Party of Two

by Tey Holden

  “I have to go now. I’m going into surgery. Can’t wait to see you tonight.”

  “Ditto, bye.” Oh God, where is this going? Shit, shit, shit!

  Blair was bursting with joy. She knew Alex spoke without thinking, and she loved it. She also thought that she might be getting her hopes high for nothing, but still she couldn’t let go.

  ***

  As agreed, Blair arrived at Alex’s flat at ten thirty on the dot. She was wearing brand new dark blue jeans, a white crew neck sweater and her black leather jacket and boots. She didn’t think she was wearing anything exceptional. She never liked to stand out and always dressed casually and comfortably. However, even in her simplicity, there was no way that she could hide her looks. Her black hair and black jacket accentuated the brightness of her blue eyes, and when Alex opened her door, she was surprised with the image in front of her, even more when the dimples showed. At that moment it did not matter to Alex that Blair was a lesbian, all she saw was a beautiful woman.

  Alex was wearing pants as well. She had also gone for the subdued look so as not to bring unwanted attention. She thought that black jeans and a black sweater would not attract much attention in a dark room. She wore a beige leather jacket over her sweater, and low-heel ankle length black boots. She was tall and didn’t need extra height. She was, as Addy would say, an improved version of Karen because not only was she as beautiful as Karen, but with more ‘bumper padding.’ This was Addy’s way of saying that Alex had a bigger butt and fuller breasts than Karen.

  There was no way to hide Alex’s appearance either. She looked great and became immediately aware of it the moment Blair unconsciously cruised her. Blair couldn’t help her reaction and felt embarrassed, like a deer caught in the headlights. Alex looked hot and there was no way to hide the sex appeal.

  “I need to change.”

  “Why? You look amazing.”

  “Precisely. We are going to a lesbian bar, and I don’t want to look amazing, I don’t want women looking at me the way you just did or hitting on me, and neither do you, and by the way, you happen to look pretty amazing yourself. Are you sure you are going to be safe in there? You are going there to check on your sister and to protect me from any would be interested parties, you know?” Oh God! Did I just tell her she looks amazing? I’m so not helping my case here!

  Blair remained in the living room smiling when Alex went into the bedroom. “You are not serious about changing, are you?”

  “Yes, I am.” Alex yelled form the bedroom.

  “You are going with me and no one’s going to get near you. Even if I have to smack a few people! And, anyway, aren’t you the karate expert?” Blair thought that, even if Alex wore work boots, her grandmother’s skirt, and a lumberjack’s shirt, she would still have every single woman in that bar looking at her.

  Alex came back from the bedroom wearing a different sweater. “Yes, but I would prefer it, if we didn’t have to smack anyone.”

  Blair looked at the new outfit trying not to focus on her breasts. Did she really think she looked worse now just because she changed her sweater? Then she said in a husky voice, “no one, absolutely no one, gets near you tonight.”

  Alex was certain that Blair was good on her word. “And what about you? I think you better stay near me and really make everyone think we are a couple because I don’t want to have to throw a punch there for you either.”

  The thought of Alex defending her made her chuckle. “Do not fear. It will be my pleasure to be your shadow and be at your feet all night my lady.” She bowed, making Alex smile. “And as for you throwing a punch for me, that is a sight that I would pay to see.”

  Alex twisted her mouth trying not to laugh. “Don’t underestimate my karate skills. I’m very good at it.”

  “I have no doubt about it, and I feel much safer already,” Blair replied smiling.

  “I don’t know what to make of all of this! You are hopeless, and I don’t think this is a great idea.”

  “What?”

  “Us, going to a lesbian bar together.”

  “Well, you know what they say, if you can’t beat them join them.” Having made the statement, Blair realized that it might be interpreted as having a dual meaning. She became somewhat worried when she noticed that Alex appeared to be pondering the statement.

  “Blair, I’m just going with the flow on this one, but I’ll have you know that if the waters get murky, I’m out of there for good.”

  “Fair enough.”

