“Hello, Scarlet. My name is Dr. Thomas. Besides the sharp burning pain in your arm and thigh, can you identify any other symptoms?” Dr. Thomas questions as he checks my wounds. I take a movement to evaluate my injuries.
“No. But could I have the catheter removed? I need to use the restroom,” I disclose as I shift my weight. I can see the doctor better, but the pain medication is wearing off. I grimace and the doctor notices.
“I’ll send a nurse. Remember to take it easy once the catheter is removed. You were fortunate the shooter had no experience. Your deltoid and iliotibial tract were shot. If you follow the recovery plan, I believe you’ll recover quickly,” Dr. Thomas instructs then mentions pain medications as well as a therapist visiting soon to check on the mobility of my right arm. He’s concerned that the structures facilitating movement might be compromised. He advises not to rush the healing process so that I can mend properly. He also mentions that once I’m ready, a police officer requested to speak to me. With haste, the doctor exits my room.
There’s a knock on the door. An officer enters the room to introduce himself. Officer Mendoza inquires of my wounds, then proceeds to question my relationship to Kate; he pauses only to take notes. Later, he thanks me for my time, then as he leaves, he wishes me a fast recovery over his shoulder.
“We were all so concerned about you, my dearest Scarlet,” Elizabeth begins to weep, and Violet joins her.
“Let’s stay strong for Scarlet. She’ll recover and will be right back to how she was before all of this,” Benjamin offers as he rubs Elizabeth’s back to calm her.
To soothe my family’s nerves I say, “I’ll be okay. I’m sure I’ll recover quickly. I’ll be back to work in no time.” I manage a weak smile, but my wounds and sutures cause me to grimace. How could such small bullets cause so much pain?
I’m discouraged by the prognosis provided by my physical therapist, Lana Opal. She informs me that I have damaged nerves leading from my arm to my hand. No wonder I barely felt David squeeze my hand. I question if I’ll be able to draw the same.
“We’ll have to see how well you take to your therapy.” Lana smiles and nods in encouragement as she pats my shoulder.
After several days confined to my Regional Emergency Center bed, on Sunday, October 7th, I was informed I’d be released the next day to complete my recovery at home. My nurse urged me to attend my recommended physical therapy appointments. I’m able to walk without assistance, but it’s painful.
My shooting became a focus for the media. As a result, David delayed the opening of his facility. His investor list was impacted due to my shooting. Nonetheless, the center opened Thursday, October 4th. Most of the staff ignored the incident on the third floor. Frankly, they were too content to be working.
Throughout my relationship with David, my therapist, Dr. Sanders, noticed my change of outlook and decreased our visits from once a week to every other week. In September, she decided monthly visits would be sufficient. But, today, when I called to reschedule my appointment Lilla informed me that she had intended to contact me to cancel any further appointments.
“Dr. Sanders was very fond of her grandfather and has taken a sabbatical to be with her family in Ohio. Nonetheless, she’s accepting video chat appointments on Thursdays and Fridays. If you believe you need to speak to her, give me a weeks’ notice. Since leaving for Ohio, she’s now booked weeks in advance,” Lilla announces before pausing.
I thank Lilla and let her know that for now I’m fine without Dr. Sander’s assistance. Lilla mentions reading about my shooting in The Naples Daily and wishes me a speedy recovery. Then she suggests I acquire a permit to carry a handgun, to purchase a handgun, and to prepare for Kate’s next strike. I agree with Lilla before we say our farewells and end our call. I roll over in my bed and slip into a deep sleep.
“Even in this condition, you’re breathtakingly beautiful,” David whispers. His statement allows me to escape my nightmare of Kate choking me.
“And what condition is that?” I question as I perk up to see his guilty face.
“When did you last bathe?” he probes, his face a grimace of playful disgust.
“A muscular male nurse gave me a sponge bath last night. He concentrated on all the right places,” I reply with a cocky grin.
“Oh, did he?” he retorts with a snap.
He slips off his shoes and gently nestles himself next to me. We’re silent for a moment before he becomes stiff next to me.
