Page 3 of Light

Fuck, how I'd like to take a bite out of her.

"Down boy." I mentally reprimand my dick. She's already made it more than clear that she's not interested in me like that. At least not yet.

It's been a long while since I've had a true challenge when it comes to a woman, maybe this sweet thing is exactly what I need.

"I just need a few minutes. I can do a quick fix for right now but then I'm going to have to come back.

She gives me a tight smile as if she wasn't sure about me having to come back into her space. I can understand her hesitation after all the last time she and I were alone I flashed her.

"No worries I'll be on my extra best behavior." I return the tight smile she gives me and she rolls her eyes.

"I'm going to assume that your best behavior still leaves a lot to be desired."

I gasp and lean back. Was that a dig? Did she just insult me?

"You'll be surprised." I mutter before focusing my attention back on the electrical box.

There's a slight bang. The kid inside is knocking on the wall to get her attention. She peers into the window to give him a small wave.

"Do you need me out here for this? How much is this going to cost by the way?" She shoves her hand in her pocket as if she's really thinking about paying me.

I wave her away. "I already told you this was free of charge. You don't need to worry about paying me any money."

She takes a deep breath as if the thought of not having another bill is a relief. I want to ask her about it. Find out more about her situation. It's not my place. I don't need to know in order to get the job done.

"What's your name again? I'm sure you told me but..." She flips her hand by her head to indicate that she's forgotten.

"Light... and you're Melissa right?"

"Yes, that's right." This time when she smiles it looks much more genuine. The sight of it makes my stomach clench. "Well, I'm going to go inside, if you need me just holler." She rushes off to be with her son and I get to work on the electrical box so I can get the power back on for them.

A soft buzz shocks my fingers when I grab an exposed wire. "Shit!" I hiss and put my finger in my mouth to stem the pain. I'm not paying attention. I'm just thinking about her. It's infuriating.

She’s either the first real thing I’ve seen in years…

Or she’s just another pretty lie wrapped in soft skin and sweet scents.

And I’ve got no room left in me for pretty lies.

One

Melissa

Nights like this are rare.

Tyler’s breathing is steady, the lights are on, and for once, the world isn’t pressing its full weight against my chest.

But peace, in my life, never lasts long.

Tyler silently laughs at something on the screen, and I pretend like everything’s okay.

Like the lights didn’t go out last night.

Like danger isn’t curling itself around us, waiting for the next chance to squeeze.

I don't even know what it is we're looking at, something on basic cable. I think it must be a spin off of the old Power Rangers franchise. It could be the original. I don't have the slightest idea.

All that matters right now is that Tyler is safe and taken care of. That's the only thing that matters to me.

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