His Confession

by S. Valentine

“What is it?”

  “Take me to Westhaven to pick up my car?”

  “Why is your car in Westhaven?” Mallory’s forehead wrinkled in confusion.

  “The last couple of nights…” Gabi sighed. “I don’t even know where to begin.”

  “What happened?”

  “To cut a long story short, I found matches in Lawrence’s pocket, from some club, got some idea that he was cheating on me.”

  “What?” Her mouth dropped. “Well, is he cheating on you?”

  Gabi shrugged a shoulder. “I confronted him, and he swore he’d never do that to me.”

  “Shit. I hope not, Gab.” The tyres screeched on the ground as Mallory set off. “So, what happened at the club?”

  “I found no clues. But, I ended up staying there and partying with a girl called Lexi.”

  Mallory smiled. “About time you let your hair down. How did you get home?”

  “I got a ride.” Gabi knew she could always tell Mallory things in confidence.

  “And who gave you this ride?” She raised a brow, then turned her head back to concentrate on the road.

  “Some guy.”

  “Some guy?” Mallory was looking at her again. “Hmmm, why have you got the cat-that-got-the-cream look?”

  Gabi studied her pink nails, noticing she had chipped one. “The owner of the club, Darion. He offered.”

  “Sounds eventful, probably the most fun you’ve had with a man in ages.” Mallory chuckled. Although she could tolerate Lawrence in small doses, Mallory had witnessed Gabi’s fun personality take a backseat, especially when Gabi’s fiancé was around. “Well, when we collect your car, we could have a drink in this club too, if you like?”

  “I’m not sure that’s a good idea, Mal.”

  “Why are you avoiding going in? Did you kiss this guy?”

  “No, I did not,” Gabi exclaimed.

  “But you fancy him, right?”

  Gabi shook her head, trying to keep a straight face.

  “Don’t lie to me, Gabi. Is he hot?”

  “I wouldn’t know, Mal. I don’t look at other men.”

  “Bullshit! It’s natural to notice a hot guy.”

  Gabi burst out laughing, her crimson cheeks giving her away. “Okay, he’s not bad.”

  “Well, I’ll see for myself later.” Mallory smirked. “And we are going in for one drink. Just a Coke, or something.”

  Gabi hesitated. It was no use arguing with Mallory; she was pushy and always got her own way. Perhaps it would be polite to say thanks to Darion again for the ride home, maybe buy him a drink, although it was his club, he could help himself.

  When Gabi was finally on the fourth floor of Miller & Co. Publishers, she retreated to her office, closing the door behind her. She needed to be in silence to concentrate and finish the manuscript. She put her reading glasses on, slipped off her heels, and made herself comfortable. The woman in the story sounded wild and adventurous, not sticking to any rules. Gabi wished she was more of a risk taker. She kept reading, and before she knew it, several hours had passed. Mallory disturbed her when she brought a coffee.

  “How’s it going, sweet cheeks?” she asked, tapping the door shut with her foot.

  “I’ve got four more chapters, and then I’m done.” She looked up.

  “I edited like, one chapter of mine, I can’t get into it today.” She placed the cup on the desk before lighting a cigarette and sitting down, resting her feet on the table.

  “You know you’re not supposed to smoke in here.” Gabi smiled, reminding her friend like she had done for years.

  “Yeah, yeah, crank the window open, would you?”

  Gabi pushed the window open, allowing a breeze to enter the room. “So, how’s Steve?”

  “Great, as ever.”

  Steve was Mallory’s perfect match. They always spent quality time together; whether it was partying, eating out, exploring, travelling, even watching a movie indoors, they had a good time. Gabi sometimes felt envious and wished that her relationship was more like theirs.

  “Are you looking forward to seeing Darion later?” Mallory teased. “Perhaps you two will get it on.”

  “No, he has a girlfriend.” She shuffled the manuscript, creating a neat pile. “Not just one either.”

  Mallory almost spat out her coffee. “You’re joking?”

  “Well, he kissed two of his bar staff.”

  “Maybe he’s got an open relationship thing going on, or maybe he just appreciates meaningless flings.”

  “It’s not my concern,” Gabi said.

