Page 43 of Romance with Mr. Bossy Pants

Soon, we’re nestled away in a booth on the corner of the bar, simply…hanging out. The dimly lit bar is pulsating with energy. We’re far from the fun yet close enough to soak in the atmosphere. Since it’s their first meet-up, Amber and Alex seem to have a lot to talk about, and in no time, I become a spectator between them as they laugh at weird facts about themselves.

Their chemistry flows so well, and for a moment, the thought of playing matchmaker dances through my mind. I quickly dismiss it, though. Amber’s love life is as fleeting as a shooting star, bright and intense but gone before you know it. She hops like a bee from flower to flower, never lingering to taste if the nectar's truly sweet. Instead, she offers baseless excuses: "he chews too loudly," "he still plays video games," "he leaves the toilet seat up," "bad hairline," and the list goes on. She’s convinced she’s just protecting her future kids.

My thoughts snap back to the present when Amber leans in and whispers, “What a perfect, hot, tall, gorgeous way to forget your week’s troubles.”

“What?”

“That guy over there has been stealing glances at you all night. He’s cute, and he looks like a good one-night-stand material. You should totally give him a chance.”

I can’t help but be excited and apprehensive. The idea of meeting someone new is both thrilling and nerve-wracking. So, trusting Amber’s open-mindedness, I agree to take the plunge. Just in time, too, because the handsome stranger saunters over when he notices me looking at him.

“Hey there,” he says smoothly, his voice cutting through the loud music. “I’m Antonio.”

I manage a polite smile, trying to keep my unease hidden. “Oh, hi,” I reply, my voice barely audible over the music.

Antonio leans in closer, his breath warm against my ear. “You look even more stunning up close,” he compliments, his tone dripping with charm.

"Thank you," I respond, unsure how to navigate the situation.

Undeterred, Antonio takes a step closer, his hand lightly brushing my arm. "Care to dance?" he asks, his voice low and persuasive.

Against my better judgment, I nod hesitantly. "Sure, why not," I agree, allowing Antonio to lead me onto the dance floor.

As we move together in rhythm with the music, Antonio keeps the conversation light and engaging. I try to relax, enjoying the upbeat tempo and the distraction from my earlier nerves.

Antonio quickly reminds me of Daniel. They’re both arrogant representations of why looks aren’t everything, although Daniel is hotter. I keep looking back at our table anxiously, but Amber is deep in conversation with Alex, and they’d only send a thumbs-up my way occasionally. I can’t help but feel guilty that they’d be disappointed when they realize there won’t be any casual hookups.

But as the dance progresses, I notice a shift in Antonio's demeanor. His touches linger too long, his compliments become more possessive, and his gaze grows increasingly intense.

He pulls me in closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "You know, we could have a lot of fun together," he suggests, his hand sliding down my back.

Alarm bells ring in my head. This isn't what I signed up for. I take a step back, creating space between us. "I think I'm gonna grab a drink," I say, attempting to diffuse the situation.

Antonio's expression darkens for a moment before he masks it with a smile. "Come on, don't be like that," he urges, trying to bring me closer.

I shake my head slightly, my discomfort growing. "I think I've had enough dancing for now," I say firmly, my voice tinged with resolve.

Antonio's frustration is palpable, and he releases me abruptly. "Fine," he snaps, his charm slipping for a moment. "Do what you want,” Antonio hisses and walks away.

Relieved to be free of his grasp, I quickly retreat from the dance floor, making a beeline back to Amber and Alex. They both look up with concern as I approach.

“That’s it! I’ve had it up to here with men treating me like crap!” I throw my hands up in the air. “I’ll quit my job. Daniel can shove his attitude where the sun doesn’t shine! I don’t care how hot he looks!”

“Hold on, what happened?” Amber asks.

“I assume the dude was a jerk, but…what does Daniel have to do with this?”

I open my mouth to answer, but my mouth just hangs open. Antonio should be the one to blame, but I’m directing it to Daniel, who’s probably reading his daughter a bedtime story. Amber and Alex exchange a strange look before Amber leans forward and clears her throat. “Um, Chloe? It sounds like Daniel has done a little more than getting under your skin.”

“Whatever it is you’re insinuating, it’s wrong! I don’t like Daniel. He’s a horrible man.”

“Darling, nobody said you did,” Alex points out, and I immediately feel stupid.

“Chloe, we’re just worried about you–”

I cut in. “I’m fine. It’s just…it’s just been a rough couple of months. Let’s get outta here.”

We grab our things, but Amber hesitates at the back door. I realize by how her eyes dart between me and Alex that she’s about to shock me.

---