Loves Deception (4 page)

With business done, Gianna went to get the Peach Cobbler and Sweet Potato Pie. She paired it with vanilla bean ice cream. They sat around the table and enjoyed dessert. Bryan and Miles filled the ladies in on their college mischievousness. Charlene joined in with a story of her own. Bryan and Gianna were telling the story of their skinny dipping episode at Lake Tigan.

“What? I wondered why you guys were wet. I mean everything was wet. Kevin and Tracy were pissed, but you two didn’t seem to notice. Laughing and carrying on I thought Kevin and Bryan were going to fight at one point,” Charlene said.

“Wait, why would you say that? Kevin was glued to me the whole time after that. I couldn’t seem to shake him to use the bathroom, “Gianna laughed. 

Bryan glared at Charlene hoping she wouldn’t continue the story. No such luck. Charlene didn’t seem to understand the warning stares.

“Oh girl I thought you knew. Yeah, Kevin came looking for Bryan. We were in the living room, Mike and I, Devon and Shelly, Sarah and Sean, and Bryan and Tracy. Tracy had gone to the bathroom but she came back and heard the tail end of it. I’m sure of it.”

Bryan stood up and started clearing the table. Almost everyone was focused on Charlene. Gianna noticed Bryan’s face as he cleared the table but she wanted to hear the rest of the story.  Bryan had left the room and headed toward the kitchen. “Hey I’m going to get the wine so we can the evening games started,” Bryan said as he left.

Charlene continued. “Kevin came barreling in. He was seething mad. He walked up to Bryan and laid into him. He accused Bryan of making up some game just to see his girl. Now it all makes since, of course, but at the time we were all clueless. Truthfully, we thought Kevin had finally lost it. It became a lot clearer though. Anyway, Bryan stood up and looked at Kevin. Kevin started in again.”

You think I don’t know what you’re doing. You think I don’t see it. Maybe you’re fooling yourself and Gianna is blind to it but I see. You should back off. I got this. Why don’t you at least pretend a little better? You are here with Tracy right.

“What are you talking about man? Making up games is kind of what I do, ask about me. Oh, and if anyone wanted to see anyone it was clear that you were breaking your neck to see Tracy.

“Don’t be ridiculous, I was only looking out for her because you were busy drooling after Gianna. Someone had to make sure your girl didn’t fall and break her neck.” Kevin fumed back at Bryan.

“Look man, for the record. I’m here with Tracy, I’ve been here and I’m not going nowhere. Bryan started to walk away but he stopped and turned and said, “If you got it, why you out here talking to me. We are all grown and we don’t have to do a damn thing we don’t want to. If you didn’t want to play you know what you had to do.

“You know what you’re doing. You’re trying to cause a problem for me with Gianna. I know you tell her she can do better than me. Who are you talk? Kevin was now in Bryan’s face. Devon stepped in to put some space between them to calm the situation down.

“Oh, I’m cool Devon”. Bryan assured Devon that he was in control seeing him back up Kevin. He looked back at Kevin, “I don’t have to do or say anything you will mess this up all on your own. And yeah I am here with Tracy why don’t you remember that. I see how you look at her. I see those wheels turning. Just waiting for your opening, huh? Just like with Keisha. Yeah she told me about it.” Bryan started moving toward Kevin. “Gianna is my best friend, man, and if you do anything to hurt her again, I will hurt you.”

Bryan stood staring at Kevin. Kevin looked like he was going to say more but he noticed Tracy in the doorway. Kevin turned around but said “just be happy in the friend zone she put you in and we won’t have no problems.” He left the room.

“It was Mike’s turn to be peace keeper stepping into Bryan’s path. Bryan looked like he was going to really hurt Kevin.” Done her story Charlene sipped her wine. She noticed that Bryan had left. Gianna seemed shocked “You really didn’t know that happened?” Charlene asked Gianna.

“NO. Kevin and I were supposed to leave that night so we did. Neither one ever led on. Anyway they seemed to have buried the hatchet since then because we spent so much time together, the four of us, since that happened.”  Gianna pasted a smile on her face. She excused herself and went into the kitchen to find Bryan.

Gianna knew she’d only partially told the truth. They did spend a lot of time together after that but it wasn’t the same. Kevin and Bryan’s relationship was strained and if she was honest Tracy grew distant. She noticed the glares the guys gave each other but assumed that there was some inside testosterone joke she didn’t understand. Gianna recalled a conversation between her and Tracy.

