Page 23 of Mayhem

“Give Bobby my congratulations.” That’s who she cheated on me with, and who, I assume, is the father.

“Funny,” she chuckles. “He said the same about you when he dropped me off here.”

“Well, we both know it’s not mine. So, go back to Bobby, and have a nice life with your family. Leave me and mine alone.”

“You’re being so mean. When did you get so mean?” She reaches out for me, but I step backward, careful to move Tess with me, keeping my spot between them.

I don’t like the crazy vibe emanating from Gina right now, and I need to diffuse the situation quicker than I am doing.

“Seriously. Congratulations to you both. I hope you’re happy,” I say, trying to be sincere, even though I feel like I’m spitting out venom. I was so stupid to ever think I wanted this woman. She got clean when she was with me. It’s sad to see what she’s become since. “Now, please, just leave me alone.”

Before she can respond or reach out again, a car peels into the parking lot, radio blasting. They screech to a stop behind my car.

Bobby.

The window rolls down and smoke pours out, revealing my supposed former nemesis. One I couldn’t give two shits about now.

“Get in the fucking car, Gina,” he orders sharply.

I step back again, pulling Tess tight next to me, signaling to Gina that I am not an option for her, and she needs to deal with her own shit.

“But you’re being an asshole,” she whines, stomping her foot like a child.

“Just get in the fucking car,” he replies, rolling his eyes at her.

She glances back at Tess and I and must see that she doesn’t have a lot of choice in the matter. I get the feeling her being here was part of a bigger game they’re both playing with each other. One I definitely want no part of.

“Fine,” she pouts, and rounds the car to get in.

As they pull out of the parking lot, I don’t release the breath I’ve been holding until the car is out of sight, and I think Tess does the same.

“Well, that’s one way to make a first date memorable, huh?” I say, deflated now that the night’s been ruined by my ex.

“Um…yeah. That’s pretty unforgettable.” Her tone is surprisingly light. Maybe things aren’t ruined after all.

“I’m sorry about that.” I really am at a loss for what to say after a display like that. I’m still reeling a bit.

“Don’t apologize. That was obviously not your fault.”

I can feel the relief wash over me in a wave. “You’re amazing,” I say, kissing her forehead. “I hate to end our date on that sour note, though.”

She turns her head toward the studio suggestively. “It doesn’t have to end yet.”

I’m digging the studio keys out of my pocket before I take another breath, pulling her along with me toward the building.

“Then it won’t.”

14

ONLY LOVE

TESS

I’m not sure what I was thinking when I suggested the date didn’t have to end. The last few minutes have left me dizzy, and I don’t think it’s all made sense yet.

Brad shuts the door behind me, then pins me with his hands flat against it above my shoulders. I’m caged, and he’s so close. His spicy cologne is intoxicating. He leans in for a kiss and I respond automatically, drowning in the sensations as his mouth hungrily takes mine.

As the kiss breaks, and his lips start to travel down my neck with delicious precision, my body wants to give in to him. Throw myself into this passionate moment.

---