Two
Jasmine
Saturday evening comes around quickly. I’ve spent the week being productive. I’ve managed to get Austen into a school to start in September, and he’s excited about staying in Chester. On Wednesday, I took him out for lunch and plucked up the courage to tell him that we were staying. I’ve also been actively looking for work, although there aren’t many options at the moment, unless I want to work in McDonald’s.
I’ve made a decision to not go to the police. I’ve realised that I can’t spend my whole life worried that something may happen. Being constantly afraid and paranoid is not a way to live; it’s a way to slowly die. I’ve decided to just try and forget about it. Well, at least during the day, I have.
I spent two hours shopping today, trying to find the perfect outfit for this evening. Eventually, I went with black leggings, which hug my curves, a red strappy top, that shows off my pert breasts and red heels with a black strap. I’ve left my auburn hair down, straightening it to within an inch of its life. I spent time making sure my makeup is perfect, smoky black eye shadow, thick black lashes and soft pink lips. Looking in the full-length mirror, I do a mini twirl before leaving the bedroom. Heading in to say goodnight to Austen, I read him a short story before kissing his sleepy face.
The taxi pulls up outside the house and I say goodbye to my parents before making my way to JD Wetherspoon. Stepping inside the crowded bar, I look around at all the unfamiliar faces. I feel slightly intimidated being in a place surrounded by people I don’t know. I breathe a sigh of relief when I spot Piper stood at the bar, chatting to a bartender. She has her blonde hair tied up into a neat bun, she’s wearing dark blue jeans and a black crop top which shows off her slender midriff, she finishes her outfit with some black strappy wedges. She looks as stunning as she ever did and she has a figure to die for. The bartender is definitely chatting her up, his gaze is all over her, checking her out. As I walk up he glances my way, then continues to stare at Piper. Tapping her on the shoulder, she spins around.
“Jazz, you made it,” she says, as she pulls me in for a tight hug. It feels so natural, as if we haven’t been estranged for so long.
“I wouldn’t let you down,” I state. “What are you drinking?”
“Vodka and Red Bull. I’ll get them, what do you want?”
“I’ll have the same, thanks.” I give her a warm smile as she turns back around to face her admirer. He goes off to get the drinks and she pays him on his return. He pouts when we leave to find a seat. We take a seat near to the window and I glance outside at all the people walking past, ready for their night out.
“What have you been up to, how come you’ve moved home?” Piper asks, as soon as we sit down.
“It’s a long story, but I needed to get away. It wasn’t something I planned but now I’m here I’m happier with the decision. I just need to find myself a job and get settled. ” I realise after I’ve said it, that I’m surprisingly happy with my decision. I love being around my parents and Austen loves the attention.
“I’m sure you’ll find something soon. What type of thing are you looking for?”
“I dunno really, possibly bar work or waitressing as that’s what I’m used to, but I’ll take anything if the mone y’ s right.” I don’t want to ask her outright about the possibility of a job at her company. I haven’t seen her for so long, it would be cheeky of me. I take a sip of my drink, glancing around at my surroundings. I like the feel of the Wetherspoon branches, there’s no music so it’s easier to hear what people are saying to you, the only downside is that it sounds like a swarm of bees when everyone is chatting at once. “So, what have you been up to? Are you seeing anyone?”
“Nope, I’m free and single at the moment. To be honest, as soon as men find out what I do