บททั้งหมดของ Dark (short stories): บทที่ 1 - บทที่ 10

Lila couldn’t stop thinking about the moment on the couch with Victor. His hand on her thigh, his breath against her neck, the way he had allowed her touch his body, It made her body burn with guilt and desire at the same time. She needed to talk to someone. She needed her mother.She quietly left her room and walked down the hallway toward her mother’s bedroom. The door was slightly ajar, and a soft light was on inside. Lila was about to knock when she heard her mother’s voice.“…yes, baby. Victor is still at that stupid business dinner. He won’t be back for hours.”Lila froze, hand hovering near the door.Her mother laughed softly. “No, he has no idea. He thinks I’m just shopping and spa-ing all day. As long as I keep him happy and don’t ask too many questions about his money, he doesn’t care what I do.”There was a pause, then her mother’s voice turned flirtatious. “Of course I miss you. Come over tomorrow afternoon when he’s in the office. We can have the whole house to ourselves…

Lila woke up the next morning with a heavy mix of guilt and confusion. The memory of Marcus’s hand in contrast with Victor's on her breast the night before kept replaying in her mind. She showered quickly, trying to wash away the conflicting feelings, then went downstairs.The kitchen was quiet. Marcus was already there, making breakfast. When he saw her, he gave her a soft, hopeful smile.“Morning,” he said, sliding a plate of pancakes toward her. “I made your favorite.”Lila sat down, forcing a smile. “Thanks, Marcus.”They ate together, talking about light things. Marcus was gentle and attentive, but Lila’s mind kept drifting to Victor. Every time Marcus looked at her with those kind eyes, she felt a pang of guilt.Marcus finished his breakfast and excused himself to go work on a painting in his studio.Lila stayed in the kitchen, cleaning up. A few minutes later, Victor walked in. He was dressed in a black button-up shirt with the sleeves rolled up, showing his tattooed forearms.

Ethan stopped.He turned slowly, staring at the man behind him.“What?”“You heard me.”Ethan blinked, then glanced down before quickly looking away. “Am sorry but is this how you speak to strangers?”“Not usually.”“So?” He titled his head slightly, giving him a questioning gaze.The man smiled. “You could say, I find you interesting ”Ethan shook his head, trying not to smile, his cheeks still heavily flushed. “You're really something.”The man finally worked on his trousers, tucking himself in. “What's your name?”“I believe I have no reason to tell you.”“Must you have a reason?”Ethan hesitated. “Ethan.”“Vincent.”“Nice meeting you, Vincent.”“Likewise.”Ethan turned towards the door, but the room seemed to tilt slightly. He held the counter for balance.Vincent noticed. “Are you feeling alright?”“I'm fine.”“You don't look fine.”“I had a little too much to drink.”“A little?”Ethan gave him a look. “Are you my doctor?”“No, but I can recognise someone who's had enough.”Vince

“Why are you two standing like that?”Chloe's voice pulled Ethan out of his thoughts.He quickly released Vincent's hand.“Nothing,” he answered.Vincent returned to his desk. “Your boyfriend seems a little nervous.”Ethan forced a smile. “First impressions, sir.”“Daddy, stop intimidating him.” Chloe pouted. “I haven't even said anything.”“Exactly, you are not saying it, you're doing it with your face.”Vincent chuckled.Ethan wished the floor would open.“Come on, let's sit. I'll get someone to bring us something to drink.”Chloe pulled Ethan towards the sofa while Vincent walked to the other side of the room.“So, Ethan,” Vincent began, settling into his chair. “What do you do?”Ethan cleared his throat.“I'm currently working with a marketing firm, sir.”“Interesting. How long have you been there?”“Almost two years.”Vincent nodded. “And what are your plans for the future?”Ethan glanced at Chloe.“I'm still figuring things out.”“That's fair.”Chloe rolled her eyes. “Daddy, he