Sneak Peak: Unprepared Daddy

Blurb

She can’t run away from me…she’s carrying my babies. 

Serena, you’re mine and only mine. 

I will bring you back…and make you beg. 

 

My life was just so perfect. 

Money, Fame, Women – you name it, I had it. 

And yet something seemed missing. 

Until Her…

Her delicious, curvy package was made for me. 

She’s a sweet and spicy seduction…completely intoxicating – you could call her every man’s dream. 

And yet, I was a jerk and let her go. 

I was a bigger jerk thinking she would wait for me. 

She says she doesn’t need me in her life now. 

But one look into her luscious eyes and at that pregnant belly, 

And I know…I will do all it takes to make her mine. 

 

Chapter One – Ben

“Thank you for coming everyone!” I yell over the microphone, slurring my words only slightly from the alcohol. “After yet another fantastic quarter you all deserve to party thanks to all your hard work at Katch Industries... that’s why I’ve purchased the most expensive champagne.”

A cheer bursts up around the room, effectively ending my speech for me.

I’m glad really, the company is doing so well that we have plenty of these events. There are only so many ways to say well done to everyone. I love my staff members, but they already know that. They don’t need to hear it every minute of every day.

Instead, I raise my glass and everyone cheers. As I stagger down from the stage, I’m swarmed by people. Not the managers of each department in my financial company but the staff from the bottom floor too. That’s why these sorts of events are a good idea. It gives everyone a little bit of access to me. I’ve learned over time that letting people feel connected to me means they’ll work that much harder for me.

It also means I only have to do it every so often. I’m a busy man, I can’t speak to everyone all the time. They know that, I’m sure they do.

“Thanks, everyone,” I say to everyone, no one in particular. “Your work has all been fantastic recently.”

I soak in the compliments I get in return like a sponge. I’m no different to anyone else, I need a boost to keep me going. “You’re all awesome. Please, enjoy the party.”

“Hello there, handsome.” As the sultry voice blasts into my ear I almost let my eyes roll to the back of my head in mild annoyance. I know who it belongs to without even turning around, but I also know from past experience that ignoring her leads to bigger trouble than just speaking to her. “That was a great speech up there, Mr. Ben Katch.”

“Thank you very much, Marie.” I plaster a fake, wide smile on my face. Even my teeth are showing “I didn’t know you were coming tonight.”

What I mean by that is I didn’t send her an invite, but I can’t be direct with Marie. Not unless I want another scene. No one has forgotten the Christmas party two years ago where she screamed at me and smashed a wine bottle all over the dance floor ruining everyone else’s night. And to think she was so sweet and innocent when I first met her... maybe it was my influence that ruined her!

“Oh well I saw it was happening and I just knew I had to come.” She waves her hand dismissively. “I have this new dress anyway that really needed an outing. What do you think?”

My eyes automatically travel down her body and unfortunately my sensibilities go out the window. Marie might be a crazy bitch but she’s hot enough to pull that off. With her slim waist, her peachy butt, and her lovely ballooned breasts that get her more glamour modelling work than most of the other models in the city, she has a fantasy, plastic doll style body, and I know she’s crazy too. Crazy and up for anything.

With the skin tight red dress that clings to every inch of her, leaving nothing to the imagination, and a plunging neckline that means I can almost see her nipples, she’s a wet dream. I already know Marie doesn’t like underwear, so she’s bound to be pantie free down there...

Fuck, I’m horny.

She can see it in my eyes as soon as I drag them back up to meet hers. The heady lust must be evident behind my gaze because she smirks knowingly.

Marie knows that when I’m sober and in my right frame of mind, I can’t stand her, her personality annoys the living hell out of me, but when I’ve been drinking I just don’t think straight. My cock takes over and I follow what it wants instead.

Marie knows that it always wants her.

“What are you doing to me, Marie?” I groan with my eyes falling closed. “Why do you have to come here dressed like that?”

“Because I want you! That’s why.” She snakes her fingers through mine and tugs me towards her.

I know I should resist, I know this is perfect moment to do so, but I allow her to take me with her. After all the hard work I’ve done recently, and after all the expense I put into this event, I feel like I deserve a bit of fun. “Come on, let’s go somewhere.”

She has me hooked, and she damn well knows it. As Marie drags me through the party she does so with a swagger in her step as if she thinks she has me. She probably likes the thought that she has control over the wealthy, powerful Ben Katch. What she doesn’t seem to realise is that I’m just letting her think that for a moment. Just until I get her alone.

I know it isn’t right to use Marie but when she throws herself at me, it’s hard not to. She knows I can have any woman in this room, and she’s aware that I just might. I could end up going home with someone else after being with her at the party.

Hey, what’s the point of being desirable, hot property if I’m not going to take advantage of that? I’m only human after all. Anyone in my position would do the same.

“Where shall we go?” Marie asks as soon as we head out into the hallway. She spins and hooks her hand possessively around my neck, but I don’t want her to kiss me here. Actually, I don’t really want her to kiss me at all. “Unless you don’t mind the idea of being caught out here by some of your employees. Could be fun, right?”

I glance behind her and breathe a sigh of relief when I spot the coat closet behind her. I already know that room is more than big enough for what I want to do from when I dropped my jacket off earlier. Without saying anything, I grab Marie’s hand and I yank her in there.

Once the door closes behind her, Marie turns into a dog on heat. She pounces on me and runs her lips all over my neck, seeming to sense that I don’t want her to kiss my mouth. As she does, my hands travel down her curves, down her body, until I reach the area where my throbbing erection is pressed up against my trousers, begging to be set free. I unzip myself and tug my trousers down to just below my butt, taking my pants with me. My cock springs free, eager and needy, just like me. I’m about to explode.

“Wrap your lips around it,” I command to Marie. I’m in charge now.

She smirks and takes me in both her hands as she falls to her knees with a shining glint in her eyes. She freaking loves sucking on me and I love her doing it. The crazy bitch has a phenomenal mouth... at least for that. Talking she’s terrible at, but I hope I can avoid that. She keeps one of her hands around my base and gently touches her lips to my tip. She flicks her tongue all over me, giving me those heaven like sensations that she’s so good at. My head lolls back, my eyes close, I run my hands through her hair as she sucks me hard and fast.

If I keep my eyes closed, I don’t have to remember that it’s her.

I hit the back of her throat, which is something that Marie hasn’t done before. It seems that she’s been practicing with someone else, maybe someone bigger than me. I probably should be a bit jealous about that but I’m not. I don’t care, it works out better for me. She’s even better now and I’m the one reaping the benefits of that.

“Oh fucking hell, that feels good,” I growl a bit too loudly. If anyone’s outside the door they can probably here me... but I’m pretty sure everyone knows what I’m like anyway so it hardly matters. My reputation is well known because a lot of the women I spend time with are well known. Not a list celebrities... not all the time anyway. “Oh God.”

