My Valentine
I was sitting on Shane’s lap, his strong protective arms holding me against
his body. My head was resting on his shoulder while his chin was resting on the
top of my head. We were joined by our friends, all sitting closely next to their
girlfriends and boyfriends. Us girls could only dream about this two years ago.
We couldn’t believe this was true.
“Have you two always gotten along so well?” Asked Kian
Shane thought for a while and then said “Not until Valentine’s Day two years ago.”
“We were at school together.” I explained “He was the jock and I was the geek.”
“That’s harsh.” Said Nicky
Shane laughed “If you didn’t do sports, weren’t into fashion or drove your own car, you were classified as a geek.”
“Their nicer way of calling you a loser.” I said
“I never though you were a loser. I did feel sorry for you though.”
“Whatever.” I shrugged my shoulder. I didn’t want the others to know about my life in school.
“So what changed things around?” Asked Mark
I lifted my head and looked at Shane. No one knew the whole story, the truth. Maybe tonight that would change.
“It all started when I was working at that restaurant,” Shane began “Iris was having a meal with a group of friends, which I was surprised at. She used to
wonder around the school on her own. I could hear them talking, but I didn’t know what about…”
Two years ago
I was sitting at a round table with my four friends. I was the only one whodidn’t have a full wine glass. It wasn’t like I didn’t drink, I did, it was just
still too early. They were talking about their dates for tomorrow night. Each girl having a new man escorting them to the movies. It’s funny how they always
seem to break a relationship at the same time and always manages to get someone new the next day. And yet they can’t understand why I haven’t even got one boyfriend.
“If you had a boyfriend you can join us Iris.” Said a blonde girl, Hannah.
“It’s not too late girl. Any of these men will do.” Said a brunette, Cathy.
“I know one of them over there.” Said a red head, Alison. She had nodded her head towards a group of young men in suits. One in particular looked our way and she waved. He smiled back knowingly.
I put a hand on my stomach and waited for the nausea to pass.
“And how old is he?” Asked Hannah.
Alison shrugged a shoulder “He says 19 but I say more 21, 22. Not that much difference.”
Hannah looked at me and I shook my head. She sighed heavily, clearly annoyed by me. “You don’t need to the know the man Iris.” She said “Just sleep with him.”
“Go round the back and snog him.” Said another blonde, Rosette “Go home with him, have a few drinks and go with the flow.”
Now I was really going to be sick. I ran to the bathroom, ignoring the faces that turned my way. I didn’t check what door I went through, I didn’t care if
someone was in there. I went directly to the first sink and vomited.
Once my system was clear, I wiped my face with a hand towel. I’ve been sick around this time for the last couple of days. I’ve refused to go to the doctor,
but maybe I had to. I just didn’t want to hear it. Once the words were out, there’ no hiding the truth. The door to the cubicle behind me opened and we both
stood frozen.
At the time I didn’t care, but now I could feel my cheeks go hot and I could see them turning red.
“Iris?” He asked…
Present Day
“This is the part you two meet again right?” Asked an excited Rosy
Shane laughed “If you listen and don’t interrupt, you’ll find out.”
“I thought you said you heard the girl talking?” Asked Kian, a bit confused.
“I did. I had to have a bathroom break.”
“I had to ask.”
We all laughed and I continued the story…
Two years ago
I couldn’t believe it. Bad enough I was in the men’s bathroom, now I was facing an old school… enemy?
“Shane?” I said “Shane Filan?”
“Yeah.” Said Shane
He slowly walked to the sink beside me and washed his hands. I watched him in the mirror. I still couldn’t believe it.
“What are you doing here Iris? I mean, in the men’s.”
I could feel my cheeks going hotter. “I needed the bathroom quick. Didn’t bother to check.”
“Right. Here,” he reached for his pocket and brought out some gum. “Your breath stinks. And I’m not cleaning that mess up after you.”
Shane shifted his eyes to the sink and made a face that told me he thought it was smelly. I rolled my eyes, took some gum and muttered “Thanks”. Then he left the bathroom.
Present day
“That wasn’t very nice Shane.” Said Claire “Clearly she wasn’t very well.”
“That was our relationship back then.” Explained Shane “Besides, I didn’t get paid enough to clear someone’s vomit. Or to hide that fact Iris was in the
men’s.”
I hit him playfully on the arm. I was now sitting beside him, slowly getting annoyed with the interruptions.
“Were you pregnant?” Asked Mary
I nodded “I was late and being sick everyday. At the time I was stressed, so I though I was late because I was stressed. Can happen.”
“What were your reasons for being sick?” Asked Mark
I shrugged a shoulder “I didn’t have one. It was being sick for the fifth time in a row that made me go to the doctors…”
Two years ago
“We’ll give you a call in the results are in.” Said Dr. Crystal “In the mean time, take it easy. I’ll see you soon.”
