“You know what he does, who he is. He’s not there now, is he?”

“No, he’s not,” I said.

“I know. Because if he were there, you wouldn’t be able to talk to me. Because he’s controlling too,” Todd said.

“Todd, this conversation isn’t about Elias,” I said.

“Isn’t it though? Look at what he’s done to you!” Todd said.

“Todd, you clearly want to get this off your chest, so go ahead and get it off,” I said.

“You’re a good person, Kayla. Kind and true. Why would you do this?”

“I know you think you deserve answers, Todd, but how I live my life is none of your concern.”

“I love you. That makes it my concern. Do you love him?” Todd asked.

“I…I’m happy,” I finally said.

“You didn’t answer my question, Kayla,” he said.

I stayed silent, telling myself that I would let Todd say what he felt like he needed to, but that would be it. Elias and I were up in the air, but that didn’t involve a third person. And I wouldn’t let it.

“Do you know where he is right now? What he might be doing? I bet you won’t even let yourself think about it. Who he might be killing—or fucking,” Todd said.

“Todd, if you’re going to get vulgar, I’m going to leave,” I said.

He laughed, the sound bitter. “He does God knows what, but a swear word from me and you can’t take it.”

He went quiet, and I could practically feel him seething. “Fine, Kayla. Do it your way,” he said.

There was a defeat in his voice, and I was happy to hear it. Sad at what it felt like I had done, but happy that Todd finally seemed to be understanding.

“Take care of yourself, Todd,” I said.

“You do the same, Kayla. Though I think you need to hear that more than I do.”

“Good-bye,” I said.

He hung up without saying anything.

I put down the phone, the relaxation of the bath gone.

As I emptied the tub and put on pajamas that I had stolen from Elias, I couldn’t help but think of Todd’s words.

I had no idea what he was doing, or who he was with, but I could guess. I knew that much of his business took place in clubs, gentlemen’s clubs, strip clubs, high end brothels, everything from seedy to world class.

And I had seen the woman he had entertained over the years.

None of whom looked like me.

Was this how he thought a “marriage” would work?

He’d stick me somewhere and then go do whatever he wanted with whoever he wanted to, leaving me with no say?

That wouldn’t happen, something I intended to make very clear to him when he got back.