Edward had a theory. That was that people who had some happiness, or at least some positive motivation worked more effectively. So John had revenge of a sort, Benny had his fix, and the girls got their small doses of obliviation... and other little treats. And, all of his other "personnel" got something. It didn't take Edward long to realize Jackson was not happy at all about losing control of his personal pet. In fact, the third or fourth time Jackson arrived to find me engaged in some harmless activity while seated on Benny's lap... the whole house heard his displeasure.i eyed him warily. Benny ignored him. John had that gleam in his eye he got when he was figuring someone needed a good dose of act right. i had been one of Edward's girls for about 3 months then. As, Edward had promised on that first night, i was adjusting to my new life. i was getting to the point where i often didn't cry on dates. i had learned how to woo John's pocket without annoying him. And, i had began to really enjoy being Benny's favorite. i liked my fairly safe post on his lap. i still thought often about escape, but i was beginning to accept my fate.And, then Jackson pitched his fit. He ranted and raved and called me every foul name he could conjure. i was not supposed to have a single second wherein i didn't feel wretched. John watched this display for a while, looking like Christmas had just come early. When Jackson finally reached out and jerked me off Benny's lap, knocked me to the door and dealt me three smart kicks to the ribs, Benny erupted from his chair. The two of them drug Jackson away from me. Then they proceeded to take turns holding him while the other punched him repeatedly in the ribs. i couldn't find the air to ask them to stop, please stop before they made it worse. Suddenly, i couldn't seem to breath at all. i knew there was definitely something badly wrong with me.Finally, John ended this beating by saying very softly, "Don't damage the merchandise, asshole," and punching Jackson in the face. He went down like a lead weight. Benny added one last kick then came over and examined me."Oh fuck, John. I think she needs a doctor," he sighed while prodding my ribs in an extremely painful fashion. John glowered at Jackson a minute more. Then he turned to the table where Pearl and Lindy sat completely frozen."One of you go tell Edward we have a situation."
