Four Friends Chapter 4: A Proposal
Chapter 4
I avoided the bar for a few days, returning on a Thursday. It was early enough to dodge college crowds but not so early as to make it a day drinking session. While sitting at the bar, I sensed someone's presence.
"Howdy stranger."
"Olivia? Didn't foresee this, but glad to see you."
"And you, same goes for me. Katie informed us of your recent... situations and urged me to relay her apologies and to let you know that she's been off the rails and you might have an unexpected visitor in the middle of the night."
"I've been informed. Thanks."
Olivia scanned my face, her emotions hard to decipher - disdain? Curiosity? Judgement?
"What is it?"
"You're the only one who could pull off what she described," she said, nodding towards my actions from the previous Friday.
"Is that a good or bad thing?" I asked.
"Neither - just an observation."
"Are you good at reading people?"
"Nope, but I hope they're thinking it and just scared to confess."
"Do you practice that or is it a natural talent?"
"A bit of both. Can I buy you a drink?"
"Anything you prefer. Jack?" She was offered a drink, which she accepted. "You have a specific partner tonight?"
"Chloe, but things with her are unpredictable."
"I entertain appointments in advance, then," I replied.
"Any romantic relationship with your clients?"
"How observant - no. Though Katie says I'm not her typical client."
"When you say 'john', do you mean client, right?"
"Use any term you want - I've been called worse."
"So, do you find it odd to pay for sex?"
"Yes, odd and uncomfortable. There's no moral judgment, and I'd never judge a provider for doing what they need or want. As a capitalist, if they can make themselves valuable, why not?"
"What about your self-image?"
"Not great." I took a sip. "After my wife passed, I didn't want a relationship. Yet, I missed things about companionship. I went through some not-so-ideal experiences before I nearly gave up. When I met Chloe, things changed. While I'm probably delusional, Chloe and I, instead of a customer-provider relationship, feel more like friends who help support each other. She's brilliant, and we spend more time talking than any other activity."
Olivia shot me a puzzled look - she wasn't convinced. "She said you were interesting and that you two talk for hours."
"We do, but she's the brains of our relationship. The age difference bothers me. It's not unfair of me to worry about it. Women mature faster than boys. There's a huge contrast between girls my age and my wife's," I said thoughtfully. "I do, however, really enjoy our benefits."
"You're quite the character, David."
"Consider it a compliment. And yes, there's a mutual admiration for good looks; Katie and Alexis are grown-up women."
"You're a perplexing man, David."
"Takes one to know one. Another drink?"
"Are you trying to get me drunk?"
"No, just being friendly. Relationships with you three already established, I'd feel awkward if I stumbled upon you here without acknowledging it. Ok?"
"Alright, drink accepted."
Olivia and I conversed for several more hours, learning about her research interests, the reason she didn't enjoy teaching, her self-confidence yet lack of arrogance, and her insider knowledge of me.
I departed before Chloe arrived - it was getting near bedtime. Jack still eyed me peculiarly; I'd need to have a chat with him soon.
...
Friday and Saturday nights, I remained at home. I didn't want to disturb girlfriends' time, and it would've been irksome if I ran into them and didn't join in. I cherished my alone time, cooking and reading, radiating with pleasure. On Sunday, my sleep was interrupted when the doorbell rang. With my eyes still shutting, I dragged myself up and opened the door. Katie strolled in with steaming coffee, fresh muffins, and a juice. Thoroughly surprised and not quite awake, I swung open the door and silently moved to the kitchen where she set up these amenities.
After understanding the situation, I closed the door and accompanied her. "Please, come in. Are you a morning person?"
"Not always. I came to corner you since I know you usually sleep in. Do you have an issue with that?"
"No - your house is your house. I'm a bit unprepared for guests, could you mind waiting a bit?"
"Fine, as long as you don't plan to sneak out through a window or something."
"Good of you. And I'd like to make it clear that I haven't been avoiding you - just giving you space. You can't escape, not that you could." With a chuckle, I remembered that last time we met, I was the one held hostage.
"What's funny?"
"I'll tell you later." I took a shower without any thoughts about leaving someone I barely knew alone in my house. What the heck.
Cleaner and a little more prepared for guests, I found Katie drinking coffee and examining my belongings. "You have an interesting collection of things here - this picture is magnificent. I'd like to know more about all this, but that's not why I'm here."
