Samantha King: Speechless

*FIRST SEASON FINALE*
"Speechless"

Season 1: Episode 8

Starring
Queen-of-mean. as Samantha King

with...
Tylerisbold as Nathan Woodward
Welsh_Witch as Ellen Fray
.SAMtheMAN. as James Fray

Samantha found herself home and locked inside her bedroom. She had taken a bottle of sleeping pills from her parents medicine cabinet and shoved a few down her throat. When she awoke from each nap, she stepped into the bathroom to urinate and weigh herself on her scale. It depressed her to see that her weight had increased two pounds. Drinking a bottle of water quickly, she took a few more pills and then curled up into a ball on her bed. This was her routine for the following three days. On the fourth day, James forced her door open and confiscated her sleeping pills. Samantha awoke to find her pills gone and her door removed from its hinges. She groggily lifted up, groaning to herself. Ellen heard her up and rushed into her room.

Ellen: What were you thinking? Sleeping pills? (Face burned with rage)
Samantha: I was tired, mother. (She slurred and struggled to keep her head upright)
Ellen: Bull Samantha! What is going on with you? You’re getting ready to go to college! You’re tired? Life hasn’t even started yet and you’re tired?
Samantha: Stop yelling at me! I’m sick and tired of yelling and fighting. I just need a break!
Ellen: What has happened to my girl? It’s that nasty bar you work at isn't it? Do they give you drugs there? Have you become diseased? Huh? What’s the matter with you?
Samantha: I think I’m going to be sick. (Her eyes rolled into the back of her head and she collapsed to the ground)

Samantha woke up in the hospital with an IV stuck in her arm and her parents at her side. She could hear beeping and she knew her heart was being monitored. Samantha looked around her and whimpered. It scared her to know that her parents would soon find out why she was being hospitalized. How do you try to keep secrets when they were being displayed on a screen for all to see?

Ellen: Sammie? Dear, how are you feeling?
Samantha: I’m fine. What did they do to me?
Ellen: Honey, they had to pump your stomach.
Samantha: Seriously?
James: (Stroked Samantha's hair out of her face) We’re going to get you help. What you’re going through…it’s serious. It scares your mother and it worries me. Why’d you do it, honey?
Samantha: (Shook her head, confused) Do what?

A doctor walked into the room. James pursed his lips and shook the doctor’s hand. Ellen followed suit and sniffled when the doctor tried to comfort her. Samantha watched this exchange and felt her heart speed up a little. The doctor asked them to step outside while he spoke to Sam.

Doctor: Samantha, I am Dr. Patel. I was referred to you from Dr. Michaels. Do you remember her? (Pulling up the visitor’s chair and sitting in it)
Samantha: (Shook her head) Um...no.
Dr. Patel: I didn’t think so. Samantha, do you mind if I ask you a few questions?
Samantha: Why?
Dr. Patel: Well, I want to know why you think you’re here. Tell me.
Samantha: Tell you what? There’s nothing to tell. I took some pills and went to sleep.
Dr. Patel: Did you have the intent of waking up?
Samantha: What kind of question is that? Of course I did! Doctor, I didn’t try to kill myself. It was an accident. I just needed to sleep.
Dr. Patel: (Scribbled something quickly on his clipboard. He took a minute to look over his sheets before looking back up at her) Do you suffer from depression, Sam?
Samantha: No. I mean, I get sad, but everyone does some time or another.
Dr. Patel: Have you ever had suicidal thoughts? Ever act in a way to hurt yourself?
Samantha: No!
Dr. Patel: Samantha, your stats are a bit of a concern to me. Your heart rate is very low in comparison to your records. Do you eat regularly? (Eying her intently)
Samantha: (Gasped silently and shrugged) I eat every day.
Dr. Patel: Do you consume at least twelve hundred calories a day?
Samantha: I don’t know. I don’t count calories.
Dr. Patel: What about meals? Are you eating meals at least three times a day?
Samantha: Doc, the way I’m eating has nothing to do with overdosing on sleeping pills. Please make a point so I can be done here!
Dr. Patel: The point is Samantha I am going to diagnose you as having anorexia nervosa. Your weight is ten pounds below the minimum of what you should weigh for your height.
Samantha: I um…
Dr. Patel: Your body weight is so low that it has already impaired your heart rate to undesirable conditions. This episode with the sleeping pills lowered your heart rate so much that you actually lapsed into a coma.
Samantha: What? How long have I been here?
Dr. Patel: You were brought here by ambulance yesterday. You woke up around nine this evening.
Samantha: I didn’t try to kill myself Doc. I’m really stressed out right now. I’ve got college and work and I’m trying to move on in life.
Dr. Patel: Samantha, are you aware that you’re with child?
Samantha: Excuse me?
Dr. Patel: You’re eight weeks pregnant Samantha.

Samantha felt as though she would lapse back into a coma. She was speechless.

Samantha King: No Longer Desired

*VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED *
"No Longer Desired"

Season 1: Episode 10

Starring
Queen-of-mean. as Samantha King

with...
Tylerisbold as Nathan Woodward

Time passed quickly following their one month anniversary. Samantha continued to deviate from her family at all costs. She claimed to be spending her time at work and out doing other things that sounded scholar-worthy. In an effort to perfect her flawed appearance assumption, Samantha began skipping as many meals as she could manage without Nathan knowing. She started coming to his house later each day, usually spending hours in a diner, wasting time until she could see him. She’d pretend to have already eaten every time she’d arrive at his house and skimp heavily on whatever dish he put in front of her. When she knew she had to eat or risk being discovered, Samantha would purge it later that night. Even on her eighteenth birthday, Samantha faked having a stomach bug so she could deter from eating her birthday cake. The constant thought of food drove Nathan away from her, both emotionally and sexually. She no longer desired to have him touch her. They would go days without having sex, which for any other couple might have been normal. She no longer liked being close to him, especially when unclothed.

Samantha and Nathan sat across from each other at the breakfast table. Unlike other early mornings, Samantha did not speak excitedly about the plans she had for the day. Her plans were going to be the exact opposite of what Nathan would want to hear. She sipped gingerly on her mug of black coffee while Nathan read his newspaper. Samantha cleared her throat to get his attention. He inclined his head but continued to read the article as he did so. Sam tapped the table and he immediately looked at her.

Samantha: We need to take a break. (She muttered miserably)
Nathan: (Furrowed his brow) Why? What’s wrong?
Samantha: I just need some time to myself.
Nathan: (Rolled up the paper and threw it on the ground at his side) Are you angry with me?
Samantha: No, I just need to take a break. Nathan, I start university in a few weeks. I don’t have any money saved, I have nowhere to live, I’m lonely, I haven’t worked out, and I just need a break from being here and with you…
Nathan: What do you mean you’re lonely?
Samantha: Please Nathan...
Nathan: Are you leaving me for someone else?
Samantha: No. That’s not what I meant. Nathan, I haven’t seen any of my friends since I graduated. Surprisingly, I want to be with them for once. It’s just too much. I’m going to go insane if I stay here one more day.
Nathan: Then leave Samantha. Get your things and leave! I never forced you to stay here. What was all that bullshit a few weeks ago about wanting to get married and live together for the rest of our lives? (Slams fist down on the table)
Samantha: I meant it at the time! Nathan, I’m not happy! Don’t you get it?
Nathan: No! I don’t get it, Sam. Why don’t you spell it out for me?
Samantha: I’m tired. It’s getting to the point where I even miss my parents. I can’t take you anywhere in my world because I’ll be persecuted for it. You just flaunt me around like I’m some prize you’ve won. When’s it going to be my turn?
Nathan: You are so immature sometimes, Samantha. Why is everything always about you? You don’t think I sacrifice things for you? You don’t think I’ve put my neck out there when trying to keep you happy? I am stuck between playing mediator, daddy, and fuck buddy! (Throwing his mug across the room and letting it smash to the ground)
Samantha: (Jumped in her seat) I can’t stand it anymore! Here’s your goddamn ring back! Congrats on leaving your wife! You’re a bastard!! (Ripped the ring off her hand and threw it in his face)

Nathan rose from his chair so violently that it flew backwards and hit the wall. Samantha screamed as he gripped her by the forearms and held her against the cabinets. He didn’t shout or yell or even speak. Instead, he shook her roughly and uttered a frustrated growl. She begged him to let her go. He bit his lip and shook his head, squeezing his eyes shut as he lowered his head to the floor. It was almost as if he didn’t realize what he had done. He released Samantha and stooped down to the ground where he picked up her diamond ring. Nathan didn’t look at Samantha, who had stood completely still even as he let go of her.

