One and Done (Two Outta Three #2) (13 page)

Chapter 18

Sometimes it just takes one pick to completely crack a block of ice. For Rocky and I, that pick was our night out. Sure, it didn’t go completely as planned, but at least it turned out for the better. In fact, it put me in a really great mood.

The next morning, I entered the kitchen humming an oddly familiar tune. It wasn’t until I began murmuring the words, “Kiss, kiss so we’ll never be apart,” that I recalled that it was the dumb song from homecoming night. I was about to laugh out loud when my mother rudely interrupted me.

“Jesse.” Her raspy voice was hard on the ears, and I couldn’t even begin to imagine if it was equally as hard on her throat to speak.

“Yeah?” I asked, guarded.

“Why are you so happy?” she asked suspiciously. She dragged herself into the kitchen, the oxygen tank’s wheels squeaking noisily behind her. “Finally get that Rocky girl in bed?”

For as crude as my mother could be, I had no idea she could be so uncomfortably blunt. I scowled. “Well, that’s an inappropriate thing to say to your son.”

Her oxygen tank ticked away, her breaths growing louder. “Why? Last time I checked you’re an adult, right? Pretty sure you know the difference between a penis and a vagina. Or rather, the fittings of a—”

“Mom, stop it!” I growled. “Why can’t you just act like a normal mother for once? I’m not looking to build a relationship but…” I couldn’t even bring myself to finish my sentence. Shaking my head, I yanked up my baggy sweats in exasperation and walked toward the fridge. Yanking the door open, I peered inside a lot longer than was warranted, hoping that by the time I was through she’d be gone.

I wasn’t that lucky.

“I was going through that list of nurses you left on the table. I don’t think you meant for me to find it, but I did.”

Crap. I really didn’t want her to butt into my process. She’d end up choosing the most expensive agency just to get a rise out of me.

I lifted my head and frowned. “Okay and your point is?”

She took a few more painful breaths before that eerie voice piped up once again. “I was thinking…”

What many people don’t understand is that favors can be a form of manipulation. Think about it; you’re asking somebody to do something for you. Usually these favors go unpaid, further adding to their appeal. As I watched the way my mother’s eyes darted from one side to the other, a strange déjà vu hit me. She wanted something. It was that easy to tell.

Coughing a bit, she continued in a hesitant tone. “Maybe we can pick one together.”

I nearly dropped my jaw. “Wait, what?”

Her slim shoulders shrugged, causing her plastic tubing to tap against the gigantic tank. It was a painful reminder that maybe she had changed. “Well, I figured that I’d be more inclined to know what I want in a nurse, but you’d know your budget parameters better. Seeing as that I’m the one staying here and you’ll be off back to Charleston, it’s quite fitting that we both have a say in this, right?”

Okay, who is this pod person and what did she do to my mother?

I took a few moments to respond, clearly in shock at the turn of events. After many years of wishing we had some team dynamic, finally being given the gift was a bit too much for me to comprehend.

“Um, yeah I guess that works,” I replied, albeit reluctantly.

Fine. I was still suspicious. Sue me.

She nodded in contentment, wheezing all the while. “Perfect.”

***

I got ready for work with my mom’s request still weighing heavily on my mind. Was she finally becoming the mom I always wanted her to be? Or was this just another one of her stupid mind games?

Why do you always think so badly about people? I pulled a shirt over my head and scowled. Maybe that’s why your life became so fucked up—you didn’t allow anyone in!

The realization caused my spirits to deflate, and by the time I reached Rossi’s Novelties, I was worried my mood would jeopardize whatever progress I’d made with Rocky. Luckily, my bad mood was only temporary. Not only did Rocky seem in high spirits that day, but Stephanie came to visit once again. It wasn’t long until we fell back into our old routine with some very interesting things coming to light…

“Are you a virgin?” I blurted out incredulously. I tried to hide the look of relief on my face. Though it was unjustified, imagining her with another guy brought me to an embarrassing level of jealousy.

Rocky cowered, doing her best to hide the pink tint of her cheeks. “Really, guys? We’re going to talk about this here?”

“Technically a virgin.” Stephanie clarified, looking as if she would keel over with delight. She always loved teasing Rocky and heck, I couldn’t really blame her. If we could guarantee one thing in this life, it would be how easy it was to get under our best friend’s skin.

