Denver

Chapter 2

I arrived home fifteen minutes before my curfew feeling exhausted. My feet are sore and I desperately want to just relax in the shower then go to sleep, but I have to cook dinner for Jared.

I was already a bit behind my normal schedule so I immediately began cooking after removing my shoes. I decide on making a simple dish, spaghetti. My Mama taught me and all my siblings this recipe. She is an amazing cook.

The thought of her makes a huge lump form in my throat. I terribly miss her.

I gently plate the food, even adding a little garnish on top to make it look even more appetizing.

Finally done with all my duties for the day, I hop in the shower. Just when I turn the water on, I hear Jared come home. I decide to just greet him when I'm done.

-

I began putting my night dress on when I heard an angry Jared yell my name. I freeze in my spot trying to figure out what I did wrong. My body instantly begins to tremble, I don't want to be punished.

All I know is that it can't be about Denver, how could he have found out?

I quickly walk to the dining room where Jared is eyeing the pasta I made disgustingly. "Yes?" I say softly, stopping when I'm right in front of him. He looks down at me, staring my fear filled eyes.

"What the fuck is this?" He yells, gesturing at the plate.

"S-Spaghetti." 

"The last time I remember spaghetti isn't supposed to be goddamn sweet!" He shouts in my face. Sweet? I didn't put anything sweet-

I probably mixed up the salt with the sugar.

God why can't I do anything right. I just want one day, one day without a punishment. "I-I'm sorry, I w-was tired because o-of work and I must've-"

"I don't have time for your stupid ass excuses Gabriella. I warned you before leaving, I said don't fucking mess up for one day. Just one day, but you couldn't do that for me." I look down ashamed of myself. Why do I always have to mess something up.

"I-I'm sorry Jared, I'll fix it right now-"

"Go get the belt." He interrupts.

Noo, I inwardly cry, I hate the belt. "I'll be good, please. J-Just not the b-belt."

"Are you talking back to me?" He says looking directly into my eyes, not even blinking.

"I-I would never t-talk-

"Good, so don't make me say it again."

I hesitantly turn around to go retrieve the belt. I walk slowly, trying to stall my punishment. A single tear trickles down my cheek as I open the closet. There hangs the plain black belt that I absolutely despise. Another tear escapes from my orbs but I quickly wipe it away. I have no reason to cry, I deserve the beatings.