Prologue

I finish making the meal, fear in my stomach. He's coming home tonight. He went on a business trip with some new investors. I prayed all weekend that it would go well. That way he'll be happy and won't hit me. His little brother came to stay with us for a few days. He won't dare hit me in front of him will he? No. He won't. Please God, don't let him hit me tonight, I beg you. While the soup is simmering on the stove, I am busy setting the table. I do everything the way he likes it to avoid upsetting him. I wear the red dress he likes with pumps. I leave my hair down as he often asks me to do. At eight o'clock, there's a knock at the door. Caleb goes to open it.

<<Lucas... >> He says, opening his arms to his big brother.

<< Cal... What are you doing here? When did you get here? >>

<< I've been here since Saturday night. I asked Emme not to tell you, I wanted to surprise you. >>

<< Well, for a surprise, this is one. >>

I stand at the banister, my heart full of apprehension. As soon as he enters, I give him my best smile. He stares at me from head to toe and his face instantly closes. My smile disappears right away, I know this doesn't bode well.

<< I made your favorite food, >> I say as I walk over to him.

<< And believe me it smelled divine so I can't even imagine what it tastes like in my mouth. You are lucky to have such a woman. >>

<< Yes, I am >> he answered his brother in a strange way. The meal passes in a dead silence. The only one to speak is Caleb. To ask his brother from time to time what the trip was about and if it was fruitful. An hour later, Caleb gets up from the table.

<< Well, lovers, listen to me. I'm going to let you guys have your fun and I'm going to go meet up with my college buddies >>

In my heart, I yell at him not to leave, to stay with me. But he can't hear me. The door closes and I feel as if I am hearing the sound of my death. Lucas stands up and takes off his belt.

<< You dressed like that to seduce my brother, right? >>

<< No Lucas I swear not. >>

<< You dirty slut. You dare to lie to me? >>

<< I dressed like that because I knew you would like it, that's all. >>

<< You knew I would like it. You're lying, he screams with a look full of hatred. You wanted to seduce my brother. >>

I get up from the table to flee in the direction of the room. I haven't had time to take two steps yet and he's already there behind me.

<< Where do you think you're going? >>

He asks, propelling me to the other side of the room. Wait and see, I'll teach you how to strut your stuff in front of my brother. I wake up soaked with sweat. I had that stupid nightmare again. I should be used to it by now. But apparently my brain refuses to assimilate the fact that we are safe now and that he won't be able to hurt us anymore.