by Amber Heart
The same boring elevator music filled my ears. When it arrived at my floor, the doors opened. I saw one of my suitcases laying idle by my door. I brought two, where on Earth is my other one? Before I could walk over to my room I heard puffing and panting. It was the worker in charge of my bags coming up the stairs. I shouted out to him "Couldn't you have brought them both up at the same time? What's wrong with you?" The worker looked at me, dropped my suitcase on the floor and stood up straight. "I had shoulder surgery a few weeks ago." I snatched my suitcase away from him "What are you telling me for, I don't care. Go away and work." I opened my door and had a look around. Basic, but it will do. Now all I need to do is make a few calls and get ready for the party.
Chapter 19
Cassandra
Tonight is going to be so much fun! Aaron and I dolled ourselves up, did our hair and put on some nice clothes. The parties are going to start soon, but we have some time to kill "You looking forward to tonight, babe?" Aaron was applying his finishing touches in the mirror "Yeah, it should be fun. I'm looking forward to having some time with the fellas. I've not seen them in ages."
Aaron walked over to me "I'm looking forward to meeting you in the hotel room after wards more though." My face turned red, he always has this affect on me "Don't get too drunk, I'm looking forward to some rough, messy sex. Don't go whiskey dick on me!" Aaron laughed "I'll keep myself in check! Lets go find Avery and Quinn and head to the parties."
We left the room and I knocked on their door "Hurry up you two, stop fucking for a second and lets go party!" Avery opened the door, her dress was beautiful and she had a smile all the way across her face. "We're not fucking anymore, that was twenty minutes ago!" I could see Quinn in the background shrugging his shoulders. Avery and I ran off to my party and we left Aaron and Quinn to do their own thing. Tonight I was going to let loose and just forget about the wedding. Time to have some fun!
Aaron
I'm glad Cass is having a good time, she has been so stressed from planning every thing. I trust Avery. She'll show Cass a good time. Quinn was just finishing up his hair "So what have you got planned tonight?" A smirk came across Quinn's face "You'll have to wait and see, mate." I leant against the door frame "Just a heads up, I don't care if you get strippers. But I'm not getting a lap dance, I'm not comfortable with that. They'll be for the lads, not me." He stood up and put his wallet in his pocket "Yeah, no worries man. I hear you. I'm the same. We've found our girls, we don't need a stripper rubbing all over us. They're for the fellas. Now lets go get drunk!"
We made our way down and just followed the sound of music. Cassandra's party was only a few rooms away from mine. The room was done up nice, a lot fancier than I was expecting. It opens up onto a giant outdoor area which looks perfect for chilling out in after wards.
Quinn dragged me to the bar "Six shots of Vodka please, pal." The bartender poured them "Three for me, three for you. Lets get a buzz going!" As we were downing the shots, all the fellas began to stumble in. A few of them were already tipsy from the free bars scattered all over the place. The DJ knew how to get a crowd going and every one was starting to get in the mood.
Quinn ordered some more drinks and while he was waiting he looked over at me "You know, you and Cassandra are really special. Avery and I had a gut feeling about you two. The way you both looked at each other at our wedding, we could just tell something was stirring and look where you both are now! In all honesty mate, I'm glad you found each other. You're perfect with each other and after all the drama you've been through with that crazy chick, you deserve happiness. I hope you love a long and happy life with her."
I was speechless, a few seconds went by "Caught me off guard that mate, warn me before we get soppy! I'm glad you feel like that because you described how I feel perfectly. I couldn't be happier right now, life is perfect." I reached over and gave him a proper bear hug. We were both insanely proud of each other. Our friendship is really something.
Half an hour passed, the party is booming. People are cheering and dancing, drinks are getting hammered back. Quinn excused himself, gee I wonder where he was going. Mark staggered over and traded places with him "Aaron! How are you?" I laughed "I'm doing good, you're a bit wobbly. Having a good time?" Mark let out an audible hiccup "I'm having a brilliant time! The party is great and this hotel is something else!"
