Dont Play Games With Me
I was standing at the bar, leaning slightly against its polished surface. My finger traced the rim of a glass of sparkling water, and now and again, I cast a glance over the crowd. Chaos, as usual, reigned in the club: pounding bass that seemed to shake the very air, streaks of coloured lights slicing through the dimness, bursts of laughter and shouts echoing above the throb of music. In truth, it all seemed to flow around me as though I were invisible. I didnt fit in herelike Id landed on a strange planet where everyone spoke an alien tongue and played by rules that made no sense to me.
My only oasis of calm was that glass. Sparkling waterabout the only thing I could stomach in places like this. Ive never had much taste for hard spirits, and those sugary cocktails on offer always felt too cloying, too artificial.
So, our hero! came a familiar voice at my side.
I turned and spotted Daniel, who seemed to have materialised out of thin air, all flushed cheeks and gleaming, excited eyes. His broad grin nearly blinded me in the flickering club lights.
Not bored, are you? Daniel leaned in, lounging against the bar next to me.
Well, actually, I am a bit bored, I admitted dryly. You know all this isnt my cup of tea.
Oh, dont be like that! Daniel thumped me on the shoulder, nearly knocking over my glass in the process. Come on, we had to practically drag you out tonight. Just loosen up for once. What’s the worst that could happen?
Im perfectly relaxed, I said evenly, nodding to my drink. No booze, no dancing. Im just fine.
Youre so stubborn! Daniel laughed, but his amusement was good-natured, not mocking. Alright, let me introduce you to someone. Trust me, youll like her.
He didnt wait for my reply, just beckoned toward the dancefloor. I turned and saw a woman weaving her way toward us with a self-assured gait, the kind that made everyone glance her way whether they meant to or not. Her bright pink dress shimmered under the lights; her hair and makeup were flawless, as if shed just stepped out of a photo shoot. She moved with the unselfconscious ease of someone entirely at home in this world.
This is Chloe, Daniel said enthusiastically, gently nudging her closer. And this is Henry, my best mate.
Chloe reacted instantly, her face lighting up with a dazzling smile. She offered her hand and, under the club lights, her pearlescent manicure caught the glow.
Lovely to meet you! Her voice rang clear and friendly. Daniel’s told me all sorts about yousays youre full of interesting ideas.
I inclined my head politely, meeting her handshake, which was startlingly warm and alive compared to my reserved greeting.
Likewise, I replied, without much zest. I wasnt here looking to meet new peopleIm very happily married to the best woman I know.
Chloe didnt seem to notice my restrained manner. She cast a glance back at the undulating crowd, then looked at me with a playful glint in her eye.
Not a dancer? she asked, tilting her head. Come on, the music’s brilliant tonight! One dance will cheer you right up.
I let out the faintest sigh but kept my expression calm. I was used to this sort of persistent invitationit came with the territory here.
Thanks, but I dont dance, I said politely but firmly, making sure not to sound rude.
Oh, go on! Chloe wasnt one to give up so easily. Her hand rested lightly on my elbow, and I felt a gentle pressure from her fingertips. Just one dance, and Ill leave you to it. I promise. Its just a bit of fun, nothing deep.
A wave of irritation crept over me. I didnt like being pushed into things, especially something as personal as whether I danced or not. My patience, usually quite steady, was starting to crack.
I said no, I replied, still calm but now unmistakably resolute, gently freeing her hand from my arm. Sorry, but I need to step outside for a moment.
Without waiting for an answer, I nodded to Danielhe was watching with a hint of puzzlementand made my way toward the exit. I craved fresh air and a moments quiet away from the relentless hubbub and pressuring strangers.
I picked my way through the crowd, careful not to bump the dancers. The music still hammered on, but as I neared the door, it faded to a dull throb. I pushed out onto the balcony and was met with a rush of cool, night air. Here, away from the lights and clamour, I could finally breathe.
I strolled over to the railing. London unfolded before me, the city scattered with tiny glittering lightslamplight, windows, the odd car headlightsagainst the dark. It was comforting, almost homely; a far cry from the turmoil inside the club.