“Say my name,” she murmurs against my cock, her words sending vibrations right down to my base. Her fingers tickle my balls, making it hard to think. “Say it, Ben.”

I’m not going to, there’s no way in hell that she doesn’t know that, she’s just trying her hand at taking control. I don’t want to think about her name, I just want her to be a faceless fuck. She knows that, I’m sure she does.

“Get up,” I command instead. “I need you on your feet.”

Marie does as I ask and as soon as she does I spin her around. She flattens her palms up against the walls and spreads her legs like a good little girl. She knows how to be the perfect fuck for me, if nothing else.

I reach into my pocket and pull out a condom. However horny and animalistic I feel, I’m not going to slide into her without being wrapped up. I’m not an idiot, I don’t know where else Marie has been. I slip the rubber down over me with trembling, excitable fingers, and I move my hands next to hers, and I push myself into her with one sharp movement.

“Oh God, Ben,” she gasps noisily. “Oh fuck, you feel so good.”

She pushes her butt out allowing me to get deeper in so I plunge in hard and fast. She is dripping wet, so excited to have me inside her that it doesn’t take long for her muscles to start contracting around me. She knows her body well, the sexual woman that she is, so as I glance down I’m not surprised to see her rubbing her clit n time with thrusts that I’m pounding into her.

That encourages me to pick up the pace and soon the hot bliss is exploding from me. It’s cheap, meaningless, and quick just the way I like it. I love the lack of complication, the ease as I pull out with my mind already on getting back to the party, I love this carefree lifestyle. I don’t think I’ll ever change it for anyone. It would have to be a really special woman to get me to even consider settling down. At twenty eight years old I’m still living it large.

“What are you doing now?” Marie asks me with flushed cheeks as she tugs her dress down. The lack of underwear made that very easy then. My trousers are already zipped up, I’m ready to go. “Are you going back out there or do you want to get out of here?”

Oh dear, she’s starting to get needy.

“I have to get back out there, Marie, this is my party.” I don’t want my tone to go cold, but it does anyway. “You know that. But... it was fun.”

“Oh right.” Her face falls. I do feel a bit bad but she did know this would happen. “Okay, well I guess I’ll see you soon then.”

“Yep, see you next time probably. Bye, Marie.”

I nod and push the door open before we end up in a deep and involved conversation. I still have so much partying to do, and the way I’m feeling I might find someone else to take home. I’m kinda still horny, but I want someone new, someone I haven’t had before, someone to teach me some new tricks or that might be a surprise. Why pick one woman to have for life when I can have them all? And I really can have them all...

Chapter Two – Serena

 

“Urgh, that was the most horrible day of my life,” I declare wearily as I flop down on the couch next to my roommate, Jenny Toffolo. “I hate temping it’s horrible.”

“Where were you today?” She pops her gum and doesn’t even take her eyes of the TV as she asks me that. I can hardly blame her. She’s probably as sick of hearing my work dramas just as much as I am of experiencing them. “The office with the mouth breather again? The one who always calls you Jeans even though your surname is Jones?”

“No, a factory today making train parts. It was horrible. Not only was it dirty, smelling, and incredibly boring, I had a guy next to me who’s been working there for years telling me that I was doing everything wrong. It was unbearable.” My eyes fall closed as the exhaustion washes over me. “I only started doing this temping hoping that one of the jobs would turn out to be a permanent position but that hasn’t worked out. Maybe it’s time to give it all up and start from the beginning again.”

I never told Jenny this, or any of the friends I’d made since moving to the city, but when I left my small town in search for a bigger and better life almost five years ago, I had this notion in my heart. I always held onto this dream that a better, more exciting life was waiting for me around the corner and that soon I would be swept off my feet and the old boring life I’d had before would be a distant memory...

Maybe I still feel that way. That doesn’t mean it’s going to happen though.

I applied for an apartment online and connected with Jenny which was a godsend, then I moved to the city with big wide eyes and a wild, dreamy nature. I couldn’t wait for my real life to begin... yet here I am, still waiting for my real life to begin. How pathetic is that? I’m twenty three years old now. It’s time to stop with the daydreams.

“Wait?” Jenny sits up straighter and she turns to look at me. “Do you mean start again as in get rid of the crappy temp agency, or give up and go back home?”

The last thing I want is to return back to that boring ass small town with my tail between my legs, but I might have to. I’m running out of money and I’m also running out of patience. It isn’t working, not really. I might need to just give up.

“I don’t know,” I admit with a shrug. “My head is all over the place. I don’t know what I want to do anymore.”

Where’s my exciting life? Where’s my Prince Charming? Where’s my adventure?

I don’t know what the interesting thing that’s waiting round the corner for me is, but I want it to come now. I’m desperate, I’m about ready to crawl out of my skin just to start again.

“You can’t leave me.” Jenny shakes her head so violently that her long blonde hair falls around her face making her look a bit comical. “You cannot, I won’t let you.” She grabs onto my arms and stares deeply into my eyes with nothing but sheer desperation. “They’re always looking for new girls at the club. Why don’t you do that?”

“At the club?” I screw up my nose in disgust. “I don’t know, I don’t think I’m the sort to work at a place like that.”

“We aren’t strippers,” Jenny exclaims, almost as if she’s shocked by my accusation which came out all wrong. I know they aren’t, I didn’t mean it like that. “We’re shot girls. We just walk around the rich men and hand out shots.”

“Yeah, in short skirts and low cut tops. You’re always complaining about the rich men getting handsy with you.”

“I’m never complaining about the tips though.” She pulls a wad of cash out her pocket that makes my mouth water. “I always get good pay from the job. Why don’t you just come and do it for a while, get yourself financially stable then look for another job?”

The thing about Jenny is she’s never short of money. She always pays the rent and bills on time, and she can afford nice clothes and meals too. She’s even been on vacation a couple of times in the last year which made me very jealous. She works far less hours than me too and is never as stressed. It’s like the ideal job, but I don’t know if I’m cut out for it.

“You’re really sexy though,” I pout. “You have big boobs and a nice bum, amazing hair and fab curves. Plus those legs that seem to go on forever more. I don’t have any of that.”

“You do,” Jenny insists. “You’re a raven-haired beauty with amazing pouty lips. And those green eyes of yours are phenomenal. You have a good body too, you just hold yourself awkwardly as if you’re always trying to cover up.” I don’t argue that point because it’s the truth of it. I do feel uncomfortable in my own body, I just feel like I’m never quite enough. “I think you should just give it a try, just for one night, see how you feel.”

