Laura’s Perspective
Jadi departs to retrieve his belongings and Melina from Priscilla and Ruben’s residence, affording me the opportunity to contemplate the agreement I have just made.
I proceed to the bathroom to apply cool water to my face and neck, exhaling deeply as I remove the perspiration from my forehead. My reflection derides my unfortunate circumstances, ridiculing me for permitting yet another wolf into my existence.
‘Do not permit him to approach too closely,’ I admonish myself. ‘Every act of kindness, every kiss, every tender touch upon my face… it is all deceit. He does not genuinely love me. He is indifferent to my well-being, regardless of his declarations to the contrary.’
As I reflect on the numerous occasions Aldo gazed into my eyes with feigned sincerity, professing his unwavering love while simultaneously engaging in an affair with my sister, tears well up. I wipe the tears from my cheeks and examine my reflection, scrutinising every flaw. Dark circles encircle my eyes, a testament to my sleepless night. Anxious that Jadi would locate me, I called in sick to work this morning, opting to keep Bray at home rather than send him to nursery. Naturally, my efforts w
A notion provides me with reassurance.
‘I am unworthy of love,’ I mutter to myself, cleaning my face. ‘I failed to retain my husband’s attention before he sought companionship elsewhere… Perhaps Jadi will likewise deem me insufficient as a partner and depart as well…’
I acknowledge my reflection with reassurance. ‘Indeed. Eventually, he will cease to have affection for me, and I shall be liberated.’
After delivering an inspiring self-motivation speech, I quickly locate little Bray in the backyard and summon him. He joyfully approaches with a smile.
“Where is Jadi, mother?”He enquires, glancing beyond me into the living room, “Can he join me in play?”
I bend down and pick him into my arms, transporting him to the living room and seating him on the sofa. I smooth his hair and cradle his plump cheeks in my hands.
“Bray,” I state, compelling a smile for him. “What is your opinion on Jadi residing with us … albeit temporarily?”
His eyes expand with elation. “Indeed!”He exclaims, rising to his feet and applauding. “Yes!” Affirmative! Affirmative!
Do you find that concept appealing?”I enquire, arching an eyebrow at him.”
Bray leaps onto the couch and erupts in laughter. “Indeed,” he chuckles, propping his chin on his palms.
“What about Melina? Is she permitted to remain here as well?” I enquire.
Bray springs on his toes, raising his fingers in a jubilant dance. “Indeed! Me-lina! She bakes the finest cookies!”
I sulk at him. “I believed I had baked the finest cookies…”
“No,” he replies with a grin, shaking his head and leaping up like a rabbit.
I pretend to be wounded by his candour, and he hastily approaches to kiss me directly on the lips.
“However, Mother prepares the finest pancakes!” he exclaims.
Bray abruptly extends his arms resembling an aircraft and glides towards his toy chest, retrieving his preferred toy train and action figures.
“What are you doing?” I enquire as he assembles a tiny collection of toys.
“To engage with Jadi,” he responds with a shrug, as though this were the most evident explanation.
Anxiety envelops me as I comprehend the impact of Jadi’s impending departure on Bray. I must do all effort to ensure Jadi swiftly dismisses me, allowing us both to separate unscathed.
“Recall, Bray,” I exhale, approaching him. “He is present only temporarily. He will not remain indefinitely. Entiendes?” I enquire.
He acknowledges and proceeds to assemble a collection of toys for Jadi upon his arrival.
Perceiving no merit in further elaboration, I hasten to the guest room to ensure its comfort for Melina, changing the linens and replenishing the towels. In my own bedroom, I mentally brace myself for cohabitation with a man. I vacate two drawers for Jadi and create space in the closet for his footwear and garments. A sense of unease envelops me as I gaze at the Queen-sized bed I am expected to share with a stranger. While sufficiently spacious for both of us, our bodies would inevitably make co
I fervently hope that their Moon Goddess would cease to afflict me with punishment!
I rearrange the pillows, and an amusing idea occurs to me, prompting laughter at the thought of his disapproval. Hours pass slowly until the sun sets on the horizon, and a small part of me wishes Jadi might have reconsidered. Just as this thought crosses my mind, the doorbell rings, and my heart sinks at the realisation of the visitors’ identity.
I complete tidying the bed and hasten to the door, inhaling deeply as I open it. Jadi and his mother offer polite smiles, while Priscilla and Ruben stand immediately behind them, awaiting entry.
