DISCLAIMER: I don't own the rights to glee nor it's characters.

enjoy...


When I wake up, Sam's arm is wrapped around me, firmly holding me against him. I continue to lie there for a moment and the events of the morning come flooding back. Taking a moment to roll my wrist, a sharp pain shoots through it and I hiss.The sound causes Sam to stir.

"Mercy" He groans.

"Yeah, sorry I woke you." I sigh as I roll onto my back to look at him. My eyes roam over him and his hair is slightly messy. I like it though. He looks very young when he's just waking up. It's definitely nice to look at. I let my eyes roam until Sam opens his. Without saying a word, he reaches up and cups my jaw.

"How are you feeling!"

"I'm fine. My wrist is sore, but other than that. I'm good. How are you feeling"

Sam caresses my jaw with his thumb as he leans in closer, now sharing a pillow with me. His eyes flicker over my face and I wish I knew what he was really thinking, I know whatever it is, he isn't going to tell me.

"Im happy that you're okay. I wouldn't have forgiven myself if he seriously hurt you."

My heart clenches at his words. "Nothing that happened is your fault, Sam. You can't put that kind Of pressure on yourself."

"But I do. I can't help, but feel like l need to protect you. I brought you into my life and I want to make sure you're okay all of the time."

Having Sam consider me a part of his life is nothing short of touching, I don't have a lot of family or friends. My Aunt lives back home and we don't talk regularly anymore. I feel guilty for not calling her, but I also have Sam now. I can talk to him about things if I need to. unless it's about the club then no, I can't talk to him about that.

"Sam, you've already done so much for me. You can't be my hero too."

"And why not!" He smirks, his fingertips just barely moving over my jaw line.

"Because this isn't a fairy tale. You're not a knight and I'm not a princess. I can take care of myself

Sam's smirk dies and he sighs. "I know you can, Mercedes, but that doesn't mean I can't take care of you too. We've been pushing each other away for weeks and it's getting hard to deny that there is something between us. I don't know what it is, but I've become close to you. You don't look for handouts or special treatment and I appreciate that. but if I want to do something for you, I want you to accept it. Let me be here for you."

I go to open my mouth, but Sam suddenly presses his fingers against my lips.

"Let. Me. Be. Here. For. You." He says slowly and after a few seconds, I nod.

"Okay." I whisper and he uncovers my mouth.

Closing the small space between us, I curl into him and he wraps his arm around me. letting his hand rest on my butt. I breathe him in, his cologne nearly causing me to moan.

"You smell good" I mumble against his shirt and

he chuckles. "So do you."

Poking my head out. I look up at Sam, whose face is only an inch or so away from mine. I don't know what comes over me, but I gently press my lips against his. I feel him kiss me back without missing a beat. Giving in to the feelings I have for Sam is scary considering the secrets I'm hiding from him, but l'm tired of going back and forth with him. I'm tired of kissing him and then avoiding him. I want to kiss him and kiss him again without regrets or worries.

His hand squeezes my backside., firmly and I moan against his mouth. God, his mouth is so great. I haven't kissed many guys in my life, but Sam goes down as the best. His lips fit mine perfectly and it's just easy with him. As his hand fondles my butt, I can't help but wish l'd taken off my pants before getting into bed. I need to feel his hand on my skin. Pulling back an inch, I look up at Sam.

"I don't want these pants on anymore. Take them off. please." I whine and Sam smirks at me as

we untangle. Sitting on his knees, he watches as I roll onto my back. He undoes my pants before pulling them down slowly. Thank God, I wore pretty panties today. I almost wore my cotton panties with the flowers and rainbows on them.

When Sam gets them off, he tosses them on the floor. His hands land on my knees and he pushes my legs apart before climbing between them. fuck, this is so hot. I look down and stare as Sam kisses my knees and thighs. Soft whimpers slip from my lips and l want to tell him to stop teasing me, but it feels so good.

I'm in heaven until I feel him about to pull my panties off. The memory of him in the club comes crashing down on me. What if he recognizes my vajayjay?! s that even possible? Either way, the thought cause me to clamp my legs closed as if Jesus himself ordered me too. Sam frowns and looks up at me.

"Something wrong!"

"I, Ah." fuck. "l just think we're moving a little too fast."

Sam squints and I wonder if my lie is obvious. "You're lying" He says and my eyes widen.

Well fuck, there it is.

"How do you know if I'm lying or not?"

Sam grips my knees and slowly pries them open before climbing over me until his face is over mine. "Because, I just know."