“Thank you Doctor.” I said and started to stand.
Dr. Crystal stood up to and walked me to the door. I said thanks again and left the doctors. I didn’t go very far. I sat on the wall on the opposite side.
Then I saw him again
“You again.” He said, his tone mixed with humour and annoyance. “Thought when we left school I got away from you.”
“So did I.” I said quietly, looking down the road.
He sat down next to me, our elbows just touching. I had to look at him then.
“You okay?” He asked, real concern on his face.
“I’m fine.” I said
“You got a family member or a friend in there?” I shook my head. I moved my eyes to the ground and saw a tear fall onto the pavement. “What’s wrong
Iris?”
“Nothing for you to know Shane.” I hissed at him, my watery eyes glaring at him. That was enough for me to stand and attempt to leave. But all I did was
turn round and folded my arms across my chest.
I felt his toes touching my heels and his arms appeared around mine. I wanted to get loose, but I didn’t have the energy. I allowed him to pull my body to
his, our breathing in rhythm.
“You wanna talk about it?” He asked softly. “We can talk over coffee.”
“There’s nothing to talk about.” I said
“There is. You were never the one to see the doctor. You need to talk about it. I’m sure your friends won’t listen.”
Present day
“Did you talk to him?” asked Nicky
“Yeah.” I said “Shane was right on both accounts. I needed to talk and the girls weren’t the people to talk to. They would tell everyone and anyone they
had contact with. Plus I would have to tell them who the father was and describe that night.”
“How much did you tell him?”
“Not much. I still didn’t trust him. I left a lot of blanks, telling him the story with as little detail as possible. But he listened, he heard every word.
He waited till the end before he spoke. And I was grateful.”
“What happened after that?” Asked Rosy.
“Soon after we talked I began to see her differently.” Said Shane “At school I only saw her as a lonely. Iris never seemed to have friends. That’s why I was
surprised to see her with a group of girls. With a small understanding of her background, I began to see why. I asked her out a couple of times afterwards. A little more came out every time. Then came an important dance at my family’s hotel. And I didn’t want to go alone…”
Two years ago
I was finding it hard to believe I have been out a couple of times with Shane Filan. We were slowly beginning to understand each other. Every time he asked me out, I was always slow at saying ’yes’. I was happy to go out with other people than the girls. It just wasn’t my scene going out with just one man. I felt better in a group.
Now I was starring at the text message Shane had sent me. He was asking if I would meet him in the restaurant in 10 minutes. I was in the restaurant, have been for a good 30 minutes since I got the text. I was beginning to get annoyed.
“I’m sorry Iris.” Shane said when he finally appeared “My shift finished when I sent you that text. My boss wanted me to do something extra. I’m so
sorry!”
“It’s okay.” I said “I wouldn’t be so forgiving if I was stood up.”
Shane laughed. I was growing to love his smile. “Would I do that to you?”
“Possibly. You could simply go back to the boy from school.”
“I could do. But that boy wouldn’t have asked you for your hand.”
I felt my eyes go wide. Did I just hear that correctly?
Shane laughed again “I didn’t mean it like that! What I meant was… Would you go to my parents dance with me?”
He was serious. How could I answer?
Present Day
“So how did you answer?” Asked Mary
“I simply nodded.” I said “He smiled his wonderful smile and kissed me on the forehead. His finger hovering over my lips.”
Nicky raised and eyebrow and looked questioningly at Shane.
Shane laughed “I did want to kiss her right there and then.” He said “But something stopped me. Something was telling me to wait. I got so burned up just
thinking about kissing her that when I finally did, I messed it up.”
I hit him on the arm. “We haven’t gotten that far yet.” I said
Shane rolled his eyes and made himself more comfortable.
Two years ago
I only told the girls I was going to a private dance and they were all over me. Each making a suggestion on what I should wear, how I should do my hair and how much make-up I needed. Plus they were firing all sorts of questions at me.
“Who asked you?”
“Is he handsome? Rich?”
“Have you had sex with him or not?”
“Where’s the dance?”
“Can you can bring guests?”
“Girls!” Shouted Hannah. Immediately the girls stopped and looked at her. I didn’t like her much, but I could see she can get control and still be liked. I
admired her for that. “Let he speak. She won’t be able to answer if you all ask at once or one after another. I for one would like to know some answers. That will help us decide what you can wear. Now, is he rich?”
I never asked Shane that. “I suppose he is.” I said “How many mid-class parents can hold a private dance?”
“Good answer. So I would suggest a black dress. Is he one for looks?” I raised my eyebrow at her. Clearly she could answer that herself. “Right.
