Well, here's chapter one. It's much longer than the prologue. There's
nothing I really need to set up, it's pretty much self-explanatory. I hope
you enjoy this fruit of my tired brain. It's been fun to write so far. Let
me know if I should keep 'em coming. The song part is "What Might've Been"
by Lonestar.
Lorenzo woke up to pitch black. The same old dark, empty room he woke up to every time. Sighing he reached over and turned on his bedside light. His watch told him it was 5 pm, but it was no different to him then 5 am. All the hours seemed to blur together, but he stopped caring a long time ago. He hadn't planned on showering, but when he got up and saw he had opened some wound on his side, Lorenzo decided to bathe. The water was cool and fresh and rather enjoyable. He stayed there for some time, soaking and relaxing. "If only I could get back to being the man I was." He thought longingly. His mind always drifted to "if only" when "what if" wasn't around.
That evening he decided to go to Jack's, an old bar he used to frequent. It was a little far, so he hadn't been there in a while. Hopping in his car, Lorenzo put on the radio as he drove off.
We can't go back again, There's no use giving in. And there's no way to know What might've been.
"Damn country." He thought, changing the station. His fondness for country music wasn't the best choice. Classical would have to do, not that he minded. One thing that didn't diminish was his love for music. It was his only other escape. On nights where his eyes were swollen nearly shut and it hurt to do anything, it never hurt to listen. As his mind drifted off, set into motion by that Lonestar chorus, he decided this was going to be one of those nights he went home bleeding.
Once in the bar, he sat down and ordered vodka. It had been his favorite since the year he spent in Russia hiding from enemies. It was also the year he kicked his coke habit. He almost wished he hadn't nowadays. The bar was bustling with life, only not the kind most people wanted to be around. Most would go out of their way to avoid this gathering of low lives, but not Lorenzo. This was his home away from home. Somehow he still felt superior to all these social outcasts, but something told him it couldn't be by much. It wasn't very late yet, so the atmosphere was mildly pleasant, considering. A lot of the visitors were just taking a break from life and the family, or hanging out with their buddies over a stiff drink. It was too soon for the miserable to take over. Lorenzo was a little early, but had nothing to keep him occupied elsewhere, so he began his night of drinking. A few shots later, his sophistication was fading away. It wouldn't be long until he'd be ready to receive a good old-fashioned ass kicking. Was this all he had to look forward to these days? What a sad state to have come to.
Abruptly his thoughts were interrupted by some rather loud arguing. A large, bulky man who just screamed white trash was yelling at a tiny, pale brunette. A lover's squabble, Lorenzo was sure, turning his attention back to his glass. It wasn't his concern, and he really couldn't care less. Soon the voices dropped and the bar was calm once more. Lorenzo's inhibitions were slowly leaving him, and the blurred mess he had been calling life for months was returning. Familiar, but far from comforting. Soon, he kept telling himself. His angry days were more enjoyable, but these days had a purging affect. In his head, he was developing a plan to start a fight. Lorenzo discovered there was an art to it. Wrong person or wrong approach could lead to no fight, a call to the police, or any number of unwanted things. As he was laying out his idea, there again came yelling. The same two people he saw before were starting up again. Aggravated, he would have ignored it like last time, but it was closer now.
"I told you the first time, I don't care what you want, I'm not a whore and I'm not going home with you. I don't even know you!"
"Shut up! You're gonna do exactly what I say, got it?"
"And why the hell would I do that primate?"
The man glared fiercely at the unafraid woman.
"Because I'm bigger 'en you an' there ain't nothing gonna stop me, so shut the hell up skank."
Usually a bar would have incidents like this taken care of, but this one was a shady place owned and operated by some apathetic criminals. They just sold the booze, and even welcomed the entertainment. The other people there drinking couldn't care less either, or were too drunk to know what was going on. Lorenzo wasn't quite there yet. He figured he'd use this as his opportunity to pick a fight. And this guy looked like he could deal out a serious beating.
"You're not going to make me do anything, understand?"
The woman was obviously battle ready, but Lorenzo was shocked to see not even an ounce of fear. The woman stood up to this man like he was a child. She wasn't even drunk. Probably just brainless, he thought.
"And what could you do cunt?"
"Don't tempt me."
"Oh come on tough girl. Let me see what you got"
He didn't have to wait long either. The small woman retracted her arm and sung at the man with astonishing force. The man went reeling. Lorenzo was shocked. That was quite a shot, especially from someone so petite. The man slowly got up from the table he was sprawled out on. When putting his hand to his face, blood greeted him.
"You worthless little bitch!" he snarled.
He lunged at the woman who seemed ready and waiting. Lorenzo knew she had no chance, no matter how tough she was. He quickly got up and stopped the man in his tracks.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you." He threatened coldly.
"What the hell do you want? This doesn't concern you."
"What a big man you are, going after a woman."
"I don't need a lecture, the whore hit me, an' she's gonna pay, now move before I make you."
The woman stepped forward and glared at both men.