I sigh and nod slowly. “Yeah, maybe I should.” I don’t like it much but I know I need to try unless I want to give up and go home. The thought of returning to my parent’s farm with all my old-school friends gone fills me with an intense sense of horror. “When shall I come in?”

“I can call my boss, get you in for a shift tomorrow tonight? I know you’ll need a sleep so I won’t say tonight, but I have to head out there anyway so I can pick you up a uniform if they say yes. What do you think? Do you want to? Please say yes.”

“Urgh, you know what, yes.” I stand up ready to fall into bed. I hope that after a couple of hours napping I’ll be ready. “I have to do something different to prevent me go insane.”

“Great. I’ll get it sorted.” Jenny looks far too pleased, she’s making me anxious that I’m not going to like it much after all. Maybe I’ll make a fool out of myself and hate it, but at least then I’ll know. I can still keep my position open at the temping agency until I know for sure anyway. “Ooh, this is going to be so much fun!”

I don’t answer her, I just give a weak smile and stumble into my bedroom. My white, empty room that doesn’t have anything in it because I just can’t afford anything. I need to do something with my life, I can’t keep on down this track. Maybe being a shot girl isn’t something exciting and drastic happening to me, but maybe it’ll just get me on the right track for a moment. All I need is enough money to keep me going, until I decide what to do next...

***

I bolt upright in my bed thinking I’ve only been asleep for a short while, maybe ten to fifteen minutes. I didn’t mean to collapse so quickly, I didn’t even change my clothes, I suppose I better do it before I really get into a deep slumber...

Huh? What?

A uniform hangs on my bedroom door, one that must have come from Jenny. But she didn’t intend to bring me one until morning... oh. The sunlight is streaming through my window, and not just the morning sun either. As my eyes glance down at the clock I can see that I’ve slept for so long it’s almost late afternoon. I can hardly believe it, I never sleep like that! What on Earth is wrong with me?

I rub my eyes and push my weary legs into a standing position before I make my way over to the dreaded uniform. The metallic silver skirt will barely cover my butt and the crop top that somehow manages to be low cut as well has the word CeeLow on the back which is the name of the bar. I already know it’s going to leave me much too exposed. I’ll be vulnerable, probably very cold, and just there to be grabbed. In the cold light of day, I don’t think it’s such a good idea after all. I run my fingers along the edge of the material and jump backwards as something falls off it and flutters to the ground.

It’s a note, from Jenny.

‘Don’t let the uniform put you off, just give it a try. Think of the money. Be ready by six. Jenny xx’

I roll my eyes and ignore the clothes. There’s no way I can think about them with so much sleep in my eyes. I need a shower, a hot coffee, and some serious time to get my act together. If I’m even going to consider this then I have to do it with all my faculties intact.

“Hey!” Jenny cries out excitedly as soon as she sees me. “I didn’t want to wake you because you looked so peaceful sleeping. All snuggled up in your bed and snoring loudly. Do you feel better now?”

“I don’t know,” I groan back. Obviously, I’m not really talking about the long sleep part, although that’s left me a little worse for wear too. I think I’ve slept far too much. “I don’t think I can wear that tonight.”

Jenny cocks her head and gives me a curious look. She’s already half way to getting dressed for her shift at work and she looks incredible. Intimidatingly so. I know if she wasn’t my friend I would never be able to work up the courage to speak to her. “Serena, have I ever steered you wrong before?”

“Well, there was the night at karaoke when we ended up getting sick behind the bar...”

“No, seriously, you have to trust me.” Jenny comes over to me and she takes my hands in hers. I can tell that she’s dead serious with her words, but I’m not convinced she’s right still. “If I didn’t think you could do this I wouldn’t suggest it. It’s honestly more fun than work and it’s empowering too.”

“Empowering how?” I don’t get that, I don’t see how flashing my body for cash is empowering but maybe I’m the one in the wrong. Jenny certainly doesn’t act like it’s a violation of her human rights or anything.

She chooses to ignore my question, brushing past it as if it doesn’t even register in her mind. “Trust me, once you have the uniform on and you get over those first day nerves everything will be fine. I was nervous too in the beginning, but now I wouldn’t do anything else.”

Knowing Jenny she probably gets job offers every day! She’s one of the more blessed people in life who has things fall into her lap. Either that or she’s a go getter who doesn’t wait for things to happen to her. I try not to think too much about that.

“I’ll have to trust you on that one... I need to have a shower.”

“Okay, cool I’ll help you do your make up and hair when you get out. I’ll make you look a million dollars honestly. You’ll love it.”

I move into the bathroom and flick the tap on, then I let me head fall into my hands while I wait for it to heat up a bit. Was it really that bad at the train factory? Am I really making a smart move? I don’t know. I don’t feel like I know anything anymore. I just don’t see any universe in which I’m going to be able to wear those clothes and not hate every second of it.

If only I had any other option...

Chapter Three – Ben

 

“Back again, Ben?” the flirty bar maid asks me as she slides me a drink. I should know her name really, I’m here so often, but I can’t remember it off the top of my head. “This is the third time I’ve seen you in the past week. Don’t you ever rest?”

“Not me.” I give her a playful wink. “When I’m not here, I’m just partying somewhere else. I can’t rest, not when there’s a whole world of fun to be had.”

“How are you ever going to settle down?” she giggled. “You can’t be out partying every single night when you’re all wifed up.”

“Not for a long time,” I insist. “I’m going to take my usual table out on the veranda. I’ve got some business associates here.”

“Business meeting? You bring them here now. That’s impressive.”

“It’s more like an entertainment thing. Got to keep the clients happy, you know how it is. Can you send one of the girls over to the table to get the liquor flowing?”

“Will do. Any preference?”

I slug the entirety of my drink back and give her a shrug. All the girls here are awesome to look at, I’m sure my friends won’t mind which one serves us. I can already tell they’re the type who don’t care what’s going on as long as the drinks keep on coming.

“We have a new girl. Maybe I’ll send her over to you. Drop her in at the deep end.”

I move away from the bar and push my way through the endless crowd that’s gathered in this place. It’s a high end, but accessible joint which makes it very appealing to guys like me. It’s posh and a great place for us to flash the cash, but it’s also casual and calm. I hate the pretentious over the top places worst of all. They’re always filled with old people who have sticks lodged firmly up their asses. Not for me at all, I just want to have a good time.

Once the cool night air brushes past my cheeks I scan my eyes over the crowds that have gathered outside. There are lots of business men all conducting their so-called business on the company accounts, and they’re all surrounded by the beautiful women that work here to serve them drinks. The girls must be even colder than I am in their barely there clothing, but the wads of cash that are being given to them as tips are keeping them warm.

They flirt, but they flirt for tips which is why I don’t ever sleep with them.

“Kyle!” my tone is jovial as I return to my table. “You like it here?”