They were out shopping for a birthday present for Bryan. Tracy had decided to buy him a leather ledger for his new business he’d started. Gianna thought it was a cool gift but it wasn’t personal it was more of a friend gift. Tracy and Bryan had been dating for at least a year and a half, and it was definitely enough time to get personal. Gianna made a suggestion that Tracy should have a lingerie photo taken, personalize it and have it framed. She went on to tell her that she and Bryan had talked about things they wanted and how Bryan had mentioned that some years ago. She thought Bryan would have forgotten the conversation by now and it would truly be a good surprise for him that he’d like. Gianna thought Tracy would come out looking like the perfect girlfriend who knew just what Bryan would like. Tracy, didn’t seem to share in the sentiments. She bought the ledger anyway and made up an excuse cut short their shopping trip. Hell Gianna didn’t even get help with her gift for Bryan.

Later that day, all four of them were at Bryan’s house and they were just about to exchange gifts. Kevin offered up a lame key chain that came stock with his new car. Bryan was unbothered. Then Tracy excited she rushed to go next. Bryan was happy about his ledger and kissed her. Gianna pulled her present from behind her back. Bryan opened it and laughed then fell over laughing. Gianna had kept the idea she’d shared with Tracy. She replaced the lingerie photo with a picture of her and Bryan when they were in college.

It was the first time she got drunk and Bryan had been equally drunk. Charlene snuck up on them and took the picture just as Gianna was reaching behind Bryan for her red cup, and Bryan was leaning forward for something off camera. The angle in which Charlene took the picture made Bryan and Gianna look like they were kissing. It didn’t help that the moment the picture was taken both of their eyes were closed. It was a running joke between their college crew. Gianna thought it was funny so when he had the same reaction they both laughed for about 5 minutes with tears and everything.

Tracy finally having had enough jumped up and rushed to the closet for her coat. She said her goodbyes and left with an excuse of an early day the next day. Kevin was right on her heels only he didn’t bother to say a word, He just left.  After reading the situation, really looking at the picture and the caption she understood better. It only took her years to see it. Bryan and Tracy split up shortly after that and Kevin and Gianna’s problems began around that time. They broke up and made up too many times to count before ending things. Bryan only said of his break up that Tracy was too needy and was always nagging him. Gianna now wonders if Tracy was nagging him about her. In Gianna’s mind she and Kevin’s break up had nothing to do with Bryan or that night but everything to do with Keisha and Tiffany, and oh who can name them all.  But now looking back she knew it had a lot to do with that night for Kevin.

Gianna hurried to the kitchen to find Bryan. Bryan was hot. He couldn’t believe Charlene was rehashing this argument between him and Kevin. He thought he swore everyone to secrecy. Suddenly he remembered Charlene and Mike left a little after Gianna and that punk ass Kevin did, so he missed talking to them. Bryan wanted to hurt Kevin that day, but he knew he would have to explain it to Gianna. He worked too hard to suppress his feelings in order to be 100 % her best friend and nothing more. He couldn’t risk her knowing that he has loved her since the day she gave him his first kiss.

Bryan moved to the bucket of ice housing the wine. He removed it and began to open it. The Pop of the cork startled him out of his daze, causing him to realize he wasn’t alone. He put a smile on his face and sat the wine bottle down. Turning to face the visitor he wasn’t surprised to see Gianna standing in the doorway.

Charlene took another sip of her wine and looked to the bottle for a refill. As if reading her mind, Miles was on top of it moving to pour her another glass.

“So, how long have you known Bryan,” Charlene asked. She wanted to know if Miles knew how Bryan felt about Gianna. Charlene was thinking of bringing Miles up to speed on her developing plan to get Bryan and Gianna to finally give each other the time of day. She was hoping Bryan’s idea for a drinking game would help them loosen up.

Once she got them to see things her way she would worry about her own fun. Charlene wanted to find out if Miles could mix business with a little pleasure and not get attached. Already deciding that if this night turned cozy Miles would definitely get lucky. She was single enough, for now, and as far as she knew so was Miles.

