City Girl

Charles

The next few days flew by as I worked at the parlor. Jax had called in sick, so I hadn't seen him around. I tried reaching out to him several times, but he never answered. It was clear he was avoiding me, and though I just wanted to talk, he was making it impossible. Maybe I deserved it?

Meg and I spent more time together, exploring different parts of the city. I was starting to get my bearings a bit better now. Boston was a sprawling place, and I felt fortunate to be right in the heart of it.

I tried my best to forget my past and live in the moment, but a wave of sadness always seemed ready to wash over me. I kept trying to call Trent, but he never picked up. I just needed some answers, but it felt like I was shouting into the void.

Staring at my reflection in the mirror, I admired the silk maroon dress I had bought with Meg at an upscale thrift store. It hugged my figure perfectly, and I accessorized with some faux gold jewelry. Charles had reached out, suggesting we spend some time together, and given everything that was going on, it felt like a welcome distraction. I did my best to look sophisticated—Boston was a whole different world from Lawndale, and I knew I had to rise to the occasion.

I took a deep breath and stepped out of the house, the cool Boston air brushing against my skin. Outside, a sleek black car was parked, and Charles leaned casually against it, arms crossed. A sly smirk played across his face. He was dressed impeccably in a slick black suit, his red hair neatly slicked back.

As I approached, he straightened up and opened the car door for me. "You look phenomenal," he said, his eyes sweeping over me from head to toe.

I felt a flush creep up my cheeks, a mix of embarrassment and flattery. "Thanks," I replied, trying to sound casual despite the fluttering in my stomach.

Once I slid into the plush leather back seat, the door closed with a soft thud. Charles entered from the other side, settling next to me in the back. I glanced towards the front and noticed a driver dressed in a black suit. I hadn't realized Charles was this wealthy; I had assumed he was just suburban rich.

The car pulled away smoothly from the curb, and I looked out the window as the city glided by. The streets were alive with energy, the glow of streetlights reflecting off the sleek buildings. I felt a mix of excitement and anxiety bubbling within me.

"So, where are we headed?" I asked, trying to keep the conversation light as I stole a glance at him. He was watching me with an expression that was both playful and intense.

"Just a little soirée," he said, his gaze lingering on my thighs as he scanned me. "One of those events I have to make an appearance at—but having a beautiful woman on my arm makes it much more bearable."

I felt a shiver run down my spine at his words. There was something both thrilling and unsettling about being referred to as his "beautiful woman." It was a compliment, but it also reminded me of the unusual dynamics of our relationship. I shifted slightly in my seat, trying to shake off the nervous energy that was building inside me.

"Sounds intriguing," I said, forcing a smile. "What kind of soirée is it?"

Charles leaned back in his seat, a confident grin on his face, his aged lines defied a little as he did. "Just a gathering of some influential people in the art and business world. You know, the usual mix of socialites and creatives. It can be a bit pretentious, but I like to think I make it fun."

I nodded, intrigued. "And what's my role in all of this?" I asked, half-jokingly. "Just eye candy?"

He chuckled, the sound deep and rich. "You're so much more than that, Mal. I want you to be yourself. Just be charming, and we'll have a great time. I'll introduce you to some interesting people, and who knows? You might even enjoy it."