Chapter Two

Friday, June 12th

SYDNEY

The mid-morning heat was climbing. The sun shining and not a cloud in sight. The city of New York alive, the people of the city going about their day just as I had been. I sat in a quaint coffee shop, reading one of my favorite books, 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings', minding my own business. Enjoying the poetic way the words Maya Angelou described her childhood and the torment that she experienced at such a young age.

Engrossed in the words that have captured and enthralled me time and time again, I barely even heard the man that had so boldly took the seat across from me. "I couldn't help but notice that you're sitting here alone." I glanced up at him feeling annoyed.

He was dressed in a black pinstriped business suit, with short blonde perfectly combed hair, brown eyes, and fair skin. He spoke with an arrogance and fake confidence that spoke volumes about him, I knew instantly that he was the type of man that would demand control in the things that he possessed, even people, mostly women.

Not even bothering to look in his direction. I replied, "How very observant of you." Disinterest evident in my voice. As I attempted to continue to read my book.

"I'm just simply stating a fact." He said with a smugness that made me want to throw my scorching hot coffee at him. I didn't of course. I have more restraint than that.

"So, you have." I deadpanned.

"I just thought that you might want some company." He said, clearly ignoring my dismissal of him. There was a time in my life that I dated men like him; now I could spot them a mile away. I knew it would take a clearer rejection for him to leave me alone.

I set my book down on the table and looked him directly in the eyes, "Well, I'm perfectly fine with being alone. Thanks for the offer, but I'm good. Bye." I picked up my book and started reading it again.

"Very well then." He replied as he got up from the chair, I waved him off, dismissing him once again. Now that that was over, I could get back to being captivated by the poetically written words. My relief was short lived, I could feel a presence hovering above me.

"Excuse the intrusion, but I was hoping that you might consider doing me the honor of going on a date with me." I glanced at the man hovering over me, hmm…at least this one seemed nicer. Dressed in a grey business suit, dark brown hair, a light stubble of facial hair.

He wasn't bad looking, just not my type. It didn't help him that, had I not been so annoyed by the previous guy, I might have said yes, but then it dawned on me, this seemed like some sort of bet or some type of challenge that men seem to do. "I'm sorry, but I can't. I have plans."

"But I didn't even tell you what day." He said, with a look of confusion on his face.

"Like I said, I have plans. Thanks though. Have a nice day." I smiled at him and then waved him off. I was not going to let either one of them have the satisfaction of winning.

I took a drink of my coffee and continued to read. I didn't even get to the end of reading the sentence when I heard a man clear his throat as he stood across from me, in an attempt to get my attention. Feeling more than annoyed, I put my book in my purse and grabbed my coffee and walked out of the coffee shop without saying another word.

I know I might seem like a bitch, but I am not going to be some guys conquest. I have more self-respect than that. Deciding that I needed to let out some aggression, I opted going to the gym. I walked the four blocks to my apartment to retrieve my gym bag.

Once I was safely in the confines of my apartment, I went into my bathroom to fix my hair, putting it in a ponytail. I hastily packed my bag, choosing my white and black spandex pants and my white polyester tank top, making sure to throw in my white Nike air max shoes and another outfit for after the gym. I double checked to see if I had my Air Pods and phone, along with my charger, just in case.

I arrived at the gym at around 1:34 pm. Still feeling a little irritated as I remembered the events at the coffee shop. It completely irked me how some men viewed women, as if we were some sort of plaything, to do with what and when they pleased and to throw them away as if we meant nothing. As if we were less than human.

I'm not naïve to think that some women don't do the exact same thing as men, I find the act of such a thing utterly revolting no matter who is doing it. I just prefer the people I associate with to be sincere and genuinely caring. And if that made me seem like a bitch, then so be it. I would gladly take that title, especially with people who wanted to treat me with such disrespect.

Pushing those negative thoughts aside. Waiting in line at the front desk to check myself in. Once I was done I went into the women's locker room. I slipped on my shoes, and stood up from the bench, fully dressed. I put my things in the locker and made my way to the equipment room.

I opened the glass door, I surveyed and located the treadmills that were on the other side of the spacious room. I grabbed a towel that were provided, located on a shelf to my right as soon as you enter.

I put in my earbuds and turned on some music. I turned on the treadmill, setting it to my designated speed. Looking straight ahead, was a huge glass window that ran the length of the wall, looking down I could see the indoor swimming pool. I focused on the window looking passed the pool where another large window was located.

Before I knew it, the cool down period of the treadmill was taking over. I walked the last ten minutes. Normally I would let that be the end of my workout, but I didn't feel like leaving just yet. I decided that it's been a while since I did some actual lifting and I needed to work on my legs and arms.

