The Price of a Secret

5 | BONDS THAT IMPRISON

Classes had started to her relief, but not even the subject of oral and craniofacial anatomy could hold her attention. Words, debates, books, and assignments couldn't bring her back to Earth.

The morning drive to the University was slower and more observant. It was her first time driving from Alpine to La Jolla, but she had passed through El Cajon many times before. Now, however, she stopped at every corner, meticulously checking each person that passed by. This was madness, and she knew it. She couldn't live like this, searching for a ghost from the past who had already forgotten her.

Despite her desire to ignore the fact that the Heartland Fire Department was on her route, she couldn't resist the idea of driving by. Should she go there? And if she did, would she just drive past? Or would she stop?

No, definitely not. She had made a decision, and she needed to stick to it, for Simon's sake. He was rebuilding his life, and she could never destroy it.

The week dragged on with an endless stream of classes, once interesting and even thought-provoking, but now failing to garner any attention from her. Mason was becoming more and more absent, which was a great relief for her. However, the nightly visits to her chamber of torture continued.

Sitting at the dinner table on Friday night, they attempted to engage in casual conversation about the University, the Casino, and the Racetrack.

"How was your week at the college, dear?"

"Well, it was alright, but it was quite demanding". In truth, she couldn't recall a single word spoken by her professors all week.

"I hope you'll put more effort into it, Elizabeth. You need to graduate. You are my investment".

That surprised her.

"What do you mean, investment?"

"Well, dear. Did you think I was paying for your education out of pure altruism? I expect a return on my investment. Once you graduate, we will set up your practice, and more money will flow into the household".

Elizabeth didn't know what to say. Of course, she thought her money would help with household expenses, but she never imagined she was merely part of a business deal in which Mason had invested money. She had just discovered that his act was far from altruistic and kind.

Mason noticed Elizabeth's shocked expression and added:

"Oh, Elizabeth. Are you serious? Did you think you could lead a life of luxury while I work hard to support you? My dear, times have changed".

"No, Mason, of course not. I just didn't think you were planning to get a 'return on your investment'", she said, making air quotes with her fingers.

"But that's obvious, my dear. I'm a businessman".

And there, she realized one more thing: she was merely an object of ostentation in that big, beautiful, empty house.

"Oh, one more thing. I ran into your father at the Racetrack today".

Again? She thought. She wondered when her father would stop gambling. Apparently, her husband was heading down the same path. If she wasn't careful, she would end up supporting the house and his vices.

"And?" she asked.

"He invited us to have dinner at his place tomorrow. I thought it was a good idea. We haven't been there since the wedding".

Wedding. She no longer knew if she had married or signed a torture agreement. She felt like her life was slipping through her fingers. How could she escape this? She thought that perhaps it would be good to see her parents again. She could talk to her mother about everything she was feeling and how Mason had changed after the wedding. They had never been friends, but she thought she could confide in her.