My mind wandered to Ellie. I pictured her at home in our flat, perhaps curled up in her favourite armchair with a book, or pottering in the kitchen putting something on for my return. The thought of her always filled me with warmth. Compared to the empty fuss of the club, the memory of her felt solid and real.
For several minutes, I lingered, breathing in the peace, until I heard the door shut quietly behind me. Turning, I saw Chloe follow me onto the balcony, closing the door softly behind her.
She came up almost beside me, just close enough to brush my personal space, but not unpleasantly so. There was a tentative curiosity in her manner rather than anything pushy as she leaned on the railing next to me and looked into my eyes.
Are you always this serious? she asked, her tone more gentle than before.
I shrugged, not taking my eyes off the cityscape.
No. I just dont enjoy noisy parties. Theyre not my scene.
I get that, Chloe replied, unexpectedly soft-spoken now. I dont really like them much either. My friends dragged me outsaid thered be an interesting bloke here.
I looked at her with a twinge of surprise. In the muted light, her eyes were warmer and her smile seemed less staged, more sincere.
So youre not here by choice, either? I raised an eyebrow.
To some extent, she said with a little shrug, fiddling with the edge of her dress. You know, sometimes its easier to go along with things than to explain why you dont want to. But, even so she hesitated, searching for the words, I do like you. Youre different. Not like those she gestured vaguely at the dance floor beyond the glass, where shadowy figures bobbed and spun.
I considered her words carefully, wanting to respond without hurting her feelings but equally unwilling to be misunderstood. Ellies image flickered in my mind: her gentle smile, her gift for listening, for finding joy in the smallest things. That thought gave me clarity.
I appreciate your honesty, I said at last, focusing on the city lights. But Im married, and my wife is the person I want to be with. I have no interest in anyone else.
Chloe didnt back away. Instead, she edged even closer, almost touching my shoulder. I could feel her breath against my cheek, and I tensed involuntarily, but stood my ground.
So what if youre married? she said, more quietly now, but with a stubborn insistence. It doesnt mean you cant get to know someone interesting. You never know
I turned to face her. Whats with this girl? Id told her flat-out that I wasnt interested, yet she simply wouldnt take the hint.
Nothings going to happen, I replied, voice calm but conclusive. I love my wife. Im not out looking for anything on the side. Its not just talkits a matter of principle.
Chloe paused for a split second, searching my face for any hint of doubt. Finding none, she pressed on, her smile now somewhat strained yet still pleasant.
Oh, come on, she tilted her head as if trying to see me from a new angle. Youre young, good-looking, well-off. Men like you shouldnt be cooped up at home. Just give me one chance? One evening, a drinkif youre not interested, Ill back off. Promise.
She gripped my hand now, firmeralmost afraid Id vanish. Her touch was warm, but I felt nothing in return. I gently yet firmly pulled my hand free.
I appreciate your attention, I said evenly. But my answer wont change. Im happy in my marriage. That really means a lot to me.
Alright, I get the message, she said, head rising as if bracing herself. But youre not like those other blokes in therewed have been a great couple.
Chloe, I said in a level, good-natured tone, Ive explained myself. Im not interested. Please respect that.
For a fleeting moment, I noticed a shadow of irritation cross her face, but she quickly mastered herself, settling her smile into place, though it no longer seemed quite so genuine.
You just havent met someone who could truly interest you yet, she tried, her voice lighter than her expression. Let me show you, I could be that woman. Sometimes people dont realise theyre passing up happiness until its staring them in the face.
I dont need convincing, I replied, my patience worn thin. I have everything I needand its not you.
Chloe froze, visibly not anticipating such bluntness. Her cheerful front fell; for an instant, her eyes flared with real angerso fast it was almost invisible. But she quickly recovered.
Alright, fine, she said briskly. Sorry for pestering.
She turned on her heel and strode back inside, her pace purposeful, as if she wanted to put as much distance between us as possible.
I stayed on the balcony, taking in the bracing night air, feeling my tension dissolve. I thought again of Ellieher kind smile, her steady gaze, the gentle warmth she brought to our life together. She was almost certainly at home waiting for me, perhaps pottering in the kitchen, maybe checking the clock and half-listening for my key in the door.