In my search of a machine, I wasn't paying any attention, I collided into a hard body. As I am about to apologize, I look up and I'm met with most piercingly beautiful honey-colored eyes I have ever seen. Attempting to take a step back in order to get a better look at the person in front of me, it was at that moment when I felt hands lightly gripping both sides of my waist.

Usually if I were in a situation like this, I would've felt uncomfortable with someone holding me in such a manner. But not this time. This time I was caught in a trance with the striking eyes before me, so compelled I wasn't able to move. She had thick short raven colored hair and an inverted triangle shaped face that seemed to soften as we both gazed into each other's eyes. Her lips flush and full, my imagination wondering what it would be like to kiss them. How would they feel against my own?

Quickly averting my gaze, I take in the gorgeous young woman's tall frame and athletic build, she wore a black sports bra, appearing to be about a 30-B, and simple black and white basketball shorts with matching Nike cross-trainers.

As my gaze continued its descent, I notice the sweat glistening off her perfectly tanned body. Her well-toned six-pack abs on full display. A V-shape with the ability to direct anyone's line of sight to the waistband of her basketball shorts. Leaving the viewer in suspense to wonder what lie beneath the fabric. I bit my lower lip, it seemed the more I tried to rid myself of these thoughts, the harder it became to banish them.

My throat went dry as I tried to find my voice. I swallowed, hoping that it wasn't that noticeable. "I'm sorry, I wasn't paying attention." I said trying to sound more confident than what I was actually feeling. In all my years, I had never felt this attracted to another person. I didn't think it was possible, it didn't matter to me that it was a younger woman. I had always tried to keep an open mind. Being in college taught many things if you catch my drift.

No, this was different. This was instantaneous, this was earth shattering, life changing. I knew it, I felt it. I am not the type to believe in love at first sight, this wasn't that either, this had another name. Was it lust at first sight? I wasn't sure. It had to have a name.

Tearing myself away from my inner thoughts. I stared into the younger woman's eyes, she furrowed her brows, she looked genuinely concerned that she might have hurt me. "No, no, it's my fault. I wasn't watching where I was going. I'm sorry. Are you alright?" She asked, then she touched my arm in an attempt to steady me and when she did, a bolt of electricity ran through my entire body, the force of it was so strong that my knees almost buckled. Somehow, I managed to keep my composure. The younger woman smiled at me, but the look of a concern crossed her beautiful features.

"Yes, I'm fine thank you. Just slightly embarrassed is all." I replied honestly.

"I'm the one that should be embarrassed. I'm so sorry." She said as she put both of her hands at her sides. I immediately missed her soft warm touch.

"Don't worry about it. I'll be fine." I said trying to wave it off.

"Ok, good. See you around. That is if we both watch where we're going." I giggled at her statement and just then she smiled a huge toothy grin that had me swooning in no time. I could feel the butterflies fluttering in the pit of my stomach trying to escape. I felt the arousal between my legs begin to awaken. I stepped aside, in order to try to avoid embarrassing myself even further and do something that would make a scene. Like jump her bones right here in front of everyone.

"Yeah, no kidding." Before I knew it, she was gone. Leaving me in a daze of confusion and arousal. It was hard for me to fathom, that someone, anyone, could leave me in such a state without even making a move or a pass at me.

I watched her as she walked over to the free weights a few yards from where I sat at a leg lift machine. The younger woman appeared to be a bigger distraction than I thought, because I would glance in her direction every chance I got. I watched as other women would try to strike up a conversation with her, she would say something polite and then continue about her weightlifting, clueless as they sashayed their hips as they walked away.

I did a few more reps and then went over to the arm curl machine. It was closer to the younger woman, I wanted her to notice me, I've never wanted anyone's attention more than I wanted hers at this precise moment. I wanted her to glance in my direction, I felt like such a coward. I couldn't bring myself to go over there and say something to her. I was trying in vain to work up the nerve to go over there.

Too caught up in my inner thoughts and mentally scolding myself, I averted my attention to the younger woman once again. To say that I was entranced by her, would be putting it mildly. By this time, the younger woman was doing arm curls. Highly aware of her, I watched as she finished. I got up from my machine and started to do some stretches, so I wouldn't strain my muscles. I bent over to stretch my legs as well, I felt the tightness in my muscles and once I was standing straight, I began to relax.

I sat back down and started on my next repetition. Keeping my focus on my arm strength, I pushed myself to the limits. I felt an unfamiliar feeling subtly make its way into the pit of my stomach. In that moment, I knew she was near. Excitement could hardly explain what I was feeling. I tried to remain calm. The younger woman adjusted the weights on the leg lift machine that I previously occupied.