“I sure do.” His eyes are practically bugging out of his head. “How could you not? No wonder you come here all the time?”

I chuckle loudly and look over to Kyle’s assistant. He looks less pleased to be here, but I think that’s because he’s rather be at home with his wife. That’s the problem with working in the finance industry and having a family at the same time. There just isn’t time for both. All the smoozing and partying in unavoidable.

Still, that’s what you have to do if you want to go far.

“He... hello?” a timid sounding voice comes from the side of me. “Can I... get you guys anything?”

I’m just about to make some sarcastic comment about her clearly being the new girl because she doesn’t have anything like the usual confidence and swagger of the normal girls, but before I get those words out I feel them get stuck in my throat. Sure, this girl isn’t like any of the other shot girls but that’s because she doesn’t look like she belongs... in the best way possible. Her long raven hair spills down her back, her wide green eyes are inviting, but they also look like they hold an endless ocean of secrets. I like her heart shaped face and pouty lips too.

Then there’s her body. She’s hunched over slightly as if she isn’t comfortable in her revealing clothing, but I can tell that she’s got a svelte figure and hips that I just want to sink my fingers into. Maybe my teeth too. She isn’t as obvious as the other girls, but there’s a real beauty to her. Maybe it’s because she’s more subtle, or maybe it’s something else. I’m intrigued to find out.

“Can we get some shots of your finest whiskey, please?” I ask with a smile instead. “And some beers, that okay with everyone?” Kyle nods once. “And also what’s your name?” Her eyes widen in surprise as if she wasn’t expecting me to say that. “If you’re going to serve us drinks all night long I’d like to have something to call you, that’s all.”

“Oh, right, of course.” Her cheeks tinge the most adorable colour of pink. It brings a smile to my lips without even trying. “Yes, you should know my name. It’s Serena.”

“Serena. That is a beautiful name. My name is Ben and this is Kyle.” I point over to his assistant, barely remembering his name. He pipes up in the coldest tone of voice known to man.

“I’m Rick. No booze for me please.”

“Rick, don’t be an asshole,” Kyle laughs. “Give the boy a drink. The fucker needs to loosen up.”

I see Serena blanche at the curse word which makes my heart unexpectedly to reach out to her. If she’s not much used to cursing then she’s about to have a lesson in how the other half live. At the moment everyone is being dignified and relatively well behaved, but the more drink that gets into them the more that will change. This will be like a freaking zoo soon enough. Serena needs to toughen up if she’s going to survive it.

“We’ll all have some drinks, thank you.”

As she walks away to get us what I’ve requested, an item that isn’t on her belt of shots, I can’t drag my eyes off her as she goes. She isn’t swaying her hips in an over the top manner, but for some reason to me that makes her even sexier. Rationally I know this isn’t the best plan, I usually avoid good girls like her. The more obvious ones might be more garish, but they also expecting so much less. Good girls want love, and I can’t give them love.

So why do I want to corrupt her so damn badly?

“She doesn’t seem like the others, does she?” Kyle comments idly. “She’s not as...” He struggles for words. “I mean, look at the blonde over there. She’s pressing her tits up into that guy’s face. I want some more like that.”

I roll my eyes dramatically at him. “I’ll get her over if you want, but I think we should keep Serena too.”

“Do you like her?” Kyle asks me with utter sarcasm in her tone. “She’s okay, but a bit boring.”

“I just... I think that it’s clearly her first day so maybe I should look after her a bit. The rest of the men in here are like animals.”

“You babysit then. I’m getting the blonde over.”

As he whistles and clicks his fingers to draw the blonde over, I catch Rick’s eyes. Suddenly I see my disapproval is mirrored in his expression. He doesn’t like his boss’s behaviour either... only probably for a different reason. I don’t know why but I don’t want him to act that way in front of Serena. I don’t want her to think I’m the same as everyone else.

“Hey everyone.” The blonde comes with a bright cheeky smile and popping bubbles with her gum. “How you all doing tonight? Can I get you anything? I’m Jenny, by the way.”

“We have drinks,” Kyle says in a leery tone of voice. “What we want here is a bit of fun too. Can you bring some fun over here?”

“I don’t see why not....”

Jenny leans over Kyle’s and they get to some serious flirting. I think it’s serious on his part but it isn’t on hers. Obviously. I’m not interested in watching that, I more looking forward to Serena coming back. And not just because of the drinks... although that’s what we came here for. I want to see her sweet little face again. She intrigues me.

My heart skips a beat as my eyes find her once more. I can tell she’s struggling to get through the crowd, no one is moving for her which irritates me. They’re all acting like they’re way above her. I don’t like that at all. She’s new here, she doesn’t deserve it.

I push my butt off my chair and go to greet her. My heart thunders so loudly in my ears that I don’t really think about what I’m doing. I just do it.

“Hey, move,” I growl at the drunken guy standing in front of her, swaying slightly. “The lady is trying to get past you. Can’t you see?”

He gives me a look, for a moment I think it might be about to break out into a fight, but then he sees the expression on my face and he cowers back. I must look furious, about ready to explode. “Yeah, sorry, I didn’t realise...” he stammers while stepping backwards. “Sorry, ma’am.”

Serena breathes out a sigh of relief and gives me a grateful smile. The cost of the bottle of whiskey in her hands is probably more than she can afford to pay for if it smashes. If this is her first day and she’s doing a job that clearly makes her uncomfortable, then I’m pretty sure she doesn’t want to break it. That’s why she’s being so over cautious with her steps. I know what it’s like to have no money, not that many people know that, so I can understand what she’s feeling.

“Come on, I’ll block your way,” I say kindly. “We’ll get through these pigs in no time.”

“Thank you,” she whispers back. “I hope I’ll get more used to this job. Right now I’m feeling really out of my depth.” She glances back at me with fear in her gaze. “Oh no, I probably shouldn’t have told you that.”

“Don’t you worry about me, I won’t tell anyone,” I reassure her. My hands automatically find their way possessively onto her hips as I guide her forwards through everyone. I like the way she feels between my fingers, this instantly sends my mind to a very dirty place.

No, stop it, I warn myself. This is a nice girl, much as I want to corrupt her I can’t. It just isn’t right. It would be a lot of fun... but still I can’t.

“Thank you,” she says quietly just to me as we finally reach my table. Her breath tickles my neck which sends a shiver tearing up and down my spine. “You’re very kind.”

I take my seat back down, trying to calm down my pounding cock. I’m too damn excited, this isn’t right. If I’m not careful Serena will start to realise how I feel about her and I’ll freak her out.

“Right, we’ll all have a round of drinks...” My eyes travel over to Kyle who is trying his luck with Jenny. It’s almost as if he doesn’t realise that it’s never going to happen. “Or maybe just me. I don’t think we should force Rick to drink if he doesn’t want to.”

