I woke up with a start and bolted from the bed. I rushed to the bathroom, my hand over my mouth. Just in time, I threw myself to the ground and lifted the toilet seat. It was painful and hard to breathe as my guts began to spill out of me.
My mouth tasted bitter as last evening's contents came up, choking me. My stomach hurt, and my nose burned. My head was throbbing.
The feel of fingers brushing my neck caught my attention. Noah was pulling my hair away from my face. I wretched again, humiliated and embarrassed.
"Go away," I groaned, sweating and panting.
"I'm not gonna go," he chuckled. I dry heaved and gasped for air.
"I don't want you to see me like this," I argued, dry heaving mid sentence.
"I've seen worse," he said, kneeling behind me and rubbing my back. "I'm staying."
I couldn't argue as I dry heaved again. A wave of dizziness washed over me and I swayed.
"Steady, there," he said. I drug myself to the wall and leaned against it. The cool surface helped sooth the ache in my skull. "I'm going to go get you some water," he flushed the toilet. "I'll be right back."
My eyelashes fluttered as he left the room. I drug myself to my feet and wobbled towards the sink. I was still a little drunk, and it took me a while just to get the faucet running. I rinsed my mouth several times, then brushed my teeth.
Noah returned then, and handed me a glass of ice water. I sipped on it slowly, gripping his arm for support. My hands shook so badly I spilled water down my front.
"I want the dress off," I said, reaching back for the zipper. It caught on the fabric and I sighed in exasperation.
"Here," he said, reaching behind me. He was close, and I could feel his warmth on my skin, though he didn't touch me. He unzipped the dress easily and stepped back, taking my drink.
I shimmied out of the tight dress as he set the cup on the counter. He yanked up his fresh grey t-shirt from the back of his neck and handed it to me. He must have changed last night. The whole party was a blur.
I slipped his shirt over my body. It smelled faintly of his cologne, but it only accented his own lovely scent. It was sweet, but soft. Clean, and intoxicating.
"Drink some more water," he said. He leaned against the wall, folding his toned arms. His torso was bare, and even in the dark, it was defined. My heart stuttered as I picked up the glass, examining him.
"What are you staring at?" he asked as I sipped my water.
"You're kind of," I searched for the word. "Sexy. In a stoic kind of way. You have a handsome and brooding face,"
"I do not have a brooding face," he scoffed, leading me from the bathroom, and then towards the stairs.
"You kind of do," I giggled as we assented and approached the bed. "It's cute though."
"God. I don't think I've been called cute since I was a baby," he shook his head. "You're still drunk."
"Maybe," I stepped forward, touching his chest. I set the glass of water down on the night stand, and slid my hand up his arm. "But I still know what I like."
"You like me, huh?" he chuckled, grasping my wrist lightly as my hand came to rest over his heart.
"I think so," I tilted my head to the side and pressed up against him. His arm encircled me automatically, and he pulled my wrist forward until our lips were only an inch away.
"What do you like about me?" He breathed, and my knees went weak.
"I like your touch," I stared at his lips as I spoke, breathing him in. My heart thudded in my chest, and I could feel him breathing steadily against me.
"What else?" he pressed, tilting his head slightly. His features were dimly illuminated from the moonlight streaming through the window. Butterflies fluttered in my stomach.
"Your voice," I said. "Your eyes, your hair, your smile. Your personality. I like the feel of you against me, and the brush of your lips."
"And what don't you like," his hand slid down my arm, and he pulled me closer.
"I don't like that you're guarded with me. I don't like how angry you get sometimes. I hate that you're so distant. I hate how you treat me so kindly. I hate how I can't hate you," the words came out in a hazy rush. "I hate that you make me want you. I hate that you're so easy to talk to. I hate that I want to trust you. I hate the way you make me feel. But what I hate the most," I paused, taking a deep breath. "Is that you're making me learn to l-"
His lips pressed against mine, cutting off my words. "You're too honest when you're drunk, you know," he was breathless. His lips met mine again, and our conversation was forgotten as heat burned through me.
My heart stuttered and hitched in my chest as I wrapped my arms around his neck. My fingers tangled in his hair as I pressed closer, moving my lips against his. My body burned as he returned my kiss, cupping my face.
He pushed me back abruptly. "Bed time, love," he said, scooping me up into his arms. I giggled as he tossed me lightly onto the mattress. I grabbed his hand before he could go, and pulled him to me a little to roughly.
