Loyal

Chapter 63

Colin's POV

            Cameras start flashing as soon as I step out of the car. I put my shades up, they always keep my eyes from the glare. I smile and wave as I hand my keys to the valet, fixing the collar of my jacket. The flashing continues as I move forward, shaking hands as I head to convention center. The only thing on my mind is getting out of this damn place so I can go home. I'm not in the mood to be around people. 

           As soon as I get in, the shades come off and I press them into my breast pocket. The last thing I wanted to wear was red, but for some damn reason this was the only outfit that looked right on me. My tailor came in to fit it better to my body, so I ended up wearing it.  It reminded me too much of Vera, but it had to do. 

            "Hey Colin!" a familiar voice rises through the commotion around the entrance, and I feel a hand on my shoulder.

                        "Melody, here already?" I'm not in the damn mood to entertain company. Least of all her. 

            "How are you doing? Are you excited for the gala?" She asks. She's wearing an electric blue dress and it contrasts badly with my bright red. Why is she still talking to me?

                        "I'm fine Melody, just headed toward the ballroom."

            "Me too!"

I try to walk ahead of her, but her steps are just as quick to keep up with my long strides. Her heels clicking against the floor. Ever since being with Vera, I've softened. Otherwise I wouldn't have had a problem cuttin' her off, telling her to go. 

            "Isn't this place absolutely gorgeous? Doesn't it remind you of the ballroom at Nevada? The one in the rec center?"

            She's too damn close for comfort, now I'm getting irritated. 

                        "Yeah, yeah, I gotta find the players if you don't mind," I say, making it clear I'm trying to be left alone. 

            "Oh no, not a problem!"

I nod and head into the ballroom, but just as I make my way through the entrance Melody's arm is in mine.

            "You don't mind helping me find a seat do you?" She asks.

This bitch. I can't pull my arm away from hers because cameras start to flash. I awkwardly walk in, not knowing what to do. Melody smiles and basks in the light from each camera, pulling me closer, her nails practically clawing into my jacket. 

            I scan the ballroom, trying to figure out how the hell I'm supposed to get out of this damn witch's claws without seeming like an asshole. My eyes rest on a table where there's the same shade of red that I'm wearing. Vera. Vera, is here. I pause momentarily, trying to keep track of my thoughts when I see her.

            She looks away as soon as I catch her eye. Baby girl. Her long black hair is tied into a bun, her makeup nicely done. Fuck she doesn't need makeup. I can see her bright brown eyes from here, those perfect eyelashes. She's in a long figure hugging red dress. It covers her legs, those soft legs. As I'm admiring her, someone blocks my view. Cam. He's sitting beside her, reaching over to touch her leg. My leg. I feel anger rising in my chest, and my teeth involuntarily clench. I start walking again, making my way toward the bar. As soon as we get there I roughly take my arm from Melody. 

            "What was that?" I ask, trying to keep an even tone. I'm pissed off, and I know Vera saw us. Fuck, what is she thinking? Does she think I'm with Melody? Fuck.