Page 35 of Siccitas

I know Luke isn’t done with me.

I’m not done with him, either.

He stands up. “I will get us some water.”

He walks out of the room, and I swallow.

I look at the children, but I don’t want to say anything, especially if it will get them in trouble.

Luke comes back with a pitcher and pours water into each of our cups.

I gulp mine down and set it in front of me. “Sorry, I’m really thirsty.”

Luke eyes me out, “More?”

I nod. “Please.”

“Please, who?”

“Please, Daddy,” I breathe.

He fills my glass. “See, we can all have manners.”

I sip the water this time before I go back to my pizza. I eat slower than everyone else, but Luke makes the children sit there until I’m done.

“Right.” He claps his hands.

I don’t miss Richter’s flinch.

“You guys go outside to the field next door and play hide-and-go-seek. We’ll call you back when we’re done talking.”

“Yes, Daddy,” they chorus.

I watch as they leave.

“You have no intention of keeping me here.”

“Oh, I intend on keeping you here, Jocelyn. Why would you think so badly of me?” Luke holds his hands up. “Finish your water, then we’ll go check on Von.”

“Are you going to put him in the hole?”

“Only precious mistakes go in the hole.” Luke says, standing up and offering me his arm.

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