Nathan: Just keep it Sam. Don’t make me take it back. (Trying to slip the ring back on her hand)
Samantha: (Bent her fingers and pulled her hand back) No, I don’t want that ring. I don’t want you. I’m done.
Nathan: (Wrapped his arms around himself and let out a long, shaky breath. He sounded near to tears when he spoke) Watch the glass when you leave.

Samantha nodded and tiptoed into his bedroom to gather her belongings. Inside, she reminded herself to breathe. Her body ached from the tension and her head spun. Silently, she collected her clothing and overnight things. With one last look, she whimpered as she left it all behind. When she emerged from the doorway, Nathan forced a check in her face. Samantha glanced at it and saw that the amount was for a thousand dollars. She sighed and shrugged, avoiding his eyes.

Samantha: I don’t want your money, Nathan. It’s not going to keep me here. (Tried to hand it back)
Nathan: I don’t want to keep you here Sam. This is to make up for all the time you could have spent working. Life isn’t cheap and this won’t get you far but it’s all I have to give you. Don’t be proud, just take it and leave.
Samantha: Why are you doing this, Nathan?
Nathan: I’ll still be here when you find out.
Samantha: Find out what?
Nathan: That you need help. You’re not fooling anyone. Look at yourself. (Looking her up and down with disgust)
Samantha: You noticed?
Nathan: There are doctors we can see. You’re not in this alone. (Reaching out to grab her hand)
Samantha: (Twitched when he touched her. She placed the check on the counter to brush him off) I don’t want help. I can take care of myself. This is not your problem.
Nathan: Wait a minute…Sam.
Samantha: No, that’s it. I’m not talking about this anymore. (Walked out the door)

Tears were spilling all over her face as she tore from the apartment and down the hallway. Nathan could be heard calling her name as she caught the elevator. Samantha sobbed into her soft camel coat, all the while feeling both ashamed and disloyal. He knew about her deformity all along. What hurt her more than anything was the look of disgust on his face as he looked her over. He was not pleased with how she had changed her body to suit him. She had failed him. What was worse, she had broken off the single most successful relationship she had ever managed for nothing. Nathan would never take her back. She had returned her ring and told him she no longer loved him. Samantha crumpled to the floor in despair.

**Season Finale next Thursday, September 15th!

Samantha King: The Next Mrs.Woodward

*VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED *
"The Next Mrs.Woodward"

Season 1: Episode 9

Starring
Queen-of-mean. as Samantha King

with...
Tylerisbold as Nathan Woodward

The Woodward-King affair continued for several weeks. Samantha would tell her parents she was going to work and then hurry to Nathan’s house for dinner with him and Peter. The trio would sit on the sofa and watch television for an hour or so before Peter went to bed. The rest of the night, Nathan would make love to Samantha. Some nights, Nathan took them out to dinner at a nice restaurant. Other times, they spent the evenings at the movies. Some days, Samantha was able to sneak away during the day and they would spend their time at the shore.

It came to the point where Nathan dressed Samantha more sophisticated so she appeared older. He took her on lavish shopping sprees, buying her designer dresses, purses, and makeup. He accompanied her to the nail salon, where he insisted she keep up with her nails, as well as a hairstylist. Samantha often felt they took things overboard, but Nathan refused to let her leave the house any other way, sometimes causing them to miss their dinner reservations. Half of his closet was devoted to her double life’s wardrobe. He even challenged her to moderate the way she spoke, giving up on the common slang of her high school days. She obliged only to keep him happy and it paid off when he no longer hid their relationship in public. He held her hand and kissed her like any other couple would do. Peter even began referring to Samantha as his daddy’s girlfriend.

Things were not only getting more intense as a family; Nathan and Samantha’s sexual relationship was on fire. Due to their abnormally frequent sexual activity, Nathan took Samantha to a doctor friend and had her get a shot of birth control to manipulate her periods for every three months.

It was a week before Samantha’s eighteenth birthday when they were to celebrate their one-month anniversary. Samantha knew the date was coming up but she wasn’t sure if Nathan was aware of it. To her delight, Nathan had not forgotten their anniversary. Samantha was at home by herself one day while her parents were at work. She was awoken by the sound of her cell phone going off.

Samantha: Hello?
Nathan: Good morning sweetheart…I love you…happy anniversary!
Samantha: (Giggled) I didn’t think you remembered, babe. I love you too.
Nathan: What are you doing around noon?
Samantha: (Looked at her clock) I don’t know. What do you have in mind?
Nathan: I’m taking the rest of the day off so I can spend it with my girl.
Samantha: Oh babe. You don’t have to do that. I’ll just see you tonight.
Nathan: Don’t worry about it. Just get dolled up in one of those cute little dresses you have and I’ll come pick you up.
Samantha: No, I’ll drive. You can’t come here. Listen, I’ll meet you at your house.
Nathan: Okay sweetheart. I’ll see you at noon.
Samantha: Love you.

Samantha glanced down at her pillow and smothered her face before screaming into it. Jumping up, she bounced on her bed excitedly and then ran to her closet. She threw on dress after dress before deciding on a black and purple asymmetrical argyle mini dress. Quickly, she showered and nurtured her body with fragrant powders and perfumes. She looked at her body in the mirror and smirked. After a week of near-starvation, she could see the effect on her body. Her hips looked at least an inch smaller. Still not satisfied, Samantha sighed and pulled on her little dress and a pair of black tights. Quickly putting on her makeup, she grabbed her newest treasure, a black Nine West tote that Nathan bought her one day at the mall, and ran into the kitchen where she jotted a quick excuse for her absence on the fridge.

When she approached Nathan’s apartment, her heart began to beat faster. She knocked and waited. Nathan opened the door and smiled. He was dressed nicely in a pair of jeans and a black sweater, with a white collar sticking out at the top. She noticed, that like always, he was nicely shaven and his skin almost shined he looked so clean. Samantha’s heart skipped a beat as he spoke, his welcoming smile bright and eager.

Nathan: Babe.... (Hugging her and holding her out to look her over)
Samantha: You like? (Twirling around)
Nathan: You look amazing.
Samantha: I tried my best.
Nathan: So did I. Here’s present number one! (He presented her with a bouquet of roses)
Samantha: They’re wonderful. Thank you!
Nathan: (Kissed her lightly) Have a seat on the couch.
Samantha: Ok...
Nathan: (Sat beside her and held her hand)
Samantha: You’re too good to be true.
Nathan: It gets better. I am taking you to this cute little café on the beach where they just so happened to serve an amazing grouper sandwich. I know you like grouper and the beach so it sounded good to me.
Samantha: Sounds delish. I have a present for you too. (She pulled out a medium-sized box she decorated herself and handed it to him)
Nathan: Samantha, you weren’t supposed to get me anything.
Samantha: I know, but your love it babe. Open it!

Nathan opened the box and withdrew a silver picture frame. The picture itself was of Samantha and Peter. Peter was laughing while Samantha pushed him on a swing set at the park. Nathan swallowed. He remembered taking this photo and giving Samantha the negatives. He put the picture aside and took out another frame. This one was a picture he did not remember taking. It was taken in a café somewhere. Samantha had her arms around his neck and was kissing him on the cheek. Both of them were smiling with closed eyes. He looked at Samantha and winked.

Nathan: I love it. It’s perfect. I love you babe.
Samantha: You’re welcome. Happy anniversary babe. I love you too.

Hand in hand, they entered the Mexican-themed grouper shack. Salsa music played and everyone waved Coronas around. Samantha smiled when they sat down on a deck outside, under an umbrella. She liked the way the salty air blew around them lazily and the sun shone down on her arms warmly. She sat in a deck chair beside Nathan and held his hand while they looked out at the waves. Samantha took a deep breath in and sighed, topping it off with giggles.

