Confrontation.

A few hours later I was sitting in my apartment waiting for James to return when Ace came round. I had texted asking him to come over telling him it was an emergency.

“Hey,” he smiled walking in the door.

“Hey,” I smiled back meekly.

“What’s up? I got your text” he asked walking over to where I was standing in my dark and empty apartment. He lifted up my chin and looked into my eyes.

“James’s gone again,” I replied turning my head away from him and looking down.

“What? Gone where?” he asked frowning.“I don’t fucking know! He just started acting all weird okay, and now he’s gone and it’s all MY fault!” I snapped.

“Scarlett, babe, calm down, nothing is your fault okay?” he replied sternly. I shook my head.

“You don’t even know,” I huffed. He looked slightly hurt. “Why does he keep doing this, what are we doing so wrong Ace? Billie and I are always there for him, always, he’s so immature, It’s not funny anymore,”  I added.


“Sit down,” he said softly. I reluctantly sat down with him on the sofa. “Now do you wanna know what I think?” he asked.  I nodded slowly. “I think this has something to do with the drugs,” he said. I looked confused.
“What do you mean, he’s stopped that now,” suddenly the penny dropped, “you think he’s still taking them?” I asked.
“Scarlett I’m not saying he’s doing anything, I’m only suggesting what could be the problem here, he’s been acting weird for a reason, it would make sense.”
“You think he’s… addicted…” I started chewing on my bottom lip, “I should have helped him more.”
“Scarlett, it wasn't up to you to help him." he told me. 


"But how would you know this anyway?" I asked."Scarlett, I’m not going to lie to you, I've had plenty of friends who have been addicted to drugs  and as much as I tried it was impossible to help them, unless they want to stop themselves.”

“But James isn't a drug addict, it was that Rodger he met, he forced him, ugh I could kill him, I’m gonna find him, I'm gonna kill him!” I suddenly got up.
“Woah, woah, slow down feisty,” he smiled grabbing me and pulling me back. “Call James first, you really need to talk to him,” He said. I signed and nodded. I took a deep breath and walked over to grab my phone.
“James, if you don’t get back here in the next ten minutes all your shit is going in the bin and I’m not joking right now!” I shouted. 
I slammed the phone down and almost broke down in tears. I hated all of this; I hated feeling angry and letting Ace see all the bad sides of me before he had even gotten to see all the good sides. Even though meeting Ace was the best thing ever, I wished I hadn't met him yet.
“Hey, hey,” Ace said slipping his hands around my waist and turning my body to face him. “Everything is going to be fine,” he told me.
“But what do I do Ace, I don’t want a best friend who’s addicted to drugs, I want to help him but this is all too much, he's gone too far.” I said. 

Ace had to go home because he had work early tomorrow but I told him I would be fine. James returned about 20 minutes later, late was better than never, right?
“James is it true?” I asked as soon as he walked in the door. He strode though my living room looking confused and pissed off. I could tell he was drunk, his face was red and as he walked his body fell to the side. “Are you addicted to drugs James,” I asked sternly placing my hand on my hip.
“What are you talking about Scarlet, I've come to get my stuff and I’m going somewhere else.” He walked towards me and I could see his eyes were wide and blood shot. 

“James are you fucking taking drugs?” I screamed.


“I’m not addicted Scarlet, I just enjoy it every now and then! Oh, oh, is goody two shoes Scarlett going to call the police,” his voice changed from moody to patronising.


“James, I thought you were over this, are you still seeing Rodger too?” I asked.
“No, Scarlett, it’s just me.”
“And your precious drugs?” I mocked. He signed angrily.

“Just leave me alone okay, you don’t need to control my life, you or Billie,” he begun grabbing his stuff from around my apartment and stuffing them inside a large leather bag.
“What did we do wrong James, we were great friends to you, why didn't you tell us about this?” I said.

“It’s nothing to do with you, I just enjoy taking drugs okay, loads of people do it, you need to grow up Scarlett, all you do is follow Billie around like her little bitch thinking everything she says is fucking gospel, live a little!” he laughed. I shook my head.

“Did you bring drugs back here?” I asked softly. He ignored me. “Did you bring drugs into MY fucking apartment?” I screamed.
“Yes!” he shouted back, “Do you want some, here” he asked reaching into his jean pocket and pulling out a little plastic bag containing some white powder, ”here, have some!” He threw the bag at me and I watched as it flew past me and landed on the carpet at the bottom of my feet.

