Page 47 of Shadows Within

Harrison lowers his head when he sees me.

“Scarlett,” he says.

“You clean up nice Harr.” Callum speaks up first. He scans the room, like he’s searching for someone specific.

“Didn’t have a choice on a night like tonight. Could say the same for you though. It’s been a while since you’ve been to one of these.” Harrison glances at me, as if he suggests that Callum is here for me and not himself.

“We need some drinks.” The platinum blonde on Harrison’s arm speaks up.

I contemplate it, but I’m not comfortable enough to get a drink yet. I smile, wondering if her and Harrison are a couple or if she’s just here to support the group too. I have so many questions in this room of people I don’t know. I feel alone.

Callum must be reading my mind. He pulls me close and kisses the top of my head. Crowds of people in gowns and tuxedos surround us. Callum runs his hand down my bare back. There’s something about his touch that makes me crave his closeness.

“Dance with me.” I pull him toward me.

I’ve never seen a party like this. I’ve been to many of them, but this experience is hazy, almost like a dream. His cool hands slowly trail down my burning skin. The heat of the room clings to my exposed chest.

I sway my hips under the weight of his hands. With every movement, my chest brushes against him. Our eyes lock. We share the same breath.

Lights pulse and the crowd grooves to the beat of the music. Tension builds between my legs. I don’t look up at him, but his body moves closer to mine. Suddenly, it feels like there is no one else in the room, just him and I.

My cheek brushes against his. He opens his lips and moves his hands toward the slit of my dress. My nipples harden at his touch. He pushes the slit open, brushing his fingertips against the side of my thong. For once, I don’t care that others might see. I trust that he would never push it too far.

And just when the tension is unbearable, when I think I might explode, something shimmery catches my eye.

On the stage in the corner of the room, I spot the back of her honey golden hair. I would recognize it anywhere. The hair that I’ve braided. The hair that smells like coconut and once comforted me like a warm embrace. She swirls her hands above her head, dancing naked with golden tassels covering her nipples.

I shouldn’t stare, but I can’t peel my eyes away.

I need to know.

My stomach drops.

Don’t let it be her.

She turns around.

My heart pounds.

It’s my mother.

Protection

Scarlett

My stomach churns as my hands drop by my sides. My gaze moves to the floor. He looks to the corner where my mom is. I can’t look back at her.

“Get me out of here.” My eyes search for the door while I run, faster than the pounding of the music.

“Scarlett.” Callum runs after me, pushing through the swarm of people.

“Scarlett!”

I don’t turn around.

A faint sliver of light guides my way as the heavy door opens and closes, letting more people pile in. I push the door open. I’m outside. Finally, I catch my breath. My head spins.

A sweaty hand grips my arm, forcing me to turn around.