Suddenly. Sam lowers his hips and his bulge presses against me causing me to gasp. I try to keep a straight face as he rubs himself against me, but after a few seconds it becomes too much and I moan. Sam waste no time kissing me. Lifting my hips, the pressure increases over my sex. I used to think dry humping was so juvenile, but in this moment it's one of the sexiest things I've done. Sam's hands slip under my shirt and cups my breast and for some reason, I giggle out loud at the thought that crosses my mind.

"What's so funny?" He asks against my lips.

"l feel like I'm in high school and we're in my bedroom making out while my parents are downstairs, thinking we're doing homework."

Sam chuckles as he moves down to my neck. "I can definitely go with that. So what's the subject?"

"Math. You failed your last test so you asked me to help you with it."

"Mmm, I hink l'm pretty good at subtraction. See." Suddenly, he grips my shirt and pulls it over my head, before doing the same to his.

"Wow. you're really good at subtracting and dividing" I motion to my legs and Sam smirks, bringing his lips back to my neck, nipping and sucking.

"I'm actually pretty good at Math. I just lied to get you here. I'd been watching you in class for some time now. Always writing in that journal, nibbling on the end of your pen as you clench your thighs together. What do you write about?"

I whimper as Sam grips my swollen nipple between his fingers, twisting and pulling them gently. "I write about my crush. He's popular and handsome. I write about him talking my clothes off and doing things."

I'm finding it hard to keep talking as Sam grinds his member into me, but this roleplay is seriously hot. I never pegged Sam as the role-play type, but l guess I should since he hides behind a mask at the club and changes his name.

"What things? Tell me." He groans as he licks over my breast, catching my nipple between his teeth and tugging a bit. My back arches and I moan his name.

"I... I write about him touching me between my legs and putting his tongue there. I know it's dirty, but I can't help but think about it" I try to sound as guilty as possible without laughing. I'm enjoying this side of Sam very much.

I'm about to say something about my lack of experience as a high school girl, but my phone starts ringing, blowing the whole fantasy apart since no one ever called my cell phone in high school. You kind of need actual people who like you in order to receive calls. The phone stops ringing only to start up again and this time I grab itWhen I see that i's my aunt from back home, I push Sam off to answer.

"Hello."

"Do cell phones not work in New York? Do the tall buildings somehow block the signals?"

Oh shit, it's my aunt Roz. "I'm sorry. I've just been really busy." I stutter out, trying to compose myself.

I don't talk to my aunt regularly. We barely talk at all since I left home, but occasionally she calls to give me an ear full.

"Busy doing what?! You haven't talked to me in weeks, young lady. Explain yourself"

Of course she would call right in the middle of a make out session. Now it really does feel like high school. I spend the next twenty minutes giving her the watered down version of everything that's been going on, clearly leaving out the parts about the club and Brody's out bursts. Thankfully. she buys it and settles down. I know she worries about me being here without anyone and depends on me to call. I have to do better. She's the only family I have in the world.

As l'm talking to her about her day, Sam comes up behind me and starts kissing my neck. I move the phone from one ear to the other so I can tilt my head to give him better access. When he nips at my neck, I almost moan into the phone as my aunt talks about her dog Lucy giving birth. Not sexy at all, but Sam's mouth on me is.

I close my eyes, blocking my aunt out as she goes into the gross details while Sam's hand reaches around me to grip my breast. His tongue swipes over my shoulder and it sends a jolt between my legs. This man is going to be the death of me. This goes on for the whole phone call and When I finally hand up, I turn around and smack Sam in the chest.

"Fucking tease!" I groan, getting up to go to the bathroom. Flicking on the light, my eyes widen whenI see what he did. Turning on my heels, I stomp back into the room and see Sam laying in the middle of my bed with his hands tucked behind his head, eyes closed, and a satisfied grin on his lips. Growling. l march over to the bed and smack his arm repeatedly. "It was a fantasy! I'm too old for hickies!"

Sam's laugh fills the room as he tries to dodge my hits. "I didn't hear you complaining!"

"I'm kicking you out! Out you go, Mister." I point to the door and Sam continues to laugh as he rolls out of my bed, grabbing his things. I follow him to the front door. I give him to the boot without another word. However, as I'm walking to the kitchen, I hear a knock on the door.

Assuming Sam forgot something, I go over and swing the door open. I don't get a word out before Sam's lips slam into mine. It takes me by surprise and I take a step back only for him to take a step forward. He kisses me hard and passionately, sending electric shocks down to the tips of my toes.When he finally pulls away, he smiles and kisses my nose.

