Song credit - Sweet Thing by Chaka Khan
I do not own Glee or its characters.
Thursday September 10th
"Mercy, baby. Please open the door. Please tell me what's wrong? Why are you shutting me out like this? What did I do? Whatever it is, please let me make it right."
"Go away Sam."
"No, I won't. Baby please let me see your face. I miss you so much. I'm dying here. Please let me in baby. At least tell me what I did."
"Sam, please." I hear her sniffles and it almost breaks me. "Please just leave."
"Mercedes… No. I need you. I need you baby. Please talk to me. What's the matter? You won't talk to me and I don't understand why. You ignored all my text messages and phone calls last night. Baby please tell me why. Don't shut me out like this."
"I can't see you anymore." I hear her inhale sharply, and then hear more sniffles.
"Why?"
"It just won't work."
"Really? Because it has been working beautifully. What's going on? Mercy I am not going to just walk away from you. I cannot do it. If I have to come back here every day just to talk to you through this door, I will. I will talk to you through this door if that is the only way I get to hear your voice. For as long as it takes beautiful. I'll always come back here. Back to you. You're in my heart. You ARE my heart. Mercy, please talk to me…..please don't do this."
"Goodbye Sam."
"No, Mercy." I close my eyes and feel the tears roll down my cheeks. I was so focused on getting her to talk to me and telling her that I am not going anywhere, that I didn't realize the tear steadily building in my eyes. I wipe them away quickly and then re-focus on the door. "Mercy, no. Please talk to me."
Silence screams from the other side of the door. I place my ear to the door to determine if she is still on the other side. Why is this happening? I replay our last phone conversation in my head. Everything was fine. I told her I would be at the bistro in ten minutes and she said she would be there, but when I arrived there was no sign of her. I went straight to our table on the patio and sat down thinking that she had went off to the ladies room. I sat there for several minutes not really thinking that anything was wrong. Then the waiter approached the table and informed me that she had left, that's when I knew there was something wrong. I grabbed my phone and repeatedly called her, but the call went directly to voice mail. As I continued to re-dial her number, he told me that she told him to tell me goodbye. I asked him what that meant, and he just shrugged, then let me know that she was upset when she left, and that she had been crying. When I heard those words, I felt an immediate pain in my chest. I dashed out of the bistro and drove directly here, only to find that she was not here. I continued to call and sent text messages repeatedly but there wasn't any type of response. The phone calls were going directly to voice mail and none of the text messages appeared to have been read. I then called her office number only to be told that she had taken the rest of the day off. I stayed in front of her house until nightfall before reluctantly driving to the apartment.
The night was sleepless for me. I continually called and sent her text messages throughout the evening only to be met with no response. At my wits end, I called her office again this morning only to be informed that she wasn't in today. That information resulted in my showing up here again this morning to find her car in the driveway. I close my eyes and place both of my hands against the door willing her to open it.
After five minutes of continued silence, I lower my left arm and glance down at my watch to find out the time. Fuck! I've got a meeting soon that I cannot miss. "Baby, I don't know what the hell is going on, but this isn't over Mercy. I'll talk to you later. Have a good day beautiful."
I slowly walk back to my car and open the door. I lean against the roof of the car and pause to look up at her house, hoping for any type of anything. After a few moments of no movement or change, I pound my fist against the roof and then climb into my car, slamming the door behind me. As I drive away my thoughts go back to the first time I saw her.
**********FLASHBACK Sunday June 7th**********
"Dad can we go to Dave and Buster's after I get registered?" We are standing in one of the two lines formed in front of a table to register him for a week-long band camp.
"Sure Zack attack, as long as you are allowed to leave, but I don't think you will be able to. If you can't leave, I'll take you before we head back home at the end of the week."
"Don't call me that here dad. It's embarrassing."
"Oh, sorry. Forgive me." I smirk at him as he rolls his eyes at me. I look over and see a woman with what I assume is her daughter laughing in the other line. Her back is to me and man what a view! As the two continue conversing, the woman turns her head and I inhale audibly. She's gorgeous. Zack looks over at me.
"You OK Dad?"
I reluctantly pull my eyes away from her. "Yeah buddy, I'm fine." He focuses back on his phone as my eyes go back to her. She's petite with mocha chocolate brown skin and long flowy curly black hair. I can see her face now and her eyes are pools of dark brown and brighten as she talks animatedly with her young companion. I guess she felt me staring because her eyes meet mine and then she smiles at me. I smile back and nod my head at her.
'Next!'