I gazed out at the city, the glowing lights, the gentle hum. All of it felt suddenly far away and irrelevant. I didnt want to linger herecaught between pounding noise, flashing lights, and other peoples expectations. I wanted to go home. Where there were neither games, nor hints, nor contests for my attention, but honest, straightforward warmth.
Casting one final glance at the city, I made for the exit. Out beyond the noise and restless energy, my real world waited for me
***************************
The next day, to my surprise, I found out Chloe hadnt finished her little game on the balcony after all. Id assumed after such a straight, unequivocal rejection, thatd be the end of it. How wrong I was.
The first sign was a message pinging into my phone. I barely noticed it at first. When I looked, I knew right away who it was: Hey, how are you? The message was innocuous, no pushinessjust a breezy greeting, making it seem as if nothing odd had happened last night.
I paused, considering my reply. I didnt want to be brusque, but nor was I about to give her hope. I replied simply: All good, thank you. Please dont contact me again. I hit send and put my phone away, hoping that would finally be the end of it.
But Chloe wasnt put off. The messages kept comingsometimes asking how my day was, sometimes sending random news links. Gradually, she started dropping hints: You know, sometimes fate gives you a second chancemaybe you should take it? I read these with mounting frustration and eventually stopped replying, blocking her number for good measure.
A week passed and Chloes persistence seemed to fade. I finally let myself believe it was overuntil I bumped into her near the office one evening after work. I mentally tallied what I needed to pick up for dinner, then heard her familiar voice.
Hello, Henry! She stood there, clearly waiting, face split into an exaggeratedly sunny grin. What a surprise! I was just out for a walk. Fancy a coffee? Just fifteen minutes, promise!
I slowed but didnt stop. It was obvious this coincidence was planned. Here we go again…
Im in a hurry, I said quietly, trying to sidestep her and avoid kicking up another scene.
Oh, just a few minutes! Chloe darted in front of me, catching my sleeve and clutching tighter than strictly necessary. I really need to talk to you. I think you dont quite get
I stopped, turning to look her dead in the eyescalm, but firm. I realised there was no sense in mincing words anymore. I had to be absolutely clear.
Chloe, I said flatly, Ive already said everything I have to say. Im happily married. I need no one else. Frankly, your persistence is just annoying. Please leave me alone.
I paused, to let the words sink in, before politely but firmly freeing my sleeve from her grasp.
Chloe froze and, this time, didnt even try to conceal her feelingshurt and angry, maybe even vengeful.
Youll regret this, she spat.
For a moment, her face distorted with fury, but then she regained her composure, drew herself up, and replied icily:
You just dont know what youre missing.
I know exactly what I have, I answered, calm and certain. And Im not missing anything.
With that, I turned and walked away. I didnt look back, but I could feel her gaze burning into me. In that moment, I hopedreally hopedthis would be the end of it. But of course, it was only the beginning.
Chloes messages started again on different numbers, sometimes several times a day, tactically switching between small talk and thinly-veiled suggestions, as if testing how long Id hold out. Sometimes theyd pop up at the worst moments: early mornings as I was heading to work, or late at night, just as I was climbing into bed beside Ellie. I never repliedinstead, I just kept blocking the numbers.
Then she crossed a line. One day, Ellie called me at work, a note of concern in her voice.
I had a strange phone call, she began, sounding calm but shaken. A woman claimed to be your colleague. She said youre seeing someone. But I could tell she was lying. Her voice was oddly invested.
I closed my eyes for a second to keep my temper in check, thanked Ellie for telling me immediately, and promised to deal with it. That evening, I resolved: enough was enough.
Within days, I saw Chloe againthis time outside our own flat. She was standing by the entrance, pretending to be out for a walk. As I approached, she treated me to a forced smile.
Oh, hi! Just enjoying the fresh air, she said breezily.
No more playing nice. I stopped a couple of steps from her, met her gaze, and cut straight to the chase:
Thats it. Im asking youstop contacting me or my wife. If you dont, Ill take steps.
