a tense conversation
'Why did you do it?'
'Why did I do what?' she asked, picking at her teeth with a toothpick.
I glared at her, unamused with this game she kept playing. She glanced at me and upon observing my expression, she chuckled, and the noise, normally so bright and lovely, now sounded metallic, sharp, unsettling and I couldn't help cringing at it.
'Why do I do anything, dearest?' she asked slowly, eyes boring into me, eyebrow raised.
Meeting the stare, I noticed then the dare behind her eyes, as if she expected me to be unable to form an answer. I sighed and looked away, again annoyed with the way the conversation was going. I had an answer, I knew the answer even, but I could not be certain if providing that answer would be beneficial.
I heard her laugh softly and adjust in her chair before she said, 'So tight lipped today; am I going to have to bleed it out of you?'
'Oh damn you,' I said, fury flaring. 'Why do you insist on this portrayal of ignorance? It's me, me. I know you, you know me. Why are you playing this game?
Her eyes flashed, but her voice was calm in her response. 'Then answer my question. Why do I do anything?'
I had to say it, I suppose. 'Power, control, comfort. Any one of those things,' I replied, exasperated.
She smiled at me and instead of the desire to return her smile, I felt my blood run cold. Such a sinister expression it seemed to me.
'Little Ashley doesn't seem to approve. I wonder why that is.'
I remained silent, holding her stare, entirely unsure of what response would be appropriate.
'At least you caught up.'
'I'd be an idiot not to.'
She hummed. 'You'd be surprised what other people will never notice.' She took a drink from her glass and chuckled again. 'So yes, power, control, comfort. It's worth it, you know. You don't seem to believe me. But in truth, Ashley, I don't give a damn what you think.'
~nan
[The things I've been reading have inspired me to write in this frame. Something about it is fun, the tension, the rage, the carelessness.]