28
Stretching and loosening both legs, I hear him coming.
I run my fingers through my hair, straightening it the best I can.
I flatten my cheerleading outfit.
I drink a little water and wet my lips.
And I wait, for the echo of his feet to bring him in through the doorway.
He steps into the dim light of the room with a new bucket of water, a bar of soap and a white hand towel draped over a forearm. My latest request.
I say I want to look nice for him when the time comes.
I'm waiting for him as he approaches. Standing in the arc of the light. My eyes as big as a baby deer's. I look up at him with my widest, brightest smile.
He stops. Taken aback. He sets down the bucket, not taking his eyes off me. He stands in front of me, twice my height, staring, breathing heavy.
"I'd like us to
