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Again this would be a horrid mess if not for the one, the only, Clglover (round of applause everyone for my awsome beta)

Unexpected

Chapter 4

The Dragon Lounge

I was absolutely exhausted. Putting together a New York Fashion Show required me to replicate myself five times to get it all done, but it was totally worth it. Foreseen Fashion was a hit for the fall premier line. I was up against my fashion idols but Foreseen shined through; all its own. Business cards were flying all over the place at the after party the night following the runway show. My heart stopped when I not only met her buyer, but Kim Kardashian herself. It was a dream come true. My hard work and dedication had paid off. Now, my last night in New York and fully rested, it was time to have a little fun.

I hadn't been out to a club in over a month. I told everyone I was just working on the Fall line for the fashion show but I knew that was only a half truth. I was slowly coming out of the self -inflicted heart ache I had experienced from one chocolate eyed beauty, but I wasn't really ready to take the chances on running into her at some club. Now, thousands of miles away for her, and the chances of seeing her, I was ready to dance, drink, and dance some more! I owed it to my best friend, for watching me fall into my depression, as much as I owed it to myself.

Jasper worried about me immensely over the last month; watching me like a hawk. He was constantly making sure I didn't dive too far over the edge of insanity, depression, and self loathing. I was able to put up a strong front for him, but when I stepped across the threshold of my condo, the true emotion came pouring out. Behind the solitude of my lonely apartment, I let the hurt boil over the surface and let the edges of my ragged heartache burn freely. I knew that crying was good for the soul but I was forcing myself to feel the burn each and every night, just to hold on to something connected to her. I knew that wasn't healthy and the only other worry I had besides never being loved by Isabella, was that it would begin to pull me from my work, effecting the one untainted dream in my life.

I began to bring more and more of my work home, pushing my self harder into my designs rather than continuing to dig the black hole that was spreading across my heart. I realized that if I concentrated on patterns, I wouldn't think about the feel of her skin. I couldn't completely fool myself though. It didn't escape mine, nor Jasper's notice that I had utilized a lot of dark warm browns in my fall collection. He only asked me about it once, not out right stating the connection he made from the chosen hue. I brushed it off, saying brown was the new purple. Again, it was only a half truth.

I walked down the hall and on to the elevator of the Volturi Hotel. The hotel was owned and operated by my good friends Aro, Caius, and Marcus Volturi. The entire building was decorated in various shades of gold and red. The cast of the colors played against the florescent lights, leaving every hall with a very intimate glow, like that you would find between two lovers at a candle light dinner. Very romantic and subtle.

I rode the elevator down to Jasper's second floor room and lightly rapped on door number seventy-seven.

"I'm almost ready, Alice," Jasper called as he hurryingly opened the door. Just as he was about to walk away he gasped at the sight before him. "Wow," he said laying his right hand over his chest, "you look delicious."

"Well, I do, don't I?" I danced into Jasper's room twirling around, forcing the double layer of the hanging fabric to flow outwards. The royal blue strapless design was a Foreseen original. The ensemble was followed up with silver peep toe stilettos that matched my Prada clutch.

"Are you trying to catch someone's eye tonight?" Jasper wore black straight leg jeans with black and white cowboy boots. His long sleeved button down shirt was also black with a dazzlingly detailed dragon that covered the entire left side of the shirt. He left the top three buttons undone letting his bare chest show through. The outfit was completed with a Texas size belt buckle that read "Ride 'Em."

"Oh, Jazz, stop! You know I'm not." I shot at him as I slid into his strong arms.

"Well, than you better get upstairs and change!"

"You should talk. What about you sexy man?" I ran my fingers through his already tossed blond curls.

"Well for your information nosey, I am actually meeting with the photographer from your show." Jasper suddenly looked nervous as he adjusted his cuffs.

"Jacob? You have a date with Jacob?" Jasper looked as if to say it wasn't a big deal. "Wow, Jazz. Look at you!"

"Oh, please stop, I'm nervous enough." I could tell he was serious. He hadn't been on a date since the whole Edward fiasco. Jasper deserved this carefree night out as much as I did.