He’s on the phone, desperately texting his wife. I feel bad for him all of a sudden. He really doesn’t want to be here and Kyle doesn’t need him. He should just send him home.

Serena looks horrified at the way Jenny is acting which almost makes me want to laugh. I don’t expect Serena to behave that way with me. The way that things are going, I’ll be giving her a hefty tip no matter what happens.

Chapter Four – Serena

 

I cannot believe how Jenny is acting, it’s all too much. She’s using the revealing clothing to her advantage and flirting to her heart’s content to get those tips. I can tell it’s all fake and that she doesn’t really like this Kyle guy – he’s much too old for her tastes – which makes it harder for me to watch. Am I to be expected to behave in that way? I don’t know if I can. I don’t know if I have that in me.

“Wow, they’re a bit close, aren’t they?” Ben asks, bringing my attention back to him. My shocked expression must be obvious because he continues reassuringly. “I don’t think the shot girls need to act like that, do you?”

“Erm.” I don’t know what the right answer to that is. “I don’t know. It is my first day so maybe I am supposed to act that way.”

My heart races, ice cold panic courses through my body, I feel utterly frozen to the spot. The thing is, Ben is tall, dark, very handsome, and he has striking features. His hazelnut eyes are luring me in, dragging me closer, but I still don’t think I can behave that way.

“No, I don’t think you are.” His warm tone dissolves some of the ice around me. “Not with me anyway. I just want drinks, and maybe a bit of chat.”

Oh God, he’s my ideal customer. I’m glad he’s my first one but I’m all to aware that not everyone will be this way. I’ve already had a sneaky hand trying to creep up my butt and I didn’t like it one bit.

“That sounds great.” My face breaks into a smile. “Whatever you want. I’m here.”

Over the top of Ben I can hear Jenny’s screeching laughter. She’s really enjoying this. I suppose I understand that, she’s an extrovert and the total opposite to me, but it makes me wonder why she thought I would like this. I’m not like this at all.

“I would like to learn more about you, Serena,” he says with a curious look. “But I know how awkward it can be to reel off loads of spiel about yourself so instead I’ll ask you questions about yourself. Nothing too hard, does that sound okay?”

The tight knot in my chest loosens slightly. Surely by standing here and chatting to Ben, I’m doing my job, and I can answer a few questions about myself, that shouldn’t be too difficult. To be honest by this point I’ll do anything to stay by his side rather than talking to anyone else.

“Sure, I don’t see why not. What do you have in mind?”

I expect him to start with something silly, such as ‘what is your favourite colour?’ but that isn’t what I get at all. Ben’s lips twist up into a smile and he begins.

“What are you doing in the city? I’m assuming that you don’t come from here?”

Oh. That’s deeper into my life than I expected. I don’t know how comfortable I am with sharing that much. Then again, it’s better than pressing my breasts into someone’s face. “Is it that obvious that I’m a small town girl?”

“Yes,” he laughs. “But in a good way.”

In a good way... hmm, I’m not totally sure what that means but I like the feeling of those words circling through my system. “Oh right, well yes, I moved here a few years back for job opportunities.” A thick blush fills my cheeks as I realise how ridiculous that sounds now that I’m standing here handing out shots. “I didn’t have a plan though which is probably why it hasn’t worked out so far.”

Ben nods slowly, but not in a judgemental way. For someone who clearly has a lot of success in his life that’s nice that he doesn’t immediately make all sorts of assumptions about me. “Right, okay, so do you have a plan now?”

Urgh, I hate that question because I really don’t. I can’t tell him I’m just sitting back and waiting for my real life to begin. “I don’t know, I’m still trying to figure that part out.”

“Fair enough, you’re a free spirit.” While I’ve never seen myself in that way, it’s nice that he does. I quite like him thinking that I’m just this cool, casual, easy going girl. “So when was the last time you had a boyfriend?”

I throw my hands on my hips and give him a defiant look, which isn’t like me at all. Ben’s eyes are drawing something out of me that I didn’t know was there before. “How do you know I don’t have a boyfriend now?”

“I don’t... I guess I phrased that question wrong.”

Damn it, now I have to admit the truth. Maybe I shouldn’t have acted like that because it’s me left humiliated now. “Oh well, I don’t have a boyfriend at the moment. The last time I was really with someone was in high school and he was... well, not good for me.”

In reality, my crappy relationship with Luke in school is one of the reasons I keep away from guys now. It might sound silly but I trusted him with everything. I thought he was the one in a naïve and childish way. I loved his preppy look and cheeky smile so much that I would have given him everything. I liked him for a very long time before he even asked me out.

When he did, I thought it was the best day of my life.

Things were going well for a while. The only issue I had was his popularity. He dragged me into his group of friends which meant I left all of mine behind, but I was too blinded to notice it. His friends were much more advanced than mine, into drinking and partying, into sleeping around without even thinking about it. It was in way over my head.

I didn’t want to cave, I didn’t want to become someone new for Luke but that happened eventually anyway. I let my school grades slip, I started partying, and eventually I slept with Luke. Then the very next day he broke up with me.

I lost my friends, my grades, my boyfriend, myself... all for someone who didn’t want me. Since then I’ve been on dates but if they aren’t Prince Charming they don’t get to stick around for long. I don’t have time for that. I cannot put my faith in someone unless I know for certain I can trust them.

“Yeah, I haven’t had many relationships either.”

As Ben answers me, I’m shocked. I would think that he has a different girl on his arm all the time... but maybe he does, he just doesn’t let them in. I might not have led that lifestyle myself, but I know there’s a big difference between sleeping with someone and letting them in.

“Wow, that’s... yeah. Erm, so when was your last relationship?”

“I didn’t know we’d changed the game around?” Ben chuckles at me. “I didn’t know it was okay for you to ask me questions... but since you want to know I had a girlfriend when I was twenty years old but it didn’t work out because I was a workaholic. I cared too much about my business and not her.”

“Oh. Right.” I don’t know what to say to that, maybe I shouldn’t have started asking anything. “I see.”

“So, my turn again.” He leans back in his chair and runs his eyes up and down my body. The stare is invasive, but weirdly I like it. It isn’t like me to want to be looked at, but there’s something about Ben’s gaze that makes me feel kinda sexy. Even my shoulders are rolled back as if I’m confident. “What are you normally dressed like? I can’t imagine you walk around like that all the time.”

“Oh I do,” I tease. “This is my clothing from home. It just happens to be right for the job.” I giggle playfully before giving him a real answer. “No, I’m usually in jeans and tee shirts. I would like to dress better but I can’t afford to. That’s why I’m here.”

