BACK TO THE START
by MAMBFF
Disclaimer: The rights to "Vampire Academy" belong to Richelle Mead.
Author's Note: Thank you to the new readers who have taken the time to comment/review. I really appreciate seeing a few words of encouragement sometimes.
WARNING: This chapter contains some mild depictions of sexual assault. I've tried to keep it minimal and not very descriptive, but clear enough as to what transpired.
Chapter 11: "Make It to The End"
~VA BTTS VA~
"Roza." Dimitri coaxed me awake. I could feel him running his hand over my hip and around my abdomen, cuddling me closer to his chest. "Morning, love." He crooned as he cupped a breast from behind, squeezing gently.
"Morning." I murmured, stretching before turning in his arms to face him. "Hi, Comrade." I smiled. Grinning in return, he rested his head on a bent arm while the other lay across my waist.
"We have to get ready for court soon." He relayed, brushing my messy hair off my face. "What would you like for breakfast?" He asked as I tucked my head into his neck, kissing the underside of his jaw.
"I don't think I can stomach anything right now." I admitted. "I'm too nervous." I explained, rolling onto my back.
"At least have something to drink?" He posed. I nodded in agreement as we climbed from the bed.
Dimitri and I picked up Mia at 8:10AM before heading to the courthouse. I was a bundle of nerves. The idea of having to see Jesse again was making me anxious. I know he couldn't do anything to me, but having to see him at all was bothersome.
The last time I had seen him, he'd tried to force himself on me. Not to mention the physical assault. I could only imagine what Mia was feeling. Jesse didn't succeed in his plans for me, but he had with Mia. I was lost in my thoughts when I felt Dimitri slip his hand into mine, squeezing comfortingly. Looking over at him as he drove, I smiled weakly.
"How are you, Mia?" Dimitri questioned, glancing at her in the backseat using the rear-view mirror.
"I'm ready. Nervous, but ready." She replied. There was no guarantee she would testify today but she wanted to be there to show support. Without saying so, I think she was also hopeful that her presence would scare Jesse. That is if he even recognized her.
Based on what the DA, Meredith told us, I would be called to the stand first because the charges were initially brought against Jesse due to what he had done to me at 'Dhampir' in the back office of one of the training rooms.
Only one of the victims from the gym was willing to testify in court while the other two would only submit an affidavit. Then Dimitri would corroborate their testimony, followed by Alberta and Hans. Following them would be the past employees from the lounge. All three were happy to take the stand and share what was done to them as well as what they witnessed him doing to other patrons of the lounge, not just the employees.
After that, the defense would bring in their own witnesses. Meredith wasn't surprised when counsel had shared their witness list and sure enough, Ralf Sarcozy was there. What was surprising was that there were no other witnesses named. Either they couldn't find anyone, or they were that overconfident.
Mia would be called as a rebuttal witness to Ralf to share the atrocities he and Jesse perpetrated against her. Her testimony was likely going to discredit anything Ralf said, damning him irrevocably. What both Jesse and Ralf didn't know, was that with help from Ivan and Dimitri at the time of the assault, they'd taken her to hospital and had a sexual assault kit done as well as photos taken of the bruises they'd caused and the other injuries she'd suffered. No charges came from it, but an official police report was made.
Mia had explained to Meredith and I that she didn't want to press charges, at the time. But the evidence collected could be used if she decided to move forward, at a later date. The assault was barely over a year ago and she was still trying to deal with her mental health after the fact. Filing charges when it happened was too much for her to take.
When we walked into the courthouse I was completely gobsmacked. Before me stood Lissa, Mason and Eddie.
"What in the world are you guys doing here!?" I called in surprise, giving each a side hug due to my arm in the sling.
"Christian got a call from the mental facility that Tasha is being detained in." Lissa relayed. "Something happened." She added sadly.
"He went to see her." I realized. Of course, he would, and he should. Despite what she had done, she was his family. Maybe whatever had happened would help bring him closure.
Lissa nodded. "After getting the news that she was sentenced to serving at least seven years at the facility, Tasha broke the mirror in a bathroom and used it to cut herself." She specified.
"She tried to kill herself?" I asked in surprise.
"No, not exactly. She sliced up her face. Pretty badly." Lissa explained. "They told Christian it looked like a bear had attacked her." She added dejectedly.
We might not have agreed with Tasha's behaviour but this was not the kind of 'punishment' we'd wish on anyone.
"Jesus." Dimitri murmured in shock, from just behind me. He slipped his arm around my waist. "How's Christian?" He posed.
"Not great. But he hopes his visit with her will help." Lissa explained. She looked exhausted and it was likely because of her worry over Christian.
"I never liked her but that's just crazy." Mia interjected. "Will she be, okay?" She added. Lissa just nodded.
"They're about to get things started. We need to take our seats." Meredith interrupted.
"Are you coming in?" I asked, looking at Lissa and the boys.
"We wanted to be here to support you." Lissa smiled, reassuringly.
The courtroom was buzzing as Meredith led us in and took her seat at the prosecution's table. She signalled for us to sit behind her in the first row. I didn't dare look over at the defence's table and felt myself tremble slightly.
Dimitri slipped his hand into mine and I squeezed a little harder than necessary. I needed the contact to keep me grounded.
"I love you." He murmured, kissing my cheek.
"I love you too, Comrade." I smiled, kissing the underside of his jaw.
The bailiff asked everyone to stand as the honourable, Judge Arthur Schoenburg entered and took his seat after instructing everyone that we could sit. A few moments later, a side door opened and Jesse Zeklos was ushered in. It wasn't until they reached the defence table that they removed his handcuffs. I looked away rather quickly so I didn't catch his eye. Dimitri bent his head and kissed my temple while squeezing my hand once more. It was no secret that Dimitri wanted to kick his ass. But his eyes clearly showed the hatred and disdain he had for Jesse.
A quiet hush fell over the courtroom as Judge Schoenburg asked that the jury be led in. I watched as they took their seats and was happy to see that they were evenly split with men and women.
I was called to the stand and kept my breathing focused and calm. Meredith's questions were simple and I relayed the basics, as she'd asked how I'd come to have a cast on my arm currently.
Moving forward, I detailed in a concise manner, the minor altercations at 'Moroi Royale' before the final assault. Jesse's lawyer tried to object, stating that my experiences at the lounge had no bearing on the charges. Cue my eye roll.
"Goes to patterned behaviour, your honour." Meredith defended.
"Overruled."
Meredith nodded approvingly at me, acknowledging that I was doing well. Even if I didn't feel it, things were progressing as they should be. But I still had to deal with the defence counsel. They would be able to ask me about the lounge now as well, because Meredith had brought it up.
"Thank you, Ms. Hathaway. Now," She paused. "Can you please describe the physical violence and attempted sexual assault that led us here today?" She smiled encouragingly.
Once again, I kept it concise and to the point. It was hard to not get a little emotional, but I made sure to mention the scar on Jesse's hip too. Something Mia would point out again later, along with a secondary mark.