He wasn't expecting the force of my movements, and he stumbled forward, catching himself on the bed. His hands were on either side of my body. He was close enough that I didn't have to stretch far to find his lips in the dark.
"Okay," he said a moment later, climbing over me and leaning his back against the assorted pillows. I turned and climbed onto his lap, straddling him. I kissed him again and his arms encircled me, pulling me close.
I wrapped my arms around his neck, deepening the kiss. He was warm, and I was completely intoxicated by him. I slid my tongue against his lower lip and he stiffened, pushing me back.
"No," he said.
"But why?" I asked. "Why won't you touch me anymore?"
"Nevaeh," he chuckled, caressing my face lightly. "I may not be the most moral or respectable man in the world, but it would be wrong to sleep with you while you're too intoxicated to know what you're doing."
"I know what I'm doing," I grumbled as he slid me off of his lap and wrapped his arm around me. I rested my head on his chest, listening to his steady heart beat.
"If you still want this in the morning, maybe we can work something out," he chuckled. "For now, try to get some sleep."
"Fine," I yawned, closing my eyes and snuggling closer to him. My muscles still felt somewhat numbed, and I really was exhausted. He began to sing softly, running his fingers up and down my arm. I recognized the lullaby immediately.
"My mother used to sing that to me when I couldn't sleep," I said, resting my hand on his stomach.
"I know," he murmured. "Natalia taught it to me."
He continued to sing quietly, and I quickly began to drift. His melody followed me as I fell asleep, and lulled me into a deep and dreamless unconsciousness.
___________________________________
The feel of his fingers gently stroking my arm was the first thing I registered as I began to wake. A light pressure brushed twice against my parted lips and my eyes fluttered open. He was close, and I could taste his sweet breath on my tongue.
"Good morning, love," he caressed my cheek. His fingers ran through my loose hair lightly. He was propped up on his elbow, watching me closely. When did I undo my hair? I couldn't remember much after I'd started drinking, up until I woke puking. I blushed crimson at the memory of my behavior afterwards. "Why are you blushing?" he asked curiously, his eyes meeting mind.
"I'm remembering how I assaulted you last night," I admitted, catching his hand. He laced our fingers together.
"That was hardly assault," he chuckled. "I was a willing victim."
"It didn't seem like it," I laughed lightly, turning on to my side to face him.
"Why? Because I wouldn't sleep with you while you were drunk?" he smirked, pulling me closer by the waist.
"Something like that," I blushed again, my pulse beginning to race.
"Well," he murmured, tilting my chin up to look at him. "I can rectify that."
His lips molded against mine, passionate and sweet. Fire tore through my veins as my heart faltered and butterflies began to flutter in my stomach. This combination of feelings almost made me dizzy.
I gripped his shoulders as he pulled me on top of him, his hands gripping my hips. Our lips moved in sync, fueling the fire burning in my chest. His hand slid up my body, and his fingers laced trough my hair as his tongue slid against my lower lip. I shuddered, touching his cheek as I parted my lips.
Our tongues tangled, and our lips moved more passionately together. I gasped for air against him, drowning in his kisses. I knew for a fact I was right about one thing last night. I did like him. A lot more than I should. It feels so good to be with him.
I paused and pulled back, remembering the rest of the conversation from last night. But what I hate the most is that you're making me learn to... What had I planned to end that sentence with? Love? I wondered. I shook my head. No. No way. I've never been in love with anyone. The sex was nice, and the kissing and everything else was amazing, but there was no way I could ever fall for Noah. Right?
"What's wrong?" he murmured, caressing my cheek. His onyx eyes were examining my face, lit with lovely flecks of amber and gold.
"Nothing," I shook my head, leaning down to kiss him again. He kissed me back briefly, but he was too curious to continue with our earlier passion.
"Then what are you thinking about?" he asked, sitting up with me still on his lap. His arms encircled me automatically as he tried to read my expression.
"It doesn't matter," I blushed, turning my head.
"And now you're blushing. You're reactions to your own thoughts are fascinating," he chuckled. "Tell me."
"You really," I looked at him. "Really do not want to know."
"Oh, but I really do want to," he smirked.
"Fine," I sighed. "All I can say is that I'm completely, and totally enchanted by you."
"Please explain," he breathed. I could swear he was blushing slightly.