"See you later"

"Uh huh" is all I can get out. Damn, he's good.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Instead of pushing the moment behind us, for the rest of the week, EmSa. sneaks little moments to touch or kiss me. I don't know what has changed, but he's getting very comfortable with us being openly attracted to each other. We still keep our little sexy moments private at work, but when no one is looking, he'll run his fingers over the back of my neck or run his hand up my thigh under the table at meetings. It truly makes me feel naughty that we are basically sneaking around and by Friday my wrist brace is off and club night is here again.

I've tried not to think about the fact that Sam and I are getting closer, but I'm still lying to him. I don't like it, but I don't know how to tell him. I've even contemplated just telling him at the club so we can at least be in neutral place, but I doubt that would go over well.

Also, there's Brittany. She has been texting me all week saying how she can't wait to have me to herself again. I know it's only a Friday night type thing, but her flirting during the week increased to the point where she was telling me how she wants to taste me. Did it turn me on? A bit, yes, I can't lie about that.

I feel like I'm in a love triangle and one of the corners doesn't even know about it. It's frustrating and confusing to say the least. After work. I get home just in time to find a delivery boy at my door. I breathea sigh of relief, thanking the good lord that Sam had to go to his place for a last minute conference call with a company from California.

After signing, I take the box and go into my apartment, dropping my keys and purse by the door. Flopping down on the couch, l open the box to find yet another expensive black dress. However, instead of the slightly modest one from last week, this one is more everything with less material. It's shorter and tighter. The neck line is high, but there is no back to the dress. Just great. Putting the dress down, I dig in the box again, finding a new mask. This one is made from feathers. It's soft and elegant.

I go through the rest of the things and there's a cute pair of heels along with a medium sized velvet bag, Frowning, I pull it out and when I open it, I realize that it's a bra and panty set. Black lace. So Brittany. Holding up the panties, I notice that they are crotch-less. Holy shit Who the hell is supposed to wear these? Picking up my phone, I call her and she answers

on the second ring, "Hey, Dollface"

"Don't hey me. I think the makers of these panties forgot to add a piece of material where my lady bits are."

Brittany giggles into the phone and soon it turns into a full laugh. "I saw them and immediately thought of you. That was the exact reaction I expected, but I want you to wear them for me."

"Brittany,I don't know. I mean are you going to send me a goody box every week. I know this stuff is expensive and I don't deserve any of it."

Brittany huffs into the phone. "Doll, I don't buy these things to treat you like a charity case, I buy them because I know you'll look sexy as hell in them And the panties are for easy access tonight. I don't know if I'll be able to keep my hands off. Maybe Sam will get a little grabby. I told him I'm bringing the same girl with me when he asked."

"Sam asked about me!"

"Of course. You were fucking hot last week. He wanted to know if I was bring someone new or not."

Butterflies swarm in my lower belly at her words. Sam was asking about me. He just didn't know he was asking about me. Clearly, my lady bits left a lasting impression on him. After tallking to Brittany a little longer and eating a small dinner, I decide that I should try to relax before tonight. I'd had an extra-long day with 3 meetings. All of them boring to me, but important to Sam. No hands on my thigh or flirty notes the whole time.

Heading to my bathroom, I run a hot bubble bath and turn on a little music to set my mood. Sinking down into the water, I inhale the lavender scent, letting it soothe me.The bathroom fills with Bob Marley's "Is This Love" and I hum along, tapping my finger on the edge of the tub.

After getting out of the bathtub, my energy is restored as"Wasted" by Tiesto starts playing. Dancing around, I curl my hair, twisting some of it back. I sing into the curling iron, almost burning my lip at one point. Now that I've been to the club once, I feel a lot less nervous about it all. I'm still nervous, just not as much.

After putting on lotion and perfume, I squeeze into the dress and it nearly takes my breath a way for a second from how fitted it is. If I inhale to much air, it may break a rib. It stops about mid-thigh and I know that keeping my legs crossed tonight isn't on the agenda for Brittany. I still don't know why l'm not freaked out by her. It's clear there's something there and it's something that I like. I've never been with a girl so it's not like l've ever been curious. It's Easy with Brittany though.

I wait until it's almost time to go to slip into the new heels. I'm thrusted up a few inches and I feel quite confident with my temporary height enhancement. When Brittany texts me letting me know she's outside, I grab my things before heading out. When I get to the lobby. I see Brittany standing outside of the SUV waiting for me. I scan over her long legs in her dress and I can't help but think that she's so gorgeous. Pushing the door open, her eyes shoot up from her phone and she smiles.

