When You Least Expect It

Chapter 5

Hannah was on a high having spent the last 3 hours singing and dancing to some of her favorite songs from her high school years. Julie and Monica had just as much fun as they danced with her. It was so nice to get away from the real word for a few hours and not think about her sons, her job or her life.

After the concert ended, they moved towards an usher and asked him where they should go next. He directed them to the side of the stage where a small group of about 15 people were waiting. He had them join that group for a few minutes before another usher came and escorted them to a door and ramp where they were met with a very large man whom she could only assume was the bouncer.

He looked menacing as they each went up to have their credentials scanned to show they were allowed to be there. He scowled at the other people in the group, who Monica found out had won a contest from a radio station. But when the three friends came up to him, he was much nicer and actually winked at Hannah as she went by.

"What is with you lately? Do you have some new perfume that says 'single and ready for a good time?' "Julie asked in a whisper.

Monica laughed as Hannah smacked her arm and blushed. They walked into a large area where all the bands were with other various people as well as Joey. He saw them enter and came over smiling.

"Hannah, I'm so glad you made it! Who are your lovely friends?" He asked.

"Thank you for this Joey. We had a great time! These are my best friends, Monica and Julie."

Joey shook their hands, "Welcome. Enjoy yourselves. Food and drinks are to the right. Make yourself at home and HAVE FUN!"

They thanked him again as they moved farther inside the room. Many of the men said hi to them and invited them into their groups. They found themselves drawn in quickly and were soon laughing, drinking and talking. Hannah was having a great time, but found herself looking around for Jackson discretely. She was disappointed not seeing him milling around and went to get another drink. She was waiting for the bartender when she felt him behind her.

She didn't have to turn around to know he was there but smiled to herself at the thought of seeing him. And that shocked her too. This was someone she just met; she was being ridiculous to think that there was any feeling reciprocated in the slightest.

"Hi Hannah," He said as he reached around her to grab a beer that was on the bar.

"Hello Jackson," She replied shyly again.

"I was right, that really is your color. You look even more beautiful up close," He said making her blush again.

"Thank y-what do you mean up close? Where were you sitting in during the concert?"

He chuckled, "I was in the owner's box with some other big wigs. I had some work to take care of, but I could see where you were sitting and saw how much you liked the concert."

"We did, very much. Thank you again Jackson."

"I'm sorry I was late getting here, but I had some calls and emails to get to, but I hope that we can talk now."

"Sure!" Hannah said trying not to appear too eager.

Smiling, Jackson took her by the elbow and led her to an out of the way couch and little table. They set there drinks down and were soon engaged and oblivious to the others and the noise in the room. Julie and Monica noticed that Hannah hadn't been around in a little while and noticed her with a man in the corner.

They were leaning close together and Julie noticed that the man had his finger in Hannah's arm and was lightly rubbing her skin. The two looked at each other then went over to the couch to see what was going on.