Confronting Eleanor
300 Words
Lila’s hands were shaking.
She was here, she whispered. In our kitchen.
Adrian’s face was stone. No one gets into my home without me knowing.
He grabbed his keys. We’re going to her.
Eleanor’s penthouse. 40th floor. All glass and cold.
She was waiting. Glass of wine. Smiling.
Took you long enough, Eleanor said. Congratulations. I suppose.
How did you get in? Adrian demanded.
I still have keys, darling. To all your properties.
She sipped her wine. Force of habit.
Lila stepped forward. Stay out of our home.
Our? Eleanor laughed. This is still my son’s home. My company. My rules.
No, Adrian said. Not anymore.
He walked to her. You want to control me? You want to run my life?
Then do it from somewhere else. Because you’re not welcome here.
Eleanor set her glass down.
You’ll regret this. Both of you.
Maybe, Adrian said. But I’d rather regret choosing her than regret not.
He took Lila’s hand.
Change the locks. By tonight. Or I’ll press charges for trespassing.
Eleanor’s smile finally dropped.
Fine, she spat. You want her? Have her.
But don’t come crying to me when this fairy tale falls apart.
They left.
In the car, Lila was quiet.
Are you okay? Adrian asked.
I’m scared, Lila admitted. What if she
She won’t, Adrian cut in. I cut her access. To everything.
New locks. New security. New everything.
He looked at her. She can’t touch us.
He pulled over.
Lila. I’m sorry she did that. I’m sorry I brought you into this.
Lila shook her head. You didn’t. You got me out.
She leaned over. Kissed him.
And I’m not scared. Not with you.
Adrian smiled. First real one all night.
Come on, he said. Let’s go home.
To our home. With new locks.
To Be Continued
- Writer
