Thee Intruder

 Chapter 2   Thee Intruder

Part 1

The area that was just a steamy paradise was now thick with awkward tension. The second Drake stepped through the threshold all remnants from their budding liaison evaporated. Drake’s gaze swept over Nicki, she stilled in embarrassment tightening her robe as far as it would go. He hadn’t expected SB to be there. Getting her alone was the only thing on his mind. Despite their visitor, all Nicki could think about was resuming where she and SB had left off, though she was Afraid of the consequences that could result in their new confessed love. But most of all she just wanted to be alone with her “Best Friend?” or was that now the wrong way to refer to him. Neither of them had an answer. She couldn’t care less what Drizzy’s purpose was for being there. It was obvious the way Drake felt about her and Safaree didn’t particularly like him to be around her, especially alone.

“I need to talk to Nicki.” He announced. “Alone.” Lies. Being alone with her was not necessary, but merely what he preferred. Nic did not switch her attention. At this very moment she wanted Safaree and Only Safaree. No one else would do. “You know you could have just called me.” She said irritated.

 “I had a feeling you wouldn’t answer.” He teased, and then shot SB a death glare.  Rolling his eyes SB just sat on the couch, watching as Drake Stepped further into the room, inviting himself the rest of the way in, now noticing the room was covered in a sticky mess, also taking in the dimmed light and the inactive TV. His speculations on what happened or would have happened here were too much for him to deal with, he didn’t even want to imagine. The idea of the “love of his life” with another man agitated him.

“Can you come back another time?” Nicki asked through clenched teeth, arms crossed over her chest.

“I could but it’ll only take a minute.” He urged. “And then I’m gone.” Nicki exhaled, gesturing to her room, inviting him in. Drake smiled to himself accepting her invite. Before entering she locked eyes with SB, who’s pleading gaze begged her not to go with Drake alone. She shook her head sadly.

“It’s okay.” She mouthed, disappearing behind the now closed door. Sitting next to Drake on her bed made her feel uneasy. Especially thinking about why he was there. Looking into his face she knew she wasn’t ready for what he was about to dish out. He couldn’t help but notice her soft air drying skin, illuminated by the moonlight that pierced the window. Curious if she was looking at him in the same way. There’s nothing he wanted more.

“Are you going to tell me why you’re here?” Nic asked irritated, she didn’t appreciate her time being wasted.

“Well” He began. “We haven’t seen each other in a while, and I was wondering if you wanted to hang out.” 

He held his breath waiting for her answer. She always made him nervous. Meanwhile SB was vigorously scrubbing the floors and walls of the living area. He needed to keep himself occupied so his mind wouldn’t wonder. But even manual labor could not rid his distasteful thoughts. Drake with his public affection, and pathetic advances was alone with HIS woman. What pissed him off the most was that Drake had freedoms toward Nicki that he did not, in being her best friend. He wasn’t in a position to make passes at her, talk about her body, and tell her that he wanted her and have it be all fun and games. Being her best friend was a blessing, but also his downfall. Gripping the horrid checkered dish rag he violently scrubbed every dirty surface. Nicki could not help wishing that Drake had never showed up. He usually said the same types of things to her. Things she didn’t particularly care to hear but laughed it off out of kindness. She didn’t want to hurt him.

“It’s only been a week.” She replied.

“I know but I missed you, and we never get to hang out. You’re always busy. Tomorrow maybe?” He played with his fingers, afraid of her response.

“I have rehearsals tomorrow.” Her answers were reluctant as was her tone, conflict heavy on her mind. How coincidental that he was in town to do a show at the same venue, but a day after hers. That set up couldn’t have been more wrong.

“Not all day though right? Tomorrow night?”

“I don’t know.” She sighed. He knew she was in a tough position, but yearned to spend time. He slid closer, holding her arms, and placing his forehead on hers, his eyes closing.

“Please.” He whispered. She knew he would not give up until she agreed, and this contact was not unpleasant. She was defeated. Sliding her arms from his grip, she stood up. The moon was now hidden behind the thin clouds and misty sky. The room was nearly pitch black.

“Fine. We can hang out for a little while.” She was sure to emphasize “Little”

“Yes!” He jumped up.

“Now goodbye, I’m tired.” She lied. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“I’m gone baby that’s all I needed to hear.” Pulling her into an embrace, he took in her scent. She smelled amazing and he could keep this with him until their “date” Walking out of her room he looked at SB, who did not look happy in the slightest. But he just got the best news of his life, and refused to be phased. He said “Sweet dreams” to Nicki and with a smug smile he was out the door. She stood silently by the door, her back to SB, contemplating. She was disappointed with her epiphany. That interlude gave her too much thinking time. Was she really ready to take the next step with Safaree? Prepared to replace the “Best Friend” title with boyfriend, to make that change, risking everything they currently are and the possibility of things never being the same. She was in love with him, and wanted to be with him always. And that was enough to keep her from making a possible mistake. Now relieved at Drake’s departure SB sat up.

“You okay babe…I mean Nic.” He slipped up. Babe. That word meant so much. And him saying that made her already conflicting decisions worse. She said nothing. Now worried SB lumbered over to her, placing a hand on her shoulder. Her eyes closed, in pain.

“Nic?” He asked concern heavy in his voice. He spun her around, lifting her chin so he could see her face, and frowned at her glassy eyes. He reached out to hug her, but she stopped him, pushing him lightly with her little hand. Hiding her face she whispered “I’ll see you in the morning okay?” and walked off never waiting for his answer.

“Wait!” SB called after her, confused. What the hell did Drake say to her? She wasn’t like this before, it had to have been him. Anger suddenly raged through every part of him, followed by rejection. He sat down at the cherry wood dining table to bare this burden stoically. His face crumpled in pain. Her tears spilled over as she left him behind, shutting herself off in her room.  Sobs began to rise in her chest, as she slid down the door, wrapping her arms around her legs. Her love for him has brewed so much happiness, but now made her heart ache. 

~TBC~