"Thank you." She acknowledged. "No further questions, your honour." She finalized, taking her seat at the prosecution's table.
Jesse's lawyer sprung from his seat, a smarmy smile on his face. He seemed a little too eager for my liking. It made me wonder what Jesse had told him. All lies, to be sure, but what lawyer wouldn't believe their client?
"Ms. Hathaway," He grinned. "I'm Marcus Lazar, counsel for the defendant." He informed. I nodded in acknowledgement while waiting for his questioning to start. "Your honour, Mr. Zeklos is countersuing Ms. Hathaway on a charge of aggravated assault." Lazar directed to the judge.
"Ms. Hathaway accosted Mr. Zeklos at the back door of 'Moroi Royale', and in the process broke a few fingers on his right hand and his nose." Marcus informed. Such a lie. I didn't accost the dipshit, he attacked me, and I broke his face and fingers the night before.
"Ms. Beckham, do you have any evidence that disputes this claim?" Arthur posed.
Meredith stood up. "Yes, your honour. A local business across the street from the lounge had surveillance footage set up in the back lot of their business as supplies was going missing upon deliveries. The evening in question that Mr. Lazar is referring to was captured on that surveillance. I have a copy here for the court to see." She relayed.
The bailiff retrieved the thumb drive Meredith held up that contained the recording.
"Objection, your honour, the defence was not made aware of any video!" He exclaimed.
"You will find a copy of the video on the thumb drive that was delivered to you last night, Mr. Lazar." Meredith replied. "I have a copy of the courier's slip, your honour, showing that Mr. Lazar signed for it himself." 'What an idiot', I thought.
We'd barely started and this lawyer of Jesse's was looking like a complete buffoon. With his objection pretty much nullified, the court played the recording. Anyone with eyes could see, as clear as day on the high definition and colourized video how I emerged from the back door. I stopped for a moment, bent over with my hands on my knees. I remember how angry I'd been when I left Nathan's office after returning my uniform.
Moments later, Jesse barreled out the door and hit me from behind. I'd turned around when Jesse hit me again. I'd reached out and grabbed his hand and bent his fingers back. Looking away from the video, I could recall what had happened.
"I think we've seen enough." Schoenburg interrupted as I was seen on the recording running away. "Your counter claim is dismissed." He ruled. "Carry on with your cross, Mr. Lazar." He instructed.
Marcus looked flustered, but tried to act confident. "Mr. Zeklos only acted flirtatious due to your encouragement." He said, looking at me expectantly.
It felt like a minute passed before he huffed irritably and repeated himself. I said nothing in response. Looking to the judge, I followed his gaze as he directed a question at him. "Your honour, can you please instruct the witness to answer." He spat.
Judge Schoenburg turned towards me. "Is there any particular reason you're not answering counsel, Ms. Hathaway?" He posed.
"I'm happy to answer any questions, your honour. But counsel has not asked one." I replied.
"That's preposterous, I asked you twice!" He spat.
"No, you made a statement. Twice." I clarified, glancing at Meredith. She was smirking, but trying to hide it behind her hand.
The judge then looked to the courtroom stenographer and asked that they repeat the question, Marcus supposedly asked.
'My client, Jesse Zeklos only acted flirtatious due to your encouragement.' Was read aloud.
"Ms. Hathaway is correct, Mr. Lazar." Judge Schoenburg stated. "Either ask an actual question, or move on." He added.
I couldn't help the small smile on my face but directed it kindly at the judge as a way to conceal the real reason I was grinning. He nodded in approval before we directed our attention back to Jesse's lawyer.
There was a satisfied feeling moving through me. I didn't have to do much to make Marcus Lazar look like an idiot.
"I'll rephrase. My client, Jesse Zeklos only acted flirtatious due to your encouragement, isn't that true?" He spat.
"No." I replied.
"No?" He asked, exasperated. "Answer the question Ms. Hathaway!" He shouted.
"Objection, your honour. Asked and answered." Meredith interjected.
"Sustained. Move along Mr. Lazar." The judge ordered.
We were barely forty-five minutes into the trial and it appeared that even the judge was irritated by defence counsel.
"You never encouraged Mr. Zeklos by flirting with him?" Marcus posed.
"No." I replied, keeping it concise.
Meredith had warned me about this. Marcus wanted me to go into some explanation with details that he could pick apart. It wasn't my fault he was a dumbass and was asking yes or no questions.
"You didn't find my client attractive, and try to pursue something with him?" He asked.
"No." Was my reply, again. I wanted to laugh at the irritation on Marcus' face, but held it in.
Mr. Lazar seemed to change his strategy as he came at me with a new question. "Did you have any relationships with other patrons of the lounge?"
"No." Jesus, this guy was stupid. You ask a yes or no question, that's all you're going to get in reply.
"What were your duties as a server at the lounge?" He asked. 'Ohh, finally!' I thought. A question that wasn't yes or no.
"To take their food or drink orders. Serve those items. Check in to see if they required refills or anything extra like napkins, silverware or condiments." I relayed.
He smiled that smarmy smile again. "Was there anything else 'extra' you offered?" He asked.
It was clear what he was insinuating but once again my answer was simple. "No."
Marcus was getting so angry that it was almost comical. I watched as this vein in his forehead seemed to pulse. There was nothing for him to pick apart or catch me on. I watched as he smiled broadly as if he'd just discovered something.
"What sort of attire did you wear for this job?" He posed, grinning.
"There was an assigned uniform. It consisted of a pair of black and white dress pants and a matching high collared shirt that slightly resembled a chef's coat." I shared. "Covered from neck to ankle." I explained. "It was a unisex style uniform that all employees were required by management to wear." I added.
"You never came to work in dresses, skirts, or pants?" He pushed.
Back to yes or no it seems. "No." I stated.
"You never wore anything other than the uniform." He pushed once more.
"No."
"Are you sure?"
Meredith interjected again "Objection, your honour. Once again asked and answered."
"Sustained. I think the witness has made it clear she only wore the uniform, counsel." He admonished.
"I'd like to enter this photo into evidence, your honour." Marcus stated, handing a copy to Meredith and one to the judge. "This photo clearly depicts Ms. Hathaway in the offices of the lounge, not wearing the uniform she so persistently claimed she wore.
Marcus placed a copy of the photo in front of me and I wanted to laugh. He was truly an idiot. It was a photo from the offices of the lounge. There were security cameras in the hallway after all. This was before I went outside and was attacked by Jesse. The dumbass defence counsel had just seen me in these clothes outside on the video.
"Can you explain why you're wearing tight jeans and top that is clearly showing your abdomen?" He interrogated. That smile was on his face again.
"After Nathan Ivashkov fired me for defending myself against Mr. Zeklos and his sexual assault," Marcus interrupted me.
"Alleged, assault." He spat.
I took a deep breath before continuing. "I received text messages the next day from Mr. Ivashkov, informing me that if I did not return the uniform by 9PM that evening, he would deduct the cost of that uniform from my final paycheck." I shared. "This photo shows that I'm carrying a bag, and the uniform is inside. It is why I went in the back door of the lounge to the offices. I wanted to avoid being seen by patrons of the lounge."
