Ruby heads to the dance floor

The pulsing rhythm of the music washed over Ruby as she made her way to the dance floor, her heart pounding in time with the bass. The rush of bodies moving in sync with the beat, the neon lights flickering in hypnotic patterns, and the heat of the crowd enveloped her. She felt alive, charged with an energy she couldn’t quite explain. It wasn’t just the music or the atmosphere—it was the knowledge that Jimmy was there, somewhere close.

She wasn’t sure why she had decided to do this instead of heading straight to the restroom. Maybe it was the thrill, the dangerous line she was toeing. The idea of dancing near him, of testing her own limits, sent an undeniable rush through her veins. She moved with the music, letting her body sway, her skirt brushing against her thighs as she got lost in the rhythm.

It wasn’t long before she felt someone close behind her. At first, she thought it might just be the press of the crowd, but then she felt a pair of hands lightly graze her hips. She froze momentarily, her pulse quickening. She didn’t need to turn around to know who it was.

“Didn’t think I’d see you back here after last night,” Jimmy’s voice drawled close to her ear, low and dripping with smugness. His hands rested on her hips, his touch firm but not forceful—yet. Ruby’s mind raced, uncertainty gripping her. She didn’t push him away, though her body tensed as she tried to process what was happening.

“You’re quiet,” he continued, his tone laced with mockery. “What’s the matter? Thinking about my offer again? You know, it still stands. You and me, baby—I’ll make you forget that little boyfriend of yours in no time.”

Ruby’s breath caught as she suddenly felt his bulge press against her from behind, the hard length of him brushing firmly against her butt through her skirt. The sensation shocked her, sending a jolt through her body that left her momentarily paralyzed. She spun around, facing him, her cheeks flushed with a mix of anger, embarrassment, and something she couldn’t quite name.

Jimmy grinned, his gaze lazily scanning her from head to toe. “What’s the matter? Cat got your tongue? Don’t tell me you’re still thinking about that guy—what’s his name, anyway? Doesn’t matter. He didn’t look like he could handle a girl like you. Weak little thing, isn’t he? Probably couldn’t even throw a punch without crying about it.”

Ruby’s fists clenched at her sides, her emotions warring within her as his words cut deep. She wanted to defend Ethan, to tell Jimmy how wrong he was, but her voice seemed stuck in her throat.

Jimmy leaned in closer, his eyes narrowing slightly as he smirked. “You know, you’re a real piece of work,” he said, his tone shifting to something more suggestive. “That little skirt, those cute lips—you’re just begging for someone to show you a good time. And trust me, I’ve got all the time in the world for a girl like you.”

Ruby’s breath quickened as he leaned even closer, his face just inches from hers now. His hand brushed against her arm, a deliberate move to test her boundaries. His intentions were clear as he angled toward her, his lips drawing closer. The choice loomed before her—react, or let the moment unfold.