How did I get here?

That is the only thought in my mind as my eyes flicker open.

I can smell water.

The scent is that of wet leaves after a long cold day of rain.

Thankfully, the foul odor is only a slight distraction from the sight of the body I see draped over me.

Overhead, the stars blur in perfect sync with the rocking of the canoe.

A craving for a cigarette overwhelms me…

I reach for the pack in my pocket but I can’t seem to move.

I can’t do a blasted thing.

My arms have been tied too well.

The ropes ensure that I remain still, staring up at the sky.

How amazing it is…the stars are unreal tonight. Every one of them shines like an unattainable diamond of tranquility.

If only my mind could experience that type of peace.

Overhead, tendrils of mist begin to writhe around the pale moon.

Somewhere in the distance a pack of coyotes howl and yip like mischievous dogs. Despite their ungodly racket, I can still hear what can only be the dull roar of a rapidly approaching waterfall.

My thoughts wander back to that fun-filled occasion when I first began to suspect the truth about Dwayne.

Why does he do such horrible things?