Chapter Four

Raven

It’s early evening, and I’m almost ready to go out with that couple—strangers. My introverted ass is kicking up a storm, making my palms sweat as I carefully apply my makeup, sitting at the vintage vanity in my bedroom. I hum absently to a melody that’s been stuck in my head, anything to distract from the anxious churn of going out. The rain pounds heavily against the window, a reminder to take an umbrella with me.

When I’m finished, I pause to take in my reflection: my red is hair styled in loose curls, framing my face in a way that softens my features. The subtle makeup highlights my cheekbones and jaw, but it’s the dark eyeliner and mascara that make my blue irises stand out. My dress is fitted, sitting off my shoulders and hugging my curves, its deep neckline emphasizing my collarbones and the mounds of my breasts.

My gaze drifts to the necklace lying on the vanity in front of me, a thin silver chain with a black diamond pendant, the only piece I have from my mom. I lift it, letting it dangle and catch the dim light before clasping it around my neck. My fingers graze over the cold gemstone as I look in the mirror, watching as it catches tiny sparks of light.

A gentle brush against my bare legs pulls me from my thoughts, and I glance down, smiling as I see Midnight winding around my ankles. Reaching down, I stroke her soft fur.

“I won’t be long, Middy,” I murmur. “Just a couple of drinks. I don’t plan to stay.”

It’s the weekend, and while there’s no work tomorrow, the idea of staying out, partying the night away, has never been my style, but maybe a quick night out won’t be so bad. It might what I need.

I lean down, lifting Midnight and cradling her against my chest. Her soft purrs vibrate warmly against me as I grab my small bag, slip into a pair of tall black heels, and make my way downstairs.

Gently setting her down on the couch, I throw on my long coat, tying it snugly around my waist, and watch as she curls into a cozy ball, eyes drooping as if ready for a sleep. Just then, a knock at the door startles both of us. I take a steadying inhale, slide the bag strap over my shoulder, and pick up my umbrella.

With one last glance at Midnight, I head for the door. The cold evening breeze hits as I pull it open, sending my hair sweeping behind me, and I’m met with both their eyes on me, dressed up with broad, welcoming smiles.

“You look great!” The woman exclaims, her energy contagious, and I manage a warm smile back.

“Oh, and we forgot to introduce ourselves this morning! I’m Jess, and this is my fiancé, Mike.”

I nod, looking between the two of them. “Nice to meet you both officially. I’m Raven.”

With a slight shuffle, they step aside, and I glance one more time toward Midnight before locking the door. We all head up the street, umbrellas up against the heavy rain, and chat easily as we walk. They’re friendly, and despite my nerves, I find myself relaxing a little more.

Eventually, we arrive at a small bar isolated in the middle of nowhere but alive with the warm glow of lights and soft laughter from inside. Mike holds the door open for us, and Jess and I slip inside, closing our umbrellas. The place isn’t overly packed yet, and I’m thankful for it. As we head to the bar and order our drinks, I feel myself easing into the unfamiliar but strangely comforting atmosphere.

When I notice Jess is drinking something flat with no alcohol, I turn to face her.

“You’re not drinking?” I ask just as the glass touches her lips.

“No, unfortunately I’m on call tonight. They told me last minute. I’m a community nurse, but hopefully nothing arises, and I can stay.”

I give a small nod as I lift my own drink, taking a long sip of the fruity liquid.

“So, do you have a boyfriend back home?” she continues, her green eyes warm and curious.

I shake my head, offering a small smile. “Nope, no boyfriend.”

“Oh, that’s a shame,” she says.

Is it? I silently think to myself, swirling my drink. I’ve never been the type to go searching for my Prince Charming; knowing my luck, I’d probably fall for the villain anyway. I’ve dated a bit, mostly back in college, bad guys typically, yet none really scratched that itch. The problem with men is they can talk the talk easily, but when it comes to walking the walk? Pretty useless. Also between juggling work and losing my dad so suddenly, relationships have been the last thing on my mind.

Do I crave intimacy? Sex? Of course. Someone to be there for me no matter what and rely on sounds nice, but I’m not about to go out chasing it.

Jess’s attention lingers on me for a second longer, and I can tell she’s intrigued, maybe even concerned. I don’t blame her—it’s just that real life has a funny way of overshadowing fairy tales.

“So, when’s the big day?” I probe, aiming to steer the conversation away from my not-so-sunny dating life.

“Oh, we’ve only just got engaged!” she says, beaming, and flashes her hand to show off the diamond on her finger. “No date yet, but Mike here doesn’t want to wait.” She giggles, leaning into him, and he wraps an arm around her shoulders with a proud grin.

I feel the urge to roll my eyes but catch myself. Why am I out here with an adoring couple anyway? Watching them, so giddy and in love, is starting to make my skin itch, but maybe it’s the fact that I’m alone and somewhere, deep down, maybe I somewhat envy them. I only have Midnight waiting for me back home. I toss back my drink, hoping the alcohol will dull the edge of it all and maybe loosen me up enough to enjoy tonight, even if it’s just for a while.

After a few more rounds, the alcohol has laced a soft warmth through my body, making everything blur into the background. When someone turns on the jukebox and a lively beat spills out, Jess grabs my arm and pulls me off my bar stool.

“Come on, let’s dance!” she giggles, barely giving me a chance to steady myself as I stumble after her, heels clicking on the floor and a drunken laugh spills from my lips.

We sway and move to the music on the small dance floor, and then, out of nowhere, Jess presses in close, her body brushing against mine in a playful, seductive rhythm. I roll with it, feeling a familiar thrill. I’ve danced with girls before, hell, I’ve even drunkenly made out with them.

But this time, I can feel eyes on us, especially Mike’s greedy gaze from across the room. His stare burns, intense and unblinking, and it prickles my senses. I’m suddenly aware of other eyes, too—curious, watching from the shadows around the bar. I let the alcohol drown the discomfort and dance with Jess under the lights, feeling the hum of the night pulse around us.