"I'm happy you appreciate my taste." Taking a cup of coffee and a muffin, I sat on the couch. I also, with some hope, took some medication.
"Why are you here, then?"
"I want to learn more about you. If I'm going to engage in a sexual relationship with someone, I should know more than just their first name and address. Secondly, and more significantly, how can I regain my focus? If this continues, I might lose my job for being... well, distracted."
"While you're blonde, you're not 'a' blonde. I've barely known any real blondes who match the stereotype of being 'blonde,' as you described. As for your focus, it's just the thrill of the new. Your drive and ambition will return soon, possibly even stronger."
The look of surprise. "Why do you have to be so much older than me?"
"Because I am, and we need to address this. I enjoy spending time with you, and yes, I'm interested in learning more about you than just your intriguing desires. But this will not turn into a romantic relationship. I'm too old and too entrenched in my past. And you have a lot of life ahead of you, so you shouldn't be saddled with an old person."
"You're not that old."
"Old enough to be your dad, if not your grandfather. And any age difference beyond a single-digit is too much."
"So, I have no say in whether I love this or not?"
"Your feelings matter, but so do mine. I look forward to spending time with you, but I will be cheering you on when the time comes to move on."
"Chloe predicted you'd say something like that."
"You're the one who keeps talking about other people behind their backs. I'm not surprised - she knows me pretty well and honestly, I feel the same way about her."
"Speaking of which, are you planning on seeing Chloe again?"
"If she'll have me."
"And if I had a problem with that, would it matter?"
"Your feelings and Chloe's feelings matter, as well as mine. But - this sounds odd coming out of my mouth - I'm not expecting to be exclusive with anyone at this point in my life and I don't expect anyone else to be exclusive with me."
"So, I don't have to want a committed relationship with you?"
She smiled, breaking the intense mood. We sat down on the couch and floor, ate, drank, and conversed. She'd had enough time to reflect on her feelings from the previous weekend and wanted to know about mine as well.
"I'm excited about the opportunity to explore with you, learn your limits, and I'm interested in learning how to satisfy you. That's what I'm passionate about."
"So far, your instincts have been fairly accurate. I mean... I came more this week than I have in a while. The girls told me I'm more fun to be around."
"Can I ask a few more questions?"
"Again?"
"Yes, again. That's just how I am - get used to it." She nodded. "Did you like the unstructured nature of what we did, or did you prefer more structured experiences like enacting planned scenarios?"
"No, which amazes me. Normally, I'm quite the planner and enjoy story porn. You know, the schoolgirl and teacher scenarios... But not having to focus on a character, just allowing myself to feel was a big relief. I didn't realize I could just go with the flow like that - I'm not exactly calm and collected, if you haven't noticed."
"It's hard not to miss. For me, the typical stereotypes in the scene setting, such as those scenarios, don't resonate. I don't judge anyone for it, but it's just not what turns me on. But the type A personalities I know need to loosen up a bit." I thought of an appropriate example and decided to share it. "There's an old manga that was turned into a TV show about a brilliant student and her geeky childhood friend. She's so uptight that she's having trouble coping. But when he ties her up, she becomes more relaxed and does better in school."
"Really? What's it called? Can we watch it online?"
"I don't remember the exact name, but it involves a schoolgirl and her friend, I believe. Anyway, it's just an example of a common theme."
"Okay, I'll look it up on my own. Although, I might try to persuade you to watch it with me at some point."
"We'll see. Back to the interrogation. What didn't occur during the experience that, looking back, you wish had?"
"To start, no one got naked. There was no oral sex. There was no penetration other than fingers. I climaxed, but you didn't. I was restrained in one position..."
"Alright, let's hold off on the rest for now - what other positions were you held in?"
"Any position you can imagine - standing up, tied to the bed, a chair, the couch, the wall. Whatever you can come up with, I want to experience. And why didn't you have sex with me? Is there an issue? Am I not attractive enough?"
"Not at all, you're absolutely stunning and you'll only become even more so as time goes on. Anyone who isn't attracted to you must be dead inside. However, I have to take medication to function sexually, and I hadn't taken any during that time. In addition, you had a gag in your mouth, so you couldn't give your consent consent."
"So for future reference, I am consenting. I want, okay? If I change my mind, I'll let you know."
"Got it. We've already discussed using protection. Any other limitations? Positions you don't enjoy?"