"Your touch leaves me trembling. Your kiss ignites me. Your embrace makes me burn. When I'm with you," I was blushing deeper now. "I feel things I've never felt for anyone before. I don't know what any of it means, but a part of me doesn't want it to ever end."
He groaned. "This is wrong."
"What?" I asked, confused.
"To damn myself is one thing," he sighed. "But to drag you into it is a whole other matter," he cupped my face. "You can't feel that way."
"You can't just tell someone how to feel," I glared at him.
"I know," he said, kissing me lightly. "I'm just sorry I've drug you down with me."
"What are you talking about?" I shook my head, confused.
"Oh, love," he smiled sadly. "You are so oblivious."
"So you've said," I rolled my eyes. "Look, for what it's worth, I'm glad I met you. And I'm glad you saved my life. Suicide was never the way out. I realize that now," I paused. "So please, don't shut me out anymore. I can't stand it. If I'm going to spend my life as whatever I am to you, I want to at least be friends."
"Friends," he said absently. "I suppose we can try that. But I don't think friends kiss," he teased, running his thumb lightly over my lower lip.
"Friends with benefits," I smiled wryly.
"Okay," he murmured, kissing me again.
"What's on the agenda for today?" I asked when he pulled back.
"Nathan will be here at noon to take us to Saffron," he said. "What would you like for breakfast? Anything you want."
"Strawberry waffles," I grinned.
"Strawberry waffles it is then," he smiled, sliding me off of his lap. I followed him down to the kitchen, and he immediately got to work.
"Who taught you how to cook?" I wondered.
"My mom," he answered simply, pouring a waffle mix into a bowl.
"Your mom taught you a lot of things, didn't she?" I sat on a barstool, watching him.
"She always believed a man should be able to do everything a woman can," he smirked, his eyes full of saddened fondness.
"We're you close to her?" I asked.
"Very," he said, beginning to stir the bowl as he added various ingredients. "She didn't work, so I spent a lot of time with her growing up."
"What did she look like?" I wondered.
"I look a lot like my father at this age, but I have her eyes. She had corn silk hair, and pale skin. She was very beautiful," he answered.
"If she had your eyes," I began, but I let my voice trail off as I realized what I was saying.
"Continue," he pressed, chopping strawberries.
"If she had your eyes, then I'm certain she was lovely," I blushed and avoided his eyes.
"Oh," he frowned, as though he didn't like my response. He probably didn't. I thought, tracing the marbled pattern on the counter with my finger.
"Did you have any siblings?" I wondered as he poured the waffle mix into an iron.
"I had a brother," he said. "He was born two years before me. He committed suicide after the rest of our family was," his words cut off abruptly. I understood. After your family, and my sister, were murdered.
"I'm sorry," I said. I knew how badly it hurt to lose everything and everyone you know. "And your father?"
"He was a stranger to me. I never saw him around the house other than dinner, and he was always working," Noah said slowly. "But, he was still my father."
I didn't know what to say, so I just watched as he plated the waffles and decorated them in whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and syrup. He handed me my plate and sat beside me, pouring us both a glass of milk.
"This is really good," I said as I swallowed the first bite.
"I think you picked a good breakfast," he agreed, taking a bite.
"Oh yeah," I nodded, sipping my milk. "What's your favorite food?"
"Steak and potatoes," he chuckled. "You?"
"German pancakes with lemon juice and powdered sugar. My mother used to make it every Sunday," I responded, taking another bite of my fluffy waffle. The clock above the oven said it was just past nine.
He ate quickly, and rinsed his plate, setting it in the sink. "I'm gonna go take a shower," he walked towards me, caressing my cheek as he leaned forward and planted a kiss on my forehead.
"Alright," I said around another bite. He moved towards the bathroom while I finished my breakfast.
I browsed the books as the water ran in the bathroom. I selected a fantasy novel and settled into the couch, turning to the first page.
It began with a male heroine from a family of superheroes. Of course, he had a crush, and she was oblivious to his secret. I was just getting to the part where he's forced to use his powers to save her, when Noah exited the bathroom.
He was wearing faded black jeans and a white button up. His damp hair shone with droplets of water. He sunk onto the couch beside me and turned on the TV.
"You can keep reading if you like," he said. "Don't let me interrupt you."
"I think I'll watch TV with you," I closed the book and curled up next to him, leaning my head on his shoulder. His arm encircled me and he pulled me closer as he selected a documentary on predatory animals. Wild cats, wolves, foxes, and various others were featured in it. Of course, some of them were extinct, but the documentary claimed that scientists were working on a way to bring them back.
