The Web Tightens
304 Words
“Kristen, could you drop Tim at school tomorrow?” Toki asked over breakfast.
Before Kristen could answer, Williams spoke smoothly, “Of course she will. She’s wonderful with the kids.”
Kristen blinked, surprised, but she only smiled politely.
At first, it was little things. A ride to the market, picking up Toby from a friend’s house, helping with the groceries. Kristen told herself she didn’t mind—Toki was her best friend, after all.
But slowly, it became routine.
“Williams asked if you could help Toby with his homework tonight. He says you explain things so well.”
“Williams thought you should stay for dinner. The boys love it when you’re here.”
“Williams said he’ll drop you home later—it’s dark.”
Her own apartment felt emptier each day. She was spending more nights at Toki’s than at her own place.
One evening, when she tried to excuse herself early, Williams intercepted at the door.
“It’s late, Kristy. Roads aren’t safe at this hour. Why risk it?”
The nickname froze her. Kristy. No one had called her that in years.
She swallowed. “I… I’ll just call a cab.”
His hand pressed lightly against the doorframe, blocking her.
“Stay. Toki wants you here. The kids do. So do I.”
Something in his eyes made her stomach twist, but she forced a smile and nodded.
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Days blurred into weeks. The children clung to her more. Toki leaned on her more. And Williams… always there, always watching, always finding ways to bind her closer.
“Kristen, you’re practically family,” Toki said one night, hugging her tight.
Williams stood behind, silent, his gaze locked on Kristen like a predator on prey.
Kristen smiled weakly, but inside, she felt the walls closing in.
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- Writer
