Take A Leap And Fly (Short Story)

Part 3

PICTURE OF LAURENCE ------>

I found myself being pushed and lifted away from Peirce's lap all at once in one swift motion as I tried to get away from him as much as I could before Laurence could make his way into the room. I ran my hand over my hair and almost sighed with relief with the realization that I had thankfully not worn any kind of makeup that would have betray me with smearing.

“Alina?” Laurence asked sharply just as he came into view from where I sat a good two feet from Peirce on the couch.

“Laurence.” I answered.

His eyes scrutinized us both almost accusingly before he sneered. “What are you doing here?” he asked harshly.

I blinked and kept a cool composure. “I already told you that we met on the street by coincidence and he offered me a drink while we went over the plans for the next shoot.” I gave him a reassuring smile as I said so.

He frowned deeper and glared at Peirce. “If you two are so focused on the photo shoots then why is her hair a mess and your pants bulging?” he demanded, his voice filled with anger.

I felt the small glimmer of hope that he wouldn't notice the details die out and vanish but Peirce only returned his fiery glare with an icy gaze. “For the same reasons that you're so focused with your work but yet have time for other women.” he shot back scathingly.

Laurence’s eyes narrowed dangerously but he said nothing more to him as he strode over and grabbed my arm forcefully, dragging me away in the direction of the door. Although he only made it a few steps before Peirce had him, his grasp stung and I knew there would be bruises later.

“Don't you dare touch her like that.” Peirce said, his voice threateningly calm.

“I'll touch her in whatever way I want considering she's my fiance'.” Laurence snapped and shoved Peirce's hand off of him.

I jerked away from Laurence's grasp. “Do you honestly think that I’ll still go with you after seeing you with that woman today?!” I shrieked in disbelief.

He rolled his eyes. “Oh Alina, please, I could easily get whatever woman I could ever want so if you left it would only be hurting yourself considering you're parents would probably disown you and not to mention I could absolutely ruin any sort of chance that you could make yourself useful within the city. Think of everything I could do that would make your life a living hell and wouldn’t do a single bit of harm to me.” he smiled a fake smile and I knew he was absolutely right. He smirked as I stayed silent, unable to give him an answer. “Well seeing as how things have been cleared up let's go.” he stated in an orderly fashion.

I shook my head. “No. I don't want to go.”

He sighed. “Alina darling I really don't have time for this so just cooperate with me and come on.” his voice was strained as if he were trying to keep his temper under control.

I took a step back closer to Peirce, “I won't.” I said stubbornly.