Back To Black

Rose Petals and Rooftops

My mother always told me to stick with the man that makes you feel secure when he touches your hand. She said this is the man you will marry. Don't fall for the boy that makes your heart flutter and jump out of your chest at the touch of his hand. He's the one who'll break your heart.

I feared the rejection we'd get from the hostess, as we walked up to her. I was sure that she'd look at us, see right past Danny's charm and laugh at us, right where we stood. As we became closer to her, regret filled my veins.

"Excuse me, miss." I looked at Danny, apprehensively as the hostess looked up toward us. Her smile was warm and her auburn, long hair was tied back, in a neat bun. I was more than sure that she'd turn us away, unfazed by Danny's cunningness, or simply disgusted by his charm. She didn't look like the type of girl you could fool.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't Mr. Suave, himself. Tell me, Danny, how's life treating you?" She leaned over the podium, resting her head on her hand. I was completely, taken aback, how did she know Danny?

"Jelena, long time, no see. I've been pretty good, just riding the waves of life. I see you're still cooped up in this little job of yours."

"What can I say, it pays well. I won't be here long, though." Danny chuckled and I stood there, noticing the chemistry between the two.

"That's what you told me a year ago."

"So, it's taking longer than usual." Her eyes glanced over to me, then back to Danny. "Who's your friend?" She nodded toward me.

"Jelena, this......." He took a step back, smiling at me and gesturing for me to join him. "This is the lovely, Jessa Donavan." Jelena's smile quickly turned into a mug.

"Well, it's nice to meet you, Jessa." Her words rolled of her tongue like sharp knives, and it was as if curled gun smoke replaced her smile.

"Nice to meet you too." She looked me up and down.

"Nice dress. I'd say it was a little expensive."

"Oh, yeah." I looked down, noticing the beauty of the dress.

"Did you steal it?"

"What? No, I'd never. Danny got it for me."

"Ohhhhhh, Danny got it for you, did he?" A fake smile formed in her face and she looked toward Danny in shock.

"Play nice, Jelena." Danny wrapped his arm around my waist, pulling me close.

"So, I'm guessing you want the special, huh?" My eyes looked up toward Danny and he looked down at me, smiling. "Right this way."

I took a hold of his hand and we both followed behind Jelena through the employees only door, to the kitchen, then back to another door. I could tell that she wasn't too happy about me, but yet I couldn't understand why. I mean the girl only knew me for what? Two minutes.

"Here you are." I looked to where Jelena was gesturing only to see a black door. Confusion rose in me as I stared at the large door.

"Uhhh, Danny......" He turned looking at me and Jelena leaned against the door, crossing her arms over her chest, obviously annoyed. "Why aren't we eating out there? With everyone else?"