"Do you have any evidence to support this claim?" He asked arrogantly. He thought he had me.
"Your honour, we have text message printouts as evidence to support Ms. Hathaway's claim." Meredith interjected. The bailiff moved to collect the copies she had to hand to defence counsel and to Judge Schoenburg. A third copy was passed to the jury along with the photo Marcus had presented. "As the court is aware, Mr. Lazar just saw a video of his client attacking Ms. Hathaway, after she'd returned the uniform." Meredith added. "Clearly, in the same clothes." She finalized, picking apart his attempt to discredit me.
Marcus looked defeated at this point. He thought he'd caught me in some lie.
"Why not just keep the uniform and ignore it?" He asked.
"The uniform costs upwards of $150. I didn't want to lose that much money, being that I didn't have a job anymore." I clarified.
Defence counsel really seemed stuck. He had nothing.
"Did you ever seek out Mr. Zeklos at the lounge, in order to be alone with him?" He asked, moving on to a new line of questioning.
"No." I stated.
"Why not?" He pressed.
"I didn't want to be alone with him." I stated, keeping it simple.
"You never snuck away to be with him?" He urged.
"No."
Once again, I knew he was trying to get me talk more, but you can't pick apart what you don't have.
"When did you first come to notice Mr. Zeklos at the lounge?" He changed the direction of questioning again. Finally.
"I'd come into work one afternoon, and learned that a fellow employee, Inna, had quit unexpectedly the night before. Due to her leaving, I was assigned the section she would have overseen." I shared. "That evening, Mr. Zeklos arrived with a party of around six people and were seated in that area."
"That was your first-time serving Mr. Zeklos?"
"Yes."
"How did that go?"
"They ordered food and drinks and stayed for almost five hours." I shared.
"Anything else happen during that first encounter?" He pressed.
"It was the first night he sexually assaulted me." I relayed.
"Objection!" Marcus called.
"Counsel, you asked the question." Judge Schoenburg chastised.
I thought this guy was supposed to be a good lawyer but he was quite the imbecile. His questions continued in a similar manner and didn't get him anywhere. But I guess when your client was guilty as sin, there was nothing you could do.
After what felt like a lifetime, Marcus finally gave up. "No more questions for this witness." He mumbled angrily, getting nowhere. But he did manage to make himself look like a fool and to make his client look even more guilty. He barely asked about the gym assault. The video footage was especially damning. Taking this case to trial was a losing battle for Jesse. He was just too goddamn arrogant to see it.
Meredith continued with her list of witnesses, and all their stories corroborated one another.
More video evidence came into play, supplied by Alberta and Hans, showing one of the gym victims on screen, being harassed by Jesse as he grabbed at her, repeatedly. She was the only one who agreed to testify. The others were scared.
Even though there was no audio, as the video progressed, you could see how Dimitri had to intervene. He escorted Jesse away as Alberta and Hans went to help the gym member. They supplied a copy of the paperwork she completed with the assault details. It was entered into evidence. Another strike against Jesse.
When Marcus would do his cross examination, he just kept digging himself and his client into a deeper hole. Both Mr. Lazar and Jesse were shocked to the core when a video was submitted into evidence from Alberta. It had video and audio and showed her seated in her office as Jesse's father tried to bribe Alberta for her silence.
Mr. Lazar tried to challenge that evidence, claiming that they had no right to secretly record Mr. Zeklos. Once again, Meredith was prepared and shared photographic evidence of the multiple signs around the gym that clearly stated that the premises was under video and audio surveillance. When Alberta had been questioned about the video footage, she had explained that because the gym was a 24/7 establishment, members would try to sneak into different places, like offices, to have 'intimate relations'.
Installing the audio and video was the only way to deter this as no one wanted to be found out. Especially if these particular members were cheating on a spouse.
An audible gasp erupted throughout the courtroom when you could clearly hear Zeklos Senior utter, "I know my son is guilty of assault. This is not the first time. Just take the payout and we can hush it up."
Judge Schoenburg looked absolutely homicidal. I can only imagine what he was thinking. 'Why didn't Jesse just take a plea deal?'. Arrogance. That's why, Arthur. I felt him glance my way, sadly. Almost as if he was sorry, I was even having to go through this.
When it was nearing 1PM, Meredith had questioned myself, the one victim from the gym, Dimitri, Alberta and Hans. As well as the three ex employees from the lounge. Lazar's cross did nothing but confirm Jesse's guilt.
During his cross, Marcus tried to use Dimitri's relationship with me against him, but once again, it just backfired. The video evidence showed Dimitri punching Jesse, yes. But just once; enough to subdue him.
The video also showed the other gym members who'd arrived and carried Jesse out. Marcus tried to claim that Dimitri assaulted Jesse without provocation, but his attempts to make Dimitri the guilty party fell flat. Any idiot could see he only hit him once as he attempted to attack Dimitri after he had pulled Jesse off of me.
Court was adjourned for an hour-long lunch and I heaved a sigh of relief. The judge, then Jesse, were escorted from the courtroom before the jury exited. The people in the gallery started chattering as they collected their belongings.
"Rose!" Meredith gushed. "I could kiss you!" She smiled.
"Leave that to me." Dimitri joked as he leaned down to do just that.
I laughed lightly. "Care to explain?" I asked as Dimitri slipped his arm around my waist.
"I love that you got Marcus at the beginning. His asinine statements!" She laughed.
"I admit, that was kind of fun. But I had to try so hard not to swear or laugh!" I exclaimed.
"It was brilliant. It showed you pay attention to details and I think Judge Schoenburg actually had a lot of respect for you for that. He didn't even catch it until he'd called on the court reporter to read it back." She shared.
"We've only got an hour, and I'm sure you're hungry, Rose!" Lissa interjected.
"God, I'm starving." I agreed. "I was too anxious to eat this morning." I confessed.
Our motley crew trudged along with the crowd as we made our way outside of the courthouse. We went across the street to a diner and were able to be seated at a large booth together.
"So, Mia," Meredith started. "Marcus will call Ralf when we return, then you will be a rebuttal witness." She explained. "Do you have any questions for me?" She finished.
"No, but I'm nervous." She started. "I haven't talked about that night. Not since the night it happened and I told Ivan and Dimitri." She admitted.
Throughout the mornings court proceedings, Dimitri was quietly texting with Ivan to keep him in the loop. Knowing that Mia was likely to testify this afternoon, Dimitri let him know.
"Ivan will be here this afternoon." Dimitri shared.
"Really?" Mia smiled.
He nodded. "He knows you could use support and if you have to talk about a difficult part, you can focus on him." He added.
Mia nodded, thankfully.
Mason and Eddie had been rather quiet, so had Lissa.
"Liss?" I started, getting her attention. "Any word from Christian?"
She took a deep breath as she looked at her phone once more. "Tasha's had a complete mental break." She informed. "It's so bad, she didn't even recognize Christian."