“What the fuck James!” I shouted, quickly falling to my knees. I tried to pick it up but as I did the bag split open and the powder spilled out though my hands and onto the carpet.

“I want you and this shit out of my apartment! Do you even know how serious this is?” I shouted. James shrugged and carried on stuffing his stuff into his bag. I threw away the bag and scooped up as much of the powder as I could, I would hoover the rest up later.
When he was finished packing up his stuff he left without a word.

As soon as the door slammed shut I collapsed onto the sofa and felt the tears fill my eyes. Before I could fight back the tears they were streaming down my face. I felt my body shake as I cried harder and harder. I sobbed until my eyes were red and my face was wet with tears.  I was just regaining composure when I heard the hinges on my door creek.

“Ace,” I said, wiping the tears from my cheeks, “is that you?” I called out

“Sorry, no, it’s me,” said a male voice from behind me. I jumped up and turned around quickly.  “Matt from next door, you remember, Jane’s fiancé… ex fiancé,” he said running his fingers through his mousy hair. I looked blankly at him. “I’m sorry for just walking in like this, oh god this looks creepy, no no, I just heard you crying, I wanted to see if you were okay, the door was open” he said quickly.
 
“It’s fine,” I replied sniffing, “I’m fine.” I said sitting up straight.“Right, right, I’ll er, I’ll go,” he said awkwardly, adjusting his glasses. I smiled.“Thank you, for seeing if I was okay,” I smiled sadly as she walked out of my apartment and shut the door behind him.




 

All Over Again...

The next morning I woke up with Ace's arm wrapped around me. I smiled and turned over to face him. I watched him as he slept and couldn't help but think maybe I was falling for him.

“I know you’re watching me,” he then said with his eyes still shut. I suddenly jumped.

“I’m sorry!” I laughed feeling slightly embarrassed. He then opened his eyes and leaned in to kiss me. I smiled and kissed him back. I turned back over and looked at the time on my alarm clock. It was already 7am.

“I better get up, ugh I hate Mondays,” he groaned getting out of my bed.

“Feel free to use the shower,” I smiled lying in bed. The great thing about Monday for me was that because I was still studying to be a vet it meant I had to attend college at least once a week which started much later than working in the surgery did. As I lay in bed I felt myself drifting back to sleep.

“Hey,” Ace laughed giving me a gentle nudge. I jumped as I woke up suddenly. “Sorry to wake you, I’m off now though, have fun at college,” he said giving me a kiss on my fore head. I smiled as I watched him walk out of my apartment.

The day felt like it was going on forever. Although college wasn't as tense as the surgery was, the amount of writing I had to do was crazy. I was one of them people who have to write EVERYTHING down or I'll forget it as soon as I walk out of the building. When I got back home I decided to text Billie with my aching hand.

“Ace and I are dating,” I announced to Billie and James after college. We had all gone back to Billie’s apartment and she had made us a super yummy Dutch dish for dinner. James and I had not spoken since he stormed out of my apartment yesterday as he didn't come back last night. I wanted to be mad at him but I also didn't want to upset him.

“Oh my god, I knew it!” Billie exclaimed, “James knew it too didn't you James?” she smiled looking at James, he nodded, texting on his phone.

“It’s like I’m dreaming, I’m super happy, he’s so sexy!” I told them, I was blushing just thinking about him.

“And you totally had sex with him last night didn't you!” she exclaimed pointing at me and giving me a smirk. I hated how well she knew me.

“Yes!” I laughed my cheeks burning up, “and it was amazing!” I giggled like a 10 year old.

“Has he got his whip out yet?” she giggled raising her eye brow.

“No! He’s not even like that Bills,” I laughed.

“You’ll see, soon all them ropes and gags will come out…”

“Billie! shut up!" I laughed. "Anyway, I’m up for anything,” I shrugged. Billie’s eyes widened.

“Woah girl, look at you all sassy and confident!” she laughed.

“Yeah well, I wanna try new things now and I don’t think I could say no to him, he’s so sweet but at the same time he’s sexy, it’s weird… he’s perfect,” I smiled, feeling butterflies in my tummy.

“ahh, this is so exciting, I've got to meet him!” she laughed.

“I don’t want to meet him,” James then interrupted looking up from his phone. “You hardly know him Scarlet, when you spend time with him and you find out he’s a self-centered dick who’s fucking someone else on the side then watch how it all changes,” James he groaned. Billie shot him a what-the-major-fuck look.

“James?!” she exclaimed, “Scarlett is obviously happy right now, why would you say that?” she burst glaring at him.