Samantha: Don’t you just love the beach? It’s so peaceful.
Nathan: (Played with her fingers) Couldn’t live anywhere else.
Waiter: (Approaches their table) So what will you both like to drink?
Nathan: Two Bay Breezes and a Corona with lime, please.
Samantha: And one water please.
Nathan: (Bit his lip and looked at her with an annoyed expression)
Samantha: Not tonight, Nate. I can’t fight it today.
Nathan: Fine. So what are you going to have? A piece of lettuce?
Samantha: Stop it. I’m going to have a grouper sandwich, alright?

Nathan didn’t reply; he just continued to read the menu. A minute later, their waiter returned with their drinks. Samantha snatched her Bay Breeze and began to drink it immediately. The waiter watched, amused, and then asked to take their order.

Samantha: An eight ounce grouper sandwich, please. Fries on the side.
Nathan: I'll have the same except I rather have four ounces. (Sat back and took a swig of his beer. He played with the lime but only when he couldn’t stand to have Samantha glare at him from behind her now empty glass) We’re celebrating today. You can eat whatever you want.
Samantha: Mind if I have your Breeze?
Nathan: You’re going to get drunk if you don’t pace yourself babe.
Samantha: Never mind. I don’t want it.
Nathan: Why not?
Samantha: I just don’t want it.
Nathan: A glass of vodka is not going to make you fat, Sam.
Samantha: I know that! It’s just…
Nathan: Sam, what is going on lately? Why can’t we ever just enjoy a meal?
Samantha: I’m sorry. Really, I just have a lot running through my head right now. Forgive me? (Tickling his wrist)
Nathan: (Grinned mildly)

When their food came, Nathan and Samantha switched plates without even speaking. She tried to eat her whole sandwich but four ounces of fish proved to be too much. Nathan finished her sandwich for her and left his uneaten half to be taken home for Peter to eat later. Samantha, though queasy at the thought, enjoyed eating their anniversary lunch. After they paid their bill, Samantha took off her boots and tights and threw them in the backseat of Nathan’s car. She pranced along the beach, swishing in the water, and kicking sand everywhere. Nathan retrieved a small digital camera out of his glove box and took pictures of her every movement.

Nathan: Strike an ‘I love you’ pose! (Called out to Samantha when she was near the water)
Samantha: (Held her arms above her head as though reaching to Heaven and bounced around on her toes with her eyes closed) I love you!
Nathan: (Chuckled as he snapped several shots of her at once)
Samantha: (Ran and tackled him in the sand. She sat on top of his legs and played the drums on his chest)
Nathan: (Laughed and seized her head in his hands and kissed her lips)
Samantha: Not now! I have fish breath.
Nathan: (Busted out laughing again and kissed her all over her face) I love you Sam.

They rolled in the white sand until Nathan was nearly touching the murky mess near the water’s edge. Standing up, they held each other as they walked back and forth in the water, collecting different shaped shells. When it got too warm, they headed back to the car. They were driving down the interstate when Nathan poked Samantha in the arm.

Samantha: Ouch! (She giggled) That hurt.
Nathan: Open the glove box and hand me the map inside please.
Samantha: (Looked inside for a map. There were different papers shoved in envelopes and bank receipts. Samantha couldn’t find it. She drew her head back) Are you sure you put one in here?
Nathan: (Shrugged and dug around inside his pocket. Finally he withdrew something small from his pocket. He grinned at her) Forget the map. Why don’t you give this a try? Present number two. (He held a small ring between his fingers)
Samantha: Nate. (Gasped as she made to take it from him)
Nathan: (He clasped it in his palm and asked for her left hand and he slipped the small object on her ring finger)
Samantha: (She looked down at the ring and back at him, awestruck and speechless) It's beautiful, but...
Nathan: I’m not asking you to marry me.
Samantha: Good. (Let out a sigh of relief)
Nathan: I’m legally divorced now. Signed the papers yesterday.
Samantha: Really? Oh Nate. Thanks.
Nathan: This ring is a promise ring, Sam. I want you to wear it every day. If there ever comes a day when you decide you don’t love me anymore, I want it back.
Samantha: That won't ever happen babe. I love you. The ring is perfect.
Nathan: I’ll buy you a bigger one when you’re older.
Samantha: I’m turning eighteen in a week.
Nathan: I know. Think of this as an early birthday gift.

Samantha waved the ring around in the sunlight and watched its reflection bounce off the roof of the car. She wondered what her parents would say if they saw it. She decided she didn’t care. She wasn’t going to hide it. She’d wear it every day as a sign of her devotion to the man beside her. They drove back to the apartment where Nathan led her to the sofa. He massaged her feet slowly, winking at her every now and then. Samantha pointed with her fingers to come sit next to her. Nathan sat next to her and sighed. Samantha made him pull off his sweater. She massaged his neck and shoulder blades. Nathan groaned and rolled his neck. Sam kissed the side of his head and ran her fingers through his hair. She rested her head on his shoulder and talked from behind him.

Samantha: I want to stay here forever.
Nathan: I wish you did babe.
Samantha: I could. Next time you give me a ring, I want it to accompany a life with you.
Nathan: You want to get married?
Samantha: Yes, I want to get married. Not now, of course. In a few years.
Nathan: If that’s what you want babe. ,
Samantha: I want to be the next Mrs. Woodward. I want to build a house on the shore where we could live together with Peter like a little family. Maybe get a golden retriever. What do you think?
Nathan: Sounds like everything I’ve ever wanted. (He carried Samantha off to his bedroom once again and made love to her throughout the evening)

In the middle of the night, Samantha found herself stumbling into the bathroom while Nathan slept. She did everything she could to hold back tears but they flooded her eyes and dripped onto her bare legs. As she sobbed, she looked in the mirror and examined her “new” body. She felt she looked worse than ever. Samantha pinched the fat on the sides of her stomach and nearly gagged. The retching gave her an idea. She turned on the faucet then stuck her head deep into the toilet bowl, right above the water. With all her might and as quietly as possible, she forced herself to vomit.

At first, all she could manage was a watery, mucous-stringed substance. She persisted and kept pushing on her stomach until she could feel her dinner erupt from deep in her gut. The taste made her feel even worse and it soon became quite easy to continue vomiting. When she figured she had emptied all she could from her stomach, she turned off the faucet and flushed the toilet. She looked into the mirror and saw her face was very red. She appeared to have just made herself ill. She turned the faucet back on and splashed cool water on her face and neck. Quickly, Samantha took Nathan’s toothpaste and squeezed some onto her fingers. She smeared the paste on her teeth and the inside of her mouth. She gargled and spat once. When she was finished, she grabbed a t-shirt off the back of the door and pulled it on quickly. She hurried back to bed and forced herself to fall asleep. Her plans for the next month frightened her into a rattled sleep.

Samantha King: Relaxed & Carefree

*VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED *
"Relaxed & Carefree"

Season 1: Episode 8

Starring
Queen-of-mean. as Samantha King

with...
Tylerisbold as Nathan Woodward
Welsh_Witch as Ellen Fray
.SAMtheMAN. as James Fray

Samantha sat on the couch and sobbed while Nathan stroked her head. She hugged him and bawled. There wasn’t any way for her to get close enough to him. Tighter and tighter she squeezed but she felt like she was still standing in a metal cage, naked and vulnerable. After half an hour, Samantha relaxed enough to talk to him about what happened.

