It Was Only A Cut In Another Universe

Tasteless

Trigger Warning: Mentions of domestic abuse.

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Vincent's movement's were slow as he got ready for work. He felt a little disappointed that Manon didn't stay longer, yet he felt almost relieved. As much as he did care about Manon. He kind of wished he could end the relationship, but at the same time he didn't want to. Manon was the only girl he felt a genuine connection to. She lasted longer than all of his other relationships, and he couldn't let that go. He just wished he didn't have to spend so much money just to make her stay. Speaking of money he needed to get to work. Making sure to grab his bicycle, and keys before he left.

Things were surprisingly calm for the day. It was actually kind of a relief for Vincent. As he managed to get through the day relatively smoothly. Smooth enough that he managed to get time for a smoke break while taking out the trash. Pulling out his pack he only had a few left in it. He would have to get more on his way home. Pulling out his lighter next he attempted to flick it on. Only for some small sparks to come out. "Oh come on." Vincent groaned as he flicked the lighter again, only for no flames to come out. "God damnit." Vincent muttered as he bit down on the tobacco. "Need a light?" Vincent turned around slightly startled. Only to see Rody right next to the employees entrance. A match in his hand. Rody struck it against the wall before holding it out for Vincent. He held out his cigarette and let it ignite. "Thanks." He muttered as he brought the tobacco up to his lips. Why did Rody have matches on him? It was minorly concerning to him. "So taking a break?" Rody asked as leaned against the opposite wall. "Yeah." Vincent replied as he exhaled a huff of smoke. "You know if you need one feel free to ask. I, or someone else can cover your shift." Vincent nodded. 

"So how've you been since last night?" Rody asked as Vincent shrugged. "Fine. You know, home was a bit more relaxing." Rody nodded. "Are you single or something?" Rody asked. The question caught Vincent off guard for a second. "Uhh, no? What makes you say that?" Rody's face faltered a little. His smile lost a bit of its brightness. It felt more customer service. Like he didn't want to be smiling, but he had to be. In a flash he was much brighter. "Well sometimes partners tend to not help with relaxing. You know, like calling you out on dates, or calling you up on the phone." Rody explained. Vincent had to roll his eyes. If anything he was the needy partner. "Yeah well if anything I'm that person." Rody let out a surprised hum. "So what's her name?" "Manon." Vincent answered. "We've been dating for about nine months now." "Damn that's a long while. Congratulations." Rody said as he gave him an applause. Vincent gave him a smile. "Thanks." "So how is she?" Rody asked. Vincent didn't know why he wanted to know so much about him and Manon, but at least none of the questions were so uncomfortable. "She's nice." Vincent said as Rody raised a brow. "Is that all you have to say?" Vincent shrugged. "I guess." Rody's eyes narrowed at him in suspicion. Vincent couldn't blame him entirely. Though he really didn't want to talk about his relationship with Manon, and the other things that happened.

Vincent grunted as he crashed against a wall. Manon's parents were out, and the walls were well muffled. If anyone remained in the mansion they most certainly did not hear his grunt. His arms were littered with bruises and scratch marks. Blood dripped from his nose. After the last punch Manon had thrown his head felt fuzzy. His legs were shaky as he looked up at her. SHe barely had a scratch on her, but her face was filled with rage. "Manon please, I can." A loud slap rang through the room. "WHAT DID I SAY?!" The collar of his shirt was grabbed. Despite being significantly taller than her he felt incredibly small. His legs were bent. "You Don't Get To Talk After That Shitty Date. I Deserve Better Than Just A Walk In The Park." Manon spat. Part of her silva landed in his eyes. "If You Can't Provide For A NICE DATE! THEN WHAT IS THE POINT OF US GOING ON!" Vincent did his best to hold back his tears. Crying would just make it worse for himself. Yet his fear showed very clearly. Vincent remained silent, his lips quivering. "ANSWER ME!" "I'M SORRY!" Vincent shouted in fear as he looked away. Manon threw him down on the floor. "Clean this up. My parents can't see the mess you made."

"Well, I better get back to work." Vincent said as he dropped the cigarette onto the ground before stomping it out. Rody sighed. "Yeah I should to. Hey if you ever need a light let me know. I always have matches." Rody said with a wink. That just concerned Vincent even more. He really hoped Rody wasn't an arsonist or anything. "Thank you, I'll keep that in mind." Vincent said as he and Rody walked back inside.

Vincent finished mopping up the dining room floor. When he walked into the kitchen he saw Rody holding a to-go box in his hand. "What's that for?" Vincent asked. "Oh it's for you. I'm trying out a new recipe and I want you to try it first." Vincent felt a little flustered at the request, but then he began to feel guilty knowing he would not be much assistance. But what would Rody say if he found out? Manon already didn't like it. "Uhm sure." Vincent said shakily as he was handed the to-go box. Vincent opened to reveal some type of pasta. Vincent hesitantly dipped his fork in. Circling it in the noodles. Getting a good chunk of it. Maybe this time he would be able to taste. Maybe this time would be different. As the pasta entered his mouth he tasted nothing. The only thing he could feel was the slop from the sauce. He did his best to keep a straight face as the disgusting slop made its way down his throat. He was sure it tasted good on its own, but to him. It was disgusting. Yet Vincent had to hide it. "How is it?" Rody asked as Vincent looked up at him. "It's great. I'm going to finish it at home. I'm a little tired." "Right." Rody said, a little disappointed as Vincent grabbed the to-go box. "See you tomorrow Vincent." Vincent gave him a bright smile. "See you." He said while rushing out. Doing his best to hold back any vomit threatening to come out of his mouth.