Mark took another big swig of his drink "Look Aaron, what you and Cass have right now is something special. Don't ever throw it away or lose it. I hope you both live a wonderful life. Oh, I almost forgot to tell you. Don't think I don't notice the ridiculous hours you both work. Take as much honeymoon time as you need. You've bloody earned it!" People are really tugging on my heart strings tonight, aren't they! "Thank you for the kind words Mark and thank you for giving me the opportunity all them years ago to work for you. Without you, god knows where I'd be. You changed my life and put me on a real path. Thank you for that."
Mark reached over for a proper hug, as we let each other go, the DJ stopped the music and spoke into the microphone "Howdy gents, we've got a special surprise for you tonight!" As he said it, the doors swung open and in came a horde of strippers. All the lads roared and cheered. Mark made his way back over "That'll keep them busy for a few hours."
Kenneth
Look at them all, like a bunch of bloody animals. They see some dressed up slut with her tits out and they lose all respect for themselves. Pathetic. Still at least my girl was in the middle of that crowd. All I have to do is funnel drinks into Aaron and let her do the rest.
I make my way over to the bar and order two rum and cokes. This bartender is so painfully slow, how hard is it to pour liquid into a glass?I take both drinks and head over to the table Aaron is sat at "Aaron, have a drink with me to celebrate our future business together and your wonderful marriage with Cassandra." I acknowledge Mark and Quinn as well "Hell of a party you've thrown together guys. Looks like everyone is having a lot of fun."
Mark put his hands in the air "It was all Quinn. I had nothing to do with it. I'm having a blast!" Aaron put his hand up to block me handing him the drink "I'm not getting too drunk tonight, I'll stick with the one I've got." Typical. I bet Cassandra has got a chain round his neck. Aaron's face is different than last time. He couldn't even fake a smile for me, perhaps I'm on his bad side? If only I cared. "Ah well, more for me. I'll be at the bar." I turned around and walked away. Looks like I'll have to change to plan B.
Aaron
Mark looked at me funny "I know, I was rude. It's a long story but he is dick. In fact, he's worse than a dick, he doesn't have a good bone in his body. Disgusting and vile human being. Cass didn't want me to tell you because she didn't want to cause a fuss, she said it doesn't bother her anymore but I can tell it does. That shit stain over there at the bar tried to get my Cass to sleep with a client. When she refused, he fired her. The only reason we are tolerating that sick fuck is because of the ridiculous amount of money the agency is going to get. Everyone's bonus will be worth it"
The color of Mark's face had disappeared "Aaron, I had no idea. I swear. I didn’t think he was capable of something like that." I interrupted Mark "You've nothing to worry about Mark. I know you wouldn't have let him have his word if you knew what he was like." Mark perked up a bit "He was a bit odd when we met, but I didn't think he could be that evil and manipulative. Still, let's squeeze as much money out of him as we can."
Quinn finished his drink "Do you not think it's a bit strange that he's here? He mentioned future business. Are you working together?" I met Quinn's eyes "The profit boost we get by being friends with him is worth it." Quinn stood up "Has he only come and offered to work with your agency recently?" I nodded my head, where was he going with this? "It seems a bit too convenient that he brings you work while Cassandra is working for you, given the history. All I'm saying is keep your eye on him, he doesn't sit right with me." Quinn went outside for a smoke. What he said made sense. I'm going to stay on my toes near him.
; Kenneth
Now is my chance, that random guy sat with Mark and Aaron is gone. Mark is well passed tipsy and Aaron is an idiot. This will be a piece of cake.
I walk back over to the table and point behind them “That stripper over there has had her eye on you all night, Aaron.” Mark and Aaron turn around to look where I was pointing, while they were distracted I slip some Rohypnol into Aaron’s drink. The confusion and drowsiness from the drug will let my girl sweep in and dance all over him. All I have to do now is get Cassandra to catch him in the act.
Aaron turns to face me “Someone else can have fun with her, Cass is the only girl I need.” Arrogant little shit, just you wait. A few minutes from now you’ll be drooling all over the place. I looked over at Mark “How about you big man?” Mark laughed and backed away from the table “I’m far too old for her. I’m off to the little boys room”
I made eye contact with the escort I had hired and gave her a nod signaling that she needs to make her move in a few minutes. It’s a good job dumb whores like this will do anything for money. I move over to the bar to get a fresh drink before all the drama unfolds. This is going to be good.
