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Their eyes go wide. No one ever expects someone that looks like me to be a firefighter.
“Isn’t that a man’s job?” James asks and I instantly pray they don’t pull my name tonight.
“No, it’s not. Women are more than capable of thriving in the profession.”
“So, you’re an extraordinary person. We’re perfect for each other, accountants are too. You know what accountants suffer from that ordinary people don’t?”
I shake my head, waiting to see what’s going to come from his mouth.
“Depreciation.” Henry, oddly, told a funny joke and I can’t help but throw my head back in laughter.
We continue the conversation for a while longer, but it never gets any better. James asks one sexual question after the other, with Henry telling corny accountant jokes.
They continue to step closer and closer to me even with my attempts to retreat. They don’t seem to get the hint. James moves slightly to the side and I catch sight of two of the most handsome men I’ve ever seen heading my way.
The closer they get, the more I recognize the taller, muscular one. It’s the guy from the grocery store.
Fuck me. I didn’t think I’d ever see him again. I wish the ground would open up and swallow me whole.
As the panic builds, I sway a little on my feet. I’m so focused on him walking toward me that I don’t realize Henry has slipped his arm around my waist until he starts pulling me closer to him.
“Dang baby, has one drink got you swaying?”
“Huh?” I try to pull away from him, but he grips me a little tighter, and instantly alarms go off in my head.
“Where are you going, doll?”
“I’m going to the ladies’ room to freshen up real quick.” I pull out of his grip this time and begin to walk away.
“You’re coming back, right? James asks.
“Of course.” I’m not.
It’s a lie.
I plan to stay away from them the rest of the night, and god forbid, if they pull my key, I will simply not participate. As the lady earlier said, my safety is her top priority.
Well, not just mine, but all of us that are participating.
Walking into the bathroom, I set my glass down on the counter before gripping the edge, taking a deep breath, as I look at myself in the mirror.
“You okay?” someone whispers and I glance over, realizing I’m not alone.
Shit, I must look like an idiot.
“Yeah, it’s just overwhelming. I feel like the girl on the show with all the single men vying for her attention.” I force a laugh.
“It is. But have you seen all the hot bodies out there? Just let your inhibitions run free and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
“You’re right. I guess I should get back out there and meet some more people. I’m nervous about who's going to pull my key.”
“That’s the thrill of it, sweetie, the mystery.” She winks as she opens the door and steps out of the bathroom.
While I’m thankful for the little pep talk, my thoughts zero in on the fact that she didn’t wash her hands.
Note to self: don’t shake her hand or take anything from her.
When I finally catch my breath and my heartbeat slows down, I grip the handle of the door and pull it open. Walking out with my head down, I run straight into a wall.