              Formulating a plan in her mind to have a little fun while playing love connection. She drank her wine and listened to Miles recount a story about a time when they played a Bryan Stillwater drinking game. Miles’ story was animated and he was funny and charming. As Miles continued the story Charlene had her answer. Miles would be perfect to cross that line with and not have the need for a restraining order afterwards. 

Miles looked at Charlene as he told her about Bryan’s drinking game. He wasn’t sure if he should tell her the details but he was all in and the details were the best parts. Bryan’s drinking games were the best and always ended in everyone sleeping over. This night Bryan was in rare form. By the end of the night everyone had paired off and cozied up for the night. Bryan woke up with Big Booty Belinda Strong. “This was a big deal” he explained to Charlene, “because Bryan is a relationship guy.”

Miles told Charlene that he woke up the next morning with sexy ass Vanessa Starks. Charlene laughed and seemed to enjoy the story. Miles was glad for that because he was hoping this drinking game would end with him and Charlene finding their own cozy location in the house. “Damn she if fine,” Miles told himself.

Miles continued to look across the table at Charlene noting how extremely attractive she was. “Man a brother really had to play this one cool to have a chance in hell with a girl like Charlene,” Miles thought to himself. “Yeah “a” brother, but Charlene wouldn’t be able to resist this brother.” Charlene was definitely a good catch. She handled her business, and held her own in a conversation. Miles was looking forward to getting to know her a lot better.

“Do you think they are ok in there,” Miles asked trying not to completely wake up the dragon. Mike adjusted himself in his seat. Charlene was thankful for the Segway to her plan.

“Yeah, they have a good handle on each other. If anyone can calm Bryan down it would be Gianna. They just need a few minutes, that’s all. Hopefully they are confessing their true feelings so we can finally get rid of Kevin and Tracy.” Charlene made the mistake of looking Miles right in the eyes. “I do hope we don’t have to start our own drinking game without them.”

Miles smiled slyly. “Sounds like you are ready to advance this night, huh? Why don’t we move this party to the family room? They will find us when they are through.” Miles was beginning to think that undoing the two buttons was a brilliant idea. He noticed Charlene’s bedroom eyes but thought it was just him. Now she wants to start the party without all the guests, which could only be good news for him.

“Smart and handsome, hmm. Don’t forget the wine.” Charlene followed Miles into the Livingroom.

Charlene and Miles moved the party to the family room. They sat down on the couch and began talking. Charlene found herself excited for this evening’s games. She always loved Bryan’s made up games. She started telling Miles about when Bryan found Tracy’s “SEX Escapades, The Game” and decided to make it a drinking game. The rules were if you didn’t do what the card said you had to take a shot. “Well we played the game, and let’s just say we learned a lot about each other that night. I am hoping this night will be just as interesting.” They both locked eyes and smiled.

Charlene reached for her glass and once again on cue Miles was there to refill it. They’d had a few glasses already so Charlene didn’t have the steadiest of hands. Miles held her hand steadying the glass and poured the wine. After pouring it he took it and sat it on the table while moving in closer. He leaned in and Charlene moved forward. His lips meeting hers she moaned shocking herself. His hand made its way to the small of her back as he deepened the kiss. They finally came up for air and laughed nervously. They started up a conversation about the evenings drinking games to cool down the heat.

Bryan and Gianna returned from the kitchen laughing. They found Miles and Charlene in the family room engrossed in conversation. Gianna was worried that leaving them for so long would cause them to get bored and end the evening early. She should have known that Charlene would keep the party going.

Bryan was holding the bottles of Paul Masson Peach and Amsterdam Pineapple, ready to move the evening along. Gianna had snacks and shot glasses. She brought Chips and dip out for the light weights. Miles stood to help Gianna carry the shot glasses and Charlene helped arrange the snacks. Bryan sat down and opened the Paul Masson Peach first. Gianna sat down and started to apologize for leaving Miles and Charlene to entertain themselves for so long.

Bryan filled the shot glasses and asked everyone how they were feeling. “Are you ready to spend the night, or do any of you have to wake up early tomorrow?”

“Man, I know you so I came prepared,” Miles said. Miles was forewarned about how this evening may end. He also knew that if Bryan was in charge of the entertainment he would need an overnight bag and his own special brew in the morning. He looked at Charlene, “I am ready to get this evening started.