"Wow. you look amazing" Usually her tone is playful when she gives me compliments, but this time it's different. More serious.

"Thank you" I send her a soft smile as she leans in, kissing my cheek. Brittany opens the door and I slide in before her. Once inside, I expect the car to leave, but instead we just sit there. Brittany whips out her phone, types something then looks at me.

"Put your mask on, Doll. sam is riding with us.

Nearly choke on air as my eyes widen. "What the hell, Brittany!"

"Don't freak out. He thinks we just pulled up. He doesn't know queen lives in the same building."

She shoots me a reassuring smile before resting her hand on my knee. Quickly, I reach into my clutch and pull out my mask. Brittany helps me put it on so I don't mess up my hair. As Brittany adjusts the mask, her eyes stay on mine. I focus in the specks of green before the car door opens, starling me. I flinch away as Brittany slides over next to me to let Sam in.

Sam closes the door and smiles at Brittany, before pulling his mask on. When he has it in place, he looks down at me. "Queen, nice seeing you again"

I nod and Brittany smiles. "Yeah, we had so much fun last week so I figured I should keep her by my side."

"I agree" Sam says as the driver heads to the club.

The ride is quiet for the most part and if it weren't for Brittany's finger drawing different shapes on my knee, l'd have nothing to focus on. I'd surely be panicking right now at the thought of Sam sitting right down from me. Brittany totally screwed me over. She clearly finds it amusing to put me into situations that leave me flustered. She knew all along that she was letting Sam ride with us and didn't think to tell me during our half hour conversation.

I ponder on this for most of the right until the car stops. Blinking several times, I realize that we're here. Thank God. I don't know how I was going to make it in that car for another I0 minutes. I watch as Sam gets out before helping us from the car. When it's my turn, he takes my hand and electric shocks jolt through my fingertips. I don't make eye contact with him as I walk by and join Brittany by her side. She wraps her arm around my waist as we approach the door.

With my mind so clouded, I barely hear Sam tell the door man the password. Sensing my tension, Brittany leans into my ear. "Calm down, Dollface. We'll be at the bar soon enough."

I shoot her a short nod before walking in. As promised, Brittany gets to the bar and gets some liquor in me. After a few shots, I feel my nerves easing down. Next to me, Sam drinks his drink rather quickly. Does he have something to be on edge about?

I study over him for a while before turning my attention to Brittany who is talking to someone at the moment. Is she trying to push me and Sam together? He's the only other person I know here. Standing there, quietly, I scan over the room. People are standing around talking with naked girls walking around with trays of drinks. I can't imagine a man in here not captivated by a gorgeous body, but none of them are looking, Stuffy much? I'm sure as hell looking.

"Queen" A deep voice says, pulling me away from my idle thoughts.

Turning, I look up at Sam. well from this point on, it's Asher.

"Yeah" I smile, softly.

"How are you! You seem a bit off"

"Oh, no. It's just so. boring down here. Why do these people come if they just plan on standing around?"

Sam...Asher smirks and glances around the room."These people keep the place running. They make pretty big donations to come to a place like this. And yes, they look pretty boring, but you'd be surprised what some of them are into when they head upstairs."

"I can think of a few things" I mumble, but he hears.

"I bet"

Before I can say anything else, Brittany well Babe finally buts in. "Are you two ready?"

We both nod as she takes me hand. I can't hide the fact that l'm excited to go upstairs. I damn near walk faster than Brittany, but I manage to slow my pace as we head up the stairs. Once we get to the second floor, some similar activities from last week are going on. Tingles run up my spine as the sight of people laying their desires out for everyone to see. It's exhilarating.

Inhaling deeply, Babe leads me around and I can feel Asher following closely. I fight the urge to reach back and take his hand in mine. Surely, it's a little lonely coming without someone to play with. Did I just imply that I'm Babe's play thing!

Scrunching my nose at the thought, look back and Asher's eyes find mine. I give him a small smile and he returns it, though it doesn't fully reach his eyes. Ah fuck it. Reaching out, I take his hand in mine and tug him along. His palm is large and warm and I can't help but remembering this very hand sliding over my skin.

