Page 75 of What Happens in Dubai

‘Is everything OK, troops?’ Andy walked up to the bar and waited for a response.

I felt my Prosecco confidence backing me up once more and opted to ignore Andy altogether. ‘No, you’re going to be working forme, Tom. I’ll stay civil during work hours, but I don’t need you to buy my drinksandsocialise with me as if we’re pals. Comprendo? Yes, everything is fine now, Andy, thanks.’ I lifted my hands in the air and turned to Ashley for some reassurance. She was facing the other way, smiling at clients who were watching the commotion.

‘Well,’ Tom cleared his throat and adjusted his jacket smoothly, ‘you clearly do need me to buy them because you haven’t brought your purse, have you?’ he sniggered.

‘Aw, fuck off! Ashley, Andy, I’m away. I’ve had a shit week and don’t need this poor patter. See you at work, Thomas.’

‘Can’t wait!’ he sneered sarcastically.

I gave him one last withering look and marched out of the room. My knees felt shaky as I continued back down the marble stairs, out into the cool night, feeling suddenly overcome with emotion. I hadn’t even said goodbye to Raj. I paused briefly but knew I couldn’t go back now. So, I stood until the traffic cleared and ran across the pitch-black road. The wind was strong and bitter; I could feel my body quiver with coldness.

‘Haw, Zara! Is that you?’ a voice called out.

I looked up to see Luke, my recent toy boy, swaying on the pavement. My face fell. I hadn’t seen him since I legged it for Dubai.Shit.

‘Hi Luke.’ I attempted a polite acknowledgement and marched past him.

I felt a solid grasp on my arm. ‘Hi Luke? Don’t walk away. You never called me back! What was that all about? Eh?’ He came closer, and I could smell lager and weed on his breath. The pavement was empty, and I started to feel nervous.

‘I know, I’m sorry. But listen, I’ve had a bad week. I need to go. See you later.’ I pulled my arm to head off, but Luke followed behind me.

‘You can’t be heading home alone dressed like that, Zara. You’re forgetting I know you; I know what you like, darlin’. Mon, I’ll come up to yours and make your week a bit better. What do you say?’

I continued to walk quicker, ignoring him, but my heart raced as I heard his swift behind me.

‘What’s the matter? Did you prefer shagging my da? Is that it?’ He sounded irate, and I suddenly recalled all of his red flags – pub-watched, short-tempered, punching walls.

‘Luke, please stop. I honestly just want to go home. Leave me alone!’ I turned around and started power-walking.

My heart was hammering in my ears, my breath felt light, and I didn’t know what was going to happen. My hand was diving into my bag, hoping to find my phone or my keys but the bag was full and I couldn’t find either of them.

Suddenly, Luke grabbed me by the shoulders and pushed me against the shutters of a shop. The loud slam of my body hitting the metal echoed in the street. Luke pushed his face close to mine.

‘Listen to me when I’m fucking talking, Zara!’ He was speaking behind gritted teeth, and I closed my eyes tightly.

Please help me. Please help me. Please, God, someone help me.

‘Why would you wear that dress and expect to go home alone, eh? I think we both know you’re a wee slag, eh,’ he smirked.

I shrugged my shoulders, pulling my face as far away from him as I could.

‘Can you mind how much I made you cum? Eh, remember?’

I nodded, hoping if I played along, he’d maybe leave me be.

‘Will I show you again? I know you were gaggin’ for it the last time, weren’t yeh?’ Luke’s eyes opened wide, almost manic.

I could feel my own eyes stream with terror. ‘Please don’t do this, Luke. Please! Please!’ I cried.

I felt his hand move down roughly, grabbing hold of my thigh. My body squirmed as I anticipated the worst. I feared for my dignity, for my body and for my life. His weight was against me. I couldn’t move. I closed my eyes, powerless to fight back.

‘What the fuck are you doing?’

A voice from behind disturbed Luke, and I saw a shadow come closer.

‘Mind your own business, pal!’ Luke called back angrily.

Crack.

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