Isaac’s movements are gentle, as if he’s handling something fragile. His eyes never leave mine as we connect in a way I never thought possible. With each thrust, he takes his time, savoring the feeling of being together. My sounds of pleasure fill the air as he claims me, leaving no part of me untouched. He moves within me like he’s trying to memorize every curve and crevice. Nothing can compare to this moment; words cannot fully express the overwhelming emotions coursing through my body as we both shatter for one another.
We’re both breathless and covered in sweat, the car windows fogged up from our passionate encounter. The only sound is our heavy breathing, but it’s not awkward; it’s peaceful and fulfilled. Tears blur my vision, the sting in my eyes gathers in my chest, and I blink back the tears threatening to spill—too scared to ruin the moment.
I stare up at him, his honey-hazel eyes now soft in the afterglow. He tucks a loose strand of my hair behind my ear, and a tender smile tugs at the corner of his beautiful face. “I’m going to miss you, but I’m proud of you.”
His words hit me like a ton of bricks. His meaning is clear, and instantly, I wish to lose myself again. To drown in a sea of raw passion and forget the inevitable that is waiting for us beyond this car.
“Iz… this was a one-time thing,” I whisper, feeling the walls build back up. His body tenses, but he doesn’t fight it, nor do I. He just holds me as I sob into his arms, crying for the future we never got a chance to have. For a love that never got a chance to live, but pollutes us either way.
Chapter Five
Veronica
Months later…..
Halloween Night
I look in the mirror as I add the finishing touches to what I call “Tinkerslut.” Gold shimmer on my collarbone, cheeks, and arms, some golden flecks of hair glitter,and bam—Tinkerslut has been born. I look hot. A smile spreads across my face as I check myself out. College has definitely made me feel better in my ownskin. It’s like I’m a new Veronica, and I’m here for it. I don’t live in the dorms. Thanks to my dad—well, Isaac’s dad—I can afford a small studio apartment right across from campus.
Halloween music plays on the radio, helping to get in the mood for tonight. I hear a message alert from my phone. Looking at the screen, there are three notifications. A message each from Alexa, Max, and Rayna. I open Rayna’s message first. My friend at Florence State, whom I met in my photography class, and is everything I could ask for in a friend.
Rayna:
Tinkerslut! The party moved to the old Finster mansion, off campus. You in?
My fingers work the keyboard as I reply, my hips swaying to “Thriller” by Michael Jackson. Was I in? Hell, the fuck yes I’m in.
Me:
I’m so down! Can’t wait!
Max is the second message in line, and disappointment sinks my heart to the bottom of my stomach. Max is truly perfect. The only negative, and even calling it a negative makes me feel so shitty, is that Max is a workaholic. Top of his class, so dedicated, but sometimes that dedication overrides everything, even our plans for tonight.
Max:
It’s gonna be a late night, Babe. I’ll catch you before it’s over. Your place? Look out for a Scream mask.
I bite the urge to dismiss him. I couldn’t just ignore him. After all, he’s working hard to accomplish his dream of becoming a prosecutor. He’s so passionate about it, with so much drive. It’s really admirable. So, I simply reply:
Me:
See you later! Alexa is going to be here, so I guess it will just be the two for a bit, so it works.
He doesn’t reply, and I don’t expect him to. Not during late nights, especially nights he’s at the prosecutor’s office working on a case, shadowing and learning from his mentor. I’ll be lucky if he actually shows up tonight, but I shake that feeling of disappointment away. Alexa will be here, and I miss her.
The next message is Alexa’s.
Lex:
On my way! I miss you and can’t wait to see you. Also, I have a surprise for you!
I smile as my fingers type away, replying to my best friend:
Me:
So excited! Can’t wait to introduce you to Rayna and party with you. It’s been a while.
I don’t wait for her to reply before placing my phone down and walking over to my kitchen, eating the leftover Chinese food from earlier, and vibing to “Rhiannon” by Fleetwood Mac. This song reminds me of my mother, and I close my eyes as I take a bite of an oily egg roll, rolling my head to the music.