"No anal play without discussing it beforehand. I'm not necessarily against it, but I'd want to be prepared. I do enjoy being repositioned and, as you discovered, a little choking is pleasant, just not too much. I like the sensation of a hand on my neck but also need to breathe."
She approached the couch. "Now it's my turn. Do you have any particular preferences?"
"I think you have a pretty good idea of my preferences, and anything you haven't seen directly, I suspect Chloe has filled you in on the details. But in terms of specifics, I find the backs and necks of women to be incredibly sexy, so it's exciting when it's from behind. I enjoy giving oral sex - receiving it is nice, but not as engaging as others make it out to be. I prefer to take my time and be careful with the audio stimulation - gagging sounds turn me off. It reminds me of my cats vomiting."
"Cats? You have cats?"
"Unfortunately, my older cat recently passed away, and I'm still mourning. I expect to adopt a new cat from the shelter soon. Is this an issue?"
"Not in the slightest. I grew up with them and enjoy their company."
"Great. And to wrap things up, I don't like rushing. While a quickie can be enjoyable, I prefer to savour the experience."
She sipped her coffee. "You're a breath of fresh air compared to the men I've known. This is going to be an interesting time."
"It already is. Could I treat you to lunch? Or do you have other commitments?"
"No, you're not off that easily again. I've got nothing planned for the rest of the day and I intend to keep you entertained." She stood up and straddled me. I was captivated by how good she smelled.
Unwilling to lose this opportunity, I ran my hands up her back, sides, neck and finally into her hair. I had my elbows outside her arms, pinning them to her sides. Slowly, I tightened my grip on her hair, holding her head in place as she expelled the air from her lungs. I held her and let my lips brush her shoulders and neck. I brought my hands down, one on each side of her neck. She stared at me, her eyes filled with curiosity and anticipation.
"Shall we keep the curtains drawn?" she asked.
"Aren't sure - what say you?" was his response.
"What about the neighbours? What'll they think?"
He retorted, "You believe me to care what the neighbours think?"
A faint smirk appeared on her face. "Leave 'em be."
With that, he pulled her towards him, and they shared a passionate kiss, more intense this time. Kneeling, his legs straddled hers on both sides, hands gripping her wrists, raising them above her head. His gaze never wavered. With his lips next to her ear, he breathed, "Don't move. Stay just like that." She nodded in agreement.
He first lifted off her shirt and then the sports bra, binding them around her wrists. She attempted to get her wrists off the couch, not realising that it was for temporary restraints. Instead, he took a pair of cuffs and replaced them. The cold metal jingled as he do so, pleasing both of them.
He then took a strap, pressing both arms under her from one side, drawing the strap through, and lifting her up and off the couch. Upside down, she raised her head to look at him, bewildered. Slowly lowering her, he replaced the cuffs with more permanent restraints. Flustered but excited, she smiled at the clinking.
Using his fingers over her skin, gently running them up and down her arms, torso, and legs, he paused to tighten or adjust something. Researching erogenous spots, he ensured he touched her all over. Her skin literally suctioned off the leather couch, making an enticing chiming noise.
After that, he rolled under her, grabbed a belt, and swiftly looped it around her waist while his fingers slid under her torso. Lifting her effortlessly, he pulled the belt with a surprise action, making her flip onto her stomach. Pinning her down with strength, he raised her wrists behind her back, reconnecting them.
Kneeling on her stiffening body, feeling her muscles, he then grasped a strap, looping it through both wrist and ankle cuffs, and pulling. In response, she arched her back, her head hanging low, panting desperately.
"I'm not sure I can handle this," she gasped, her voice showing her uncertainty.
"You can. I promise," he assured her.
Adjusting the hogtie to make her soft skin fairly arch her but not too tightly, he carefully took off his clothes and sat down next to her. Touching her hair as he stroked it, he turned it to the side, pulled it by the roots, and then lifted her head to look at him. "You know what to do if you want more."
Scooting towards him, it sounds like her body sliding on leather, and she slowly lowered her mouth onto him. Remembering his words, she went slowly and gently. If he was younger, the temptation would have been too great. Inside her mouth, she ran her tongue and lips along him, moaning slightly. Occasionally, he pulled on the strap, following her head movements. Oh my, I don't... I don't know if I can keep this up."
"You can," he reassured her, watching as she calmed and submitted to the hogtie. Her body looked sensational, one arm raised, the other stretched to the other end of the couch, her hair falling on either side of her neck. About to kiss her, he lifted her head.