“Bills its fine, James is right, were sorry for talking about this, I know after what happened it must be hard to listen-“

“No Scarlett!" Billie interrupted, "I find it unbelievable how he could be so ungrateful after everything you and I have done for him!” she exclaimed.

“I don’t even want to stay with Scarlet and you haven’t done anything for me apart from cook me this shitty Dutch food!” James shouted. My mouth dropped.

“Fine, leave then!” Billie screamed pointing at the door.  James stood up.

“James, you don’t have to,” I said quickly standing up. James pushed past me and walked towards the door. “No!” I called running after him and grabbing his arm trying to make him stop.

“Get off me, I’m obviously not wanted here!” he shouted shrugging me away and walking out the door.

“Look what you've done!” I shouted at Billie. I quickly ran down the stairs calling his name. I tried to catch up with him but once I came out of her apartment building I had no idea which direction he had gone.

“Ugh!” I shouted, stamping my foot. I couldn't deal with James going AWOL all over again…

Hot And Steamy.

Luckily when I got back from dinner with Billie last night James was there. He apologised for not telling me where he was and told me he had been back to his apartment to collect his stuff. I was just glad he hadn't disappeared on us again however something in the way he acted did feel a little odd. He was acting like there was something he wasn’t telling me which was odd because James is usually very open and chatty with any of his problems. I was worried about his silence but what I didn’t realise was that this was just the quiet before the storm…

“What are you doing today?” he asked making me brunch; I had woken up pretty late.

“Erm, I’m not sure really,” I replied, flicking though the channels on my TV.

“Oh, okay, I’m… I’m going out,” he said quickly.

“Oh, okay, where you going?” I asked casually, getting up and walking over to help him with brunch.

“Just out, do I need to tell you where I’m going, jeez!” He shot me an angry look.

“No, no, sorry, I was just asking,” I said backing away from him.

“I’m only living here because I have nowhere else to bloody go!” He snapped.

“Okay, okay” I replied holding my hands up.

“You’re not my mother Scarlett!” he shouted, slamming the frying pan down, “make you own bloody food!” He then grabbed his coat and stormed out the door.
“Wow,” I breathed after the door slammed. I could understand that looking for a new apartment would be stressful for him and also having to live with and rely on someone else but I enjoyed having him here. Having him here made me feel less lonely and I hadn't even thought of getting a pet since! I really didn't get what his deal was. I decided to get myself ready and ask Billie If she wanted to go out somewhere. I was just finishing off my makeup when I heard my apartment buzzer go off.

“Hello?” I said, thinking maybe it was James coming back to apologise.

“Hey, its Ace, I was passing by and I, well wondered if maybe you wanted to like, hang out?” he asked. I smiled; I could tell he was nervous.

“Sure, hang on,” I replied, buzzing him in. A few moments later he was at my door.

“Im soo sorry I’m not even dressed yet!” I blushed opening the door for him and then rushing into my bed room. I quickly threw on a pair of light grey skinny jeans and an oversized maroon jumper with a white heart on it. I threw my hair up into a messy pony tail and opened the door. “Done!” I smiled. I noticed he looked a bit distracted.

“You look… great,” He smiled nodding his head, his eyes not looking at me. I frowned.

“Is everything okay?” I asked.

“Scarlett, do you have a boyfriend?” He then asked, still avoiding eye contact with me.

“What, a boy friend?” I exclaimed, “Do you think I’d be going on dates with you if I had a boyfriend?” I replied slightly annoyed.

“No, no! It’s just, there are guys clothes everywhere… I thought maybe you was gonna friend zone me or something,” he smiled. I didn't smile back.

“Ace, those are James’s clothes! He’s staying here, why couldn't you have just asked whose clothes they were rather than insult me like that?” I burst.

“Woah, I didn't mean it like that Scarlett, your taking this badly, I just wanted to make sure, some girls do that, I didn't think you was that girl, I was sure you wasn't but, if you had seen women’s clothes all over my apartment you’d be pretty thrown too, wouldn't you?” he asked.

“Ace I do not have a boyfriend, why are so bothered whether I have a boyfriend or not anyway!?”

“Scarlet I want to be your boyfriend!” he shouted back. Suddenly I was taken back.

