She sends me a message saying she's already waiting for me. I stop at the designated spot and complain that I can't find her. Her hands touch my waist, showing that I belong to her, and it makes me jump with fright.
I couldn't even recognize her with so many layers of fabric covering her face and body. A turtleneck, hat, windbreaker, and scarf.
"Are you colder than I am?" She shakes her head as she laughs at the scene of me jumping.
"I told you I'd be unrecognizable."
"You look just like those teenagers in movies from the 2000s on prom night."
"I appreciate the compliment, even if it is mocking," she says as she reaches out her hand to hail a taxi.
#16
“Like a barge at sea In the storm, I stay clear 'Cause I've got my mind on you. I've got my mind on you" - Lana del Rey
I’m in the back of the taxi, watching her fingers trace patterns over my gloved hand. I ended up here, seduced by a pair of green eyes that hold my gaze and smile. The shape of her eyes gives her away every time.
I hear her whisper that we’re close, and a wave of goosebumps washes over me. She pulls me against her waist, hands the driver a hundred-dollar bill, and tells him to keep the change.
I look ahead and see a garden. Kelsey lowers her mask and pulls out her phone to type a code. I feel her hand slide into mine as she brushes a kiss against my cheek.
“If you hate the food, we can always order a pizza,” Kelsey said with a delightful laugh. I turn quickly to press my lips against hers. It’s a fleeting, sideways kiss because the gate clicks open.
“Pietro!” Kelsey beamed as she hugged the man waiting for us.
He has all the features of an Italian, including his gestures as he greets me.
“Wow, she is gorgeous!” Pietro exclaimed to Kelsey once we were in the garden. It’s a private oasis with a table for two and a portable heater.
“Kelsey usually only brings Vanessa or work people here. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Megan,” Pietro said warmly.
Before I know it, I’m seated and being served a glass of deep red wine.
“So, tell me, are you a vegetarian?” the chef asked as he looked at me expectantly.
“No! I’m just allergic to nuts,” I answered with a smile. He clapped his hands in approval before Kelsey murmured something to him in Italian.
“Your friend is lively,” I remarked.
“Very. This is just his backyard; his actual restaurant is in Soho,” Kelsey replied.
I raised an eyebrow as I tasted the wine. I felt a sudden, visceral urge to moan.
“And what are your plans now that you’re heading to D.C.?” Kelsey asked curiously.
“A friend booked a hotel until I can find a permanent place,” I explained. “I’ve already shortlisted a few apartments. I need to move fast. The gala tonight was a way to begin negotiating my seat on the Supreme Court.”
Her hand moved steadily, a rhythmic caress up and down my thigh. Her eyes never left mine.
“Everything will work out. You have plenty of people ready to vote for you,” Kelsey assured me.
“And the ones who aren't... I’ll buy,” I said with a shrug. She offered a knowing smile, fully understanding the stakes.
“And the ones who can't be bought? Those are the ones who simply won't be considered,” I added firmly.
“You’re good at political theater,” she noted as she cupped my face. “I have to head to New Delhi this week. Just a few things to settle.”
“'A few things' sounds awfully mysterious,” I teased over the rim of my glass.
