Waiting for Romeo

by Diane Mannino

  “You don’t sound too convincing and believe me, I get it. You’re a much nicer person than me because there’s no way I’d put up with that…friend in the hospital or not…there’s definitely only one way to take care of that shit.”

  I sigh. “Nip it?”

  “Right in the bud.”

  “I need to trust him, Bryn and I do. It’s not like they’re just shooting the shit…she calls him and gives him updates on how Sebastian is doing. That’s all.”

  “That’s all? You’re sure? I don’t mean to freak you out, Emilia. I just want you to make sure there’s nothing else going on. If I were in your shoes, I’d make him get a new number so she won’t keep calling him. My point is this: she’s bad news. I know Logan has practically moved heaven and earth to get you back and I’m thrilled that things are going so great because I’ve never seen you happier or more confident. But. And this is a big but. You need to be aware…that’s all I’m saying. Does that make sense?”

  I close my eyes and sigh. “Perfect.”

  “I really don’t think Logan will fuck up. I really don’t. You know I’m watching him. I’ve been watching him.”

  I smile at the image this brings to my mind. “I know.”

  “I can’t sit here with what happened before and not let you know it worries me. Well, she worries me. She’s someone who sets her sights on something or someone…and she will do whatever it takes to get it. Pure and simple…she’s evil. She only cares about herself. She has no morals. She doesn’t give a damn that you and Logan are together. You know if she truly thought of him as a friend that she would just want him to be happy, right?”

  “Exactly. I totally agree. That reminds me, did you know Tyler and Chloe are together? Well, almost together, he asked her to go out tomorrow night for Valentine’s so I think it’s inevitable.”

  “And, your point is you’re fine with that because you think of Tyler as a friend. You just want him to be happy. I’m sure he’d love to be with you, but I’m sure he’s happy you’re happy as well.”

  I nod.

  “But that bitchy troll isn’t like you or me or Tyler or most normal people in the world. For her it’s a fucking dog eat dog world…she’ll do anything to get what she fucking wants and she doesn’t give a shit about who or how many people she hurts along the way.” She spits, venomously

  I can’t help but laugh at her expletive-laden tirade. “I get it, Bryn.”

  “I’m serious. If I find out that bitch makes one little inappropriate move on Logan, I will personally hunt her down and fucking cunt punt her.”

  “Cunt punt?” I press my lips together to keep from laughing.

  “Yes. It’s a real thing…I even heard someone once had to have reconstructive vaginal surgery after an incident. Bitch should be so lucky!”

  I start to laugh. “You have a way with words, you know? I think you should forget fashion…writing is your true calling.” I laugh and then continue. “I completely understand…I think maybe I’ll nip it in the bud before you have to do any cunt punting and eww thanks for that disgusting visual right when we just finished stuffing ourselves.”

  “I know, right? But better to have that visual after we ate than while we ate.”

  I’M STILL LAUGHING WHEN I HEAD UP THE STAIRS, making my way to my bedroom. I toss myself on my bed and stare up at the ceiling while I mentally review Bryn’s lengthy diatribe. I sit up, getting more annoyed with Seraphina’s motives. Bryn is right. As much as I would like to be the better person and not give some sort of ultimatum, I just don’t know if it’s worth the risk not to say something.

  For now, I need to push those thoughts out of my head. Perhaps, she’s not even calling him anymore now that Sebastian is somewhat on the mend. Pulling out my laptop to get started on my work, my cell buzzes.

  LOGAN: Hi there, beautiful.

  ME: Hi :) How was the rest of your day?

  LOGAN: Lonely. Yours?

  ME: The same. Everything okay?

  LOGAN: Yes. It’ll be better tomorrow.

  ME: I’m looking forward to it. Whatever it might be…

  LOGAN: I know how you aren’t a fan of surprises, but trust me you’ll love it. We have a couple of options, but I’d like to leave early if that works for you. Can I pick you up at 1?

  ME: 1? I’m having déjà vu. Does it include Montecito, stars, fondue and…

  LOGAN: Hm. Definitely the …

  ME: Is this the part where I should ask you what you’re wearing? ;)

  LOGAN: Haha. You stole my line.