“You, you do?” I asked. He walked closer and put his hands on my face. He didn't say anything. He just gave me that mysterious half smile and gently kissed me on the lips. I looked into his eyes and smiled before kissing him back, a little bit harder and a lot more passionately than before. Suddenly his hands where on my waist and we were kissing each other harder and harder. His hands slipped up my jumper and slowly lifted it off. I blushed realising I wasn't wearing sexy or matching underwear. He reached round, unclipped my bra and smiled as it fell off my shoulders. We continued kissing each other while he lifted me up and wrapped my legs around him and carried me into the bedroom. I laughed as he threw me onto the bed and he climbed on top of me. After crawling on top he kissed down my neck onto my naked breasts. I moaned with pleasure as I felt his tongue circle around my hard nipples and then suck on them; it felt so good and I wanted him now more desperately than ever. I reached down and unbuckled his belt. We then helped each other take off our jeans. I slowly unbuttoned his shirt while we made out slowly and passionately. After I’d thrown his shirt off he slid down my body and I separated my legs wrapping them around his. I heard him sigh softly as he slid inside of me.

Things were a blur from then on. After we had finished I lay panting, trying to catch my breath. A few moments later Ace sat up and looked at me, he had that grin on his face. He leaned in a kissed me softly on the lips and his hair fell into his eyes. I smiled and tucked it behind his ear. Damn he was cute.

I woke up a few  hours later and noticed my bed was empty. I got up, threw on an over sized t-shirt and walked into the living room where I found a small piece of paper resting on the kitchen counter.

Just gone to grab us something to eat… keep the bed warm ;)  Ace x

I blushed suddenly realising my makeup must be a total mess right now and I was all sweaty. I hurried into the bathroom and quickly turned on the shower. I threw my top on the floor and stepped inside. I shivered as the hot water hit against my cold skin. I reached for the shower gel and poured it onto my body before massaging it into my skin. I thought I heard something but I ignored it, too busy trying to finish my shower before Ace came back.  Suddenly I felt a pair of cold hands slip around my foamy body and I screeched.

“Woah! Owch, it's just me shh” He laughed being to feel up my body. He was naked and his clothes lay next to mine on the bathroom floor.

“Fuck, you scared me, don’t do that!” I laughed turning around and slapping his chest playfully.

“Well the door was open and I couldn't resist…” I smiled as we begun kissing each other. He cupped my face with his hand and kissed me stronger and more passionately than ever before. The water run down both our naked bodies as we pressed closely together, his wet lips exploring down my neck. He then pushed me back against the wall of the shower and kissed further down towards my firm breasts. I tilted my head back until it gently hit against the wall and moaned softly as he kissed around my breasts, my body excited and my nipples hard. He then wrapped his arms back around me and pulled me in closer to him. “Breakfast Is gonna get cold.” He smiled; reaching for my hand and helping me step out of the shower. I wrapped myself up with a towel and combed through my wet hair as he prepared and reheated the ramen noodles he had got us for dinner.

“These are so good, where did you get them?,” I smiled tucking into my food.

“Oh, a little place I know,” he grinned. What could be better than sex, a hot a steamy make out session in the shower followed by ramen noodles?!

“I’m seriously falling behind on the whole gym thing though…” I smiled kinda guilty.

“Well now you have me to work out with…” he laughed giving me a flirty smile. We sat up till late watching Jackie Chan movies in bed. I couldn't believe I actually had a boyfriend, am I dreaming right now?

A Little Bit Of Me Time.

It’s Saturday! Finally, I could not believe how long these last couple of days have felt. I decided to spend some time alone and hit the gym for a couple of hours. I made myself some banana oatmeal cookies, they are healthy and super easy to make, all you need to do is mash a banana, add oats, bake in the oven and tada! You have a super yummy AND healthy breakfast, I can be healthy too when I want to be, don’t let all that fast food fool you! I was just finishing up at the gym when I got a call from Billie asking to go out tonight. I was thinking of asking Ace out tonight but I couldn't let her down.

When I got back from the gym and after showering and changing I decided I would go out and treat myself. I decided to have my hair re-dip dyed which looked amazing, my hair is naturally a very dark brown colour and can sometimes feel  boring and dull so having a change really made me feel more confident and sexy. The ends of my hair were now a caramel blonde and I couldn't wait to show Billie latter. I also decided to get a massage and facial which I rarely bothered with but working out and all the friend and work related stress made me feel like I needed some pampering' I was tempted to get my nails done too but working with animals and having long nails wasn't a good idea I told myself. After that I done a bit of clothes shopping. I grabbed myself quite a few bargains which made me feel good, I hated spending full price on things. Finally, before returning home I also done a bit of grocery shopping.

