Payback

(...)

I just thought since you're so much into payback...

Oh yes, thank you so much for that. Reliving that almost drowning experience

was so refreshing...

Only evening up the scores.

Oh yeah, did you just almost die too? - I ask, freezing cold and dripping water, a little puddle forming under my feet.

Please, don't be so over-dramatic...

Well, excuse me, my lord. Shall I not survive the next time so you can have a clean slate?

You're doing it again - he says, furrowing his eyebrows in consternation.

What, protesting against cruelty...?

No, over thinking - he sighs, as if annoyed that I don't understand the rules of his stupid game.

Ok, enlighten me... - I cross my arms, so he doesn't see my hands start to shiver from the cold.

Oh, it's quite simple actually darling. I kissed you, which was obviously your fault, you kissed me back... and I'm guessing it was neither for revenge or a thank you for the fact that I saved your life... again.

And this? - I asked, pointing to myself before he could start to enjoy the sound of his voice even more.

Oh yes, that... - he smiles in a dark way, that gets me shivering again, this time it's not from the cold.

I had to show you how your recklessness can turn against you... you do not respect your life - he crosses his arms, mimicking mine and his smile widens.

What...?! You threw me into the water!

I thought it would be good for you to taste your own medicine - I stare at him for a moment too long, processing what he had just said and I just burst.

I knew it! I knew you wouldn't forgive me for that! All that rubbish about my recklessness and this was about your swollen pride and damaged overgrown ego... - I almost scream out, staring at his peaceful composure. He's not even bothered.

Oh, don't be silly love. My ego is at a perfect level. Besides it looked like you needed a bath - he crinkles his nose and smiles playfully - You're welcome...

I throw my hands in the air, exasperated and groan with growing fury. I'm just about to throw a bunch of invectives his way when I actually notice my surroundings. I look around and my mouth literally drops. I stare wide-eyed at the long river that floats out of the deep blue pool next to me... I look up at the high wall of the crater and listen to the water "happily" splashing around. Then I look back at the devil.

What, no more arguments? Honestly, I was just getting in the mood. You haven't even heard my best lines - he says, pretending to be a boxer and throwing his "punch lines" in the air.

What is this place...? - I asked amazed.

This little old thing? - He looks around, spreading his arms - Only my humble living quarters... I call it the garden. I think humans are familiar with the concept, hmm?

I don't even answer him, willing myself to finally move and inspect the place. I look at the rocks and notice the oversized plants sticking out. They look like gigantic fern plants. The view was amazing. Did I just end up in the dinosaur era? Cause it definitely looked prehistoric to me...