The three of us go through the motions of navigating through the club. Babe and Asher stop to talk to people while I watch others fondle each other. At one particular moment, my eyes lock on two men sitting in the far corner. One of them is on his knees taking the other in his mouth. Inhaling sharply. I squeeze Asher's hand by accident which causes him to follow my gaze. When he sees what l'm looking at, he chuckles and turns to me, raising an eyebrow. His playful stare makes me look down to the floor as I smile.

The longer we are standing around the more comfortable Asher becomes. At one point his arm make its way around my waist when it isn't occupied by Babe's. It stays there as we follow behind Babe. Finally after what seems like forever, we get to my favorite floo. The sex floor. I can't hide my excitement when we enter and the familiar beds catch my attention. Under the sheer curtains, couples are indulging in each other while being watched.

I break off from Babe and Asher to do my own exploring, Each bed is something diferent. One couple is fucking hard and fast while another is taking their time. Both send me into a haze of horniness. Stopping at one bed, I watch as a masked woman slowly straddles a man, easing down on his manhood. His eyes roll back and his hands rest of her hips as she begins to ride him. I try not to let my arousal become obvious as I stand there. controlling my breathing.

As l'm watch the woman dig her nails into the man's chest, I feel the hairs on the back of my neck stand. A chill runs down my spine as I sense someone standing behind me. Thinking it's Babe, I turn my head slightly, but when I catch the deep alluring scent, I know it's Asher.

On cue, his hands fall on my hips. He pulls me back against him and I feel his hard member against my back. My nerves spike, but I don't move. My heart is thudding in my chest and I swear l can feel my pulse between my legs too. Suddenly, my hair is being swept over my shoulder and Asher's lips graze over my neck. In that moment, I remember the hickie he gave me and how it took 30 minutes and two different concealers to hide it. I paid 40 for those concealers. They better last all night or l'm getting a refund.

A deep groan from Asher brings me back and I rest against him. "You smell amazing" He moans and for a second I wonder if he knows, but I remember that I swapped my regular lotion for one I never use. I really have to stop panicking about this. If he knows then he'll say it.

"So do you." I mumbles as his hand comes around to rest on my stomach. I'm no longer focused on the couple in front of me, because Asher's hands are enough to send me over the edge. A few seconds later, another figure appears and it's Babe.

"Having fun without me?" Neither of us say anything as she leans into kiss me. I don't hesitate to kiss her back as Asher's fingers dig into my skin.

When Babe pulls away, I notice a few people stare at us and as much as I don't enjoy it, I don't hate it as much as I thought I would. It's something so naughty about it. Feeding into the crowd, Babe reaches between my legs and before I can process it, her fingers are on me. I moan softly as my wetness dampens her fingers.

"Oh, Dollface, are you wet for us?" She smirks.

All I can do is whimper.


With all eyes on us, my heart beat grows into a soft thud in my chest. My breathing is heavy and my head is hazy. Standing in the middle of a small group of watchers, Babe's fingers are working between my legs as Asher is holding me from behind, his strong bulge, protruding into my lower back. God, kill me now. How did I get into this situation and why do I like it so much?

Leaning my head back against Asher's chest, his slow steady breathing, sends me into a mental bubble as I focus on it. I fight to keep my eyes closed in fear of seeing the actual number of people watching us. I feel Babe lean into me, pressing her lips against mine. Her lips are soft and taste like sweet liquor. Reaching up, Asher's large hand grips my chin, roughly turning me away from Babe to slam his lips into mine. Mm, strong brown liquor pours off his taste buds onto mine. Having them together could make me into a drunk fool.

Suddenly. Babe's fingers are gone and I feel uncomfortably open. A strong feeling of vulnerability washes over me and when I open my eyes, there are so many eyes on me that my knees nearly give out from under me. Gasping. I step away from Sam and damn near run from the room. I hear Brittany call after me, but I don't stop. I have to get out of this room, away from them.

Turning down a dark hall, I stop and catch my breath, my whole body shaking with nerves. I press my hand against the cool wall and it's tempting to just rest my fact against it, but that would be a little too much. Standing there with a hue of red flooding the area due to the colored lights, I feel like l'm in a daze. A fog of lust and danger. Why am I really doing this? What am I getting out of it? Outside of this place, Sam likes me just fine.

I shouldn't have to conceal who I am just to be the girl I think he wants. I was curious at first, but now l'm just confused. Should I leave and just accept that this is what Sam does on his Friday nights? Hell no! I would never be able to trust him. Hell, he doesn't even know I'm me and his hands were all over me. Who am I to think that he would give all of this up just to be with me?