"I don't know who either of you think you are. Both of you leave me the hell alone. And you," she said looking at Lorenzo, "I don't need any help from you or anyone else."
She was seething at this point, her eyes ablaze. She stared holes into Lorenzo, actually startling him with her ferocity.
"You should feel lucky. I don't care how strong you think you are, you can't win, so quit while you're ahead. I'm sure your manicurist wouldn't want you to break a nail."
"Excuse me Mr. Righteous? You think I'd need your help? That would be like going to war wielding a pointy stick. I don't need you, especially with this piece of overgrown trash."
Enraged, the man suddenly pushed Lorenzo to the side, moving faster than expected.
"I'll show you girl. Someone needs to put you in your place."
He swung at her and she ducked away, punching him in the abdomen. He doubled over, but then swung again. She blocked and went to hit again, but he caught her arm and smashed his elbow into her face, sending her to the floor. Lorenzo decided to act. The self-pity day just turned into an angry one. No matter how he felt about his life, he could never allow a man to hit a woman. Even if she was asking for it. He grabbed the guy and head butted him, then brought his knee up, opening a gash over the man's eyebrow. As the guy yelled in pain, Lorenzo punched him in the face and was about to give him a gut shot when all of a sudden he was falling. The woman had tripped both of them with one good sweep of her leg. She got up quickly, giving Lorenzo a dirty look before moving over to the man, still in pain. She kicked him in the side a couple times, making sure he stayed down. Once satisfied she stopped and went back to sit at the bar, motioning for the bartender.
"A white Russian please." She said with contradictory grace.
Lorenzo got up a little sore, and drug the man outside. He came back in and sat beside the woman. She looked at him, took a sip of her drink, set it down, and sent her fist colliding with Lorenzo's cheek. It wasn't all that bad, but it made a point. She then went back to her drink casually.
"You could be a little more gracious." He said rubbing his face.
She set down her drink and turned to him.
"Grateful for what? Interfering or being pompous, arrogant, and chauvinistic?"
Her words lacked anger, but had a sardonic tone.
"I was just trying to help. I'm sorry if that's become a crime. I don't know if you've noticed, but not all women are as capable as you seem to be confidant you are."
He had to admit she was impressive. She wasn't big, but she could handle herself well. He wondered if she really could've taken that big guy. Stranger things have happened.
"You know what they say about assuming." She said indignantly, but the bitterness faded from her face. She stared at her drink for a second before sighing and looking up to Lorenzo.
"I apologize. If it had been most other woman, you would have been welcomed help, even a miracle, and it's good you'd actually bother, though I don't know where the true motivation lies. I appreciate the thought."
"See, that wasn't so hard. I'll take that as a thank you."
Raising her glass a bit in a sort of toast, she took a drink. Lorenzo was noticing for the first time what she looked like. She didn't fit in with the average female bar rat. She was wearing black boot cut pants along with a long sleeve, black, button up silk shirt, both of which were now slightly dusty from the floor. She had on heeled boots and several pieces of delicate silver jewelry. Her black hair was pulled up, and some strands had shaken loose and fell down to her face and neck, looking almost intentional. Her make up was light and he noticed her face was quite striking. She had high cheekbones, a small chin, full lips, proportional nose, and nice dark blue, almond eyes. Her pale skin made everything stand out. She sat up straight and held her glass elegantly with well-kept nails.
"I have to admit, you did seem to be holding your own. You must understand though, that I don't know how well you can defend yourself, and I didn't feel like taking my chances at the time."
It was mostly true. He was looking for a fight, but he knew there was no way he could let her get hurt. She was still a woman after all. She half smiled and nodded.
"I know. I just hate being seen like some helpless twig among tree trunks. I didn't spend years learning to protect myself to be treated like a child. This happens quite a lot. But I keep coming to these places. Maybe I have a death wish." She smirked. "I've never seen you here before. What's your name fearless protector?"
"Lorenzo. I usually don't go this far to drink, but I felt like coming here tonight. I'm sure it was fate with the intention of having me get beat on by you, so thanks for full-filing my destiny." His tone was humorous and he smiled at her. She smirked and held out her hand.
"Nice to meet you Lorenzo. I'm Phoenix, but I usually go by Niki."
He shook her hand. At first he thought she was a crude, classless, troublemaker, but now he saw that she was quite polished, despite her sarcastic humor.
"So tell me," she asked, "What are you running from? What are you trying to drown? I know there's something. I can see it in your eyes."
Apart from a few times, she never really looked at him. Her face was focused on her glass or off in space. Now she stared down at her drink, her tone casual and slightly detached.
"Now, now. I barely learned your name. We're not quite at life stories yet. Besides, a person's demons are intimate business." He kept him words light and smiled.
"Fair enough. Some people's problems are more personal than others. I've known some only escaping from dead pets."
"You hold many conversations with strange men?"
"No, but they all feel the need to tell me. Old, lonely men tell the saddest stories."