  “By the way, can we go in my car? I don’t know that I feel all that comfortable riding your bike at night. I’m not there yet.”

  “Sure. I don’t want you to feel unsafe or anything like that. I’m definitely trading the bike.”

  “Don’t be silly. Haven’t we gone through this conversation already? You will not trade the bike! So, drop it. As you can see, when I’m not comfortable with something I make it very clear.”

  “Yes, and I’m glad. It makes me feel much better.” Yes, ma’am! You do have a way to say things loud and clear, and I just love it! She smiled and walked side by side with Alex to the garage where Alex had her car. “Want to drive?” She knew how much Blair liked her car and handed her the car keys as she spoke.

  “Yes, I’d love to.” She followed Alex to the passenger side of the car. “I thought you wanted to drive?”

  “Yes, I just wanted to get the door for you.”

  “Oh!” Blair held the door open for her. “Thanks.” Shit! She’s just like Mom. Alex was caught up in her thoughts, as Blair went around and got in the driver’s side.

  “Sorry about that. I’m not used to being a passenger in my own car. Or used to so much chivalry!

  “Can I adjust the seat and mirrors? I think my legs are a bit longer than yours.”

  “Sure. There are buttons on the side to adjust the seat.”

  “I got it.”

  “I never thought anyone taller than me would be driving my car.”

  “I hope that’s a compliment, or I’m going to feel very self-conscious.”

  Alex laughed. “Compliment, much to my relief. I’ve always hated being the tallest one.”

  “Why? Being tall has its advantages.”

  Alex shook her head and rolled her eyes. “How tall are you?”

  “I don’t think I quite make six feet. I don’t go around measuring myself.” She started the car. “Wow, this car feels amazing. Smells great too.”

  “It’s the leather. I love the way leather smells,” Alex added.

  “It smells like you.” She said it without thinking and when she realized that she had spoken out loud, she looked at Alex. “I meant it as a compliment. You always smell great.”

  Alex looked away, and bit her lip. “Thanks, I think I like being a passenger in my own car.” She leaned back and sank into the bucket seat. Blair glanced at her and was delighted. And I’ve never driven for anyone as gorgeous as you!

  As they drove, Blair kept her thoughts to herself, but she couldn’t help look at Alex every moment she could. She thought that if there was ever a glorious moment in her life, this would probably be it. Driving the ultimate machine and being with the most beautiful, charming, smart and interesting woman she had ever met. She chuckled thinking that if Alex told her that she was from another planet, she’d probably believe her. Blair’s satisfied look did not go unnoticed by her equally observant and very pleased passenger.

  Alex was trying not to look, but she couldn’t keep her eyes from her. It was an attraction that she couldn’t deny and to make matters worse, she liked it. The woman driving was the picture of confidence. There was an air about her that exuded a je n’ais se quoi that enticed her. A few times, they caught each other looking and both smiled and looked away. Blair felt as if she didn’t fit in her own skin. Alex was immersed in her thoughts trying to make sense of her feelings.

  Chapter 4

  When they got to the bar, Blair parked under a light. “This is a bright spot. The car will be
safe here, and so will we when we come out.”

  “Are you always so concerned with safety?”

  “I have a tendency to assume responsibility for those with me. Tonight, I feel responsible for you. So, yes, safety matters.”

  Alex hardly knew how to respond. “Blair, before we go in. I was joking about you defending me. I can take care of myself, if worse comes to worst. I don’t want you getting in trouble on my account, please.”

  Blair cocked an eyebrow. “You are with me. I’ll make sure that’s clear to all, as agreed.” Alex rolled her eyes. “By the way, I told Megan that you were coming with me. I did it because she knows you from that first night here, and I didn’t want her to get the wrong idea.”

  “What wrong idea?” Alex suspected, but her legal training always took over to seek immediate clarification of any murky matter.

  “That we are coming as a couple,” Blair promptly replied.

  “I don’t know why she would get the wrong idea, she knows I’m not a lesbian, right?”

