The guy cocks his head to the side and shrugs, trying again.
In a panic, instead of just confronting him, I decide I don’t want to dance anymore, and I turn away to hurry off the dance floor toward the bar.
My hands are shaking a little, and I think another tequila might help.
Leaning over the bar to wave for the barman’s attention, I feel a hand brush down my spine, and to my horror, I turn to see the same dark-haired guy standing over me again.
“Come on, sweetheart, it’s only a dance,” he smiles.
My stomach lurches nervously.
“No, thank you. I don’t want to dance.”
“Just one dance, though. Or let me buy you a drink. This dress looks incredible on you,” he says smoothly, brushing his hand over my side. I push his hand away, and the panic inside me spikes even more.
“I said no, okay? I’m just here with my friends, and I don’t want…”
Out of nowhere, Simon arrives, forcing himself between the guy and me. He turns to glare at the guy. “You need to move on, asshole. She’s not interested.”
The guy sneers, “I’m pretty sure she can speak for herself, man. Your interference is not welcome!” he snaps.
In a flash, Simon has the guy by the collar, pulling him close, snarling in his face.
“I swear I will break every bone in your body, you piece of shit. Don’t fucking test me!”
The guy’s eyes shoot wide. He wasn’t expecting the fight to escalate that quickly.
He raises his hands defensively. “Whatever, fuck’s sake, I don’t fucking care! She’s not that hot anyway,” he snaps, backing away as soon as Simon releases him.
I stare in shock and relief. I can’t believe Simon is here, but I’m so thankful. As I watch him confront the asshole who wouldn’t leave me alone, I realize something.
When guys flirt with me, I panic. It’s just how it is. But somehow, with Simon, I can be incredibly attracted to him without being on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Sure, he still makes me nervous, but not like that. Not in the way I am used to reacting near guys.
Simon turns toward me as I get ready to thank him for saving me. My body is still shaky from the encounter with the guy, and I am relieved he was chased away. But when I see the look on Simon’s face, my body tenses in surprise.
“So, this is what you do when you’re out?” he snaps angrily.
“Excuse me!” I huff, hoping I don’t sound as drunk as I feel. My adrenaline is already high; I don’t need to be lectured by Simon on top of it.
“I never would have agreed to this if I had known this would happen!”
“What would happen! I didn’t do anything! It’s not my fault he was pushy and forward. I didn’t invite him here or encourage him in any way!” I blurt out.
Simon shakes his head, and I suddenly feel overwhelmed with emotion.