"Sounds about right. You live long enough the problems pile up. So tell me, why am I an exception then?"
She shrugged. "I suppose because you don't seem to fit in with these blemishes."
Lorenzo did notice his Italian suit was a little different than the worn t- shirts and faded jeans.
"You'll have to be careful. That could be construed as a compliment."
She chuckled and he smiled at her. "Just don't tell anyone, all right?"
Lorenzo smiled again and took a drink. "So what about you?"
"What about me?"
"What are you drowning?"
For a brief moment he saw something flash in her eyes. Fear? She took a drink as she tried to regain her calm expression.
"Like you said, a person's demons are intimate business." After letting out a deep breath she stared off in her own world for a while. "Isn't life capricious though?" Shaking her head she came back to reality.
"That it is." And boy was it, he thought. Lorenzo knew they both had been dealt some lousy hands to play. He wanted to know what caused the pain he saw in her eyes, but knew it wasn't his business.
As time passed, they talked some more, and drank some more. Slowly people were leaving the bar, going off to whatever else they had: families, girlfriends, apartments, pets, cars. By time the bar was beginning to shut down for the night, both of them were pretty hammered, laughing together like old friends. The bartender announced the place was closing, so Lorenzo and Niki finished their drinks, and helped each other walk out.
"Day people don't know what they're missing, sleeping through their nights. Psshht." Niki slurred sentimentally.
She stared into the darkness, illuminated by the large, orange moon. There were a couple cars left, but the place was pretty desolate, looking abandoned at the hour. Lorenzo spotted his car.
"Do you have a vehicle here?"
"No, no. I don't live too far, so I usually walk. Driving just wouldn't be smart anyway, as you can see."
She was swaying, obviously having trouble walking straight. She drank about as much as he did, but her size was her drinking handicap. He was impressed still. She really knew how to handle her liquor, just not that much apparently. Niki could tell Lorenzo was having trouble too.
"From the looks of it, I think I should call you a cab."
Lorenzo began to protest, but knew from even the short time he was around her, that arguing was futile. When he thought about it, it was probably a smart move anyway. Most nights he wouldn't care, but he decided to take her up on her offer.
"Sure. I think that would be a good idea, now that you mention it. I would appreciate that."
She smiled and rummaged through her purse, finally pulling out her cell phone. She turned it on and began to dial, but suddenly the screen went blank.
"Shit. I forgot to recharge the damn thing. I'm sorry about that."
"No, that's ok. I can drive. I've done it before, don't worry about it. I like to live on the edge anyway." he joked, though mostly meaning it.
"Oh no, I'm not having that on my conscience. I live a little ways over there," she motioned shakily, "You can use my phone. We'll drive there, and you can keep your car in my driveway for the night. It'll be safer that way."
He thought about it for a moment. It was better than driving, not to mention safer. Not in the frame of mind to really think much about anything, he agreed.
"Ok. That'll work. Come on, my car's over here."
They walked over and got in. She guided him to where she lived, which was only about a quarter mile away. They pulled into the driveway, and he followed her to the door, which she unlocked, motioning him in.
"Here, sit down. I'll go get the phone."
She disappeared down a hallway, not so gracefully. Lorenzo looked around at her home. The place was nice. Spacious, clean, and full of luxury. The living room he found himself in had an organ sitting next to a marble fireplace. The light came from an ornate hanging light, accompanied by some nice smaller ones on the various tables nearby. In front of him was a glass and mahogany coffee table, which had a carved tiger on top. There was also a large, full bookcase against the sidewall. An aquarium sat on top of the bookcase, probably a 70-gallon, he thought. On the walls were various paintings, mostly scenery, but some contained animals or other well crafted works. One was a violent storm with a dark sky, background lightening, pouring rain, bent trees, and agitated lake. It sat over the fireplace. Other touches added additional character to the room, such as figures, sculpture, and heavy, rich drapery. A woman after my own heart, he thought as Niki came back into the room with the phone.
"I was thinking about it, and you could stay here if you want. You wouldn't have to come back for your car or pay a cab." Pausing a moment to gage his acceptance, she then decided to add, "I even have a guest room you can use."
He had to admit, the offer was tempting. She reasoned it out well, and he was too lazy to argue. He might as well stay where he was. Why not?
"If it's too inconvenient, I wouldn't mind taking the cab."
"It's no trouble. The room's always made up, and you did help me out earlier." She admitted.
"Well I tried at least. I kinda wish I had someone to save me from you." He smiled.
"Yeah, yeah. That's what you get for meddling." After the mock warning stare she rubbed her arms together. "Hmm, I think I should start a fire. It's chilly in here, isn't it?"
He hadn't noticed it before, but she was right. Little goose bumps were starting to rise on his arms, despite the suit jacket. It was October after all. Niki went over to the fireplace and messed with it until a nice fire was roaring to life. He watched her attentively from his position on the couch. She was quite beautiful: slender and refined, strong and fearless, pained and defensive. Somehow she intrigued him appreciably, seeming to be an interesting, mysterious, complicated woman, a bit different that most. There was so much he wanted to know, so many questions he wanted to ask, but wasn't comfortable enough to.