His fingers trailed up and down my arm as we watched, soft against my skin. It was nice, being held like this. He smells so good. And he's warm. I thought as I snuggled closer. He turned slightly, brushing a kiss on my forehead as the documentary showed a hyena going in for the kill. The footage was old, pixelated, and blurry. It wasn't the usual perfect film shone on TV and movies.
The time passed quickly, and soon enough bell boys entered the room to transfer our things. I took a quick shower and pulled on jeans and a white blouse before joining Noah at the front door.
We followed the bell boys down to the lobby, and helped Nathan load everything into the trunk of the car before climbing in.
"We'll be stopping for lunch before leaving Cerulean. Is there anything in particular that you would like?" Noah asked as he poured himself a glass of brandy.
"I don't know any restaurants," I said, settling into the seat across from him.
"Nathan," Noah said, a small smile forming on his full lips. "Take us to C'est Délicieux."
"Good choice, Mr. Ivanov," Nathan responded from behind the divider.
"What is Sedelishu?" I asked curiously.
"C'est Delicieux," he corrected me, sipping his brandy. "It's a restaurant based on an old country that was called France."
"France?" I asked, trying to remember if I'd ever heard of it before. The name sounded vaguely familiar.
"It was completely wiped out in World War VI," he explained. "It was one of the only countries left out of anarchy."
"What is anarchy?" I wondered. We weren't taught much about the old world, but some people, particularly the founding families and high ranking citizens, had access to more detailed history books and lessons.
"Anarchy," he thought for a moment. "If a government is ignored, or goes out of power, and it leaves people to govern themselves, it typically brings about chaos and disorder. This is called anarchy."
"Anarchy," I repeated the word, memorizing the definition easily.
"What other countries were left?" I wondered.
"Most of Europe stayed intact up until the war. Then, there was the United States, Canada, China, Brazil, Japan, and Russia," he said after a moment of thought.
"How do you remember all of this?" I wondered.
"History has always been an enjoyable subject for me," he answered. "So, I use every possible opportunity to study it."
"How did things end up like this?" I mumbled. He must not have heard me, because he didn't respond. It was a dangerous question, anyway.
A few moments later, Nathan pulled into a parking space. I followed Noah out of the car after Nathan opened the door for us.
"Enjoy your lunch," Nathan said as he moved back to the drivers seat.
"Aren't you joining us?" I asked curiously.
"No," he shook his head and smiled. "I am going to find my lunch elsewhere. I'll be back to pick you up when you're finished."
"Alright," I said as Noah moved towards the front doors. I followed after him quickly, catching up as a waitress sorted through menus.
"Table for two, private," Noah said as she turned to face us. She was beautiful, with caramel hair and ivory skin. Her blue eyes softened as she took him in.
"Of course, sir," she gave him a winning smile, and led us through the crowded rooms to a booth in the back. I slid into the seat, and he sat across from me. "Your waitress will be out shortly," she said, looking at me with a bored expression.
"Thank you," Noah said, though he didn't look at her as she set our menus in front of us and walked away.
I flipped through the menu, not recognizing any of the names. "You're gonna have to order for me," I laughed lightly, gesturing to the menu. "I don't know what any of this is."
"Alright," he smiled softly as a curvy, and lovely redhead approached our table.
"What can I get you to drink?" She asked, brushing her bright red hair over her shoulder and batting her lashes. She was staring at Noah, and it almost bothered me.
"Whiskey on the rocks, stirred, and a strawberry lemonade," he said. He hadn't even bothered to look up from his menu. "And for our food, two medium bowls of bouillabaisse."
"Is there anything else I can get you?" She batted her lashes. "Anything at all?"
"No," he said, still unnoticing as she flirted with him. She paid no attention to me, likely having noticed the tattooed dot on the inside of my wrist.
"I'll return shortly," she gave up and walked away with our menus.
"Wow," I said, examining him. He looked up and raised an eyebrow at me.
"What?" he asked.
"Did you not notice how she was flirting with you?" I teased.
"I did. And?" he inquired . "Should I have feigned attraction. Or," he smiled suddenly. "Are you jealous?"
"I'm not," I blushed and stared at the table. Is that what this feeling is? I wondered as my stomach and heart constricted. If he had been interested, would I have been upset?
