wouldn’t dream of it.”“Mmm… Fine.” She grumbled. “And speaking of food, do I smell scrambled eggs and pancakes?” His mom sniffed around.“You have a nose like a hound dog.” He. ”“You want me to run a mini golf … thing.”“Golf course. Slash ice cream shop. Yes.” I was processing all this information. “Please?” Kristen was begging.“Uh …”“I think you’d enjoy it. You’d have full control, you can hire some cute little girls … as long as you come home and fuck me right … and you’ll earn money. When you have enough, you buy a ring.” In her head this was all planned out.“Uh …” I was in a whirlwind. Work? Me? I understood where Kristen was coming from. We had. But I don't like to use them on such a beautiful young girl. So instead of making me unravel your mind, leaving you a stuttering, drooling mess for the rest of your life, just tell me. Or I will tear away your sanity, piece by piece, until I have what I want.”Something in her voice told Linya that she was not lying. And it drove a deep fear into her.“Please! Please don't hurt me! I'm not protecting anyone, I just don't know him!”“Well, I've offered you enough ways out. Time to get started.”The.