Hard Embrace

NIGHTLIFE

Iris watched from afar, Sterling and Tamryn dancing together. She would usually turn the other cheek, but she didn't like him giving Tamryn any type of attention.

She always knew other women with Sterling meant one night stands or a few romps in the sack. But Tamryn was different, Iris could tell he wanted more.

They swayed back and forth while their bodies and hips moved naturally as one.

"Looks like they're really enjoying themselves," Nicky said, joining the watch.

"Yeah, it's just dancing. No big deal."

"Wait, isn't that Larenz over there?"

Iris looked at Tamryn's boyfriend, getting quite cozy himself. She knew he had to be oblivious to what Sterling was doing with his girlfriend.

A smile grew on her face as she made her way towards Larenz and his conquest.

"Hey, Jakes..."

He looked towards Iris. "Hey, what's up?"

She leaned close to his ear, giving him the status on Tamryn's whereabouts.

"You're so busy chasing random tail that you don't see anyone chasing your girl's."

"What?"

"Tamryn is here."

"She is?" He instantly moved away from the woman while looking around.

"Your girl is right over there."

Larenz took a hard swallow at what he was seeing. His boss was dancing with his girl and she looked like she was really enjoying it.

Iris smirked. "You're about to get your bitch taken."

Sterling's arms were wrapped around Tamryn's body. They looked way too close and comfortable for his liking.

Larenz's jealousy was instant and he let it get the best of him. He walked toward Sterling and Tamryn. When he looked closer at what she had on, his anger grew.

She's wearing that tight ass dress, letting my mothafucking boss grind on her.

He patted Sterling on the shoulder. They both looked at him.

"Larenz..." Tamryn looked disappointed.

"Sorry to interrupt...I need to talk to my girl."

Sterling looked at Tamryn, and she nodded that it was okay. Larenz's heart raced at how protective his boss was of his girl. It was as if Sterling was her man.

Larenz grabbed her hand and led her in the opposite direction.

Sterling took a deep breath to calm down. He didn't want to overstep... yet.

On the other side of the club where the music was less heard, Larenz stood Tamryn next to the wall.

"What the hell do you think you're doing?"

"Having fun, what's the problem?"

"Are you serious right now?...That's my fucking boss you were dry humping."

Tamryn rolled her eyes. "Oh please...we were just dancing."

"I would've thought you two were fucking if you weren't clothed."

"You're exaggerating."

"Yeah, whatever."

She crossed her arms. "So, it's okay for you to dry hump other women but I can't have fun?"

Larenz grabbed her by the shoulders and pressed her up against the wall.

"Tamryn, stop fucking embarrassing me. If I get into it with my boss, I'm going to lose my dream job and I will never forgive you, if that happens!"

Her heart raced at his actions and soon her eyes began to water. She pushed him away.

"That's it! I'm done, Larenz!"

"What?! No!"

Tamryn went to walk away, and he quickly grabbed her.

"Get off of me!"

"Tam, calm down...I'm sorry, okay?"

Larenz's words meant nothing as she got out of his hold once more and ran for the exit. People crowded the floor, making it hard for him to keep up. But Tamryn easily maneuvered through the crowd.

Once outside, she texted her friends that she was leaving and catching a cab. As soon as she pressed send, a ride pulled up to the curb, and she got in....Tamryn was absolutely done for the night.

***

It's been a few days, and I've been avoiding Larenz. I stayed at Dee's place to clear my head. I still was processing the night at Ecstasy and what led to our argument.

We need to talk, Tam.

Come on, babe....answer the phone.

I read the ten text messages that he sent along with the twenty-something missed calls.

"Girl, when are you gonna stop torturing that man?" Dee giggled.

"He was being a jerk..."

"Yeah, but you know he loves you. He was jealous of you dirty dancing with his boss."

"It wasn't dirty dancing, and he was doing the same thing."

"Yeah, but you didn't know or work for the girl."

She had a point, and I looked away.

"Listen, if you're not happy with the relationship...tell him to kick rocks...if not, go talk it out with your man, friend."

"If you want me to leave, just say that."

"Girl, stop it!"

We both laughed, and she gave me a hug. After I stared at my phone, I texted him back.

I'll meet you at home. Tonight at 6:00 pm

He messaged back quickly. Ok, babe. Thank you

I took a shower and backed my bag to head back home. As I put the last item in the bag, my phone buzzed.

Hi Tamryn, this is Sterling. I was checking to see if you were okay

My hands shook as I read the text message, and then I replied.

Hi, I'm fine. How did you get my number?

Your friend Tischa.

I smiled, shaking my head.

If I overstepped, I apologize. I was just worried about you.

You always look out for me. Thank you, Sterling.

No problem, I'll always look out for the ones I care about.

I placed my hand on my chest. His text made me smile.

You can save my number, if you want.

Okay, I will.

Good.

Have a good night, Sterling.

I will if I can see you.

I read the message and put my phone down. The excitement of Sterling wanting to see me was taking over my urges.

"2:22pm." I read the clock.

546 Tailor Ave, Apt 69. The place is next to the bookstore. I'll be there until midnight.

"69?"

I tapped my foot thinking as I looked at my clock again, then I replied.

Okay, see you soon.