“Relax. My wounds will heal. And we’ll be back to our frisky escapades in no time.” My candor doesn’t alleviate the tension. I shift and see his furrowed face. He clears his throat, wrinkling his brow as he shifts from one side to the other.
“Maybe we should cool off…until your wounds heal…” he suggests as he stares over my shoulder. “Kate evaded arrest. I fear what she might do next. I’m a danger to you,” he declares then rests his head on my shoulder. I process for a moment. What? Cool off for a moment?
“What do you mean ‘cool off’, David? Are you breaking up with me? Are you fucking kidding me? I was shot by your psycho ex-fiancée and now…” I bellow as I push him off of me. David moves closer then strokes my arm to calm me.
“No. No. That’s not what I meant, Scarlet. I just think we should…maybe take a break from being physical until you can withstand our normal sexual activities. We should cool off until the police catch Kate, especially reduce our public outings. I care for you, Scarlet. I cannot bear to lose you, especially not to Kate’s rage.” He kisses my neck then continues, “When Dr. Thomas mentioned your critical status due to a lacerated artery, I kept fearing that you’d pass away not knowing how much I care about you. How much I love you.”
We’re eye-to-eye, and I’m silent. I’m unsure how to respond to David’s confession. Before this moment, we hadn’t mentioned love. We were a couple who enjoyed intimate, hormone-driven experiences. Sometimes we caught a movie, ate at a nice restaurant, or even hit Naples’ night scene. But love? We never mentioned love…and I was fine with it. I enjoyed the pleasure David gave me too much to drive him away because of my feelings.
“I love you, Scarlet. Do you feel the same?” David questions as his eyes search my face for an answer.
“Of course I love you, David…” Before I can finish, our lips meet. My desire for David is suppressed by the noticeable pain throbbing in my arm and thigh. After some quick negotiating and coaxing on my end, we find a position that works, and David makes slow, sweet love to me.
At the conclusion of my last physical therapy appointment, David surprises me with an adorable stuffed Beanie Baby, a dozen, lovely, red roses, and a box of Godiva chocolates. Lana is speechless by how ridiculously attractive David is in his Versace suit. In comparison, I’m underdressed in a casual, blue-striped, cashmere, Michael Kors top with Minnie Roe, oyster, layering pants. My Michael Kors, hemp flats help me ease through my physical therapy. Violet had a laugh when I tried to leave in heels. I didn’t make it to the front door before she encouraged me to replace my nude Manolo’s.
David places my gifts next to my coral, Salvatore Ferragamo tote. He gives his phone a glance, then gestures for us to carry on.
Lana remembers she has a voice then says, “Scarlet, you indicate no need to continue. Your recovery will be swift if you avoid sudden movements, at least until your sutures dissolve. If you have any concerns, contact me.” I thank Lana for her time. David and I say our farewells, collecting my gifts as we leave. Violet drove me to my appointment, but now I remember her awkward questioning concerning my physical therapy floor and room location.
As soon as we’re alone in the elevator David pulls me close then briefly kisses my ear lobe. “Happy Anniversary,” he whispers into my ear. I’m surprised that he has kept track, but then I consider all the extra fun we’ve had on past anniversaries.
I give David a quick kiss on the lips before the elevator doors open to our floor. I wish him a happy anniversary as we walk to the Fisker Karma. He op
ens my door for me before helping me in. As we leave the hospital, David asks if I’m hungry. I tell him that I am, so we make our way to Vergina on 5th Ave to enjoy two delectable pasta dishes: spaghetti for David and butternut squash ravioli for me. As we eat, we smile periodically and avoid mentioning Kate. After we finish our dinner and bottle of Verite Le Desir, we chat while David pays the check. It’s as if Kate never existed. After dinner, we exit Vergina, holding hands as we stroll through 5th Ave.
“Would you like to do some shopping?” David inquires with a sly smile. Seriously? What girl would say no to shopping?
“Of course, but not too much because my thigh is starting to bother me,” I respond as a meek smile forms on my lips. David spots a quaint fine jewelry store then guides me in. An adorable older woman recognizes David then greets us as we’re walking in. Her sweet voice reminds me of Grandma Lucy.