"Is he okay? I can't imagine what he's feeling." I replied.
"I think in some ways, he'd written her off, you know. But now, he just feels bad for her." She relayed with a shrug of her shoulders. "He said she's practically catatonic at this point."
"Is there anything we can do to help him?" Mason asked.
"Don't ask him about her. You can ask him how he is, but don't mention her name." She advised. "Unless he brings it up." She added.
"We can do that." I smiled reassuringly. "Just let us know if we can do something." I smiled reassuringly.
"Maybe we should get drunk tonight." Eddie interjected. "I mean the heavy court stuff is practically closing itself, and I'm sure Christian would appreciate no questions from us if it can be helped." He added. "Despite our obvious concern."
"I have vodka at home." Dimitri informed. "Real vodka." He clarified as we snickered quietly at that.
"I'll bring tequila." Eddie retorted. "Sorry man, but your vodka is like drinking gasoline. I don't know how you do it." He chuckled as everyone followed in the laughter.
"I'll drink your Vodka, Comrade." I giggled.
"And you'll like it." He teased.
"HEY! I have an even better idea." I interjected. "It still includes alcohol, don't worry. BUT, I've 'moved' in with Dimitri, but haven't unpacked. So, maybe let Christian know it's a 'move Rose in' party?" I suggested.
"That's a great idea, milaya." Dimitri crooned, leaning over to kiss my neck.
"I'll bring wine." Lissa added as everyone agreed. We even extended the invite to Meredith, but she politely declined. Our part in the trial might be relatively over this afternoon, but she was certain that a verdict would be swift and quick the moment defence rested.
We enjoyed greasy burgers and fries before meandering back over to the courthouse with ten minutes to spare. As we traipsed along with others to get back inside, I turned to Lissa. "Liss?"
"Hmmm…" She murmured.
"What's something that would make Christian feel better?" I posed.
"Cooking." She smiled.
"What if we bought enough for everyone, and cooked for all of us tonight?" I cajoled.
Lissa really loved the idea. She agreed to pick up the ingredients for one of Christian's favourite dishes to cook. It would help him unpack his feelings from the day to just do something that was second nature to him.
"That was a nice gesture." Dimitri whispered in my ear as we finally sat back down in our previous seats.
A hush fell over the courtroom as Judge Schoenburg returned, followed by Jesse, then the jury.
I could feel eyes on me and looked over to see quite a few jurors looking at me sympathetically.
As the afternoon began, Marcus Lazar called Ralf Sarcozy to the stand. Meredith was still surprised that Ralf was the only witness.
"Mr. Sarcozy." He smiled. "Thank you for being here today." He added. "Can you please share how you know Mr. Zeklos?" He questioned.
'Oh, look at that! Improvement already, Marcus!', I thought to myself. An actual question.
Ralf explained that he and Jesse had known each other since kindergarten and were best friends.
"So, it's fair to say that you know Mr. Zeklos quite well. Is that true?" He asked.
"Yes." He answered, looking over to the jury and winking. 'Ohmigod! You're not going to flirt your way out of this. What a dumbass.' I thought.
"During his visits to 'Moroi Royale', were you with him?" Marcus posed.
"Yes. We always went together. It was his favourite establishment to visit." He confirmed.
"Why was it his favourite?" Marcus queried. Good for you Marcus, no more yes or no questions.
"He enjoyed the food a lot and the bartenders made excellent drinks." He shared.
"Any other reasons for it to be a favourite?" Marcus pressed.
"I'd witnessed a few of the servers flirting with him regularly." 'What a crock of shit.' I thought.
I grumbled inaudibly, but it must have been loud enough for Dimitri to hear. He slipped his hand into mine and squeezed comfortingly.
"Had you ever witnessed Mr. Zeklos being inappropriate with any of the staff?" Marcus continued.
"Never." Ralf responded, a little too quickly. Such a lie.
"Thank you, Mr. Sarcozy." Marcus replied. "No further questions for this witness." He addressed, retaking his seat next to Jesse. I was shocked that he didn't ask about the gym. Ralf tended to go with Jesse to the gym too, so he knew the three other accusers. But then again, maybe that's exactly why he didn't question him about that.
Meredith stood from her seat, poised and ready to go.
"Mr. Sarcozy," She began. "During your visits to the lounge, did you have occasion to be separated at any given time from Mr. Zeklos?"
"Sometimes. I mean most times we'd be there for a few hours, so we'd have to use the restroom." He shared.
"You just testified, that you had never witnessed the defendant being inappropriate with any of the staff at the lounge, is that correct?" She asked.
"That is correct." He replied rudely, rolling his eyes as if Meredith was stupid for asking.
She simply smiled. "During these separations to use the restroom, as you just testified to," She reminded. ", is it not possible that something inappropriate could have happened that you did not witness?" She pressed.
Ralf started shifting in his seat awkwardly. "Well," He stumbled over the words. "I mean,"
"Never mind Mr. Sarcozy, we'll move on." She smiled again. Her point had been made and Ralf's unease was answer enough. Doubt. "At any point in the approximately twenty years that you've known the defendant, have you had any occasion to witness him being abusive in any way shape or form?" She added.
"Maybe." He murmured.
"I'm sorry, could you please speak up so the court can hear you." She instructed.
"Maybe." He answered louder.
"Please explain a time when you 'maybe' witnessed a moment of abuse or assault by the defendant?"
"Objection!" Marcus interjected.
"It's a simple yes or no question your honour and an answer of 'maybe' leaves room for doubt. The witness needs to clarify." Meredith challenged.
"Overruled." He called. "Answer the question." He directed to Ralf.
"Sometimes, when Jesse gets drunk, he can be a bit," Ralf paused. ", overzealous."
"What do you mean by overzealous?" Meredith pressed harder.
"He could get handsy." Ralf admitted.
"You mean to say that he would touch other people?" Meredith asked for confirmation.
"Yes."
"How did these people react to Mr. Zeklos' 'overzealous' actions?"
"They'd just push him off and walk away." He shared.
"How often did these 'overzealous' actions take place?" Meredith pressed.
Ralf sat up straighter, as if he gained the upper hand. "Only when he was drinking." He nodded.
"Did these 'handsy' moments happen every time Mr. Zeklos would drink?" She continued.
"Yes." He replied. You could see the realization on his face at what was coming.
"Did you and Mr. Zeklos drink alcohol during each of your visits to the lounge?" She asked.
"Yes."
"How many drinks would you say you consumed?"
"Not many at all." He tried to convince. "Maybe four in five hours." He added.
"You paid for your own drinks, correct?"
"Yes, of course." He snidely replied.
"And of course, Mr. Zeklos would pay for his own, correct?" She queried.
"Yes, we always paid for our own drinks." He confirmed.
"Your honour, we'd like to enter into evidence, four receipts under Mr. Zeklos' name and four receipts under Mr. Sarcozy's name. Paid with their credit cards." Meredith shared. "The dates in question reflect those that Ms. Hathaway shared in which Mr. Zeklos sexually assaulted her." She added. The bailiff collected the evidence to pass copies to the defence counsel, judge and jury.
