Chapter 24
A Dangerous Web We Weave – Kayla
T he insistent thump of the bass reverberates through my chest, making my heart race. I glance around at the writhing sea of bodies surrounding me and wonder how I ended up here. The crazy party scene is a far cry from my usual quiet nights in, but I can’t deny there’s a certain energy to it all that’s infectious.
Despite everything that happened last night, Callie has thrown herself into the thick of it. She’s dancing with another guy she met just minutes ago, throwing her head back with wild abandon as they grind against each other.
I watch them, and I’m envious of her ability to let loose and enjoy herself without a care in the world. Although, I’m also expecting more tears tonight as she reminisces about Dirk.
“Can I get you another drink?” The bartender’s voice startles me out of my thoughts. He’s young, buff, and grinning at me—and not just like a man who wants to charm a customer into a good tip.
I hesitate. I’m not a good drunk, and the idea of showing that side of myself to my new friends and co-workers doesn’t appeal to me. But one or two more shouldn’t hurt, right?
“Yes, please,” I respond with a small grin, feeling the weight of my decision. “I’ll have another glass of pinot grigio.”
“Coming right up,” he says with a wink before turning to grab the bottle.
The noise and heat of the room press in on me and for a moment, I close my eyes, trying to find some semblance of peace amidst the chaos. When I open them again, Callie has disappeared further into the crowd, leaving me feeling even more alone and exposed. I rub my arms, suddenly feeling self-conscious in my short, tight dress.
I felt much more comfortable when we were out in public, and I had a jacket covering my bare shoulders. However, Callie insisted that I check it for the night.
“Only weirdos wear jackets in the club,” her words slurred from the alcohol we pre-gamed with back at the hotel.
The bartender reappears behind the bar, effortlessly mixing drinks for a group of rowdy patrons before making his way back over to me.
“Here you go.” He slides another glass of shimmery deliciousness over to me.
“Sorry about the wait.”
“No problem,” I respond, reaching for my wallet. “How much do I owe you?”
He waves me off with a smile. “Don’t worry about it. I don’t charge women as pretty as you.”
I feel my cheeks flush, and I can’t help but laugh nervously.
Then, after composing myself a little, I’m happy I didn’t let Callie convince me to let her do my hair again because it’s down, and I can flirtatiously tuck some of it behind my ear while taking a sip of wine. “The bar must lose a lot of money then.”
“Actually, I’m pretty specific,” he mutters, leaning against the counter. “I already know that you’re gorgeous. And I’m Mehdi, by the way.”
He holds his hand out towards me, and I take it with a kind smile. “Actually, it’s Kayla.”
“I like it.”
I glance at him, taking in his dark eyes, tanned skin, long hair, and tattooed arms. He’s attractive, no doubt, but there’s something missing - that spark, that fire. Maybe I just need to give it time.
“Thank you,” I murmur, still uncertain.
Mehdi grins devilishly, undeterred by my hesitation. “I get off in a little under an hour. Maybe you could save me a dance?”
I bite my bottom lip, torn between my doubts and the desire to let loose. But I’m here to have fun, right? To forget about Jack and the risks that come with wanting him. Sure, I know Amine will be here any minute, but we don’t have to stay tethered to each other all night.
“Alright,” I finally agree, nodding. “I’d like that.”
“Great,” Mehdi replies, his smile widening. “Looking forward to it.” With that, he turns away, leaving me to sip my drink and contemplate what lies ahead.
“Fancy seeing you here, Miss Allen,” a deep voice murmurs beside me, making me jump in surprise. I turn to find Jack perched on the stool next to mine. He looks so handsome, his uncharacteristically tousled hair and smoldering gaze making my skin prickle with desire.
By his joking nature, I guess he doesn’t know I saw him with Harper out on the patio this morning—laughing and having a ball together.
Just like old times, I guessed by the way they seemed to effortlessly co-exist next to one another. It was like their bodies were matching puzzle pieces.
“Where’s Harper?” I ask while raising an eyebrow when I look around and fail to see her.
“Harper? I don’t—I don’t know. Kayla, there’s nothing going on between us.”
I turn my back to him and down my drink. “Whatever. I don’t care.”
At the perfect time, Amine and some friends appear. Once again, he’s wearing a lose button up shirt, and I imagine what it would be like to unhook the last few he has fastened.
I now know why they call it liquid courage, as I feel bold enough to walk right up to him, swirl around his body with my fingers lingering on his chest and back.
“Well, hello.”
“Hey.” I bite my lower lip.
“Shall we?”
I nod and allow him to lead me to the dance floor.
The thumping from the speakers is felt deeply in my chest.
“You look lovely tonight,” he says.
“Thank you.”
Then, he dips me, and I make the bold move to kiss him.
When we part, I’m happy to see that he’s smiling. Then, I glance over at Jack and see him slowly blink, clench his jaw, and look away.