Cassandra
This is the best party ever! Avery knows how to spoil me, everything is so perfect. The music is loud, everyone is dancing and having a great time. The strippers will be here any minute and the girls will absolutely love it!
Shivers ran down my spine, in the corner of my eye I saw him. That disgusting old pervert. Fuck you Kenneth James, how dare you show your face here, at my my party. I watched him like a hawk as he scanned the room, then his eyes met mine and he stared at me. He made his way over to me and I froze on the spot. My heart started beating and I wanted to kick his ugly ass.
“Cassandra, I think there’s something you need to see. It’s Aaron.” My heart dropped “What has happened to Aaron, is he okay? Is he hurt?” Kenneth shook his head “Please, just come down the hall to the other party.” I was hesitant, but I was worried about Aaron.
Kenneth and I walked down the hall and made our way into the hall where the party was being held. That’s when I saw it. Some half naked slut dancing all over my Aaron. How could he do this to me? Especially after our agreement as well. My heart was pumping so fast and I just wanted to burst into tears.
Then my brain started to kick in. I know Aaron, he wouldn’t do this. He adores me and I adore him. What we have is special. I had a flash back to the last misunderstanding like this where I caught that crazy bitch trying to rip his pants off. I stormed over towards Aaron and screamed “What the fuck is this?” The stripper turned around immediately, but Aaron didn’t even move. I took a closer look and his eyes were half open. He looked completely out of it, how much has he had to drink?
The stripper climbed off him and disappeared into the crowd of people. I crouched down to Aaron’s level and shook him “Baby? Can you hear me? Aaron!” There was still no answer, what the hell is going on? He said he wasn’t going to drink too much! I’ve never even seen him this bad.
The music was so loud, I tried getting the DJs attention but he wasn’t looking my way. Quinn stumbled through the crowd and was shocked to see me “Hey Cass, what’s up?” I was starting to get really worked up now “What is up with him? How much has he had to drink?” Quinn’s posture changed, I could tell he was worried “What do you mean?” Quinn shook Aaron’s shoulder “Buddy?”
Quinn looked at me dumbfounded “He was fine a few minutes ago, he has nursed a few drinks all night. He has had no more than usual. I went out for a smoke and left him with Mark.” Quinn turned around “Speak of the devil.” Mark was far from sober and said jokingly “Cassandra! Don’t you know it’s boys only?” I gave him an evil stare and he immediately sobered up “What’s up with Aaron?” I was really getting worked up now, tears were starting to form in my eyes. “I don’t know, Quinn said you were the last person with him. Did you do any shots?” Mark looked at me bewilderedly “God no, he has been behaving all night. Something more sinister is going on here.”
I could barely get my words out “Mark, cut the music. Quinn, call an ambulance.” My heart was going to explode. Why is this happening? Why can’t we just enjoy our parties? I dragged Aaron off the chair and lay him on the ground. The music cut off and the lights came back on. People were starting to realize something was wrong.
A crowd made its way over to me, all worried for Aaron. Quinn came running over “Back off, back off. He needs air, don’t crowd him. Take the party outside and do your own thing. We’ll take care of it.” I could hear rumbles and whispers as every one made their way out of the room. Please be okay baby, I can’t live without you.
It felt like an eternity, but an ambulance finally arrived. The paramedics checked him over, they said he was going to be okay and they let me sit in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. Please be okay.
Kenneth
Well then. That got a bit out of hand, didn’t it? I don’t know why they called an ambulance, it was nowhere near a lethal dose. He’ll be fine in the morning, just a bit hazy and won’t remember much.
I can’t account for the stupidity of these morons when I’m creating my plans. All Cassandra had to do was see my escort dancing all over Aaron, then she had to storm out of the room in disgust and then the relationship would fall apart as he tried to make amends.