"Just to confirm, Mr. Sarcozy. You just testified that you only had maybe four drinks in five hours, is that correct?"
"Yes." He replied, a little too quietly.
"Well, that doesn't coincide with these receipts that show in the course of five hours, you ordered ten drinks." She informed. "That works out to about two drinks each hour. Does that sound correct?"
"I don't know." He mumbled.
Meredith had done a good job at discrediting Ralf, but she wasn't done.
"Please take a look at this receipt." She advised, placing a copy before him. "Who does that receipt belong to?" She asked.
"Jesse Zeklos."
"Yes, and how many drinks did he order?"
No one could hear his reply. "Speak up please, Mr. Sarcozy." Judge Schoenburg called.
"Twelve." He spoke.
"For someone ingesting that much alcohol, would it be fair to say that Mr. Zeklos may have gotten, 'overzealous', while you were using the restroom?"
I wanted to smile but tried not to. They were fucked.
"It's possible." He uttered.
"Thank you. No more questions for this witness." She finalized, returning to her seat.
Because Mr. Lazar didn't question Ralf about the gym, that meant Meredith couldn't ask him as it was never shared in court that they were ever there together.
"Call your next witness, counsellor." The Judge ordered.
"That was our only witness your honour." Marcus admitted.
"Ms. Beckham?" Arthur addressed. "Rebuttal?"
"Yes, your honour. The prosecution calls Mia Rinaldi to the stand." She announced.
Mia looked utterly terrified. I reached over to give her hand an encouraging squeeze as she moved to the witness box.
"Hello Ms. Rinaldi. Thank you for being here." Meredith started. "Can you please share with the court how you know Jesse Zeklos?"
"Jesse is my ex-boyfriend's best friend." She stated, a slight tremble in her voice.
"And who is your ex-boyfriend?"
"Ralf Sarcozy."
Meredith approached and said something quietly to Mia. Suddenly, Mia sat up a bit straighter, and a small smile was barely visible. But if you looked closely, you could see it on her lips. Her eyes were focused at the back of the courtroom. Turning to look, I saw that Ivan had managed to find a seat in the back row at the end. Right in Mia's line of sight.
"When did you and Mr. Sarcozy break up?" Meredith started.
"Just over a year ago." Mia replied.
"What was the reason for your break-up?" Meredith asked.
"Objection, your honour, relevance?" Marcus interjected.
"Goes to credibility of Mr. Sarcozy's testimony, your honour." Meredith justified.
"Overruled. Please continue." Mr. Lazar was not happy, and grumpily sat back down.
Meredith repeated the question, before walking to the prosecution's table. She picked up a box of tissue and set it on the witness stand for Mia.
"Ralf and Jesse brutally attacked, and sexually assaulted me." Mia admitted. Hushed murmurs echoed around the courtroom.
I felt like crying for Mia at what she was about to endure. Just knowing that she had to go into more detail by describing their actions made me feel nauseous.
"I understand how difficult this is, having to relive the experience." Meredith started. "Can you please share with us what happened?"
Mia took a deep breath as her hands fidgeted with the tissue in her hands. "Ralf had invited Jesse over one evening." She paused. "It wasn't unusual for that to happen, but most times Jesse would show up unannounced. That evening, they started drinking, heavily." She continued, reaching for another tissue. "I didn't want to be around them while they got drunk, so I went to bed." Mia paused. I watched carefully as she tried to control the tremble in her bottom lip. "A couple hours later, the door to the bedroom burst open with force. It woke me up when it hit the wall. Both Ralf and Jesse stood there, watching me."
Mia had to pause again as she took a deep breath. "Jesse came closer and said that Ralf didn't mind sharing. I didn't know what he meant at first until he started undressing himself." She stopped, and dabbed at her eyes. Although the task seemed fruitless as a trail of tears still escaped.
"Jesse climbed onto the bed and ripped at the night shirt I was wearing. He'd pulled it up to my neck and held it there tightly, constricting my breathing. The next thing I knew, he was inside me. Forcefully thrusting." She hiccupped through the tears. "I couldn't push him off because I couldn't catch my breath." My hand started gripping Dimitri's even tighter, and he squeezed gently in return. This wasn't easy to hear. "All I could do was lay there and hope he finished soon. My eyes focused on the only thing in front of me. The ragged scar on Jesse's hip and the second one on his upper thigh. When he finally climbed off of me, I was gasping to catch my breath." She reached a hand up to her throat as if reliving that very moment, she could breathe again.
"Do you need a moment?" Meredith interjected. Mia shook her head. "Alright. Please continue." She coaxed gently.
"Jesse raped me, and then Ralf did the same." She paused.
"Objection! Your honour, where's the proof!" Marcus blasted. "This allegedly happened more than a year ago!" He countered.
"Your honour, we have medical records, a sexual assault kit with corresponding DNA reports that match Mr. Zeklos and Mr. Sarcozy, as well as and photos of the abuse and injuries Ms. Rinaldi sustained due to the defendant and Mr. Sarcozy's actions."
"You have their DNA?" Schoenburg asked.
"Yes, your honour. Ms. Rinaldi didn't want to press charges at that time due to the emotional and physical trauma she sustained, but the statute of limitations has not expired and she will be filing charges." Meredith informed.
Arthur nodded. "Overruled. Please continue." He stated. "Ms. Rinaldi, do you need a moment?"
"No, I'm okay. I can make it to the end." She smiled sadly with tears in her eyes.
Mia continued. The worst part of what she endured was how they took turns. Over and over. It didn't matter to them that Mia had been bleeding all over the bed. When she tried to fight them off, Jesse took the lead and would hit her, repeatedly. Breaking an eye socket and fracturing her collarbone. She even had ligature like bruises around her throat and neck from her own sleep shirt.
When they finally seemed to be done with her, she snuck out and headed to 'The Academy' in nothing but her night clothes, with blood dripping down her legs. It had been her night off, and Dimitri and Ivan were the ones to comfort her and take her to hospital.
"I think that's enough." Arthur interrupted. "Ms. Rinaldi, I'm very sorry you had to be here today, to relive this. Please take a moment." Judge Schoenburg instructed as Meredith handed her a glass of water.
Glancing over to the jury box, there wasn't a dry eye to be seen. But Lazar and Zeklos had pulsing veins in their foreheads that looked like they were about to explode. I rested my head on Dimitri's shoulder and closed my eyes, letting the tears for the abuse Mia suffered, finally fall.
"Milaya." Dimitri whispered, wrapping his arm around me. "You, okay?" He murmured, only loud enough for me to hear.
"I just keep thinking, that could have been me." I shared as I released an audible sob.
Clearly, I'd been heard, as I noticed a few jurors look my way. But I tried to contain my emotions. Turning my head into Dimitri's chest, he wrapped me in his arms. I was too scared to look up.
Judge Schoenburg interrupted the palpable silence. "Mr. Lazar," The baritone of his voice echoed around the courtroom. ", do you intend to question this witness?" He asked, a stern look on his face that clearly said 'you better not'.