  “Yes, she does.” Right before they entered the bar, Blair took Alex’s hand. “Come on.” Alex looked at her surprised. The minute Blair took her hand she felt an electrical current go up her arm and she squirmed. Blair noticed Alex’s reaction. “I’m sorry. I was just trying to make it obvious that we are together as we enter, but if it makes you uncomfortable—.”

  The way she spoke made Alex smile. “No. It’s fine. It’s just that I’m not used to anyone holding my hand.”

  A million questions popped into Blair’s mind. Hadn’t anyone ever held her hand? She decided not to think about it and continued to walk towards the door very conscious of the warm hand she was holding.

  The moment they walked inside the bar all eyes were on them. Individually they both looked good, but together they made a very attractive couple. Megan spotted them immediately and greeted them with an amused smile. The holding of hands had not gone undetected.

  “Hey, what’s up?” Addressing Blair, she said, “long time no see you, sis. Camping at the hospital again?” Megan asked not exactly knowing where her sister might have moved her camp. Most significantly because she had noticed that Blair was still holding Alex’s hand.

  Blair was quick to set things straight. “Yes, ma’am. Round-the-clock shifts. Some doctors have taken some time off and that leaves the hospital short-handed, so I’ve been picking up extra shifts. How’s Pete?”

  “Adorable as always.” Megan and Blair’s smiles revealed their love for the little one, much to Alex’s delight.

  “Do you remember Alex?” Blair asked as a way to introduce them.

  “Of course, nice to see you again Alex,” Megan smiled as she wiped the counter in front of them, even though it was already clean. She wasn’t sure what was happening between the two women, but decided the less she said, the better. “What can I get you girls?”

  “Beer is fine,” Alex replied.

  “Same here, sis, and make sure she gets no more than one.”

  Alex looked at her in awe and then chuckled. She then looked at Megan. “Long story.”

  “I see.” Megan was tempted to ask, but again remained quiet since apparently things were going very well for her sister.

  “Seriously, Meg, only one for this one, or we are in trouble.”

  “Okay.” Megan responded as she got their beers.

  Blair’s protectiveness kicked in immediately when a tall, good-looking woman approached Alex. “Would you like to dance?” A slow dance had just started and all bets, among the regulars, were on who could take the blonde to the dance floor first and then home, if there was a God in heaven.

  Alex’s heart sank the second she heard the question. She looked at Blair with an ‘I told you so look.’

  Blair turned around and faced the woman. She put her foot on Alex’s barstool. “I think the lady’s dance card is full for the night.” She looked at the woman and held her gaze.

  The woman looked at Alex. Alex gave her a smug look. The truth was that she was stunned by Blair’s words, and by the way she put her foot on her stool to stop the other woman from getting closer.

  The woman smiled at Alex. “I’m sorry I didn’t know you were taken.” She gave Blair a nod, which Blair returned. Apparently, the nod was a sign of acknowledgement. Blair continued to look at the woman as she walked away.

  Megan got close to Alex and whispered. “I don’t know if you realize what just happened, but Blair just marked you as her girl. I don’t think anyone else is going to be asking you to dance without checking with her first.” Megan smiled waiting to see what Alex’s reaction was.

  Alex chuckled nodding and looking down at her beer. “Good. It’s okay, Megan. Blair and I had an agreement that she would look out for me, since we suspected this kind of thing could happen.”

  At that very moment, Pat the bar owner came towards them. “Blair, I’m so glad you are here! I’m having trouble with the computer again. Do you think you can take a look at it?”

  “Alex, this is my aunt, Pat. She owns the bar.”

  “Hi Pat, pleased to meet you.” Pat shook her hand, looked at Blair, and smiled.

  Blair took Alex’s hand. “Come with me. I don’t want to leave you alone out here.”

  “Sure. After all, I’m taken already, aren’t I?” Alex stressed the ‘taken’ part and chuckled as she got off her stool to follow Blair into Pat’s office.

  Pat mouthed a ‘what?’ to Megan before she followed the pair into her office. Megan whispered, “long story, I’ll tell you later.”