Niki got up and smiled at him before walking into what appeared to be the kitchen. Lorenzo soaked up the welcome heat now filling the room, and allowed himself to relax some. A few minutes later Niki came back out carrying a silver tray with two cups and a silver kettle. She set it down on the coffee table, and poured each a steaming cup of brown liquid.
"I don't care what anyone says, but you can't relax in front of a fireplace without hot cocoa. A little childish, but necessary."
Lorenzo chuckled. "Yes, it does seem to work great together doesn't it? Besides, we don't need any more alcohol."
"Very true." She smiled as she brought the warm liquid to her lips.
For a while they sat and talked, mostly reliving happy moment from the past, both dodging any trace of the pains they have lived through. The moment was too bright and strangely happy for them to bring up what made them feel so down all the time. It was no time for pain.
When the cocoa was done, Niki took the cups and tray to the kitchen, and came back, sitting a good deal closer to Lorenzo than before. He enjoyed the feel of her body heat beside him, and subtly breathed in her faint, but rich perfume. Her being so near stirred something inside him, and it had been a long time since he'd felt anything close to it. Niki leaned against him and sighed. Somehow he could tell she wasn't usually so prone to affections like this.
"Id usually be the last to admit it, but I actually really enjoyed spending time with you tonight. I'm not very big on socializing."
"Oh really? I couldn't tell when you were kicking my ass at the bar."
She laughed. "Yeah, I guess I'm good at hiding it. Nevertheless, this is pretty rare."
"I know what you mean," he added hesitantly, "I hardly seem to leave my house much these days. Except to go out drinking of course. It's been awhile since I've actually talked to someone. I bet you feel honored now, Xena." He smirked at her.
She gave him a "haha, really funny" look, but then softened it as their gaze lengthened. Realizing she was staring, Niki quickly looked away, smiling shyly and trying her best to cover her gawking.
What a beautiful smile, Lorenzo thought to himself. He stopped to notice how amazing it was this close up. It surprised him how a gorgeous woman like herself could end up so seemingly alone, cut off from a world she could just as easily rule. As he continued to gaze, the urge to touch her was growing. As she looked back up at him with those soft sapphire eyes, he knew he couldn't keep it inside any longer. Quickly he leaned forward and surprised her by kissing her tentatively. Lorenzo just knew she would slap him or worse, and at the very least break away and scold him. The shocking part was when she didn't. She actually kissed him back. Leaving the nervousness behind, he lowered himself over her on the couch as the kiss deepened. His passion was eating at him, and everything working automatically. Then he remembered something; she was drunk. He was almost certain she wouldn't be this willing sober. Not with what he knew of her personality already. Summoning all his strength, he broke away. Even with his self-destructive path, he knew this would be too immoral, even for him.
"What's wrong? Did I do something?"
Her eyes were a little frightened and her tone was apprehensive. Lorenzo stood up to better stifle his desires.
"No, you didn't do anything. I just can't let this happen, I'm sorry."
"Why?"
"You're drunk my dear. I doubt you would approve of this in the morning."
Sadly she nodded and sat back timidly on the couch.
"I understand." She said as she handed him the phone.
He took it, looking at her remorsefully. He dialed for a cab and told the man the address. Not knowing what to say, he sat down in a chair across from her. They sat in awkward silence for a moment before she spoke up.
"What if I want you to? Doesn't that have any influence in this? God, it's been way too long. I don't know why, but something about you has been drawing me in all night. I haven't felt this way in ages, and it seems like a waste to just get it go because I happen to be a little tipsy."
Her eyes were pleading and Lorenzo wanted so much to just give in, to forget morality and responsibility and blame it all on alcohol. Hell, maybe she wouldn't even care when she sobered up. But he couldn't. He knew he had to let it stop, even though it was the only think that had made him feel so alive.
"You're more than a little tipsy I'm afraid. You'll thank me later, I can almost promise. I'm sure you deserve much better than that."
Despite her obvious disappointment, Niki smiled, flattered by his caring. Rejection was hard to take, but it seemed to be for good reasons, even though she didn"t care about them at the moment.
"I'll just have to take your word for it." She let out a breath. "It would have probably been something I would have wanted to remember anyway."
Playfully she smiled at him and he smiled back, happy she agreed. Lorenzo wasn't sure he could have held out much longer if she decided to argue more.
Soon they heard a car pull into the driveway.
"I suppose I should be going. I can't thank you enough for your hospitality and your company."
"Your welcome. I was an odd pleasure meeting you. I really appreciated tonight."
"I did too. Take care Niki."
"You too Lorenzo."
They shared a look before he went out to the waiting car. As it drove him home, his mind was still completely focused on her. He couldn't remember the last time he went home with an event so engrained in his mind. To top it off, the feelings and visions were positive. That was a new one.