"No, your honour." He stumbled over his words. "No questions for this witness." He shared as he looked down at the copies Meredith had handed over to the bailiff with the DNA evidence. "In fact. The defence rests."
Jesse started arguing with his lawyer after that and the judge quieted him with a pounding of his gavel. "Order! Quiet Mr. Zeklos! Or you will be held in contempt."
Mr. Lazar and Meredith gave their closing arguments. You could tell Marcus had pretty much given up. But Ms. Beckham's final comments really put things in a new light.
"I'd like for you to please close your eyes. While I paint a picture for you." She began, giving everyone in the courtroom a few moments to comply. "Imagine your place of work is no longer safe because of overzealous, handsy patrons touching you without your consent each time they visit. But you keep going to work, because you have bills to pay." She spoke. "You have enough after another sexual assault and not even your boss comes to your defence. So, you find a new job. Something you know a great deal about. It's safe, secure. Only… it isn't." She paused. "It's almost the end of your shift going on 9PM in the evening. You're doing your rounds and suddenly, you're hit from behind, shoved, and forcefully pressed into a hard metal surface as your attacker tries tearing your pants off you in order to take what isn't his." Meredith gave everyone a moment to process the scenario before painting another picture.
"In another life, visualize a quiet night at home with your significant other. One that is interrupted by a guest. Invited or not. The peace you'd come to know, the safety you rely on in your own home, are taken from you, with no choice in the matter." She paused.
She looked at each of the jurors as she slowly paced back and forth in front of them. I glanced up to see a few had their heads bowed, but all eyes were closed. Dimitri squeezed my hand in support as I closed my own eyes once more.
"After two people you thought you knew, one whom you loved, betray you. You're left alone, frightened, and bleeding after they repeatedly rape and beat you. Your attackers are still both in the same apartment. You're not sure if you have broken bones, but all you know is you need to get away before they do it again. Can you imagine that kind of desperation? That kind of fear?" Meredith asked rhetorically. "Can you see, that frightened young woman, frantic for help, for anyone to help her, to stop it?" I glanced up again and noticed that Meredith herself was trying not to cry. "Her body feeling broken, bruised and bleeding." I heard Meredith actually let out a quiet sob. "Can you see it?" She added. "Can you see it?" She repeated. "Now," She stopped. I realized she was trying not to cry out again. ", imagine it was your wife, your sister, your mother, your daughter. You." She ended.
There was a shift in the atmosphere as everyone's eyes opened simultaneously and a reverberation of gasps echoed around the courtroom as Meredith took her seat. She grabbed a tissue and wiped at her eyes. Her final statement had put everyone in that room in Mia's shoes for a brief moment.
"We have all heard a detailed amount of testimony today. Some, more disturbing than others." Judge Schoenburg started. "Surprisingly, I don't think we've had a case be heard in one day before with such overwhelming evidence." He paused. It felt like Arthur was even wondering how it got to the courtroom with so much against Jesse. "Ms. Beckham, do you wish to amend the charges against Mr. Zeklos to include the violent sexual assault and battery against Ms. Rinaldi?"
"Yes, your honour. We were going to file first thing in the morning. But I have the paperwork and supporting evidence with me today."
"Very well." He replied. The bailiff collected the copies Meredith had. One for the judge, jury and Marcus Lazar.
The jury was instructed to look at the two charges separately. But in order for them to view the new charge involving Mia and Jesse's role. Meredith had to present that evidence and Mia would have to continue to testify to explain what they were seeing.
Judge Schoenburg asked that the courtroom be emptied of spectators as Mia's privacy was of the utmost importance in terms of the photos that would be shown. No one needed to see the photos of her naked, abused body. But it was a necessary evil for the jury, judge and counsel.
Meredith was aware of Mia's close friendship with Ivan and requested that he be allowed to stay, as he already knew the worst of the details. He'd held her hand through it all when it had happened.
Thankfully, Judge Schoenburg agreed and he kept to his seat at the back. We said our goodbyes as we'd left. Dimitri let him know that we would meet them outside when all was finished.
Dimitri needed to help me walk as I felt numb. I was glad I wouldn't have to see the photos or hear any more of it, if I was being honest.
"I can't believe Mia suffered like that." Lissa announced once we were outside, wiping at a stray tear on her cheek.
I couldn't hold it back anymore and just started crying. Dimitri pulled me into his chest and walked us away from everyone. He didn't need to say a word, his comfort was simply just being here and holding me.
"You, okay, milaya?" He asked, cupping my cheeks, once my sobs subsided. Dimitri brushed the tears from my cheeks and I could only nod in reply to his question for fear of breaking out in tears again.
"I just," I paused. "I just can't get the thought out of my head that, he could have done that to me. That could've been me." I sobbed, again. "If you hadn't been there to pick me up that night." I cried.
"You're safe now, Roza." He comforted, encompassing me in his embrace and letting me let it all out.
After I'd calmed down, we sat in a discombobulated array along the stairs of the courthouse, waiting for Mia, Ivan and Meredith. Dimitri sat on the stair above me and I sat on the one below, between his legs. He had one arm over my shoulder and bent at his elbow so it was across my chest as I leaned against him. No one said anything. I think we were still all trying to process the information Mia had shared.
It was so unbelievable to me, the things a person could do to another without any remorse for their actions. Or justifying those actions in some ludicrous way. Tasha had tried to blame me for her choices, Jesse did the same, even Nathan Ivashkov blamed me, because Jesse had money and kept his business on the map. In other words, he could do no wrong.
The Zeklos name got you places due to their wealth. But for those of us in the 'low class' range, as Nathan liked to point out, they'd use us, abuse us and repeat, however it suited them.
"Well, aren't you all the most morose and miserable looking bunch!" A voice exclaimed.
"Christian!' Lissa called, jumping up and wrapping her arms around his shoulders.
They had a few moments where he seemed to answer some questions before turning back to us.
"I'm betting your day was just as delightful as ours." I said sarcastically.
"It could be better." He noted with a small smirk. "What are you sitting out here for?" He asked, as we all stood, brushing invisible dust and debris from our pants.
Lissa gave him a run-down of what had happened throughout the day, since she spoke to him at lunch.
"Before you ask, I'm doing fine." Christian relayed. "Tasha is being held in solitary and her condition monitored." He added. "Medication is going to play a role. She hadn't been assessed, mentally, and nothing prescribed. But now they can get her on a regimented plan to help her mental state. She was very convincing to the doctors, apparently, that she was more of sound mind, than she was." He continued. "As for her injury. She's going to have a wicked bad scar on her face, but nothing can change that." He finalized.
"Did you talk to her?" Mason asked.
"I tried to." He nodded. "But she had to be sedated. She kept trying to pull the bandages off her face. When she was a bit more lucid, she just," he paused, rubbing at the back of his neck nervously. ", there was this completely blank look on her face. Like she didn't know who I was." He shared. 'Catatonic', I recalled Lissa saying at lunch.
