I used to check Facebook every few minutes for Simon's green dot, then I could engage him in some banter. Between times I did my research on topics he liked so that I could be more informed, more interesting and cooler than his girlfriend. But now I can barely look. Every other post is of him and Jade in scuba gear or swimwear. Jade smiles vacuously from each shot, pouting, head tilted, showing her new tan against her white-blonde hair. I could snap her pretty neck in two. She's just a toy really, but boys can be so precious about their toys, can't they? I'd be dead to him if he ever found out. It kills me to type light hearted comments and click "like" but I have to. Anyway, he's back in a week and I've almost finished installing the bugs and cams. He'll return to well watered plants and a happy cat, then I can sit back and gather intel. The more I know the better plan I can devise. Then he'll really be happy, he'll get the woman he deserves, someone who really loves him.
The door has barely swung closed when Matilda's heart skips a beat. On the coffee table that was clear just that morning lie acorns and oak leaves in every shade from green to golden-tan and chestnut. "Little Squirrel," isn't that what Lee had always called her?