I watch as they step up to the table and I move up ever so slightly to listen in on the exchange. There is only one person ahead of Zack and I so I am close enough to the front to hear. I'm not sure what has come over me but I feel like I have to get to know her. I notice her take a packet of information from the table as the man behind the table tells her to fill out the emergency contact information card and place it in the wooden box. She nods and then walks away. My eyes follow her until the two of them take seats nearby. Why can't I stop staring at her? The line that Zack and I are in finally moves forward and we go through the steps of getting him registered for the week-long band camp. The woman behind our table tells me to take a packet of information to read through which will explain all of the activities that the kids will be involved in during the week. She also explains that the emergency contact information card must be filled out and returned before I leave the campus. We nod as she explains that the kids will be getting their field assignments today and that parents are welcome to attend. Just as we turn to leave, the mocha goddess returns and places her card in the box. I glance down quickly and scan the information she has filled in on the form. I can use this information to my advantage. I need to call my assistant.
"Need a pen?" Her voice is soft and rich. I turn and meet her brown eyes. She offers me a small smile as she holds the pen out to me with her left hand. Her intoxicating sweet aroma invades my nostrils. It smells like vanilla with a hint of honey. My eyes instinctively look for a wedding band and I feel immediate relief when I see none.
"Yes." I smile at her, my eyes scanning hers as I take the pen from her grasp. "Thank you." She nods, turns and the two of them walk away. I'm frozen. She's an angel. My eyes zero in on her backside again and I bite down on my bottom lip as I envision the hours of fun we could have together. All too soon, my fantasy is rudely interrupted as I feel Zack nudge me. He holds up the card and shakes it at me and then we make our way to a nearby table.
"Dad what hotel are you staying at?" I look over and see he has filled in most of the information for me.
"You know buddy, I don't even know. I'll have to call Harriet. Give me a second." I stand and walk a couple of feet away from him, and the other parents and students, to call my assistant.
"Hello Mr. Evans. How can I help you?"
"Harriett, I need you to make me a reservation at the Marriott Hotel here in Gainesville on Seary Road. I want the room right next to room 520, not sure what the room number would be. If there are occupants in that room, please have their room upgraded for the duration of their stay. It is imperative that I get the room closest to 520, especially if the rooms are joined."
"Yes, sir. I will text you with confirmation. If there is a problem, I will call."
"Thank you, Harriett." I walk back over to the table to join Zack. "Harriet was away from her desk so we just have to wait until she calls back."
"I cannot believe you don't even know where you are staying."
"Cut me some slack buddy. Everything was done last minute you know."
"Yeah, I know. Thank you for bringing me dad."
"Hey, I'm glad I had the chance. I know your mother wishes she could have but she had an emergency and like I said, I am glad that you asked me instead of not coming at all. Don't ever doubt that I wouldn't be here for you even when your mother cannot be. I'll always have your back." I pat him on the shoulder as I feel my phone buzz. I take it out of my blazer pocket and look down at the text from Harriett as I smile in satisfaction. "OK, I am at the Marriott Hotel 11232 Seary Road room 522."
"Got it." He stands and we walk back over to the table to deliver the card. "So, are you going to stay for field assignments?"
"Of course. Let's go."
Once we arrive at the stadium, Zack goes to his assigned counselor and I take the trek to the stands alone. I glance around to see if she is here and smile when I notice her sitting toward the end of a bleacher just a few rows from the top. I walk over to the steps and then begin to walk down. As I near her, her head turns and she smiles at me again. "Mind if I join you?"
"Sure, help yourself."
"Thanks." I take a seat and glance out at the field as the kids get their instructions. "Seems like they have a pretty active week planned."
"Yes, it does. My daughter is so excited. This should be a really good experience for them."
"I agree." I clear my throat as I rack my brain on how to keep the conversation going. "Which one is yours?"
She glances out at the kids and then smiles. "Third row from the front, sixth from the left with the Superman neck strap." I nod and smile in confirmation once I locate her daughter.
"She's beautiful."
"Thank you. Which one is yours?"
"Second drummer from the right with the Superman drumsticks."
"Oh boy. You have a Superman fanatic on your hands too I see?"
I nod my head and smile. "I don't even know that fanatic accurately describes him. He is overly obsessed."
"Has he been to Metropolis yet?"
"No but he has been wanting to go."
"Yeah, Ally does too. That's my daughter Allyson, Ally for short."
"My son's name is Zachary, Zack for short."
"Well I am sure they will notice each other's Superman gear and have loads to talk about."
"I'm sure they will." We sit in silence for a few minutes as we listen to the kids play a few warmup scales from their places on the field. I'm dying to continue our conversation, but I know I cannot be too eager and ask a lot of random personal questions about her. Truth is I already want to know everything about this woman right now. Now that I am seated next to her and breathing more normally, I smell that distinct vanilla and honey aroma again. It is intoxicating. My phone buzzes and I pull it from my pocket to read another text from Harriett letting me know that the room is ready. I text her back quickly and then slide the phone back into my pocket. We continue to sit in a comfortable silence. After about fifteen more minutes, the kids get dismissed from the field and I notice Ally waving at her mother to come down.