Samantha: It was horrible in there. They dressed me up and made me spin around so they could look at my body. Men would grab my legs and wave dollars at me. I’d bend down and they would stick them in my panties. Some guys touched me while others spoke to me like we were making love. It was sickening.
Nathan: I know, I know.
Samantha: I felt like a pig. I looked disgusting in that ridiculous ten inches of material. It was no different than if I would have walked out there naked.
Nathan: You looked amazing to me. It’s not that you didn’t look sexy, Samantha. That’s not the problem. You just looked sexy for the wrong people.
Samantha: I thought about you the whole time. I thought it would make it easier if I pretended I was dancing for you. It didn’t work. Thinking of you made me feel ashamed. What’s so special about what we have if I share it with everyone?
Nathan: It’s over babe. Don’t beat yourself up.
Samantha: (Looked him straight in the eyes and shook her head violently) No, you don’t understand. Everything I am is yours. You’re the only man I’ve ever given my body to. And tonight, twenty different men saw what belongs only to you!
Nathan: (His jaw dropped slightly. Shocked, he closed his mouth and cleared his throat) Why didn’t you tell me?
Samantha: I didn’t know how. Nathan, it was embarrassing. It still is.
Nathan: You’ve never had sex before?
Samantha: Couldn’t you tell? I mean, aren’t you supposed to be able to feel a difference?
Nathan: I could feel a difference, but I thought it had more to do with how young you were, not how experienced.
Samantha: Please, I can’t stomach anymore.
Nathan: I want the honest truth. I’m not sure even how to say this...do you take any kind of birth control?
Samantha: (Her eyes grew wide. She lifted her head up to stare at him in horror) No. Oh my god, it never even occurred to me!
Nathan: (Put a hand up to calm her down) It’s fine Sam. We’ve only done it twice.
Samantha: I’m nothing but trouble for you. I’m so sorry.
Nathan: (Hugged her and kissed her on top of the head) I’ll take care of you. I promise.

Samantha entered her sleeping house around two in the morning. Saddened and exhausted, she collapsed onto her bed and slept until nearly dinnertime the next day.

Her mother knocked on her bedroom door several times. Samantha didn’t move. She had no desire to get up. When her mother persisted, Samantha rolled to her side and looked at the door. Her mother shouted through the heavy wooden door. Samantha yawned and shuffled to her bathroom. Instead of going to dinner like her mother ordered, Sam took a bath. She sat in the hot water for an hour or more until all the bubbles disappeared. Her hair dripped water all over her floor when she stepped out of the tub. She stood in front of her mirror and looked at her body. The idea of showing what she saw to old men made her feel like she’d rather die. Disgusted, Samantha wrapped herself in a bathrobe and combed her hair.

Neglecting her mother’s warnings that were shouted to her from the kitchen, Samantha sat on her bed, hand toweling her damp hair. At the same moment, she thought of her cell phone. She reached over and grabbed the small device out of her purse. To her great dismay, she found that no one had called her. Nathan had not called. Frustrated, she threw the phone to the floor and curled up into a fetal position. She glanced over at her alarm clock and saw that it was nearly six o’clock. An idea popped into her head. Her mother didn’t know that she had quit her job on opening night. It was the only way she could ever see Nathan again without the risk of being caught. Samantha dressed quickly in a little red sundress and flip-flops. She combed her hair and pulled it back into a ponytail on top of her head. Swinging her purse over her shoulder, she walked down the hallway into the kitchen.

James: Where have you been?
Samantha: Sleeping. I was tired from work. Actually, I have to go back tonight. I’m leaving early so I can deposit my tips in the bank. (Grabbed the keys off the kitchen counter and reached for the front door)
Ellen: Wait. (She touched Samantha’s arm lightly)
James: You haven’t eaten.
Samantha: So? I’ll grab something on the way. Can I go?
Ellen: Sit down babe. We want to hear about your night.
Samantha: I really need to leave. I have to stop at the bank, go to rehearsal, and then work for five hours. I don’t have time for chit-chat, alright?
Ellen: What time will you be back, Sam?
Samantha: Probably around two or three. I have to go. Bye.

Samantha hurried away, kicking up sand and dirt as she did so. She didn’t bother with speed limits or stop signs. It felt both dangerous and depressed as she drove downtown recklessly. When she arrived at the apartment, she ran from the parking lot all the way inside to the elevator. Almost frantically, she tapped the up button, wishing it would speed to the fifth floor. When the doors opened, Sam trotted to Nathan’s front door and knocked. The door didn’t open. She put her ear to the door and could hear no movement inside. Samantha reversed a few steps and panicked. What was she to do now? She put her hands over her eyes and held her breath. Something desperate flooded her being and she began to knock on the door and slap her hands against it. Still, no one answered. She shouted out Nathan's name, hoping that maybe he was just in the bathroom. When no answer came, she slid down to the floor. If he was out, she was certain he would return soon.

Samantha sat on the floor of the darkly carpeted hallway and waited. Half an hour passed. An hour. Two hours. When she looked at her phone, she saw it was now almost nine o’clock. She crossed her legs to the side and shivered. Her bare arms were frozen in the cool atmosphere. Each time the elevator opened, she looked up with the hope of seeing him walk through the doors. Every time, it was some other man or a woman and her children or an elderly couple. Samantha buried her face in her hands. The elevator doors opened again but Sam didn’t bother to look up. She heard a familiar voice speaking. Suddenly, she heard her name.

Peter: Isn’t that Samantha?
Nathan: (Looked at her, puzzled, and hurried to give her a hand up. He helped her smooth her dress, still not speaking)
Samantha: Peter! Hey buddy, how was your weekend?
Peter: Fun! (Gave Samantha a quick hug and ran inside the apartment)
Nathan: What are you doing here?
Samantha: I don’t know. Supposedly going back to work.
Nathan: (Shook his head, confused)
Samantha: (Rolled her eyes) My mother thinks I’m still working. I didn’t tell her I quit!
Nathan: (Smirked) You’re such a liar.
Samantha: Leave me alone, it’s the only way. (She held Nathan’s hand)
Nathan: I know. You look cute tonight by the way.
Samantha: I didn’t plan on it.

It was a very simple evening for the couple. They sat together on the couch. Samantha and Nathan snuggled up together, with Peter sitting on Nathan’s lap. They watched Peter's favorite movie. When it was over, Nathan patted Pete on the back.

Nathan: You need to go to bed Pete.
Peter: Why? I want to stay up with you! (Throwing his arms around Nathan’s neck)
Samantha: (Stroked his head) The sooner you go to bed, the sooner you wake up. (Poking him in the side)
Peter: (Giggled)
Samantha: (Began tickling him furiously, so hard that he was shrieking with laughter)
Nathan: (Scooped up Peter) Alright! You can’t have her all to yourself buddy. (He kissed Peter on the cheek)
Samantha: (Grinned and waved) Night Pete.
Nathan: (Turned around and put Peter down) Give Sam a kiss goodnight.
Peter: (Ran up to Samantha and hugged her and gently gave her a kiss on the cheek) Night Sam.
Samantha: Night-night Pete.
Peter: (Ran into his bedroom)

Nathan stood with his hands on his hips. He gazed down at Sam, staring with admiration and tenderness in his eyes. Sam giggled and stretched her legs out on the sofa. Nathan sank down on the sofa. Neither said a word. Samantha listened to Nathan’s slow breathing and perfect beating heart. She didn’t know if he was actually watching the show or thinking about her. She didn’t care really. It was only when they were watching television that Samantha felt totally relaxed and carefree. When the show ended, Nathan brushed his fingers across her arm lightly.

Nathan: Are you awake?
Samantha: Yeah..crap...I have to get home.
Nathan: You’re not expected until three.
Samantha: I know. But you have to be at work in the morning. I want you to rest. (She ran her fingers across his chest)
Nathan: I don’t want anything but you.
Samantha: I know.
Nathan: I want to make love to you, over and over again.
Samantha: I wish you would but…not here. What if Peter comes out?

Nathan kissed her mouth roughly and picked her up from the sofa. Samantha giggled and kissed him back. They both found themselves locked inside Nathan's bedroom for the rest of the night.

Samantha King: Disaster

*VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED *
"Disaster"

Season 1: Episode 7

Starring
Queen-of-mean. as Samantha King

with...
Tylerisbold as Nathan Woodward
Welsh_Witch as Ellen Fray

Guest Starring
John2_el_mejor as Emilio

It was the longest drive home Samantha ever had to endure. Refusing to cry, she sucked back tears and focused on getting back home before noon. Time was cutting it close and when she drove up the dirt road to her house, she saw it was fifteen after. Cursing under her breath, Samantha grabbed her stuff and walked into the house. She could hear talking in the living room.

Samantha: Ma? Jay, I’m home. (She shut the front door)
Ellen: Honey, come into the living room for a minute. Baby, we got company.

Samantha sighed. The last thing she wanted right now was to be manhandled by her mother’s Mary Kay friends. Smiling, she entered the living room to face a bunch of other middle-aged women sitting around the coffee table playing with their makeup kits. Samantha made her way around the room, hugging each woman out of respect. Her mother glowed with pride. It almost made Samantha gag. It was amazing how sweet and caring Ellen could be in the company of others, and how absolutely darling and wonderful her daughter had grown to be. It made Sam secretly angry.