“How can someone technically be a virgin unless…” I eyed her apple shaped ass, cringing at the thought that somebody could have done some unspeakable things to it.

“Ew! No, you disgusting pervert,” Rocky growled, hitting me hard.

Oh, thank God!

Now that that was out of the question, I found it ample opportunity to throw my own jabs at her. “Okay, so tell me how one can technically be a virgin. I am really dying to know.”

“It was just the tip.” Her voice was barely a whisper.

Okay, maybe I didn’t want to know that.

“What was that?” I asked, pretending to cup my ear.

“It was just the tip!” she snapped in annoyance.

Before I could reply, Mrs. Rossi made a surprise appearance, further adding to our group discomfort. To my relief Stephanie saved the day by changing the subject and just in the nick of time too! As the girls went on to discuss their New Year’s Eve plans, I couldn’t help but feel a bit hurt that neither of them had thought to ask me to join in, let alone ask me what I was doing.

It’s not like you’re a part of their lives anymore. Get used to it.

I kept my mouth shut for the most part, listening closely as they plotted the details of their Girl’s Only Night Out. Once again pictures of strange men grasping Rocky’s arms…grazing her stomach…touching her lips…

No!

I was not going to let that happen. Stewing quietly, I made a decision I never thought I would.

I was going dancing at a night club.

Chapter 19

I’ve always thought montage scenes in movies were extremely stupid. You know the kind—the ones where the main character stands in front of the mirror showcasing different outfits while a weird pop song plays in the background. I would never have imagined myself partaking in such stupidity. Yet, there I was, glaring at my reflection. Granted it was minus the pop song, but still.

After changing about eight hundred times, I finally decided on a black long sleeved tee, black jeans, and black biker boots. What can I say? I liked black. Feeling content, I quickly headed toward the south end of town where Bethel Falls’ only collection of bars and nightclubs were located. It was bound to be crowded on any regular night, and I couldn’t bear to imagine what I’d be facing on the number one holiday for debauchery.

As expected, it took about twenty extra minutes for me to find parking, and that was after I opted to park about half a mile away. By the time I finally made it inside the club, the floor was already packed full of tipsy and well-dressed individuals. For a moment I began to regret my choice in attire, but based on the approving looks from a few scantily clad ladies, I quickly changed my mind.

I squeezed through the sweaty bodies, ignoring the scent of body odor mixed with liquor.

What am I doing here? This is so not my scene.

I was just about ready to turn around and walk out the door when I saw her. Curly hair, rosy cheeks, and legs that went on for miles. Rocky stood in the middle of the dance floor looking like a goddess. Though her outfit wasn’t as flashy or revealing as the women around her, she blew everyone else out of the water.

She was perfect.

I took a step forward only to freeze mid-way. What would I say to her?

Yes, I eavesdropped and decided to follow you here.

No, I’m not a stalker.

Really, I’m not!

Realizing that I needed to plan my move before I pounced, I diverted my course and headed toward the bar, taking a seat at the edge to give me a clear view of her. I was far enough away so the girls wouldn’t notice me, but close enough to jump in if they needed me.

You’re not stalking? You sure about that?

“She doesn’t need protection anymore. You’ve been gone for so long, I think she can handle herself,” I murmured to myself.

About an hour passed with me perched on the bar, and I was feeling more and more like a creeper. To make matters worse I wasn’t drinking anything, further adding to my Peeping Tom appeal.

You really like being the weird one, don’t you, Jesse? I shook my head and sighed. Maybe you haven’t grown up as much as you’d like to think.

“Hey, wanna dance?” a voice slurred, interrupting my thoughts.

I turned to find a flushed-faced woman with a sprinkling of freckles on her nose. She wore a bright fuchsia number with a neckline that plunged all the way to her belly button. I was surprised she could even walk around without flashing the whole club her areolas; then again she probably used that magic fashion know-how that women seemed to be born with. This stranger was beautiful, no doubt about that, but I was at that club for one specific person and unfortunately it wasn’t her.

My lips curled into a forced smile. “Ah, no. It’s okay.”

The brightness of her eyes darkened as her lips jutted forward into an angry pout. “Why not?”

I shrugged, shifting away from her touch. “I just don’t feel like it.”

