A: Short Story Collection

Chapter 20

"Hallway"

"Dominic."

I wake up to the sound of Ime's voice.

"We're here," he said.

I look out to see a skyscraper building and an ignited city.

We land on top of the skyscraper and all three of us get out of the jet.

We're greeted by what I assume to be assistance. They take our luggage and welcome us into the building.

Immediately we're greeted by a group of people in what I assume to be a ballroom.

Everyone starts cheering and greeting welcoming Ime back.

I awkwardly follow behind him as he meets and greets everyone, walking through the crowd.

"You look nervous," Gloria said.

I glare at her.

Of course, I'm nervous. I'm not used to this many people.

Someone hands me a glass of wine. I sip from it, trying to remain calm.

Ime didn't tell me it was gonna be a welcoming party.

Why would he make me wear a dress to something like this?

I nervously walk around trying to find a place to isolate myself and Ime follows me.

I find a corner to chill in and Ime walks up to me.

"Sorry. This was unexpected," he said.

"It's fine."

"Wanna go somewhere else?"

"Of course."

Ime grabs my hand. "Follow me."

He pulls along through the crowd until we're stopped by a tall, muscular, black man with trimmed black hair and beard, wearing a tuxedo.

"Welcome home son," he said and embraced Ime.

He releases Ime and looks at me. "And who is this fellow in a dress?"

"Oh, I'm Dominic," I said and put out my hand.

He stares at me and I slowly put my hand away.

Awkward...

"Well, welcome Dominic. I'm pretty sure Ime has a reason for bringing you here."

"Yeah, he sure does."

"We got to get going," Ime said.

"Well, then," Ime's father said and moved out of the way.

We walk through the crowd and out the door that leads to the hallway.

We walk through the hallway and Ime leads me to an expense-decorated bedroom.

"This will be your bedroom while you stay here," Ime said.

I look around the room. "Wow, thanks."

"And if anyone knocks instead of me, just let them know you're with me."

I nod. "Okay."

"Well, I got to get going. I'll see you in the morning. Goodnight."

"Goodnight."

Ime leaves the room and closes the door behind him.

I immediately collapse into the king-size mattress and relax.

I feel like a fish out of water. Who would've expected he's some big shot from his decent apartment?

I should've known something was up once he kept throwing money at me.

I bet could've had me doing whatever he wanted if he wanted to.

I sigh and turn on my side.

What am I gonna do here I wonder.