Letting my breathing settle, I rest my back against the cold back, letting it put out the blaze inside of me. I look down at my shoes and wonder if I can catch a cab home. l'm not quite feeling the scene any longer. Maybe it just isn't for me to be a play toy. It's too overwhelming and intense. I like being here because I've discovered a new side to lust and sex, but at what cost?

"So stupid." I mumble to myself.

Suddenly out of the corner of my eye I see a dark figure appear at the end of the hall. Standing up straight, I turn to look at them. By the time my eyes adjust and I realize its Sam, It's too late. A split second later, he is in front of me, turning me and slamming my body against the wall. Gasping loudly. I go to say something when all of sudden my mask is ripped off.

My eyes widen in shock and Sam just stands there looking at me. His face is hard and angry. I'm caught.

"Sam, I.." I start, but nothing comes out past that point because suddenly his lips are on mine.

His body sinks into mine, pressing me harder against the wall. His mouth is rough and hard, unlike how he kisses me outside of the club. I like it though. Reaching up. I go to touch his face, but he grips my wrist, pinning it above my head. He repeats the action with my other hand, more gently.

Obviously taking into consideration that I just got my wrist brace off. Even angry, he still doesn't want to hurt me like that. I don't have time to ponder of it, because with one large hand holding my wrists, the other yanks my dress up to my hips and though they are crotch- less, Sam rips the panties from my body. The movement, causes me to moan loudly. God, yes.

I don't take my eyes off of him as his fingers undo his pants, quickly. My heart is beating erratically and I want nothing more than to have him inside of me. I need him to fill me. When his hard member falls out of his pants, it takes everything in me to not fall to my knees and suck him off. fuck, what is this club doing to me? With my juices soaking my inner thighs, I whimper."Please, fuck me."

Sam groans, but doesn't speak as his mouth find the crook of my neck. Biting down on me skin, the pain sends a shock to my core and I press my hips against him, his member brushing over me. When he can't take it any longer, Sam turns me around, taking my hands and pressing them against the wall. I let my forehead rest against the coolness as he pulls my hips back. I hear something rip and I assume it's a condom. After a few seconds of silence, I feel his hands on my hip.

Holding my breath, I feel him at my opening, He pressing one hand against my lower back and with a hard thrust, he enters me. I claw at the wall as the pain of him stretching me and the pleasure of him finally being inside of me collide. I can hear Sam breathing hard as I adjust to his size which is significantly larger than Brody was.

After a tew seconds, tthan begins slamming into me, the sound of our skin smacking together with each blow. I try not to yell out, but my moans are constant as I bite down on my bottom lip. I know Sam is having a hard time keeping quiet with each half groan.

I don't know how I went this long without sex, but I've missed it so much. It's literally being forever and by forever I mean a couple weeks. With everything that's been going on, you'd think it would be longer.

As I'm reaching my peak, Sam doesn't lighten the blow, but with his heavy breathing, I can tell he is so close to exploding, Shutting my eyes, I push back against him and catching me off guard, Sam smacks my ass, hard. Harder than I would ever expect. The sting shoots through me, only fueling my approaching orgasm. I begin to feel my core contract around him and on cue, I fall apart. Behind me Sam curses softly, hops jerking, member throbbing inside of me. My core continues to milk him as our heavy breathing fills the area.

As we come down, I stand up straight, smoothing my hair out of my face. When I turn and lean back against the wall, Sam is already zipping his pants back.I pull my dress back down and when we're composed again, I part my lips to speak.

"Sam, I'm sorry."

I expect him to say something when all of sudden. Sam reaches in his pocket, pulling out my mask. Tossing it at me, it hits my stomach before falling to the floor. Inhaling sharply, I look at Sam as he walks away from me. That's it? Without a word he just fucks me and leaves?.

Anger rises over me and tears come to my eyes. I feel filthy and used. Pulling my mask back on, I head back out only to slip through the crowd to leave, not looking for Brittany or Sam. I just need to get out of here.

As I'm walking outside and onto the main street, I luckily see a cab passing by. Thankfully, he stops.I get home shortly after and before the door can fully close, I'm sobbing. Ripping off the mask, I throw it in the trash and go to my room. When I get out of my clothes, I take a hot shower, scrubbing until my skin is red and raw.

