The Boss's Game

14: BOOZY

"Please don't make me say it again."

"I'm sorry, I just..."

"You don't have to say anything right now. I just needed you to know how I felt."

I couldn't believe this. Was he really saying he was in love with me? Like actually... in love?

"Why now, Sam? Why have you chosen now to all of a sudden tell me you're in love with me after I agreed to everything?"

"Like I said... I needed you to know how I felt."

I can't lie. Hearing him say those words made my heart flutter... but can I really love someone that wants to set up a plan so no one else can have me, when he could forget about all that and just have a simple relationship with someone he claims to love?

My gut tells me, yes, he could... but my heart knows the real answer to that.

"Falling in love with me wasn't part of the deal though, was it?"

"No, it wasn't. But I needed you to know. I can't lie to you. I won't lie to you."

"You do realise this just makes this whole situation more complicated, right?"

"I get that, I do. But Ellie, I can't help the way I feel when I'm around you. It's electric. It's like you hold some kind of power over me."

I looked at the sincere look in his eyes. He can't have this both ways, he either wants me tied to him with a contract, or he wants to be with me in a committed relationship.

"You can't have this both ways, Sam. You either want me tied to you by a piece of paper, or you want a relationship with me. So pick one!"

He furrowed his brows. I guess he was a little shocked at the tone in my voice.

"You're right, I have a decision to make."

"Too right you do. And until then, this contract doesn't mean a thing, ok?"

"Ok. Fair enough."

"Good. Now I'm going out. I need a drink."

I walked out the door, slamming it behind me as I went, leaving him there to ponder on his thoughts... and to decided what it was he really wanted from me.

***

I walked around for a bit and found a local bar. I was downing tequila shots like they were water. Why? Because I was more confused than ever right now, and this was the only thing that seemed to help.

"Hey there pretty lady. What's a fine girl like you doing here all by herself?"

"Having a drink, what does it look like!"

"So... No boyfriend then?" He asked, moving closer to me.

"If I say yes, will you leave me alone?" I said, signaling the barman for another drink.

"Depends..."

"On what?" I asked, turning to face him.

"On whether or not you'll come home with me tonight." He said, a smirk on his face.

Is he being serious right now?

I leaned in closer to him, and spoke in a whisper so only he could hear... "I'll come home with you... in your dreams."

I turned away from him, and he placed his hand on my arm lightly.