She Denies Him

Despite the buzz of the tequila, Laurie hesitated. 'Is this wise?', she wondered. She felt Dan begin to steer her away from the group, and a flush of clarity came through her. She needed an excuse. "Oh, sorry Dan, I just need to say thank you to some of the lecturers!" Laurie pulled away, making for the bar where a few of the teaching staff stood nursing lagers. Dan watched her as she squeezed in between them.

"Hey guys! Thank you so much for your help this year. Let me get you something." She turned to the bar and ordered a round of cocktails. The men were junior staff at the college, and were pleasantly surprised by Laurie's appearance. They were a nerdy trio, and were happy to buy Laurie a few more drinks in return. She smiled and nodded as they talked about the course and whatever films they'd seen, while Laurie tried to think of how to resolve the Dan Situation.

Laurie didn't know how she thought about Dan, but she desperately wanted to find out what he felt. She quaffed down cosmopolitans and daiquiris, Dutch Courage filling her heart. It was time for to get truth.

The assistant-lecturers were arguing about some cartoon or other when she interrupted. "Sorry guys, I just need to speak with someone" . She hugged each in turn, ignoring the slightly-too-long and slightly-too-tight squeeze each one gave her. Then she turned, and looked for Dan. She saw him almost immediately.

Dan was in the far corner of the room, a petite blonde wrapped around him. Laurie felt her stomach sink, watching their kiss. She stood and stared, completely stunned. The rest of the party faded into the background, as she watched Dan fondling the girl.

"Laurie? Are you OK?" It was the voice of the men beside her that snapped her back to reality. She turned slowly towards them, her mind a blur. The nearest put his hand on her shoulder. "Too much to drink?"

She paused a second longer. "No." Laurie **** out a laugh. "Not enough if anything. I fancy sambuca. Will you guys drink sambuca? Barman - four sambucas please!"

Laurie knocked back the liquor as soon as it was put in front of her. The only thing she wanted to do was forget how she felt. Sagging on the counter, she spoke again "Sorry to cut you off just now - what was it you were explaining? My friend is gone home already."