When His Eyes Opened

To his surprise, his call was immediately answered. 

“I’m coming back tomorrow,” her voice was calm and unwavering, “let’s talk then.”

All the rage and fear storming within him was instantly overpowered.

Elliot thought back to what Ben said. Ben said that Avery knew how to manipulate him and was very successful atit.

It was not until that moment that Elliot understood what Ben was trying to say. Indeed, Avery had him wrapped around her fingers. All it took was a few words from her and he would choose to believe her without a doubt even when all proof suggested that she had betrayed him.

“Avery,” he called out her name in a hoarse voice before hanging up.

Avery could tell how hard he was struggling from his voice. He must have watched the video and suspected her role in it, or he would be in so much pain.

“Elliot, I know it’s difficult for you to trust me,” she struggled to explain under the tension between them, “when I saw the video, even I thought it was me.”

He listened to her quietly and his raging emotions began to settle down.

over and over again,” she said with a lump in her

to tug at her clothes and asked,

voice. “Go look after the

they ended the

“Mom, are you talking to Dirtbag Dad? He

crying, but her eyes were turning red. Layla didn’t know what had happened, so she couldn’t understand why Avery was upset and had no clue that it had nothing

across the news, Avery said, “Layla, don’t play with phones

don’t have a phone!” Layla looked at her with

know that you always play with Uncle Mike’s

mother, Layla chuckled and stuck her tongue out.

Eric’s phone all the time as well, Mom. You are the only one

you do it because it’s bad

haven’t you said anything to him, then?” Layla pouted at

know why. I took Hayden to see the

computers even if you buy me one, Mom. I’m just envious of how great