Don't let them know you can see

7

Ethan blocked the doorway, refusing to let me in. "Honey, it's a mess in there. I'm cleaning up. Can you wait a bit before using the bathroom?" I pushed past him, feeling my way inside, while Ethan silently supported me. The bathroom was filled with a pungent odor, a mix of toilet cleaner and disinfectant that was almost suffocating. "Why'd you use so much disinfectant? It's overwhelming," I complained, covering my nose.

Ethan's response was indifferent. "Just sanitizing, killing germs, making sure it's safe for you, dear." I didn't press further, just grimaced and motioned for him to leave so I could have some privacy. Ethan gave a half-smile, stepped away from the door, and pretended to leave, but I heard him pacing nearby, feigning his exit.

Frustrated but unable to confront him, I resigned myself to pretend ignorance and used the toilet. I couldn't understand why he felt the need to watch over even this private moment. I bowed my head, avoiding any chance of eye contact, and pretended to be occupied. Soon, a strong smell of blood wafted over, overpowering even the disinfectants. I decided to act as if I hadn't noticed, tilting my head and pretending to strain, my face turning red with the effort.

While reaching for the toilet paper, I accidentally knocked the roll off, scattering it on the floor. Seizing the opportunity, I called out without looking in Ethan's direction, "Ethan, can you grab me a new roll? I've dropped this one!"

Ethan, clearly annoyed by my lack of grace, reluctantly pretended to re-enter the room, asking softly, "Did you call me, honey? I didn't catch that outside. Did you need more paper?" His cunning way of feigning ignorance to cover his tracks was exasperating, but I had to keep my composure. "Yes, I need more paper. Please get a fresh roll," I requested, barely hiding my irritation.

As soon as Ethan left, I hurriedly sniffed around, confirming the presence of the blood scent, disturbingly close. Our bathroom wasn't large, with the shower and bathtub installed for my bathing pleasure, separated from the toilet area by just a curtain. Ethan had the bathtub installed under the shower so I could enjoy baths after rinsing off, a small luxury in our otherwise tense household.