The flickering light of a classic noir film dances across the walls of the private cinema room. It’s supposed to be a relaxing family evening. Arthur sits in the center of the oversized sofa, looking content, while I am tucked into his side.Ethan is seated in the leather armchair to our left, half-shrouded in shadow. He isn't watching the screen. He’s watching us."You’re so tense, Zola," Arthur murmurs, his voice full of a gentle, husbandly concern. "You need to relax, my love. Let the world go and let me show you how much I care."Before I can respond, Arthur reaches over. He takes my legs, lifting them with a slow, deliberate motion, and drapes them across his own lap. He begins to stroke my thigh, his palm moving in a rhythmic, soothing pattern. To anyone else, it’s a gesture of affection. To me, it’s a countdown to an explosion.I can feel Ethan’s gaze boring into the side of my head. In the dim glow of the movie, I see his jaw set so hard the bone looks like it might snap. His
Last Updated : 2026-02-03 Read more