Once home he collapsed onto his bed, still thinking of her as he quickly drifted off. He couldn't wait to get his car back the next day. For once he actually fell asleep and rested peacefully, without his demons tearing at his rest.
Lorenzo woke up to pitch black. The same old dark, empty room he woke up to every time. Sighing he reached over and turned on his bedside light. His watch told him it was 5 pm, but it was no different to him then 5 am. All the hours seemed to blur together, but he stopped caring a long time ago. He hadn't planned on showering, but when he got up and saw he had opened some wound on his side, Lorenzo decided to bathe. The water was cool and fresh and rather enjoyable. He stayed there for some time, soaking and relaxing. "If only I could get back to being the man I was." He thought longingly. His mind always drifted to "if only" when "what if" wasn't around.
That evening he decided to go to Jack's, an old bar he used to frequent. It was a little far, so he hadn't been there in a while. Hopping in his car, Lorenzo put on the radio as he drove off.
We can't go back again, There's no use giving in. And there's no way to know What might've been.
"Damn country." He thought, changing the station. His fondness for country music wasn't the best choice. Classical would have to do, not that he minded. One thing that didn't diminish was his love for music. It was his only other escape. On nights where his eyes were swollen nearly shut and it hurt to do anything, it never hurt to listen. As his mind drifted off, set into motion by that Lonestar chorus, he decided this was going to be one of those nights he went home bleeding.
Once in the bar, he sat down and ordered vodka. It had been his favorite since the year he spent in Russia hiding from enemies. It was also the year he kicked his coke habit. He almost wished he hadn't nowadays. The bar was bustling with life, only not the kind most people wanted to be around. Most would go out of their way to avoid this gathering of low lives, but not Lorenzo. This was his home away from home. Somehow he still felt superior to all these social outcasts, but something told him it couldn't be by much. It wasn't very late yet, so the atmosphere was mildly pleasant, considering. A lot of the visitors were just taking a break from life and the family, or hanging out with their buddies over a stiff drink. It was too soon for the miserable to take over. Lorenzo was a little early, but had nothing to keep him occupied elsewhere, so he began his night of drinking. A few shots later, his sophistication was fading away. It wouldn't be long until he'd be ready to receive a good old-fashioned ass kicking. Was this all he had to look forward to these days? What a sad state to have come to.
Abruptly his thoughts were interrupted by some rather loud arguing. A large, bulky man who just screamed white trash was yelling at a tiny, pale brunette. A lover's squabble, Lorenzo was sure, turning his attention back to his glass. It wasn't his concern, and he really couldn't care less. Soon the voices dropped and the bar was calm once more. Lorenzo's inhibitions were slowly leaving him, and the blurred mess he had been calling life for months was returning. Familiar, but far from comforting. Soon, he kept telling himself. His angry days were more enjoyable, but these days had a purging affect. In his head, he was developing a plan to start a fight. Lorenzo discovered there was an art to it. Wrong person or wrong approach could lead to no fight, a call to the police, or any number of unwanted things. As he was laying out his idea, there again came yelling. The same two people he saw before were starting up again. Aggravated, he would have ignored it like last time, but it was closer now.
"I told you the first time, I don't care what you want, I'm not a whore and I'm not going home with you. I don't even know you!"
"Shut up! You're gonna do exactly what I say, got it?"
"And why the hell would I do that primate?"
The man glared fiercely at the unafraid woman.
"Because I'm bigger 'en you an' there ain't nothing gonna stop me, so shut the hell up skank."
Usually a bar would have incidents like this taken care of, but this one was a shady place owned and operated by some apathetic criminals. They just sold the booze, and even welcomed the entertainment. The other people there drinking couldn't care less either, or were too drunk to know what was going on. Lorenzo wasn't quite there yet. He figured he'd use this as his opportunity to pick a fight. And this guy looked like he could deal out a serious beating.
"You're not going to make me do anything, understand?"
The woman was obviously battle ready, but Lorenzo was shocked to see not even an ounce of fear. The woman stood up to this man like he was a child. She wasn't even drunk. Probably just brainless, he thought.
"And what could you do cunt?"
"Don't tempt me."
"Oh come on tough girl. Let me see what you got"
He didn't have to wait long either. The small woman retracted her arm and sung at the man with astonishing force. The man went reeling. Lorenzo was shocked. That was quite a shot, especially from someone so petite. The man slowly got up from the table he was sprawled out on. When putting his hand to his face, blood greeted him.
"You worthless little bitch!" he snarled.
He lunged at the woman who seemed ready and waiting. Lorenzo knew she had no chance, no matter how tough she was. He quickly got up and stopped the man in his tracks.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you." He threatened coldly.
"What the hell do you want? This doesn't concern you."
"What a big man you are, going after a woman."
"I don't need a lecture, the whore hit me, an' she's gonna pay, now move before I make you."
The woman stepped forward and glared at both men.
"I don't know who either of you think you are. Both of you leave me the hell alone. And you," she said looking at Lorenzo, "I don't need any help from you or anyone else."
