Page 2 of Wicked Games

The aroma of sizzling bacon and brewing coffee fills the air as we cook breakfast over the campfire. We chat and laugh, enjoying each other’s company without the usual sibling bickering. The tension that used to hang between us seems to have dissipated, replaced by a newfound understanding and appreciation.

After breakfast, we decide to go on a hike. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, we walk side by side, sharing stories and observations. In front of a small waterfall, we stand in awe of its power. “Holy shit, Lowe! This is crazy! How deep do you think it is down there?”

“I couldn’t even guess,” I reply as I look over the ledge at the small circle of water below.

It’s in moments like this I am glad that my dad forced me to come on this trip. I wouldn’t get to experience a waterfall from in front of my TV or computer screen, that’s for sure. We continue our hike, marveling at the wonders of nature that surround us. The sound of rushing water, chirping birds, and rustling leaves creates a symphony of tranquility.

As we navigate through the rugged terrain, we encounter various wildlife, from squirrels scurrying up trees to deer leaping across our path. Ethan’s eyes light up with excitement as he points out each creature, his knowledge of the wilderness shining through.

We reach a clearing that offers a panoramic view of the vast landscape. The mountains stretch out in the distance, their peaks piercing the clear blue sky. It’s a sight that takes my breath away.

“I’m glad that you came, Lowe. I’m gonna miss you. And don’t you dare tell anyone I said that, got it?” He doesn’t look at me but I know he feels a little sad that I will be leaving.

“Don’t worry, booger. Your secret is safe with me.”

Lost in the moment, we sit on a rock and embrace the experience. The silence between us is comfortable, no longer filled with strained conversations or petty arguments.

“Hurry, let’s go back before Diane gets angry.”

“Are you sure about going back then?” His smirk makes me smile.

Back at the campsite, we spend the afternoon playing more card games, taking turns winning and losing. As the sun sets, we gather around the campfire once again. The crackling flames and dancing shadows create a cozy ambiance. We roast hot dogs and share about the waterfall we found.

“That sounds like a lot of fun. You and I will have to go find that tomorrow, Sam.” Diane caresses my father’s face.

“Gross,” Ethan and I say in unison.

“One day, you guys will be married and be just as smitten with someone. Just you wait.” Dad laughs, taking Diane’s hand and kissing her palm.

“And with that, I think I am going to bed.” Ethan pretends to heave.

As the night sky fills with stars, Ethan and I retreat to our tents. We lie in our sleeping bags, whispering to each other through the fabric that separates us.

“Hey Lowe,” Ethan says.

“Yeah, booger?” I whisper back.

“Don’t forget me when you move to California and start a new life. You’re the only mom I’ve got.”

Even though I cannot see him, I can hear the raw emotion in his voice. “I will never forget you. Ever. I’ll be back as often as I can. I promise.”

I close my eyes and try to stop the tears from falling.

Chapter 2

Wilder

People are so fuckin’ stupid. Either that or they just don’t give a shit and do whatever they want, anyway. Take, for example, the poor fucker that's lying on my dining room table before me. This piece of shit got in between me getting my cock sucked by the pretty blonde at the gas station. So, my way of saying thanks is to slit his gut from the navel to the sternum.

He whines through his gag as I sit in my Mere’s arms chair, my sharpening stone in one hand and the straight razor in the other. The sound of the blade gliding across the stone brings a strange satisfaction. “Ya can shut da fuck up now, you,” I say, my eyes narrowing on him. “Ain’t no one ‘round for miles, see. Jus me and my brother.”

Ollie’s been gone way too long for him to be finding us something to eat.

“Ya know, I’d hate to spoil my appetite, but you’s got to go,” I say, hoisting myself up from the chair. I approach him, flicking the razor open and closed, in a menacing like gesture. The stench of shit fills the air. I lean over him, a snarl on my face. “Did you shit on my Mere table, you dirty fuckin’ pig?”

The man’s eyes widen as I raise the blade to his face. He shakes his head back and forth, begging me to leave him alone. “Now, how we suppose to eat on this 'ere table now that you gone and shit on it? Huh?” I bring the blade to his bloated stomach, ready to cut into him.

Before I can make my move, the door slams open. “What the fuck you about to do on dat der table?” Ollie stops dead, a decent-sized gator slung over his shoulder. “I know you’s not ‘bout to cut him open where we eat. Come on now Wild,” Ollie suggests, adjusting the gator on his shoulder as he heads towards the kitchen.

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