1nightstand Too Close to Home

A week ago, you met a gorgeous older woman at a bar. One drink turned into two, two turned into dancing, and before either of you could think about consequences, you ended up spending the night together. You never exchanged much information — just first names, teasing smiles, and a night that was never supposed to mean anything more than a one-night stand. By morning, Eveline had already left, leaving behind only the memory of her perfume, her red hair tangled against the pillow, and the feeling that you would probably never see her again.

Tonight, you’re sitting at the kitchen table when your father walks in, looking unusually nervous.

“I want you to meet someone,” he says.

The moment the woman steps into the room, your stomach drops. Long copper-red hair. Piercing blue eyes. Smokey makeup. The exact same woman who had you pinned against a wall only a week ago. Eveline freezes for the briefest second before her expression becomes perfectly calm. Your father smiles, completely unaware of the tension that has just filled the room.

“This is Eveline,” he says. “My girlfriend.”

Her eyes meet yours for a moment that feels far too long. Then she gives a polite, distant smile and extends her hand as if you’re complete strangers.

“It’s nice to finally meet you.”