I arrived at Evan’s apartment complex and parked. I grabbed my bag out of the backseat. I headed around the other side to Riley’s apartment and made my way up the stairs and down the hall to apartment 209. I took in a deep breath and knocked on the door a couple times. I heard a dog bark pretty loud as I stood there waiting. I knocked again after a few minutes, and still heard nothing but the dog. She must not be home. Maybe she works Sundays.
I turned around and headed down to Evan’s apartment.
Evan opened the door. “Hey, thought we were meeting at the beach?” He asked confused to see me.
“Oh, right, I forgot. My bad.”
“It’s cool, come on in while I grab my bag.”
“All right.” I sat down on the couch to wait.
I looked around. The TV was off, and the apartment was pretty quiet. “Abby working today?”
“Nah, man. Abby and Riley went grocery shopping together.”
So, she wasn’t working. That was excellent news for me.
“Oh cool. How long have you known Riley?”
“Just a few months, man. She became friends with Abby since about the first day she moved here. Abby noticed her dog and made small talk. She realized she had just moved in, and offered to help her unpack and to help her shop for furniture. They started talking, and Abby got her a job. Best friends since, dude.”
“She’s cool,” I added.
“Yeah, man, she’s a great girl. She’s sweet, and I’m totally glad she came into Abby’s life. Abby needs the great friendship they have.”
“She’s single right?” I asked nonchalantly.
“As far as I know. She’s here quite often and never mentioned any guys.”
“There’s just this vibe I got from her, man.”
“What’s this I hear you went to Eddie’s and over paid your meal? Since when do you go to the pub?” Evan asked me walking back in the room with his bag around his shoulder, sliding his wallet in his pants.
“Word gets around fast, huh? I like her, just wanted to stop in, eat and say hi.”
“Well, she’s all yours, man.” Evan chuckled.
Riley
“So do you think you like him?” Abby asked while pushing her cart into mine making me laugh.
“I don’t know, Abby. I don’t know what I want with my life right now.” I said putting a gallon of orange juice in my cart.
“Ry, I didn’t ask you about what you wanted in your life. I asked you if you liked Dustin?”
“I don’t—”
Abby cut me off, “Yes or no?”
“Yes, but I don’t know if I’m ready.” I shot an annoyed look at her.
“Riley Grace Miller, you already slept with him, the hard part is over, you have to be ready, or you wouldn’t have allowed yourself to do that.” She laughed stopping my cart.
“Thanks, Abby.” I rolled my eyes. It felt good to be able to talk about Dustin with someone. If Abby had not become such a close friend, I could never have told her that I had already slept with him. A lesser friend would have judged me right away, but Abby accepted it for what it was.
“I’m serious. I haven’t known you for a long time, but I know that you’re genuine. I know you’re not a slut that sleeps around. You slept with Dustin because you had feelings for him, you like him. It’s ok to like him.” Abby reminded me.
“Want to know what he said to me?”
“Details, please!” She smiled and then endured hearing all the juicy details.
I leaned against the freezer door. “He asked me if I’d ever had a life situation that I knew was meant to be. You feel that you must do something because if you didn’t risk it, or take the chance at an opportunity, you would regret it later.”
“Yeah and…” She circled her hand to tell me to continue.
“I told him that sometimes you have to ask yourself if it’s worth the risk to chance it.” I took a deep breath and let it out. “Then he kissed me, and he asked me if the risk had been worth it? It was the sweetest thing any man has ever said to me, Abby.”
“The risk of sleeping with him? Girl, you’re naïve.” Abby laughed.
“No, that he took a risk with me not knowing if I was going to like it, go along with it, like him, and then chose to still get to know him.”
“But you ran away, and you haven’t spoken since.” Abby shook her head confused.
“Like I was trying to explain to you—yeah, I like him, but, I don’t know if I’m ready for him.”
“I know Dustin pretty well. He’s one of Evans’ best friends. He’s a good guy, Riley, and you should give him a chance.”
“Give me three reasons why I should?”