"Well, we're planning to get drunk tonight, at our place." I smiled, trying to take the focus off of Christian. Dimitri smiled when I said, 'our place', and slipped his arm around me.
Even though Christian said he was 'fine', if you looked at him, you could tell he didn't want any more of the attention that had been directed at him.
"Maybe you could cook for us all?" Lissa posed. "There's going to be a lot of alcohol." She grinned.
"That sounds fucking perfect." He smirked, wrapping his arm around Lissa's waist, and kissing her cheek.
When Mia, Ivan, and Meredith finally emerged, the redness of Mia's eyes showed she'd been crying. Ivan held her hand firmly in his in support.
"Despite my face, I'm really doing okay." Mia shared, as she smiled, genuinely. Ivan wrapped his arm around her shoulders comfortingly and it made me wonder why these two weren't an item. He and Dimitri had a side conversation but my attention was on Meredith.
"The jury is deliberating now. We could have a verdict by tonight, but that's unlikely." She reasoned. "Despite what they might feel, the jury has an obligation to review all the evidence. So, the earliest we will hear anything is first thing tomorrow." Meredith explained. "Or early afternoon." She added.
"How are you doing, Mia? Do you need anything?" I asked.
"I'm good, really. It was actually sort of cathartic. I really loved sticking it to that bastard." She replied.
"It didn't take much for Marcus to confirm the scars Jesse had. When the judge told him he'd have to bring in a doctor to examine him, he shared a photo from his phone showing them." Ivan interjected.
"I'm just glad that the bastard is pretty much set for prison. They have to go through the motions, but there's no way a jury is not going to be unanimous in this one." She stated.
"Thank you, Meredith. For everything." I smiled a watery tear-filled smile as I gave her a one-armed hug. Everyone else crowded around us in a group hug, causing giggles to erupt.
"I will text you as soon as the verdict is in." She added, heading off to her car.
Everyone said their goodbyes and agreed to meet at our place within the next hour. They all had stops to make and it was later than we'd expected to get finished with the courthouse. Usually, court proceedings would finish by 5PM if not earlier. But it was clear that things were pretty much done by 4PM, especially with defence counsel not having any other witnesses. It just took longer for Mia to have to go through the details and evidence for the jury. It was closer to 6:30PM and it had been a long fucking day.
"Lev!" I smiled when we entered the lobby of our building. "We are expecting guests, approximately six in total." I relayed. "Please allow them up when they arrive." I added.
"Of course, Ms. Hathaway." He smiled kindly as Dimitri led me to the elevator with a small wave at Lev.
Christian had cooked an amazing dinner. I was so stuffed; I don't think I could eat another bite.
"I have black forest cake!' Christian called from the kitchen. That got my attention. 'Maybe just one more bite'. I thought, picking up my plate from the dining room table and bringing it to the kitchen. Everyone else followed and we loaded those into the dishwasher.
Dimitri grabbed a new stack of side plates for cake before pulling out his Vodka. Looking around, I decided that Mia and Lissa and I were going to have 'girl' time. The guys didn't mind and went into the recording studio to have a jam session of sorts.
We were laid about the couches in the living room in a lackadaisical manner. All extremely full, even worse now that I'd had that fucking cake.
"Lissa, your man really knows how to cook!" I complimented as a giggle escaped.
"We need to do shots!" Mia interjected with an excited clap of her hands. I was glad to see she was doing okay after today. But I just hoped she wasn't masking any feelings.
"Vodka, Dimitri has a case of it, I will get us our own bottle." I replied. Although, I didn't know where the case was, so I would have to interrupt the boys to find out.
As I approached the studio, I saw Dimitri, seeing me, so I walked right in. I waited until Mason was finished speaking. "Can us girls have a bottle of your Vodka, Comrade?" I asked coquettishly.
"Yes, Roza." He smiled with a small laugh. "It's in the pantry." He replied with a smirk. "Go easy, Love. That stuff will knock you on your ass." He called after me as I waived him off.
Grabbing three shot glasses, I put them over the top of the bottle as I returned to the living room. "I feel like this calls for a drinking game." Lissa suggested.
"Ugh," I harrumphed. "What kind of drinking game?" I asked.
"Something simple." Mia interjected.
"What about like a truth or dare with a twist?" Lissa suggested "If you choose truth, you can ask whatever you want, but whatever you ask, you have to answer too! But dares are just for the person being dared".
"Yeah, I Iike that!" Mia agreed.
"Where does the drinking come in?" I asked.
"Oh! Well, if you don't want to answer, either as the person asking the question or the person being asked, or you don't want to do the dare, then you take a shot."
"I feel like this game is going to make me so exceedingly drunk, fast!" I laughed.
Lissa started by pouring us each a shot.
"Wait! First, I need to get out of these clothes. These dress pants are driving me nuts. I've been wearing them for like twelve hours." I complained.
Mia and Lissa had obviously gone home and changed already before coming over, but I was preparing for company. Dimitri and I had to quickly move some of my boxes out of the way as they had been left in the entryway and cluttering the table in the living room. Well, who am I kidding, Dimitri moved the boxes while I 'directed' him. Lissa helped me take off my sling before I went to change.
After pulling on one of Dimitri's t-shirts, it was like a dress after all, I tugged on some warm fuzzy socks and traipsed back out to the living room.
"On the count of three!" Mia challenged. She began the countdown and we threw back our first shot together.
"OH SHIT!" Lissa screeched as Mia and I fell back laughing. Dimitri wasn't kidding, this stuff could skin a goat!
"Well, now that we know what we have to look forward to if we don't answer or don't do the dare, who wants to go first?" I challenged with a sinister grin.
"You're scary." Mia giggled.
"I think that one shot has already gotten to you." I laughed in reply.
"I will." Lissa agreed. "Rose, you ask me." She instructed.
"Okay, Lissa. Truth or dare?"
"I'm going to regret this, but dare." She replied, closing her eyes.
"You can always take another shot." I relayed.
"Don't remind me." She grumbled.
"Alright, I dare you, to go into the studio, and ask Christian to do you doggie style, when you get home tonight."
She grinned like a maniac before hopping up. Mia and I walked behind her so we could listen in. Clearly the guys watched Mia and I as we stood at the window watching, as Lissa walked in without knocking.
"Christian, when we get home tonight, will you do me doggie style? Thanks." She finished before walking right out.
We giggled like idiots as the guys laughed. The look on Christian's face was priceless before he hollered after her. "We just did that last night!" Causing everyone to howl in laughter.
"Lissa! Girl, you been holding out on me!" I teased as we sat back down around the table. "Your turn." I stated.
Lissa looked at me and I chose dare as well.
"I dare you, to go flash Dimitri your tits." She challenged.
I poured another shot instead. "Why aren't you going to do that dare?" Mia pressed.
"I'm not wearing underwear. I'd rather not flash the guys my ass as well." I confessed, taking back the shot. "Ugh, fuck!" I spat, slamming the glass back down.
"Mia, Truth or dare?"
"Truth."