When I came through the door of my apartment I noticed James had gone out. I felt it was kinda weird that he didn't even tell me or leave a note but I shrugged it off thinking he’s probably just gone back to his place to get his stuff or something. It was almost time to meet Billie so I decided to get ready. I picked out a black and cream polka dot collared shirt and some tight fitting black jeans. I went for the highest heels I had which made me legs look crazy long. I was just transferring my purse from my everyday handbag to a different one which I used when I went out when I heard my phone buzz.
“Hey Scarlett,” Billie said.

“Hey, I’m feeling like Italian,” I grinned.

“Mmm, yes!” she smiled, obviously feeling the same.

We met at this small little Italian restaurant which we knew did the best tiramisu. Billie looked a little run down however when she saw me her face lit up and she smiled. “Scarlett, you look great!” she said, giving me a huge hug.

“I treated myself,” I smiled, holding up the ends of my hair.

“Ooo,” she smiled, “I like it!” Billie had lighter brown hair which was naturally super curly and I envied her so much, she never had to worry about it looking flat or dull because she always had perfect natural curls. She also was very tanned which I also envied, but she often said she would do anything to have my paler skin, why do women always want what they don’t have?!

Billie and I sat down and ordered ourselves some red wine. Once it arrived we begun talking.
“So, is James okay?” she asked taking a huge gulp.

“Yeah, he’s fine, he’s still looking for a new place though,” I smiled. She nodded. “But its weird, he wasn't there when I came home today he’s been acting funny recently I was gonna talk to you about it,” I told her.

“What? You’re meant to be keeping an eye on him scarlet!” She suddenly exclaimed. I looked at her confused. “I thought you would look after him not let him stray again!” she sighed angrily.

“But what am I meant to do? Ban him from leaving the house? He’s a grown man Bills,” I argued.

“Yes but, he didn't leave a note, a text, nothing?” I shook my head. I could see she was about to lay into me so I was glad when the waitress came to ask us what we wanted to order. I decided to go for goat’s cheese and roasted tomato pizza while Billie ordered spaghetti Bolognese.

“So, how are things with you?” I asked quickly after the waitress left. She looked down at the table cloth.

“Well… I wanted to talk to you about something,” she said softly.

“Oh, what is it?” I asked feeling concerned.

“You remember Freddy Parker?” she asked. I nodded remembering how they had been re-united on Boxing Day after not seeing each other since high school.

“Well after Boxing day we begun texting and it was fun but then he started getting all serious so I told him I wasn't interested in him and he started  texting even more, all day and night saying how sorry he is and whatever…” she then reached down into her bag and pulled out her phone. “Look,” she said passing it over to me. I looked down at the screen and she wasn't even exaggerating. There were hundreds of texts from Freddy begging and pleading her to talk to him.

“Wow, Billie, I mean, I don’t know what to say,” I replied, my mouth dry.

“Well nor do I! I thought he would get the idea and stop but well he hasn't, I didn't even lead him on or anything! He said he’s gonna show up at my apartment and wait for me to talk to him, Scarlett he said he’s in love with me…” I was listening to her while scrolling down the never ending roll of messages.

“Bills, I… I’m gonna call him, I’m gonna tell him to back off!” I suddenly said just as the waitress came over with our order. She placed our pates down and gave me a funny look before scurrying off again.

“Scarlett you don’t need to I promise, I’m really not threatened by him, he’s Freddy Parker for god sake! He just thinks he’s irresistible now he’s turned good looking but no, he’s still a weirdo and I still DON’T like him,” she said taking her phone back and putting it back into her bag. I smiled and begun to eat my food.

“Ugh I just don’t know how I get myself into this mess,” she then moaned stabbing her fork into her spaghetti with a slight smile.

“Neither do I…” I laughed, cutting into my pizza. I’m glad it didn't bother her too much but I did feel so angry, why was Freddy being like this?

“Why can’t I find myself a decent man, are there even any decent men left? Because I can’t find them,” she huffed.

“I know how you feel…” I smiled.

“But you have Ace! And he sounds really great, and now you have that Jake guy, I mean he sounds kinda desperate but at least he’s sort of normal!” I laughed.  “And you know maybe it was romantic, girl he must be crazy about you right?” she laughed.

“I don’t know,” I smiled, “but we will see how it goes,” I smiled.

“You’re totally going on a date with him aren't you!” she exclaimed. I couldn't help but blush.

“Maybe, I can tell I won’t like him, he’s not my type,” I shrugged eating a mouth full of pizza.

