Page 105 of Consumed By You

Looking very much like the heartthrob people know him as, Benjamin’s wearing a brown leather jacket, black shirt, and black jeans. His hair is wind-blown and dusted with snow due to the intense winter weather, andhe’s staring at me.

“Look who’s here!” Marilyn grins, in obvious heaven that she’s standing inches away from a Greek god. He instantly holds the attention of everyone in the room, even Luke. Benjamin has that way about him. He radiates power and celebrity.

“W-What are you doing here?” I whisper, glancing at Luke. God, this could be a disaster.

“I came to wish you happy birthday. I didn’t know there was a party going on. I’m sorry,” he replies politely.

How did he know it’s my birthday? I don’t think I’ve ever told him…and how does he know where I live?

“Oh…thank you.”

He moves from Marilyn’s side and approaches me with a small rectangular box in silver paper. “Happy birthday.”

I hesitantly take it from his hands. “Thank you.”

“Of course.” He nods somewhat oddly. “Well, I’ll be going now.”

“No, stay. We have plenty of food if you like greasy Chinese,” Marilyn coos, batting her eyelashes.

Oh girl, you are one flirtatious drunk.

Benjamin looks back to me, obviously inferring if it’s all right. I glance at Luke, knowing I should tell him to leave.

If only I had the willpower to kick him out…

“Yeah, um, stay.” I clutch the present to my chest.

“You’re sure I’m not intruding?”

“Of course not. There’s a seat here.” Kevin pats the chair beside him. As soon as Benjamin moves, I shut my eyes in agony.

This can only end badly.

I force my legs to move and follow Doris to the table. I set Benjamin’s gift on my counter by the rest of them and take a seat next to Luke. He looks at me curiously and I smile, hoping to reassure him I’m okay.

“So who is everyone?” Benjamin asks.

While dishing out the food, Kevin goes around the table in order.

By the time he gets to Luke, I’m fidgeting in my seat. Kevin takes pity on me and doesn’t mention anything other than his name.

Dear God, help me get through this dinner in one piece.

***

“Anyone want refills?”

The meal has been pleasant so far and surprisingly, Benjamin and Luke are getting along well with everyone in the room. Never would I think Ben could get along with Kevin, but they both are laughing over some movie they saw recently.

“No! You’re the birthday girl! Sit your ass down!” Marilyn shouts, pointing to my seat.

“The wine is getting to me. I need to move around.”

“Humph. Well I’ll have another moscato if you’re going back there.” She hands me her glass. Danielle does as well, and her boyfriend asks for another beer.

I barely look up as I ask Benjamin if he’d like anything.

“No, I’m fine. Thanks, Darce.”