Ellen: Isn’t she a work of art? Ballerina now. It only took thirteen years but she did it. Sammie, show the girls some moves!
Samantha: (Smiled uneasily) Mom, I have to talk to you....
Ellen: Whatever you have to say, you can say in front of the girls. They’re like your third and fourth mothers.
Samantha: Okay well....umm...I... I got a job last night. It’s a dancing job, actually.
Ellen: Teacher at the Academy?
Samantha: Well, not exactly Ma. More like a go-go dancer.
The room went silent. Her mother’s jaw dropped.
Ellen: (Her mother's jaw dropped) Absolutely Not!! Have you lost your mind??
Samantha: Ma, you don’t understand. It’s fifteen dollars an hour!
Ellen: I don’t care! You are not going to be a goddamn go-go dancer!
Samantha: It’s dancing Ma! I’m not a stripper or anything. We wear mini dresses and white platform boots! It’s not like I’m dancing naked. Please, just consider it!
Lady: Go on Ellen. Let the girl dance! My Janet did it.

The other ladies nodded in agreement. Ellen looked from them to her daughter and then to the floor. Sam knew Ellen felt ganged up on. Not wanting to be the bad guy, Ellen gave in a little.
Ellen: I'll...I’ll talk to James when he gets home.
Samantha: I have to be there by eight tonight. If you want, come watch me and I’ll prove to you that it’s alright!
Ellen: No, I rather not. Fifteen dollars is a lot. You save that money for college. What time will you be home? (Trying to control her temper)
Samantha: I don’t know. Probably around two or three.
Ellen: (Put her tired hands over her eyes) Alright. We’ll see how this works out. If you get into any kind of trouble, it’s over. No more dancing at all. You hear me?

Samantha nodded, walked out of the living room and back into her bedroom. She locked the door as usual and plopped down on her bed. Life was moving too fast for her to relax. Just a mere forty-eight hours ago, Samantha would have given anything to have some sort of obstacle or struggle in her life, just enough to light a fire that had been put out a long time ago. Now, she wished for exactly the opposite. Nonetheless, her recklessness took over and she felt exhilarated to be doing something edgy, uncalled for, and potentially dangerous.

At eight o’clock, Samantha pulled up to the club with one goal in mind: to impress Emilio. Some of the other dancers were standing around the bar chatting when Samantha walked up to join them. Immediately, Samantha recognized the difference between these dancers and herself. These women were beautiful but their beauty looked exhausted. They were the type of women who worked their beauty so much it was more to keep their job than to enjoy. Samantha also saw that they were not at all wearing mini dresses and boots. Instead, these ladies paraded around in provocatively designed lingerie that revealed their magnificently shaped backsides and plunging bust lines. Their makeup was sparkly and some of them wore wigs. Samantha looked them over and realized they did the same to her. She stood a little taller and straighter. One dancer, a young redhead whom greatly resembled Nathan’s wife, stepped forward and spoke first.

Dancer: The new kid on the block has arrived. Welcome to our club. My name’s Candies. What’s your name?
Samantha: Claire.
Candies: (Laughed) Your stage name, doll. What do the boys call you?
Samantha: I don’t have one. This is my first time.
Candies: A virgin! Girls, we’re going to have fun with this one! (She shouted around the bar)

The other dancers on approached Sam, sneering and talking excitedly. It took ten minutes for everyone to introduce herself. Samantha made a mental note of something different for each girl to remember her names. Candies was the redhead and Bambi was the black one. Lola had an Australian accent while Ginger had a thick Scottish one. Finally, Rose was the girl with the large butterfly tattoo on her back and Daphne was the shortest of the whole group. By the time Emilio entered the bar, Samantha knew everyone by name and was christened “Mindy”.

Emilio: Alright, back to work ladies. (Shooed everyone away)

Samantha watched them scurry away, each girl to a different section of the club. Emilio grabbed Sam by the arm and led her to a room at the back. Inside, there were different assortments of brilliantly colored lingerie lying all over the place.
Emilio: This is the dressing room. Get here by eight, dress up, and then I want you in your cage practicing until the doors open at nine. We’ve only got two rules here, okay? Number one, always be on time. Simple, right? Number two, no one touches you. If you’re giving a private dance its hands off.
Samantha: Wait, private dances? I’m not a stripper.
Emilio: No, you are not. None of these girls are strippers. Can I tell you a little secret?
Samantha: Yeah.
Emilio: Great. Well here, you keep what you make. Tips are your quick cash. Cage dancers don’t make many tips. Usually. But private dancers do.
Samantha: Do I have a choice? Can I keep my clothes on?
Emilio: Do whatever the hell you want. Most girls do whatever will get them the most money. Some customers drop a hundred bucks a dance. Do you really think they’re wearing clothes? (He laughed)
Samantha: I understand. So, what now?
Emilio: (Pointed to the pile of clothes) You’re welcome to whatever is here. Come out fully clothed. If you make a mistake, I’ll send you back in to change. Why don’t you try on the purple outfit? Looks like your size. (Winked as he left her to her business)
Samantha: (Leaned against the door and sighed) Don’t let this bother you. It’s just dancing.

Once she was fully dressed, she felt both ashamed and exposed. Her large breasts popped out of the skimpy top way more than it should. She didn’t like the fact that her butt cheeks hung out of her little sequenced shorts. Her platform heels were dangerous to wear and she didn’t think she’d have the courage to actually walk outside. Knowing it was getting late she took a deep breath and opened the door. When she exited the dressing room, the bartenders and Emilio stopped talking to look at her. Uncomfortable, Samantha wrapped her arms around her body.

Emilio: Stop hiding baby. Let me take a look at you. (Pulled her by the arm out into the light so that the whole club could look at her)
Samantha:(Forced herself to smile)
Emilio: Turn around.

Samantha did so, embarrassed when the whistling and jeering continued. She didn’t speak unless she was asked a question. Saying more than she needed would only cause her to become afraid. Emilio nodded in approval and pointed to the cage nearest the bar.

Emilio: That’s home sweet home, baby. Why don’t you take a climb up there?
Samantha: (Approached the stage and looked for the stairs. When she couldn’t find them, she turned around) Where’s the stairs?
Emilio: Lie on your stomach and pull yourself up. Make it sexy when you do.

Samantha blushed and faced the stage. Without much effort, she hoisted herself up and turned back around. When she did so, she pointed her legs in the air as though they were crisscrossed. The smile on her face, though false as it was, gleamed brilliantly. She stood up gracefully and opened the cage door. She stepped inside and situated herself between the pole in the middle and the closed door. Emilio shouted from below asking for a quick dance. Samantha nodded and twirled around in the cage. She danced as intensely sexy as possible, moving the way she thought they’d find erotic. It was humiliating being tossed into a steel cage and made to shake your bare ass in front of rich playboys but Samantha did it anyway to prove to herself and Nathan and the rest of the world that she was in fact just dancing. She continued dancing all while focusing on what she was instructed to do. The whole time, her mind raced as she thought of how embarrassed she was to be here. The thrill in life she was seeking was definitely not going to be found here.

Emilio left her when people began to file into the club. Within minutes, men started to crowd around the bars. A few stood below her cage and watched. The night she had come to the club with Nathan, she hadn’t noticed how many more men than women there were. Samantha moved up and down, grinding the pole. She danced around it in circles, flipping her hair and waving her arms over her head. She tried to look like she was enjoying herself. One older man shouted things up at her. Samantha wasn’t sure if she was supposed to answer or not.

Man: What’s the matter hot stuff? Shy? (He shouted, laughing)
Samantha: My mother told me never to talk to strangers. What’s your name?
Man: Melvin.
Samantha: Well Melvin, my name’s Mindy. I’m new here. Why not give me a little welcome on my first night?
Melvin: Why don’t you come a little closer? I’ve got something you can stick in those purple panties of yours. (Waving a five-dollar bill)
Samantha: (Rolled her hips down until she was within reach of him) Be nice, Melvin.
Melvin: (Stuck the bill in her pants and smacked her bottom. The man laughed as he walked over to the bar)
Samantha: (Shocked of what just happened she stood back up and took the bill out of her panties and carefully replaced it in her bra)

It continued like this for several hours. Samantha would dance, occasionally talk to her onlookers, take their money when they offered it, and do so in a manner of complete and total self-confidence. It wasn’t until a quarter to midnight when someone asked for her first private dance. Samantha was dancing in her cage, more comfortable with her performance now that she was making cash, when one of the bartenders approached her.