"Looks like I am being summoned. It was good talking to you. Hope you have a great week."
"I'll walk down with you. Seems I'm being summoned as well." I point out at Zack who is motioning for me to come down. I stand and step out of the row. "After you."
"Thank you."
As we reach the field I watch as Ally loops her arm with her mother's and they walk toward a counselor.
"Dad, I want to introduce you to my counselor and then there is a reception for the campers only."
"OK, lead the way."
After shaking the counselor's hand, Zack and I say goodnight and I turn to leave. My eyes scan the crowd again for my mocha angel and I smile when I find her. After hugging her daughter, she turns to leave as well. I take a few quick steps to fall in a few people behind her but close enough for her aroma to keep me hypnotized. When we reach the outside of the stadium, I notice as she stops and pulls her phone out of her purse. Surely she isn't calling a cab. This could be my opportunity. I slow my steps and then redirect my path so that I can bump into her. I angle my shoulder to lightly graze her as I pass. "Oh, I'm sor-. Hey."
"Hey. It's OK." She looks up and then back at her phone.
"You calling a cab?"
"Yeah, I didn't rent a car for the week. It seems like a waste of money when I will probably be hanging around the hotel for most of the week anyway."
"Well, I can give you a lift."
"No, that's OK but thank you for the offer."
"Really, it's fine. I don't mind. Where are you staying?"
"At the Marriott Hotel on Seary Road."
"Well, madam you are in luck. That's where I am staying too. Come on. I definitely won't take no for an answer now." She smiles and nods. "By the way my name is Sam. Sam Evans."
"Hi Sam. I'm Mercedes Jones. It's nice to meet you."
"It's nice to meet you too."
**********END OF FLASHBACK**********
As I enter my apartment, I walk into the kitchen and drop my keys on the counter. I take my phone from my pocket and call my assistant.
"Good morning Mr. Evans."
"Good morning Harriet. I'm going to be working remotely today so please forward all calls to my Buckhead apartment."
"Yes sir."
"Also, please contact Tony and ask him to bring the BMW over to my apartment. I will need him to take the Lexus to the shop. There is a small dent on the roof that needs to be repaired."
"Yes sir. Is there anything else that you need?"
"No, that will be all. Thank you Harriet." I end the call and grab a bottle of apple juice out of the refrigerator. I go into my office and power up my laptop. Our selfie appears on the screen and I feel my throat tighten. Her smile continues to take my breath away. Will I ever get to see her smile like this again?
A few hours later I finish up my last call and then decide to take a quick shower. As I shower, I continue to replay the events of yesterday over in my head. Maybe I should go back to the restaurant to see if the waiter knows what made her upset. I realize now that I didn't ask him before I left. Maybe there is some sort of surveillance camera that would give me some insight on what happened. Even as I think it, I know it sounds extreme, but it's only been a little over twenty-four hours without her and I am going crazy.
After I am done with my shower, I go out to the living room and see Zack on the couch. "Hey son. How was school?"
"It was fine. What time are we leaving for Cedes' house?"
"Sorry buddy but Mercedes had something come up and had to cancel."
"Oh, OK. When can we go back to the house? There is nothing for me to do here because all my games are there. How much longer are you going to wait to tell Cedes the truth?"
It's much too soon to let him know what has happened. I'm hoping that it all gets resolved without him ever having to know. "I'm going to tell her soon buddy. In the meantime, how about we go back to the house so you can pack up some of your games to bring here?"
"Yes! Can I call Ally and see if she wants to come over for a battle? My room is clean and I just finished up my homework."
"I don't know if tonight is a good idea. Maybe another day this week or the weekend."
"OK. What day can I ask her over?"
"Let me check my schedule and I'll let you know."
"OK." I sit down on the other end of the couch and turn on the TV. "Um, dad. Are you going to check your schedule? What's going on?"
"What do you mean?"
"I mean usually when I ask to invite Ally over you grab your phone to call Cedes before I can even finish the question."
"Don't be a worry wart Zack. Cedes is still working and you know I don't like interrupting her. I'll call her when she is off work."
"Oh, OK. Can we go to the house now so I can get my system and some games?"
"Sure, let's go." I stand and go into the kitchen to get my keys. When I walk back to the foyer, I notice him typing on his phone. "I thought we were going to get your games?"
"We are." He stands and smirks as he passes me to open the front door. I file in behind him, flicking his cap. "What are we having for dinner tonight?"
"I don't know. What do you want?"
"Tacos sound good."
"Tacos it is then. You want to call ahead and have Ms. Percy make them for us?"
"Ok."
Once we get outside, he questions the car change. "Why aren't we in the truck?"
"There a little damage on the roof that needs to be repaired." He nods and buckles his seat belt.
"It's been a while since you've driven this one. I think the last time was when you took me to band camp, right?"