She was seething at this point, her eyes ablaze. She stared holes into Lorenzo, actually startling him with her ferocity.
"You should feel lucky. I don't care how strong you think you are, you can't win, so quit while you're ahead. I'm sure your manicurist wouldn't want you to break a nail."
"Excuse me Mr. Righteous? You think I'd need your help? That would be like going to war wielding a pointy stick. I don't need you, especially with this piece of overgrown trash."
Enraged, the man suddenly pushed Lorenzo to the side, moving faster than expected.
"I'll show you girl. Someone needs to put you in your place."
He swung at her and she ducked away, punching him in the abdomen. He doubled over, but then swung again. She blocked and went to hit again, but he caught her arm and smashed his elbow into her face, sending her to the floor. Lorenzo decided to act. The self-pity day just turned into an angry one. No matter how he felt about his life, he could never allow a man to hit a woman. Even if she was asking for it. He grabbed the guy and head butted him, then brought his knee up, opening a gash over the man's eyebrow. As the guy yelled in pain, Lorenzo punched him in the face and was about to give him a gut shot when all of a sudden he was falling. The woman had tripped both of them with one good sweep of her leg. She got up quickly, giving Lorenzo a dirty look before moving over to the man, still in pain. She kicked him in the side a couple times, making sure he stayed down. Once satisfied she stopped and went back to sit at the bar, motioning for the bartender.
"A white Russian please." She said with contradictory grace.
Lorenzo got up a little sore, and drug the man outside. He came back in and sat beside the woman. She looked at him, took a sip of her drink, set it down, and sent her fist colliding with Lorenzo's cheek. It wasn't all that bad, but it made a point. She then went back to her drink casually.
"You could be a little more gracious." He said rubbing his face.
She set down her drink and turned to him.
"Grateful for what? Interfering or being pompous, arrogant, and chauvinistic?"
Her words lacked anger, but had a sardonic tone.
"I was just trying to help. I'm sorry if that's become a crime. I don't know if you've noticed, but not all women are as capable as you seem to be confidant you are."
He had to admit she was impressive. She wasn't big, but she could handle herself well. He wondered if she really could've taken that big guy. Stranger things have happened.
"You know what they say about assuming." She said indignantly, but the bitterness faded from her face. She stared at her drink for a second before sighing and looking up to Lorenzo.
"I apologize. If it had been most other woman, you would have been welcomed help, even a miracle, and it's good you'd actually bother, though I don't know where the true motivation lies. I appreciate the thought."
"See, that wasn't so hard. I'll take that as a thank you."
Raising her glass a bit in a sort of toast, she took a drink. Lorenzo was noticing for the first time what she looked like. She didn't fit in with the average female bar rat. She was wearing black boot cut pants along with a long sleeve, black, button up silk shirt, both of which were now slightly dusty from the floor. She had on heeled boots and several pieces of delicate silver jewelry. Her black hair was pulled up, and some strands had shaken loose and fell down to her face and neck, looking almost intentional. Her make up was light and he noticed her face was quite striking. She had high cheekbones, a small chin, full lips, proportional nose, and nice dark blue, almond eyes. Her pale skin made everything stand out. She sat up straight and held her glass elegantly with well-kept nails.
"I have to admit, you did seem to be holding your own. You must understand though, that I don't know how well you can defend yourself, and I didn't feel like taking my chances at the time."
It was mostly true. He was looking for a fight, but he knew there was no way he could let her get hurt. She was still a woman after all. She half smiled and nodded.
"I know. I just hate being seen like some helpless twig among tree trunks. I didn't spend years learning to protect myself to be treated like a child. This happens quite a lot. But I keep coming to these places. Maybe I have a death wish." She smirked. "I've never seen you here before. What's your name fearless protector?"
"Lorenzo. I usually don't go this far to drink, but I felt like coming here tonight. I'm sure it was fate with the intention of having me get beat on by you, so thanks for full-filing my destiny." His tone was humorous and he smiled at her. She smirked and held out her hand.
"Nice to meet you Lorenzo. I'm Phoenix, but I usually go by Niki."
He shook her hand. At first he thought she was a crude, classless, troublemaker, but now he saw that she was quite polished, despite her sarcastic humor.
"So tell me," she asked, "What are you running from? What are you trying to drown? I know there's something. I can see it in your eyes."
Apart from a few times, she never really looked at him. Her face was focused on her glass or off in space. Now she stared down at her drink, her tone casual and slightly detached.
"Now, now. I barely learned your name. We're not quite at life stories yet. Besides, a person's demons are intimate business." He kept him words light and smiled.
"Fair enough. Some people's problems are more personal than others. I've known some only escaping from dead pets."
"You hold many conversations with strange men?"
"No, but they all feel the need to tell me. Old, lonely men tell the saddest stories."
"Sounds about right. You live long enough the problems pile up. So tell me, why am I an exception then?"
She shrugged. "I suppose because you don't seem to fit in with these blemishes."
