Black Roses

REUNION

Dmitri stopped for a moment not realizing what just happened but noticed Sarai was no longer participating.

"What's wrong?"

"I am Sarai..."

"Yes, I know who you are, my love." He continued to kiss her neck thrusting inside her.

"D-Dmitri stop. You keep calling me her name."

She tried to push him off but he didn't budge. He seemed to lose himself then finally stopped once he noticed her tears.

"Sarai, I-I'm so sorry."

He quickly got off of her then wiped her tears.

"Did I hurt you?"

"You keep calling me Hadiza...this is the fourth time you've done this, Dmitri."

"What? I didn't know. Why didn't you say anything?"

"Cause you'd only do it during sex."

Sarai got out of bed, looking for her clothes. She began to get dressed while Dmitri sat confused.

"I truly admire the love you have for your wife but I am not her. You dishonor Hadiza's memory by constantly calling me her."

"I'm sorry, Sarai. Please don't leave."

He jumped out of bed trying to stop her from walking out of the room. But she already accepted nothing more would become of them.

"I had a slip up and I really do apologize."

"The main reason you are so into me is because you're trying to have Hadiza back."

"No, Sarai, that's not true. I'll admit I do miss her but I know you are your own person."

"Not while making love to me. In our most raw passionate encounters, you think of her. To you...I am her."

Sarai reached up softly touching his face while she gave him a soft smile.

"It's okay, Dmitri. I know you're a good man."

"Please understand Sarai, I swear I wasn't trying to hurt you. I would never purposely disrespect you."

"I know, that's why I still want to be your friend. If you still want to take me to the ball, call me."

Dmitri decided to stop pleading his case. He gave her a tight hug, hoping this wasn't the last time in her presence or being able to hold her.

"I will. Drive safe."

Sarai drove down the highway relieved but also sad. She had no relationship with her family and could never trust Alex to give him another chance. Dmitri will forever long for his late wife and she pushed Shane away probably never to see him again.

"I really am meant to be alone."

***

It was the evening of the Dark Ball with only a selected bunch of the rich and elite invited. Supernatural beings were also in attendance but in human form.

Werewolves, celestial beings, witches, vampires and many other beings of the supernatural dark world walked into the members only venue.

Dmitri was not passing up the opportunity to spend time with Sarai and brought her as his plus one. She wore a black sparkly bodice ball gown with her hair pulled up into a sleek french roll.

"Did I tell you that you are stunning?"

She blushed. "Yes, you have and thank you again."

He kissed her hand as they walked into the tall gold double doors.

Dmitri was well known so the stares didn't bother him, but then he realized they were because of Sarai. Many knew about the story of his wife, Hadiza the high priestess, but few ever met her. Everyone was curious about the beautiful woman now on Mr. Devereaux's arm.

"Are they looking at me?" She asked.

"Of course...you're breathtaking."

He held her hand then squeezed, reassuring her safety. Sarai was in awe of the luxury royal decor. The golds, reds, marble floors with French inspired chairs and paintings gave an atmosphere that her hopeless romantic heart enjoyed.

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to our 100th Annual Dark Ball. Please enjoy."

Everyone clapped then continued to mingle amongst each other.

Sarai and Dmitri walked the halls while he gave her the history on anything she asked.

"Mr. Devereaux, I was sent by Lady Camilla."

Dmitri gave a nod. "Sarai, I will be right back."

She gave a nod back then continued looking at the artwork and paintings on the wall. Shane popped up in her mind.

His paintings were beautiful like these.

The thought of him put a smile on her face while she moved further down the hall. A tingling sensation ran up her spine and the all too familiar voice spoke a distance from her.

"Hello, Ms. Shaw."

"Shane? H-Hi."

He's so gorgeous.

This was the first time she's ever seen him in a suit. He stared into her eyes while keeping a distance...she noticed the space between them.

"How have you been?" She asked.

"I've been well, how about you?"

"Same."

Shane gave a grin still keeping his distance.

"I see you came with Dmitri. I'm happy for you two."

"Shane, we are..."

Before she could finish he interrupted.

"It's okay Sarai. I've accepted that I fucked up. I've done things that upset you and I apologize for everything."

Dmitri and a beautiful woman walked towards them. Shane's eyes were still on Sarai.

"Darling, I was looking for you." The woman grabbed Shane's hand.

"Well, you found me."

The woman kissed him on the cheek and Sarai looked away. Then Dmitri put his arm around her waist.

"Good seeing you, Mr. Ross."

"Same."

"Sarai, this is Lady Camille."

"Nice to meet you." Sarai shook her hand.

"Likewise. Dmitri, their resemblance is amazing."

Sarai felt her stomach churn, she felt put on display while the woman talked as if she wasn't present.

"I need to use the ladies room...excuse me."

She had no idea where the restroom was located but she did know where the exit was and she walked out. Once outside she inhaled the fresh air as she sat on the nearest bench.

After a few minutes all the guests were inside. Soon she felt her eyes tear up, then the loud sound of a motorcycle pulled up.

"Hey, you wanna get out of here?"