I swallow the lump that immediately formed in my throat. "Yep, you're right."
I put the car in drive and pull into traffic. My eyes dart over to him ever so often because I suspect he is texting with Ally. I debate with myself on whether I need to come clean. He really likes Mercy and I don't want to upset him but most importantly I feel a twinge of guilt for keeping this from him. I'm still hoping that whatever has upset her will blow over and that my phone will ring at any minute. He finishes up his call to Ms. Percy and then I notice as he begins typing again on his phone. I shift my eyes back on the road and say a silent prayer that Mercy hasn't said anything to Ally yet. We reach the house and Zack darts out of the car. I'm startled by the action and begin to wonder if he knows. I throw my head back against the head rest and exhale loudly. I know this isn't going to turn out well.
I step into the house and Ms. Percy greets me. "Hello Mr. Sam."
"Hi Ms. Percy. Where did Zack go?"
"I'm right here. I had to use the bathroom. Sorry I bailed out on you like that, but I couldn't hold it anymore." He chuckles to himself and hugs Ms. Percy.
"Hi my baby. How's school?" They turn and walk arm in arm as Zack fills her in on his first days as a freshman. I take the opportunity to go to my room and make a call to Mercy."
'Hi You've reached Mercedes. Please leave a message and I'll call you back as soon as I can. Bye!''
"Hi Mercy. It's me again. Baby please talk to me. At least tell me what happened. Whatever it is I will fix it, I promise. I miss you so much. Zack wants Ally to come over and I don't know what to tell him. I mean have you told Ally what's going on? I'm just lost. I need you. I need to talk to you, I need to hold you and tell you everything will be OK. Baby, please call me or text me back or something. Please."
"What's going on dad?" Zack startles me as he stands in the doorway. I press the button on my phone to disconnect from her voice mail.
"Oh, Zack. I didn't realize you were there."
"What's going on dad? What's happened between you and Cedes?"
"I don't know. She won't talk to me."
"Ally said all her mom has been doing for the past day is crying. Cedes won't tell her what's wrong." His voice cracks and it breaks my heart. I look over at him and see that his eyes are beginning to water.
"Zack, I swear, I don't know what's wrong. I'm trying to find out, but she won't respond to any of my calls or text messages." I clear my throat trying to reassure him. "I will keep trying I promise. You don't worry about it, son."
He turns and just walks away. I drop my phone on the bed and sit down on the edge. With my head in my hands and my thoughts racing, I try to slow them so that I can concentrate on what my next move will be. She won't answer my calls or text messages, she won't open the door when I go to her house and she just tells me to leave when I am there knocking on the door. Now Zack is upset. I'm sure Ally is upset too. I fling myself back onto the bed, press my palms against my forehead and close my eyes thinking back to our car ride from the stadium after leaving the kids at band camp.
**********Flashback Sunday June 7th(Continued)**********
"All set?" I look over at her with a small smile.
She turns and smiles back at me. "Yes." I start the engine, shift the gear and begin our drive to the Marriott. After driving for a few minutes, she clears her throat. "So, where did you and Zack travel from?"
"Atlanta. You?"
"Atlanta as well. We live in Buckhead."
"Nice. Would you believe we live in Buckhead too?" My mind begins to race. Why did I just say that? Think Sam. What's the name of that apartment complex? Shit.
"Really? House or apartment?"
"Apartment." Come on. Come to me. What is it?
"Let me guess." She studies me for a few moments. "You live at the Blue Atrium Estates, don't you?"
"Why would you guess there?" I smile as her admission triggers my memory of that complex. That's where my company leases apartments when needed for our contractors.
"You just seem like that's where you would live. You've got this certain vibe about you, this expensive car, manicured fingers. With an apartment, I don't see you living anywhere else in Buckhead but at the Blue Atrium."
"Wow, you're really good. Yes. That's where we live." I make a mental note to call Harriet once I get settled into the room to setup a lease for me at one of the apartments at the Blue Atrium.
"I'm so good." She smiles and then turns her head forward. "So, what kind of work do you do?"
"I won't make you guess that one. I'm a senior executive for one of the biggest companies in Atlanta. I won't tell you which one though. I mean you might be a crazy stalker or something." I wink at her and chuckle.
She giggles. "Fair enough. I work for a marketing firm."
"Do you enjoy your job?"
"Yes, I really do. I've been in the marketing field since graduating from Spelman college. I've been working at Rose and Potts for seven years now." She stills and then grins over at me. "Oops, I wasn't supposed to tell you that. Oh well. I know where you live and you know where I work. I think that's fair."
"I think you are right." What are the odds? She works for my ex-father in law. I pull into the parking lot and park near the lobby entrance. "Well, here we are."
"Thank you again Sam. I really appreciate it."