“Well, see how it goes right? I’m still rooting for Ace though,” she grinned.

“Me too,” I smiled.

Billie and I ended the night by sharing a huge tiramisu, I was glad I’d gone to the gym now. After we had paid we decided to go straight home both of us too tired to go anywhere else.

“Bye, call me if the whole Freddy situation gets any worse okay?” I smiled getting out of the taxi. She nodded with a smile.

“And you call me if James is still not there, she replied. I waved and walked up the stairs to my apartment building. As I opened the door I could feel someone watching me.

Is It Obvious?

“This place looks like a bombs hit it,” Billie groaned  standing in the middle of James's apartment.
“More like Rodger hit it…” I muttered opening up the black bin bag I was holding. “Right, this bag’s for rubbish,” I said holding up one bag, “and this one is for all of James’s clothes.” I said holding up the other bag. Billie nodded.
“What about all his bits and bobs?” Billie asked looking around.
“Well once we've cleaned up and brought him back some new clothes he can come here and sort that out himself.”

About an hour later we finished. I had wiped down all of his kitchen work tops and mopped the floor. Billie had sorted out all of his clothes and also packed his tooth brush and other essentials. We were just finishing up and about to leave when Billie stopped still.
“What?” I asked noticing her turn pale.
“Scarlett did you close that door?” she asked. I looked over.
“Nope,” I shrugged.
“Well I told you I opened it so I could air the place out!” she snapped.
“Ok, Ok,!” I walked towards the door and opened it, “Its open now, see? Now come on, I’m gonna be late for work.” Billie looked reluctant but she finally nodded and walked out. As the door slammed behind me I felt a chill down my spine.

Work was slow today so I decided I’d talk to Michael. I felt a bit silly for storming out like I did when I think back to it.
“Hey Michael,” I smiled. He nodded. “James is fine now…” I then said, standing awkwardly in the middle of the break room while he ate his lunch.
“That’s good Scarlett,” he nodded, not even looking up at me.
“Yes, it’s great,” I smiled. His attitude agitated me a little but I shrugged it off. “Michael I would like to apologize for storming out and well… shouting at you like I did last week…” He then looked up and was about to speak when I interrupted him. “I really like working with you and I don’t want to cause any tension between us, It’s just that I was upset and what you suggested me do was completely out of order.”
“Scarlett, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable, I just feel very strongly against drugs-“
“I do too! But I couldn't and wouldn't do that to him!”
“Scarlett just listen, its fine, there is no tension,” he said rolling his eyes.
“Fine, I get it,” I sighed walking back out of the room. How did I manage to make this situation worse? I spent the rest of the day sitting in reception with the receptionists. I talked to Amy about it and she said he has been grumpy and snappy with her all day too. Maybe something was up? Amy and I also decided to go out to dinner one day next week, I couldn't wait. I’d actually never been out with Amy before but I’m sure it would be fun. Amy is in her thirties and already has three small children. I love children so listening to her telling me stories when works slow makes me smile, especially how she talks so passionately about them, it's really cute.

When I got home James was sitting on the sofa watching TV. I slipped of my shoes and sat down on the sofa.
“Long day? James asked. I nodded. “Dinner is in the oven.” I quickly got up and opened up the oven door to a huge pot of bubbling casserole.
“James, do you want some?” I asked dishing it out.
“I err, I ate already,” he said quickly, “I actually don’t feel well, I’m gonna go to bed.” He quickly got up and disappeared into the bathroom.
“James, is everything okay?” I called after him, noticing he was acting strange. There was no reply.

Since I was now alone I decided I'd call Jake since after all I had told him i would. As I dialed his number and waited while it rang I had a feeling I was doing the wrong thing. 

 “Hey Jake its Scarlett,” I said.

“Scarlett?! Hey!” He replied.
“I just called to ask if you still wanted to go out sometime?” I asked casually.
“Sure, yes, when?” He asked, clearly eager.
“Erm, sometime next week? I'm busy this weekend,” I replied.
“Okay, sure, I'll text you okay? I'm really looking forward to it already,” I could tell he was smiling.
“Me too,” I smiled, lying. I did want to go on a date with him but I knew already I wouldn't like him enough for it to go anywhere else. I thought about Ace and signed, is it too obvious I’m totally in love with him?

Confession Time.