  ME: Well?

  LOGAN: Why don’t you come over and see? ;) I can’t stop thinking about…

  ME: Either can I…so tomorrow?

  LOGAN: Tomorrow…at 1 :)

  ME: I can’t wait. Good night.

  LOGAN: Night, my Valentine.

  I SHIMMY INTO MY MINI DRESS. It’s a deep burgundy shade with a revealing cowl-back that’s sleek and fitted accentuating the few curves I have. Since the almost backless Victoria’s Secret dress has a built in bra it allows me to go braless, leaving my back almost completely bare. After I make a quick call to my dad, wishing him a Happy Valentine’s and my hair and make-up are done; I hear a soft knock on the door.

  “I got it.” I call out to Bryn as I grab my small purse, heading out of my bedroom and into the hall.

  “Whoa, hotstuff! God, you look gorgeous.” Bryn beams at me.

  “Thanks…you think this dress is okay? Do you think he’ll like it?” I ask, tugging on the bottom of the clingy dress as it slides up my thighs, revealing more of my legs.

  Bryn playfully hits my hands. “Stop messing with it. It’s a mini and you have sick legs…show them off. And, yes, Logan will love it. Are you kidding? The only problem is you probably won’t have it on very long…as soon as he sees you in it he’s going to want to peel it right off.”

  I laugh and give her a quick hug. “Thanks. Have fun tonight.”

  When I open the front door the first thing I see is an enormous bouquet of red roses. Then my eyes catch his stare and my heart skips a beat. He is breathtaking. A white button down linen shirt and faded jeans that hang on his hips just so…I take a deep breath. He leans and his lips barely touch mine, my body quivers in response.

  “Happy Valentine’s. You look stunning.” He says as he hands me the bouquet.

  “Thank you. You want something to drink before we go?” I say, filling a large vase with water and putting the roses in it.

  I turn and I find myself inches from Logan, his hands around my waist.

  “I like this dress on you. It’s very flattering. The color suits you, but what I really like is how it shows off every delectable inch of you. I can’t wait to get it off of you.” He nuzzles my neck and breathes in my ear. “Maybe we should skip what I have planned and go right to Montecito.”

  “Okay.” I whisper. Wow. Did I really just say that? Maybe I shouldn’t be so easy.

  “Okay?” I feel his grin against my neck.

  “Hm. You are quite tempting. But I’m curious about what you have planned…you said I’d love it?” I ask.

  Leaning back, he gazes into my eyes. “Yes.” He says, quietly. He takes my hand in his and kisses the top of it. “So, if we’re going to go with the original plan we should get going. Original plan it is?”

  I smile at him. “Yes.”

  Taking my hand in his, we head out the door and to the white Rolls-Royce stretch limousine that’s parked in the front of our house. Stan stands guard and as we approach he opens the passenger door.

  “Nice to see you, Miss King.” Stan says warmly.

  “Nice to see you too, Stan. Please call me Emilia. You have quite the collection of cars. I think this is what the third or fourth one I’ve seen you in and it’s a different one every time.”

  He chuckles and nods towards Logan. “Yes, Emilia. It’s quite the collection.”

  “By the way, I wanted to thank you for your driving skills the other day. I definitely know w
ho to call when I need a quick getaway.” I grin as Logan gently pulls my waist signaling me it’s time to go.

  “My pleasure.” Stan smiles.

  We slide into the leather seat and I’m once again in awe at the monstrosity of a stretch limousine. We sit in the back seat but along the side is another lengthy leather seat that could easily fit a dozen people.

  “How about some champagne?”

  “Sure, but just a little. It’s early and I think I’d better pace myself. I’m guessing we have a long day…and night ahead of us.” I smile, shyly.

  “Yes and a long drive.” Popping open the champagne, he pours it into two crystal flutes and hands me one.

  “To my beautiful Valentine.” He raises his glass.

  “Thank you for this.” I clink my glass with his and we both take a sip. “So, you said we have a long drive?”

  “Right. We’re going to Topanga.” He says, watching my reaction.