"Anytime Mercedes." She opens the door and steps out as I walk to the trunk and begin to unload my bags. I see her lingering nervously by the front of my car and it makes me smile. "You don't have to wait for me."
"It's the least I can do. I wanted to see if you needed any help taking your bags in before I took off." Oh, that's perfect. That will keep her from leaving me in the lobby while I check in. Normally I wouldn't fathom having a woman help me with my bags, but I will make an exception in this case.
"Well, if you don't mind, I could use some help." I hand her my duffle bag as I pull my laptop bag and suitcase out of the trunk. I click the button to close the trunk and then follow her into the lobby. She stands to the side as I stop at the front desk and collect my room key. I walk over to join her and then we walk together to the elevators. We step into a car when it arrives.
"What floor?"
"Fifth."
"No way. That's my floor too. What room?"
I look down at the small envelope with my key cards. "522." I'm doing my best to keep the shit eating grin off my face.
"You're kidding me, right?" I offer her a confused look and then look at the envelope again, holding it up so she can see the room number written on the outside. "That's crazy. I'm in 520. I could have sworn that there was already an older couple in the room next to me."
"Seriously?"
She nods. "I guess we were just destined to run into each other today." She smiles as the elevator stops on the fifth floor. She steps out, smiling over her shoulder at me. I know I shouldn't, but my eyes scan down and then stop at her ass. It's glorious and my hands are itching to touch it. She turns her head as we round the corner and I quickly pull my eyes back up to her face. We reach my room first and she stops as I pull out one of the cards to unlock the door. "So, I was thinking you should join me for dinner downstairs in the restaurant this evening. You know, as a 'thank you' for the ride today."
"Why Ms. Mercedes if I didn't know any better I would think you were asking me out on a date." She bites down on her bottom lip and then fixes her mouth to say something, but I cut her off. "I would love to. Say in about an hour?"
She smiles and nods. "That sounds good. I'll stop by and pick you up." She winks as she hands my duffle bag over to me. I sit it inside the door and watch as she walks the feet away and unlocks her door. She glances over her shoulder at me. "I'll see you in an hour." She disappears into the room as the door slams shut behind her.
"Yes!" I fist pump the air and then walk into my room.
**********END OF FLASHBACK**********
"Hey Dad, tacos are ready."
I dart upright on the bed and see Zack watching me from the doorway. "Thanks Zack. I'll be there in a minute." He walks over and sits down next to me.
"Dad, you know I really like Cedes, and you've been so happy since you met her, so I hope you can fix whatever happened because I like seeing you happy."
"I hope so too Zack." I exhale and then stand. "Come on let's go eat."
After dinner and an hour of Zack trying to cheer me up, we both pack a few things and then head back to the apartment. Once we arrive, Zack tells me he is going to shower and play a video game before going to bed. I nod and then head to my room. I just feel so empty. I wish she would just talk to me and tell me what happened. I strip down to my briefs and climb into bed as my phone chimes from the nightstand. I still as my heartbeat begins to race. Is it her? I lean over and grab the phone and look at the screen.
Hey Sammy. Can we please get together and talk over drinks?
I blink rapidly at the message before a scowl spreads across my face. I don't respond and just put the phone back on the nightstand. Get drinks with her? Fuck no! The phone chimes again and I know it's her. I snatch my phone up and call her.
"Hey you."
"Look, I don't know what the fuck you are on but please hear me. I'm being very direct when I say this. There is no hesitation in my voice, so listen very carefully. I do not now nor will I ever want to get together and have anything with you. At this point, the only reason I am communicating with you is because we share a child, and you are abusing that. So, I am putting you on notice, do not call or text me again about anything except Zack. I mean it." I disconnect the call, check the wake up alarm and then drop the phone on the bed next to me just as it chimes again. Are you fucking kidding me? I count the chimes as they sound from the phone. After nine, it stops. Thank you! I pick up the phone and place it back on the nightstand. I press the power button on the TV and begin flipping through the channels. I need something to distract me. Once I settle on a rerun of Criminal Minds, I drop the remote on the bed next to me and yawn. I stare blankly up at the ceiling thinking about our usual Thursday nights. We would have had dinner at her house before playing a few rounds of Phase 10. Zack and Ally would then scurry off to play a video game while Mercy and I cleaned the kitchen. Well, she would be trying to clean the kitchen. I would be doing my best to get her out of her clothes. And tonight, we were supposed to be staying the night with them. Ally and I were supposed to cook. A soft melody plays from the TV and that causes my eyes and thoughts to focus on the screen. A young couple then appears on the screen both seated at a table in a restaurant. A waiter brings a covered dish to the table, nods to the man and sits the dish in front of the woman. The waiter removes the lid to reveal a red velvet box in the center of the plate surrounded by rose petals. The woman's eyes water and then dart up to find the man standing before her as he slowly kneels. I feel my chest tighten as the scene plays out in front of my now watery eyes. That should be us. That's going to be us. I just have to figure out how to get her to talk to me again because she is going to be my wife.