“Why hello, Dr. Jensen, how are you on this beautiful fall evening?” The older lady inquires with a warm smile.
“I’m fine, Mrs. Lest. Enjoying my time with my girlfriend, Scarlet,” he announces as he pulls me in close. I give Mrs. Lest a smile and greet her before I excuse myself to walk around the shop. I take my time in the unique, custom jewelry store while David motions to sidebar with Mrs. Lest. They converse in a hushed tone as I continue to admire the shop. Mrs. Lest slips into a back room then returns.
“Scarlet,” David calls me back to him so I join him and Mrs. Lest. My attention is drawn to Mrs. Lest’s hands. I’m astonished by a platinum, garnet and diamond encrusted, S charm on a platinum, eighteen-inch, snake chain. As if the Beanie Baby, roses, chocolates, and dinner weren’t already enough—surprise jewelry!
I thank him and Mrs. Lest then give David an appropriate kiss and hug. I’ve learned I’m a publicly modest person when it concerns affection, but private places—not so much.
“I know it doesn’t match what you’re wearing, but could I put it on you?” He gives me a timid smile as he gazes at me. David, timid? Definitely a contradiction to his usual sexual self. After latching my necklace, he pays for my gift. We thank Mrs. Lest before exiting the store.
I let him know, “If you plan to do anything naked with me we better leave now. My thigh is starting to hurt.” David lets out a laugh, picks me up with ease, then cautiously carries me to his car. We drive to David’s house and once inside, he sets his phone on a mix play of stations on Pandora.
He guides me to his room while Bruno Mars’ smooth voice fills the air. David undresses me, and I become tense with desire. I lie and wait in my white bra and panty set from Agent Provocateur. He undresses himself down to his Calvin Klein boxers then moves his way up my body until our lips meet.
As we begin to melt into each other, Santana’s soulful guitar fills the rooms before Citizen Cope chimes in about his feelings not going away. Our lips break free as David gazes deep into my eyes and begins to sing along to the chorus of “Sideways” while Santana’s guitar playing echoes in the background. I’m entranced by David’s serenade, and my desire for him increases. We continue our exploration of each other’s bodies and become one until “Amber” by 311 plays in the background. We lie motionless, subdued by our sexual encounter.
“If I could, I would lay like this with you until I’m old and gray.” He massages my head until I fall asleep.
I awaken to an empty bed, so I wrap a sheet around my body. I scurry into the living room to see David pacing the living room floor. He’s deep in thought. As I walk toward him, I hear him say, “I understand your concerns, Violet, but I cannot see myself without Scarlet. We’re not a summer fling. I love her and want a long future… Yes, I understand that until the police capture Kate, she’s still a threat.” David notices I’m in the room and waves me over. He brings me in close and presses his muscular frame against me. He kisses my forehead then smells my hair.
“I’ll consider your suggestion, and I’ll have Scarlet home soon. Good night,” he snaps before setting his phone on his kitchen table and pressing his forehead against mine. Sadness draws his eyes and lips away from me.
“What is it?” I inquire, only to get him to speak. I have an inclination what Violet was telling David, but I want clarification of what David desires from our relationship.
“While you were sleeping, Benjamin called to say that someone tried to set fire to Belka Designs and Realty. Vera and Lance were in the office and frightened the arsonist before any serious damage occurred. The fire department did a thorough check and Benjamin asked about the security staff I use,” he says as he runs his fingers through his dark hair then sweeps his fingernails through his eyebrows.
“That’s good that no serious damage was done, but why were you talking to Violet?” I squint in a glare as I wait for his response.
“She thinks we should consider taking a break. She fears what Kate might do next. I don’t want to lose you, Scarlet. I’ve grown to care for you… to love you. I want us to last,” he divulges as his gaze surrenders to mine.
I hug him and respond, “I feel the same, but Kate has lost it. Maybe I should use my recovery time to visit Tim?” I search his eyes for an answer.
“Tim? Your ex-boyfriend from college?” His lips and eyes tighten as he stares down at me.
