by Glory Lennon

Created on: July 21, 2008   Last Updated: July 22, 2008

Unrequited love.

John watched them on the dance floor. What was wrong with Billy? Not wanting to dance with Lupe was reason enough to be committed. Who wouldn't want to have that girl wrap her silky arms around him and press that delectable body to his? Who wouldn't want to run his own hands down that bare back and feel that soft skin? And why was John torturing himself like this?

"Not you too," Rachel said wistfully.

This brought him out of his revery forcefully. "Excuse me?" he said pulling his gaze away from temptation and trying not to look so guilty.

"Lupe's right, you are exactly like Billy. You're both in love with her, hopelessly." He shook his head. " It's all right, John. I've seen it countless times before. Guys can't help falling in love with her. She's got that undefinable something that draws a guy in. She's not even aware of it, that she's doing anything. She said I'm nuts when I told her about the power she has over men. I wish she'd teach me how she does it. Not much chance of that being she refuses to admit she does," Rachel said resignedly.

He shook his head again until she placed her hand over his. "Don't worry, John. I won't tell her. She's so madly in love with Billy she's totally clueless of everything else around her. Billy, though, I won't have to tell him. I can see it in his eyes. He might suspect so you might have to watch yourself. He can be the jealous type if provoked. Normally he's not. Doesn't have to be with Lupe. She'd never look at another guy and he knows it. They're so perfect together. It's the only thing that keeps me from trying to steal him back," Rachel said miserably.

"Are you in love with him?" John asked, startled.

She shrugged. "I'd like to think it's just infatuation. Can't help it. No one can help who they fall for, can they? But I love Lupe like a sister. I'd never hurt her. Never. Even if I could drag Billy away. And I know you'd never do that either."

He stared at her, astonished. "You're a great friend for Lupe, Rachel. I hope we can be, too," he said sincerely.

She smiled brightly. "Never can have too many friends. Would you like to dance, John? I can cut in on them and give us both a tiny, innocent, little thrill. Be our secret."

He smiled back and stood taking her hand. "Real good friends I think."

They danced slowly talking amicably until the song changed. John twirled Rachel never missing a beat. "You can really dance, John. You're wonderful," she gushed appreciatively.

"Thank you," he replied smiling brightly. Maybe he could fall for Rachel. He'd have to try. He couldn't pine for his kid brother's girlfriend, after all. And perhaps he could convince himself it was just infatuation, too. Who the heck was he kidding? It was pure and simple.

Learn more about this author, Glory Lennon.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.