The day has been crazy, pulled in so many directions. Between making calls, managing the event, helping at the bar, and checking on Ria, I barely had time to grab something to eat or get ready. Still, I couldn't help but steal glances at her as she set up on stage. She looks amazing, as usual. It still feels surreal to see her, like an out of body experience after all this time.
When she first arrived, I couldn't believe my eyes and when we hugged, I couldn't stop myself from bursting into tears. But we haven’t had time to talk, so I told her to meet me in Ren's office when she's finished for some food, drinks and to doll ourselves up.
Ren’s office has the same feel as the club, with everything from a bar, to a lounge area, to his own desk and bathroom. The windows are tinted black so no one can see inside, but offers a birds-eye view of the entire club.
I've set up our late-lunch early dinner on the table by the lounges comprising of sushi and alcohol, all the major food groups, and my tummy is in knots waiting for Ria to arrive.
The door opens and in walks my best friend. In an instant, I am filled with excitement, joy, and a little bit of sadness. I just want to laugh and cry and yell and squeeze her all at the same time.
Her hair is longer. It's funny the things girls notice first. But it's longer, blonder and even shinier, if that's even possible. And she has new ink on her ribs I can see from the crop top she's wearing.
“It’s crazy down there.” She closes the door behind her and for the first time in almost two years we are alone together.
“Sure is.” I watch as she walks over to the table where all the food is spread out. “Thanks again for the dress. I wasn’t expecting to be here all day.”
“Of course. So, you never mentioned how you landed this gig in the first place.”
It’s definitely time for some drinks, so I make my way over to the bar as I answer.
“Ren brought me to work with him today. But then his other work called, and he had to go, leaving me to look after the club.” I turn to her, holding up two bottles: one of champagne and the other of vodka.
“Vodka obvs.” She rolls her eyes, like I should know better.
I do, and the fact that she hasn’t changed makes me smile. After mixing her usual drink and pouring myself a champagne, I walk over.
“It’s been way too long, I’ve missed you.” I hand her the drink, she takes it and throws back a big gulp.
“Well, whose fault is that?” she says teasingly, but with an edge to her voice.
That knocks the smile from my face and fortifies the nerves inside my stomach. “It’s mine. I am so, so sorry.”
“You’ve known me how long now? I’m no stranger to people cutting out on me. Just never thought you would be one of those people, that’s all. But you’re back now so…” She shrugs as if it’s just another day and I’m just another disappointment.
It guts me.
“Ria, leaving you was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I’m sorry for everything. How I treated you before I left. For leaving without saying goodbye…” I swallow and muster up the courage to utter the next few words. “For not being there when your mum passed. I’m so sorry, Ria.”
Her body goes stock still and her eyes are like two shining wet marbles staring back at me. “Who told you about that?”
“I’ve been stalking you online. I created a few fake profiles. I wanted to reach out, but I couldn’t risk it. It killed me not to be there.”
“Hmph.” She sucks in a deep breath, her eyes rimmed red, but Ria the hard ass would never let them fall. “I’m going to pretend that’s not so much worse you actually saying that to me because I’m glad that you are back, whatever the reason.” She downs the rest of her vodka in one go.
I can tell she’s still pissed, hurt and justifiably so, and I don’t want to make this any worse, but I can’t let her get the wrong idea.
“I’m not back for long.” My voice is soft, unable to hide the sadness behind it.
“Come again?”
“I can’t stay here. I’m not safe.”
“What are you talking about?” Even though she still sounds annoyed, I can hear the concern in her voice.
“I fucked up, really bad. Sergei was the worst mistake of my life.”
“Sergei? I thought you were marrying Vitali?”
“Yes, I mean, now I’m marrying Ren.” I shake my head, muddling my words. “No. I am not actually going to marry him. I’m going to run before that. I’m not safe because of Sergei, he won’t let this go. He is crazy. Didn’t he come see you?”