Bartender: Mindy! Got a customer interested in a private dance. Asked for you specifically. You free?
Samantha: (She felt very dizzy) Um…yeah. Alright.

She opened the door to the cage and stepped out. Frightened so badly that she began to shake, Samantha slid off the stage, totally negligent of her audience. The bartender took her hand and escorted her down towards the dressing room. Instead of entering the familiar room, he pointed to the door to her left. Samantha stopped him before he walked away by grabbing hold of him around the arm. She whimpered, scared to death of what waited her. The bartender patted her on the back.

Bartender: Min, calm down. You’ll be fine. You look amazing. Just chill babe.
Samantha: Thanks.

The bartender nodded and walked away. Samantha mustered up all her courage and grabbed hold of the doorknob. In one sweeping motion, she opened the door and stepped inside the dimly lit room.

It was like time had slowed down. Samantha entered the dark room. There were mirrors along the wall and it seemed like everything glittered. A black light gave off an eerie fluorescent shade of purple and the floor was black as slate. Her customer was sitting casually in a velvety cushioned love-seat yet looking very grim as he did so. Samantha had to suppress the urge to scream and cry at the same time.
Samantha: Nathan, what are you doing here? (She whispered, all too aware that he was looking at her with disapproval)
Nathan: (Made his way over to her and put his jacket around her nearly naked body)
Samantha: Stop it. I can be fired if you touch me!
Nathan: If I touch you? Samantha, this is wrong. Have you looked in the mirror?
Samantha: Please leave.
Nathan: I can’t leave you here.
Samantha: I’m not going anywhere so just forget it!
Nathan: Well me neither!
Samantha: Fine, sit down and I’ll give you your goddamn lap dance. (Shoving him in the chest)
Nathan: What is the matter with you? Why are you doing this?
Samantha: Stop yelling. I can’t be fired my first night.
Nathan: You are a goddamn mess! Your ass is hanging out your pants and your goddamn tits are sticking out of that little bra thing. What the hell is wrong with you?
Samantha: (Put her head in her hands and sobbed) I-I’m so embarrassed!
Nathan: (Held her tight. Picking her up off her feet, he rushed her out the door)
Samantha: (Pointed towards the dressing room) I have to get my purse and clothes.

Nathan stood outside the door as she quickly dressed. She left the costume on the floor of the dressing room and hurried back out to him, still wearing his coat. Nathan grabbed her hand and kept her close to his side as he led her back out into the club. Not looking at anyone, Samantha ignored the calls for Mindy to return to her cage. On her way out the door, she heard Emilio calling her back into the club. Samantha gripped Nathan tighter and he put his arm around her. They walked toward the parking lot when Emilio burst through the exit after them.

Emilio: Claire! (He shouted)
Nathan: (Turned around and headed towards him) Listen! She’s done here!!

Both men were standing a foot apart, yelling in eachother’s faces. Samantha ran over to them to keep Nathan from slugging him. Emilio looked at Samantha's tear-streaked face and cringed.

Emilio: Suck it up and get your ass back inside! You still owe another hour!
Samantha: No, I quit!
Emilio: So, you’ll dance for a few hours, take my money, and run? I don’t think so Miss Thing! Give me your tips now!
Samantha: I danced for those tips!

Emilio got in her face and shouted incomprehensibly in a mixture of English and Spanish. Finally, sick of all the fighting, Samantha took the money out of her pocket and threw it at Emilio. He gathered his money and thrust it into his pocket.

Emilio: Now get the hell out of my parking lot.
Nathan: (Shoved him in the chest) Speak to her like that again and I’ll crack your fucking skull!!

Emilio backed up and spit on the ground before walking back into the club. Samantha and Nathan walked back toward his apartment.

Samantha King: Morning Run

*VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED *
"Morning Run"

Season 1: Episode 6

Starring
Queen-of-mean. as Samantha King

with...
Tylerisbold as Nathan Woodward

The next morning, Samantha awoke to find she was all alone in Nathan’s bedroom, her robe undone and the sheets wrapped crookedly around her. She sat up slowly and wiped the sleep from her eyes. She could tell it was still early in the morning because the sun had just started to come up into the sky. Tiny rays of light started to trickle in through the blinds. She stretched and then lazily wandered into the kitchen, adjusting her robe on the way. Nathan was dressed in a pair of sweats and a plain white tee, drinking a cup of coffee and reading the Sunday paper. He looked up from his coffee to see Samantha standing there in his bathrobe.

Nathan: Good morning.

Samantha walked over to the table and slid into the seat next to him. She couldn’t help but feel a bit awkward. Waking up in someone else’s bed was something she had only experienced at sleepovers. Nathan didn’t seem to notice. In fact, he seemed quite pleased to see her approach him, disheveled and clothed only in his bathrobe. Sam ran a hand through her messy hair and yawned.

Samantha: Good morning Nate.
Nathan: Coffee?
Samantha: I’ll get it.

She poured a cup and added creamer and sugar. One sip of the hot brown concoction warmed her throat. It was chilly in his house and she shivered slightly.

Nathan: Cold? (Not looking at her but continuing to read his paper instead)
Samantha: Not so much. I’ll be okay.
Nathan: (Grinned and put his paper aside) What time are you leaving?
Samantha: By noon, for sure. What time is it?
Nathan: Almost seven. I didn’t want to wake you because I wasn’t sure if you were an early bird.
Samantha: That’s fine. What are you doing this morning?
Nathan: I thought maybe you’d want to go for a run with me.
Samantha: Great, sounds like fun....wait, I don’t have any shoes or clothes.
Nathan: That’s alright. Sara has a pair of sneakers and some sweats in the closet. You can just wear my t-shirt.

Samantha grinned and walked back into his bedroom to get dressed. She pulled on her own undergarments and the pair of red sweats that hung in his closet. She looked through a drawer in his dresser and took out a pair of freshly laundered socks. Surprisingly, the shoes in the closet fit her almost perfectly. Not sure of which t-shirt he was talking about, Samantha walked back into the kitchen.

Samantha: T-shirt please? (Approaching him in her bra)
Nathan: Who says you need one? (Kissed her cheek)

Samantha laughed and hugged him. Nathan pulled his own shirt off and gave it to her to wear. Samantha thanked him and sipped more of her coffee. When she was finished, Nathan took her by the hand and they headed out the door. They walked toward Nathan’s car and climbed in. Puzzled, Sam poked him.

Samantha: I thought we were running, not riding.
Nathan: I thought we’d go down to the shore. Is that alright?
Samantha: I love the shore.

The ride to the beach was peaceful. Sam rolled down her window and took a deep breath of salty ocean air. They parked at a meter and got out. For a few minutes, both runners stretched. On one occasion, Samantha pulled her leg all the way up to her head and held it there for a few seconds. Nathan stood behind her and held her leg steady for her.

Nathan: You don’t have any idea how amusing this is to watch. (He whispered in her ear)
Samantha: (Laughed and brought her leg down. Lifting the other the same way, then she did a fancy pirouette around him and then down into a plie)
Nathan: Wonderful. Maybe you could teach me some moves later.

When they were through warming up, both Samantha and Nathan started to jog lightly along the shoreline. Samantha loved to run, almost as much as she loved to dance. She liked the way it felt to push against the sand in a continuous motion. After about ten minutes, Nathan started to speed up a little. Sam looked over at him and winked. His body, firm and tan, twisted with every stride. She liked how the sweat ran from his hair down his face and onto his neck. The sun was now beaming down on them intensely, growing warmer with every minute that passed. Samantha noticed that only a few people were on the shore. With that in mind, she twisted the t-shirt she was wearing in a knot at her bosom. Pumping her arms furiously, she started to catch some wind and pass Nathan. She could hear him laugh at her side. Looking over, Sam saw that he was actually racing with her now. Determined not to lose, Samantha pushed herself as fast and hard as possible. They ran for a long time like this; one trying to out-do the other. Twenty minutes later, both runners were still making extreme time.

