Why did he fuckin ask that of me? For me to give him my soul and body when he doesn't give a damn, why did he ask? Casey's reflections did not hold the answer. Only Derek knew. But she couldn't ask him. Then he would know that she cared too much. She didn't want him to think that she cared despite everything. If she cared, she would be weak...everything Derek already thought she was. But she didn't want to prove him right.
Casey grabbed a bottled water from the fridge.
Nora asked as Casey began leaving with her school books, "Honey, don't you want breakfast."
"No mom. Im not really all that hungry." Casey answered looking at the books in her hand.
"I think you should eat something. Its nasty when a girl can see her own ribs." Derek sourly said.
"My ribs dont stick out." Casey announced.
"Like I know if they do or not. But I'm sure if they don't now, they will later," Derek replied, looking at Nora, playing on her need to ensure Casey's health.
Casey interrupted defensively. "Why do you care?"
He grinned. His voice silky and low "I don't. I just like making things difficult for you Casey. Its rather enjoyable. For someone so smart you know so little."
Casey stared at him. Tears filled her eyes and she hurried out of the house ignoring Nora's shouts for her to come back.
Nora turned to Derek. And spoke gently but firm. "You really upset her. I know you think its just a game, but Casey takes things so seriously. This isn't fair for her. I think she deserves an apology. "
"Id only be to happy to apologize, but I'm not sorry." he explained matter of factly taking a bite of a poptart.
"You made her cry and you don't feel bad?" Nora asked in disbelief.
Derek looked in her eyes. He wanted to tell the truth for once, say 'no' get up and leave. But he knew he couldn't, plus lying was much more fun.
"Of course I do. I'll talk to her at school," he answered with remorse. Nora smiled and patted her stepson's hand before pouring herself another cup of coffee.