A Love Uncondemned

Chapter 1 - The Art of Seduction

Jonathan entered the bustling bar, the loud music and lively atmosphere a stark contrast to his weary demeanor. He took a seat at the counter, catching the bartenderʼs attention.

"Welcome! What can I get you?" the bartender asked.

"Scotch, please" Jonathan replied.

"Any reason youʼre going soft?" the bartender asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

"You have a dirty mind, you know that?" Jonathan retorted with a smirk.

"Hey, I was just initiating small talk! You donʼt have to be so miserable when I'm here," the bartender said with a chuckle.

"Iʼm good. I need what men deserve after a long week of labor," Jonathan said, his tone laced with sarcasm.

"And I have a dirty mind? Well, you've come to the right place. The fish are abundant in this ocean. Prepare your rod and start fishing," the bartender said, grinning.

"It looks like your thirst will soon be quenched. Three o'clock!" The bartender exclaimed, nodding towards the time on his watch.

Jonathan's gaze shifted to his left, spotting Gloria seated alone. "Why, thank you!" He paid and walked over to her.

"Excuse me, why is your drink glowing?" Jonathan asked, his tone playful.

"It isn't glowing!" Gloria replied, raising an eyebrow.

"Oh, my bad! It must be your reflection in it," Jonathan said, his eyes locked on hers.

"It's impossible," Gloria said, a hint of amusement in her voice.

"I'm shocked to know that word exists in your vocabulary. Anyway, I am Jonathan Jonas," he said, extending his hand.

"Gloria McLaren," she replied, her handshake firm.

"A beautiful name for a beautiful lady. Can I smash you?" Jonathan asked, his tone ambiguous.

"That's ambiguous," Gloria said, her eyes narrowing slightly.

"I mean, can I buy you a strong drink? I don't mean to be rude or anything," Jonathan clarified.

"What makes you think I need a strong drink?" Gloria asked, her tone skeptical.

"It will warm you up because we have the whole night to ourselves back at the motel," Jonathan said, his eyes gleaming with intention.

"I don't see that happening. I'm not impressed," Gloria said, her voice firm.

"Hide and seek is for toddlers," Jonathan said, his tone teasing.

"I know, thanks for reminding me," Gloria replied, her eyes rolling.

"I think all the bottles here must be jealous because your beauty is the most intoxicating thing in this bar," Jonathan said, his words dripping with charm.

"What can I say? It's natural. I'm gifted," Gloria said, her smile confident.

"Do you mind if I worship you the whole night?" Jonathan asked, his eyes locked on hers.

"Do you?" Gloria replied, her tone dry.

"No, not a bit! I can't stop looking at you, yet you're not my new phone. Am I under your spell?" Jonathan asked, his tone playful.

"No. You're drunk," Gloria said, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

"I haven't even finished my first drink," Jonathan protested.

"You're still a novice," Gloria said, her smile knowing.

"I am glad the night is on us. I'll let you be the judge of that," Jonathan said, his eyes gleaming with intention.

"Don't be crumbled when your high hopes are let down," Gloria said, her tone warning.

"Sure. Do you know any karate moves?" Jonathan asked, his tone sudden.

"No, why?" Gloria replied, her eyes narrowing.

"I don't want you to kick me when I grab your ass," Jonathan said, his tone brazen.

"I need a bodyguard to protect me from perverts like you!" Gloria exclaimed, her eyes flashing.

"You don't need a bodyguard. You need a 'bootyguard,'" Jonathan said, his grin unrepentant.

"Give up already! You're such a pain in my ass!" Gloria said, her tone exasperated.

"If I'm a pain in your ass, then we can just add more lubricant," Jonathan said, his tone unapologetic.

Gloria stood up, her drink in hand. "Iʼm going to sit somewhere else."

Jonathan caught her arm, his eyes locked on hers. "Can you drive me to the motel? Iʼm too drunk to drive, and you wouldnʼt want me to get a DWI, would you?"

Gloria smiled, her eyes sparkling. "Well..."

Jonathan leaned in, his lips brushing against her ear. "Just say yes, and I wonʼt have to spike your drink."

Gloriaʼs smile widened, and she nodded. Jonathanʼs lips met hers in a passionate kiss as they rushed towards the restroom, their chemistry igniting the night.