“Tim, my gay ex-boyfriend, but close friend from college,” I snap as I glare up at him.
David sighs deeply then says, “Leaving could give Kate the impression that we’re not together.” He stares off into the distance.
“But what if she targets you? Or worse, what if she follows me?” I place my hands on his cheeks and pull him closer to me.
“We’ll just have to see what happens. I have to hire someone to watch the house.” David guides us to his sofa to sit and he faces his Samsung, flat-screen television. I have my legs on top of his thighs as I recline against the armrest.
“How long will you be gone?” David inquires as he stares at the blank TV screen. He shuts his eyes then leans his head against mine.
“Maybe for a week or two. Dr. Thomas suggested I return to work in November. If I leave tomorrow, I can use the spa days Tim gave me,” I offer then shift to a new position.
He slowly faces me. “I know this has to happen, but I don’t want it to.” David moves me closer to him.
“David, the police will catch Kate and things will be how they were before she decided to release her rage on to me,” I offer as I kiss David’s forehead. He shifts his gaze to my face.
“Can we video chat while you’re gone?” he inquires with sadness in his eyes. It induces a pang in my heart; he doesn’t want me to leave.
I sit up, straddle him, and whisper, “Yes.”
Usually, David initiates sex, but knowing I may not see him for a week or more has awakened an animalistic desire. I remove the sheet and begin my seduction. I ravage his lips as I run my fingers through his dark hair. His hands are first on my hips, then one cups my breast as he circularly rubs my nipple with his index finger. His boxers can no longer contain his erection. With one hand, I unleash his growth and guide him in.
David moans as he thrusts deeply into me. We kiss and jolt into each other until we each let out lustful moans. He begins a rhythmic thrust that I’m unable to match. I try to press into him so he’ll slow down. Without a word, he lifts me into his arms, then stands as he places me on my back and continues to please me.
He raises my uninjured leg onto his shoulder then proceeds with intensity. I moan to the salacious pressure I know will only lead to an orgasm. My sexual noises intensify David’s rhythm—he pins me and spreads my thighs open. David’s hands grip my hips as his tongue teases my nipples.
I implode beneath him, convulsing from pleasure. David continues to increase his rhythm, and I feel another orgasm build. My body is on fire, and I feel like a raw nerve; everywhere David touches causes pure pleasure. I feel him become stiffer inside of me, and then he begins to call my name as he finds his release.
David adjusts himself next to me. We’re silent
until David says, “Do you have to leave me?” His face is in my hair. My heart aches because I don’t want to leave.
Unsure what to say, I answer, “We have time. I’ll be back before you know it.” I shift to kiss his cheek, but his lips urgently connect with mine.
Later, we’re dressed and headed out the door. It’s dark now, and we’re silent. David opens my door for me, then shuffles to quickly settle into his car. We set off towards Quail West. David barely acknowledges me, so I’m distracted by my thoughts.
Although I will no doubt enjoy my time with Tim, I’ll miss my nights and overall time with David. Once we’re parked in my driveway, David turns to face me, his eyes yearning for my attention.
“Don’t go. I’ll hire someone to watch over you. You can move in with me. I’ll keep you safe,” he rambles as he searches my eyes for a response. For a moment, I think it over and know this is not the best idea. Yes, we have sex, but live together? Am I ready for that?
“David… we’re not breaking up. I’m just going to visit Tim. Just think of it as I’m visiting a friend, and I’ll be back soon. All right?” I ask then wait for his response. He stares at his hands, until I take the hand closest to me and pull him into a hug. “I love you, David. We…we’ll be okay. It’s barely a month, and I’ll be back before you know it.” His lips travel from my hair to my cheek; then linger on my lips.
We’re forehead to forehead. I shift, kiss his cheek, then rush out of his car. He jumps out to guide me to the front door, his eyes heavy with sadness, making my eyes mist with tears.
“I’m sorry for ever endangering you. Kate should’ve come with a warning label.” Our lips meet one last time before he leaves. After I lock the front door, I fall back against it and slide down to hug my legs. I hear David drive away. Tears stream down my face as an ache pounds in my chest.
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