by S. Donahue
“Joella, why don’t you go get in bed?”
She just shuffled around. Just my luck, I now had to touch her. I decided to carry her up the stairs. I lifted her up into my arms. She threw her arms around me unintentionally. I laid her on the bed and covered her with a blanket. I watched her sleep for a minute. Somehow I knew this woman was going to change my life. I wasn’t sure how, but I felt a claim to her. I moved a piece of her hair that fell on her face. I walked away and closed the door behind me. I went back downstairs to turn the television and lights off. I figured I might as well go to sleep myself.
I undressed down to my boxers and got in my bed. I was dying with her in the room across from me. I had to take care of myself, because no one else was. I am breaking records today.
Around 2 A.M., I was woken by a sound. It sounded like a scream. I didn’t know where it was coming from. I opened my door. I thought it might be coming from Joella’s room. I didn’t care about her privacy, when she might be in danger. I opened the door slowly. She was crying in her sleep, saying “No, no, not again, not again!” I didn’t want to wake her, but I also didn’t want to leave her. I went and sat on the edge of the bed. I held her hand and rubbed her head. I whispered her name, hoping she would wake up and come out of it. A few minutes into her nightmare, she woke up startled and got scared when she saw me sitting there.
“Why are you in here?” she yelled.
“It’s okay. You were having a nightmare. I heard you from the other room.”
She looked down to see me holding her hand and she yanked it away.
“I’m okay. You can go back to your room.”
“I can’t just leave you.”
“Please just go,” she insisted.
“Joella, are you okay? Seriously!!”
“Yes. I have nightmares, sometimes. I’ll survive.”
“What was it about?”
“I don’t want to talk about it.”
“I want to help you.”
“You can’t take the pain away. No one can. I just act like it doesn’t exist, but these nightmares don’t let me forget.”
“You can confide in me.”
She looked at me. She wanted to tell me, but I think she was afraid. She could trust me. I don’t think I could ever hurt her.
“I was engaged seven years ago when I went into the academy. He was a police officer. I was set to join the Philadelphia Police Department when I graduated five years ago. I was going to join him. We were so happy. I was scheduled to start as a rookie cop in a week. We were going out to celebrate that night, but he never made it. He was killed in the line of duty. He was shot down in the street by a gang. They never to this day found the actual shooter. I couldn’t join the PPD after that. I was devastated. I applied to the Boston Police Department and when they accepted me, I moved right away. My family was pissed. They didn’t understand. My sister was pregnant at the time and I abandoned her. I buried myself in my work and made detective very quickly. I have nightmares about the whole thing.”
My fucking heart was breaking for this woman. I just wanted to make everything right for her and take all her pain away.
“What were you dreaming about tonight? You said no, no, not again.”
“I always dream of Roger’s death; that was his name, but tonight was different.”
“What was so different?”
“She shook her head like she didn’t want to tell me.”
“Just tell me, please.”
“You were in it.”
“Me…?”
“Yes. You were shot while I was trying to save you during a drug deal gone wrong and you died in my arms.”
She busted out crying. I needed to comfort her in some kind of way, but I didn’t want to upset her further.
“I just think it was this whole day. There was a lot going on.”
“It’s going to be alright. Look, I’m still here. You’re not getting rid of me that easily. I know you’re nervous, but I will not ditch you. I will be watching you the whole time. I promised Jeremy and I will keep my word.”
“You’re missing the point. I’m supposed to be the strong one. I’m the cop. I’ve never worked without backup before.”
“We don’t always have to be strong, remember that. We can work as a team. I promise.”
“Brendan, I’m calling Watson tomorrow and telling him I’m off the case. I can’t do it.”
“I’m not going to let you quit after everything you went through today. Besides, who will I have to fight with if you quit?”
“I’m sure there are plenty of people who would want to fight with you.”
“You’re so funny.” I was not letting this woman walk out of my life. There was no way in hell that was happening.
She looked up at me and said she would sleep on it and let me know in the morning.
“Will you be okay tonight?”
“Yes, I’ll see you in the morning.”
“Good night.” I shut the light out and closed the door.
My heart was racing at the thought of never seeing her again. I couldn’t let that happen. I just had to wait and see what tomorrow would bring. The suspense was killing me.
Chapter Seven
Joella
I stayed up half the night thinking. I made a commitment to myself, the police department and to Brendan. I was not going to back down. I am a well-respected detective in this city and I am going to start acting like one. I think the fear of being attracted to someone brought back past issues.
I can’t believe I had a nightmare in a stranger’s home. Don’t get me wrong, he was great about it, but I’m completely embarrassed. I need to just go back to my professional stance. It was so much easier.
I couldn’t sleep, so I got out of bed early and found Marco in the kitchen. I introduced myself and told him he didn’t have to cook breakfast. I would be more than happy to cook. I told him I was giving him the day off because he deserved it and everybody should take time off. After talking with him, I found out that he works three jobs and is married with two small children. I told him to go home with his children and spend time with them. He was more than excited. He showed me where all the items in the kitchen were. I got started cooking the bacon right away. I was also making ham and cheese omelets. They were always my favorite as a little girl.