He shifted her towards the side, drawing her hips up, sucking on her wrists, and wrapping a collar around her neck. Concealed in the collar was a rope, and he attached the ends to the ankle cuffs, pulling her legs wide open.
"So, that's what you mean when you say my turn," she said, as she didn't understand what he meant, her head tilted, eyes confused.
"Not what I meant," was his sharp reply.
Sliding to her side, he looped the collar around her hips, assuring it was tight enough to aid her arch. He then backed off and sat down. Breaking into a grin, he pulled her feet down towards his face and began licking her. Back and forth, kissing, touching, and caressing her, the thrill of her soft skin brought him to intense levels. After the bouts of pleasurable torture, he pushed her upper body up, leaving him aligned with her head on the floor. With a continuous sway, she sighed and responded, her eyes focused on a specific target. "You have raised the bar," she sighed.
There was no frustration from him, despite the long period of intense positioning. He leaned on her, accompanying her with a rhythmic sucking motion. Even when she repositioned herself back, she was leaning on a wrapper made out of leather. As he kissed her, they exchanged windows of love, swapping roles amidst the powerful electric connection.
It was evident from the trembling of her legs that she had reached ecstasy, but I didn't dare pause or calculate. She tasted more delicious than I could have fathomed. Eventually, my face became numb, prompting me to retreat. She continued gazing at me with an inscrutable expression. I shifted on my knees and kissed her, starting off intensely and then gradually easing up until our lips merely brushed against one another. As I repositioned myself, I unfastened the rope from her ankle cuffs.
"Wait, don't do that just yet. I must know how I appear - photographs?"
How could I object? I snapped photos. She didn't make any poses; she just sat there, disheveled and aglow. These images are precious items, valuable to both of us. She shared them with her girlfriends, yet I've never shared them, nor will I - they are meant for our eyes only.
I released her ankles and wrists. However, before I could stand up, she wrapped her arms and legs around my back, guiding me back to her. "Wait," she urged, "let me grab a condom."
"Screw you, Amelia informed me you're barren, and I'm not about to wait." She pressed herself against me. I had never before or since experienced anything comparable to what we engaged in. My back and knees throbbed from the strain, but neither of us seemed to mind. With fervor, I released my climax.
As the sun descended into the horizon, I shifted to the couch, where she rested her head in my lap. There was no need for a blanket due to the warmth emanating from her form. I stroked her hair. We studied each other with amusement, eventually finding ourselves shaking with laughter. She directed me onto my back and laid on top of me. We conversed about subjects I no longer recall, content to remain in each other's company.
She departed, showered, and asserted, "you're treating me to dinner." I had no right to deny her request.
...
This was not customary for me, but she refused to release me from her clutches on this particular evening, forcing me to bunk beside her rather than the spare room. When I regained consciousness in the morning, coffee was already brewing, but she was nowhere to be found. Knowing her proclivity for tardiness, I texted her and returned to my week.
I resumed my social routine on Wednesday, opting to sit in my usual spot at the bar. Unexpectedly, Dan manned the bar and recognized me. I thought I could ignore him, but he had other plans.
"Spill it. What's the deal with you and those young women?"
"I'm not referring to girls; they're grad students and adults. Ask your grandpa for advice! I inconspicuously sipped my drink. "I encountered one with red hair - Chloe - she and I attempted to share a table before. We delved into a discussion about studying and her occupation. I inquired about how she sustained her lifestyle. Six months after moving here and a year after my spouse's demise, I sheepishly inquired whether she witnessed older men. She accepted my invitation."
This account was not entirely false - we first met while being seated together. The conversation eventually led to her disclosing her line of work. It had been sometime after I relocated, mourning the loss of my wife and, feeling daring, I inquired about her sexual preference for older gents. The rest, as they say, transpired as expected.
"They're her friends. It's likely that they use me to obtain free drinks and deter men from approaching them. Perhaps they assume that my presence might ward off temptation. I'm the one footing the bill."
I believed he was convinced, as he momentarily stopped pressing the matter before resuming his duties. It was fortunate he ceased his inquiry.
Immediately afterwards, my phone vibrated with a text from Chloe.
"What the hell did you do to my girlfriend? That photo! And why haven't you done that to me?!"
I chuckled and replied. "Whatever she desired - remember, you instigated this. Should you wish to, feel free to request a date and time."
A few moments later, "Are you at the bar?"