**********FLASHBACK Sunday June 7th(Continued)**********
A soft knock sounds against my room door and I smile as I grab my phone and wallet. I open the door and she takes my breath away yet again. She has her hair up in a high bun and is wearing a light blue dress with spaghetti straps. The dress has a flowy look and falls just above her knees. She grins at me as she watches me take in her look. "You ready?"
"Yes, ma'am." I lock my eyes on hers. "You look extraordinary."
A nervous giggle escapes her. "Thank you." I see her fidget with her fingers and look down at her hands before bringing her eyes back to mine. "Come on, I'm starved." She turns and begins walking down the hall toward the elevators as I close the door and follow. Her ass in this dress – oh my god. It should be against the law to have an ass like hers. "The restaurant downstairs has gotten a lot of rave reviews so I'm hoping that means that dinner will be enjoyable for us both."
"I haven't eaten a thing and I am already enjoying myself." She glances back at me and I wink at her as she giggles. We reach the elevators and I press the button to call one. I glance over at her again and smile. "I have to say it again, you look beautiful."
She softly clears her throat. "Thank you." The elevator dings and the doors open to reveal an almost full car. She starts to wave her hand to signal that we will get the next one, but I grab it and pull her into the car with me.
"Come on, we can fit." I turn her so that her back is to my front with just the smallest of space between our two bodies. Her petite frame could nestle perfectly against me. My head could rest comfortably on top of her head. I'm itching to wrap my arms around her, but I figure that I shouldn't press my luck, so my hands stay at my sides. Her scent engulfs me just as the elevator reaches the lobby. As the doors open, I lean down close to her ear and inhale. "You smell heavenly."
I hear her gasp softly as she turns her head and looks up at me. Our lips are mere inches apart. My eyes quickly dart between her lips and eyes and I watch as her eyes do the same. "Thank you Sam." She slowly tears her eyes away from me and exits the elevator. I follow at a small distance and as usual, glue my eyes to her ass. "You know at some point you are going to have to stop walking behind me." She stops and turns to face me with a grin.
I smirk at her and move closer. "Oh, I will eventually. But right now, I'm just enjoying that spectacular view."
"You are a such a flirt."
"Maybe but I speak only the truth. You look extraordinary. You look beautiful. You smell heavenly, and that view? Fucking spectacular."
She laughs and shakes her head. "You are so crazy. Come on." She grabs my hand and pulls me toward the restaurant. I tighten my grip and follow her. Once we get seated, we both peruse the menu while waiting for our water.
"What are you going to have?"
"Hmm, I don't know. The baked ziti looks good but so does the Cajun chicken pasta. It will probably be one of those. What looks good to you?"
"You." She looks up at me, shakes her head and chuckles with a wide smile on her face. "But for dinner, I think grilled salmon pasta." She nods and looks back down at her menu. I close mine and watch her intently. I want this woman. I want this woman in the worst way. And not just her body. I want everything. My eyes zero in on her lips. Plump and kissable. I watch as she absent-mindedly drums her fingernails against the tablecloth. The waiter returns with our water and takes our order. I gesture for her to order first, and she proceeds to order the Cajun chicken pasta and a glass of chardonnay. I order the grilled salmon pasta and a glass of merlot. The waiter collects our menus and leaves. "So, tell me everything about you."
"Like what?"
"Everything, relationship status, your likes, dislikes, what you like to do for fun, things like that."
"Well, I'm a divorced mother of one. I'm 36. I was married for four years and have been divorced for ten. I'm a senior marketing director in Atlanta. I have one brother who is a firefighter. No sisters. When I am not working or doing my motherly duties, you'll probably find me in a bookstore or in a coffee shop. I also like to paint. Nothing fancy, just watercolors usually. My life is quiet and normal. I like music, fashion and chocolate. I don't dislike much except maybe mushrooms. Oh, and people who like to cause drama."
"OK and just to make sure, you are single right? Are you dating anyone?"
"Yes, I am single, and I date but no one exclusively at the moment."
"And why is that?"
"Well, that's not by choice. I've dated a lot since my divorce. And in all of that dating, there was only one that went further than a second date. He and I lasted three years, but in the end, we just weren't on the same page about where the relationship was going. That was a couple of years ago and since then, I haven't met anyone who I felt any type of connection with to warrant more than a second date."
"How do you know if there is a connection?"
"It's hard to explain, I just feel it."
"And do you feel anything between us?"
"I do."
"Good, I'm glad it's not just me."
"No, it's not just you." She takes a sip from her water glass and then looks back over at me. "So, tell me about you."