Twenty minutes later, I turned to see Brendan standing in the kitchen entryway. He looked shocked to see me.
“Good morning,” he uttered.
“Would you like coffee?” I asked.
“Sure, I can get it.”
“No, no, have a seat. I’ll get it.”
“I’m surprised to see you. Where’s Marco?”
“I gave him the day off.”
“You did?”
“Yes. I wanted to make breakfast for you as a way of thanking you for last night. You were a really good sport about it.”
“It was nothing, really.”
“It was something,” I said, as I whisked the eggs together.
“Are you going to call Jeremy today?” he asked skeptically.
“I decided to see this case through.”
He looked like he had an expression of relief on his face. I know how much this case means to him.
“No one really knows what I’ve been through. It felt good to let someone in on my secret. I’m not a quitter. I’m going to find out what’s going on in your establishment. Once I close the case, I’m going to take some time off to reflect on my life.”
“So, you’ll be leaving.”
“Well, I won’t be living here forever. I do have a life that I need to go back to.” Brendan got this look on his face. He looked pissed off. I needed to make sure he knew this was temporary.
“You do realize I’m only here until this case is over.”
“Yep. Of course. You have a life to get back to. I understand.” He picked the paper back up and flipped to the sports section. He folded the crime section and put it next to my plate. I watched
from the stove and smiled to myself. He could really be sweet when he wanted to.
“So, are you ready for today?” I asked him.
“No.” He continued to read the paper.
“Are you okay?”
“Yes. I’m reading.”
“Why are you being a dick?”
“Because you’re a tease.”
“What? How dare you?” I know he didn’t just call me a fucking tease.
“You know I want you. I know you want me because you sure as hell showed it last night. Now, you want to talk about taking off and finding yourself or whatever shit you’re talking about.”
“Are you serious right now? I’ve known you a day. A fucking day. I’m here to save your ass and all you worry about is getting me in bed.”
He laughed out loud. He actually laughed. He was annoying the shit out of me right now, but it was making me hot. I was burning inside.
“You wish, doll,” he said
Now it was my turn to laugh.
“You have a big head.”
“You should know, you’ve seen it.”
“You fucking pig. You can’t keep it in your pants. Just when I thought you were nice, you open your mouth.”
“No comment. I’m nice. I’m always nice. You, for some reason, like arguing with me.”
“Don’t speak to me!” I yell at him.
“Fine,” he said shaking the paper.
“Fine, I hope you enjoy your eggs.”
“Don’t go. Stop. Come and have breakfast with me.”
Is he fucking serious, after everything he said. I’ll pass.
“No thanks. I’m going to work in my room.”
“All day?”
“Yes. I’ll be ready at two-thirty to go to the bar.” I turned and left the kitchen. He came up behind me.
“I’m sorry,” he whispered.
“It’s okay,” I said, without turning around.
“It’s not okay. I shouldn’t have said those things to you.”
“Whatever.” I continued to walk away.
He grabbed my arm and turned me toward him.
“Say you forgive me.”
“No.”
“Say it. I can’t take you being mad at me.”
“No.”
“Do I have to show you my apology?” he asked.
I stood there trying to think about what he meant. It was too late because he pulled me into his arms and kissed me. I was in shock. It was unreal. His tongue was in my mouth moving around, in and out caressing mine. It felt so good. I was so turned on. I started to feel a burning in my core. My panties were soaked because my pussy was dripping. I had to come to my senses before this went even further than it already had. This can’t happen as much as I want it to. I have to fight it, but it feels so good. I pushed him away from me.
“What are you doing?” he asked
“Isn’t that what cock teasers do?” I said back.
“Gawd, you frustrate me,” he said in his sexy Boston accent and turned angrily back into the kitchen.
I went upstairs into my room and turned on my laptop. I entered some notes that I compiled about Brendan’s character, his ex-wife, etc. I then Google the topic of strippers; how they dance, dress, and what their hair and makeup look like. I wanted to go with the exotic look. I showered and flat ironed my hair. I applied make-up like the YouTube video instructed. I looked into the mirror and I actually looked really beautiful. In order to get through this, I would have to keep telling myself that. I hadn’t heard or seen Brendan all day. I believe he may have gone out earlier. I’m just going to go downstairs with my bags and wait to leave. I’ll just take it from there.
Brendan was pacing on his cell phone by the front door. I assume he is waiting for me. He had a business suit on. Very different from the sports gear he wore for the past two days.
“Alright, I gotta go,” he said to the person on the phone. “Are you ready to go?” he addressed me without looking at me. He grabbed my bag off the floor and walked out the door.
If he thinks he’s going to make me feel horrible, he’s wrong. I’m a cop, I’m use to dickheads. There was silence in the car until he decided to speak. I refused to.
“I talked to Billy. You will be assigned to Candy Cane. She will show you what needs to be done.”