But no. She had to go storming over there, didn’t she? Fucked my plans right up. So not only are they still together, I have to clean my tracks and come up with another plan to break them up. How exhausting.
Chapter 20
The Morning After
Aaron
I opened my eyes slowly, trying my best to avoid the bright light of the room. As my eyes adjusted, I started to figure out where I was. I sat up in a hospital bed with an IV stuck in my arm. Why the hell am I here? The last thing I remember is talking to Quinn and Mark around the table. I barely drank anything so I could spend the night with Cass… Where is Cass? A moment of panic takes over me and I catch a glimpse of a person next to me. It’s Cass snuggled up under a blanket asleep. It was light outside, how long have I been here?
Moving about must have awoken Cass “Aaron?” Her eyes lit up and she burst into tears. She jumped onto my bed and gave me a heart-warming hug. “Baby, I was so scared. How do you feel?”
I scratched the back of my head “I feel exhausted… What happened, why am I here?” Cass held my hand tightly “Someone spiked your drink with Rohypnol, we don’t know who and we don’t know why. But you’re safe. The doctors will let you out today and they say it will take a day or two to feel normal again.” So many thoughts were flying through my mind. I was drugged? Who the hell would drug me? How did they drug me? I need answers.
I gave Cass another big hug “I’m okay, babe. It’s going to take more than that to get rid of me.” I felt her arms tighten around me “We can’t let this distract us from the wedding. Lets get out of here!”
Cass broke the hug and gave me a kiss on the lips “Quinn, Avery, and your parents have gone to grab some breakfast. They’re bringing us something back. We’ll finish our food and show everyone you’re okay and then we’ll head back to the hotel.”
Cassandra paused for a moment “We haven’t seen Mark in a while. He was here earlier to check up on you, but he’s disappeared.” I leant back into the bed and tried to process everything. I won’t let this ruin the wedding or the holiday. Tomorrow is another day and the wedding is only a few days away.
Kenneth
After that debacle last night, I needed a nice rest. I brought that cheap escort back to the hotel room so I could get my moneys worth out of her. I kicked her out the second the deed was done. I can’t be having her lingering. I paid her enough to keep her mouth shut.
I think I got away with it. Aaron won’t remember a thing, Quinn wasn’t there and Mark was too drunk to notice anything odd. He probably doesn’t even remember me going over to the table. I’m going to keep my head down and stay out of every
one’s way so I can fly under the radar. I don’t want to raise anyone’s suspicion.
I’m not done yet though, it’s time for the grand finale. I spent all of last night planning and plotting. This plan is going to work and then Cassandra is mine. Why can’t she just see how good I am for her? On the day of the wedding day I am going to ruin everything!
I was interrupted by a loud knock on the door, I shout out “Who is it? I’m busy. Go away.” The follow up knock was even louder. I stormed over to the door, as I opened it I screamed “I said I’m busy!” Before I could process what was happening a fist connected with my jaw and I slammed into the ground. What the hell just happened? I tried to turn over to look at who was attacking me and I felt a swift kick to my side. That’s going to be a broken rib for sure. I screamed out “What do you want? I can pay. Just please stop!”
The beating stopped and I heard laughter… I know that laugh. Mark’s voice made my ears ring “You know why I’m here you pathetic little fuck!” Another kick to my side took the air straight out of my lungs. I curled up trying to defend myself from the onslaught “Please, have mercy! Why are you attacking me?”
Mark dragged me to my feet and sat me down on a chair. He sat on the edge of the bed “You know why I’m beating your ass you slimy little shit.” He stood up again and took a full swing at my face, connecting with my nose. Blood exploded everywhere and I cried out in pain. “You think you’re real clever, don’t you? Well it wasn’t hard to add all the pieces together you dumb fuck!”
Mark sat back down on the bed again “I did some digging, last night was a bit too dramatic for my tastes. You destroyed an incredible evening for two amazing people because of jealousy and pettiness. Grow the fuck up you man child.” I tried to fight my case “I have no idea what you’re talking abo—” Mark swung furiously and hit me under the jaw sending a tooth flying across the room. “Don’t talk.”
