Chapter 4

Jude woke up with a pounding headache and feeling sick to her stomach. She opened her eyes and tried to take in her surroundings. It took her a moment to realize she was on the couch in her sister's apartment. She slowly sat up and for the first time registered that someone else was in the room with her. She studied the sleeping figure, when it clicked that she knew this person.

"He took care of you all night." Sadie whispered to her sister as she motioned for her to join her in the kitchen. Sadie poured and handed Jude a cup of coffee.

"What happened last night Sades?" Jude asked sipping the hot but much welcomed caffeine.

"Well you got slipped a date-rape drug and Tommy found you and pulled that jackass Matt off of you as he was trying to make his move. You passed out. Tommy called me to let me know what was going on but I had had a little too much to drink to be able to take care of you so Tommy and Kwest drove us here. I passed out pretty quickly in my bed but I guess Tommy was worried about you so he stayed up and made sure you were ok. I guess you woke up around 4 this morning really sick and he took care of you. I woke up around then hearing the noise and came out just as he was laying you back down on the coach."

"Well I make a great first impression on your friends don't I Sades. I'm really sorry I caused you guys so much trouble. I can't believe he stayed here all night."

"Hey don't worry about it Jude. It wasn't your fault that some perv spiked your drink. And like I said I was out of it, Tommy did everything. He's a sweetie though. I'm sure he's just happy you're okay." Sadie finished and smiled at her sister who gave a small grin back.

"She's right you know. I'm happy you're okay. Are you feeling any better?" Tommy asked coming into the kitchen behind Jude. He grabbed a coffee mug and poured himself a much needed cup. Tommy looked at her and took a sip of his coffee.

Jude was afraid to make eye contact with the man who had saved her life and seen her at her worst. Sadie mentioned something about a shower and left the two alone. Jude gazed to the floor as she responded. "I've got a bit of a headache and am a little woozy, but I think I'll survive. Thanks to you of course. Seriously, thank you. I wish I could do something to repay you for all you've done." Jude continued to apologize as she busied herself with the dishes in the sink trying to avoid having to look him in the eye.

Tommy noticed her avoiding him. He took another sip of his coffee and walked over to her. He stood next to her at the sink counter and she slowly turned towards him. Still looking down she said "thank you" again. He smiled at her shyness and put a finger under her chin, forcing her to look at him. "Jude, don't feel bad about last night. I'm just happy I was able to help. You made it through the night and you seem to be doing much better this morning. That alone is good news to me." He stared into her eyes and smiled.

Deciding to lighten the serious mood Jude spoke. "So I guess you're like my night in shining armor, eh?" Now it was Tommy's turn to act shy as he slightly blushed and looked to his feet. "I insist you at least let me take you out for dinner one night. It's the least I can do. Please?" She asked, her eyes pleading towards his.

"You drive a hard bargain girl, but I'm in."

"Great! Sunday night?"

"It's a date. I'm gonna head back to my apartment. Feel better girl." And with that he grabbed his coat and left. Jude sat back down on the couch and thought to herself, 'did he just say date?'