‹ Prequel: You Look Pretty Low
Sequel: You Spurn My Natural Emotions ›
Status: Complete.
You Leave Me Breathless
Charm
[Peyton]
A few days passed since my birthday, and it was now the first week of August, a Thursday. Trinity and I have been working non-stop, but tonight is my shift off, so I can’t wait just to relax and have a film night. And lots of junk food. I didn’t even get up till midday today, meaning when I eventually trudged my way into the kitchen, Trinity was dressed and eating lunch.
“Your phone has rung fucking three times. I ignored it the first two, but answered it the third,” Trinity announced through a mouthful of baguette
“What?! Who was it!” I yelped
“Mikey’s buddy, Frank. I told him you’d call him back when you bloody woke up,” Trinity shrugged
“Frank rang? Why didn’t you fucking wake me up?!” I shrieked, grabbing my phone off the kitchen counter
Trinity just cackled as I ran into my room, furiously dialling Frank’s number. He picked up on the second ring.
F: I thought you were ignoring me
P: Never! I was asleep!
F: Well, I wanted to ask you something
P: Shoot away!
F: Do you have any plans tonight?
P: Nope, I’m not working tonight. Why?
F: I was wondering if...if you’d like to go out to dinner with me?
My jaw dropped out of shock. Was he asking me out on a date?
F: Erm...Peyton?
P: Sorry, um, my sister was mouthing something at me. I’d love to go out to dinner tonight!
F: Great! I’ll pick you up at 8?
P: 8’s great! See you then
F: Can’t wait!
P: Bye!
As soon as I ended the call, I squealed, jumping up and down on my bed. Trinity poked her head round my doorway, bursting into laughter.
“What did Frankiekins want?” she mused
“He asked me out to dinner!” I said happily
“You’re not going to fecking date him, are you?” Trinity frowned instantly
I frowned at her back, my high dropping.
“Why not?” I pouted
“Do you not remember the Skankskarth debacle? Frank is just like Alex,” Trinity pointed out
“No he’s not! Frank is more mature, more passionate...”
“More of a player,” Trinity interrupted
“No he isn’t!” I defended, a lump rising in my throat
“Fine, suit your-fucking-self. Believe what you want. I’ve googled him, and so have you - don’t say I didn’t warn you,” Trinity muttered, throwing her hands up in the air
As she left my room, I slumped down on my bed. Trinity couldn’t be right, could she? I like Frank, I really do. But I definitely don’t want anything too serious. I don’t think he does, either. Maybe I’ll just have to talk to him. Yeah, be direct. I’ll talk to him.
With a nod of my head, I walked over to my wardrobe and began looking for possible outfits for tonight, casting all of Trinity’s words aside.
*
[Trinity]
As Peyton started to get ready for her date, the nagging feeling I had about Frank grew. I needed to talk to someone. I needed to talk to Lindsey. Subtly I walked to my room and shut the door, picking up my phone.
T: Linds?
L: Yeah Trinity?
T: I need to talk to you. Like, fucking urgently. Do you know the bar, The Blue Lagoon?
L: Where you work? Yeah. Why?
T: Can you meet me in the coffee shop next door as soon as possible?
L: Yeah sure. See you in 10 minutes.
T: Great, thanks.
I quickly ended the call, and slipped on my favourite black heels, glad I was already dressed for work in a low-cut white blouse and denim short shorts.
“Hey Pey, I’ve got to go into work a bit early. See you later!” I called, heading to the front door
“I’ll text you if I’m not coming home!” she called back
I sighed, shutting the door on my way out. I quickly walked to the coffee shop where I was meeting Lindsey, glad for the warm August weather. I walked inside, not seeing Lindsey, and went up to the counter, ordering a tall latte. Then I felt a hand on my arm, and I turned my head, smiling when I saw Lindsey.
“I’ll have one of those too,” she called to the guy doing my drink
He nodded, so I turned my attention back to Lindsey.