“Just so you know I have plenty of room and you’re all more than welcome to stay,” Gianna added. “Miles I didn’t know how far back you and Bryan went, but now I’m sure you know there is no use trying to leave tonight. Miles smiled, “Thanks Gianna Bryan was right about you.”  “Well he just tells all my business, huh.” Everyone laughed.

It was Charlene’s turn to decide. She was busy setting up the table. She had a thing for everything having a place. Feeling like all eyes was on her she looked up and found all eyes were on her. “Oh, you don’t even have to ask, I’m down for whatever. My overnight bag is in the car.” Everyone laughed.

“I guess my reputation precedes itself,” Bryan said laughing. Bryan started the night off with a mild game. He wanted to test the waters and keep everyone comfortable. He hoped that Charlene didn’t ruin the evening by mentioning punk ass Kevin. Bryan knew she was cool so he wasn’t going to let that ruin the rest of the evening. Gianna missed that whole encounter, mainly because he protected her from it. Bryan shook it off and was determined to enjoy the evening. “Well I think we can begin harmless enough with a little Truth or Dare shots.

To show good faith Bryan went first and he chose dare. He had to take a shot before doing whatever the group came up with. He was dared to finish the next three rounds in only his boxers and socks. The kicker was that he had to give them a strip tease while taking off the clothes. This was Charlene’s big bright idea of course Bryan thought. He stood up and after taking another shot he started his strip tease.

Charlene and Gianna fanned themselves as Bryan began taking off his pants. By the time he revealed his wash board abs both ladies reached for a shot.  “Charlene remember, you are next. Bryan threw his shirt at her. Charlene stood up and motioned for him to bring it on. “I can handle anything you throw at me Bryan. I am not scared.” Everyone laughed.

Gianna was unbelievably hot and she couldn’t seem to cool off. At one point she had to excuse herself from the room to bring out some ice. Of course Miles called foul. He felt that ice would water down the shots. Eventually the ladies convinced the fellas to allow it. Gianna had no intentions of using the ice but needed a few minutes to collect herself. 

Gianna returned to the room but her seat was directly across from Bryan. She found her eyes drawn to him and his muscular frame. She couldn’t even think straight. She used the chips and dip to distract herself from openly ogling his sensual frame. “Really Gianna get it together. It’s Bryan,” Gianna admonished herself. You have played this game a million times what is wrong with you?”

Charlene nudged Gianna as if she read her mind and knew she needed to be saved. It was Charlene’s turn and Miles wanted to do the honors. He asked “truth, dare or consequences.”

“Hmm, I’m feeling very daring tonight. I choose dare. Charlene took her shot and waited for her challenge.

Miles smiled a devilish smile. “Charlene I dare you to make out with Gianna right here right now.

Gianna wasn’t shocked. Bryan’s games can get very personal. She looked at Charlene and waited for her to make her move. Charlene turned around to face Gianna. Gianna sat back against the back of the couch. Charlene leaned in close and kissed Gianna’s lips softly.

Gianna thought it would blow the boys minds if they took the kiss to another level. She reached up and grabbed Charlene’s breasts and deepened the kiss. Charlene followed her lead and began to caress Gianna’s breasts and allowed her tongue to dance with Gianna’s. They moaned and felt each other up. Charlene leaned over Gianna and was nearly on top of her, when they heard someone clear their throat.

Miles was in heaven. He never thought that Charlene would accept the dare. He was prepared for her to drink hot sauce as her consequence. His mind was blown. Bryan the one who cleared his throat wasn’t shocked. These two have done this before. They are quite the professionals at it because of Bryan’s famous drinking games. It never gets old though. Bryan had to adjust himself so he wouldn’t reveal just how much he enjoyed it.

Miles was the first to speak. “Man why did you break that up. It was just getting good.

“Yeah but you’re not the one in your boxers,” Bryan laughed.

“Well boys put your tongues back in your mouths,” Gianna and Charlene said in unison.

Everyone laughed. The evening progressed. Bryan earned his clothes back. There were no more make out sessions. Bryan decided that this was the last round. He had another game idea. By this time with one bottle of Paul Masson gone everyone was feeling loose and very comfortable with each other.

It was Gianna’s turn, she took her shot and waited. “Truth, dare or consequences,” ‘Bryan asked her. Gianna chose dare. I dare you to pick one of us and simulate your favorite position during sex.”