“Ok, well for one, he’s like the sweetest guy ever. Secondly, he’s polite and has outstanding manners. And third, well, he’s very good-looking.”
I looked at Abby with a blank look on my face. I want so badly for this to happen, but I was just so scared it wouldn’t work out. I’ve never dated somebody I felt was so out of my league before.
“His Dad owns Eddie’s Seaside Pub. I don’t know if I want to be sleeping with my boss’s son.”
Abby’s phone went off, which caused us to have to put our girl talk on hold.
“Hey, baby.” Abby answered on speakerphone.
“Hey, wanna watch us play v-ball?”
“For sure, I’ll bring Riley. We just have to finish shopping, and then we’ll head over.”
“Love you, baby cakes.” Evan sweetly proclaimed.
“Love you too, sugar bun.” Abby hung up.
They always say the weirdest things when they call one another. They were too cute for each other. I couldn’t help but think Abby was right—maybe I should give Dustin a chance.
“I’m dragging you to the beach, and we’re going to watch Evan and Dustin, and the guys play some volleyball. No if, ands, or buts—you’re coming Riley Grace Miller.”
“That actually sounds like a beautiful plan. We need to run home first. I want to get my suit so I can sunbathe.” A broad grin grew across my face.
“You just want to gloat your stunning body some more in front of Dustin.” Abby cachinnated.
“Stop laughing. My body has to go on a diet before you can say it’s stunning,” I joked.
“Oh, please. You’re a skinny bitch!”
“I could make this body look better, Abby.”
“Girl, Dustin obviously likes you as you are. So just chill out, Riley.”
I smiled and pushed my cart ahead. “I need a few more things then I’ll be done.” I hurried down the aisles and picked out some items I can make for dinner this week. Once I was finished, I checked out and waited for Abby. I waited for her patiently with Dustin on my mind. The knowledge of seeing him today gave me butterflies.
“Let’s go unload our groceries, get in our suits, and head out of here. Time to enjoy our Sunday!” Abby clapped her hands and headed out to her SUV.
“Sounds like a plan!” She could see the excitement in my eyes.
We loaded our groceries into her Durango and headed home. Once we unloaded our groceries, I visited Cooper briefly and searched for my swimsuit. I had a knock on my door. I rushed to the door along with Cooper who let out a few barks.
I looked through the peephole, and saw it was Abby. I opened the door, and Cooper attacked her with love. “Come on in, I’m searching for my bikini.”
“Where that sexy white one you bought at that beach store with me. I think it looks smokin’ on you!” Abby had a witty smile.
“If only I can find it!” I proclaimed.
“Find it! Hurry up, Ry!” I sighed. “I’m going to play with Cooper.”
I hurried around my bedroom and tossed my clothes everywhere to find this stupid bikini. Once I reached my closet, I could have slapped my forehead for being so brainless… “Found it!” I yelled out loud for Abby to hear me. “Let me get dressed, and I’ll be right out!”
I slipped my bikini bottoms on, tying my strings to the to
p in the back. Shit! I should have shaved! I darted into the bathroom and flung the water on, and quickly took the razor and shaved some hair off my legs. I splashed water on my legs and patted them dry. Then I yanked on a jean skirt and threw on a bright pink tank top, over my bikini. I slid my feet into black rhinestone flip-flops. My hair was blow-dried straight after my morning shower, and I pushed a headband in my hair to keep the hair out of my face. Whew, now I’m ready!
“Damn, girl. I’m jealous. Well, then again, I used to look that good for Evan until I just decided I don’t give a damn anymore.” Abby said with a sneer.
We both laughed out loud.
“Bye, Coop, be a good boy!” I threw Cooper some treats to enjoy while we were gone.
“Your car or mine?” I directed Abby.
“Don’t be silly, Riley, we’ll take mine. I know your car is on the outs, so it’s no biggie. The Durango likes to go for rides.”
Grabbing my purse and beach towel, we headed out the door and took off for the beach. We blasted the latest hip-hop tunes and sang along cheerfully as we made our way there.