Definitely a black dress. Black is slimming. Rosette, get a black dress with shoulder straps. I would suggest maybe… knee length?”
Rosette nodded and we immediately lost her in the many rows of clothes in the clothes shop. I was grateful to have these girls at hand, I didn’t know where to start.
“Now let me see…” Hannah was turning me round in small circles. I decided not to ask what she was doing. “Cathy, some high-heels. Get various heights.
High-heels are a must at a dance Iris. We just need to find one that’s comfortable for you. Of you go Cathy! We don’t have all day.”
Cathy hurried of to the shoe section. How often do they come here? I asked myself, they knew exactly where everything is.
“Jewellery Alison, what do you suggest?”
Alison considered for a while. It was like she was picturing me in the dress. Then she said “A gold necklace with a matching watch. Make sure you get red
shoes!” She shouted to Cathy.
“And hair?” Asked Hannah
“Up, definitely. It’s Valentine that night. And if I’m not mistaken, you’ll be taken to his room. We’ve made it easy with the dress, but we’ll make it
harder for them with our hair.”
Valentine. The holiday was ringing in my ears. I had completely forgotten about it. Since school, Valentine’s Day was of my map. 14th February was just an ordinary day for me.
Present day
“You didn’t realise it was Valentine’s Day?” Asked Shane, a little shocked.
I nodded. “It wasn’t my favourite holiday at all. I vowed to myself to forget about it all together.”
“What did you do when you were reminded?” Asked Kian
“I was trying to talk myself out of it. I even started to walk away. But Hannah slapped my face.”
“Ouch.” Said Rosy
I laughed. “Not literally Rosy. She basically gave me a wake up call. One I will always be thankful for.”
Two years ago
“Why back way now Iris?” Demanded Hannah “You wouldn’t walk away if the dance was any other night. So why now? Why talk yourself out of the dance on your first Valentine’s Day? So much could happen girl.”
I didn’t want to listen to Hannah but her words sank in. I only had one Valentine dance and even then I was made a fool. Left standing in a corner when
my date never showed his face. And when he did he had another girl on his arm.
“Just think, at least you’re out having fun. I for one will be staying at home. My new boyfriend is out on a business trip that day. Out of all days.”
Hannah muttered the last bit under he breath but I could still hear. “Oh good, the girls are back. Try on the dress. We’ll with the shoes later. In you
go.”
I stepped into the changing room and tried on the dress. As a four, the girls did work wonders on outfits. Just answer a simple question or a few and you’ll
be wearing the perfect fitted dress that seems to have you name on.
The dress was a simple black. It had a v-neck that came just above my breasts. And it was knee length. I would have chosen something else, but I
really liked the simple colour dress.
“You ready Iris?” Shouted Hannah
I breathed deeply as I tried to calm my nerves. Displaying a dress to these girls is as nerve racking as any first date. When I was calm enough, I pulled
the curtain back. Straight away I had their attention.
“Turn.” Said Hannah. I turned. “Simple is always the best look. Especially to a rich man. Okay, we don’t know if he is rich, we’re only going by the fact that
his parents are having a private party. And private parties means big money. Got to heavily on the dress and have too much showing will divert the man’s eye. Remember that.”
“Will try.” I said
“Now for the shoes…”
Present Day
“Those girls did wonders on you.” Said Shane. “The dress, the hair… the make-up. Everything was just right. And you failed to mention it had a zip at
the back.”
I rolled my eyes. “I was saving that little detail for when we got to the good stuff.”
“There’s good stuff?” Asked Nicky
Everyone looked at him and I saw his cheeks go slightly pink. I laughed. “Of course there’s good stuff Byrne.”
“Sorry. It’s just that Shane said he messed it up.”
“When I tried to kiss her for the first time.” Said Shane “I was conscious everyone was looking at us. We were the only one’s on the dance floor. And I
couldn’t believe I was dancing with this girl from school. She truly was transformed…”
Two years ago
“You look beautiful.” Whispered Shane
We were dancing solo at his parents dance with everyone else watching. I couldn’t hide my discomfort very well but thankfully Shane kept me moving. I had to admit, he was a good dancer.
“Thanks. And you look very nice in that tuxedo.” I said
“Thanks.”
The music slowed and we swayed to the slow beat on one spot. Every second Shane took a small step closer until our bodies were touching. I could feel the heat coming from him.
“Do you still think I’m a jerk?” He whispered
“No. Not now that I understand why.” I said
He smiled and my toes were touching his. His head slowly inched towards mine. I found it hard to breathe when my eyes caught his juicy lips. With only a few millimetres gap left, I pulled my head. I tried to keep my mouth close but the pain came quickly.