“Thank you so much for coming. I’m so sorry for calling you randomly like this,” I apologised
“Don’t worry about it. You sounded worried - what’s up?” she asked softly
“Frank asked Peyton on a date,” I sighed
“What’s wrong with that?” Lindsey frowned
“I don’t fucking know! I’ve just got this bad feeling about him! Sorry, I know he’s your friend and all, I guess I’m just protective of my little sister, especially after her last asswipe of a boyfriend. Is there any reason why I shouldn’t like my sister around Frank?” I rambled
Before she could answer, the cashier placed our lattes in front of us. I quickly paid, ushering Lindsey into a secluded corner.
“Well?” I prompted, getting comfy
“Frank is a nice guy, honestly. He does have a bit of history with a lot of women, but I don’t think he treats any of them badly. I think Peyton will be fine. Unless she falls hook, line and sinker for his charm,” Lindsey said warmly
“His charm?” I asked dubiously
“He’s part Italian, so he’s got this kind of charm about him that makes women fall in love instantly. Apparently it’s the way he’s always been,” Lindsey giggled
“Then Peyton will fall ass over tits for him,” I groaned
“Hey, don’t worry about it. Peyton seems like a girl who’s got her head screwed on straight,” Lindsey pointed out
“Yeah, I guess she had to learn pretty harshly when we were 18. I should trust her really, shouldn’t I?” I sighed, taking a sip of my latte
“Yeah, you should. Frank’s a good guy, I promise,” Lindsey reassured
“I’ll take your word for it,” I chuckled, running a hand through my blonde side-fringe, having tied the rest of it back into a ponytail
Lindsey and I sat in a comfortable silence for a little while, just enjoying our coffees, until Lindsey got a mischievous sparkle in her eyes.
“What time does your shift start?” she asked innocently
“Not for another half an hour...why?” I asked, confused
“Good. You can fill me in on what’s happening between you and Mikey,” Lindsey smirked
“What do you mean?” I frowned
“I know the two of you have been texting a lot in the last four days...fill me in! I want the gossip! Mikey shuts up like a clam whenever Gerard and I interrogate,” Lindsey sang
“It’s nothing really. We’re just getting to know each other. I don’t want any sort of relationship. Guys aren’t fucking worth it,” I said firmly
Lindsey’s face crumpled and I sighed, knowing that probably wasn’t the best thing to say.
“Look, Mikey’s a really sweet guy, but I don’t do relationships. The only relationships I’ve ever had have ended up with me getting too attached and too hurt,” I muttered
“Mikey’s not like most guys,” Lindsey said plainly
“I know he isn’t. He’s the most innocent guy I’ve ever met. I corrupt guys like him...but I don’t think he’s ready to be corrupted,” I admitted
“You corrupt guys like Mikey?” Lindsey snickered
“Bad habit, I guess,” I laughed, blushing slightly
“Well I think you should give Mikey a chance. You might be good for each other,” Lindsey smiled softly
“I don’t know,” I sighed
“Just think about it, okay?” Lindsey pleaded
I stared at her for a few seconds. By the sheer fact that she cared so much about Mikey, it made me wonder what it would be like to care that much. I gulped – that would be a lot of commitment. Something I’m not good at. Nope. No I’m fuckking not.
“I’ll think,” was all I could reply
“Good. He does talk about you, y’know. A lot,” Lindsey smirked
“Really?” I answered too quickly, making Lindsey chuckle
“Mmhmm...just this morning he said...”
*
[Peyton]
“I’ll be back in a couple of minute to take your food orders. Your drinks should be here soon,”
The waiter walked away, leaving me smiling at Frank. This restaurant was amazing. I felt a bit dressed down in my purple gingham dress, black cardigan and black pumps, but Frank insisted I looked great. Well I mean, I know I look great, but it’s not really fancy enough. Oh well.
“Any idea what you’d like?” Frank asked with a soft smile, looking up from his menu
“Oh, um...”
I looked down at my menu, my eyes scanning quickly.
“The ricotta and spinach cannelloni looks good,” I smiled
“Are you vegetarian too?” Frank asked excitedly
“Unfortunately no. The only meat I eat is chicken though. Just don’t like anything else,” I shrugged
“Fair enough,” Frank chuckled
I looked over the rest of the menu, quite happy with my choice of ricotta and spinach cannelloni. Then Frank took my hand in his where I was resting it on the table, making me smile as he ran his thumb over my knuckles.
