I hum to music and fix up my special lamb with all the fixings. I hear the keys jiggle and I actually smile a little.

"Hey," I offer when he steps into the kitchen. Loosening his tie he stares me down, eye's flaring, "Don't do that. What the fuck you think you doin'?"

"What?"

"You dressin' up for Shawn or something? You expecting somebody?"

"N-no," I stammer, confused. Doesn't he remember? That's when I spot a forming hickey on his collarbone. I swallow the growing lump in my throat. I state calmly and solemly, "I just wanted to change it up."

"Well change out of that shit." I nod and say, my voice small, "Okay." I practically rush off. I then lock myself in our bathroom. Hot tears stream down my face as I sink to the marble floors. "And take off your makeup!"

I should've known. I silently scold myself. I will myself to stand and I take a quick shower. When I come out, I change into my mightgown, leaving the robe off. 

Taking a deep breath, I try to calm my nerves before I open the bathroom door. Out in the dining room, I quickly serve a waiting Jerome his anniversary dinner. Almost immedietly I turn to leave.

"You're not eating?"

I pause, forcing down my tears, "No, I...I ate enough when I was cooking. There's enough for your lunch tomorrow if you want."

Before he could say anymore, I retreat to the room.