"Hey," he grabbed my hand from across the table. "You have nothing to be jealous of."
"I am not jealous," I glared up at him from beneath my eyelashes as I adjusted my blouse.
"Alright," he chuckled, releasing me. I could still feel his warmth on my hand.
"Whiskey on the rocks, stirred, strawberry lemonade, and two steaming bowls of bouillabaisse," our waitress said as she approached our table. She set our drinks and food on the table, then turned to Noah.
"I'll be back to check on you. Let me know if I can get you anything else," she said. This time, Noah turned to look at her, his dark eyes smoldering. He smiled softly at her and my heart squoze uncomfortably in my chest.
"I think this will be all," he slipped her a thick roll of paper bills. "Thank you very much, Anna," he said, reading her name tag. His voice was seductive and smooth, and she was blushing and swaying in reaction.
"A-alright," she stuttered as she backed away from the table. "Enjoy your meal."
"Did you have to dazzle her like that?" I rolled my eyes, brushing off my discomfort.
"I did," he chuckled. "Your expression is priceless."
"So you gave her a heart attack for my expression?" I said, trying the food. It was amazing.
"A heart attack?" he questioned curiously.
"You tend to have that effect on people," I muttered around another bite.
"Do I have that effect on you?" he wondered.
"Occasionally," I admitted. It's much more than just occasionally, though. I thought bitterly as I took another bite.
"Fascinating," he smirked, as he sipped his whiskey. "I suppose I'll have to pay more attention to you when I speak, then."
"Why?" I wondered.
"I like seeing you blush," he shrugged, taking another bite of his bouillabaisse.
"That's not weird at all," I said sarcastically, rolling my eyes. He chuckled, but gave no other response. "This is delicious."
"I thought you'd like it. The flavors are balanced well," he answered.
"Is this your favorite restaurant?" I wondered.
"It's my favorite restaurant in Cerulean," he said, taking another bite.
"How is your meal?" Our waitress interrupted us as she approached our table.
"It's lovely. Can you bring us the bill?" Noah asked, looking up at her again. He didn't smile this time, and she seemed taken off guard.
"Of course, sir," she said, hurrying away. I didn't blame her. His mood swings were scary sometimes.
I finished off my food and drink while we waited for her to return. His expression suggested that he was deep in thought, so I didn't disturb him. Soon enough, the waitress returned. She didn't say anything as he slid cash into the folder and handed the bill back to her.
"Shall we?" he looked at me as he stood. I slid from the booth and followed him out of the crowded restaurant.
Nathan was already waiting for us outside the front doors. He opened the car door as we approached. I gripped Noah's hand as I ducked inside. He followed immediately after, settling into the seat beside me.
I leaned against him tiredly. I hadn't gotten the best sleep last night, and figured I might be able to catch up with a nap on the way to Saffron.
"Are you going to sleep?" he asked when we pulled back into the main road.
"If you'll let me," I mumbled as his arm encircled me. He kissed the top of my head, but stayed silent. His scent filled me, calming me as I began to drift.
What felt like only moments later, the car came to a stop outside another hotel. I followed Noah and the bellboy up to the tenth floor, feeling more exhausted than I'd been before my nap.
Again, the room looked out over the city. It had all the essentials, with themed colors of red and black. It was elegant and lovely, with white walls and red wooden floors. Everything aside from the bathroom was open and visible from the front door.
"Go get ready. We've only got 45 minutes," Noah nudged me towards the bedroom. I sorted out my clothes and make up and rushed to the bathroom.
I pulled on a royal blue high-low dress with lace sleeves, and more silver heels. I did my make up similarly to the night before, and slipped silver hoops into my ears. The rest of my time was spent curling my hair and pulling it up into a half ponytail.
"You look lovely," Noah said as he leaned against the bathroom door. "I'll never understand how girls can do that."
"Do what?" I wondered, turning to look at him.
"Hair, makeup, heels," he shrugged. "It seems uncomfortable."
"It is," I shrugged. "I guess we just like to look pretty."
"Pretty is a word that will never suit you," he frowned, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. "Stunning is more accurate. Don't downplay yourself."
"A-alright," I stuttered, blushing deeply. He laughed and led me from the room.
