Simulated Love (2024)

Chapter 8

Chase

When I got off my flight, I had received instructions from Ink to text a number about my whereabouts. I assumed it was Elijah's phone, but it was a guy named Dean. He apparently was the big boss from Elijah's company.

He asked me to describe what I was wearing and when I told him, he asked if I could go outside so that he could see me. I knew it was going to be chilly, so I brought a jacket, but it was a lot colder than I had expected. There was snow all over that glistened in the streetlights. The wind made my eyes water which didn't help with keeping my face warm. I was shaking so much that my body was getting sore.

An expensive black car pulled up in front of me and Dean came out of it. He was a very tall man with pale skin. He wore a nice trench coat with tailored pants and fancy boots.

"Chase?"

"Yes sir."

He greeted me with a firm handshake, his warm smile was inviting. "I'm Dean," he introduced himself, his voice exuding confidence. "Owner of GameSpotlight Magazine. It's truly a pleasure to meet you." His eyes glanced at my bags, and without hesitation, he offered, "Allow me," as he effortlessly lifted them and placed them in the trunk of his car.

"Thank you."

As I settled into the passenger seat, the fresh scent of leather and lemons greeted me. His seats were super comfortable and the heat coming from his vents warmed me up instantly. With a smooth start, we began our journey, the engine humming softly in the background.

"How was your flight?" he asked, his eyes focused on the road ahead.

I couldn't help but let out a tired chuckle. "Long," I said as our shared laughter lightened the mood. "But nice," I continued. "I had the pleasure of experiencing first-class for the first time. The seats were incredibly comfortable, and the legroom made the journey so much more enjoyable."

"First time flying first class?"

"Yes."

"Glad I could give you such an experience," he said with a smug smirk. He knew he had money and playing it humble wasn't a thought that crossed his mind.

"Yes. Thank you again."

"Anytime, Chase. You work with my company; I treat you like one of my own. That's what we do. We are like one big happy family."

I nodded and smiled.

"I hope you don't mind, but before I take you to your place, I wanted us to get some drinks with some of my colleagues."

I honestly wanted to get settled into my place and sleep, but how could I say no? "I don't mind."

There was that smug smirk again.

Soon, we got to the bar and the lights were so bright that it brightened up the night sky. As we stepped out of the car, a bunch of Dean's colleagues greeted us as the music from the inside played softly in the back. There laughter and conversation drowned the music out quickly as they went back to whatever they were discussing. They were all so well dressed and tall, just like Dean. 

"Is everyone here?" Dean asked as he towered over everyone, scanning the heads around. "Alright, then let's go blow off some steam."

The guys cheered before we went inside. The bar was small, but it was nice. It was definitely the fanciest bar I had ever been to. We all gathered around this long table in the middle, and there was a pool table nearby with dart boards on the walls.

I hoped that someone had gotten up to go play so I could too, but no one did. They just drank and talked about whatever guys like them talked about. I paid little attention until Dean directed his words toward me.