  “Yeah, right.” Mallory regarded her suspiciously.

  “Mallory, stop it. I’m engaged to Lawrence.”

  “I know, I know.” She threw the cigarette out of the window. “I just can’t wait for the day when you pack that old man in.”

  “He’s not that old.”

  “Well, he acts it.”

  Gabi ignored her friend’s cruel comment.

  “I worry about you an awful lot.”

  Gabi felt her chest tighten at the way Mallory was looking at her, with sympathy. She hated it. It made her want to wallow in self-pity, and second-guess every little aspect about her life, and not just relationship-wise.

  “What do you mean?” she asked.

  “You need to get the old Gabi back. Don’t let Lawrence kill your fucking soul,” she erupted, shaking her head vehemently. “You need more confidence, for starters.” She huffed. “Perhaps you should go to assertive classes, or something. Make new friends, get new hobbies.”

  Gabi mulled over the idea in her head. She’d been so focused on keeping Lawrence happy over the years that she had completely neglected her own happiness, the things that made her who she was.

  “What was it you told me you used to love…dancing! Join a new class.” She folded her arms across her chest.

  Gabi had done performing arts in her college days. Music and dancing made her feel alive.

  “Maybe.” She shrugged.

  “No ‘maybe.’ Do it.”

  Mallory stood up and made her way to the door. “I’ll see you later.” She blew a kiss. “And you’d better get those nails fixed.” She closed the door behind her gently.

  She examined her nails, and decided that she would email her boss, Phil, and ask for the afternoon off. She worked so hard, and hadn’t had time off in a while. Phil was easy going; Gabi couldn’t see him having a problem with it. Plus, he was pretty close to her parents, one of the reasons she was lucky enough to have her own office. He replied minutes later, advising her it was fine. She was pleased. She had several hours to get her nails done, maybe even a facial and a pedicure. Picking up the phone, she called her regular nearby salon and made an appointment.

  “Where are you going?” Mallory asked at the elevators.

  “I’ve booked the afternoon off, I do need my nails fixing, and maybe a pedicure or something.”

  “Okay, I’ll see you back here at five. Have fun.”

  Three hours later, Gabi stepped out of the salon feeling rejuvenated, like a new woman. Her hair had been washed, dried, and curled, and now hung glamorously down her back. Her coral polished nails shimmered in the daylight. Back in the office everybody complimented her, stating that they preferred that particular hairstyle.

  “Wow, I love it, Gabi.” Mallory stroked a ringlet. “Trying to impress a certain someone?” She winked.

  “No,” Gabi responded defensively, her voice coming out a little higher pitched than usual.

  “I’m teasing. Come on, let’s go get your car.”

  Mallory was eager to get to the club. Gabi, on the other hand, was a bundle of nerves.

  Chapter Seven

  They had had no problem finding the club with Mallory’s sat-nav. Gabi was relieved, as she knew that she definitely wouldn’t have remembered the journey by heart. The sky was beginning to get dark, and the snow showed no signs of disappearing.

  Gabi wasn’t overly enthusiastic about their plans to have a dri
nk at the club. Overwhelmed with anxiety, she opened the window a little, to allow fresh air to fill her lungs. She needed to stop getting so worked up over Darion. But there was something about him that made her slightly bashful and excited at the same time.

  Once outside The Black Door, Mallory stopped in her tracks. “Gabi, you did not tell me it was a strip club.” An amused expression crossed her face as she pushed open the front door. “So, it’s upstairs?”

  Gabi looked at the upstairs door; she hadn’t noticed it before. She wondered what was inside, considering music was coming from there. Did Darion also own it? “No. It’s through here.”

  Mallory shoved Gabi to the bar excitedly. “We haven’t been out in so long,” she screeched, grinning. “We seriously need to go out more, Gab.”

  “I agree.”

  “I know Lawrence hates you spending time with me, but screw him.” She giggled. “Do we not always have fun?”

  “We do. And Lawrence doesn’t hate you at all.”

  “Sweetie, stop protecting him. The feeling’s mutual, I’m not offended.”

  Gabi remained silent.