Present day
“What pain?” Asked Clare
“Without knowing I had stepped on her toe.” Explained Shane
“And I was wearing those shoes that your toes peek through.” I said
“Ouch!” Said the girls. The lads laughed.
“One way of messing things up Shane.” Said Mark
Shane had to laugh to. “I’m glad I did, in a way. My parents hammered me afterwards. Wanting to know every little detail. Can you imagine what they would have been like if we did kiss right there and then?”
“So when did things ‘hot up’ between you two then?” Asked a very interested Mary.
Shane and I looked at each other, each with a small smile on our lips…
Two years ago
After we had finished our dance, we managed to sneak away with only talking to a few of the guests. Alison said I would be taken to his room. However, the dance was being held at a hotel his parents owned. And they were staying the night. Now we were laying on the bed in one of the upstairs rooms. I was on my stomach, looking out of the window. Shane was sitting up, twisting a strand of my hair in his fingers.
“How’s the baby doing?” Shane asked
I sighed deeply. “It’s doing well. I just don’t know if I’ll keep him.”
Shane was silent for a while. I turned on my back and starred up at him. There was sadness in his eyes and I wondered why.
“You’ll get an abortion?” He asked quietly.
I nodded slowly. “No one else knows Shane. Not even the father. But how can I keep him when all I will be reminded of is how he came around? I want to keep him. But honestly I can’t. Out of everyone you should understand.”
“I do. It’s the girl’s choice at the of the day. If you want to go through with it, I’ll be there for you.”
I pushed myself up and hugged him tightly. During school I never thought I would be doing this. A few minutes later I only move my head back so I could see him. Then I kissed him quickly on the cheek.
“What was that for?” Shane asked surprised.
I shrugged a shoulder. “For being a friend. I never thought you could be so sweet.”
Shane laughed. “I have my moments. People will be surprised. To be honest Iris… I’ve changed since I began to know you. You’re the best thing that has
happened to me. And I’m so glad I got to know you.
There was seriousness in his eyes that me kiss him on the lips. I pulled away quickly, shocked at my own action. Shane moved his head in closer and his lips found mine. I was confused, my body was just as confused. But my tongue knew what it wanted. It ran itself across Shane’s lips and tried to part them. Shane was wanting me so he parted his lips and our tongues played, demanding to be the first to explore.
Never once did we break the kiss. Not ever when we undressed each other. Soon I was underneath him, my hand tugging at the hem of his boxers. His hand travelled down my back and his fingers slipped into my underwear. I pulled his boxers down to his knees and with one hand he did the rest. He quickly pulled my underwear down.
It was only then did he break the kiss. He started to kiss my jaw line, my neck and travelled. He missed my breasts and kissed my stomach…
Present day
“That’s enough detail.” Said Shane
“Getting to the good bit Shane!” Complained Nicky
Shane laughed and shook his head. “Some of us are not yet old enough to hear about it Nicky. And besides, I don’t hear you describing things.”
Nicky moved uncomfortably in his chair. I looked at Mary and she had a little deeper shade of pink in her cheeks. She was the youngest in the group. We were all surprised when Nicky introduced her and mentioned her age when she wasn’t around.
“What ever happened to the girls?” Asked Rosy
“I spent less and less time with them after that night with Shane.” I said “I was hurt when I over heard Hannah talk to her dad in a queue.”
“What did she say?” Asked Clare
“She basically said she was helping the poor. With a lot more words. It was like I was some project that she could show to her dad. Once she was approved or awarded in some way, she would discharge me. Last thing I heard she was in France, organising a wedding with her French boyfriend.”
“But she helped you.” Said Shane
“Yeah she did. Some of her advice I have kept. And a little admiration for her is still there.”
“And the baby?” Asked Mark “Did you have the abortion?”
I shook my head. Shane Said “Iris fell down the stairs the next morning. She lost the baby.”
“And the father? Did he ever find out?” Asked Rosy
“Eventually.” I said “Shane talked me into it. Now I don’t have any family.”
Kian was shocked. He asked “Why?”
I looked at Shane and he nodded in encouragement. I sighed deeply and looked back at the group. “The father was my uncle. By the time I contacted my family, he spread the word about what happened. Turning things around so it made him look like the victim. Having a baby was proof people needed.”
“Didn’t they listen to your side of the story?” Asked Nicky
“They heard the words but didn’t listen. To them my uncle could do no wrong. By his age he wasn’t able to do any of the stuff I was trying to describe. To
everyone I was in the wrong.”
The group fell silent. I rested my head on Shane’s shoulder and got lost in my own thoughts.
