Episode 12

...Anne Louize...

In the back seat of the car, still wondering what I was doing here, it was the weekend and I usually don’t go out partying, a terrible idea I suppose.

Throughout the drive, I could feel Jacob’s gaze on me through the rearview mirror. I would stare back at him, but when he caught me peeking, I would quickly look away, pretending to be oblivious.

After fifteen minutes, we stopped in a parking lot next to the club, and we had an easy time getting in; from what I understood, the club owner was Jacob’s best friend, who made a call, and the bouncers let us in immediately—a perk of having good friends.

We headed straight for the VIP area. I won’t lie; it was a good idea to come. Having fun once in a while is nice. The place was packed, gorgeous men everywhere. We blended into the crowd and danced like there was no tomorrow. Occasionally, I caught Jacob staring at me.

Feeling worn out and sweaty, I stepped away from the crowd and made my way to the bar, seeking a quieter spot. I ordered a shot and downed it in one go; it helped to lift my spirits a little, so I ordered another from the bartender.

A guy called out from a distance.

...- Take it easy there, princess; at this rate, you’ll be drunk in no time.

I almost laughed at his comment.

Louize_ Thanks, but I’ve drunk before and I know what I’m doing.

...- Wow, such delicacy! But I’ll ignore that. Want some company, beautiful?

Louize_ No, thanks. I just want to enjoy the music and I already have my company here. - I shook my glass in his direction to signal that I wanted him to leave.

...- Wow, I love women with a strong attitude.

He said this as he moved closer.

...- I’m Devon, what’s your name, gorgeous?

I wasn’t in the mood to meet anyone, especially not this cocky guy.

Louize_ Dude, sorry, I’m not trying to be rude, but I’m not interested in your company. This place is full of beautiful women; go charm them instead. I’m sure you’ll do well.

I wasn’t lying; he was actually attractive, but it just didn’t click.

Devon_ I don’t want anyone else; the one who caught my eye is right here in front of me. Come on, don’t play hard to get; I know your type, young lady.

He insisted, flashing a cocky grin while grabbing me tightly, kissing my neck and then trying to kiss my lips. Instinctively, I turned my face to avoid the kiss, and without thinking, I landed a hit right in between his legs. The bastard doubled over in pain on the floor. I bolted, running like crazy, and without realizing it, I crashed right into Jacob’s strong arms.

Jacob_ Whoa, calm down! Are you running from someone? - He steadied me, brushing my hair away from my face.

I was a total mess, sweaty and disheveled.

Without giving me a chance to respond, Devon appeared in front of me, making me jump and scream.

Devon_ You little brat! You hit me hard; it still hurts. I’m going to teach you how to respect a man. - He said, approaching me, clearly furious.

At that moment, Jacob stepped in front of me protectively.

Jacob_ If I were you, I wouldn’t do that. Watch what you say, or I’ll have to teach you how to treat women properly.

Devon_ Oh, looks like the little brat found herself a protector. Well, you better not get involved, kid.

Without giving him a chance to respond, Jacob punched him in the nose, sending Devon flying backward and crashing into the people nearby.

Curious onlookers were now fixated on us as Devon regained his footing and charged at Jacob like a bull. Jacob, unyielding, landed another precise blow, immobilizing him with an arm lock. At that moment, a crowd surrounded us, and bouncers pushed through, taking the aggressor and tossing him out of the club. I had never been so grateful to escape from a full-blown fight.

Jacob rushed over to me.

Jacob_ Hey, are you okay? Did he hurt you? It’s over now. - He said as he wrapped his arms around me.

Louize_ I’m fine, thanks for standing up for me. Some men just can’t take no for an answer.

Amidst all the chaos, we ended up losing track of Jessy. The music started playing at full blast again, and soon we had forgotten all about the turmoil we had just experienced. Even after everything, the night was still far from over.