“Okay.”
“I’ll be close by if you need me. Billy put you in the lineup for eight. You have five hours to get ready, mingle, and get info. Do what you need to do. Keep your eyes and ears open. This may only take one week if you can get enough proof and trust me it shouldn’t be a problem. I’ve seen transactions on numerous occasions.”
“I’m on it. I’ll be fine. Don’t worry about me. I’ve been undercover before.” I wanted him to know that I didn’t need him. When we arrived, I stepped out of his Lexus SUV. I was ready to get this over with. I needed a prayer.
Chapter Eight
Brendan
I was infuriated. How could Joella act like she wasn’t attracted to me? She had the nerve to push me away when I kissed her after she opened up to me like that. The kiss was absolutely amazing. I want to do it again, but I refuse to try anything at all, just to get rejected. Then, to top it off she threw my own words against me.
I didn’t even look at her until we exited the car. I stared straight ahead while I was driving. I wasn’t giving her the chance to see my pain. I went around to the passenger side to open her door for her. When she stepped out, she looked perfect. She had on a red tight tee, very low cut denim shorts, and red high heels. My mouth was watering. Her long straight black hair and oversized black sunglasses made her one sexy bitch. These dancers didn’t have anything on her. I was so proud of her for going through with this, despite my feelings at the moment.
“Thanks,” she said, as I opened the door for her. You could cut the tension with a knife.
“We’re here. You know the plan. Be confident, and don’t let them see you sweat.”
“Are we in a locker room?” she said, snatching her bag from my hand.
I thought it was a good pep talk. What do I know?
We walked through the first set of double doors. I think I was more nervous than she was. When we walked through the second set of double doors, I saw Billy sitting at the bar talking to Mikey. He tapped Billy’s arm to let him know we were coming in the door. Billy mouthed the words, “Oh, my fucking Gawd,” to me. I wanted to put my hands around his neck, but I had to contain myself.
We stepped over to the bar. Joella looked like a fucking goddess and Billy couldn’t take his eyes off her boobs. Even Mike was ogling her goods.
“Billy, Mike, this is Tiffany Hanover, the new dancer. Tiffany this is my cousin Billy, he’s the manager and this is Mikey, he’s one of the bartenders.”
She extended her hand. “It’s nice to meet both of you.”
“Billy, is Candy around?” I asked, trying to divert his attention elsewhere.
“Yes. I’ll go get her,” he said smiling at Joella.
I’m seriously going to wipe that smile right off his face. He better watch himself.
“Mikey, bring two Lagers over to my table in the back.”
“Right away, boss.”
“Come on Tiff, let’s go to the table in the back.”
I really wanted to take her into my office and remove her clothing, sit her up on my desk, and please her in every way possible. A guy can dream right?
Mikey brought the beers over, smiled and walked away. These guys were acting like they never saw a woman before.
“I don’t drink on the job,” she said.
“You have to. You can’t be obvious. The other girls drink, too.”
“Oh… should I do drugs too.”
“Smart ass. When Billy comes back with Candy, leave with her after introductions. If you need me for anything, text me the numbers 1-2-3. I’ll find a way to get to you. I don’t usually go in the back where the girls are. Billy usually manages them.”
“I bet.
He looks like a dick.”
“He is. Shh, here he comes.”
Billy strolled over trying to look like a big shot. That annoys me about him. Whenever he is around the women, he tries to act like a tough guy.
“Candy, this is Tiffany. She’s new. I need you to show her all the works. Come up with a name for her.”
“Can’t I use my name from my previous club?” Joella asked.
I rolled my eyes at her.
“Sure you can, baby,” Billy said.
I was clenching my teeth. Joella saw the look on my face. She knew I was pissed.
“Billy, I’m taken. Don’t call me baby, my husband is very protective and wouldn’t appreciate it.”
She was breaking my balls, but Billy looked pissed off because she stood up to him. The other girls let him say and do whatever to them so they could keep their jobs.
Joella walked away with Candy and went into the back. Billy sat down at the table with me.
“Dude, where did you find her? She’s fucking hot.”
“I met her at a gas station. Her pump wasn’t working.”
“Seriously… Did you hit that ass?”
“Is that all you think about? No, I didn’t.”
“Great. I’m gonna take a stab at her.”
“She just told you she was married.”
“Since when do I care about that?”
“Just stay away from her. She’s new.”
“Hmm… It seems like someone else at this table wants to take a stab at her. I can’t promise anything. I’d love to have her hot fucking lips around my dick.”
“Get a hold of your fucking self,” I said slamming my bottle down on the table. I got up from my chair. “I fucking mean it.”
“Chill out. What’s with you?”
“I’m going to my office.”
We had to figure this mess out sooner than later because if we didn’t I was going to end up killing Billy myself. I can just fire him but then it will cause a family war with my mom and aunt, his mother. I needed to think of something real soon. Hopefully he was just dumb enough to fuck up and Joella could catch him.