My heels clicked down the hallway, echoing loudly. Several people were waiting in front of the elevators, and we followed them in when it opened. A woman with a hysterical toddler kept apologizing to everyone as the elevator began to move down. It was a relief to my ears when we exited the elevator and wound through the lobby. Soon enough, we were back in the car, on the way to the Bancroft's manor.
Noah wasn't wearing a suit tonight. He only wore black suit pants, a button up shirt, and a black tie. His hair was styled as it always was, and yet he pulled it off. He would look more formal than anyone else.
I fidgeted in the seat as he poured another brandy. I really hated social events. I could feel my palms sweating again, and
I wiped them off on the seat.
Twenty minutes later, we reached the outskirts of saffron. Lights were visible from the top of a hill, and the car began to climb the drive, stopping moments later, in front of the expansive yard.
I followed Noah from the car as a chilly breeze blew fiercely past us. Snow was falling quickly, flakes spinning to the ground. The night sky was cloudy, and my breath crystallized before my face.
Again, we were greeted by the head of the family and his wife as we entered the manor. It was extravagant and beautifully decorated, with white tiles and yellow papered walls.
I fidgeted restlessly as Noah conversed with them, looking around for Finch, Nora, and Lizzy. It didn't seem like I'd be rescued any time soon, so I turned to watch the party.
People were standing around, chatting casually in vibrant dresses and neat suits. Tables laden with appetizers and cocktails were everywhere, covered by white table cloths and red rose bouquets. I'd never liked roses. They were too standard for everything. My eyes had always been drawn to sunflowers, tulips, and carnations.
"Nevaeh," Noah said a moment later. He kept distance between us now, whenever other people were around. I'd noticed this last night, too. "You can go enjoy the party. I have some business to attend to."
"Okay," I said. He walked off with Mr. Bancroft without a glance at me.
I turned and scanned the room again as I wound through the crowd. I couldn't see my friends anywhere. Maybe they haven't gotten here yet.
"Well, hello again, beautiful," a hand caught my arm. I turned to face the man from last night. His dark hair shone in the bright lights. The sun bursts in his ocean blue eyes immediately entranced me. His features were thin, yet defined, aside from his slightly fuller lips that were parted in a soft smile. He was tall, and lean. "Nevaeh, right?" he asked in a smooth, honeyed tone.
"Y-yes," I stuttered as he released my arm. "I don't think I ever got your name, though."
"Zennith Taiyo Nakamura, at your service," he bowed dramatically before smiling at me again. "But you can just call me Zen."
"Oh, um," I faltered. For a citizen, he was oddly courteous towards me. And he wasn't just any citizen. He was a member of a founding family. "It's nice to meet you."
"Tell me, who are you here with?" he smirked attractively. He had more charisma than should be possible and it left me feeling dazed.
"Um, I'm with N-Mr. Ivanov," I corrected myself. I couldn't look away from those eyes.
"You're with Noah?" he smiled. "He, Angelina, and I were best friends growing up."
"He never told me," I shook my head lightly, finally breaking away from his powerful gaze.
"That sounds like him," Zen said wryly. "You look lovely this evening."
"Oh, thank you," I fidgeted with my dress and blushed, feeling embarrassed.
"Well, perhaps we'll run into each other again," he said, kissing the back of my hand. "I'll let you enjoy the party. I saw your friends at the bar a little while ago."
"Thanks," I said, hurrying in the direction he'd pointed out. What is with him? He's weird. I thought as I caught sight of Nora. I walked over to her slowly, feeling a little less nervous now that I was near someone I knew.
"Hey, Tiny," Lizzy grinned as she caught sight of me.
"Hey Liz," I smiled back. "Where's Finch?"
"He's probably not here yet," Nora shrugged.
"He told us he kissed you last night," Lizzy giggled. "It's that true?"
"I thought I dreamed that part," I blushed. "It's hazy."
"Was it good?" Nora grinned as she and Lizzy gripped my wrists.
"Probably," I shrugged. "I can't really remember."
"Awe, that's mean, Tiny," a husky voice said behind me. We turned towards Finch, and I blushed deeper as he smirked at me. "Should I kiss you again so you can be certain? It might make you remember better, too."
"Shut up, Fin," I muttered, mortified. This made the three of them burst in to laughter.
"She's cute when she's blushing," Nora said to Finch, her tone teasing.
"Yeah, unlike her normal look," Lizzy agreed, grinning widely.
