The fucker used to stick sewing needles in the soles of my feet, make me run in place for hours, and take ice baths. Those are the more memorable punishments.
He considers crying weak, so I learned not to cry, or risk inciting his fury further. Now, I’m royally fucked up just like the bastard, giving validity to the adage, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Causing others pain gives me pleasure. I’m incapable of love and have no conscience. Feeling empathy or sympathy eludes me. A psychologist would have a field day inside my head.
The last time he dared raise a fist to me was two years ago. I broke his fucking jaw. It’s him who fears me now. Oh, how the tables have turned.
“Put your phone away,” he says in a commanding tone. “We need to have a discussion regarding your behavior.”
“No,” I immediately reply, keeping my gaze on the screen. “I agreed to come, conversation is optional.”
My presence is enough, and that’s all he’s getting.
“Y-you li-little—” he sputters indignantly.
“John and Maverick, it’s wonderful to see you both.” I glance up and see Mr. Thompson, my ninth-grade geometry teacher.
John pastes on a fake, award-winning smile, stands, and shakes his hand.
“Hello, Michael, did you recently get back?” John asks.
“This week in fact. I hope you don’t mind the interruption.”
“Not at all.”
“Great.” He gestures for the woman and girl behind him to come forward. “This is my lovely wife, Kelly, and stepdaughter, Cocoa.”
“Congratulations on your marriage.”
“Thank you,” Mr. Thompson replies.
I’m awestruck by Cocoa’s beauty, and my dick hardens instantly. Her skin, braids, and eyes are the same vibrant caramel color. Full, plump lips, a small waist, big breasts, a round ass, and thick thighs; she’s a fucking wet dream. I salivate imagining pounding between her legs.
Shit, I shouldn’t want to fuck a mongrel.
“It’s a pleasure to meet such lovely ladies.” John shakes their hands.
His fingers twitch, and I smirk at his discomfort. He absolutely hated touching Cocoa, but he can’t allow his persona to slip. He despises Black people and taught me whites are the superior race. He’ll probably douse his hand in bleach later.
“Likewise,” Kelly gushes.
I blatantly ignore them, and Cocoa shoots me a death glare, noticing my lack of respect.
“You left a single man but returned married. How did that happen?”
“This beautiful woman and I have been in a long-distance relationship for quite a while. It was well overdue for us to tie the knot.”
“On behalf of the citizens of Montgomery, welcome.” John bows, all dramatic and shit.
“It’s such a charming community!” Kelly exclaims. “Cocoa’s new to the area, but I’ve visited before.”
“Is our little metropolis to your satisfaction?” John asks Cocoa.
“So far, so good. Just unpacking and settling in, but plan on sightseeing soon.”
“Maverick, are you hosting your infamous back-to-school pool party this year? Cocoa will be attending Montgomery Academy and will be a senior too. It’ll be an excellent opportunity for her to meet classmates,” Mr. Thompson says.
“Of course she’s invited,” John chimes in. “It’s this Saturday.”
“Michael Thompson, party of three. Your table is ready,” a hostess calls.