** CHAPTER 4 **
Dustin
I served the ball, and tried to get into my game spirit. We were almost done with the game when I saw, Abby and Riley laying their beach towels on the sand. I had to do a double take because I was shocked to see Riley. Then, all I could do was stare as she was undressing, and was then in only her bikini. Simply stunning! I focused back on the game, spiked the ball to the other side of the court, and made a winning score. The guys on my team all yelled and cheered for me for scoring the winning point. Evan yelled for me, and we ran over to the girls. Evan heaped Abby up in his arms and hugged her while spinning her around.
“Hey, Riley.” I grinned walking over to where their towels were laying.
“Hey, Dustin. Looks like you guys had a good game.”
“It was a good game. We won!” I said excitedly. Riley, can we talk, please. I just want to talk, I promise.” I offered my hand to her.
“Sure.” She said sharply. I helped her off the ground as we started to walk away.
Abby winked at me and smiled. “Ok, you guys, see you in a bit.”
I took Riley’s hand, which felt so smooth to the touch, and we walked away from the others.
“So do you think we can start over? I mean, not start over, but I just really want to talk to you. I’m actually surprised you came.” I lifted her hand to my mouth and gently planted a sweet, soft kiss.
She looked at me and tried to smile, but I could tell something was on her mind. “Converse with me, Riley.”
We reached a spot where I was able to finally pull her aside and talk to her privately. I focused all my attention on her.
“Dustin, I don’t sleep around,” She reminded me. “In fact, you’re only the second person I’ve been with.”
“I know that. I never thought you were like that.” I chimed in.
“Let me talk, please?” She demanded.
“Go ahead.” I raised my hand in a circular motion to signal for her to keep going.
Gosh, she looks so beautiful. She’s standing in front of me in this adorable, sexy bikini. I can’t help but keep my eyes on her.
She looked directly at me and began to talk. “The only thing I can make sense of is that I want to get to know you. What I didn’t know is that your Dad owns Eddie’s Seaside Pub. You have been on my mind a lot Dustin; I’ve just been embarrassed. I left for two reasons—I felt awkward, and I had to get home to walk my dog.” Riley sighed. “I just am not sure what I want in my life right now. I don’t know if I have time for a guy as I much as I want to see if this works.”
I was flabbergasted. I wasn’t sure I knew how to respond. All I knew is that her touch drove me wild. I wanted nothing more than to get to know her. I wanted to just nestle myself up to her and do everything in my power to make her want to be with me. I knew I needed to say all the right things.
“I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you about my father, I really am. I don’t like discussing my father’s business. It’s a long story, but we haven’t gotten along in a few years. I want you to feel comfortable with me. I haven’t felt so strongly for someone I barely knew before in my life. No girl has ever made me feel like I feel when I’m around you. Please, we’ll make time. Just give me one chance, that’s all I ask.”
I spoke the honest truth. I just want her to give me one chance.
“How do we do this? Do we start backwards since we’ve already slept together?”
“How about this,” I took both of her hands squeezing them in mine, “Would you like to go on an official date with me, Riley?”
“Only if it’s official,” She had a very sarcastic tone.
I snickered. “I’m making it official. When is your free night?” I asked.
“I’m off Wednesday this week.”
“I work until three. I can pick you up at five for dinner, and possibly a movie if you’re up for it?”
“Sounds like a plan. Maybe we should get back to the others?”
I leaned down and placed my lips on hers. I slid my hands through her soft, silky, wind tossed hair. She wrapped her arms around me as I intensified the kiss. I pushed my tongue through and twirled it around her mouth. She let out a soft moan and shoved her tongue further down my throat. Then she pulled back.
“Come on, or they might send search and rescue for us.” She grinned and licked her lips.
“I agree!”
I held her hand, and we walked through the dry sand back to the courts.
Maybe she really does dig me. I can’t wait to take her out on an official date. Riley is just amazing. She’s gorgeous, and her ass has a perfectly round shape with just enough plump to it.
