“Because it fills your stalker-y fantasies,” he snarks.
“No,” I argue. “Because it’s the truth.”
He blinks once. Twice. Utters a soft, “Oh.”
I try again. “Please?”
“Wow. A stalker saying please.”
“I think most people would be surprised at how feisty you are.”
“Maybe.” But then, he chuckles, and the sound warms my blood.
“My parents are super religious, and, well, they-they’re not…kind,I guess you could say.” He’s fidgeting with his fingers, and it makes me smile softly. “I grew up really sheltered, which I know now, and it took a lot for me to get out ofthere and be where I’m at now. So, of course, it’s only ironic that I end up back under the power of someone.”
I clench my fists, hating the words I’m about to say. Words he didn’t ask for, but ones I’m about to give him, regardless. “You’re not under my power, Madison,” I tell him in a painful whisper. “If anything, I’m under yours.”
Silence descends.
And then, it shatters.
“W-what? That doesn’t… I don’t…” he stumbles over his words, head shaking between his shoulders, and I can’t help the small smile that curves my lips. Or the small jolt in my chest at the sight.
Damn.
He’s cute.
“It’s all about power, Madison. And it’s all yours, I promise you.”
“I don’t understand!” he shouts. “How is it mine when you’re the one doing all of this!”
I swallow sadly. “You’ll see.”
He huffs a breath like he doesn’t believe me. “Sure, I will.”
“You look cute when you’re frustrated,” I say to not only break the tension but to steer the conversation in a different direction.
“Oh, God. I… I forgot already! How did I forget…” he seems to mutter to himself before he stands with his hand on his hip, head cocked to the side as he looks around his room. “Where is it?”
Shit.
“Where’s what?” I ask, feigning ignorance.
“The damn camera, Cedrick. I want to know where it’s at.”
“Do I have to answer that?” I ask as I blow out a breath.
Madison’s brows furrow, and his lips purse. “Yes.”
“Fuck. I just love watching you, little mouse…”
“I know! Now, tell me!”
Damn it all to hell.
“It’s attached to the light fixture,” I mutter, hating this truth game more than ever before. I’m giving himso muchand can only hope he gives me the same in return…
“You… that’s right in the middle! You can see everything!” he accuses me, and I smirk even though he can’t see me.