Maybe that’s a bit too honest, but I’ve said it now. It’s out there. I would much rather him know that I’m here because I need the cash rather than him think I like it.

“Yeah, fair enough. I’m always in suits, I don’t know how to be casual. Maybe that’s my problem.”

Ring, ring... Ring, ring... Ring, ring...

I glance around, wondering where that noise is coming from. It can’t be me because I don’t have anywhere on my body to hold my cell phone. It’s safely locked in the work changing rooms along with everyone else’s.

“Is that your cell phone?” I ask Ben curiously. “It’s been going off for a while.”

“Oh is it?” As he pulls it out and he looks at the name on the screen, his expression falters. I already know that he’s about to leave me before he pushes his chair back. This is someone he needs to speak to. Thankfully because of the conversation I just had with Ben, I know it isn’t his wife. That would be really weird. “Hang on, I’ll be back in a moment.”

I watch him leave, admiring his butt as his quick steps move away from me. He’s damn gorgeous, and also the kindest person that I’ve met since I’ve been here. I’m not ready for him to go yet.

I stand awkwardly for a couple of moments at the edge of the table, but now that Ben is gone I can’t get away with sticking to this one table any longer. Jenny has pretty much got control of it, what with her flirting with Kyle like there’s no tomorrow.

I don’t want to go, but I’m going to have to if I want to make any money. Apparently the boss doesn’t like staff who stand around without doing anything, and I don’t want to get fired because of that on my first shift. I haven’t even made any tips yet. I need to at least give talking to other people a go.

I push my way back through the crowd when a man plants his big hand on my arm to pull me to his table. He has a thick Cuban cigar between his lips as if he wants to show how rich he is, and a group of men and a couple of young women who might possibly be escorts by his side.

“Yes, can I help you?” I ask through gritted teeth, trying to ignore the hot pain radiating through my forearm.

“Get us some drinks, love. That’s why you’re here isn’t it?” He laughs nastily with his friends. My eyes discretely turn towards Ben’s table because I miss him like crazy already. “Come on, we want a selection of vodkas.” He gives me a horrible look. “Well come on then, get to it. You aren’t thick are you? I haven’t grabbed the arm of someone stupid by mistake?” His eyes explore me, but it doesn’t feel anything like when Ben looked at me. I feel self conscious and uncomfortable all over again. “That would be a real shame since you aren’t even the hottest girl here.”

Tears sting the back of my eyes, I feel terrible. If this is what I will normally have to deal with then I don’t know if I’m strong enough to hack it. I can’t even argue back, this is definitely the sort of place where the customer is always right. I don’t think the asshole boss will like it if I start standing up for myself.

“Yes,” I whisper. “I’ll get your drinks for you. I’ll be back in a moment.”

Come back, Ben. I miss you so much! You’re the only person that I ever want to work with here. I need you.

Chapter Five – Ben

 

I race away from the table only because I know it’s my mom on the other end of the phone. It doesn’t matter what I’m doing, who I’m partying with, I’ll pretty much always stop them to speak to Mom. She needs me and I need her. All we have are each other in this world.

My dad died when I was just a baby so I don’t remember him at all. He’s always been like a ghost in my life, the man in the photographs and in my mother’s stories. Not someone attainable, but someone’s who’s always been there, affecting me all the same. His impact on me has affected my life from day one and I never got to know him.

Growing up in a single parent family, with a mom who worked every hour God sent just to give us a mediocre life, I knew I wanted more. I never wanted to live the same life as Mom and I wanted to make her existence better too. That’s why I’ve always worked hard, that’s why I obsessed over business and getting my qualification, that’s why I worked myself into the ground. I wanted to make a better life for me and Mom and that’s just what I’ve done.

“Hi, Mom, you okay?” I ask while glancing behind me to see where Serena is. I can’t see her anywhere. The only people still at the table are Kyle and Jenny. Maybe he’s finally done the decent thing and sent Rick home. “I haven’t heard from you in a while. Is everything okay?”

“Yes, yes,” her tone is warm but I can detect some loneliness there. I make a mental note to myself to make an effort to go and see her at the weekend. She doesn’t live too far away, just outside the city. I should be able to do it more regularly really, sometimes I get too caught up in partying. “I’m okay, thank you. I’ve been out with Vivian from Bridge Club today, we went shopping and for a coffee, so that was nice. Ever since her husband passed away she’s been struggling. I can help with that, you know?”

I gulp down the thick ball of emotion that lodges firmly in my throat. I don’t want to go down this road, not now, but if Mom wants to talk about Dad with me then I’ll let her. She might need that and if it helps her get through the day then so be it. “Yeah. You know what you’re talking about,” I rasp. “So it’s good that Vivian has you.”

“Oh I’m glad to have her too. It’s good to have friends.” She pauses for a moment and I can almost tell where her mind is headed. She has this funny notion that I’m the lonely one, despite the fact that my life is constantly filled to the brim. I’m always doing things, there’s never a dull moment for me. Why would I feel lonely ever? “So, how are things with you? Have you been busy with work?”

“Busy as always.” I puff my chest out proudly. “You know me, always got something on the go.”

“Yes... I know you have. What worries me is that you push yourself too hard. I just think by now you should delegate more and start taking some of your life back.” She only says this because she feels guilty. She doesn’t want to think that it might be her fault I work so hard, even though it really isn’t. I don’t blame her at all, I know that she did her best for us. “Shouldn’t you want to start... dating now?”

“I’ve been dating,” I insist. “You don’t need to worry about me on that front.”

“Well I don’t really mean dating. I mean settling down.” I roll my eyes, it feels like everyone is on my case about that at the moment. “I think it’s time you start finding someone to get serious about, don’t you? You need to find someone and settle down before it’s too late.”

“I don’t know, Mom. I’m not sure that’s what I want.” I might as well be honest with her. “I’m quite happy with the way things are.”

“You only think that because you’re out at the moment. I can hear the music thumping in the background, but what about when you’re at home lying in bed alone. Don’t you think it would be better to have someone?”

I don’t often spend the night alone, and when I do it’s because I’ve passed out, but I don’t think Mom needs to know that much.

“I’m good, Mom. Don’t trouble yourself. I’m doing well.”

“You might want kids one day,” she continues as if she hasn’t heard me. “The last thing you want to do is leave that too late. If you don’t... well then you won’t have anyone to love like I love you.”

I’ve always suspected that Mom wishes she had more kids but no one came along after my father. I’ve never even seen her show any interest in any man. Maybe my dad was just ‘the one’ and after the love she shared with him nothing can compare. It’s sweet, if not very lonely.

“If I ever decide to settle down, Mom, I’ll let you know, but for now...”

“Oh I know. She’ll have to be a really special girl to catch you’re eye, I’m just saying that it might be time to start looking.”