  While walking inside the office, Blair murmured, “I thought that’s what you wanted me to do”

  “Yeah, sure. I just didn’t think you’d do it so well. You scared me there for a moment. I was afraid the woman would smack you.”

  Blair smiled knowing that she had not played any part, and that she meant every word she said to that woman. Blair sat in front of the old computer while Alex explained the whole charade to Pat. Ten minutes later Blair was done.

  “Okay, Pat. The computer seems to be working now.”

  “Thanks, sweetie, I don’t know what I would do without you and your computer skills.”

  Blair looked at Alex. “I really didn’t do much—.”

  Alex smiled. She knew that Blair had merely rebooted the machine, but she was not about to expose the computer whiz. Blair smiled knowing that Alex knew exactly what she had just done.

  While Blair was closing windows in the computer, Alex leaned closer and commented, “computer whiz also, huh?”

  “Yes, I have many attributes,” Blair replied with a smug smile. It was then when Alex noticed the journals and files on Pat’s desk. “Looks like you have more files than a law office.”

  “Those are my record-keeping files. Pat pointed to the files on her desk. “Running this place is very complicated.”

  “Is this how you keep your books?” Alex held one of the bookkeeping journals in her hand.

  Both Pat and Blair looked at her. “Yeah, why? Do you know of any other way?”

  “Are you serious?” She looked at Pat then at Blair. “You are serious! Oh God! Who does your accounting?”

  “I have a bookkeeper. Hun, this is a low budget operation. We don’t make much around here. I’m afraid I can’t invest in any fancy accounting firm.”

  “Pat, I’ve been here twice. The bar has been packed to capacity both times, how could this be a low budget operation?”

  “I don’t know, but there’s just enough money to break even. If you can figure out where the money goes, you let me know! Do you know how to figure those things out? I can’t pay you much, but I’d give you half of whatever you find.” Pat laughed thinking that Alex would not take her seriously.

  “Do you have a flash drive?”

  “Yeah,” Blair replied.

  “Can I copy your data and take it with me?” Alex asked Pat.

  Pat looked at Blair, and Blair shrugged.

  “If Blair trusts you, so will
I. So, yes, copy whatever you want. Like I said, this operation is on the brink of going in the red. I don’t know how much longer I can stay open at this rate. It’s gotten worse with time, and I’m serious about not being able to pay you. I just can’t.”

  Alex smiled with eagerness. She couldn’t resist a good project. “Pat, I’ll look at the data and your books free of charge. I’ll tell you what I find, and we’ll take it from there. Just to let you know, I’m not in the book-keeping business, but I’m very good with finances.”

  “She’s a corporate lawyer.” Blair said.

  “A lawyer? Nice.” She raised her eyebrows and glanced at Blair.

  Blair sat next to Alex. “Are you sure you are okay doing this? You don’t have to.”

  “Blair, I love projects, and making things work. I’d love to do this, really.” Her eyes sparkled with an enthusiasm that made Blair grin.

  “Pat, I have a feeling that this place will never be the same now that she’s made the bar her project.”

  “Why do you say that?” Alex was curious.

  “Your face just lit up as if you had some sort of vision.”

  Alex looked at her and wondered whether she was turning into M’Addy with her visions. She copied the records and put the memory stick in the front pocket of her pants. “As soon as I have everything ready, I’ll call you and we’ll see if we can improve things.”

  Pat was thrilled with Alex’s enthusiasm. “Alex, I would like to pay you somehow.”

  “How about a couple of beers for me and the computer whiz here?”

  Blair’s dimples prominently showed when she grinned. She could see the teasing all night with the ‘whiz’ remark.

  “Beers, sure. I can do that! Have all you want.”

  “You’re coming out ahead on this one, Pat, she’s restricted to one only.”

  “Why? Oh! I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to invade your privacy if you are in some sort of program.”

  “Oh no!” Alex laughed and came close to Pat and whispered. “I have a very low alcohol tolerance, and Blair’s restricted me to one beer.” Having finished her statement, she walked out of the office nonchalantly.