Once l'm out, I pull on a long shirt and go to the kitchen. Making myself a cup of hot tea, I squeeze some lemon in and add a bit of sugar a long with a tear or two. I don't know why l'm crying like this. I guess I just didn't expect Sam to react this way when he found it. I knew there would be a possibility of him being angry, but what he did tonight wasn't him. Or at least it wasn't the Sam I came to know.

~~~~~~~~~~

l awake to the sun beaming in my eyes and I quickly realize that l'm still on the couch. I remember trying to watch a movie to distract myself, but only ended up crying till l passed out. Opening my eyes, I dread the day. I dread Monday and it's not even here yet. l dread checking my phone and seeing the possibility of a text from Sam or Brittany being there. I dread having to face the fact that I hid everything from Sam and included Brittany to do it even though she was a willing participate.

Sitting up,I stretch and grab my phone off the table. Unlocking it, I see 10 texts and 5 missed calls all from Brittany expect one call from Sam. Each text is asking me where am I or if l'm okay. Then the last text says that Sam told her he knew. Not wanting her to worry. I call her. On the second ring, she answers.

"Mercedes, are you okay?"

"No, I'm not okay. I just wanted to let you know that I made it home okay. I'm sorry I left so abruptly. I was upset"

"Tell me what happened!"

After telling her what went down, Brittany sighs in the phone."That fucking idiot"

"Brittany, how did he find out?"

"After you ran off, he looked so confused and then it was like he had an epiphany or something. He asked me and I had to tell him. He stormed off and I didn't see him again. I'm sorry he did that to you, Mercedes. He isn't usualy like that at all"

"It's whatever now. He hates me.What's done is done and I can't do anything about it. I'm not going back Brittany."

"l understand. Just take care of yourself, Doll face."

After getting off the phone, I sulk for a few hours and decide to do the one thing I never do. Run. I pull on some workout leggings that I usually use as lounge clothes and an old shirt before pulling on a pair of barely used running shoes. With my headphones and barely charged phone, I head out. Riding on the elevator, I download a tracking app to record my distance, not wanting to half ass it.

Outside, there aren't many people out since it's still early so I take off down the side walk. 10 minutes into the run, I already feel better even though my lungs and thighs are burning. Weaving around people, I pass by other runners and we give each other short smiles, establishing a runners connections. If there is such a thing, After 3 miles on periodic running and walking.

I find myself at a coffee shop I've never been to. Dipping inside for a quick bite, I run into Marley at the register. The only reason I know it's her is from her red hair. The hair I was trying to achieve when I first met her after Sam hired me.

When she sees me, she gives me a hug despite me being sweaty. After ordering, we graba table. I don't get to see Marley often because she worked clear across the office and our schedules are so unpredictable that we barely cross paths. I do feel bad about that considering she did so much for me in the beginning. I think it was time to start actually being a friend to her. Brittany wasn't really the type of friend I needed at the moment.

"So what have you been up to I see your hair is still the same color. I was so sure that the red monster would make a second appearance."

I can't help. but laugh thinking about the mess that was on my hair. Never again. "I've just been working Work and home are the only two places I see now a days" Not including the occasional sex club, but that doesn't count.

"Same here girly. I feel like I have no life. No friends. No boyfriend. Just work"

" feel your pain, but we should change that. We never really got to know each other once I started working for Sam. You were so nice to me. We should hang out, Go shopping"

Marley's eyes light up and she claps."Yes! 'd love to go shopping with you.I haven't been in forever"

Most likely she is referring to 3 weeks ago being forever. After eating breakfast and scheduling a shopping day for tomorrow, I walk back home instead of catching a cab like I wanted to. No half assing it. When I finally get home, my whole body is quite sore and tired. Inside my place, I strip and take a shower. I feel a lot better than I did when I woke up .The truth is out. There's no use in dwelling on it.

However,I am concerned about what will happen when I see Sam again. Trying not to think about it, I pull on a pair of black leggings and a flowy shirt before grabbing my things. I feel like it is time for a change. Something for myself for once in a while. Piling my hair on top of my head, I know just what I want to do.

"You want me to cut it?" Unique asks as she stares at me in the mirror.

Twisting slightly in the salon chair. I nod."Yes. Not a lot, but I want it to stop around right here." I point to the area right under my shoulder.

Unique sighs and runs her fingers through my damp, freshly washed hair. "l'm going to miss these locks. After fixing your hair a few weeks ago, I had dreams about it"