Inadvertently my eyes travel aback over to the table, just to notice that Serena still isn’t there. She must have got called over to another table which I don’t like. I was looking forward to asking her more questions and getting to know her better. I don’t want her taken away from me now.

“Yes, Mom, I know. I’ll think about it.” She doesn’t understand that being twenty eight isn’t a death sentence. She was married by twenty one years old so she doesn’t think that I should still be single. She doesn’t understand that I’m nowhere near ready. It doesn’t matter though, if it ever happens then she’ll realise that I was right to wait until I met the right person. “Anyway, I’ll pop over to see you at the weekend if you like, it’s been too long since I came to see you.”

“Oh yes, that’ll be nice. Come for dinner. It’s been a long time since we had a nice meal together.”

My stomach growls at the idea. “Oh that sounds great, Mom. Your meals are honestly the best. I haven’t eaten anything home cooked for ages.”

“So what do you eat?” I laugh at her horror. “I’m serious, are you having take away every night?”

“No, Mom I eat out too. And I always have my vegetables,” I tease. “You forget I’m a big boy now, I can look after myself.”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever you say. Just come over tomorrow lunch time, don’t wait until the weekend, and I’ll fatten you up, okay?”

“That sounds lovely.”

Just before I hang up the phone I cradle the phone close to my ear to feel closer to Mom again. I do miss her every day, but I can’t persuade her to move right into the city near me. She wants to keep the house I grew up in, the one she brought with my father. I guess she’s never gotten over his death.

As we say our goodbyes, I wonder again what it would have been like if my father never died. I try not to consider this much, but sometimes when I’m talking to Mom my imagination gets the better of me. He wasn’t ever an ambitious man, he was happy working a middle management job, but maybe if that drunk driver didn’t crash into his car as he drove home from work, we wouldn’t have struggled so much and I wouldn’t have developed my deep need for money. Cash represents a security I haven’t had before adulthood, maybe if I had a father I wouldn’t have become this way.

Then again, if I wasn’t like this I don’t know who I would be. It’s too weird to think about.

Once the call disconnects I pause for a moment, just trying to get myself back together. Mom makes me a little emotional, and emotion spells vulnerability in the business world and that’s the last thing I need added to my bad ass reputation. I’m known as someone quite ruthless and strong, not someone who chokes up after speaking to Mommy.

Right, Ben. I steel myself. Don’t think about that now. Think about seeing Serena again.

That intriguing, beautiful woman is fascinating, I really want to spend more time with her which is something I’ve never really felt before. Even my girlfriend I had when I was younger, Ally, never captivated me that much. She was pretty and fun, but my business always got in the way. I was just starting to get big then, I was on the way up and I didn’t want that momentum to end. She just couldn’t drag me away from it.

I don’t even think about her now, and I haven’t much since we broke up, which just shows how little she affected me. I imagine she’s married now to someone who will worship her in the way she deserves. That could never be me.

But maybe with Serena...

I don’t know why, and I’m certainly not thinking about settling down all of a sudden, but I do want to see her more. I like her face, her smile, her lilting laugh. I like the way she has been opening up to me as well. I can tell that she’s shy and usually quiet, but with me she gave me a bit of sass and that’s something awesome. I would like to see how far I can push her...

Not in a sexual way, I try to convince myself. I’m not that much of a pig... although I can’t help wondering what that pale skin looks like naked, flushed with desire, and with slick perspiration all over her. The image in my mind makes me bite down on my bottom lip in anticipation.

I move back to the table to see Rick back there looking glum. Kyle hasn’t taken his eyes off Jenny for hours, and judging by the bulge at her side he’s been paying her for the privilege.

“Where’s Serena?” I ask Rick. He looks at me blankly as if he has no idea who I’m talking about. “The dark haired shot girl who was here earlier on?”

“Oh, she’s over there.”

He points in the direction of another table and my heart sinks. She’s being pawed at like there’s no tomorrow and all I want to do is rescue her. The only problem is the man at the head of the table is Mr. Ash who has known Mob connections. I really don’t want to get on the wrong side of him and I know the money he spends in here will outshine even mine. I’ll just have to keep an eye on her tonight and intervene if things look like they get too out of hand. From the looks of it she has a bulge at her side too, so she must be getting good tips. Maybe she really doesn’t mind...

“Go home, Rick,” I say rapidly. “Kyle’s gone for the night. He won’t need you again.”

Rick bolts upright, taking my direction quickly. “Thank you,” he rasps. “See you later.”

I turn my chair around, ignoring Kyle completely. I only have one person that I want to keep in my eye line and it sure as hell isn’t him. I need to keep an eye on Serena, while trying to keep my protective inner beast in check. I can’t get in the way unless she absolutely needs me. No one will benefit if I act too soon, it’ll just end in disaster. Least of all Serena.

Chapter Six – Serena

 

“Is it really four AM?” I ask wearily as my aching feet throb in my shoes. “I can’t believe it’s so late.”

“Yeah, that’s the game when working in the shots game,” Jenny giggles as she replies, looking fresh as a damn daisy. How is it fair that she gets to look so good? I could scream with utter frustration. I haven’t looked in a mirror but I can guarantee that I look as tired as I feel. My bed is screaming out for me, but it’s too far away. I cannot wait to fall back into it... but it’ll be in the knowledge that I’ll be back here again soon enough, doing this all over again.

After leaving Ben, things quickly went downhill. The other man was horrible to me the whole time, touching me in ways that I really didn’t want to be touched and laughing at me when I asked him not too. I don’t know if I can complain about that, since it’s only my first night I don’t know if that’s just part of the game. It did get me plenty of tips, that’s the one good thing. I probably have enough cash stuffed in my pocket to pay my rent for the next three months... and that’s just for one night. If it keeps going like this at least I won’t have to do it for much longer.

“Are you coming out with me and some of the other girls? We like to hit up a bar after work to wash the night off us.” She narrows her eyes, examining me closely. “Although you might be too tired, huh? I remember I was after my first shift.”

I’m so grateful for the get out clause. I really can’t face being out any longer. “I think I better give it a miss tonight,” I say with pretend regret. “But maybe next time.”

“Will you be okay getting home? I know it isn’t far, but it is late?”

“No, I’ll be fine.” I don’t want to ruin her fun. “I’ll be home in a moment. I’ll send you a message as soon as I get in, you don’t have to worry about me. I promise you.”

As Jenny pulls me in for a hug, she asks me a question so quietly I can tell she doesn’t want anyone else to hear it. “Did you have a good time? It’s not too bad for the money, is it? Once you get used to the hours...”

“No,” I only half lie. “It’s not too bad.”

It would be just fine if I could serve Ben all night long, but once I got dragged off to that other table I couldn’t tear myself away. I saw him a couple of times and it looked like he was watching me. I hope I didn’t anger him by getting entangled by other customers. If only I could see him again to explain...