"You guys are jerks," I laughed, taking a cocktail from a passing caterer. I tried it hesitantly as the others took their own. It wasn't as good as some of the drinks from last night, which had been stronger than I'd thought, but this new drink held its own.
"What are these called?" Nora asked the caterer.
"Cosmopolitan," he answered shortly before wandering away.
"I like it," Lizzy said a moment later.
"I don't," Nora blanched.
"It's not my favorite, but it's not bad," Finch said.
"It's alright," I shrugged, taking another sip.
"How was your travels?" Nora asked Finch.
"Obnoxious. She made me sleep with her in the car, and then she couldn't stop talking about how amazing Mr. Ivanov is in bed," he rolled his eyes. "There's nothing that can kill a guys confidence faster."
"Is he great in bed?" Lizzy asked me. Their eyes all fell on me as I blushed.
"I would say so," my voice was tight with embarrassment.
"You're so lucky," Nora sighed. "My master is terrible.
"Mine too," Lizzy nodded. Finch said nothing as he took a crystal bowl of chips and salsa from another caterer.
"Can we change the subject?" I asked awkwardly.
"Yeah, please," Finch agreed.
"Oh, alright," Lizzy laughed.
"The two of you are so pure," Nora teased, grinning.
"Well, that means a you and Lizzy are vulgar," Finch nudged her playfully.
"Maybe so," Lizzy chuckled. "But at least we don't get embarrassed by everything."
"Hey. I'm not Nevaeh," Finch grinned, winking at me.
"Oh my god, guys," I rolled my eyes, finishing off my drink.
"I think he's everyone's god," Finch pursed his lips.
"Wow," Lizzy said. "That was one of the dumbest things you've said yet, Brains."
"You'd think someone that smart would have better jokes," Nora agreed, nodding dramatically.
"You two are assholes," Finch laughed.
"We know," Lizzy sighed dreamily.
"Yet, you love us anyway," Nora smiled beautifully.
"True," Finch mussed her hair.
My bracelet vibrated, making me jump. I tapped it to check my messages. I still wasn't used to this thing. The message was from Noah.
I'm in the library.
"I have to go find Noah," I said, turning the hologram off.
"I'll come with you," Finch said, finishing off his chips and setting the bowl on the bar.
"Do you know where the library is?" I asked as we left Nora and Lizzy.
"Actually, yes," he said. "Ms. Gray made me follow her there the second we arrived."
"Oh," I said uncomfortably, my stomach cramping. Did he tell her to meet him there? I wondered as we wove through the crowd.
Finch pushed a set of doors open a moment later, and we passed through. Around two dozen people were standing around, chatting in designer clothing. Noah was in the corner, conversing with his own small group. I approached him nervously.
As always, Angelina was clinging to his arm, and he payed no mind to her. Zen was talking to him, smiling. He winked at me as I stopped beside Noah. Angelina's reaction to my presence was the exact opposite.
"Give me one moment, Nevaeh," Noah said, pulling his arm free from Angelina's grasp.
"Hello again, gorgeous," Zen greeted me.
"H-hey," I responded shyly. Noah finished the conversation quickly and turned to face me.
"Are you ready to go?" he asked.
"Already?" Zen frowned slightly. "The two of you have only been here for an hour.
"Yes, well, you know how I dislike parties," Noah turned back to him, his eyes narrowed.
"I do, however, she hasn't experienced all of our parties yet," Zen nodded towards me. Noah hesitated.
"That's alright," I said slowly. "I'm very tired." Honestly, I just wanted to leave.
"I see," Zen smiled softly.
"She's just an entertainer," Angelina cut in, her eyes narrowed at me. "She doesn't matter, anyway. However," she wrapped her arms around Noah like vices. "I'm sad to see you go, Noah."
"You'll see me tomorrow evening," he responded in clear annoyance as he unwound himself.
"True. You should take me to dinner before hand," she smiled. I disguised my grimace with a small cough.
"There will be dinner at the party," Noah shook his head, declining politely. "Perhaps another time."
"Very well," she said soberly. I turned to Finch and embraced him.
"See you later, Brains," I grinned up at him.
"Later, Tiny," he smiled back, and hugged be tightly.
"Oh, how adorable," Angelina said in a sickeningly sweet voice as I released him. "Our little birds would make a lovely couple." I blushed and ducked my head at her words.
Noah rolled his eyes and grabbed my wrist, pulling me with him. "I've said this too many times," he called over his shoulder as we left the room. "I don't share."