Chloe gawked at me, evidently not believing her ears. Then her lips slanted into a smirk.
What steps? she asked, head tilted. Going to take me to court for harassment?
Her tone was scornful, as if my words were an empty threat. But I didnt bother explaining or debating. I let a cold determination fill my gaze and replied:
You dont want to find out.
For a moment, the silence lingered. Something changed in her eyesfinally, a glimmer of realisation. She didnt smile now. I didnt wait for a reply, just walked inside, resolved to protect my family no matter what.
But Chloe wasnt scared off. Honestly, I half expected her to give up after thatbut she remained as persistent as ever. Two days later, Daniel rang. His voice was tense, unlike his usual carefree self, as if even he didnt quite believe what he was about to say.
Listen, mate theres a situation, Daniel began, faltering. Chloes told people you harassed her. She says shes going to report you to the police.
For a second, I just stared. How could she? What did she expect to gain? Id long got in the habit of saving all correspondenceand would have no trouble proving her claims were fabricated.
Let her, I said, keeping my tone casual and almost bored. Ive recorded every chat we had. Its obvious from the evidence who was chasing whom.
Daniel went silent a moment, seeming to process this.
Youre serious? he managed eventually, sounding unconvinced.
Absolutely. And one more thing: if you or the others keep enabling her, were done. No more friendship. I know where she got my number, Ellies, our address, our work details
Sorry mate, we meant well, Daniel muttered after a pause. Since you’ve been with Ellie, youve been a real stay-at-home. We just thought Chloe would get you back among us. But we wont interfere again, I promise.
That same day, I took action. I selected a snippet from one of the recordingsChloe pressing for a meeting, offering fun times, me politely but firmly refusing. I sent her the clip by message, along with a short note:
This is just the start. If you keep this up, Ill go to the police myself. Ill let them hear all your calls, including those conversations with Daniel and Mark about how to work me for money. Yes, its clear in the calls what the plan was.
I wasnt bluffing. I had phone logs and voice notes where Chloe and her friends discussed how to get my attention, what tactics to tryand the final incriminating attempt at blackmail. One of the lads even admitted it after realising quite how far it had gone.
Chloes reply came within the hour, short and sharp, brimming with thinly-veiled outrage:
You wouldnt dare.
I tapped out my answer immediately:
Try me.
No more messages followed. I never found out exactly what fallout took place on her end, but the tension started to ease. I didnt care about detailsonly that the ordeal was over and my family was out of danger.
About a week on, Daniel phoned again. This time, his voice was full of awkwardnesshe sounded almost ashamed.
Sorry, he began, stumbling. None of us thought Chloe would take things so far. She wont contact you again. Ive spoken to her myself. So have the others. Its all sorted.
I listened in silence, wanting to be sure he was serious, and that this wasnt just smoothing things over with no real change.
Good, I replied calmly. But I need a break from seeing you lot for a while. Right now, my priority is at home.
Daniel sighed. Understood.
That evening, I came home in excellent spirits. Ellie popped her head out and smiled, wrapping her arms around me wordlessly. She already knew it had sorted itself out and was genuinely relieved. She hated having to see those texts and endless missed calls.
We moved into the living room and settled on the sofa. Ellie reached for the remote and put on our favourite classical playlistgentle, unobtrusive music that filled the room with ease. I took her hand and squeezed. We sat that way for ages: just together, no words, no fuss.
All over now, I murmured, kissing her palm. No one will bother us again. I made sure.
Ellie looked at me, smiling in that calm, confident way.
I knew youd handle it, she replied softly. You always protect what you care for. You dont back down.
I met her gaze and, in that moment, it hit me all over again: everything I need is right here. In the warmth of her hand, in our quiet home, in the ease of our breaths together. Everything elsethe noise, gossip, the games of othershad finally faded into nothing.
Personal Lesson
Looking back, I realise nothing matters more than respectboth giving it and demanding it. Sometimes, to stand your ground is the only way to keep what matters safe. And as for games, some are simply not worth playingespecially when the real happiness is waiting for you at home.
