Page 36 of Consumed By You

“Don’t run, Benjamin.” I drop my hand, encircling my arms around his waist.

“Darcy, I honestly don’t know if I can do this.” He pulls me back by my shoulders and I sense him closing down as he usually does. I look up into his eyes, finding them wary and distant.

Oh no.Not that look.

“Ben, please don’t push me away.”

Yet he does exactly that, and suddenly, I’m totally alone in a garden.

CHAPTER SEVEN

I’m sipping my fourth cocktail when a strong hand grips my waist. I turn, expecting a completely different person than the one in front of me. Alex’s crystal blue eyes are regarding me with amusement.

“Damn, you’re having your own party over here.” He glances down at the collection of empty martini glasses next to me.

“That I am. Trying to forget about the annoying people in my life!” I exclaim too loudly, causing the people in the next group to glance over at us. Normally, I’d die of embarrassment to be caught like this in public, especially considering this event is for work. But fuck it, I don’t even work for him anymore.

“I hope I’m not one of those people.” He chuckles and I think he’s enjoying my level of intoxication at the moment.

“No…no. It’s not you.” The room is spinning. It looks amazing. Everything feels pretty awesome at the moment except my emotions. Those are fucking terrible.

“Well, who is it about?” he presses, crossing his arms. “Maybe I can help with the situation.”

“I think—no, I can’t.”

“Why not?” His eyebrows raise in suspicion.

Control your mouth. Control your mouth, you stupid girl!

“No, no. Nothing.”

Did that even make sense? God, just shut your mouth.

He laughs. “You’re a funny drunk. I like it.”

“I’m glad I amuse you.” I move closer to him. “You smell great.”

And suddenly, I’m hugging him.

His arms go around me tightly.

“I’m tired.” I yawn. Damn, the liquor is hitting me hard.

“How many drinks did you have?”

“Just a few…four.”

“Well my date has run off with another man. How about we head out together? Go get some cheap greasy fast food?”

“Yes! Let’s go!” I bounce up and down in excitement, struggling to walk in a straight line as we head for the exit.

Damn you, Benjamin Scott and your bipolar mood swings.

***

“You’re pretty fucking awesome,” Alex gushes. “A lot cooler than the other girls I date.”

We’re outside of the hotel in his car and I’m practically passing out I’m so tired.