The Naughty Spaceholder

Derek

The slow parting of my eyelids allowed my retina to adjust to the lights above the bed. I scrubbed my palm over my face, wiping away any drowsiness that remained. After which, I took a survey of the room. Only to realize I wasn’t at my house, wasn’t in my bed, and worst of all, the body draped around mine wasn’t Cathy’s. 

‘Fuck! Why are you such a fuck up, Derek,’ I internally cursed myself. 

With caution, I untangled myself from the witch I called a girlfriend and slipped from the bed. She turned, and stretched, already missing the heat from my body. I grabbed the nearest pillow and rested it beside her. She noticed the new comfort and curled herself towards it. I blew out a silent breath, thanking the heavens it didn’t wake her.  

I didn't get it. How could someone so beautiful be so manipulative? Be so crazy? Sure, no one’s perfect but wasn't pretty people supposed to be sane? I thought older folks were supposed to have their shit together. It was like a hidden rule or something. 

My parents flashed to mind. They were always organized and so sure of themselves. Heck, I had never seen them argue. They were somewhat perfect. I didn’t expect any less from Lisa. She was a successful lawyer for crying out loud. Lawyers were always badass and organized aka have their shit together. So, what was wrong with Lisa? 

My fingers searched my pockets, ensuring I had everything. I didn’t even bother to cover Lisa before I departed her den. 

Outside, I was tempted to push the car a distance down the road to ensure safety before starting it up. At the last minute, I resisted the urge and got in the vehicle. Turning the key in the ignition, the vehicle came to life. The time glowed, ripping a full paragraph of expletives from my lips as I sped out the driveway. 

Not too long after, I was parking in my apartment complex. One of the many perks of driving at two in the morning. No traffic. 

My heart took a scuba dive once the vehicle died. I took two deep breaths with a, “Don’t worry, Derek. She’s not going to be awake.”

Even as the words left my lips, I knew they weren’t true. I could just see Cathy there, awaiting my arrival. She always did it. 

Mustering as much courage, I got out of the vehicle, and strolled into the elevator. 

Up I went to face my judgment. Out of the frying pan, into the fire. And, I was definitely feeling the heat. So much I had to loosen the top buttons of my shirt. Even my shoes got too tight.

The closer I got to the apartment, the higher my heart rate went. 

A shaky laugh left my lips.

 'Why are you so nervous, Derek?'

 It was not like I had to tell Cathy Lisa was pregnant. Lisa, herself wasn't sure. Why should I concern Cathy with news that wasn't a hundred percent accurate? It would be like giving out fake information. I was sure Cathy was already upset with me for staying out late again. I didn't want to add salt to injury. 

'Right, Derek, chill.'

The elevator dinged and all my self-preparation went out the door. I was so fucked. 

No, I could do this!

I dragged my feet to my apartment door. I hesitated for a slight second before turning the key in the lock, wincing at the loud click that came along with it. Slowly pushing the door ajar, I peeked inside. Satisfied the coast was clear, I kicked off my boots and tiptoed inside, gently closing the door behind me. 

I traveled deeper into the apartment, the heels of my feet barely touching the tiles. Now, I wished I had taken ballet classes. Those Ballard looked so comfortable on their toes all day it seemed like a walk in the park. Sure enough, being a master of the art would have done me wonders, especially right now.