Jackets (by Lisa Guidarini)Her stomach lurched in fear when she saw he held the bill outlining every detail of her sin in black and white. Watching his hand tremble she felt a momentary stab of compunction, a brief wavering of confidence she hadn't felt while committing the acts that led to her downfall. She jerked her chin up, her eyes somewhat belying the confidence in her posture.
'I can't believe what I'm reading. You've done it again, after you promised you wouldn't.'
Her gaze remained steady, her palms growing damp. She watched him, knowing that what he saw sealed her fate.
'I hardly thought you'd hold me to that promise. It was under duress.'
He gripped the paper tighter, wrinkling it in his fist. 'Bitch!' he spat, between clenched teeth.
She tossed her head, challengingly. 'You know, I'd do it again.'
'I know you would, you have no control over yourself. You think you can have what you want, and nothing anyone says can stop you.'
Her eyes flicked over his shoulder, caressing the objects with her gaze. He knew what was going through her mind; his eyes blazed again in anger.
'I've had all I can take of you. Good riddance! I hope you're happy.'
She couldn't hide her relief as he stalked out the door, keys in hand. A smile played on her lips as she looked at the long row of pristine dust jackets. Now, she thought to herself, I've just bought myself a lot more quiet evenings.
[The second short short story series is announced and explained here.]