“You are so beautiful,” he murmured, gazing into my eyes
I couldn’t help but blush. He is definitely charming.
“I want to be honest with you, Frank,” I said softly
“I knew it – you’re married with a couple of kids, aren’t you?” Frank said dramatically
“No!” I giggled
“Good, I’m glad you’ve got no other ties,” Frank said with a devilish grin
Again, I blushed. What was this effect he’s having on me?!
“I just want to classify what’s going on. I mean, you’re an amazing guy and all, but I’m not sure if I want a relationship at this time in my life. Don’t really have a good history of relationships,” I admitted
“Hey, it’s okay. I don’t mind not being in an official relationship. Let’s call it...an open relationship. I like you, Peyton, but I respect your wishes. I don’t really want you seeing other guys too, but I guess I can’t stop that. As long as I can see your amazing body writhing beneath mine, I don’t mind,” Frank said smoothly
“Well aren’t you a charmer!” I laughed
“Runs in the blood,” Frank winked
“Thanks for understanding,” I smiled
“Any time, doll,” Frank smirked
Then the waiter came back over with our drinks – two glasses of house red wine.
“Are you ready to order?” the waiter asked politely
“Yeah. Spinach and ricotta cannelloni for my beautiful companion, and mushroom ravioli for myself,” Frank nodded, giving my hand a squeeze
“Excellent choices,” the waiter smiled, nodding his head before walking away
“So, Miss Peyton Hayes, tell me about yourself. I want to know everything,” Frank smiled, looking directly into my eyes
“Oh, there’s not much to know really. I’m not that interesting,” I blushed
I’m getting sick of this fucking blushing, I swear. I just can’t help it.
“That I find very heard to believe,” Frank smirked, lifting my hand to his lips, kissing it gently
“Where should I start?” I laughed
“Wherever you want,” Frank grinned, his lip ring glinting in the candlelight
As I started talking, I felt myself falling into the familiar pit of half-lust, half-affection. All I can hope is that what Trinity said about him earlier isn’t true. I can’t face another heartbreak.
A few days passed since my birthday, and it was now the first week of August, a Thursday. Trinity and I have been working non-stop, but tonight is my shift off, so I can’t wait just to relax and have a film night. And lots of junk food. I didn’t even get up till midday today, meaning when I eventually trudged my way into the kitchen, Trinity was dressed and eating lunch.
“Your phone has rung fucking three times. I ignored it the first two, but answered it the third,” Trinity announced through a mouthful of baguette
“What?! Who was it!” I yelped
“Mikey’s buddy, Frank. I told him you’d call him back when you bloody woke up,” Trinity shrugged
“Frank rang? Why didn’t you fucking wake me up?!” I shrieked, grabbing my phone off the kitchen counter
Trinity just cackled as I ran into my room, furiously dialling Frank’s number. He picked up on the second ring.
F: I thought you were ignoring me
P: Never! I was asleep!
F: Well, I wanted to ask you something
P: Shoot away!
F: Do you have any plans tonight?
P: Nope, I’m not working tonight. Why?
F: I was wondering if...if you’d like to go out to dinner with me?
My jaw dropped out of shock. Was he asking me out on a date?
F: Erm...Peyton?
P: Sorry, um, my sister was mouthing something at me. I’d love to go out to dinner tonight!
F: Great! I’ll pick you up at 8?
P: 8’s great! See you then
F: Can’t wait!
P: Bye!
As soon as I ended the call, I squealed, jumping up and down on my bed. Trinity poked her head round my doorway, bursting into laughter.
“What did Frankiekins want?” she mused
“He asked me out to dinner!” I said happily
“You’re not going to fecking date him, are you?” Trinity frowned instantly
I frowned at her back, my high dropping.
“Why not?” I pouted
“Do you not remember the Skankskarth debacle? Frank is just like Alex,” Trinity pointed out
“No he’s not! Frank is more mature, more passionate...”
