Monster 20

Monster

“Let me look.” Monster appeared in the door of the kitchen.

I raised my face to meet his eyes, the ice pack still pressed against my rapidly swelling face. I tried to smile but it just hurt too damn much.

More gently than I had ever thought possible, he moved my hand down. With me sitting on the countertops, we were at eye level. His were dull, washed out. I had never seen them like that before. Tilting up my chin, he studied the marbled bruise that was already spreading across my face.

Not even expertly applied make up was going to be able to hide it.

“Shit.” He swore, stepping back. “That's gonna leave a nasty bruise. Nothing broken though, right?” His eyes flicked towards Gypsy who was washing her hands at the sink. I didn't know why he was looking at the little hippy chick but he seemed to be waiting for her to reassure him.

“Nothing broken, Monster. Angela is going to be sore for a while but there's no permanent damage.” Turning, Gypsy gave me a wide smile. It was the