Page 52 of Cruel Devotion

Then, to my surprise, Freddie leaned in closer, his grin broadening. “You know, Monique, why did the fruit basket go to the doctor?”

I blinked, taken aback by the abrupt change in conversation. “Why?”

“Because it wasn’t feeling grape!” He smirked.

Despite the situation, a genuine chuckle left me. “Al-right.”

“Oh, I’ve got a ton of those.” Freddie did a dramatic spin.

Sal shook his head and frowned.

Rick cleared his throat. “Eh, Freddie. Sal wants you to get back to being official.”

Freddie glanced at Sal. “Sorry, but can I say just one more joke?”

Sal didn’t speak or move.

“Thanks, Sal. I’ll make it quick.” Freddie gestured for us to walk. “Moni, why was the math book green with envy?”

I followed him. “I’m afraid to ask.”

“Because it had too many problems!” He laughed.

Once we made it to the large tent, I entered, and they remained outside.

The sound of Freddie’s laughter echoed in my ears.

I couldn’t help but smile. Despite the presentcolorfulconflict, his jokes brought a much-needed lightness to the situation.

Okay. Time for a shower.

Chapter eight

Steamy Introspection

Monique

Completely naked, I went to the back of the space, moved the large tent’s flap, and entered the bathroom.

I scanned the space.

Okay then.

For a makeshift shower on a mountain, the details and thoughts that went into it were astounding.

To my left, there was a small carved wooden bench covered in plush blue towels.

On my right, a sleek metal frame held a peculiar-looking showerhead. The pipes leading up to it appeared to be more rugged and robust than I was accustomed to. It was most likely to withstand the mountain’s harsh conditions.

They twisted and turned in unusual configurations, like some kind of steampunk art piece.

I approached the shower area and my feet relished the sensation of the soft mat that lay beneath. It felt like stepping onto a cloud.

Taking a closer look at the showerhead, I noticed odd designs etched onto the surface. It was wider than the typical ones I’d seen, and it had multiple tiny holes, promising a rainy experience.

Alright. Let’s do this.

Turning the handle, water cascaded down, initially cool but gradually adjusting to a warm, comfortable temperature.

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