“You don’t feel like dancing with a hot woman?” She wagged her eyebrows up and down, exhaling slightly. Her breath was tinged in alcohol, which only turned me off a bit more.

“Um, I’m actually here with a friend,” I shot back, my voice losing its initial kindness.

“A friend?” she repeated, sounding unconvinced. “I’ve seen you sitting here for a bit. You look pretty alone to me.”

“I…uh…” I glanced toward the floor and noticed that Stephanie was now air humping Enrique Iglesias. Where the heck was Rocky?

Just as quickly as the question flew through my mind, I felt her warmth nearing me. It was as if my body could detect her before my eyes even tracked her. I glanced up and spotted her petite figure pushing its way toward the bar. Grinning smugly, I looked back at Miss Hot Woman and said, “There she is right now.”

With a humph, Mistress in Fuchsia whipped around and approached another poor chap at the opposite end of the bar. She must have been really “thirsty,” if you know what I mean.

“Good luck to you, sir,” I mumbled, never taking my eyes off Rocky.

Here goes nothing.

Taking a deep breath, I silently pushed my way toward her like a puma stalking its prey. My eyes blazed as I took in the way the lights reflected off her slick body, an iridescent glow extending between her breasts. I licked my lips, imagining what it would be like to lick her cleavage, trailing my path up and down her body.

I bet she tastes like cherries and feels like heaven.

Once I reached her, I placed my hand on her bare shoulder, which felt warm and slippery under my palm.

I wonder what else is warm and slippery.

“Get a hold of yourself, scumbag,” I whispered in disgust. “This is about connecting with a friend.”

Even though you want to connect in some other way.

I grunted and shook my head guiltily. I was as much a douche as I imagined Ethan and Dwight to be, and at least those guys were open about their intentions.

Head in the game, Tyler. Head in the game.

Shaking off my nerves, I squeezed my fingers against her slim frame.

“If you want to walk out of here with that hand intact, you better get it off me right now,” she snapped angrily.

“Wow! You have changed since high school,” I exclaimed in both surprise and amusement.

She spun around and widened her eyes. “Jesse! What are you doing here?”

Following you. Stalking you.

Begrudgingly, I lifted my hand and scratched at my throat. “Figured our BFF would ditch you sooner or later.” I motioned toward the dance floor at what now looked like the beginnings of a softcore porn. “By the looks of it, I was right.”

Rocky smirked. “In her defense, she waited an hour.”

“Oh, wow! A whole hour! Call the presses.” I laughed at her answering scowl.

“Whatever. I don’t care. At least she’s having a good time.” Rocky caught the bartender’s eye and ordered a drink. My body involuntarily tensed up, remembering how not long ago it was me chugging down drinks instead of her.

“Here you go, Honey.” The bartender slid a glass in front of her. Though I wanted nothing more than to slap it from her hand, I knew she was an adult. She was also not my mother.

She wasn’t me.

“So, what were you going to do tonight if you didn’t come to save me from the pangs of loneliness?” Her cherry colored lips wrapped around the thin black straw, puckering as she sipped on some fruity looking drink.

Good. Shouldn’t be too much alcohol in that frou-frou drink.

“Eh, I was just going to stay home. Probably sleep,” I answered truthfully.

“Wow, so exciting!”

“Oh yeah. Riveting.” I watched as she plucked a cherry off the top of her drink and placed it between her lips.

And there goes my dick!

As inconspicuously as I could, I shifted my body to hide my waking arousal and coughed out, “What would you have been doing if Stephanie didn’t drag you here? Talking to Ethan?” I narrowed my eyes, feeling slight irritation when a certain man came to mind.

She threw her head back and sighed. “Okay, what is your obsession with Ethan? Every time we speak to one another, you mention his name.”

Crap. Have I really been talking about Ethan that much? I never noticed it.

“Guess I’m still protective of you,” I murmured quickly.

“Oh, but there’s really nothing to be protective about.” She flicked her hand around as she spoke, pausing momentarily to place the straw back into her mouth to take a quick sip. “To answer your question, I probably would have just been at home watching the ball drop while eating pizza.”

My eyes brightened. “That…actually sounds much better than this. This just seems like a weak scene to me.”

