Page 224 of Callan

It wasn’t easy to find something to my taste. There wasn’t much what I’d call modern literature, and the book I had picked up put me to sleep.

Today was better and worse at the same time.

Better because I’m getting used to the idea and the perks that come with this. The breakfast served in the nook in the kitchen. Chatting with the staff. Participating in activities around the house––because I’m getting bored.

But also worse because having my willpower stripped from me makes me feel unmoored. My whole life orbited around planning for the future and taking care of myself.

Maybe I hadn’t had much, but I had control over what happened to me. I made decisions. I suffered the consequences.Or was it the illusion of having control over my life?

Now?

Not so much.

A knock on the door makes me shift my eyes in that direction.

It must be someone from inside the house.I’ve been watching the driveway since I came back from lunch, and it’s almost five now.

No one else pulled in.

“Yes.”

The housekeeper enters the bedroom.

“I brought you a snack and some coffee,” she says, and although I’m full, I can’t say no to her.

I haven’t had someone treating me so nicely in a while.

I push up from my chair.

“Sure. Thank you. Let me help you,” I say, making room on the small table tucked by the window.

She sets everything down.

A plate of finger food and a cup of coffee.

“Great,” she says, looking at the open book on the sill. “I see you’ve got the hang of it,” she murmurs, smiling before tugging at the drape to reveal the entire view of the estate.

“It’s beautiful outside. Maybe I’ll go for a walk,” I say.

“You should do that,” the woman says as the lampposts come on. “It’s a beautiful time of year. Quiet and peaceful,” she adds before pointing to the food. “Grab a bite first,” she murmurs and pivots to walk away.

“Listen,” I say, sliding back into my seat.

The woman stops and turns to me.

“Yes?”

I ponder for a second.

“May I ask you something?”

She takes a few steps in my direction and stops in the middle of the room.

“Is there anything I can help you with?”

I fuss with my question for a few good moments.

“Do you know Callan well?” I ask.

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