Laughing, I roll my eyes."I've had that hair all my life. I want some change. Plus, I don't want to look like some hippie love child anymore. It's getting too long"

"Fine. Fine. I'll cut it, but not to your shoulder. Mid back and that all l'm cutting"

"That's fine. It'll still be more manageable than it is now."

Unique nods and turns me away from the mirror as she grabs her sheers. Eye closed, I pull myself into my thoughts as she cuts away. Who knew haircuts could be so therapeutic? After the cut and blow out, she turns my chair back around and I can't help, but smile. My nearly lower back length hair is now mid back. Pulling it over my shoulders, it falls over my breasts, nicely.

"I love it. l've never had it this short."

"You look gorgeous, sweetie. Keep letting me take care of this hair and you'll never be unsatisfied!"

I thank unique a million times before paying and leaving, feeling like a new woman. After picking up some new chair ties and brushes, I head home. For the rest of the day. I spend it running my fingers through my hair as I lounge around doing nothing else, but focusing on being happy. It take a lot to not think about Sam, but I manage.

The next day I make it a habit to get up early and go for a run. I aim for a better 3 miles than yesterday not wanting to overdo it. I'm quite proud when I don't stop as much.I manage to shave 5 minutes off the time it took to run it yesterday.

At home, I shower quickly and get dressed so I can meet Marley for shopping Throwing on a simple black short sleeve dress that stops at above my knee. I tie an old red flannel around my wait for an added layer before slipping my feet into a pair of Vans. When I arrive at the store Marley wanted to meet at, I find her with the dresses with a few already on her aim. When she sees me her, mouth drops.

"Holy shit. your hair!"

Smiling, I roll my eyes, flipping it over my shoulder. "You like?"

"I fucking love! It suits you so well. Now., let's get down to business. I already picked you out a few dresses"

She grabs 4 dresses off her arm, passing them to me. This girl has a serious addiction, but wanting to just let myself go crazy, l put myself in Marley's shoes and turn into a addict with her. 6 hours, 5 stores, 800 out of my bank account, a mani/pedi, and 2 vanilla lattes later, I am beat. After the cab drops Marley and her new wardrobe off at home, it takes me to my place.

In front of the building, I grab all 10 of my bags and make my way to the door. Thankfully, a random man sees me and opens the door. However, as l'm walking to the elevator, I trip over something, mostly likely my own feet and fall on the carpet.

"fuck"I hiss as carpet burn hits my knees.

"shit, are you okay?" I hear from behind and when I look, this guy is walking towards me. He's in regular dark jeans and a Nirvana shirt, but his hair is slicked back and he also has on Vans. Casual, yet handsome. When he leans over to help, I catch his blue eyes and they are hypnotizing.

"I'm fine" l groan as l get to my feet, hand still in his.

"I think the bags took you down" He chuckles and I laugh.

"I think you're right"I shake my head as he helps me pick them up. When I thank him, I expect him to leave, but he doesn't.

"I'm Travis."

"Mercedes. Nice to meet you." I hold out my hand and he shake it, firmly, yet gently. I can't lie and say that his hand surrounding mine doesn't feel nice, but I don't have time to set my eyes on a new man right now.

"Do you live here?"

I nod."Yeah. You!"

"Oh, no. I stay two blocks away. I just came to return my sisters dog. She was out of town and I was watching him for the weekend.!"

"Well, that's very nice of you."

"Yeah, most people would think that, but if you knew how many time I almost let him run away for peeing on my carpet, you wouldn't think I was so nice"

I giggle and when the elevator doors open, I smile. "Well, it was nice meeting you Travis. Thanks for the help."

"No problem." He shoots me a smile and wink.

As I turn to get on the elevator. I continue to watch him for a few seconds as he sticks his hands in his pockets. I look away when the doors are almost close. However, at the last second, a hand flies out and catches the door. My eyes shoot up to see Travis.

"Would you go to dinner with me Friday? I know we just met, but l'm not the type to let a good thing go when I see it."

Wide eyed and shocked, I force out a laugh, hoping he is joking, but I quickly realize that he's not. "Um...okay"

Travis smiles as he pulls his phone from his pocket. "Great. Um, just put your number in and I text you."

After saving my number in his phone, I hand it back and he steps away letting the doors close this time. What the hell did I just do? With the shit storm going on, the last thing I should be doing is going on a date. Groaning to myself, I get off the elevator on my floor and march to my door.

Sam most likely hates me and l go and plan a date. Just great. Inside my apartment, I drop my bags by the couch and flop down. Hopefully,. this week will be okay. Hopefully.


Ohhh babyyyy, it's so much going on in this chapter. I don't know where to begin. Let me know what yal think.

p.s. please excuse any grammar errors that may occur.