Chapter 3

As expected, Zach reached out to me.

I had no idea how he got my number, but when he called, I acted flustered.

I asked, “Does Jess know you’re asking to meet me?”

He hesitated for a moment before responding, “How could she possibly know? I didn't expect such a sultry beauty like you to ask such a… disappointing question.”

I let out a sweet, gentle laugh.

He asked, “So, do you want to meet up?”

Without hesitation, I replied, “Of course. I’d love to. Just the two of us.”

He laughed heartily and set the time and place.

Tomorrow night, 10 PM at The Clock Tavern.

Honestly, I was surprised he didn’t suggest a hotel. But I didn’t mind. Once the clothes come off, everyone looks the same anyway. The fun is in the flirtation before that.

I arrived on time, dressed in a loose t-shirt and shorts.

He looked shocked as I casually took a seat.

Raising his glass, he smirked, “You’re… different.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” I replied, mimicking his motion and raising my glass. “Thanks for the drink and the flattery.”

Zach was a master of flirtation, taking his time—sometimes making me laugh with stories from work, sometimes switching to topics more suited for adults.

I raised my glass again, “Who would’ve thought a doctor could tell raunchy jokes better than the average guy?”

He downed his drink in one gulp. “What can I say? I’m only human. I need an outlet too. At least I’m not as bad as some who are… less than human.”

My curiosity piqued. “Less than human? Do you mean they’re hiring escorts, or… worse?”

He shook his head playfully, “Much worse.”

I pouted, pretending to be annoyed. “You’re so annoying, leaving me curious like that.”

He laughed heartily, “Do you really want to know?”

I nodded eagerly, giving him my best innocent look.

“Alright, you win. But you have to promise not to tell anyone.”

He leaned in close, putting an arm around me, his fingers brushing the hair behind my ear. In a low voice, he whispered, “Some people… have violent tendencies. They like to abuse children.”

I swallowed hard, trying to suppress the ache rising in my chest. “Really? That’s… sick.”

Zach chuckled, tapping my cheek affectionately. “You scaredy-cat. Don’t worry, I’m not that kind of man.”

“I like mature women. But playing innocent… that’s even better.”

His fingers trailed down to my lips. I stared at them for a few seconds, then gently licked the tip of his finger with my tongue.

I could feel his gaze ignite with desire.

If we weren’t sitting in the middle of the tavern, I wondered if he’d have taken me right there.