  She and Mallory pulled out stools at the bar and ordered a Coke each. Gabi saw no sign of Lexi, or Darion. The club was quieter than usual, as it was still early, and the atmosphere was chilled. The music was at a volume where Gabi didn’t have to shout to be heard. Without the dancers entertaining on stage, or hanging from the poles, it resembled a normal bar. Gabi felt herself relax.

  “Fancy a shot?” Gina appeared from the stockroom.

  “No, thanks. I’m here to pick up my car.”

  “I love your hair.” Gina fingered a tendril before sauntering off.

  “So do I.”

  Hearing the husky, familiar voice sent a delicious shiver down Gabi’s spine. Trying to keep her lips a straight line, when all she wanted to do was grin, proved difficult. She twisted around, feigning nonchalance. Darion Milano. He was wearing black jeans and a matching t-shirt that clung to his impressive biceps. His hair was slightly dishevelled, like he’d just rolled out of bed, and he hadn’t yet shaved the light stubble that shadowed his jaw. He looked sexy, rough and rugged, and definitely still appealing.

  Mallory turned around to look at him. Her expression was one of delight.

  “I’m here to collect my car. We thought we’d pop in here first.”

  “Right.” He nodded.

  “Erm, this is my friend, Mallory,” she added, realising she’d forgotten her manners. “Mal, this is Darion.”

  “Hey.” He winked.

  “Nice place you got here.”

  “Oh, you haven’t seen it all.”

  All? He must have owned the upstairs too. Curiosity swept over Gabi.

  Darion shouted to Gina to get his white t-shirt, black blazer, and hair gel from the back room. She obeyed and handed him some neatly folded clothes, along with the gel. He pulled his t-shirt over his head, revealing his naked torso. And as he turned, they caught sight of his muscular shoulder blades, which led to a trim waist. Mallory’s mouth hung open as she nudged Gabi. Now dressed in the white t-shirt and blazer, Darion scooped some gel into his hands, rubbed them together, and smoothed back his hair. Gabi couldn’t help but notice the transformation. He looked handsome. Smart.

  “Meeting a client,” he informed them.

  “Darion, you can’t, you’re drunk,” Gina sternly told him.

  “Relax, darlin’.” He pulled her toward him and kissed her forehead. Gabi felt a stab of jealousy. Even Mallory’s smile had vanished. Darion told Gina he’d see her later. He backed away slowly, and set off for the door. He only managed a few strides before customers began approaching him, shaking his hand, satisfied and appreciative grins on their faces. When Darion finally managed to pull away, Gabi turned her attention back to Mallory.

  “Well, that was brief.” Mallory crossed her arms over her chest.

  Gabi shrugged. Darion was a popular man.

  “You were right though, he’s some serious hot stuff, what I would do to him.” She burst into laughter. “If I was single, of course,” she added.

  Gathering up their drinks, they ambled toward the sofas in the centre of the room. The two of them made themselves comfortable, and they focused on the dancers that were now occupying the stage. When fifteen minutes passed, Gabi made her way to the bathroom. She stared at her reflection in the mirror before adding red gloss to her lips. As she walked out, she noticed Darion standing in the gentlemen’s bathroom, talking on his mobile.

  “Mr. Taylor, you will be more than impressed. Come down, check out the club, bring your wife…definitely. Okay…see you soon.”

  He ended the call, sliding the mobile into his pocket. Gabi watched as he turned on the tap, and splashed water on his face. She was about to leave when he turned around and noticed her.

  “Gabi,” he called out. “Can I speak to you for a second?”

  “Um…sure.”

  When he showed no sign of leaving the bathroom, she entered. He snaked his arm around her shoulders, his weight resting on her body. He rubbed his nose along her cheekbone gently, and leant into her ear to whisper, “Would you say you’re open-minded? Or set in your ways?”

  She thought for a moment. She definitely wasn’t set in her ways; she could sometimes be persuaded to try many things. She wouldn’t hesitate at trying pretty much anything once, as long as it was within reason. Her lips formed into a pout. “I’d say I’m pretty open-minded.”

  He nodded contently, as if she had chosen the correct answer.

  “Why do you ask?”