Maybe tomorrow.

Hopefully tomorrow although I don’t know if this is the sort of place people come to every single night. I haven’t quite worked out what sort of place it is yet, but judging by the snippets of conversation that I overheard it’s a joint where people feel more than open to discuss things that should be kept private; affairs, dodgy business deals, possible criminal activities. I heard all sorts. I guess the non disclosure agreement is in the job title.

“Good.” Jenny pulls back to look at me but her hands remain on my forearms where she fixes me in place. “So you think you’ll come back then? I have to let the boss know.”

I don’t know if I want to, but I don’t want to shut down the opportunity either. “Yes, I do want to come back, at least for a short while.”

She squeals excitedly. “Good, I’ll teach you some of my moves then, help you to get even more tips although to be fair it looks like you’ve done just fine on your own tonight.” She wiggles her eyebrows at me. “Maybe it’s you who knows what you’re doing, maybe I need to start coming to you for advice, hey?”

I force a smile onto my lips then start to move away. I’m too weary to stick around for any longer, the exhaustion that’s been messing me about all day long is back and in full force. If I don’t get into my bed soon I think I might just fall down and sleep on the streets. As some of the other girls call out goodbye to me as I leave, I give them a half wave back but I’m not really focused on what I’m doing. I just need my escape...

“Serena!” As soon as I hear his voice I spin around rapidly to find him. There’s a part of me that thinks it might be my tired mind hallucinating, but nope, there he is standing in the entrance of the club, seemingly waiting for me. “I hope you don’t mind me meeting you.”

“Ben?” Just like that, I feel more awake and alert than I have done in a very long time. The intense rush brings me right back up again. “No, of course not. But I am surprised.”

He pulls out a wad of notes from his wallet. “Well unfortunately due to my phone call, I didn’t get to tip you for your company tonight.” I shake my head, I don’t want to take it, it feels weird. “I insist you have it. I wanted to give it to you all night long but I didn’t get the chance.”

My trembling fingers reach forward to grab the money. I have to admit that a small part of me is crushed. I don’t know why but the idea that he just stayed here to give me cash sucks. I mean, I need the money, but I want him to like me as well... because maybe I like him.

He is handsome after all, and there seems to be some sort of unspoken connection between us. The short time I spent talking to Ben was the most I’ve felt like myself in ages. He brought out a sassiness to me which was pretty cool. I like that, I want to experience it again but I just want him to want to speak to me again.

“Actually, the reason I stayed is really because I wanted to see you again, I was enjoying our time together. The money is just an excuse. I do want to give it to you because I owe it you, but I also want a chat as well.”

That lifts up my heart, I can literally feel my chest swelling with happiness. Of course I don’t want to get carried away but I also can’t ignore the little voice in the back of my head that’s screaming at me maybe this is it, maybe this is the moment I’ve always been waiting for. Maybe this is the dramatic moment I’ve always wanted, the start of my real life...

“Well, I’m just walking home.” I still don’t really want to go to a bar, even if I am more alert. “But you can walk with me, if you like.”

I hope he knows I’m not inviting him in, I don’t want him to assume that I’m some sort of easy girl who will just have sex with him like that. He doesn’t look like he thinks that way, but I still need it to be clear... only I can’t find the right words for it.

“Sure, I can walk you home. I’m a gentleman.” He places his hand on his hip allowing me to link my arm through his. That’s a friendly enough gesture, right? He isn’t holding my hand. I would like him to hold my hand, but I’m glad that he’s not pushing me. “Where is it you live? How many more questions do I get to ask?”

“Not many,” I giggle. “Because it’s not too far from here. Maybe three or four more questions. Five at a push.”

“I’ll take that challenge. Let’s see what I can come up with.”

We walk through the streets under the street lights and moonlight which glows down on Ben’s face in a way that makes him look devastatingly handsome. As we go I try to work out his motivation for staying behind. I mean, I know that I like him, but he can’t honestly like me, can he? I imagine he has the most beautiful women in the world throwing themselves at him. There’s no way he can like me... is there?

The way he looks at me suggests that maybe he does. There’s certainly something floating between us, a chemistry maybe. Whatever it is it feels good.

“So, what animal do you identify most with?”

I burst into laughter at Ben’s unexpected question. I thought it would be something else entirely. I don’t know what though. “Really? That’s what you’re going with?”

“You have to answer quickly. I want to fill this time wisely, I need to get in as many questions as I can.”

“Alright, alright.” I pause for just a second as I plan my answer. “A seal.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know. They’re sweet.”

“Okay, so what country would you most like to visit in the world?”

“Easy, Japan.”

“Ooh, good one. I’ve been to Tokyo, it’s a fantastic country. How did you end up working as a shot girl?”

“I was temping, doing all kinds of different, equally horrible, jobs and my roommate, Jenny...”

“Wait.” He turns to face me to stop me in my tracks. “The blonde girl, that’s who you live with?”

“Yes... why?”

“I don’t know.” He purses his lips in confusion. “I just can’t imagine the two of you being friends that’s all. You’re really nice and she’s... I mean, I don’t mean this in a bad way, oh God, I’m digging myself into a hole here.”

I could let him stew but I don’t want to. He already looks upset that he’s spoken badly about Jenny, not that he’s really said anything. “I know what you mean, she’s very different to me. She’s much louder and more confident. I know I’m probably too quiet for that job really, but I’m giving it a go, trying something new.”

“Well that’s really brave of you.” Ben looks at me like he’s proud of me, which only makes me laugh again. I don’t even know why. I feel like I’m a bit of a mess around him now during this one on one time. I guess it’s because this isn’t work anymore and I don’t quite know what it is. I think he might like me and I don’t know where that’s going to lead. It scares me and excites me all at once. “You’re facing something you fear head on.”

“Yeah, I guess so.” I give a modest shrug as a reply. “Thank you.”

“So what movies do you like best of all? I know it’s too hard to pick just one, so what genre?”

I can’t admit rom coms because that comes too close to my dream of something magical happening in my life, so I say the first thing that comes into my head instead. “I like world cinema. Especially drama movies.” I don’t know why I say that, but it’s too late. It’s out there now. “Right, well this is me so I suppose you’re out of questions now.”

Ben’s hands move up to my shoulders and he spins me round to stare deeply into my eyes. My breath catches in my throat, all of a sudden everything intensifies, I don’t know what to think. My head spins with a heady lust, I feel like my knees are knocking together in shock. I don’t know what’s going on here, but I don’t want the moment to end.

Then his lips crash against mine and everything becomes all too clear. The world rushes around me, then stops dead leaving me and Ben alone in this utterly perfect moment that I never want to end.

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