Say Something...

by T. A. Roth

  Maria sidles up to her father, handing him a drink. She looks at me with a wicked grin. My fists begin to ball up at my sides. She’s caught me off guard, and she’s relishing in that thought.

  “Thank you, sweetheart. Gentlemen, this is my daughter, Maria. Maria, this is James Benton and Phillip Warner.” She smiles politely.

  “Nice to meet you. This is a lovely party.” She’s all smiles and sweetness.

  “Maria was nice enough to accompany me tonight. My wife had a charity event to attend,” her father informs us.

  “Glad you could make it. This is our assistant Ari and her boy-”

  “Oh, we’ve met,” she interrupts. Mr. Warner’s eyes widen. I dig my nails into my palm. Where is she going with this?

  “Ben and I used to date. That’s until Ari decided to move in on him. Glad to see everything is still working out between you two,” she says sarcastically while raising her glass in a mock toast. Red-hot anger runs through me. Fear of losing my job is the only thing keeping me from throttling her. Her gray eyes are gleaming in victory over the rim of her glass as she takes another sip of her drink. I square my shoulders and put on a shaky smile.

  “Please excuse me, gentlemen. Mr. Santos, it was very nice to meet you.” I turn on my heel and get as far away as I can.

  BEN

  What in the hell just happened? It was like watching a car accident in slow motion. One minute, I’m being introduced to Mr. Santos, the next minute, Maria is spewing her lies. It takes a few seconds for the situation to register. Ari was the bigger person and walked away, thankfully. Now all eyes are on me. I consider my options but realize quickly that I have none. How do I respond without looking like a complete douche in front of these people? Ari’s bosses, no less. Maria royally screwed us both. She narrows her eyes at me daring me to respond. I could only hope that Ari has a good relationship with these men.

  “If you’ll excuse me, gentlemen, I’m going to check on my girlfriend.” I decide to politely excuse myself. I cut a glance at Maria, and she’s smiling at me wickedly. “It was a pleasure meeting you all.” I turn quickly and head into the direction I saw Ari run off to.

  A few minutes pass as I look for her in the ballroom. She’s nowhere to be found. I make my way into the lobby and see her pacing in front of a small corridor. She’s opening and closing her fists, and she looks about ready to explode.

  “Ari.” She looks up at me startled.

  “What the fuck was that, Ben? How in the hell did she know we would be here?” She has an accusatory tone.

  “Do you think I told her? Babe, I was just as shocked as you were. I have no idea how she knew.” She takes a deep breath and releases it, trying to calm herself. I step forward and wrap my arms around her.

  “I’m sorry.” She won’t look at me and her lower lip starts to tremble.

  “She embarrassed me in front of my bosses. How am I supposed to face them? They probably think I’m some tramp who goes around stealing other girls’ boyfriends.” She pulls away, swatting at the stray tears and begins to pace again. “What am I supposed to do? I don’t even want to go back in there. But I can’t leave. I’m so fucked.” I let her ramble.

  I have nothing to say to make this situation better. I feel like a total ass for bringing this into her life. She throws her head back in frustration staring at the detailed ceiling of the hotel. “It really is beautiful in here,” she mutters between sniffs. I pull her into my chest.

  “I’m sorry, baby. I wish I could make this better. I wish I could tell that crazy bitch to leave.”

  She wraps her arms around me and buries her face into my neck. “I know.” She sighs. I bring her face up to mine and press a kiss to her lips.

  I wipe the stray tears from her eyes and kiss her cheek. “You still look gorgeous.”

  She lets out a strangled laugh. “I’m going to freshen up then I’m heading back inside.”

  “Okay. I’ll wait for you.” She walks into the ladies’ room, and I take a moment to take in the grandeur of the lobby. The party is at the historic Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. All of the original architecture is intact with just a few renovations. It has a 1920’s vibe. It really is beautiful. I’m staring at the large chandelier when the clicking of her heels approach.

  “All right, time to face the music.”

  We walk inside, and Laura, the event planner, is heading straight for us. “Shit,” Ari mutters under her breath.

