“My name is Tamara, by the way. Nice to meet you,” she reaches out her hand towards mine.
“Ashford.”
“So, are you staying with us?”
There she is. It’s Jemma. I can’t believe it, she’s climbing onto the podium just in front of thedj’sbooth, joining a group of girls who are just as uninhibited.
What a poser!
Tamara pats my shoulder. “Are you staying with us?”
I look at Jemma with a mix of resentment and a desire for revenge in my head. “Why not?” I answer, keeping my eyes on thedj’sbooth.
61
Jemma’s Version
I can see a lot better from up here. As soon as we got in the club, I went directly to the dance floor. Ashford didn’t follow me and I lost him. I spotted him at the bar, but as I was about to join him, he got up and left. It took me quite a while to find him in the queue for the toilets. Then he plunged through the crowd and I lost him again.
Not bad for the Duke of Burlingham: I had no idea he would be so at ease in a club.
I got on the podium right in front of thedj’sbooth, I’m sure I’ll see him from up here. I wonder if he’s with… there he is, I see him! He’s sitting at one of the velvet banquettes with a blonde in a skimpy dress!
Another one! How cheeky!
Yes, because at the bar earlier, he was with a short brunette who was hanging onto his every word.
Then, in the queue for the toilet, he was standing in a corner with a girl with a very low neckline, too low to be his type.
He’s shameless! Wasn’t he the one who was reluctant to accept the challenge? He probably believes he’s the only one with enough sex appeal to attract the opposite sex like a magnet. Who do you think you are, Casanova?
At this point, I just find it natural to start shaking up and down like a professional go-go dancer. I even untie my hair and let my curls wave down my back like a flag.
62
Ashford’s Version
Look at her! I mean, just look. She’s moving on that podium like a Crazy Horse dancer!
I know that mentioning the Crazy Horse is very Harring, but you get the idea.
Her hair is loose, swaying on her bare shoulders with her every movement. Not to mention the lace hem of her dress, which rises and falls on her thighs in a nerve racking way.
Tamara is next to me and keeps pouring herself drinks and talking, but I don’t hear a word she says.
She saw me. I know Jemma saw me. Her eyes met mine for a split second, even if she pretends it never happened.
63
Jemma’s Version
That dull blonde is all over him!
And he says that I talk a lot? Since I’ve seen them, she hasn’t shut up for a second. She probably told him the whole bloody story of her life. And he’s listening to her! I can’t believe he finds her interesting.
64
Ashford’s Version