I decided I would let James stay with me until things had died down a bit. I felt good helping him out however I did feel slightly nervous. If that guy Rodger was as crazy as James had described him to be, what would stop him finding out where I live and coming round here? I knew it was a risk but it was worth it, I couldn't let James go back to his smashed up apartment with all the memories.

“I’m going to look for a new apartment…” James said as he sat down in front of the TV. He had just cooked me the most amazing lasagna as a thank you for letting him stay here.
“Oh, really?” I smiled.
“Yeah, I mean I really don’t wanna go back there, Rodger knows where I live, I’m scared he will try to get me back.”
“I think that’s a good idea James, Billie and I will go over there and give it a good clean up before you try selling it,” I smiled.
“Yeah, that’s a good idea too, I've also taken some personal time off work,” he smiled, sipping from his glass of red wine.
“But don’t rush, I want you to feel ready first,” I said softly. He smiled, his attention now on the TV.
“James….” I said nervously.
“Yeah babe?” He replied, still focused on the TV.
“I… I need to talk to you about something…” He then looked at me.
“What’s up?” He asked. I had been thinking about telling him for ages, I thought if anyone knows how I'm feeling right now it would be James, after all he must have been confused about his sexuality at one point.
“I, I kissed a girl!” I burst. He looked a little shocked and then started laughing.
“You did what?!”
“My neighbour, she practically jumped on me! But we kissed and I kinda… enjoyed it? But then she went too far and I stopped!”
“Woah, woah, slow down honey, so this girl started kissing you and you let her but then she did what?”
“She put… James! I feel so awkward talking about this, she put her hand down my pants…”
“Wow, what a slut,” James said raising his eye brow.
“Who? Me? No I stopped her!” I said defensively.
“Hush! I’m joking okay? You kissed a girl and you liked it, so what?” he laughed.
“But… now I feel guilty… I threw her out after!” I said.
“Scarlett! That’s harsh, from what you’re saying you did kind of lead her on…”
“But, I didn't mean to!” I felt like crying, “I was curious, yeah I let her kiss me but… oh god James, I feel so bad… and confused!”
“Are you confused about your sexuality?” He asked softly.
“Well after, yes! But now, after having time to think about it, no, I don’t think I am, I like guys, I love guys, I couldn't imagine myself being with a woman and even though kissing one was fun I don’t think I’d want to do it again.” I replied sternly.
“Besides that... she’s engaged.” I then said.
“Right okay, maybe you were right to throw her out…” he then laughed, “but as soon as she kissed you, you should have said no Scarlett, If you seemed like you enjoyed it, she might have thought you wanted to carry on” He said sternly. I nodded.
“Should I tell her fiancé?” I asked, biting my bottom lip.
“That’s tough.”
“I think she might have cheated on him before though, I mean she didn't hold back…I just get the feeling she doesn't really love him,” I said softly.
“Well then it’s your call,” he replied shrugging. I guess it really was my call. To be honest I didn't really know the guy and there was a possibility I’d never even talk to him again. But I decided if we ever did talk and there was a chance for me to tell him I probably should warn him, that’s the right thing to do, right?

Kinda Creepy.

I woke up the next morning with Billie in bed beside me and James on the sofa. I checked my phone and saw had a text message from Ace.

“Happy New Year! X”

I suddenly felt guilty. After seeing James in my apartment I couldn't think of anything else and I now felt bad for ignoring him. What if he was all alone on New Years because of me? I decided to give him a call.

“Hey,” I said after he picked up the phone, “It’s Scarlett.”
“Oh hey Scarlett, are you okay? What’s up?” He asked sounding concerned.
“I’m fine, I’m fine, I just wanted to say I’m sorry about last night.”
“Sorry? Why?” he asked.
“For making you leave, I didn't wanna seem rude, I am really sorry.”
“Listen Scarlet its fine, your friend’s safety more important than me, I’m just glad he’s okay.”
“Me too, do you... do you wanna go out sometime this weekend?” I asked trying to sound casual.
“Yeah, sure, going out with you is…. Fun,” he laughed.
“I promise it won’t end like something out of Eastenders this time.” I heard him laugh.
“Listen, I gotta go, works getting busy,” he said.
“Oh, you went into work early, that is brave!” I laughed, “I’m going in this afternoon, Ill text you what day we can go out, thank you for understanding.” I put the phone down to Ace then I heard Billie groan as she woke up.
“Morning sleeping beauty,” I laughed.
“Shh!” she moaned, covering her face with her hands. She had always been self-conscious of her face while she slept. “What time is it?” she asked sitting up.
“What the hell Billie you’re not even drunk!” I laughed, scrolling through my phone.
“I’m just tired okay! Works been mega crazy, that and James going missing has really messed up my sleep.”
Billie worked as a wedding organizer, we had always joked that I’d never let her plan my wedding after all the moaning she does about her clients.
“Go back to sleep then, I do have work in an hour or so though,” I reminded her as I walked into the kitchen. James was lying flat out on the sofa snoring. I laughed to myself, I had such lazy friends, but I realised now it was horrible living without them. I made some cereal and watched some morning TV. I was just getting ready for work when my phone buzzed. It was an unknown number. 