  “There you are. Mr. Benton was looking for you. Is everything okay?” she asks arching her brow.

  “I’m fine. Where is he?”

  “I saw him at the bar near the main entrance.”

  “Thank you, Laura. I’ll go find him.”

  We take a few steps, and I grab her wrist to stop her. “Do you want me to go with you?” I ask.

  “I should probably go alone. If he’s gonna chew me out, I’d rather you not be there to witness it.” I want to assure her that, that’s not going to happen, but I don’t really know. I give her a sad smile.

  “Okay. I’ll be right here when you’re done.”

  She leans in and kisses my cheek. “Okay.”

  MARIA

  The look on her face was priceless, and it was worth every disapproving word coming out of my father’s mouth right now. His grip on my elbow tightens as he escorts me out of the building. He spins me around to face him as we reach the valet.

  “Are you listening to me, young lady?” he grits out under his breath. My little stunt inside has already caused a scene, and he’s trying to avoid any more embarrassment. I nod pursing my lips to avoid the grin desperately working its way to my mouth. A maniacal laugh tickles the back of my throat.

  I used Dad’s computer to do a background check on the bitch. Imagine my surprise when I found out Daddy did business with the firm she works for. When I saw the invitation to the anniversary party on his desk that day, I jumped at the chance to attend with him. It was fate that my mom was already attending another event tonight.

  My father’s narrowed brow and heated face tell me that I should be showing some remorse. I’m not sorry. I found an opportunity, and I took it. Am I sorry that I might have jeopardized my father’s business? A little. But he’s a charming man; he’ll bounce back.

  The valet pulls up with the car, and I slide in taking one last look at the hotel. Is he comforting her? Kissing her tears away? Did I push them apart or just closer together? My stomach knots. Fuck.

  Dad’s voice is becoming white noise now. I think I’ve muttered enough okay and I’m sorry to pacify him. I’m exhausted, the jealousy and rage I feel is starting to take its toll. Finding ways to ruin them has become my full-time job. But I won’t stop until I succeed.

  ARI

  I leave Ben at one of the bars and walk to the other side of the ballroom in search of Mr. Benton. Colleagues and friends of the firm stop me a few times on the way over. When I finally reach him, he is talking to a small group of people. He sees me approach and quickly excuses himself. I start to wring my hands nervously.

  “Mr. Benton I-”

  “Call me James, please,” he interrupts.

  I nod. “Okay.”

  “Listen, Ari. I don’t know what that was about back there, but it clearly made you uncomfortable.”

  “I’m so sorry, sir. I mean James. It’s not what you think.” He puts a hand up to stop me.

  “Ari, you have been a part of our team for almost three years. You have an excellent work ethic and our clients and colleagues love you. I don’t really care what that was about. She obviously had no regard for her father’s business relationships when she brought up her personal life like that in front of strangers. He was very angry that she upset you. They left a few minutes ago.” My eyes widen in surprise. “Now, that’s enough talk. You have done a beautiful job organizing this party tonight. I want you to go have a drink and enjoy yourself.” I smile.

  “Thank you, sir.” He raises his eyebrow at me and my face heats up.
“I mean James.”

  “See, that’s better. Now go have fun.” He lifts his glass to me in a toast and goes back to the waiting crowd.

  I’m practically floating back to where I left Ben. That could have gone so much worse. I’m still embarrassed that the crazy bitch put my private life out there, and I can’t begin to wrap my brain around the whole thing. The coincidence that her dad works with my firm is crazy. He is the best in digging up dirt on people. I can’t help but think that the apple didn’t fall far from the tree.

  I reach the bar and Ben is engaging a man in conversation. I place my hand on his shoulder, and he turns to me. He seems to notice my lighter mood and reflects my smile. “All good?”

  “Perfect,” I answer. I don’t elaborate being in the presence of mixed company.

  “Max, this is my girlfriend, Ari.” I put my hand out for what seems like the hundredth time tonight.

  “Nice to meet you, Max.”

  “Max is a college friend of Mr. Warner.” I nod and smile. Ben orders me a glass of wine and Max excuses himself to mingle with the rest of the partygoers. I’m grateful. I’m done making small talk tonight.