  “No reason.” His arm dropped to her waist, but he pulled her into him, guiding her back to the bar. She could feel the heat of his body, smell the sweetness of his cologne. When he tightened his grip, bringing her even closer, she badly wanted to wrap her arms around him and bury her face in his firm chest, to be as close to him as possible. To feel protected. Wanted. Desired. All the things she lacked from Lawrence.

  Darion surprised her by leaning down into her neck, his breath tickling her skin. “I asked because there are a lot of things I’d just love to do with you, Gabi.”

  She looked at him. Even though he knew she had a fiancé, he wasn’t backing down. He was making it clear that he was available. He was trouble.

  Mallory saw them and waved them over excitedly. She was sitting with Lexi in one of the private booths. Gabi tore herself away from Darion and joined them.

  “Hey, you came back soon.” Lexi grinned. “I just met your friend here. She’s cool.”

  Gabi perched on the sofa. “I came to collect my car. And to thank both you and Darion again.”

  “Don’t worry about it.” Lexi waved dismissively.

  “How were you gonna thank me?” Darion asked, and she was unsure of whether he was teasing or being dead serious. His face was devoid of emotion.

  Gabi lifted her drink and drained the contents to excuse her silence.

  After they had talked for a while, Darion suggested they play a game of blackjack for money. The game quickly became intense and competitive. Within minutes, Mallory and Lexi had lost. It was just Gabi and Darion left. He eyed his cards, and then looked up at her, clearly trying to read her expression. Gabi gave nothing away.

  She watched as he slowly placed a card down on the middle of the table. Gabi looked at her cards. She refrained from smiling; she had been dealt a good hand. She placed three cards down, and then knocked on the table to indicate that she had one card left. Darion grinned, placing four cards down, and knocked the table himself, holding one card up, his gaze fixed on her.

  Damn. She picked up another card. He also picked up another card. She checked her two cards, and felt smug again—they matched. She knocked the table again. Darion took in a slow breath, staring at his cards, and then slowly put one down. Gabi placed her two cards on top of his. She had won.

  “Fuck. You won.” He threw his head back and laughed.

  She giggled, happily scooping the notes int
o her handbag.

  “Another game?” he asked.

  “No, Daz.” Lexi fixed him with a stern look. “You always get carried away, and you know it.”

  Darion’s lips opened, and then closed, as if deciding it was best to remain quiet.

  “Here comes my best customer.” Lexi tilted her head, observing the crowd. “See you later, Gabi. Nice to meet you, Mallory.”

  “Likewise.”

  Lexi sauntered off to meet a gentleman at the bar.

  “Come on, let’s dance.” Mallory grabbed hold of Gabi’s hand, yanking her to her feet.

  Gabi allowed Mallory to twirl her around. They danced in their little corner, talking and laughing away, treating the occasion as a girl’s night out, which was long overdue. Gabi’s sides began to ache from Mallory’s endless jokes, and when she caught her breath, she made her way to the bathroom again. Once inside, she sat on the toilet lid, and allowed her head to fall in her hands. She closed her eyes, unable to refrain from chuckling to herself. What was she doing back at the club?

  Maybe it was partly due to Lawrence messaging her, stating that he’d be late home again. The thought of sitting before the television, shovelling down a ready-made meal, hadn’t seemed appetizing. He always had somewhere else to be, other than home. She had a feeling that their relationship would never improve. Sooner or later, Gabi knew she’d get sick and tired of trying.

  Feeling someone’s presence, she looked up to see Darion standing over her, a ghost of a smile on his lips.

  “Your friend was looking for you.” He crouched down and took her small hands in his, the caressing of his fingers making her throat go dry and her heart hammer against her chest. Trust Mallory to send Darion looking for her. She knew her plan.

  “I’m tired,” she mumbled, her eyelids beginning to feel heavy.

  “Me too, beautiful.” He grazed her neck gently with his lips. “Me too.”

  Gabi groaned inwardly, the vixen inside her telling her to forget Lawrence and the crap he brought to the table, and kiss Darion. Just one little kiss. A feel of his soft lips. Just to see if it ignited something within. Just to see if there really was a connection between them. She willed herself to be strong, but it was a battle she was losing fast.