"Well come on Cowboy. Let's not keep your hot Indian man waiting," I pulled Jasper out of his door. I was anxious to get the night started. I needed a drink, I wanted to dance and cut loose.
Above all of that, I knew I still needed to forget.

~BxA~

Before we got to New York, our friend Carlisle told us we had to check out a spot called The Dragon Lounge. Jasper was appropriately dressed. Carlisle did however warn us that it was difficult to get in (he couldn't even use his connects to get us on the elusive list).

"Name?" the bulky bouncers, shouted as if we weren't three feet in front of him on a very quiet street. "Are you on the list?"

Jasper and I couldn't help but lightly chuckle. In his best flirtatious southern drawl he said, "Yes darlin', Jasper Whitlock and Alice Brandon."

I couldn't help but giggle as the doorman began to search the list for our common names.

"Yes, Miss Brandon. Right this way." The bulky body builder spoke in an almost hostess' voice as he stepped to the side.

Jasper and I looked at each other questioning as the realization hit us that the bouncer wasn't joking. We cautiously approached the flaming red door, waiting on the embarrassing moment of the bouncer, and his steroid induced muscles, forcibly removing us from the establishment. Suffices to say that never took place.

"Wow! You are officially an 'it,'" Jasper whispered in my ear as we walked into the foyer of the club. I had no clue who could have possibly put my name on "The List" but I was feeling very important.

We emerged out of the covered foyer and into a two story open view dance club. To the right was a long bar decorated in red glass panels. The bartenders all wore blood red button downs with elaborate black dragons. The details on the shirts were even more than Jasper's. The second level was openly viewable from the bottom, with two more drink stations, smaller but similar to the red beauty upon first entry. The two additional stations were each donned respectively in yellow and orange glass.

"Holy fuck," Jasper gasped.

"I know right. This is . . ." There were no words to describe how "it" this place was.

We made our way to the second level and ordered our first round of drinks. It was obvious the bartender was checking Jasper out but Jasper was too distracted, blissfully unaware and looking for Jacob to notice.

After one hour, two glasses of wine, and a lot of dancing and laughing, Jasper was met by an equally nervous Jacob. We assumed our seats in the middle of the table area as we all fell into easy conversation. After a while it became conversation for two rather than three. I knew the new couple before me was not trying to be rude so I quietly stood and walked away from the private touches and whispers they shared. When I turned around I saw Jasper's face fall slightly at my retreat. I shot him thumbs up and my biggest smile to ease his unnecessary guilt.

I made my way back down stairs to the red bar. The dance floor was covered in gorgeous people moving seductively to the beat of the drumming music. As the speakers pumped out streams of the sound, I could feel the vibrations through the air. The hard base line lulled at your body forcing you to move. I had assumed The Dragon Lounge was a gay club but as I watched, I saw it was just an open club. Easy. Everyone enjoyed a good time.

I leaned against the dark wood top of the red bar unsuccessfully trying to get the bartenders attention. I nearly fail over the opposite edge as I all but grabbed one of the elusive bartenders. Slippery assholes they were.

"Really? Who do I have to fuck to get a drink?" I mused without realizing the sounds were coming out of my mouth. I didn't pay attention to the laugh behind me until I heard her speak.

The velvety voice was music to my ears and a tear to my heart. I was too hesitant to turn around, sure my phantom tear would betray me. Such a powerful response she elected in me, but the shaken breaths I tried to pull in was not holding it back. I looked from side to side, visualizing my possible escape route. Could I calmly move away and pretend as if she hadn't just entered into my bubble successfully reigniting the flames of my soul? It was no use; the club was growing more and more crowded. I was trapped on all sides. The only way out was to turn around and walk the way I came over but by the feel of the heat creeping up my neck, she was directly behind me and I wouldn't be able to turn without seeing her.

"Cranberry and Vodka and a Sparkling Nuevo," the known voice said.

My attitude quickly changed to annoyed as I realized the bartender was filling her request.
The request I had attempt for several moments were plausible once her lips uttered them. Caught up in my bitterness I turned to face her. I quickly tried to correct my error but not before I saw her smile fall. Was she ashamed to see me? What the hell was she doing in New York?