“More of a player,” Trinity interrupted
“No he isn’t!” I defended, a lump rising in my throat
“Fine, suit your-fucking-self. Believe what you want. I’ve googled him, and so have you - don’t say I didn’t warn you,” Trinity muttered, throwing her hands up in the air
As she left my room, I slumped down on my bed. Trinity couldn’t be right, could she? I like Frank, I really do. But I definitely don’t want anything too serious. I don’t think he does, either. Maybe I’ll just have to talk to him. Yeah, be direct. I’ll talk to him.
With a nod of my head, I walked over to my wardrobe and began looking for possible outfits for tonight, casting all of Trinity’s words aside.
*
[Trinity]
As Peyton started to get ready for her date, the nagging feeling I had about Frank grew. I needed to talk to someone. I needed to talk to Lindsey. Subtly I walked to my room and shut the door, picking up my phone.
T: Linds?
L: Yeah Trinity?
T: I need to talk to you. Like, fucking urgently. Do you know the bar, The Blue Lagoon?
L: Where you work? Yeah. Why?
T: Can you meet me in the coffee shop next door as soon as possible?
L: Yeah sure. See you in 10 minutes.
T: Great, thanks.
I quickly ended the call, and slipped on my favourite black heels, glad I was already dressed for work in a low-cut white blouse and denim short shorts.
“Hey Pey, I’ve got to go into work a bit early. See you later!” I called, heading to the front door
“I’ll text you if I’m not coming home!” she called back
I sighed, shutting the door on my way out. I quickly walked to the coffee shop where I was meeting Lindsey, glad for the warm August weather. I walked inside, not seeing Lindsey, and went up to the counter, ordering a tall latte. Then I felt a hand on my arm, and I turned my head, smiling when I saw Lindsey.
“I’ll have one of those too,” she called to the guy doing my drink
He nodded, so I turned my attention back to Lindsey.
“Thank you so much for coming. I’m so sorry for calling you randomly like this,” I apologised
“Don’t worry about it. You sounded worried - what’s up?” she asked softly
“Frank asked Peyton on a date,” I sighed
“What’s wrong with that?” Lindsey frowned
“I don’t fucking know! I’ve just got this bad feeling about him! Sorry, I know he’s your friend and all, I guess I’m just protective of my little sister, especially after her last asswipe of a boyfriend. Is there any reason why I shouldn’t like my sister around Frank?” I rambled
Before she could answer, the cashier placed our lattes in front of us. I quickly paid, ushering Lindsey into a secluded corner.
“Well?” I prompted, getting comfy
“Frank is a nice guy, honestly. He does have a bit of history with a lot of women, but I don’t think he treats any of them badly. I think Peyton will be fine. Unless she falls hook, line and sinker for his charm,” Lindsey said warmly
“His charm?” I asked dubiously
“He’s part Italian, so he’s got this kind of charm about him that makes women fall in love instantly. Apparently it’s the way he’s always been,” Lindsey giggled
“Then Peyton will fall ass over tits for him,” I groaned
“Hey, don’t worry about it. Peyton seems like a girl who’s got her head screwed on straight,” Lindsey pointed out
“Yeah, I guess she had to learn pretty harshly when we were 18. I should trust her really, shouldn’t I?” I sighed, taking a sip of my latte
“Yeah, you should. Frank’s a good guy, I promise,” Lindsey reassured
“I’ll take your word for it,” I chuckled, running a hand through my blonde side-fringe, having tied the rest of it back into a ponytail
Lindsey and I sat in a comfortable silence for a little while, just enjoying our coffees, until Lindsey got a mischievous sparkle in her eyes.
“What time does your shift start?” she asked innocently
“Not for another half an hour...why?” I asked, confused
“Good. You can fill me in on what’s happening between you and Mikey,” Lindsey smirked
“What do you mean?” I frowned
“I know the two of you have been texting a lot in the last four days...fill me in! I want the gossip! Mikey shuts up like a clam whenever Gerard and I interrogate,” Lindsey sang
“It’s nothing really. We’re just getting to know each other. I don’t want any sort of relationship. Guys aren’t fucking worth it,” I said firmly
Lindsey’s face crumpled and I sighed, knowing that probably wasn’t the best thing to say.
