Page 31 of Pucks and Pups
Lie, you dumb fuck. Lie!
Me: Maybe we should have this conversation in person.
Clara: Or you can be honest.
I swallow hard as her next message comes through.
Clara: How many times?
Me: I’d really rather have this conversation in person.
Clara: Answer the question, Riggs.
I’m tempted to ignore her request. I could reasonably act as though my phone is dead since I’ll be home in twenty. I’m at the airport, sitting in my car since the notification came when I got into the driver’s seat. We took an early flight in since the game went into overtime last night and I didn’t want my team on a late-night flight. I think it is better for Clara and me to discussthis in person, but this may be easier. Not having to see the disgust on her face. I sure as hell don’t want to lie to her. Maybe admitting my guilt will help ease it.
And lose my dog sitter and possibly bring a lawsuit.
No big deal.
With shaky fingers, I type back.
Me: I’ve only checked the camera in the bedroom twice, and the one at the front every time you leave to make sure you’ve locked the door. I can show you my history. It registers when I log on.
It doesn’t take long before she writes me back.
Clara: Twice in the bedroom? You watched me in the bedroom? When? This morning and when?
Me: I didn’t watch you. I just checked.
Clara: When was the other time?
I don’t have to answer her; she knows, and while it was the best orgasm of my life, I feel like shit for it.
Me: The first night you were there. I wasn’t expecting you back so early. I wanted to be sure it was you.
Bubbles appear then disappear, and then nothing comes for a full minute. I close my eyes, knowing I’ve fucked up. I’m tempted to go to the arena and wait for her to leave the house so I don’t have to face her, but I’m no coward. I fucked up. I need to apologize, but I want to do it in person. I start my car, and right as I go to back out, my phone sounds. I look down to see it’s her, though I knew it would be.
Clara: Did you watch me?
I shouldn’t answer. I don’t want to upset her, but the damage is already done.
Me: When?
Clara: Riggs. Did you watch me?
Me: Can I please talk to you when I get there? I’m on my way.
Clara: Answer me.
Me: Yes. I watched you.
Clara: Why?
Me: You know why.
Clara: I do?
Me: Yes.