"Hello, Alice," she lowly said as she lightly pressed into my small frame. I wasn't sure if she moved intentionally or if the over crowded drink station area had began pushing us closer together. The reason why it happened wasn't as important to me as how I felt in that moment.
Immediately a surge of electricity pulse through me. One touch and every atom in my body were alive; alert for her. I wanted to feel the power again that made me so short of breath, that I could feel echo through my veins. Maybe it was the time apart; maybe it was all the pain and desire I allowed myself to feel for her when I laid alone at night, but whatever it was the current felt so much stronger than I had remembered. I was hooked all over again. I slowly drew in an unsteady breath before turning to face my desire.

Locking eyes with the seductive beauty undid my light work of settling my nerves. Her chocolate orbs completely captivating me.

"Hi," I let out the sigh that was held deep in my chest. Yet again she stole my breath away.

~BxA~

The best part of my job with Static was when the owner, Garrett, opened up a new location. I would get a week stay in some fabulous locale all expenses paid. My job was to train the operators of the new establishment on how the bar system worked and teach them all the signature drinks. It really was easy work, but maybe that was because I loved my job so damn much. Since being with Static, in three years I had already been to Las Angeles and Miami. When Garrett said this time I was headed to "The Big Apple," my bags were packed before he could give me the trip details.

Of course it wasn't all work, and Garrett knew that. I would hit any hot spot I heard through the grapevine and the new "it" bar as soon as the work came to an end for me.

Garrett and I joked that this part of the trip was my recon mission, checking out the competition. With only one night to indulge, I only hit the best of the best; for New York that was apparently The Dragon Lounge.

I hadn't really done much night life since my run in with the faux Alice. Other than doing my face-to-face hours at Static I stayed out of the scene. No recon missions back home in Texas for me. Rosalie for once never questioned me on that last time out, and I was not offering up information. I didn't fall completely back into my catatonic state, but something was still off obviously. It was as if the one night with my true Alice was my fist time living and the rest of this were a pointless charades.

That night I left my sushi bar with enough food to feed a small party. As I sat in my living room engorging myself on Volcano Rolls, I decided not to die along side my heart. My brain and my body, they all still lived on, and I had to keep pushing for them. I even tried to see other people, but gave up on that almost immediately when I started comparing physical feature between them and the one I really wanted to be with. Two women did actually make it to my hotel room. Both times I had to fake an orgasm, which was not acceptable in my book. I was too easy, ready to cum and cum again, under any other circumstance. It proved all the more that something in me still was not the same as before I was so heavily enticed by my pixie. I was pretty sure the second woman knew it was all a hoax but she didn't say anything to me. I didn't even try and stop her, or see her to the door, as she quickly redressed and left me alone. In another empty hotel room. The feelings brought back the memories of that next morning and another tear was shed for her.

Tonight I had no plans to hook up. The Dragon Lounge was simply about having a good time with my best friend at a hot club.

Being the mixologist to one of the hottest clubs across America pretty much got you on every door list there was. How the hell did they knew I was coming was beyond me.

There was a secret society beyond the velvet rope that knew the who's who and they made it their priority to stay on top of it. That was my theory anyway. Not that I really needed to be on any list whenever Rosalie was walking in the door with me. With her long blond hair, hazel eyes, full lips, and hour glass body, she could get in any spot she wanted to with the work of a single wink. Rosalie looked like a who's who. I wondered if the club illuminati knew she was no way tied to the world of night clubs, modeling, fashion, or movies. Of course they knew; it was their job to know.

Walking through the low ceiling foyer of the club made me a little skeptical to the rumors that were buzzing about the famous night spot. Rosalie gave me an eye that suggested that she was having the same doubts. As we stepped out the claustrophobia inducing entrance our expectations were corrected and then exceeded. The modest outside and alarming entrance was a stark contrast to the wide open club before us now.

"Wow," we uttered in unison as our eyes darted between the brightly lit bars, heavy dance floor, and vibrant dragon décor.

