His Little Rules

“Back then, when you gave me candy, you said that eating something sweet would make me feel better.”

“Now it’s my turn to take care of you.”

I thought he was just saying it.

Until he hauled me out of my rental and pushed me into the passenger seat of his car.

“Why are you still awake at eleven? Who said you could rent a place without security? Move in with me tomorrow.”

I protested, “What gives you the right to boss me around?”

He looked at me, his eyes frighteningly dark.

“That candy you gave me back then gives me the right to take care of you for the rest of your life.”