A lot has happened since that Valentine’s Day two years ago. And we all have reasons for being here tonight. Valentine’s Day two years later with still so
much promise…
The End.
his body. My head was resting on his shoulder while his chin was resting on the
top of my head. We were joined by our friends, all sitting closely next to their
girlfriends and boyfriends. Us girls could only dream about this two years ago.
We couldn’t believe this was true.
“Have you two always gotten along so well?” Asked Kian
Shane thought for a while and then said “Not until Valentine’s Day two years ago.”
“We were at school together.” I explained “He was the jock and I was the geek.”
“That’s harsh.” Said Nicky
Shane laughed “If you didn’t do sports, weren’t into fashion or drove your own car, you were classified as a geek.”
“Their nicer way of calling you a loser.” I said
“I never though you were a loser. I did feel sorry for you though.”
“Whatever.” I shrugged my shoulder. I didn’t want the others to know about my life in school.
“So what changed things around?” Asked Mark
I lifted my head and looked at Shane. No one knew the whole story, the truth. Maybe tonight that would change.
“It all started when I was working at that restaurant,” Shane began “Iris was having a meal with a group of friends, which I was surprised at. She used to
wonder around the school on her own. I could hear them talking, but I didn’t know what about…”
Two years ago
I was sitting at a round table with my four friends. I was the only one whodidn’t have a full wine glass. It wasn’t like I didn’t drink, I did, it was just
still too early. They were talking about their dates for tomorrow night. Each girl having a new man escorting them to the movies. It’s funny how they always
seem to break a relationship at the same time and always manages to get someone new the next day. And yet they can’t understand why I haven’t even got one boyfriend.
“If you had a boyfriend you can join us Iris.” Said a blonde girl, Hannah.
“It’s not too late girl. Any of these men will do.” Said a brunette, Cathy.
“I know one of them over there.” Said a red head, Alison. She had nodded her head towards a group of young men in suits. One in particular looked our way and she waved. He smiled back knowingly.
I put a hand on my stomach and waited for the nausea to pass.
“And how old is he?” Asked Hannah.
Alison shrugged a shoulder “He says 19 but I say more 21, 22. Not that much difference.”
Hannah looked at me and I shook my head. She sighed heavily, clearly annoyed by me. “You don’t need to the know the man Iris.” She said “Just sleep with him.”
“Go round the back and snog him.” Said another blonde, Rosette “Go home with him, have a few drinks and go with the flow.”
Now I was really going to be sick. I ran to the bathroom, ignoring the faces that turned my way. I didn’t check what door I went through, I didn’t care if
someone was in there. I went directly to the first sink and vomited.
Once my system was clear, I wiped my face with a hand towel. I’ve been sick around this time for the last couple of days. I’ve refused to go to the doctor,
but maybe I had to. I just didn’t want to hear it. Once the words were out, there’ no hiding the truth. The door to the cubicle behind me opened and we both
stood frozen.
At the time I didn’t care, but now I could feel my cheeks go hot and I could see them turning red.
“Iris?” He asked…
Present Day
“This is the part you two meet again right?” Asked an excited Rosy
Shane laughed “If you listen and don’t interrupt, you’ll find out.”
“I thought you said you heard the girl talking?” Asked Kian, a bit confused.
“I did. I had to have a bathroom break.”
“I had to ask.”
We all laughed and I continued the story…
Two years ago
I couldn’t believe it. Bad enough I was in the men’s bathroom, now I was facing an old school… enemy?
“Shane?” I said “Shane Filan?”
“Yeah.” Said Shane
He slowly walked to the sink beside me and washed his hands. I watched him in the mirror. I still couldn’t believe it.
“What are you doing here Iris? I mean, in the men’s.”
I could feel my cheeks going hotter. “I needed the bathroom quick. Didn’t bother to check.”
“Right. Here,” he reached for his pocket and brought out some gum. “Your breath stinks. And I’m not cleaning that mess up after you.”
Shane shifted his eyes to the sink and made a face that told me he thought it was smelly. I rolled my eyes, took some gum and muttered “Thanks”. Then he left the bathroom.
Present day
“That wasn’t very nice Shane.” Said Claire “Clearly she wasn’t very well.”
“That was our relationship back then.” Explained Shane “Besides, I didn’t get paid enough to clear someone’s vomit. Or to hide that fact Iris was in the
men’s.”
I hit him playfully on the arm. I was now sitting beside him, slowly getting annoyed with the interruptions.
“Were you pregnant?” Asked Mary
I nodded “I was late and being sick everyday. At the time I was stressed, so I though I was late because I was stressed. Can happen.”
“What were your reasons for being sick?” Asked Mark
I shrugged a shoulder “I didn’t have one. It was being sick for the fifth time in a row that made me go to the doctors…”
Two years ago
“We’ll give you a call in the results are in.” Said Dr. Crystal “In the mean time, take it easy. I’ll see you soon.”
