Lie

Spring was in full force, shining in through my bedroom window.

I stared out, seeing the tree’s branches wave. It was gorgeous, and although it was so within reach, I felt as if it was never within reach. I reached for the curtain, darkening the room immediately.

My chest fully exhaled. The darkness of the room covered me—just another day in this hellhole. I turned back in the room, even in this dark room, I could make out my bed, a grand king-sized, fully made. Nothing in this house was ever out of place.

I moved to the door, hand gripping the door knob as tightly as possible.

It was always an excruciating pain to go out there. Being in this home was like being in a dungeon, one with plush pillows and expensive art.

I pulled open the door, the lightness of the hallway illuminating my face.

I stepped out, my shoes echoing as I made my way to the stairs. I stared down at them,

“If I fall down them…” I pondered for a moment, “How long would it take for anyone to find me?” My teeth gritted, my hand holding the railing.

“Mrs. Ballard?” The maid's voice brought me back, my eyes shifting to her. “I have already prepared your breakfast, it’s set on the table. Is there anything else I can get you?” I shook my head, “Mr. Ballard should be returning home tonight, shall I prepare a special-”

“No.” I quickly let out, “No special dinner.”

My gaze ran to my feet, “Just make sure the fridge is stocked before you leave today, please.” I looked back up at her, and she didn’t seem at all shocked at anything I said. “But thank you.” I gave her a weak smile before continuing down the stairs.

I sat down at the kitchen table, staring at my breakfast.

“Ha..” My laugh echoed in the dining room. It was already midday, and I was staring at the avocado toast. I think I’ve eaten this same thing every day for a year.

I rolled my head on my shoulder. If I didn’t eat it, she would tell him, and then it would be a nightmare. I plucked it up and took a bite. Bland. Everything tasted so bland now.

-------------------------------------------

I sat on the ground, my fingers digging into the warm dirt. I had planted peonies this year, they were hard work but still kept me busy. They’ll die and then I will find another flower to take their place.

My head tilted as I heard the roar of a vehicle. I looked over the driveway to my house, seeing the black Cadillac pulling up.

“So early?” I pressed my lips together, seeing our driver exit his side and make way to the front of the door.

I giggled lightly, knowing what it meant. He wasn’t in that car. Of course, he wasn’t; that vampire never showed up here before dark. My attention went back to my garden, my mind carelessly busy as I tilled the soil.

“Mrs. Ballard?” I heard his voice,

“Mr. Ballard is at his office?” I said, “You didn’t have to come all this way to tell me that.” I tossed my garden shovel, my eyes moving up to the older man. I gave him a weak smile before I dusted my hands. I pushed my body to stand-

“MRS. BALLARD?!” I felt our driver's hands gripping the sides of my shoulder, and quickly, I shuddered, focusing on his face.

“What happened?” I asked, his face was in horror,

“You nearly collapsed-” I pushed myself back a little, laughing.

“Oh- don’t you worry.” I forced a smile onto my lips. “I must have tripped.” He wasn’t buying it,” I’m just so clumsy, Mr. Dunn.” I swallowed hard, “I’ll just take myself inside.” I began to walk to the house before I turned my head back. “Don’t tell him, please, I just-” I smiled, “Was a little light-headed.” I walked quickly to my house, trying to shudder myself from his stare.

-------------------------------------------

I had fallen asleep, groggily, my eyes opened as I stared at the ceiling. My fingers grabbed the side of the bed, and my realization upon grasping the covers.

Alone. I was always alone, so why did I still reach out? I still always reached out. I sat up in bed, eyes moving around the room.

I grabbed my phone next to me, seeing the time. Already, I had slept through another day. My hands moved up to my throat. Dry. Of course it was, all the medication made it dry.

I ripped the covers off, moving from the door and down the stairs. I could hear every step I took as it echoed through this mansion. I made my way to the kitchen, opening the fridge and taking out a large water bottle.

I chugged it down, my throat feeling relieved as it ran down the sides of my mouth- I heard a pair of steps stop next to me.

My head turned to the doorway, my eyes large as I ripped the water away from my lips.

He was standing there. His tie was undone, eyes clear as day on me. I felt my stomach drop as his cold gaze ran shivers down my spine.

He was back. I didn’t hear him- not one bit. It couldn’t have been more than a moment, but it felt like a year. His gaze was all but screaming at me. Actually, if he did scream at me, it would be better. It was the utter silence that encompassed us that riddled my mind. Without another word, he turned back and left me. I took a step back, blinking hard as I stared at the floor.

My husband was back.