I was severely impressed by the younger woman's weight setting that I couldn't help what came out of my mouth. "That's impressive. I wish I could lift that much. How long have you been working out?"

"Since I was about thirteen. So not long." The sound of her voice was like silk. Smooth and soothing to the ear. I could listen to her talk forever, if forever allowed it. She sat down, she looked at me with those blazing honey-colored eyes. I could get lost in those eyes.

I had to pull myself away from my mind drifting into flights of fantasy. I didn't want to get ahead of myself. I didn't even know anything about her. But that just cemented how much I wanted to get to know her, I decided to say something before my silence became awkward, "Such determination for someone so young."

I could see a slight flush of her cheeks, seeming to shrug it off she went on to say, "Well, to be honest, it wasn't something that I wanted to do when I was younger. It was kind of, forced on me. Not in a bad way. It's just that my dad –" She stopped, the look on her face was one of confliction.

I felt a slight disappointment, but I truly was interested in what she left unsaid. "I don't mean to pry. It's just that I'm interested, I've always found genuine people fascinating." I admitted.

"Well, first of all thanks for that." She smiled at me, which sent a little bolt of electricity to travel down to my nether regions.

"Well, it's true." I encouraged.

She took a moment to think it over, but she eventually caved to my gently nudging, "If I'm going to be honest, due to certain complications, my dad wanted me to learn how to defend myself. I actually started by learning different techniques of martial arts. Once I started to actually take it seriously, I just fell in love with it. All of it." Another smile came across her gorgeous face as she appeared to look back on it fondly.

I couldn't help the smile that made its way to mine as well, her aura was contagious, that was for certain. I didn't want our conversation to end just yet, "That's really interesting. I mean, it's wonderful that you found something that you thoroughly enjoy. I don't see that that often in younger people now days. How old are you? If you don't mind my asking." I was curious about her age since the moment we bumped into each other. I had to ask.

"I'm 18. Just turned today as a matter of fact. I'm actually going to be a senior in high school this fall." I was utterly surprised by her admission, I honestly thought she was 20 at the most. I tried to hide the shock that I felt.

"Oh wow, happy birthday." I said in kind. "Honestly, I would have guessed you were at least 19 or 20 at the most." I admitted.

"I get that a lot. I think it has to do with a person's eyes." Her eyes flickered with something I couldn't discern.

"Or maybe you're just an old soul." The words slipping from me before I realized what I said.

She nodded her head slightly as if in agreement. "Truthfully, I think it derives from the fact I had to grow up at an early age. I don't regret it or anything. I wouldn't change it for the world because it made me part of who I am." The more she talked the more enthralled I became. She didn't seem like she was 18, she spoke with such conviction and self-assurance.

"That's a good way of looking at it." I encouraged her, I wanted to say more, to keep the conversation going and then I remembered I hadn't even introduced myself. "Oh, I'm sorry. Where are my manners? My name is Sydney. Sydney Vaughn." I extended my hand.

She put her hand in mine and I felt the electricity radiating from her touch as she in turn introduced herself, "Jordan Hawkins. Nice to meet you." We shook hands for longer than was considered necessary.

"So are you doing anything special for your birthday?" My eyes quirked up in a questioning glance.

"No. My parents are busy with work." Jordan's voice came out a little bit more solemn. "Not that I mind, we made plans to celebrate this Sunday. For now, it's just me and take out for the night." She added, an attempt to lighten the mood. The thought of her being alone on her birthday pulled at my heart strings.

"Oh, well that's too bad. At least you have Sunday to look forward to."

"Yeah, I'm sure it will be great." A half smile reaching midway on her youthful face.

Sadly, it was time for me to take my leave. "Well, Jordan Hawkins, it was lovely to meet you, but I really must be going. I hope you enjoy the rest of your workout. And have a happy birthday." I got up from the machine and grabbed my towel and began to make the short journey to the locker room.

It wasn't until I got into the brightly lit locker room, that I realized that I had to use the restroom. I quickly took care of business and then as I was about to round the aisle to where my locker was located, I bumped into a hard body for the second time today. When I looked up and seen the now familiar honey-colored eyes peering at me, I couldn't help the smile that swept across my face. "We really need to stop meeting like this." Her tone was soft and sultry, it sent a shiver of delight down my spine.

It was at that moment that I realized she had one hand placed on my hip and the other bracing the small of my back. The warmth of her touch did things to my core. I felt the wetness that emanated as she continued to hold me. I couldn't help the desire that was stirring inside of me. "I could get used to this." Oh My God! I did not just say that. I couldn't believe I said that. I couldn't stop the words as they came out of my mouth. I felt the flush of my cheeks, I knew they were bright red by now.

