Page 6 of Painting Her Fate

“Fine, more for me. How ‘bout another round, mates? But only four now, because Dex is being a pussy.” Everyone but Dex laughs at the joke then pushes their glasses in a line for one more.

“Oh, ha-ha, so fucking funny,” Dex murmurs, “you all can piss off,” then rolls his eyes, his statement holding no true hostility. I pour another round and set the bottle back. That is enough for this lot, on my watch, anyway. I was finished an hour ago.

“So, tell me about this good news” I have a good guess as to what it is, I’d rather hear it come from them, though.

I watch the light brighten in all their eyes at the question however none of them voiced their true reasoning behind their euphoria.

Zane put an arm around my waist and leaned in close, “you’re about

to get off work. Let’s head back to your place, celebrate a bit, then I will tell you.” His eyes hold a devilish glint and I know what type of celebrating he’s thinking. I am on board for playing a bit tonight, and not with instruments. I haveothermeans of pleasure.

“Sure, I just have to grab my bag and let Patrick know I’m off.” I wipe down a spot on the bar top then set the towel aside. “Do you want another pint before we go?”

He shakes his head, his answer evident. That is good enough for me. I go through the kitchen to the office where I pop my head inside to tell the manager that I’m heading out.

“See you tomorrow, Patrick. Save me some of that amazing Shepherd’s pie of yours, please.” I love this man’s cooking.

*Scottish* “Ah, lass, you know I will. I always do.” The man in his trademark beanie to hide his bright red hair leaned back in his chair and smirked, “Have fun. Don’t do anythin’ I would do.”

“Too late!” I sing-song happily and hear his chuckle as I grab my canvas bag from the hook and head back to the bar.

Patrick Shaw moved from Livingston, Scotland to the London area with his parents at the age of nine, instantly connecting about things an only child would understand. We grew up best of mates, always together in Gran’s music room after school, playing instruments, listening to all types of music, and that one-time Gran stepped out for a meeting, leaving Patrick and I to ourselves. Little did she know that day led to us having our first kiss together in one of her practice rooms.

Shhh, Gran has no idea, and I’d much like to keep it that way, thank you.

To be honest, it felt like kissing my brother, if I had a brother. I know, cliché. Patrick agreed, so we promised to always be there for each other, no

matter what. He’s the brother I never had. He has my back and keeps my darkest secrets hidden- yes, Patrick knows everything- minus a few details, for my peace-of-mind. He also knows how to pick on me, push my buttons, and how to get a rise out of me. Just how a brother and sister would razz each other. I wouldn’t want it any other way.

I met Zane, we gave goodbyes to the band, then made our way out the door to the early Friday morning fresh air. Any other night in the car, I would be on him; tugging at his clothing, groping his thick length over his trousers, and dropping tasteful hints on what to expect.

Tonight, there is a means to an end. Nothing but negativity lay on the

horizon for him and it’s best to end things now, so he isn’t caught in the middle of the rumors- or the truths- depending on where the information comes from.

Eventually they are bound to be found. I’ll never be ready when that day arrives.

I do not want to be the person who destroys Zane’s credibility before it even has a chance to develop. My past would be the thing to do just that.

We arrive at my building, a newer establishment located on the Thames in Putney. I couldn’t have asked for a better location as it’s across the way from the tube, has great views, and the proximity to the art and music district is unbeatable.

Zane and I take the lift to my flat and I can sense the high of his energy buzzing around me. His lust permeates the cube- his advances are growing-

I’ll make him squirm just a bit more.

This snubbing side of me tonight has been witnessed before; it’s part of a game we play. I am the one in control tonight; he is at my mercy- and he loves it- most men love having a women take the reins and dominate. Zane likes a woman who can control the moment and give him the pleasure he desires.

One final night.

The second the lift doors open we rush down the corridor and head

inside my safe space. I make quick work of unlocking the door and fling it open, ready to get a little dirty and just a touch aggressive.

“You know the drill, love. Strip, then stand ready for me. No funny business tonight.” I send him a wink over my shoulder making sure he is aware this is all meant to be playful.

“Yes madam.” He agrees, acting like a junkie seeking his next fix.

I’m momentarily startled when I find my roommate Tamara toeing off her shoes after her night out. I’m bummed to see she doesn’t have someone with her tonight. She’s been on the pull for months without any luck and it’s beginning to weigh her down. Might be time for a holiday, heaven knows we could use it.

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