“Hey, who is this?” I asked.
“Hey, sorry, it’s me Jake… from the train we met on-“
“I remember… how did you get my number?” I asked remembering it was him who had given out his number.
“Right… this is gonna sound kind of weird but when I put my number into your phone an email notification popped up and I accidently clicked on it… I saw your name was Scarlet May and I managed to find you on Facebook, I found your number on there…”
“Right okay, that is kinda creepy,” I said, a bit freaked out.
“I know, but I really wanted to see you again, I knew you wasn’t gonna call me, girls I like never really do,” he laughed. I didn’t know whether to be flattered or put the phone down on him.
“Jake, I’m sorry I didn't call you, I wanted to its just so much has happened since meeting you, I didn't mean to give you the wrong-“
“Scarlett, it’s okay, I just wondered if you still wanted to go on that date I've been dreaming of?” He asked so sweetly I found myself saying yes.
As soon as I put the phone down I regretted it. The guy stalked my Facebook to get my number for god sake, why was my number even on Facebook?! I rushed to my computer and logged on. I scrolled down for ages until I noticed I’d written my phone number down as a comment on a distant family members status.
“Hey, what you doing, don’t you have work?” Billie asked walking out of the shower.
“Billie, would you be freaked out if a guy scrolled through months and months of posts and status’s on Facebook in order to find your number?” I asked. She nodded.
“For sure, I mean that’s borderline stalking,” she laughed, grabbing my hair dryer, “can I use this?” she asked holding it up. I nodded.
“But it could be romantic….?” I said.
“Hmm, nope, weird,” she laughed, “why?”
“There was this guy I met on the train to my parents, he gave me his number but I never called him, but he called me just now, he said he found my number on Facebook,” I told her.
“You put the phone down and told him to get a life right?”
“No… were going on a date actually,” I replied awkwardly.
“You’re joking right?” she burst, “you’re too soft, what about Ace? James had been telling he’s a great guy Scarlett!”
“Billie, Ace and I are just dating, it’s not serious… yet, it’s just a date! He isn’t even my type he’s blonde and cheesy,” I laughed.
“And how would you feel if Ace was dating another girl?” Billie asked. I thought about it, I would feel kinda jealous but we aren’t in a relationship I reminded myself.
“I’d be cool with that,” I shrugged. Billie looked as if she didn’t believe me. And she was probably right, I did really like Ace, he was my type, he had a great personality and I really did like being with him but still a part of me wanted to date other guys too…

After the whole James situation Michael and I hadn’t really spoken to eachother, apart from when we were working together. And today was the same. Work was kinda slow but the customers we had were super annoying. This one woman almost had a panic attack because she had to wait for 10 minutes before Michael and I could check her Chihuahua over, since when was a tick an emergency?
“Please can you just sit down?” I asked trying to keep my cool, “the vet can’t see you right now, he’s with a customer.”
“Well some people actually have things to do!” she screeched, “some people don’t have time to sit around in a waiting room!”
“But he’s busy!” I hissed, trying not to upset the other people in the surgery.
“I don’t care! Do you know how much my insurance costs, what if my little baby dies because your busy!”
“I assure you your dog will not die, he has a tick, the vet will get it out of him when he’s done with this customer.” I replied calmly.
“If you’re wrong young lady, don’t think for one minuet I won’t sue your little arse!” I looked at her as if she was crazy and nodded my head. “And also if they charge me for missing my hair appointment I will hold you personally responsible, do you understand that?” I nodded my head and ushered her away from the receptionist desk. About a minuet latter Michael came out. He has obviously heard all the shouting and asked me what was wrong.
“Just don’t make her wait any longer, or she’ll you know, sue us,” I laughed. He smiled and called out her name. As she walked past me she tried as hard as she could to knock me out of the way.
“Finally!” she exclaimed, “I get to see a proper vet…” she turned and gave me a nasty look. I rolled my eyes and closed the door.