Rather than comment on it or further embarrass me, Jordan said, "The feelings mutual." With a sly grin and a wink, she stepped around me then walked into the direction of the showers. Leaving me once again dazed and aroused by her touch and the sound of her voice.

It took a moment for me to compose myself, but once I did, I grabbed my clothes and other shower essentials, and went to the showers, but not before grabbing a towel. All the while in the shower my thoughts replayed my interactions with a certain honey eyed young woman. Something about her seemed different from the rest.

Jordan definitely had a certain allure that I couldn't quite place, but it was more than that. I had to admit there was a magnetism pulling me towards her, drawing me in by the likes of which I have never seen before or previously experienced. I needed to shake my mind of these thoughts.

I wasn't the type of person to fall victim to someone by just a look, or a sinfully beautiful smile and a wink. I also wasn't the type to be drawn in by someone who only spoke a few choice words, even if that person's voice was smooth as silk while at the same time low and husky. Sending my head into a tailspin with each word spoken or the electrical current that surged wherever she touched me.

No. That woman was definitely not me. But then again, why should I deny it? Why do I need to make sense of something so primal? So natural? I needed to get out of here, to get home as soon as possible in order to think straight. I quickly finished cleansing my body then made my way to the aisle to where my locker was located. And the sight that I walked in on made me stop in my tracks and let out a small gasp.

Jordan was standing facing away from me, she had on a pair of white slacks that she was in the middle of zipping up. She began looping a black leather belt through the waist of her slacks as she stood in just her white sports bra. The white of her clothes brought out her golden bronze tan even more.

Taking in the sight before me, the combination of her muscular shoulders, arms, and back, the epitome of sexy. More than anything I wanted to roam my hands over her muscular body, trace every indention, study it with just the touch of my fingertips. Lick as every part of her for as long as I possibly could.

I pictured us in the throes of passion, her strong arms lifting me up carrying me from the living room to the bedroom. Pinning me to the bed as she explored my body. I imagined leaving scratch marks on those muscular shoulders. The faintest of crimson would be deliciously wonderful to admire on her. I bit my lower lip just thinking about it.

I had to control my sexual desires, which I found hard to do with her so close to me. I shook off my sexual stupor and went to my locker. Asking myself when exactly had I become this sexually charged? Never. This has been the only time I ever felt like this. I put my discarded clothes into my bag, along with my body wash, shampoo and conditioner. I let my towel drop to the floor, I stood in just my yellow laced panties and matching push up bra.

Sneaking a glance at Jordan, I seeing her putting on a white tank top, sadness clutched me as she covered up her gorgeous body. I force myself to turn around and get back to getting dressed. I wiggled my hips into my black capris and put on a yellow low-cut halter top. I slipped on my black Valentino sandals, loving the way they feel and the way the diamond studs shimmered in the low light.

Zipping up my bag then hoisting it up over my shoulders, not really wanting to go. Wanting to find a reason to linger just a moment longer. I turn to leave, that's when I hear Jordan's angelic voice, "Sydney?" I turn back around. Jordan is wearing a short-sleeved button up shirt, with the shirt unbuttoned. She had on black leather loafers, looking every bit the delicious morsel.

Instead of saying something, I remained silent. "I know this is a long shot -"

She started to say and before the I could stop myself, I blurted out, "Jordan? Would you like to go on date with me?" I don't know why I asked, especially when the conversation seemed like it was already heading in that direction. Something just compelled me to ask. I also didn't like the thought of her spending her birthday alone.

Regardless of any circumstances, she seemed like she didn't deserve her parents choosing work over their daughter. But then again, who am I to judge. I suddenly became very aware of her somewhat adorable shocked expression. "I can't stand the thought of you being alone on your birthday." I mentally facepalmed myself. Now it sounded like that's the only reason I wanted to go on a date with her. As if I pitied her. Fuck! I hated myself right now.

When she didn't answer I continued, almost as if I were trying to reason with her. "Not that that's the only reason or the real reason, not in the slightest. I do want to get to know you further." I really hoped I didn't mess things up by my earlier comment. The last thing I wanted was for her to feel like I felt sorry for her. Now everything was coming out embarrassingly as I rambled.

"I can't think of any other way I would want to spend my birthday than getting to know a beautiful woman." A shiver of excitement ran through me once she agreed, and I couldn't help the slight blush once I realized she called me beautiful.

After we made arrangements for her to pick me up, feeling utterly charmed by her saying her mother wouldn't approve of her not escorting a lady to and from a date, and neither would she. Who said chivalry is dead?

By the time we departed ways I couldn't wait to get home and get ready. The only stressful thing now would be finding the perfect outfit to wear. One thing is for sure, I wanted to look my absolute best. Nothing short of perfection.