We made our way up to the top level after ordering the bar's signature drink Red Lair. Before we could chose a table to relax at, Rosalie was already being pulled to the dance floor by a fiery red head. I waved Rosalie on in encouragement as I planted myself at a rear table that over looked the remaining second floor. As I pulled my lips off the frosted red martini glass my eyes locked on to her gorgeous sight.

I sat at the table staring, too afraid to look away, certain that she would disappear. I didn't finish my drink and was completely surprised when Rosalie joined me at the table.

"Bells, what's wrong?" Rosalie asked as I was sure I looked utterly sick. I hadn't taken a breath since my discovery. I must have never answered Rosalie, which warranted her pushing my arm with enough force to nearly send me tipping off the chair; I was only being held to it by gravity. I corrected myself at the last instance, catching and disguising my near fall. Even with my stealth like reflexes I hadn't lost the vision of her before me.

"She's here," I whispered too low. I wasn't even sure I heard myself speak the words.

"What? What are you talking about? Who's here?" Again I didn't answer. Rosalie tried to follow my line of sight, although she had no idea what to look for.

"Alice. My Alice," I let out in a breathy manor. What is she doing in New York?

"Really? Which one?" Rosalie was interested in seeing the Kryptonite packing woman. Rosalie made no attempt to be discreet in her search.

"Dark blue strapless dress." My eyes roamed over her bare shoulders and exposed neck. Her skin still looked as soft as it felt that night I dreamed her into existence. I don't know why I believed it would change. Possibly because my skin was no longer the same. I could still feel her cool touch on my blazing skin and everywhere she touched me still reflected that she had once been there. Maybe I wasn't as life altering for her as she was for me.

I subconsciously reached out my hands as if to touch her but there was more than just distance, tables, and people between us. Between us there was a night I couldn't forget and a note that suggested that she could, and had.

"What the hell are you waiting for? Go to her!" Rosalie was not the one for allusiveness; always straight forward. If she wanted it she took it, or it was given to her freely. It was all about self-indulgences when it came to her.

"What? No! I will not embarrass myself in New York. No! Besides I'm sure she is here with someone." I was like a deer caught in the head lights. I couldn't move; I couldn't look away.

"You know what? I am done with this bullshit. I'm going to go talk to her."

Panic spread across my face and left my mouth more forcefully than I intended. I got more than one glare as I shouted "No!"

"Isabella," there goes that damn word again, "this is fate. Come on, what are the chances that you both end up in the same club thousands of miles away form home? On the same night and you spot her amongst hundreds of people?" Annoyance crept back into her tone, "Grow a set and just do it, Swan!"

I knew Rosalie was right but fear was heavy on me like lead boots. I was going to have to swallow my pride and fears to do this, I just didn't know how.

"I can't," was all I was able to utter before Rosalie stood to do it for me. What was I in the third grade? I needed my friend to see if someone else liked me? All that was required now was a piece of paper that said "yes" or "no" and the appropriate boxes to check. Could I get anymore pathetic?

Catching Rosalie's arm again I said, "I'll do it. Damn! Just when I am ready."

"Tonight Bella!" why was she so pissed, you would have thought this was her life.

"Yes tonight. Fuck Rosalie, calm down." I saw as she rolled her eyes at me but was quickly distracted by the brooding black haired giant that took her by the hand. Thankful I had the "quite" minute to think, I continued to watch Alice move seductively to the thumping beat.

I couldn't help but smile as she threw her head back in fits of laughter at her companion's side. Her body moved as a snake as if she was being commanded by the music. Her skin was begging me to touch her. To anyone looking on I must have looked like a psycho stalker. Smiling when she laughed and running my hands threw my own hair when she did the same. I watched her for over an hour before I talked myself into walking up to her.

You can do this, Swan. Damn! Grow a set will you.

I slowly stalked towards her table pausing once when she turned her head in my direction. I was relieved that she didn't see me, just in case I decided to make a run for it instead, but sad as a look of boredom appeared on her beautiful face. Apparently growing tired of the date playing out before her, she stood to walk away. I hurried not to lose her in the sea of people.