“Thank you Doctor.” I said and started to stand.
Dr. Crystal stood up to and walked me to the door. I said thanks again and left the doctors. I didn’t go very far. I sat on the wall on the opposite side.
Then I saw him again
“You again.” He said, his tone mixed with humour and annoyance. “Thought when we left school I got away from you.”
“So did I.” I said quietly, looking down the road.
He sat down next to me, our elbows just touching. I had to look at him then.
“You okay?” He asked, real concern on his face.
“I’m fine.” I said
“You got a family member or a friend in there?” I shook my head. I moved my eyes to the ground and saw a tear fall onto the pavement. “What’s wrong
Iris?”
“Nothing for you to know Shane.” I hissed at him, my watery eyes glaring at him. That was enough for me to stand and attempt to leave. But all I did was
turn round and folded my arms across my chest.
I felt his toes touching my heels and his arms appeared around mine. I wanted to get loose, but I didn’t have the energy. I allowed him to pull my body to
his, our breathing in rhythm.
“You wanna talk about it?” He asked softly. “We can talk over coffee.”
“There’s nothing to talk about.” I said
“There is. You were never the one to see the doctor. You need to talk about it. I’m sure your friends won’t listen.”
Present day
“Did you talk to him?” asked Nicky
“Yeah.” I said “Shane was right on both accounts. I needed to talk and the girls weren’t the people to talk to. They would tell everyone and anyone they
had contact with. Plus I would have to tell them who the father was and describe that night.”
“How much did you tell him?”
“Not much. I still didn’t trust him. I left a lot of blanks, telling him the story with as little detail as possible. But he listened, he heard every word.
He waited till the end before he spoke. And I was grateful.”
“What happened after that?” Asked Rosy.
“Soon after we talked I began to see her differently.” Said Shane “At school I only saw her as a lonely. Iris never seemed to have friends. That’s why I was
surprised to see her with a group of girls. With a small understanding of her background, I began to see why. I asked her out a couple of times afterwards. A little more came out every time. Then came an important dance at my family’s hotel. And I didn’t want to go alone…”
Two years ago
I was finding it hard to believe I have been out a couple of times with Shane Filan. We were slowly beginning to understand each other. Every time he asked me out, I was always slow at saying ’yes’. I was happy to go out with other people than the girls. It just wasn’t my scene going out with just one man. I felt better in a group.
Now I was starring at the text message Shane had sent me. He was asking if I would meet him in the restaurant in 10 minutes. I was in the restaurant, have been for a good 30 minutes since I got the text. I was beginning to get annoyed.
“I’m sorry Iris.” Shane said when he finally appeared “My shift finished when I sent you that text. My boss wanted me to do something extra. I’m so
sorry!”
“It’s okay.” I said “I wouldn’t be so forgiving if I was stood up.”
Shane laughed. I was growing to love his smile. “Would I do that to you?”
“Possibly. You could simply go back to the boy from school.”
“I could do. But that boy wouldn’t have asked you for your hand.”
I felt my eyes go wide. Did I just hear that correctly?
Shane laughed again “I didn’t mean it like that! What I meant was… Would you go to my parents dance with me?”
He was serious. How could I answer?
Present Day
“So how did you answer?” Asked Mary
“I simply nodded.” I said “He smiled his wonderful smile and kissed me on the forehead. His finger hovering over my lips.”
Nicky raised and eyebrow and looked questioningly at Shane.
Shane laughed “I did want to kiss her right there and then.” He said “But something stopped me. Something was telling me to wait. I got so burned up just
thinking about kissing her that when I finally did, I messed it up.”
I hit him on the arm. “We haven’t gotten that far yet.” I said
Shane rolled his eyes and made himself more comfortable.
Two years ago
I only told the girls I was going to a private dance and they were all over me. Each making a suggestion on what I should wear, how I should do my hair and how much make-up I needed. Plus they were firing all sorts of questions at me.
“Who asked you?”
“Is he handsome? Rich?”
“Have you had sex with him or not?”
“Where’s the dance?”
“Can you can bring guests?”
“Girls!” Shouted Hannah. Immediately the girls stopped and looked at her. I didn’t like her much, but I could see she can get control and still be liked. I
admired her for that. “Let he speak. She won’t be able to answer if you all ask at once or one after another. I for one would like to know some answers. That will help us decide what you can wear. Now, is he rich?”
I never asked Shane that. “I suppose he is.” I said “How many mid-class parents can hold a private dance?”
“Good answer. So I would suggest a black dress. Is he one for looks?” I raised my eyebrow at her. Clearly she could answer that herself. “Right.