“What’s your idea of a good scene?” She tilted her head to the side as if she were closely examining me. Oddly, I felt as if I were the subject of some psychology experiment or at the very least a criminal in police interrogation.

“Hmm…Watching the ball drop while eating pizza,” I joked.

Rocky broke into laughter, and I took a moment to appreciate her smile. It was sincere, not fake like all the other women in the club. In fact, it lit up her whole face. Still giggling, her shoulders shook up and down, causing her drink to slosh over to top of her glass.

“Shit!” She exclaimed as the red tinted liquid trailed down her bare chest and onto her sparkly top.

My gaze wandered down her cleavage, which was now wet and glistening. So much for hiding my boner.

“Guess some things never change. You’re still a klutz.”

“Ugh, this isn’t even my shirt! Steph’s going to kill me.” She seriously looked like she was about to cry. She couldn’t really care about a piece of fabric that much, could she? If it were me, I would have just thrown my shirt away and not given it a second thought.

Her nose grew pink and her eyes glistened, threatening to release a wall of tears. Whether her impending breakdown was due to destroying what looked like a twenty-dollar shirt or from drinking more alcohol than I had thought, I felt a strong need to distract her. Grabbing her arm, I motioned toward the dance floor. “Nah, I don’t think she’ll notice. You’re fine. Just forget about it. Let’s go have some fun while we’re here.”

“And do what?” she demanded.

“Let’s dance.”

Was dancing really a good idea? It seemed that every time Rocky moved my dick grew harder.

Well, there’s no backing out now.

“You? Dance?” she asked in disbelief.

“Why is that so surprising?” I laughed at the bewilderment on her face.

Her eyes blinked as if seeing me for the first time. “You’re Jesse.”

“Yeah, and you’re Rocky.”

She was unamused and gestured toward my all black ensemble. “You know what I mean. You were the rocker guy—the bad boy. Not someone who would even know how to dance to Top 40 music.”

Revved up by her reaction, I tugged at her again. “Well, you’d be surprised. Come on!”

We navigated our way to the middle of the floor, dodging what felt like a hundred slimy bodies. I had no idea how people did stuff like this on a weekly basis and for enjoyment! It took all my might not to dry heave from the smell of sweat, which permeated the dance floor. Trying my best to ignore the swarming crowd, I turned to my one oasis in the desert of horny drunkards. Unfortunately, she seemed as stiff as a board and unsure how to even move her feet.

I shook my head and gently grabbed onto her hips, fighting back the rush of blood in my core. “Relax, Rocky! Dance. Don’t you know how to dance?”

“I know how to dance!” she growled back at me.

I flashed a teasing smile. “Then dance.”

It took her a few minutes before she visibly relaxed. One at a time her shoulders loosened, lowering from her neck. She took a deep breath and began swaying her hips—slowly at first, then faster. Though I felt self-conscious myself, it was far easier for me to lose myself to the music watching Rocky’s sensual movements. I kept my eyes on her hips, which circled in time to the bass, and imagined that it was my whole body coaxing her to sway like that. It’d be my groin nudging her hips to and fro, causing her to throw her head back in ecstasy and excitement. It didn’t take long at all before I felt my own body mimicking the movements in my mind. I began dancing the way I’d imagine would pleasure her. I knew I was digging myself into a rabbit hole, but after years’ worth of pent up sexual frustration and tension, I was about to explode. I needed her.

As I was teetering on the edge of becoming lost in my fantasy world, a loud screeching reminiscent of metal nails against a chalkboard snapped me back to reality.

What am I doing? This is homecoming all over again. I’m just going to get her hopes up only to leave again.

Still, I owed it to myself for one night of fun…right?

I glanced up at the DJ booth and grimaced when I saw him bouncing his head up and down to whatever electronic squeaking he was playing. I scowled and lifted my hand, throwing him thumbs down. “Ugh, what is this crap?”

Rocky pushed sweat-soaked bangs from her face. “Guess, it’s techno. Wanna sit down?”

As much as I hated the crap, there was no way I’d cut my time with Rocky on the dance floor short. Especially since it was the one night I’d allow myself to be with her. I shook my head and grinned at the slight pout of her lips. “Nah, when in Rome, right?”

Before long the two of us were jumping up and down, waving our arms in the air like crazy people. My stomach hurt from laughing so much and for a moment I began to wonder if I really did like techno music.