"Well, I am single, let's just make that clear off the top. I'm divorced with one son. I was married for eight years and have been divorced for six. I'm 38. Like I told you earlier today I am a senior executive for a firm in Atlanta. Work keeps me pretty busy but when I am not working or doing something with Zack, I like to draw and play the guitar. I like music too and chocolate chip cookies. Dislikes – I'm right there with you with mushrooms and drama but I also dislike shrimp."
"And why are you single?"
"Because I've been waiting to meet you."
"And there is Mr. Flirt again."
"Seriously, I've dated a lot over the years since my divorce as well, but nothing lasted. However, I think my luck has changed." I wink at her as the waiter arrives with our food. We continue our conversation and she tells me about her daughter, Ally, and I tell her all about Zack. She giggles at all of my silly impressions. Once our meal is done, the waiter brings the check and I go to grab it, but she is quicker and slips it right out of my grasp.
"This was my treat remember?"
"I can't let you do that."
"Too bad because I am."
"OK, so that means it will be my treat tomorrow."
"Deal."
"So that means you are agreeing to go out to dinner with me tomorrow, out as in a date?"
"Yes."
I nod my head and smile. I have a date with her, and I couldn't be happier. The waiter returns and collects her card, swiping it at the table and returning it to her. She signs the ticket and hands it back to him. He excuses himself and we finish our drinks before standing and leaving the restaurant. I grab her hand as we walk toward the elevators. "Can I interest you in a night cap?"
"Only if I can get out of these clothes first."
"Oh, that definitely can be arranged." I lick my lips as my eyes trail up and down her body.
She shakes her head with a wide smile on her face. "You are so crazy. I see I will have to watch what I say around you." She arches her eyebrow at me as she chuckles softly.
"That's fine, and I'll just watch you." She continues shaking her head as she steps out of the elevator and I fall in line behind her. "Especially the back of you."
She turns the corner to head to her room and quickly glances at me over her shoulder. "And when do I get to watch the back of you?"
"Just say the word. Whenever you want, but be warned, the view won't be as fucking fantastic as yours." She shakes her head as she reaches her room and then turns to face me with a huge grin. "So, twenty minutes enough time to get comfortable?"
"That will be fine. See you then Sam."
"See you then Mercedes." I wait until she enters her room and the door closes before I enter mine. I kick off my shoes, empty my pants pockets and remove my blazer. The top two buttons on my shirt are already undone. I untuck my shirt from my pants and remove my belt. I go to the two bottles of liquor I brought from my own personal stash. I hope these are OK. I grin and hurry over to the phone. I listen as the phone rings and then she answers.
"Hello?"
"Hey beautiful. It's Sam."
She chuckles. "Hey Sam."
"Just wanted to know if you drink bourbon or scotch. That's all I brought with me, so I am hoping it's OK for you."
"Sure, scotch works for me. On the rocks please."
"Great. OK, I'll see you in a few minutes. I just opened the adjoining door so you can come through it when you are ready."
"OK. See you in a bit."
I grab the ice bucket and slide my feet into my slippers. As I walk down the hall it hits me. Shit! I left my keycard in the room. Thankfully I opened the adjoining door so she will be able to let me back into my room. Once I am back with the ice bucket, I knock on her door. She opens it and gives me a confused look.
"I locked myself out. Can you walk over and let me in?"
"Or you could just walk through my room to yours."
"Or I could just do that." She waves me in and closes the door. I wait and follow her into her room and then to the adjoining doorway to my room. She's wearing a t-shirt and a pair of black leggings. Even dressed down like this, she is breathtaking. "Come on over when you are ready."
"Be there in a second, I just want to take my hair down."
I nod and walk into my room. I place the ice bucket next to the bottles of liquor, then pick up the glasses and walk over to the sink. After rinsing them out, I turn and see her seated on the couch. "Hi there."
"Hey you." I walk over to the small table in front of the couch and sit the glasses down. Then I pick up the ice bucket and the bottle of scotch and sit them on the table as well. I take a seat next to her and begin preparing our drinks. I notice as she shifts her body and crosses her legs Indian style on the couch. That move causes my eyes to instinctively zero in on the 'V' between her legs. I quickly pull my eyes away when I notice her looking at me. "Here you go. Scotch on the rocks."
"Thanks."
"How about some music?"
"Sure."
I stand and turn on the television and tune to the quiet storm music station. I lower the volume to a comfortable level and walk back over to rejoin her on the couch. "So.."
"So.."
"We're going out on a date tomorrow night, our second if you count tonight, but what will you be doing for the rest of the day, pretty lady?"
"I'll be working from here. Unfortunately, this isn't a vacation for me. I have several calls that I have to take tomorrow."
"That's no fun."
"Yeah, I know but it is a necessary evil." She takes a drink from her glass and then rests it against her thigh as another song begins to play. "Oh, I love this song. Can you turn it up a little bit?" I stand and increase the volume a couple of notches as she begins to sing. The sound of her voice immediately stops me from moving back over to the couch next to her.