  Ben hands me my glass, and I take a long swig letting the crisp taste calm me. I feel the warmth in my belly and all the tension slowly dissipates. I can finally relax.

  “So, what happened?” Ben asks patiently.

  “Well, he didn’t like what happen, but he wasn’t mad at me. I guess Maria pissed off her dad and they left. He said he didn’t want to discuss it any further and told me to have a good time. So cheers.” I lean my glass toward his and give it a clink.

  We stay a few more hours. The rest of the night goes smoothly. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. The cocktails are flowing and people are letting loose on the dance floor. We danced for a while and are now sitting at a table people watching. I let out a long yawn. The busy week has finally caught up with me.

  “You about ready to leave?” Ben asks. I nod my head while covering my mouth over another yawn. “Yeah, let me just say goodbye.”

  Mr. and Mrs. Benton are tearing up the dance floor. I look around and Mr. Warner is at the bar near the exit. I decide he’s the safer choice. I don’t need to be wrangled into dancing for another hour. I grab my clutch off the table and lead us toward the exit.

  “Mr. Warner, I’m going to call it a night. Thank you for everything. I will see you Monday.” He takes my hand into his and smiles. “Thank you very much for your help, Ari. Everything turned out amazing. Enjoy the rest of your night.” He releases my hand and turns toward Ben.

  “Ben, nice meeting you. Get her home safe. See you Monday, Ari.” Ben gives him a firm shake and we walk out.

  “Oh, my God, I think I could sleep for a week.”

  “Okay, Sleeping Beauty, I have plans for you tonight, remember?” He leans in and kisses that spot behind my ear making me quickly forget how tired I am.

  “It’s been way too long, Ari. I really need you out of this dress.” He brings my earlobe between his lips and gently tugs. His hand slides down my backside and squeezes. The soft moan he releases makes my stomach clench in anticipation. We should have gotten a damn room.

  BEN

  The valet is backed up and getting our cars seems to take forever. She’s wrapped in my arms and shifting restlessly in her heels. I chuckle to myself and lean into her.

  “What’s the matter, baby?” She turns to face me, eyes glazed over in lust. She presses her forehead into mine and closes her eyes.

  “I really regret bringing separate cars.” The brush of her warm breath across my lips makes me want to take her right here. She’s right; there is no way I have the patience to drive to her house.

  I give her a quick kiss and pull away. “I’ll be right back.”

  I walk up to the front desk like a man possessed and ask for the first available room. The woman quickly types into her computer. She informs me that all of the regular rooms are booked and that the only rooms available are suites. It’s going to cost me a small fortune, but I don’t even think twice and hand the woman my credit card. A few swipes and keystrokes later, and I’m walking back to the valet with two room keys.

  I step out of the sliding doors and notice Ari still waiting in line. She is so beautiful. I walk up behind her, and she startles. I lace our hands, and she gives me her warm smile when she realizes it’s me.

  “Let’s go.” She gives me a puzzled look.

  “Where?” she asks. I hold up the room keys, and she laughs.

  “Are you serious? But I didn’t bring anything?” I take two steps forward and bring my lips to her ear.

  “You won’t need anything for the rest of the night. Let’s go.” She doesn’t answer, but the hitch in her breath is answer enough.

  I take a minute to inform the valet station that we will be staying the night. As soon as that is taken care of, I head straight to the elevator. The electricity between us is palpable. I silently thank God when the elevator car reaches our floor uninterrupted.

  I take a quick right and lead us down the hall. My hand trembles with anticipation as I slide the key card into the slot. I walk into our corner suite and the L.A. skyline lights up the dark room. The door clicks behind me and the warmth of Ari’s body surrounds me as she approaches.

  “It’s beautiful,” she whispers against my neck. I turn to look at her, and she wraps her fingers around my tie, pulling me into her. Her free hand wraps behind my neck and she crashes her mouth onto mine. Our kiss turns from hungry to frantic. We’re just a mess of hands, and lips, and moans and we can’t pull away from each other long enough to get undressed. I finally pull away, and we’re both panting. I put my hands on her waist and steady us both.

