Girl Meets True Self

Chapter 4

         

"Let's go upstairs."

"Upstairs? Why? Everyone is down here in the ballroom," Riley looked at Lucas confused.

"I told you I had a surprise planned for you. You coming?" he said with a sincere smile.

"Oh, ya lets go."

He led her to the elevators and hit the button for the 12th floor.

"We aren't going to the lobby?"

"No, I have a room for us."

Riley began to realize what the special night Lucas had planned really meant. Before she could say anything the elevator stopped at their floor and he grabbed hold of her hand and led her down the hall.

"Room 1249. This is us."

"Lucas..."

He inserted the keycard and opened the door to reveal a room lit by candle light. Fake rose peddles created a path from the door to the bedroom.

"I wanted it to be special for you. I love you, Riley."

"I don't know what to say," and that was true. She was at a loss for words.

"You don't need to say anything," he said as he leaned in to claim her mouth.

She backed away and placed a hand on his chest to stop him, "Lucas, no."

His face changed from one of joy to heartache. "What's wrong? I did everything how you imagined it didn't I? I wanted to to be perfect for you."

"How I imagined it? We've never even discussed this."

"I asked Maya what I should do."

Riley looked horrified, "You told her we were going to sleep together tonight?" her voice grew louder with each word.

"Its not like it was a surprise! We've been together for over two years, Riley!"

"I'm not ready for this."

"Oh," She could tell he was hurt despite how he tried to keep his composure. "Are you not ready to be with me? Or are you just wishing it was someone else?"

"What the hell is that supposed to mean?"

"I'm not stupid Riley. I see the way you stare longingly. I guess I thought tonight would prove you really did pick me."

"Pick you? I've never stared at another guy!"

"Not a guy, and don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about. Stop lying to me. I'm not an idiot! I've seen the way you look at her."

Riley looked as if she was just slapped in the face. "What?"

"Maya, Riley!"

"I don't understand what you're saying."

"Who would you rather be with tonight? Me or her?"

Riley just stared at him, mouth agape.

"I'm tired of being your consultation prize, Riley. I'm done." He pushed passed her towards the door.

"Lucas, wait!"

"Why?" He turned around to face her. "What am I waiting for? I've been waiting! I've pushed aside these feelings and I can't do it anymore. Either you're with me completely or not at all. I'm not settling for just part of you anymore."

"Please stop," she cried.

"She's the one you want. Maybe we've both been pretending. I just can't anymore, Riley."

And then he was gone.