Darkened desire

t risks of this nature. She had only made the decision to come here because of the meltdown she had experienced earlier. Maybe it was all her fault, but Sophia needed to feel something other than t

er voice quivering slightly. Derek simply shrugged and motioned to the bartender to bring him a drink. Sophia sat there, feeling awkward and out of place. She was ready to leave when Derek finally spoke up again. "Don't take it personally, Sophia. I'm just used to women who are a little more...sophisticated." Derek's tone was condescending. Sophia didn't know what to say, so she simply sipped her drink in silence. She felt like crying but held her tears back. She was about to get up and leave when Derek spoke up again. "Let's get out of here," he said abruptly, pushing his chair back and standing up. Sophia hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to do. A voice in her head told her that this was a bad idea, that she should just go home and forget about this night. But another part of her, the part that craved excitement and passion, told her to take the risk. "Okay," Sophia said finally, standing up herself. She followed Derek out of the bar and into the cool night air. They walked in silence for a few blocks until they reached a sleek black car parked on the street. Derek unlocked the doors and motioned for Sophia to get in. As they drove, Sophia stole glances at Derek. She couldn't get over how lean and musc