"Have you ever wanted to date Ivan?" I asked. "I can say, I have never wanted to." I added, answering my own question per the rules. They were very close today, for obvious reasons, but the way they looked at one another during dinner felt different.
Mia's cheeks flushed red. "Yeah, but we're such good friends, that I'd be worried he won't feel the same." She admitted.
"You should make a move." Lissa encouraged. "Your turn." She added.
She called on Lissa and she picked truth this time and Mia asked her about the size of Christian's cock. I didn't need details to be honest and proceeded to plug my ears while chanting, "La la la la la la la…."
"Is it over?" I asked as they stared at me.
This time I chose truth as well. "Rose, how big is Dimitri's cock?" She called rather loudly. I looked over to the studio and saw five faces staring back at me. Forgoing the glass this time, I took a shot from the bottle as I heard one of the guys mumble, 'Truth or Dare'.
"Did you have to say that so loudly?" I chastised with a small giggle, recalling the looks on the guys faces, before turning Mia. Thankfully Lissa had already answered that question so she didn't have to answer again, and Mia didn't have a boyfriend so she didn't have to answer when she'd asked Lissa.
Mia chose 'Dare' this time and I knew exactly what I wanted her to do. "I dare you, to go kiss Ivan. And not a quick peck either, a real kiss." I could tell by the look on her face it was something she wanted. Maybe this would be the nudge she needed.
"I'll do it, but I need a shot anyway." She admitted, drinking straight from the bottle.
Lissa and I stood and followed behind her as she walked in. Once again, we stood at the window and Dimitri just shook his head while smiling indulgently. Mia went further than I thought. She straddled Ivan as he sat on the couch. Mason and Eddie moved over to give her room as she moved in.
Ivan wrapped his arms around her, returning the kiss, eagerly.
"Whoop! Whoop!" Lissa and I hollered, causing everyone to laugh. "I need more vodka." I stated, walking back to the table.
When you drink directly from a bottle, you definitely drink more than can fit in a shot glass, and I was clearly on my way to drunkville. After another twenty minutes, I agreed to one final round, and one last dare.
Mia was tipsy, but not drunk, except for being love drunk! When she turned to me, she looked absolutely giddy. "Rose. I dare you, to go seduce Dimitri, by saying something to him to entice him into bed that you would never, ever actually say." She giggled.
"Imma need a drink first." I announced as I stood once more and took another pull from the bottle.
The guys had just left the door open at this point, knowing one of us was going to come in on some dare. Both Lissa and Mia had, but not me, yet. When they noticed me approaching, I put a little more swish in my hips as I walked towards Dimitri.
"Dude, you're in trouble." Eddie teased.
"Roza." He smiled, leaning back in his seat. He had been sitting in a rolling desk chair at the sound board, so he was taller than if he'd been on the couch.
"Sweet, sassy, molassy." I simpered, coquettishly as the guys exploded in laughter.
"Baby, are you drunk?" Dimitri asked, trying and failing not to laugh, as he wrapped his arms around my waist.
"Yes." I admitted. "But, did I seduce you with my words?" I flirted.
"Absolutely, Love." He grinned, pulling me closer, and kissing me sweetly. "How much of that bottle of Vodka did you guys have?"
"It's almost gone." I giggled, I sat sideways on his lap.
"We better get going." Christian laughed. "It's almost 11PM." He added.
"Don't forget Sparky! Lissa wants it doggie style!" I winked, holding my hand up as if I was firing a gun. He just smiled and chuckled.
"Thanks for the reminder, Rose." He replied, shaking his head.
"Come on, milaya. We'll walk everyone out." Dimitri stated, helping me to stand.
Hugs were given and just as everyone was about to get on the elevator, my phone chimed loudly from the kitchen island. Dimitri handed it to me and I opened the lock screen to see a text from Meredith.
"Hey, wait! Meredith texted." I informed as Ivan shot an arm out to keep the doors from closing. "Fuck, I can't focus." I grumbled. Dimitri smiled and took my phone.
"Roza, seriously." Dimitri laughed. "You named Meredith 'Boss Bitch Lawyer Chick' in your contacts?"
"What she is." I defended as everyone laughed lightly as he started reading the text aloud for me.
Boss Bitch Lawyer Chick: The jury has gone home for the evening, as of 10PM. They will reconvene at 9AM to continue deliberations.
Dimitri replied with a simple 'Thank you'.
"Damn, they stayed pretty late." Mason stated.
With final parting goodbyes, everyone finally left and Dimitri locked the door.
"You know, Comrade." I started. "We never did unpack any of my fucking boxes." I shared, with a hiccup and a laugh. "So much for the 'Rose moving in unpacking party'." I giggled again while dancing around.
Dimitri watched with amusement for a few moments. "Let's get you to bed, sweetheart." He coaxed. "But first, water." He added, handing me a tall glass.
When the glass was empty and sitting on the island, he scooped me up into his arms and carried me to bed. "Aren't you coming to bed?" I asked, when I noticed him pulling on sleep pants and a t-shirt.
"In a little bit. I have something to finish in the studio." He relayed. "Go to sleep. I'll be in soon." He added, leaning down to kiss me sweetly before turning off the overhead light.
Rolling over, I used a pillow to rest my cast on as the alcohol helped me fall asleep quickly.
Waking sometime later, I tapped my phone to see the time read 3:43AM and Dimitri was still not in bed with me. I didn't feel drunk anymore and headed to the kitchen for another glass of water before moving towards the studio.
He was in the booth, recording vocals with a set of headphones on. The red light was on, so I knew not to open the door or interrupt. When he finished a few moments later, he headed towards me. But 'Shhh'd' me until he could stop the recording. I nodded in understanding as he came through the door and pressed a button.
"Sorry, Love. I didn't think I'd be this late, but I just finished." He explained, touching a few things on the sound board and the connected computer.
"Can I hear it?" I asked.
"Not quite, I have to do a final mix. But soon." He smiled, leaning down to kiss me before leading me out of the studio. "Let's go to bed." He added with a yawn, scooping me into his arms once more, causing me to shriek in surprise.
"Thank you for today." I murmured, as he cuddled me in his embrace. "It made it easier, just to hold your hand." I confessed, looking up at him.
"I should be thanking you, too." He shared.
"Why?" I asked in confusion.
He chuckled at the expression on my face. "You kept me from actually getting up, walking over and hitting that stupid little fucker." He admitted, causing me to laugh hysterically.
"I wish you could have, Comrade." I agreed. "Especially after hearing what he did to Mia."
"I love you." He murmured.
"I love you, too."
Turning over, I hugged the pillow again and rested my arm over it as Dimitri spooned me from behind. Slipping his hand under the shirt of his I was wearing; it was like a reflex now that his hand would caress and then cup one of my breasts. He massaged it for a moment before trailing his hand back down and resting it just below them, holding me tightly against his chest.
I thought he'd fallen asleep but his voice echoed around me. "Roza?" He questioned.
"Hmmmm…"
"What the fuck is sweet, sassy, molassy?" He asked, as I broke out in laughter, again.
~VA BTTS VA~