Lorenzo did notice his Italian suit was a little different than the worn t- shirts and faded jeans.
"You'll have to be careful. That could be construed as a compliment."
She chuckled and he smiled at her. "Just don't tell anyone, all right?"
Lorenzo smiled again and took a drink. "So what about you?"
"What about me?"
"What are you drowning?"
For a brief moment he saw something flash in her eyes. Fear? She took a drink as she tried to regain her calm expression.
"Like you said, a person's demons are intimate business." After letting out a deep breath she stared off in her own world for a while. "Isn't life capricious though?" Shaking her head she came back to reality.
"That it is." And boy was it, he thought. Lorenzo knew they both had been dealt some lousy hands to play. He wanted to know what caused the pain he saw in her eyes, but knew it wasn't his business.
As time passed, they talked some more, and drank some more. Slowly people were leaving the bar, going off to whatever else they had: families, girlfriends, apartments, pets, cars. By time the bar was beginning to shut down for the night, both of them were pretty hammered, laughing together like old friends. The bartender announced the place was closing, so Lorenzo and Niki finished their drinks, and helped each other walk out.
"Day people don't know what they're missing, sleeping through their nights. Psshht." Niki slurred sentimentally.
She stared into the darkness, illuminated by the large, orange moon. There were a couple cars left, but the place was pretty desolate, looking abandoned at the hour. Lorenzo spotted his car.
"Do you have a vehicle here?"
"No, no. I don't live too far, so I usually walk. Driving just wouldn't be smart anyway, as you can see."
She was swaying, obviously having trouble walking straight. She drank about as much as he did, but her size was her drinking handicap. He was impressed still. She really knew how to handle her liquor, just not that much apparently. Niki could tell Lorenzo was having trouble too.
"From the looks of it, I think I should call you a cab."
Lorenzo began to protest, but knew from even the short time he was around her, that arguing was futile. When he thought about it, it was probably a smart move anyway. Most nights he wouldn't care, but he decided to take her up on her offer.
"Sure. I think that would be a good idea, now that you mention it. I would appreciate that."
She smiled and rummaged through her purse, finally pulling out her cell phone. She turned it on and began to dial, but suddenly the screen went blank.
"Shit. I forgot to recharge the damn thing. I'm sorry about that."
"No, that's ok. I can drive. I've done it before, don't worry about it. I like to live on the edge anyway." he joked, though mostly meaning it.
"Oh no, I'm not having that on my conscience. I live a little ways over there," she motioned shakily, "You can use my phone. We'll drive there, and you can keep your car in my driveway for the night. It'll be safer that way."
He thought about it for a moment. It was better than driving, not to mention safer. Not in the frame of mind to really think much about anything, he agreed.
"Ok. That'll work. Come on, my car's over here."
They walked over and got in. She guided him to where she lived, which was only about a quarter mile away. They pulled into the driveway, and he followed her to the door, which she unlocked, motioning him in.
"Here, sit down. I'll go get the phone."
She disappeared down a hallway, not so gracefully. Lorenzo looked around at her home. The place was nice. Spacious, clean, and full of luxury. The living room he found himself in had an organ sitting next to a marble fireplace. The light came from an ornate hanging light, accompanied by some nice smaller ones on the various tables nearby. In front of him was a glass and mahogany coffee table, which had a carved tiger on top. There was also a large, full bookcase against the sidewall. An aquarium sat on top of the bookcase, probably a 70-gallon, he thought. On the walls were various paintings, mostly scenery, but some contained animals or other well crafted works. One was a violent storm with a dark sky, background lightening, pouring rain, bent trees, and agitated lake. It sat over the fireplace. Other touches added additional character to the room, such as figures, sculpture, and heavy, rich drapery. A woman after my own heart, he thought as Niki came back into the room with the phone.
"I was thinking about it, and you could stay here if you want. You wouldn't have to come back for your car or pay a cab." Pausing a moment to gage his acceptance, she then decided to add, "I even have a guest room you can use."
He had to admit, the offer was tempting. She reasoned it out well, and he was too lazy to argue. He might as well stay where he was. Why not?
"If it's too inconvenient, I wouldn't mind taking the cab."
"It's no trouble. The room's always made up, and you did help me out earlier." She admitted.
"Well I tried at least. I kinda wish I had someone to save me from you." He smiled.
"Yeah, yeah. That's what you get for meddling." After the mock warning stare she rubbed her arms together. "Hmm, I think I should start a fire. It's chilly in here, isn't it?"
He hadn't noticed it before, but she was right. Little goose bumps were starting to rise on his arms, despite the suit jacket. It was October after all. Niki went over to the fireplace and messed with it until a nice fire was roaring to life. He watched her attentively from his position on the couch. She was quite beautiful: slender and refined, strong and fearless, pained and defensive. Somehow she intrigued him appreciably, seeming to be an interesting, mysterious, complicated woman, a bit different that most. There was so much he wanted to know, so many questions he wanted to ask, but wasn't comfortable enough to.