Have you made a positive impact on her? Her anxiety issues have improved, and she seems more at ease. It was smart of you to introduce that manga; she needed to loosen up.
"That's her choice, but I'm grateful you've connected with her."
As you stretched your arms forward towards me, your wrists clasped together, a determined look crossed your face.
"Wait, I'm short on cash."
"You'll repay me, I trust you for it."
Lowering her hands to her lap, she questioned, "Isn't it awkward sharing you with your friend?"
"We've already talked about it and agreed to give it a try. Shouldn't you be the one to decide?"
"But what about my preference? It's not that simple!"
"The decision is already made. You thought this wasn't a romantic situation, right?"
"And is it weird that you're getting paid and not her?"
"Nope, I do my thing while they do theirs."
"But what about 'them'?"
"Olivia and Alexis might want some time with you as well." I observed an expression of surprise on your face. "No false modesty, mate. Between your and unique features, you could have any woman in our graduate program. Some men too, I imagine."
"Two of them at a time would be too much for me - four would be life-threatening. The whole school!?"
"In a way, it's a beautiful demise. But I'm not interested in having you pass away. It'll be four of us."
"No choice in the matter?"
"Nope. You might walk away, but I don't think you would."
Her hands were back up, pleading again. "That's unsettling. We haven't discussed this fully."
"No say in it?"
"Nope. It's just that I don't want you to end up dead in this."
"Still no say?"
"Nope. But would you truly reject this opportunity?" The playful pout on her lips questioned my intentions.
I took her wrists in my right hand, lifted my drink with the left, and responded, "I'm not ready for that. I'm not chemically prepared. Is that a problem for you?"
"No, as long as it's not a problem for you, and I'd like you at my place this time."
"This is new."
"I have a surprise for you."
"Another? I might not handle two in one night, let alone four." Getting closer to her, I once more observed the collection of belts, straps, and ropes on her bookshelf. I'd inquire about where she'd acquired these items later. Perched on top of the pile was a remote-controlled egg vibrator. Recognizing it, I asked, "Do you want me to use this?"
"I want to be tied, vibed, and ignored. Can you do that?"
"I'm sure we'll find out." Once more, I kissed her, sliding my hands onto her shoulders before pushing until she was on her knees. She leaned in, anticipating a kiss. Instead, I moved her away from the couch, causing her to fall onto her back.
"Hey, that's not fair."
"Apologies."
Examining her bound state, it was apparent she had left a small mirror for her to see herself. "And you're a bit of a narcissist, huh?"
"I'm all about good selfies."
"Can I take pictures?"
Laughing, "Of course, why didn't I think of that?"
I fetched my phone, snapping some creative photos, then positioned myself beside her. Leaning toward her, I touched her face and whispered, "You're gorgeous."
"Can you please remove the binding?"
"Sure, give me a moment."
Untying her hands, I asked if she wanted anything more.
"I don't know, what do you have in mind?"
"Let's see if this is comfortable," suggesting we move to the couch.
"Alright, let's give it a try."
Positioning her on her back close to the edge of the couch, I placed a tie around her ankles and another around her neck, anchoring it to a door knob. I guided her legs over her head. "I want you too," I whispered, breathless.
"Won't it hurt?"
"I don't want you to suffer, so let's return to the couch."
She agreed, and I brought her ankles together and bound them. Then I wrapped her neck and brought it close to her ankles. Spinning her around to face me, she looked at the scene and remarked, "I'm a bit of a narcissist."
"No denying that fact."
Sitting beside her on the couch, we commenced our encounter.
Let me make this clear: fairness doesn't come into play here. And you could clearly see the spark of desire in her eyes while mock glaring at you. I took the vibrator and settled on the couch, ensuring my foot touched her side but kept the rest of me out of reach while I figured out how it operated.
"What's going on up there?"
I observed the pile and noticed a scarf. "Asking too many questions," I replied, knotting the scarf's middle. I leaned over her and inquired, "Do I need to gag you?"
"Maybe..." I didn't contest.
Once she was quiet, I hunted for nipples beneath her straps, gently playing with one nipple using my thumb and forefinger. I started lightly, then increased the pressure and stretched the nipple. She attempted to turn away, but I held her with my knees. "You can resist as much as you want - you asked for this."
Reaching back, I slid the egg under her panties. A look of pleading filled her eyes. With her eyes shut, I turned the vibrator on, and she let her head fall back, closing her eyes. Turning it off, she stared at me. "This game is what you desired, remember." She breathed out through the gag. Was that a smile?
