Card deck of Jokers

Chapter 9

"A million words would not bring you back. I know because I've tried. Neither would a million tears. I know because I've cried"

Conflicted

"I've done it" I said handing him his information sheet.

He made an impressed look and gave me the envelope that I did all this for.

"I'll be on my way now" I said turning back in the direction of our house.

"Not like that you're not" He said grabbing my arms and turning me around. "Do you know how many perverts are out on the streets this late?"

"Nothing I can't handle" I continued, shrugging my shoulders.

"Alright fine" Kye said releasing my arms and looking neutral.

"wait really?" I asked in disbelief. "You're gonna let me do what I want?"

"Well yeah if you say you can handle it then sure"

I smiled then started to walk home the same direction in which I was driven to get here.

All that was in my mind was how I was going to reveal this money to Felix and what he would say. I was hoping it would be a happy expression.

Before I knew it I felt a hand cover my mouth and pull me to the side.

"Hello gorgeous, aren't you pretty?"

I should have shouted, struggled, done anything I could to be free of his hold but I didn't. And that was only because I knew exactly who was holding me close and securely.

"Kye, seriously"

"I thought you said you could handle it?" He rasped in my ear.

I shivered while closing my eyes.

"I can. I just knew it was you was all" I said defending myself.

He chuckled again but this time he was more demanding than before.

"I'm taking you back home"

I could have spoke back, retaliated, had my own way. But I didn't and it was all because it was Kye telling me to do so.

He knew how controlling his words were and he knew how to cleverly use that to his advantage.

"Good, your not struggling...that's a first."

-

Felix was sitting opposite me. Hand on the remote and back against the chair.

"Hope you had fun" he smiled lightly, no joy in his voice.

"Yes um, I actually brought something for you"

He looked at me concerned and conflicted. "You didn't have to"

I nodded while placing the envelope in his hands. "Take a look"

He opened it precariously and peered inside before showing disappointment in his eyes.

"How did you get this?" He asked, waving half of the money in my face.

"Don't worry, it's for you" I replied feeling assured.

He sighed while wiping his face in regret.
"You heard me that day didn't you?"

I immediately looked down at my painted nails and fiddled with them. "Yeah I did"

He looked away shamefully then back to face me. "Did you hear what they said over the phone?"

I shook my head. I didn't know and I knew that I only heard only part of their conversation from Felix's side.