Chapter 5

I had a lot on my mind since my father was in the hospital.

Also, Jacey had a lot going on with her.

My heart went out to my friend. I wished there was something I could do.

She didn’t want to accept the help, and I hated that.

The only thing I could do was pray that everything worked out for her in the end.

She shouldn’t stay and accept what that man did to her.

Then, my mind was on my father and mother, wondering if they were seeing each other behind Brenda’s back.

That would be some shit, but I could see it happening. I didn’t know how to feel about that.

I was at work, trying not to get myself wasted, but I had too many emotions swirling around inside of me.

It had me anxious in a way I had never been before.

Tonight was a slow night, and I hated it.

None of my favorite customers were in the bar.

I barely talked to any of the bartenders.

I couldn’t wait until it was closing time.

The energy in the bar shifted as a feeling hit me hard in the stomach.

I turned my head to the entrance of the bar and saw my mystery man strolling in with his everyday scowl.

No man had ever affected me the way he had, and I wondered why.

I had never been the type to chase behind a man to get them to talk to me, but I wanted this mystery man.

I felt crazy for watching him, but I couldn’t help it. He got his usually drink and vibed by himself with his cell phone in his hand.

Since a bartender worked the bar, I went to talk to him. Since we met, it hadn’t been pleasant. There was no telling how this one conversation would go, but I’d give it my all.

“Hey! How are you?” I asked, putting my arms behind my back and staring down at him.

For a minute I thought he’d ignore me. My heart throbbed in my chest when he pierced his eyes on me. I gulped but stayed put.

He scoffed. “You again.”

The only thing I could do was smile at him. “Yes, it’s me. I promise I won’t take up too much of your time.”

He grunted. I could see that he wasn’t feeling me, but I wouldn’t give up. I wanted him since I first laid eyes on him. He was just a hard ass person to get to know. I knew when to back off, but right now wasn’t that time.

“People come to the bar and socialize and have a good time. You’re all alone. Are you waiting for someone? A girlfriend maybe?”

He only stared at me. I tried hard not to let it frustrate me, but it was.

He leaned forward and stare at me with piercing eyes. “Why do you want to know?”

My eyes widened at his response, mainly because I didn’t know he’d say something back to me.

I folded my arms across my chest. “Because I want to know. You’re a party pooper.”

“Man, whatever. I’d like to be alone.”

I nodded, respecting that. “How’s your sibling?”

His eyes nearly bucked out of his head at my words.

I hadn’t expected myself to ask him that, but it slipped out.

I wondered if he’d answer me. If he didn’t, I’d be okay with that too.

It helped that he talked a bit but not as much as I’d like him to.

He was no doubt a tough nut to crack, but I wouldn’t give up.

He tilted his head. “Why do you want to know?”

My mouth dropped as I gazed at him, unable to say anything. That was the last straw. As much as I tried, I couldn’t shake this man. I’d rather give up while I had the chance. I saw that he wouldn’t talk to me. What little I did get out of him counted for something.

I waved a hand in front of me, finally finding my voice to say something to him. “You know what…” I chuckled lightly. “Don’t even worry about it. Enjoy the rest of your night.” With that, I walked away from him without looking back although it was tempting to do so.

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