BRADFORD'S POV
The image of them together in the restroom earlier flashed through my mind, and a searing heat coursed through my veins.
My heart racing with a mix of anger and frustration, I clenched my fists, my jaw tightening.
Drake's chiseled features and charming smile seemed to captivate Joan, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy.
We'd both always been the center of attention, but Drake's effortless charm and good looks made me feel like I was in his shadow.
Martins and Anita wanted to spend time together, but I knew they'd been waiting for Joan.
I'd been waiting too, scouring the hall for what felt like an eternity. I glanced at my wrist watch, realizing the party was winding down.
"Anita, tag along with Martins and enjoy yourselves," I said with a smirk.
"You know I can't just leave my friend," Anita replied, sadness etched on her face. "She hasn't returned, and I'm worried."
"Just go with your boyfriend," I reassured her. "I'll find Joan and take her home. I give you my word."
I patted Anita's shoulder, and she nodded before leaving with Martins. A mischievous smile spread across my face.
I made my way through the crowd, searching for Joan. Suddenly, the restroom door swung open, and there she was, standing alongside Drake.
As I watched them together, the restroom seemed to shrink, the air thickening with unspoken tension. What is she doing with him? I was lost in thought.
I intervened, forbidding her from taking the card Drake offered. "Let's get back to our seats," I said, my tone firm but controlled.
As we walked down the hall, I sensed her unease. The tension between us was palpable, our minds racing with unspoken thoughts.
I needed to discuss something with her, and I hoped she'd grant me what I desired. But as I glanced at her, I wondered if I was prepared for her response.
"Can we spend some time together?" I asked, trying to sound casual. "We could lodge in a nearby hotel, you know."
A blush spread across her cheeks, and I sensed she liked the idea. But what was she thinking, considering a hotel with a stranger she'd just met?
Her question cut through my thoughts. "Is that what you wanted to discuss with me?" she asked, curiosity sparkling in her eyes.
I hesitated, trying to play it cool. "Not really. I just needed to find a quiet spot for us to talk." But since the party was winding down, I added, "We could stay in a private place instead."
She looked around the hall, her eyes searching. "Where are Anita and Martins?"
"They left already," I replied hastily.
Her gaze narrowed. "You mean she left without waiting or even informing me?" Her tone was laced with skepticism.
I offered a courteous smile. "She did wait for you, but since you were...not forthcoming, I assured her I'd find you."
I added, "Besides, they were trying to head somewhere."
Joan's expression remained unconvinced, and she let out a soft sigh.
"Can we go now?" I asked.
She rolled her eyes. "Yes, take the lead then," she said, her voice tinged with a playful pout.
Her lips caught my attention, and I felt a sudden urge to taste them.
Despite her pale skin, a telltale sign of malnourishment, she looked breathtakingly beautiful.
Our eyes locked for a moment, the tension between us palpable. But before it could escalate, my mother interrupted us.
"Son, I've been looking all over for you," she said, her gaze fixed on Joan. "And who is this?"
"She's a friend," I replied, beaming with a smile.
Joan greeted my mother with a polite "Good day, ma'am."
My mother nodded, then turned to me. "Okay, son, enjoy yourself. I'll head home now."
"Alright, Mum," I responded, watching as she walked away.
"Your mom is beautiful," Joan said.
"Thank you, pretty," I replied, taking her hand in mine. My fingers intertwined with hers, feeling the warmth of her skin.
"Let's go then."
"Okay," she said, smiling. Her eyes sparkled, and I couldn't help but steal a glance.
As we strolled to the hotel, the soft glow of the lobby lights beckoned us.
Immediately we stepped into the hotel, the crystal chandeliers enveloped us, casting a warm ambiance over the plush carpets and polished marble floors.
The air was thick with the scent of fresh flowers, arranged artfully in sleek vases. The reception desk, crafted from rich dark wood, curved elegantly
The attendant's familiar smile greeted me. "Good evening, sir."
I nodded curtly. "Hello."
Joan's gaze flicked between me and the attendant. "Have you been here before?" she asked, her brow furrowing slightly.
I shook my head, my smile neutral. "No, this is my first time." I lied.
I guided her toward the elevator, my hand still clasped around hers. The doors slid open, and we stepped inside.
Joan's eyes widened as she took in the room's opulence. "Wow, this place looks heavenly."
I chuckled softly, my eyes locked on hers. "Yes, it is."
As I stepped closer, my hands found their way to her waist. I whispered into her ear, "I need you to do me a favor."
Her body tensed, her voice barely above a whisper. "What favor?"
I turned her around, our eyes locking in a charged gaze. My voice dropped to a husky whisper. "Make love to me, and I'll give you five thousand dollars."
I held up the cash, the crisp notes rustling softly.
Joan's eyes flashed with surprise, her expression a mix of shock and temptation.
"So, this is what the discussion was all about?" Joan asked, her voice laced with unease.
I hesitated, searching her eyes. "Guess you need the money, huh?"
Joan's eyes widened, her lips parting in shock. "I...I…" she stuttered, unable to finish.
My hand instinctively cupped her breast, and she let out a soft moan. "Wait…" she whispered.
"Why me?" she asked, her voice trembling. "Why do you want to do this?"
I gently held her cheeks, my eyes locking onto hers. "You're beautiful, Joan," I whispered. "And I need you for the night."
"I need some time to think about it," Joan said, gently removing my hands from her breast.
"Okay then," I replied, my voice a little rougher than intended. "I'm going to freshen up. I'll be expecting your answer when I'm done."
Joan nodded, her eyes cast downward as she sat on the bed, lost in thought.
I stepped into the bathroom, the sound of running water enveloping me as I began to undress.
As I slipped into the bathtub, the warm water enveloped me, but my mind remained fixated on Joan, wondering what her decision would be.
Stepping out of the bathtub, I wrapped the crisp white towel around my waist, the fabric clinging to my skin. My body hummed with anticipation as I eagerly awaited her response.
As I entered the room, Joan's eyes widened, and she gasped softly. Her gaze roamed over my torso, her cheeks flushing.
I approached her, a smile spreading across my face. "Can I get your answer now?" I asked, my impatience barely contained.