Definitely a black dress. Black is slimming. Rosette, get a black dress with shoulder straps. I would suggest maybe… knee length?”
Rosette nodded and we immediately lost her in the many rows of clothes in the clothes shop. I was grateful to have these girls at hand, I didn’t know where to start.
“Now let me see…” Hannah was turning me round in small circles. I decided not to ask what she was doing. “Cathy, some high-heels. Get various heights.
High-heels are a must at a dance Iris. We just need to find one that’s comfortable for you. Of you go Cathy! We don’t have all day.”
Cathy hurried of to the shoe section. How often do they come here? I asked myself, they knew exactly where everything is.
“Jewellery Alison, what do you suggest?”
Alison considered for a while. It was like she was picturing me in the dress. Then she said “A gold necklace with a matching watch. Make sure you get red
shoes!” She shouted to Cathy.
“And hair?” Asked Hannah
“Up, definitely. It’s Valentine that night. And if I’m not mistaken, you’ll be taken to his room. We’ve made it easy with the dress, but we’ll make it
harder for them with our hair.”
Valentine. The holiday was ringing in my ears. I had completely forgotten about it. Since school, Valentine’s Day was of my map. 14th February was just an ordinary day for me.
Present day
“You didn’t realise it was Valentine’s Day?” Asked Shane, a little shocked.
I nodded. “It wasn’t my favourite holiday at all. I vowed to myself to forget about it all together.”
“What did you do when you were reminded?” Asked Kian
“I was trying to talk myself out of it. I even started to walk away. But Hannah slapped my face.”
“Ouch.” Said Rosy
I laughed. “Not literally Rosy. She basically gave me a wake up call. One I will always be thankful for.”
Two years ago
“Why back way now Iris?” Demanded Hannah “You wouldn’t walk away if the dance was any other night. So why now? Why talk yourself out of the dance on your first Valentine’s Day? So much could happen girl.”
I didn’t want to listen to Hannah but her words sank in. I only had one Valentine dance and even then I was made a fool. Left standing in a corner when
my date never showed his face. And when he did he had another girl on his arm.
“Just think, at least you’re out having fun. I for one will be staying at home. My new boyfriend is out on a business trip that day. Out of all days.”
Hannah muttered the last bit under he breath but I could still hear. “Oh good, the girls are back. Try on the dress. We’ll with the shoes later. In you
go.”
I stepped into the changing room and tried on the dress. As a four, the girls did work wonders on outfits. Just answer a simple question or a few and you’ll
be wearing the perfect fitted dress that seems to have you name on.
The dress was a simple black. It had a v-neck that came just above my breasts. And it was knee length. I would have chosen something else, but I
really liked the simple colour dress.
“You ready Iris?” Shouted Hannah
I breathed deeply as I tried to calm my nerves. Displaying a dress to these girls is as nerve racking as any first date. When I was calm enough, I pulled
the curtain back. Straight away I had their attention.
“Turn.” Said Hannah. I turned. “Simple is always the best look. Especially to a rich man. Okay, we don’t know if he is rich, we’re only going by the fact that
his parents are having a private party. And private parties means big money. Got to heavily on the dress and have too much showing will divert the man’s eye. Remember that.”
“Will try.” I said
“Now for the shoes…”
Present Day
“Those girls did wonders on you.” Said Shane. “The dress, the hair… the make-up. Everything was just right. And you failed to mention it had a zip at
the back.”
I rolled my eyes. “I was saving that little detail for when we got to the good stuff.”
“There’s good stuff?” Asked Nicky
Everyone looked at him and I saw his cheeks go slightly pink. I laughed. “Of course there’s good stuff Byrne.”
“Sorry. It’s just that Shane said he messed it up.”
“When I tried to kiss her for the first time.” Said Shane “I was conscious everyone was looking at us. We were the only one’s on the dance floor. And I
couldn’t believe I was dancing with this girl from school. She truly was transformed…”
Two years ago
“You look beautiful.” Whispered Shane
We were dancing solo at his parents dance with everyone else watching. I couldn’t hide my discomfort very well but thankfully Shane kept me moving. I had to admit, he was a good dancer.
“Thanks. And you look very nice in that tuxedo.” I said
“Thanks.”
The music slowed and we swayed to the slow beat on one spot. Every second Shane took a small step closer until our bodies were touching. I could feel the heat coming from him.
“Do you still think I’m a jerk?” He whispered
“No. Not now that I understand why.” I said
He smiled and my toes were touching his. His head slowly inched towards mine. I found it hard to breathe when my eyes caught his juicy lips. With only a few millimetres gap left, I pulled my head. I tried to keep my mouth close but the pain came quickly.
