Control

6

“Who is he?” Kylie asked.

“Shots!” Cole interrupted, slamming a tray of 12 shots down on the table.

Everyone grabbed one.

“3, 2, 1!” Mia shouted. They all necked their shots then picked up another and necked it again.

“Last one!” Cole insisted, handing round the last 4.

“Sorry to interrupt the party,” came a smooth voice from behind them. “But I need a word with my brother.” It was Walshy.

“Sure,” Jimmy said, necking his shot and getting up. Walshy winked at Kylie and then him and Jimmy walked over to the bar and started talking. Kylie watched them. Did Walshy know about her and Jimmy? She shook her head. He couldn’t know, he wouldn’t be so calm if he did. Walshy and Jimmy were now laughing together at the bar so Kylie relaxed.

“Let’s dance!” Mia shouted, grabbing Kylie and Cole’s hands and pulling them to the dance floor. The music was booming, the disco lights were flashing, there were people everywhere dancing and having fun. Kylie laughed and danced with her friends. It wasn’t that bad being back after all. She felt drunk and happy, as she closed her eyes and moved to the music. Then there was a loud bang. Kylie opened her eyes to see Mia sprawled on the floor, laughing.

“I don’t think you needed them shots,” Kylie laughed, going over to grab Mia’a arm and pull her up, but wobbling herself and nearly falling over. Strong, tanned arms reached out and caught her just in time.

“Maybe you didn’t need them shots either.” A smooth, charming, unfamiliar voice said. Kylie looked up to see the gorgeous man she had seen looking at her before.

“I can handle it.” She said, cheekily, smiling at the man. He smiled back, showing bright white teeth.

“Well in that case, let me get you another drink then.” He said, taking Mia’s hand and pulling her up off the floor, but keeping his eyes on Kylie. Her heart was beating fast, she felt excited. This man was so good looking!

“Go on then.” Kylie said. “We are celebrating after all.”

“Woo!” Mia giggled.

“What’s the occasion?” The man asked, waving at the waiter to bring them drinks.

“I’ve been away for a month, and now I’m back.” Kylie said.

“And what made you come back?” The man said, staring deep into Kylie’s eyes.

“The weather.” She said, winking at him. He laughed and handed her the drink that had just arrived. He slowly looked her up and down, his eyes coming back up to stare into hers again. Kylie’s body was tingling - what was this man doing to her with his stare? She felt so turned on by him.

“I’m James, by the way.” He said, smiling. “James Ford.”

“Kylie Bentley.” Kylie replied, smiling back.

A dark haired guy with a beard pushed through the crowd to get to them. “Alright James mate, the guys here now if you wanna speak to him.”

James Ford nodded, then looked back at Kylie.

“See you around then, Kylie Bentley.” He said, winking at her.