Samantha looked ahead and saw that the pier was only about a hundred yards away. She felt tired and her knees burned slightly but she was confident she would make it. Now only twenty yards away, both Nathan and Samantha pelted forward with their final burst of energy. Samantha ran as fast as she could but was only second to tag the leg of the large wooden structure. Though defeated, she still felt it was nice to lose to true competition.

Tired, Samantha threw herself down in the sand. She closed her eyes and breathed big, deep breaths. She felt Nathan plop down beside her. Grinning, she dropped her hand from her eyes and looked over at him. His firmly sculpted chest heaved up and down as he tried to catch his breath. Out of nowhere, he began to laugh. Tickled by this, Samantha joined in. Both of them stood up and brushed the sand off the back of their pants. Nathan stood there, looking at her with a devious grin.

Samantha: What? Don’t you dare throw me in the water!

Nathan ran into the water holding her. He waded in until he was up to his knees in water. Samantha held onto his neck and every time a wave threatened to splash her, she squeezed tighter in an attempt to hold herself up higher. Nathan rocked her like a baby in his arms. Samantha felt a sudden urge to embrace him like it was her last time. Nathan noted the seriousness in her demeanor and let go of her legs slowly. She dipped into the water with her arms still wrapped around his neck. The sea breeze blew tresses of her long hair into her eyes but Nathan swept them away. He continued to gaze into her eyes, to read what it was she felt so devoutly about. Samantha kissed his mouth lovingly.

They trudged back up the shore towards their starting point. Nathan held her hand and they lightly jogged the same way they came. It took them twice as long to return to the car because they took their time coming back. They talked about common things like the news and the upcoming weather. There were moments when it felt like the pair of them had been together all their lives. Samantha tried to ignore this feeling of such deep commitment but it haunted her heart. She clung to his arm almost like she was scared that if she let go, he’d never return. Nathan allowed her to do so and she knew that he must have felt the same way. After a few moments, Nathan began to slow down even more to a mere creep. Something was on his mind and Samantha could sense that it wasn’t anything she’d ever like to hear again.

Nathan: Sam, listen. About tonight...
Samantha: Please don’t say anything.
Nathan: Just let me finish, I’m home if you need someone to get you. Just call me. I don’t care what time it is. Alright?
Samantha: Fine but I’m going to be just fine. Don’t worry so...
Nathan: If anyone touches you, I’ll break their neck.
Samantha: That’s harsh. I’m not a stripper, Nathan. Don’t you trust me?
Nathan: I know. I do trust you. It’s just that you’re a beautiful woman with a sexy body that every man alive would want for himself.
Samantha: Well they’re not going to get anything from me. I wish you’d have a little more faith in me than that. I’ve lived in this body for seventeen years. I know how to work with what I was dealt. (Her temper rising)

Nathan quickened his pace to a full stride. Samantha did a two-step to catch up. They walked to the car and Samantha waited for him to unlock the door. She crawled in and buckled her seatbelt. They drove back to the apartment one last time. Once inside, Samantha changed into her clothes from the previous day. She grabbed her purse and shoes. Nathan sat on the couch silently and watched her gather up her belongings. When she thought she had everything, she turned to face him.

Samantha: I left your clothes in the bathroom. I’m going to go. Call me tomorrow on your break.

Nathan didn’t move from the sofa. When she reached the door, Samantha looked back one last time to see him staring out the window instead of watching her leave. Repulsed, Samantha exited by shutting the door in a near-slam manner.

Samantha King: Dancing Shoes

*VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED *
"Dancing Shoes"

Season 1: Episode 5

Starring
Queen-of-mean. as Samantha King

with...
Tylerisbold as Nathan Woodward

Guest Starring
John2_el_mejor as Emilio

The club where they were to go dancing was within walking distance. Keeping themselves a few paces apart, Samantha entered the bar first. An older big, black man in tight clothing that accentuated his large muscle stopped her, checking her ID. He eyed Sam carefully and she smiled, dazzling him with her beautifully, white teeth. She flirted a bit, hoping he’d let her in.

Samantha: You remind me of my dad! (She said loudly, the music in the club drowning her out)
Bouncer: (Laughs) Your very black dad, I’m guessing?
Samantha: (Laughed fully, flipping her bangs out of her eyes) He was a bouncer in his day.
Bouncer: (Handed her back her ID and strapped a neon colored bracelet on her right wrist) Alright, have a good night Claire.
Samantha: Thanks! (Nodded appreciatively, and when out of sight, checked the name on her fake ID)

Claire Watts. Nice, Samantha thought, putting the ID back into her wallet. She’d have to thank Sharon someday for such a neighborhood-friendly identity.

The music was loud and lights were flashing. Just the boom of the bass made Samantha dizzy. She had never been inside of an actual dance club before. It was something she could see herself doing every night of her life.

Nathan prodded her in the back and nodded towards the bar. She followed him and leaned against the counter. A bartender woman in tight clothing with long, dark curly hair leaned over to Nathan.

Bartender: Can I get you a drink?
Nathan: What do you want?
Samantha: Whatever you want.

Nathan turned back to the bartender and ordered two beers. He paid her and escorted Sam to a circular table next to a go-go cage where a scantily clad girl was dancing. Samantha watched her in amazement. Nathan observed her watching and laughed.

Nathan: Here. (Handed her a beer)
Samantha: Wow. From the commercials on television, you’d expect it to taste like heaven.
Nathan: Yeah, it takes some getting used to. The longer you drink, the better it gets.

They clinked glasses and took another swig. Samantha wasn’t sure if she would be able to empty hers. It was repulsive to have the foamy acid slide down her throat and hit her gut. Placing it back on the table, she continued to watch the dancer.

Samantha: I want to be a cage dancer.
Nathan: I’d love to see that. (He said laughing and grabbed her hand)

Samantha decided it was time to show this man just how good of a dancer she really was. She stood up and made to pull him onto the dance floor when another woman ran up behind him.

Woman: Hey handsome. Want to dance?

Samantha turned away, not sure if this was one of his acquaintances or not. Instead of interfering, she began to sway back and forth, getting into the rhythm of the music. It wasn’t long before she made her way into the crowd and began dancing along with the flow of everyone else. She glanced over her shoulder to look at Nathan. He had taken his partner’s hand and was leading her towards Sam. Before long, the woman was grinding up against Nathan, her hands in his hair. Samantha didn’t like the way Nathan held her by the waist.

Instead of getting jealous, Sam focused on a young Latino man who was dancing close to her. She turned to him and smiled. Without invitation, the man pulled her close and pressed against her as they danced. Although it made her uncomfortable having the stranger so close to her body, she thought that this was what Nathan wanted and continued to move up and down, turning around and shaking her backside into the man’s groin while waving her arms in the air. The man spun her around in circles and ran his fingers through her messy bangs. He laughed a couple of times, revealing a set of pearly white teeth. Samantha grabbed hold of his hands and put them behind her back. It wasn’t until the next song started that she looked around to find Nathan. Breathless, she couldn’t see him anywhere.

Man: Looking for someone?
Samantha: Thanks for the dance...(Started to walk away)
Man: How about another?
Samantha: Oh, well. I’m looking for someone.
Man: Your boyfriend?
Samantha: Um…no. Just a friend.
Man: I’m Emilio. (Shaking her hand)
Samantha: Uh, Claire. (She smiling falsely)

Out of the corner of her eye, she caught a glimpse of Nathan. She turned her head to watch him. Unconcerned with the man at her side, she frowned at the sight. The scene she witnessed was intense. The dark-haired woman Nathan was dancing with had her leg up on him and her arms wrapped around his neck. Nathan didn’t look concerned with anything except sexing his partner on the dance floor. Samantha felt her insides squirm as she watched him place his hand in her left back pocket. The look on his face was deep and interested. His eyes remained closed as the girl danced against him. Unexpectedly, Nathan looked up and saw Sam watching him. He pulled his hand out of her jeans and touched the girl on the leg. She drew back a little as Nathan whispered something in her ear. She nodded and continued dancing with another man as Nathan pushed his way through the crowd to reach Sam. Not sure how she felt about what she saw, Samantha turned away and stared into her partner’s eyes.