I will love you anyway
Even if you cannot stay
I think you are the one for me
Here is where you ought to be
I just want to satisfy you
Though you're not mine
I can't deny you
Don't you hear me talking baby?
Love me now or I'll go crazy
Oh sweet thing
Don't you know you're my everything?
Oh sweet thing
Don't you know you're my everything?
Yes, you are
Her voice is as sweet as an angel. My throat tightens as she begins to next verse. I clear it and extend my hand to her. "Dance with me." She stands, sits her glass on the table and takes my out-stretched hand as I pull her close to me. She nestles her head against my chest and continues to sing. The feel of her body against mine and the sweet vanilla aroma surrounding me are enough to make me want to scoop her up and deposit her in the middle of my bed. Adding the sultry tone of her voice into the mix, I'm ready to drop to the floor and proclaim everything I am and everything I have to her. I am completely enraptured. After she finishes the second verse, she looks up at me. I smile down at her and bring my hands up to gently cradle her head. "You are so beautiful Mercedes. May I kiss you?" She grins and nods as she wraps her hands around my forearms. I lower my mouth and press my lips firmly against hers. She sighs softly as our heads angle at the same time and the kiss deepens. Her arms are now tightly around my neck and my arms are wrapped low around her waist. I snake my tongue between her lips and into her mouth. As our tongues twist and turn together, I allow my hands to roam down from her waist to rest on her ass. She moans and I exhale. Her breasts are snuggled against me and I am almost certain that I can feel her nipples hard and erect underneath her shirt. Man, this feels so fucking right, but I have to slow down. I take one hand and cradle the side of her face with it. I begin to slowly stroke her cheek with my thumb as our kiss slows until we finally break apart. I grin down at her as I continue rubbing her cheek. "How late can you stay?"
"Not too late. I have an eight o'clock call in the morning." I feel her arms loosen from around my neck and sense her getting ready to pull away.
"Where are you going?"
"I was going to finish my drink before leaving."
"No, stay right here. I want to say something to you." She gently nods and smiles as I glide my index finger lightly across her bottom lip. I study her eyes. "Normally, I wouldn't dream of having my date pay for dinner, but I am willing to make an exception here. Tonight, was our first date, there was dinner and dancing. Tomorrow will be our second, so we will be past that hurdle. Now, having said that, I need you to know and believe me when I say that I'm not looking for a one-night thing here. I'm attracted to you and want to spend time with you now and when we get back to Atlanta. How do you feel about that?" My eyes continue to study hers as I wait for her response.
Her smile widens. "I would like that. I'm attracted to you too Sam."
"Good. Now, I'm going to let you go before I forget my manners, throw you on that bed and fuck you senseless. However, before I release you, I'm going to say this. When our time comes, mark my words, I am going to fuck you senseless, in, on, and against every available surface."
"Is that a promise?"
"That's a promise beautiful." I release my hold around her waist as I kiss the tip of her nose and then her forehead.
She walks over to the table and picks up her glass. She finishes the rest of the drink in one gulp, hands the glass to me and then walks toward the adjoining doors. She stops and bites down on her bottom lip as she looks over her shoulder at me with low seductive eyes. "Good night Sam."
"Good night Mercedes." I watch as she disappears into her room and closes the door.
As I lay in bed, I think back over the day. From our meeting at the campus to our drive to the hotel to dinner and then to our nightcap. This is a day I will never forget. I inhale and smile. Her scent still lingers in the room long after she has gone. I think back to her sweet voice singing along to the song playing on the television. And then to our first kiss and how our lips connected so perfectly. Her soft moans. I feel a twinge of pride when I remember how I slowed us down. I don't want to mess up what we could have by having sex too soon. Like I told her, I am not looking for a one-night stand. I want more with her. I want her. I close my eyes as the smile remains on my lips. I want her and not just physically. I want everything with her. I want her by my side. I feel a connection with her that I have never felt with anyone else. She is the one, but I know I have to take it slow. I cannot reveal too much about myself, because I don't want to scare her away, but when the time is right, I will tell her. And then I will make her my wife.
**********END OF FLASHBACK**********
The phone chimes again and I groan. What the fuck do I have to do to make her leave me alone? I lean over and pick it up from the nightstand.
Come on Sammy don't be that way
We always had a good time together after a few drinks
I miss you
I know I messed up but I am sorry
I will do whatever I need to do to fix this so that we can be a family again
Think of Zack and how happy he would be to have his family together
I'm not giving up on us
Can we at least talk about this face to face
No one will ever love you the way I do
I'll be here whenever you are ready to talk
I read the text messages and then decide to turn off the ringer. I place it back on the nightstand and then turn over onto my side. I click the power button on the remote to turn off the television. After a few minutes, I feel myself begin to drift.