Our Sick Inheritance (editing)

Chapter 17 - On A Path To Hatred

Applying the final touches of perfection to her face Harmony finally broached the subject that Anna had been dreading to talk about.

"So, what happened last night? I was at Terry's party to tell you I was with Skyler and you didn't pick up your phone." Harmony asked.

"Don't you remember I told you I was meeting Ryan?" Anna said carefully.

"Oh no, I don't. Was Ryan hot?" Harmony asked but Anna knew she wasn't going to let it go.

"He wasn't as perfect as his picture, but yeah, he was cute. This was after several drinks when he looked more confused than angry." Anna shrugged and showed Harmony Ryan's picture on the wall.

"We were getting along well until his girlfriend showed up and knocked me on my ass." Anna smiled.

"Ouch. So that is the reason for the extra shadowing?" Harmony held her gaze through the mirror, tender concern in her eyes. Harmony never missed a thing. She helped Anna hide the bruise. Anna smiled as she watched Harmony's fluid movements glided a makeup brush across her face to perfect the shading to bring out her eyes and give less attention to her cheeks.

"Why was Ryan angry then?"

Anna just stared at Harmony and wondered if she was at the bar. Anna had looked around but was more focused on Ryan showing up than paying attention to anyone else. Harmony laughed and shook her head.

"I check the site from time from time at home and matched up the names. I am ok with you using my picture to lure guys. I just want you to be safe. You haven't had much luck from the Internet since you decided to start dating these last few months. Besides I don't need anyone stalking me just because my picture is up." Harmony grimaced which made Anna laugh.

"The whole experience was disappointing, but it will make a good article." Anna said making Harmony laugh.

"Why did she slap you instead of him?" Harmony paused to look at her work.

"I told him he could stay because I had enough money to make all of his fantasies come true, which is what pissed her off." Anna replied now feeling a bit ashamed.

"She didn't recognize you as the one behind the magazine from your picture being on the articles as well? She was pretty active planning her wedding on the site."

"No, I wore a short black wig." Anna replied as she closed her eyes to feel Harmony's gentle attentions. The pill was making Harmony radiate heat stronger from her skin and Anna was so close to her she could wrap her arms around her if she wanted to. She knew Harmony would let her.

"And Ryan followed her out driving drunk?" Harmony asked then replaced her makeup in its bag.

"I assume so. I offered to call and pay for a cab since I was the one who kept supplying him the drinks. He pretty much rushed right after her. I saw him hand the bouncer money and he was gone. I don't know if he drove or what because I know he could barely walk, but he was looked really angry so who knows. I should be madder than he was since I am the one that got hit. I drove home myself right after and didn't see him in the parking lot." Anna said with a sigh.

"My face still hurts from her damn slap. I've been slapped before, but I think she actually almost knocked me out because it took a few minutes for my eyesight to refocus. I was so dizzy, sick, and lightheaded." Anna looked down at her dress and straightened it.

Harmony turned to her and with their chests almost touching and tipped up Anna's face. She brushed her lips across Anna's bruise.

"I promise you this party will take your mind off of stupid guys." Harmony smiled. "Never mind, just relax tonight and enjoy watching the crazy people. I just want to go tonight to destroy a relationship too." Harmony laughed at Anna's grimace.