  “Topanga? In L.A. or is there a Topanga somewhere else?” I ask, excitedly.

  “In L.A…that’s why the long drive. It’s off Topanga Canyon…have you ever been there?”

  I smile at him. “To Topanga? No. I know where it is…what’s there? It sounds like there might be some cliff diving.” I smile as I take another sip of champagne. It’s so light and bubbly. I have to remind myself to take little sips.

  He laughs. “There might be, but we’re not doing that…maybe another time.” He pauses a minute and wraps his arm around me, nuzzling my neck and breathing in my hair.

  Then he continues talking. “I can’t tell you how good this feels to be here with you after an incredibly shitty week. I was originally going to drive, but then I thought this was a much better idea. Either way I would have enjoyed your company, but this way I get to touch you and if I were driving you it would be impossible for me to not touch you when you’re looking so lovely.”

  “Well, thank you, Mr. Prescott. It is definitely a nicer way to travel and you can drink some champagne…another plus.”

  “There’s only one plus in my book.” He kisses my hand.

  “Is Stan in Santa Barbara permanently now?” I gaze in Stan’s direction, but his eyes are focused on the road ahead.

  “He goes back and forth, although he is in Santa Barbara more now because of the hotel.” He pulls me close as his hand drifts across my bare back, his thumb gently skimming it. “Did I tell you I like this dress?”

  I smile. “Yes. I’m glad you like it.” My head already feels the effects of the champagne or maybe it’s his touch. I feel his lips near my ear and I know I need to get what’s bothering me off my chest, before I completely lose my train of thought, especially since Bryn has made clear the urgency of the matter.

  “You okay?” He whispers and then leans back, glancing at me, warily.

  “Um.” I say, reluctantly as I glance in Stan’s direction.

  “You’d prefer some privacy?” He asks.

  I nod and squirm, slightly in my seat because I’m worried he’ll think I’m being selfish. My subconscious reaffirms me this isn’t about Sebastian and his problems. This is about her.

  “Stan?” He asks and I already regret saying something.

  “I’m just going to put up the partition for a bit. I’m pretty sure I’m in a bit of trouble.” Logan smiles in bemusement at me. “Emilia wants to speak to me in private…she seems pretty pissed.”

  I roll my eyes at his playful teasing. “Stan, don’t listen to him. Logan lies. I’m not pissed about anything.” I look at Logan and shake my head, pressing my lips together to keep from laughing.

  Stan smiles and nods at me from the rearview mirror.

  Logan laughs. “Sorry. I couldn’t resist. I love the way you say liar and lies. You have this faint southern accent that’s just so irresistible.”

  “Southern accent?” I laugh.

  “You are from Virginia, right?” Logan asks, amused.

  “Yes, but I don’t have an accent.”

  “You do when you says Logan lies or Logan’s a liar.”

  “Well, you do lie. I’m not pissed at you.” I say, affirmatively.

  Logan smiles as the partition goes up and we are now privately ensconced in the back of the limo.

  “I can’t help it if your adorable southern drawl is a turn-on. I realized it the other day when you told Chloe I was a liar about the sex wax. You’ve never been told you have a slight accent?”

  I shake my head. “No, but probably because you’re the first person I’ve called a liar.” I arch a brow.

  He grins. “Possibly.” He takes my hands in his, kissing it tenderly. “Now, let’s clear the air so we can enjoy the rest of this afternoon and night. Yes?”

  I nod. Maybe I should have planned this out in my head. How should I say this without sounding like a jealous bitch? How about…could you please tell Seraphina to go fuck herself and stop calling you because I don’t trust her and if she makes one inappropriate move towards you, Bryn will fucking cunt punt her across campus? I think I got all off Bryn’s expletives in there.

  I close my eyes and take a deep breath, preparing myself for his disappointment in me. Opening my eyes, I see his eyes are on mine. I blink and he smiles, his light eyes crinkling at the edges.

  “I think I know what this is about.” He says before I can get the words out…what a chicken shit I am.

  “You do?” I whisper.

  “You don’t want me talking to her. Right?” He says, softly. Staring at me, he leans forward and kisses me on the forehead.