Abby saw us walking back up and just had to say it. “I was about to send a search party if you were gone much longer!” Abby winked at us.
“We’re fine, Abby. So, what’s the plan? We should get some grub.” Riley suggested.
“Yeah, after this game. I’m actually starving, and it’s almost dinner time.” I added.
“I’m in. Let’s go to Crazy Locks. They have any kind of food you want there, that way there’s a variety,” Evan said shaking the sand off his towel.
“Sounds good.” I said. “Riley, you want to ride with me?” I asked as I nudged my arm into hers playfully.
Abby shot her a look, and Evan looked out over the ocean. “Yeah, that’s fine I’ll ride with you.” Riley took my hand.
“So, you guys like a thing now or something?” Abby grinned.
“Let’s get out of here.” I gripped Riley’s hand and started heading to the cars. Abby, Evan and the guys followed us.
Riley
Once we arrived at the parking lot, I noticed something bizarre and I immediately pulled on Dustin’s arm interrupting his conversation with Evan. “Is that your Mustang?” I got his attention.
“What the hell!” Dustin cursed loudly as he ran over to the car. Once he saw the back window and his headlights bashed in, he was livid. He looked around in all directions to see if he could see anybody. Nobody in sight. Whoever did the damage was gone.
“Damn, dude, who did you piss off?” Evan peered down at the car shaking his head at the damage.
“I know the exact prick that did this. Guy tried to get fresh with my sister, and I paid him a visit warning him to stay away.” Dustin shook his head. “I thought he would know better than to mess with me.”
“Let’s call the cops. Maybe they’ll fingerprint.” I suggested.
“No, I’m not calling the police. I’m dealing with this on my own,” Dustin said as he kicked over the garbage can in the parking lot.
“Do you really think that’s a good idea?” Abby asked gripping Evan’s arm.
“Yeah, it’s my idea, and I’m sticking to it. Let’s get the hell out of here.”
Not only did it feel awkward after finding the Mustang like that, I didn’t know what to say to Dustin to make him f
eel better. I can’t believe he had threatened some guy! Maybe I don’t know him after all. Who was I kidding? I didn’t know him at all! What I did know is that he tempts me; he makes me crazy and does things I’ve only dreamed of. He challenges my mind, he fuels my desires, and from the quick peek I’ve had with him, he succeeds at satisfying my needs. He’s everything I want.
We climbed into the Mustang and he sped off toward Crazy Locks. It was awkward and quiet in the car the ride there. I had no clue what to say to him. I know he was pissed off, and maybe the best thing for me to do was to keep quiet. At least keep quiet until spoken to...
We arrived at Crazy Locks, and I thought I needed to ease the tension. I leaned over in my seat and grabbed Dustin swiftly pulling him in toward me. I pushed my lips against his and kissed him sweetly, letting him get a taste. He abruptly pulled back and pushed me away as it made me jerk toward the door.
“Now is not the time, Riley.” He snapped and got out of the car.
I got out of the car quicker than a bolt of lightning, and slammed the door shut so hard so to make sure I had his attention.
“You listen here, Dustin. If you want to dare to push me away from you, so be it. Remember, you wanted to see me. Remember, you wanted me to take a chance with you. Well, you just may have blown that out the window. I try to ease the tension in the air over something I had no control of, and this is the respect I get? You jerked away from a kiss? FINE! I don’t need men in my life that are going to push me to the side because they are pissed off about cosmetic damage that, like I said, I had no control over.” I yelled at him good. In fact, I think he was drooling from keeping his mouth open so long.
I swung my purse over my shoulder and then darted off in the opposite direction of him. I knew one thing, and one thing only, this evening was over for me. I was going home. Being a strong woman, I did not let any man walk all over me, or think they can treat me like that. No way in hell that I would let that happen. Here I was, all by myself in the middle of a state where I knew nobody, I knew I had to be strong for my own well-being. I couldn’t get caught up in a man who wouldn’t accept a simple kiss because he was so angry over something that had happened to his vehicle. Nope, that was not going to happen!
A Tattered Love Page 4