“Look, Mikey’s a really sweet guy, but I don’t do relationships. The only relationships I’ve ever had have ended up with me getting too attached and too hurt,” I muttered
“Mikey’s not like most guys,” Lindsey said plainly
“I know he isn’t. He’s the most innocent guy I’ve ever met. I corrupt guys like him...but I don’t think he’s ready to be corrupted,” I admitted
“You corrupt guys like Mikey?” Lindsey snickered
“Bad habit, I guess,” I laughed, blushing slightly
“Well I think you should give Mikey a chance. You might be good for each other,” Lindsey smiled softly
“I don’t know,” I sighed
“Just think about it, okay?” Lindsey pleaded
I stared at her for a few seconds. By the sheer fact that she cared so much about Mikey, it made me wonder what it would be like to care that much. I gulped – that would be a lot of commitment. Something I’m not good at. Nope. No I’m fuckking not.
“I’ll think,” was all I could reply
“Good. He does talk about you, y’know. A lot,” Lindsey smirked
“Really?” I answered too quickly, making Lindsey chuckle
“Mmhmm...just this morning he said...”
*
[Peyton]
“I’ll be back in a couple of minute to take your food orders. Your drinks should be here soon,”
The waiter walked away, leaving me smiling at Frank. This restaurant was amazing. I felt a bit dressed down in my purple gingham dress, black cardigan and black pumps, but Frank insisted I looked great. Well I mean, I know I look great, but it’s not really fancy enough. Oh well.
“Any idea what you’d like?” Frank asked with a soft smile, looking up from his menu
“Oh, um...”
I looked down at my menu, my eyes scanning quickly.
“The ricotta and spinach cannelloni looks good,” I smiled
“Are you vegetarian too?” Frank asked excitedly
“Unfortunately no. The only meat I eat is chicken though. Just don’t like anything else,” I shrugged
“Fair enough,” Frank chuckled
I looked over the rest of the menu, quite happy with my choice of ricotta and spinach cannelloni. Then Frank took my hand in his where I was resting it on the table, making me smile as he ran his thumb over my knuckles.
“You are so beautiful,” he murmured, gazing into my eyes
I couldn’t help but blush. He is definitely charming.
“I want to be honest with you, Frank,” I said softly
“I knew it – you’re married with a couple of kids, aren’t you?” Frank said dramatically
“No!” I giggled
“Good, I’m glad you’ve got no other ties,” Frank said with a devilish grin
Again, I blushed. What was this effect he’s having on me?!
“I just want to classify what’s going on. I mean, you’re an amazing guy and all, but I’m not sure if I want a relationship at this time in my life. Don’t really have a good history of relationships,” I admitted
“Hey, it’s okay. I don’t mind not being in an official relationship. Let’s call it...an open relationship. I like you, Peyton, but I respect your wishes. I don’t really want you seeing other guys too, but I guess I can’t stop that. As long as I can see your amazing body writhing beneath mine, I don’t mind,” Frank said smoothly
“Well aren’t you a charmer!” I laughed
“Runs in the blood,” Frank winked
“Thanks for understanding,” I smiled
“Any time, doll,” Frank smirked
Then the waiter came back over with our drinks – two glasses of house red wine.
“Are you ready to order?” the waiter asked politely
“Yeah. Spinach and ricotta cannelloni for my beautiful companion, and mushroom ravioli for myself,” Frank nodded, giving my hand a squeeze
“Excellent choices,” the waiter smiled, nodding his head before walking away
“So, Miss Peyton Hayes, tell me about yourself. I want to know everything,” Frank smiled, looking directly into my eyes
“Oh, there’s not much to know really. I’m not that interesting,” I blushed
I’m getting sick of this fucking blushing, I swear. I just can’t help it.
“That I find very heard to believe,” Frank smirked, lifting my hand to his lips, kissing it gently
“Where should I start?” I laughed
“Wherever you want,” Frank grinned, his lip ring glinting in the candlelight
As I started talking, I felt myself falling into the familiar pit of half-lust, half-affection. All I can hope is that what Trinity said about him earlier isn’t true. I can’t face another heartbreak.