Niki got up and smiled at him before walking into what appeared to be the kitchen. Lorenzo soaked up the welcome heat now filling the room, and allowed himself to relax some. A few minutes later Niki came back out carrying a silver tray with two cups and a silver kettle. She set it down on the coffee table, and poured each a steaming cup of brown liquid.
"I don't care what anyone says, but you can't relax in front of a fireplace without hot cocoa. A little childish, but necessary."
Lorenzo chuckled. "Yes, it does seem to work great together doesn't it? Besides, we don't need any more alcohol."
"Very true." She smiled as she brought the warm liquid to her lips.
For a while they sat and talked, mostly reliving happy moment from the past, both dodging any trace of the pains they have lived through. The moment was too bright and strangely happy for them to bring up what made them feel so down all the time. It was no time for pain.
When the cocoa was done, Niki took the cups and tray to the kitchen, and came back, sitting a good deal closer to Lorenzo than before. He enjoyed the feel of her body heat beside him, and subtly breathed in her faint, but rich perfume. Her being so near stirred something inside him, and it had been a long time since he'd felt anything close to it. Niki leaned against him and sighed. Somehow he could tell she wasn't usually so prone to affections like this.
"Id usually be the last to admit it, but I actually really enjoyed spending time with you tonight. I'm not very big on socializing."
"Oh really? I couldn't tell when you were kicking my ass at the bar."
She laughed. "Yeah, I guess I'm good at hiding it. Nevertheless, this is pretty rare."
"I know what you mean," he added hesitantly, "I hardly seem to leave my house much these days. Except to go out drinking of course. It's been awhile since I've actually talked to someone. I bet you feel honored now, Xena." He smirked at her.
She gave him a "haha, really funny" look, but then softened it as their gaze lengthened. Realizing she was staring, Niki quickly looked away, smiling shyly and trying her best to cover her gawking.
What a beautiful smile, Lorenzo thought to himself. He stopped to notice how amazing it was this close up. It surprised him how a gorgeous woman like herself could end up so seemingly alone, cut off from a world she could just as easily rule. As he continued to gaze, the urge to touch her was growing. As she looked back up at him with those soft sapphire eyes, he knew he couldn't keep it inside any longer. Quickly he leaned forward and surprised her by kissing her tentatively. Lorenzo just knew she would slap him or worse, and at the very least break away and scold him. The shocking part was when she didn't. She actually kissed him back. Leaving the nervousness behind, he lowered himself over her on the couch as the kiss deepened. His passion was eating at him, and everything working automatically. Then he remembered something; she was drunk. He was almost certain she wouldn't be this willing sober. Not with what he knew of her personality already. Summoning all his strength, he broke away. Even with his self-destructive path, he knew this would be too immoral, even for him.
"What's wrong? Did I do something?"
Her eyes were a little frightened and her tone was apprehensive. Lorenzo stood up to better stifle his desires.
"No, you didn't do anything. I just can't let this happen, I'm sorry."
"Why?"
"You're drunk my dear. I doubt you would approve of this in the morning."
Sadly she nodded and sat back timidly on the couch.
"I understand." She said as she handed him the phone.
He took it, looking at her remorsefully. He dialed for a cab and told the man the address. Not knowing what to say, he sat down in a chair across from her. They sat in awkward silence for a moment before she spoke up.
"What if I want you to? Doesn't that have any influence in this? God, it's been way too long. I don't know why, but something about you has been drawing me in all night. I haven't felt this way in ages, and it seems like a waste to just get it go because I happen to be a little tipsy."
Her eyes were pleading and Lorenzo wanted so much to just give in, to forget morality and responsibility and blame it all on alcohol. Hell, maybe she wouldn't even care when she sobered up. But he couldn't. He knew he had to let it stop, even though it was the only think that had made him feel so alive.
"You're more than a little tipsy I'm afraid. You'll thank me later, I can almost promise. I'm sure you deserve much better than that."
Despite her obvious disappointment, Niki smiled, flattered by his caring. Rejection was hard to take, but it seemed to be for good reasons, even though she didn"t care about them at the moment.
"I'll just have to take your word for it." She let out a breath. "It would have probably been something I would have wanted to remember anyway."
Playfully she smiled at him and he smiled back, happy she agreed. Lorenzo wasn't sure he could have held out much longer if she decided to argue more.
Soon they heard a car pull into the driveway.
"I suppose I should be going. I can't thank you enough for your hospitality and your company."
"Your welcome. I was an odd pleasure meeting you. I really appreciated tonight."
"I did too. Take care Niki."
"You too Lorenzo."
They shared a look before he went out to the waiting car. As it drove him home, his mind was still completely focused on her. He couldn't remember the last time he went home with an event so engrained in his mind. To top it off, the feelings and visions were positive. That was a new one.
Once home he collapsed onto his bed, still thinking of her as he quickly drifted off. He couldn't wait to get his car back the next day. For once he actually fell asleep and rested peacefully, without his demons tearing at his rest.