Scars

CHAPTER TWO - What's your number?

The drive to the disco was fast, but I couldn't shake off the image of that massive guy from the restaurant. "Forgot to ask how tall he was," I giggled to myself. Once inside, Ivan, my bodyguard, introduced himself and escorted me to my VIP table.

"Miss Spencer. Please follow me." He guided me to a set of luxurious white leather sofas and a chic glass table, complete with a bottle of red wine and some fancy snacks.

The VIP area was separated by delicate white curtains, creating an exclusive atmosphere. Ivan was doing an excellent job keeping people away. Men were swarming as soon as they noticed a woman drinking alone, but my VIP status made sure I was left undisturbed.

I reveled in the wine and music, enjoying myself thoroughly when I spotted a commotion nearby. When I recognized who it was, a smug smile spread across my face. Moscow is enormous, yet here I was, running into the same guy from the restaurant. He was with his brother, Mark's girlfriend, and another guy.

Their table was just two away from mine. When he tried to approach, I lifted my glass of wine in a mock toast, and his surprised smile was priceless. "Sorry, Mr. Ivanov, but I have orders not to let anyone get closer to Miss Spencer."

"Even me?"

"Anyone, Sir. I'm really sorry."

The surprise on his face was delightful, and I savored every moment of his frustration. I settled back into my seat, sipping my wine with a satisfied grin, my ego soaring with delight. "Cheers!" I mouthed with a playful smirk. "We will see about that." He mouths back, but reluctantly returns to his table. I continue to enjoy the evening, feeling utterly triumphant.

Until...

– Tristan –

Dinner with my brother and his insufferable girlfriend was already grating. I love Mark, but Selena was not only a poor match for him but also a pain in the ass. Her irritating laugh and constant need for attention were ruining what should have been a pleasant evening.

When she finally went to the restroom, I seized the chance to vent. "Seriously, Mark, why her? She's a walking disaster!" I said, exasperated.

"I know, brother, but the deal with her father is too good to pass up. I'm trying, but not too hard," Mark replied, shrugging. "Do you even put up with her?" I asked, curious.

"I just let people see us together. She's happy with the attention, and I get to keep things smooth," Mark said with a nonchalant shrug. "She's average in bed, but after a few drinks, I manage," Mark admitted with a smirk.

"Ha! Now I get why once a week you reek of alcohol when you come home. Gross!" I laughed. "As I said it's a deal too good to pass up, despite her being a walking headache. She's young and clueless, but maybe she has some potential buried deep somewhere."

"Very deep, I'd say. Maybe even lost!" I joked, after a while Selena got back, and our night moved on. Suddenly the aroma of roses drifted through the air, leading me to her, I looked around until I saw. Dark chocolate skin in an elegant sleek black dress, her high ponytail swinging as she moved.

Her red lips were irresistible, and her figure was absolutely stunning. Her minimal makeup accentuated her natural beauty, and her polite smile was disarming. Yet, her dark eyes seemed lonely but at ease. "This is where I come in," I thought and a smile came to my lips.

"What are you staring at, Tristan?" Selena's whiny voice yanked me from my thoughts. "I just found my date!" I said, feigning excitement. Mark studies her, he knows I'm all in for the game of conquering that beautiful goddess.

He gives me an approving look. "Well done. Now you just need to make her know she's your date!" Selena sneered instead. "Ugh, why her? She looks ancient! And not in a flattering way."