The Speed Of Pain

Experimenting

Chapter Ten

July 18th, 1998

Charlotte

As soon as I'm enveloped in Marilyn's arms, I feel a wave of contentment wash over me. I cling to him, wrapping my legs around his waist. "I missed you so damn much," I whisper.

"Believe me, you have no idea," he murmurs into my neck, his breath warm against my skin.

Eager to make up for lost time, I plead, "Take me upstairs."

"Can't," he replies, gently setting me down. "We're headed to Vegas."

"But I just got here," I protest. "Vegas?"

"Yeah, last-minute show," he explains. "It pays big bucks, and I thought we could have some fun, maybe get wasted and get married by fat Elvis or something. Plus, you owe me after bailing on me for another month and a half after A Bug's Life."

"It was The Bride of Chucky," I correct him. "I couldn't pass up one of my favorite franchises."

In the movie, I played Jade Kincaid, a character whose body Tiffany, Chucky's former lover, wanted to inhabit. It's more of a thriller than straight-up horror, but I've always wanted to try my hand at a horror film.

"I'm sure you'll be amazing in it," Marilyn reassures me with a dazzling smile. "I can't wait to see it. Hasn't it been, like, seven years since Child's Play 3?"

I nod. "It was incredible to meet Brad Dourif. He's really funny."

"Yeah, I met him once a few years back. Anyway, let's get going," Marilyn says, taking my hand and leading me towards the exit.

On the way to the airport, Marilyn hinted at a surprise waiting for me at the hotel. Knowing him, it could be anything, so I refrain from guessing. I'm just thrilled to be by his side again. Filming was enjoyable, and the paycheck was fantastic, but nothing compares to being with him.

Dominic, Marilyn's temporary assistant, hands him two room keys, and we head towards the service elevator. A private suite awaits us—no surprise there. My dad always travels in luxury, while Marilyn and I prefer a more low-key approach.

"Lotty!" I hear a familiar voice exclaim as the elevator doors open.

I embrace Kelly tightly. "I missed you," I say, scanning the area for the others. "Where's Aimee and Jack? And Mom and Dad?"

"They went to see a show Jack was interested in," she explains, rolling her eyes. "I opted to wait for you guys. We're meeting them for dinner before the show tonight."

Food sounds heavenly to me right now.

"I need to check on the guys," Marilyn interjects, glancing at his beeper. "Are you coming?"

I shake my head. "I'll catch up. I need a shower... and some warmer clothes for tonight, since you kidnapped me without letting me pack."

"Mom packed you a bag," Kelly informs me. "It's in your room."

Marilyn shoots me a smug grin. "See? I may have abducted you, but it was a very organized abduction."

"See you in an hour?" I ask, leaning up to meet his lips halfway.

He returns the kiss eagerly. "Sooner, hopefully. See you, Kelly."

"Hopefully sooner," she teases, sticking out her tongue playfully as we head our separate ways.

In our suite, I unpack the bag Sharon thoughtfully packed for me. A variety of outfits, all suitable for a Vegas adventure, are neatly folded inside.