Present day
“What pain?” Asked Clare
“Without knowing I had stepped on her toe.” Explained Shane
“And I was wearing those shoes that your toes peek through.” I said
“Ouch!” Said the girls. The lads laughed.
“One way of messing things up Shane.” Said Mark
Shane had to laugh to. “I’m glad I did, in a way. My parents hammered me afterwards. Wanting to know every little detail. Can you imagine what they would have been like if we did kiss right there and then?”
“So when did things ‘hot up’ between you two then?” Asked a very interested Mary.
Shane and I looked at each other, each with a small smile on our lips…
Two years ago
After we had finished our dance, we managed to sneak away with only talking to a few of the guests. Alison said I would be taken to his room. However, the dance was being held at a hotel his parents owned. And they were staying the night. Now we were laying on the bed in one of the upstairs rooms. I was on my stomach, looking out of the window. Shane was sitting up, twisting a strand of my hair in his fingers.
“How’s the baby doing?” Shane asked
I sighed deeply. “It’s doing well. I just don’t know if I’ll keep him.”
Shane was silent for a while. I turned on my back and starred up at him. There was sadness in his eyes and I wondered why.
“You’ll get an abortion?” He asked quietly.
I nodded slowly. “No one else knows Shane. Not even the father. But how can I keep him when all I will be reminded of is how he came around? I want to keep him. But honestly I can’t. Out of everyone you should understand.”
“I do. It’s the girl’s choice at the of the day. If you want to go through with it, I’ll be there for you.”
I pushed myself up and hugged him tightly. During school I never thought I would be doing this. A few minutes later I only move my head back so I could see him. Then I kissed him quickly on the cheek.
“What was that for?” Shane asked surprised.
I shrugged a shoulder. “For being a friend. I never thought you could be so sweet.”
Shane laughed. “I have my moments. People will be surprised. To be honest Iris… I’ve changed since I began to know you. You’re the best thing that has
happened to me. And I’m so glad I got to know you.
There was seriousness in his eyes that me kiss him on the lips. I pulled away quickly, shocked at my own action. Shane moved his head in closer and his lips found mine. I was confused, my body was just as confused. But my tongue knew what it wanted. It ran itself across Shane’s lips and tried to part them. Shane was wanting me so he parted his lips and our tongues played, demanding to be the first to explore.
Never once did we break the kiss. Not ever when we undressed each other. Soon I was underneath him, my hand tugging at the hem of his boxers. His hand travelled down my back and his fingers slipped into my underwear. I pulled his boxers down to his knees and with one hand he did the rest. He quickly pulled my underwear down.
It was only then did he break the kiss. He started to kiss my jaw line, my neck and travelled. He missed my breasts and kissed my stomach…
Present day
“That’s enough detail.” Said Shane
“Getting to the good bit Shane!” Complained Nicky
Shane laughed and shook his head. “Some of us are not yet old enough to hear about it Nicky. And besides, I don’t hear you describing things.”
Nicky moved uncomfortably in his chair. I looked at Mary and she had a little deeper shade of pink in her cheeks. She was the youngest in the group. We were all surprised when Nicky introduced her and mentioned her age when she wasn’t around.
“What ever happened to the girls?” Asked Rosy
“I spent less and less time with them after that night with Shane.” I said “I was hurt when I over heard Hannah talk to her dad in a queue.”
“What did she say?” Asked Clare
“She basically said she was helping the poor. With a lot more words. It was like I was some project that she could show to her dad. Once she was approved or awarded in some way, she would discharge me. Last thing I heard she was in France, organising a wedding with her French boyfriend.”
“But she helped you.” Said Shane
“Yeah she did. Some of her advice I have kept. And a little admiration for her is still there.”
“And the baby?” Asked Mark “Did you have the abortion?”
I shook my head. Shane Said “Iris fell down the stairs the next morning. She lost the baby.”
“And the father? Did he ever find out?” Asked Rosy
“Eventually.” I said “Shane talked me into it. Now I don’t have any family.”
Kian was shocked. He asked “Why?”
I looked at Shane and he nodded in encouragement. I sighed deeply and looked back at the group. “The father was my uncle. By the time I contacted my family, he spread the word about what happened. Turning things around so it made him look like the victim. Having a baby was proof people needed.”
“Didn’t they listen to your side of the story?” Asked Nicky
“They heard the words but didn’t listen. To them my uncle could do no wrong. By his age he wasn’t able to do any of the stuff I was trying to describe. To
everyone I was in the wrong.”
The group fell silent. I rested my head on Shane’s shoulder and got lost in my own thoughts.
A lot has happened since that Valentine’s Day two years ago. And we all have reasons for being here tonight. Valentine’s Day two years later with still so
much promise…
The End.