  “I told you before that I understood. That’s what’s bothering you, isn’t it?” His expression turns anxious.

  I nod. “Yes. But honestly, Logan, I trust you. I wouldn’t have…well, I wouldn’t have wanted you to make love to me if I didn’t trust you. You know that, don’t you? It’s just that it’s her.”

  “I understand. It’s done.” He smiles, reassuringly at me.

  “What do you mean…it’s done?” I frown.

  “I told her to stop calling me.” He says in a matter of fact tone like this is old news.

  I look at him, trying to make sense of it. Did he tell her because of our earlier conversation? Did I seem that insecure about it all? I try and remember what was said. But before I can ask another question, he explains.

  “She called me initially to tell me about Sebastian going into the hospital.” He pauses briefly and I nod. “After that she called a couple times with updates on how he was doing and what was going on, but then it was obvious she was just calling to talk. And, that’s when I told her to stop.”

  I let out a breath not realizing I was holding it. Bryn was right. Her words are fresh in my mind: She’s someone who sets her sights on something or someone and will do whatever it takes to get it.

  “Oh.” I swallow. “Well, thanks for that.” I don’t really know what to say. As much as I’m grateful that he told her to stop calling him, I wonder if she will ever leave him alone.

  “Look, I’m not going to let anyone or anything jeopardize us. I told you that and I meant it. I love you, Emilia. I won’t lose you again. She’s a big part of the reason why I lost you in the first place. I tried to be nothing but a friend to her and for a long time I thought it was mutual. I know now what she’s like and I won’t put up with her shit.”

  I smile. “I love you, too.” I whisper as I gaze into his heated eyes.

  Scooping my legs up so they’re on his lap, he leans down slowly and kisses me deeply. His one hand is spread across the middle of my back, while the other cradles my head as I slide beneath him on the cool leather seat. His lips move against mine and then along my neck and jaw.

  One of my hands reaches into his hair, pulling him towards me, while the other slowly slips the buttons out of their buttonholes…one by one. My hand caresses his hard stomach then slides around to his firm back. Slipping his hand under my dress, he strokes my thigh and firmly kneads my bottom. I moan, quietly into his mouth.

  Neither
of us notice when the partition opens up until Stan clears his throat. It takes Logan a quick second to pull my dress down and draw us both upright so we’re both sitting with his hand tightly around my waist.

  We both quietly steady our breathing. “We’re here?” Logan asks while he quickly buttons up his shirt.

  “Yes.” Stan says, glancing in the rearview mirror.

  I lean over and kiss Logan softly on the lips. “Thanks for the lovely ride.” I say, softly.

  “We’ll have another lovely two hour drive back.” He says.

  “Yes and probably nothing left to talk about. What will we do?” I tease.

  Logan’s eyes gleam, knowingly. “I think we’ll figure something out…” His voice trails off as he gently kisses my hand.

  CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

  I HAVE TO PINCH MYSELF TO SEE IF I’M DREAMING. We’re nestled in a canyon, in the middle of the woods, a rustic, but beyond beautiful setting. There are tall trees and vines as far as the eye can see. Surrounded by mountains, the overgrown trees and rocky trails, give the place a magical feel.

  Taking my hand in his, we approach an old wooden bridge and cross a small babbling brook. In the distance, there are two wooden stages, one small and the other in an amphitheatre setting with stadium seating and a lovely tree house-like backdrop. I figure we must be seeing a concert…possibly a private concert since we seem to be the only people here.

  “What a beautiful place.” I say, softly. “It’s so quiet…I think we might have beaten the crowds.”

  “There won’t be any crowds. I rented the place out.” He smiles down at me.

  I smile back at him. “Concert?” I ask as we walk closer to the theatre. The leaves on the ground crunch underneath our feet as we walk.

  “I think you’ll figure it out soon.” He nods in the direction of some of the surrounding trees.

  If the tranquil and charming setting wasn’t enough, adding to the dreamlike feel, there are now women dressed up like fairies and men like woodland nymphs, peeking out behind some of the trees as we near the theatre.