  “I need you naked . . . Now.” She nods in agreement. I pull at my tie and whip it over my head. I’m working on the buttons of my shirt as the sight of her slowly sliding her dress over her head stops me in my tracks. “Holy shit . . .”

  Her dress is up around her waist exposing black lace garters and a small scrap of lace covering her pussy. My cock stands at attention, and I take two steps toward her. She grins and takes a step back.

  “You like?” She continues to torture me by sliding the dress slowly over her head. A low growl forms in the back of my throat when I see her perfect tits. No fucking bra. Her nipples begin to harden under my gaze, and my hands twitch at the sight.

  I close the distance between us and lick her nipple. I cup my hands around her bare ass and press into her. “I . . . fucking . . . love,” I growl into her neck as I begin to kiss and suck.

  Her soft moan makes me realize that I still have on too many clothes. Her hands are working the buttons on my shirt as I work on my belt buckle. She gets impatient and begins to tug the shirt over my head. I put my hands up and she tosses it over her head. She slides her hands over my chest.

  “I’ve wanted to do that all night,” she says hungrily.

  “Yeah?” I ask.

  “You looked so fucking hot walking into that ballroom tonight. You had every woman and maybe even some of the men’s attention when you walked in.” I chuckle. She looks like a fifties’ pinup standing in front of me. The sight of her curves covered in these small scraps of lace will forever be etched in my mind. I step out of the last of my clothes and press back into her.

  “Do you know how crazy I feel right now, knowing that you had almost nothing on under that fucking dress.” Her soft giggle turns into a moan as I slide two fingers into her wet folds.

  ARI

  MY EYES ROLL BACK AS he works his fingers in and out of me. I slide my hand between us and cup my hand over his hardness.

  “Bed,” he groans. He leads me backward through the large living room. I stop when the back of my legs meet the bed. The windows continue into the bedroom, and the city lights cast shadows across his face and body. I take in his appreciative gaze, and I feel bold.

  “You going to stare at me all night or are we gonna get to the good stuff?”
<
br />   I unfasten my garters, make a show of sliding my stockings off, and toss them at him. His eyes narrow, and that sexy grin reappears. I sit on the edge of the bed. He slowly approaches, spreading my legs apart. He stands between my thighs and presses a hand to my chest.

  “Lie back.” He groans.

  He picks up my left leg and puts it on his shoulder placing a small kiss on the inside of my thigh. The feeling of his hot breath against my skin sends a bolt of electricity between my legs. I’m hot and needy, and he’s dragging this out in the most delicious way.

  His mouth slides closer to my needy core, and he places another kiss, this time using his tongue. He keeps it against my thigh and licks his way up slowly.

  “Please . . . please . . .” I feel him smile against my skin.

  He loves to hear me beg. I grab a fistful of his hair and lift my hips from the bed. He places both hands under my ass and lifts my hips toward his face. He laps at my needy core through my panties. “Fuck,” I moan. He licks again slowly.

  “Is that what you needed, baby? Is this what you’re begging for?” He laps over and over with his perfect tongue. I’m desperate. I slide my hand and move the small barrier keeping him away from my throbbing nub. He lets out a throaty growl and the vibration of his mouth against me almost sends me over the edge.

  “Not yet . . . not fucking yet.” He slides two fingers into me and I nearly lose it.

  “Ben . . . I . . . Oh . . . God . . . I . . .” He presses his tongue against my clit, and I fall over the edge. He pulls his fingers out and the feeling of emptiness only lasts a few seconds as he slowly guides himself into me. Both of my legs are now around his neck as he works himself in and out of me. My release seems to go on forever.

  I feel myself clench around him, and he picks up his rhythm. “Fuck . . . baby . . . I’m so close . . . It’s so fucking good, Ari.” He’s grinding into me and each thrust is building me back up. I begin to move my hips meeting him thrust for thrust. We’re frantic. He finds his release before me and the feeling of him pulsing inside of me sends me back over the edge. We’re a choir of “Oh fucks” and greedy moans. He cups my face and kisses me possessively.