Why hadn’t I agreed to work at the club tonight? They were short-staffed with the flu bug making its way through the servers and performers.
I could drop in. They’d appreciate the help, and I’d get some much-needed attention…
And just like that, a thick, penetrating cloud of awkwardness surrounded us.
“You’re angry,” he said with a touch of amusement in his voice.Bastard.
“Disappointed. Not angry.”
“I’m sure you’ll have fun with your friends, Bonita.”
I was beginning to hate it when he called me that. “You’re right. I will.” I exhaled a heavy breath, stretched my arms above my head, and let them fall to my sides. “I guess I’ll work on my tan.”
Something flashed in his eyes. It gave me an idea.
“Maybe join one of the strip poker games. I don’t usually like to play with those horny, crude guys. I’m just feeling restless. I need a stress reliever before graduation.” I sipped my drink, noticing how the air crackled with… jealousy?
Possessiveness?
Primal lust?
“You deserve better than those dickheads.” His jaw tensed and his eyes turned black.
“Probably. But I’m just looking for a good time, not a husband.”
“A good time?”
I laughed, suddenly feeling more confident and desired. It was a good feeling. “Yes, silly. You know, drinks and whatever else that follows.”
He rolled his hand into a fist. “Whatever else that follows?”
“Sex,” I whispered. “What’s the Spanish word for that?”
“Take fucking Spanish if you want to know.” He stood from the chair, both hands fisted.
People looked our way, but Joseph didn’t seem to care.
“Was it something I said?” As if I didn’t know the answer. I had to say, I liked this side of him. I liked it a lot.
“Why do you have to pull this shit with me? Don’t you know what you’re doing—” He stopped and growled. “Fuck.”
“Look. I’m tired of dancing around us.”
“There is no us.” His words cut me deep, but I wouldn’t let him see how he wounded me.
“Thanks for the clarification. Have a good evening.” I grabbed my bag and bolted.
And he followed, calling my name.
“Leave me alone, Joseph.”
“Stop.”
“No.”
“I said, stop.” He grabbed me by the wrist and spun me around. “I still want to be your friend.”
“I have enough friends.” I jerked my hand away.