Samantha: Wow. It’s hot in here.
Emilio: I saw.
Samantha: Sorry.
Emilio: Who is that guy? Your boyfriend?
Samantha: I don’t know. (Her face growing hotter)
Emilio: It’s just dancing Claire. I couldn’t help but overhear you earlier. You’re interested in cage dancing?
Samantha: Yeah, actually I am. Why?
Emilio: I’m the manager of this club. Dance manager actually. You’ve got some nice moves and a good body. Interested in dancing for us?
Samantha: I’d love to! Wow, really?
Emilio: How old are you?
Samantha: Umm....Twenty-two.
Emilio: Great. Fifteen bucks an hour at the age of twenty-two. Not bad, huh? Now listen. We’ll give you a run tomorrow night. Get here around eight. We’ve got plenty of costumes for you to wear so don’t sweat it.
Nathan: (Finally reached them and tapped Sam) Hey.
Samantha: Hi. (She said simply)
Nathan: (Turned to Emilio and shook his hand) How’s it going man?
Emilio: Fabulous. So, tomorrow Claire? (He brushed Nathan off and reassured Sam and walked away)

Samantha headed towards the door with Nathan at her heels. Once they were outside and across the street from the club, Samantha finally spoke to Nathan.

Samantha: You can’t do this to me.
Nathan: Sam…
Samantha: No, I will not be treated like I am being unreasonable. What you did in there was horrible. It was abusive and insensitive! (Tears threatening to fall from her eyelashes)
Nathan: I know Samantha but what about that guy? Claire? And tomorrow?
Samantha: (Hurried back towards his apartment) Claire Watts. It’s the name on my ID.
Nathan: Ok, Claire, what about tomorrow?
Samantha: I’m going to dance.
Nathan: Dance?
Samantha: That’s what I said.
Nathan: Cage dancing?
Samantha: Yes Nathan. I’m a go-go dancer now.
Nathan: You don’t have to do this. If you’re punishing me, fine but you’re only seventeen. You can’t do this to yourself.
Samantha: A thirty-eight-year-old man can get into my pants but I can’t dance in a cage?
Nathan: Now you’re being unreasonable. I just don’t want every drunken man in the city looking at your body, okay?

Samantha took a moment to consider this but blew it off completely. Double standards were her way of life. She could pursue a relationship with a man twenty years her senior, yet she couldn’t play dress up and dance for fun?

Samantha: Listen, men look at me regardless of what I’m doing or wearing. I can take care of myself. Dancing is what I do, Nate. Why not get paid?
Nathan: Fine Sam. (He put his arm around her and held her close as they entered the elevator and walked back to his apartment)

Samantha didn’t feel like everything was fine. Nathan had turned the whole conversation around to make it seem like Samantha was the one who had dry-humped some stranger at a club. She sat on his sofa and sighed. Nathan fumbled around in the kitchen for a few minutes.

Nathan: Are you hungry?
Samantha: Yeah. (She walked over to the breakfast counter)
Nathan: Well, what do you want to eat?
Samantha: I really don’t care. I’m a cow, I can eat anything.
Nathan: Mind if I just whip up an omelet?
Samantha: Not at all.
Nathan: What do you want on it?
Samantha: Cheese. Onions. Mushrooms. Tomatoes, I don’t care! (She laughed)
Nathan: Cheese, onions, mushrooms, and sausage: sound tasty?
Samantha: Wonderful. (She walked around the counter to help him)
Nathan: (Stopped her and hugged her sweetly) I’m sorry you had to see everything you did tonight.
Samantha: We’ve only known each other for two days and we connected so instantly. What I saw tonight scared me. You looked so happy with that woman. I didn’t know if you felt the same about her.
Nathan: I’ve never met anyone and bonded as instantly as I have with you. What we have is one in a million,” He said, holding her head in his hands. Samantha nodded.
Samantha: I know. I feel the same. I’ve fallen so hard so fast that it hurt to watch her with you, holding you and touching you. I couldn’t deal with it. I can’t deal with it. I saw the expression on your face.
Nathan: It was nothing, Sam. Oh my god, I’m so sorry. (His voice getting slightly higher at the end of his sentence)

It scared the living hell out of her to witness such strong emotion coming from someone who cared so deeply about her in such a confined space of time. Samantha put a hand to her face and heaved a deep breath.

Samantha: We can’t do this. I can’t cry every time I see you. Takes the fun out of being with you. (She said, smiling through moist eyes)
Nathan: (Returned the gesture and laughed softly. He kissed her glistening eyelashes and her temples) You’re beautiful when you cry.

It smelled like Christmas to Samantha when he served them each half an omelet. Starving, she dove right in while Nathan searched through the fridge for something to drink. Sam heard glasses clinking.

Samantha: That better not be another beer.
Nathan: Nah, something better. (He produced two wine glasses and a large green bottle of crimson liquid)
Samantha: Are you trying to intoxicate me?
Nathan: No, not at all. We’re celebrating!
Samantha: For what?
Nathan: Making up for our first fight of course!
Samantha: You are so charming.

They ate their dinner together, talking and laughing. Samantha felt so at peace just eating with him that she never wanted dinner to end. It was during this time they both found out a considerable number of things about the opposite.

Nathan: You said you’re a dancer?
Samantha: Yeah, since I was four. I’m an accredited professional ballerina actually.
Nathan: Well, now I know where your flexibility comes from.
Samantha: You look like an athlete yourself. You’re a runner, aren’t you?
Nathan: Track and field, both high school and college.
Samantha: What’s your last name?” She asked when he opened his mouth to speak. She touched her mouth, excusing herself for interrupting him.
Nathan: I was wondering the same. Sorry I didn’t ask earlier. It’s Woodward. Yourself?
Samantha: King, Samantha King. (She wondered how her name would look with Woodward attached. She dreamily sighed and let her mind wander in a girlish moment. Samantha Woodward)
Nathan: Do you like it?
Samantha: (Snapped back to reality quickly) Umm...what?
Nathan: I said, did you like it? The food.
Samantha: Oh, yes. Thank you. It was just what I needed. (Handed him her plate)

Nathan rinsed the dishes and put them in the dishwasher. He leaned against the fridge and whistled softly. Samantha stretched in her seat and waited for him to do something. Finally, she stood up.

Samantha: It’s nearly eleven o’clock at night. Do you have work tomorrow?
Nathan: No, I never work on Sundays. I’m a Monday through Saturday kind of man.
Samantha: Any plans for tonight?
Nathan: Nope, can’t think of anything. (He teased her)

Samantha shrugged and walked into the living room. She stretched out across his soft, green sofa and sighed. Nathan followed, his hands in his pockets. Samantha reached for the remote and turned the television on. Nathan tapped her feet and Samantha budged so he could sit with her. She replaced her feet across his lap. As she flipped through the channels, Nathan slipped off her heels and began to massage her tired feet. Samantha giggled and poked him in the arm. Thoroughly enjoying herself, she continued flipping channels until she came across a scary movie. For this, Nathan stopped rubbing her and watched the screen. It was a violent slasher flick and every time someone was brutally murdered on TV, Samantha jumped slightly. It came to a part when Samantha didn’t think she could watch anymore and she quickly curled up next to Nathan and rested her head on his chest. He scratched her head behind her ear slyly, scaring her and causing her to jump again. Samantha laughed and hit him on the chest lightly.

Samantha: Don’t do that!
Nahtan: Boo! (Said loudly and tickled Sam furiously in the ribs)
Samantha: What? I’m beautiful when I’m scared too?

Nathan nodded and bent down to kiss her. Samantha grabbed hold of his head and kissed him all over his face. She stuck her hand on the inside of his shirt, touching his warm stomach. Nathan pulled the clip out of her long hair. He put his hands on either side of her head and wriggled his fingers. It felt great to take her hair down. Her chest heaved up and down uncontrollably and she could feel her body gravitating towards his. She closed her eyes and kissed him, wanting nothing more than to make him feel as intensely as she did. As he did earlier, Nathan scooped her up and carried her away into his bedroom, not even bothering to turn off the television.