Enticement

Even out of sight, surprisingly, the triple layer chocolate vanilla cake’s allure seemed to diffuse through the air and into his nostrils. No way. But somehow the sweet vanilla core found himfrom within its refrigerated confine. A fleeting glimpse, a sudden desire, an imagined scent. That couldn’t make Inigo succumb...

But it did.

He streaked towards the fridge. Frost slithered off of the cake cover as it popped open. The butter knife rose to Inigo’s hand. The last sense of self decency that remained within him battled for dominance, as the left hand pulled back the right in defiance, eyes struggled to look away, andforehead wrinkled in determination. But he was beaten. By the cake. He was trapped. By the cake. He was mocked, overcome, bested.

Conquered.

By the cake.

No final thoughts were given as all doubt went straight through the window. Inigo stood there, in awe. Then he dropped to his knees and from under closed eyes whispered, “I tried my best, but you proved the victor. Do unto me your worst.”

The melting fudge seemed to drip with sympathy as the knife sliced through, revealing the cake’s hidden flavors. “Nobody blames you for how heavenly we taste,” the candied strawberries seemed to whisper, “There’s no shame in admitting it.” “You’re a better man for it,” the white cream lulled, “even the strongest couldn’t have lasted minutes more than you”. “We respect you,” the dessert said in unison, “and we won’t tell.” Like magic, half the cake vanished in a flash. He was not full, but guilt would probably take care of that.

Then Inigo closed the cake, returned it to its cage, and went to bed, knowing the midnight cravings were yet to come.