We continued our game, turning the vibrator on and off, longer and shorter intervals based on her reactions. Beyond the unbearable looks when she was just about to climax - only for the vibrator to stop. I also, upon her request, took images of her, getting more tousled with each sequence.
In the end, I increased the vibrator setting and placed a knee between her legs. She gasped, arched her back, and moaned, followed by some moments of tranquility and mirrored relaxation. She reverted to the desperate look, holding her breath, grinding my leg, bending her back, and eventually, she released. After the third time, I lifted my leg, turned off the remote, and withdrew the vibrator from her drenched panties.
Overhauling Chloe's body, I spoonsed her sweaty figure, remaining close and comforting until she ceased heaving. I put my arm under her head and loosened the gag. She slumped against my arm before falling asleep.
With her forehead resting on my forearm, I made efforts to release and detach what I could while avoiding waking her. By the time she became conscious, she was freed apart from her hands tucked around her neck. I habitually looped my left leg over the top of hers and kept her close. Eventually, she twisted onto her side, gazing at me after opening her eyes, and smiled.
With worry on her face, she inquired, "Why do you still have your clothes on?"
"No time to address that during the event. This was all about you, right?"
She reached down, seemingly pleased. "It's fine like this," she said. "You remember that this occurs to both of us."
Content with that answer, we conversed, shared kisses, and cuddled some more. We moved from the hard floor up to the couch. Somehow, Isabella shared her images and asked which ones to share. I swore that I wouldn't share them, yet she has the power to utilize them as she chooses.
She arose to retrieve water and snacks. Considering her place for the first time, I felt intrusive, realizing our connection had shifted. We needed to talk about this change later.
With understanding, she stated, "I suppose we've moved past Chloe. You've met my friends, you know where I live. My name is Isabella - Izzy in short."
"Delightful meeting you, even though you look more like an Isabella than an Izzy. Which do you want to be addressed as?"
"My family calls me Isabella while others call me Izzy - so Izzy is your choice."
"Fine by me."
Her gaze stayed on me. "Is that a Princess Bride reference?"
"My favorite movie, how did you know?"
"It's been a long time since we've talked in any real depth. This is getting more complicated."
"Yes, but very exciting. However, you mentioned feeling awkward because I'm dressed while you're not. I'm good with that, so how about if you clothe yourself as well?"
"I don't usually wear clothes at home, but for you, I'm making an exception. And the temperature is dropping a bit."
As my eyes noted her erect nipples, I joked, "You can thank me later for that."
After sliding into a loose T-shirt and some underwear, I needed more information. "So, was all of this part of a carefully crafted plan or are we just improvising as we go along?"
"It's a bit of both. Katie made it clear on Sunday that you were hers, so we gave you some space. And today, I made it known that this was my day. But as far as specific plans... well, we'll leave those up to you. You'll have to ask Olivia and Alexis about their wishes."
This statement should excite me, but strangely, I'm a bit frightened.
"You should be - Olivia can be volatile. Alexis is still a mystery. Maybe you can crack her code, like you did with Katie. I'm excited to find out."
"Even if I do, I won't tell her secrets to you. She'll have to share on her own."
"That's one thing we like about you - your respect for confidentiality. It's getting late - would you like to spend the night? I have an early seminar to deliver, but I trust you to lock up when you leave."
"I'm not sure I'm ready to share a bed with two different women in one week. Do you think I'll be insulted if I go home instead?"
"Actually, I'm relieved you're not insulted - I've always preferred sleeping alone, and that has created issues with past partners. One of the reasons I'm single so frequently."
"Clearly, they didn't understand you." She led me to the door, we hugged, and I began my descent. I heard the door close behind me and then open again. "David. One final thing. You're buying us all drinks on Friday night - there's a lot to talk about."
"So I've gathered. Am I obligated?"
"Absolutely."
"Well then, see you Friday."
"And David - always have drugs with you from now on. Got it?"
"Heading to the pharmacy right away."
I spent the entire week overthinking everything. What did she, or rather they, mean by saying there was stuff to discuss? What kinds of things - what were they planning? How did I end up in this situation, and how was I so lucky and so exhausted? I slept in late every morning until Friday and tried to head to bed early, but I'd close my eyes and picture Katie and Chloe, I mean Isabella, I mean Izzy. I couldn't wait for the week to end.