I watched as she desperately tried to get the bartender's attention. She suddenly seemed more meek and mild than the flirtatious beauty I had met so many weeks ago. This was Alice's true face and it was more beautiful than the mysterious one who visited me in my dreams.

"Cranberry and vodka and Sparkling Nuevo,." I said to the bartender who seemed to be looking over Alice every single time. I was pained when she finally faced me and I read annoyance on her face. I should have left her alone. I shouldn't have made myself known to her presence. I just couldn't be content with laying my eyes on her angelic form. Now I saw on her face that I was correct in my original assumption, she didn't want to see me again. Guilt prompted her to spell out her name.

But I was already burned amongst the flames and there was no use turning back now. The same lead boots that kept me from talking to her now kept me from running away. I had to get this out of my system and there was only one way to do that.

"Hello, Alice," my voice was so low I didn't think she could her me. I pushed myself to her back straining my desire to turn her around and declare what she had done to my life, but that was too much for this instance. Slowly she turned around and bore into my soul with her beautiful black orbs.

"Hi."

~B x A~

I spent the rest of my time at The Dragon Lounge with Alice. As the club grew more in capacity we were forced to sit closer, shoulder and hands forced together by crowded pushes. At some point we made our way to the back corner of the club. I let the liquid confidence racing through my veins drive me forward as I wrapped my arms around her petite waist. The fabric of her dress was silky but my memory of her skin was more wonderful than even that soft material. I longed to touch her beneath the unworthy fabric that covered her frame.

I excelled to cloud ninety-nine when she pressed further into my embrace laying her hand atop of mine. I leaned into the void between her shoulder and neck, inhaling her wonderfully sweet aroma. I allowed the coolness to envelop me again as it sent a chill and shiver of delight down my spine. Alice lifted her head, welcoming my intimate touch. Her low moan stirred the lust I deeply tried to cage.

While the moment was beautiful I refused to let myself think that my prayers had been answered; I was finally with her. Under strobe lights and alcohol, signs are often misread and misleading. I wanted to do this the right way this time. Protect myself from as much pain as possible. As I formulated my move, I noticed Rosalie appearing at my side.

"Um . . . hello," she said eyeing Alice. I quickly introduced the two. Rosalie continued, "You ready to get out of here? We don't want to miss our flight in a few hours."

"Yeah, I guess. Let me just get Alice back to her friend. I'll meet you at the door." Rosalie smiled and walked away.

"You don't have to do that. I'm fine. I'll find Jasper," Alice stepped out of my embrace. I suddenly felt as if I couldn't breath. Our connection was severed too quickly and without warning. I took her by her hand and instantly felt whole again.

"Nonsense, I can't leave a beauty like you to fend for herself in this craziness." I ghosted my hand over her cheekbone as she leaned into it. Her eyes closed and I allowed myself to assume she enjoyed the heat of my hand.

Alice cupped both her hands around mine and stayed press to my back. I again allowed myself to believe she didn't like the space between us any more than I did, and she did need me. We made our way back to the second level where Jasper remained with his date.

Before she released my hand, I acted quickly. I couldn't let this end but I was out of time. I was against the clock in New York but Texas was filled with it; time and opportunity. I just had to be a little bit more patient.

"When will you be headed home?" I asked, never taking my eyes off her lips.

"My plane lands tomorrow evening. Why?" I could hear anxiety in her voice and only hoped it was the good kind. Or at least good for me.

"Will you go out with me? Sunday night? Say seven o'clock? Meet at Tony's?" I stopped breathing waiting for her answer. While my lungs felt like it had been hours, I knew it was only seconds. Seconds before my heart leaped for joy.

"Yes, Isabella. I would love too." Her smile lit up the dim club.

The sound of my name on her lips pulled the lust further through my core. I had to leave or I was going to take her right there. That wasn't the right way. Not this time.

I pulled her into my arms placing a light kiss upon her parted lips. The taste of the sweet alluring Alice was even better than what my mind was able to hold on to. I slowly removed her form my arms.

"See you there." I walked away backwards, not wanting to leave her, turning at the very last moment.

I was on cloud nine hundred and ninety-nine and could have floated back to Texas on my own high.

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