A Narrow Escape

The sun shone gloriously, down on Smithfield Close Estate. Another beautiful day I thought.
Another busy day in Ealing.
Rap on my kitchen window.
Turning from the kettle, I waved.
“Morning Honey, lovely day!”
“Hello gorgeous! You’re running late as usual I see!” I laughed.
“As bloody always! See you about seven? Steak, chips and salad ok?” he replied hurriedly,
“Delicious. I’ll bring the plonk. Watch where you’re going!” I grinned.
And he was gone in a flurry and whistle on the wind.
I had to smile. I’d known Justin for nearly a year now, and we’d started dating a month or so ago, on a casual basis. It was working out well although, he had not initiated the first move to kiss, it had been me, but I assumed he was pretty shy, or too damn polite. Most men would have tried to undress me on the first date, so it was a pleasant change to know he respected me enough to wait. Wonder what he is waiting for then, I mused.
He was handsome in a settled sort of way, or rather; he grew on me over time, with his thick dark hair and blue laughing eyes. He wasn’t the rough and rugged type I would usually go for at all, but it made a change that’s for sure! He seemed much of a loner before our first date. I rarely heard him talk of entertaining visitors, or going out with friends, and certainly no home made girlfriends seem to have resided in any shape or form, from what I could gather. The Quiet type.
Still as I said, made a change and one I found myself falling into comfortably.
I felt safe with Justin, he didn’t seem the type to stamp all over your feelings, muck you around, or fuck your brains out and be off like a certain amount of men I had fallen into that trap with.
No, Justin was considerate and kind. I was a lucky girl.
He lived two minutes away, around the corner on our estate, in number eight, and after six months of “mornings” walking past on his way to work, he would often stop by for a cuppa on the way home. I enjoyed the company. His stories of home, back in Cambridge, were hysterical, and from there he just became a fixture, until the first date a few weeks ago.
Tonight I planned seduction. Big time!
It was time to progress this relationship into something solid. I had been invited to his flat, which was a first, and was curious after all this time to see how he lived. Nosy, I suppose, if I was honest. I was more than ready to take things further, but was rather apprehensive he was not. Can only give off all the right signals, I thought, seeing in my eye the red sexy underwear I had purchased a few days before in La Senza. Cost a damn arm and leg, but hey, would be worth it.
I really was growing to like him a lot, could see a future there for us in the distance. Mum always complained it was about time I settled down and had babies. Now getting out of bed each day, I had a spring to my step, felt wanted, valued, and I liked it. I liked it a whole lot.
Must get to work myself, me and my daydreaming!
Laughing to myself I slammed the front door shut.
What a beautiful day!
Kick the door shut behind me, rush up the stairs. Dear God! Its nearly five fifteen already…..bath, hair, make up and change! I ran the bath, whipped off my clothes, chucking them in every direction, and climbed into the tepid bath. It had been a hot day. Scrubbing vigorously, I pondered what to wear……classy? Sexy? Or casual? Fuck! I hate rushing! I so want tonight to be absolutely perfect!
Standing up, I caught my reflection in the mirror. Grabbing a towel I rubbed myself down.
Thank God I have been blessed with a good figure; the red was going to be a hit.
I ran into my bedroom. Oh boy! What a dump! Thank god we’re at his!
Where’s the body oil? Christ….I’ve got to tidy up this room.
Rummaging under bundles of clothes I found my favourite oil. Made me smell delicious. I’m beaming!
Okay…..jeans?? Hmmmmmmm, yes, and a cute little top.
Opening my drawer I pulled out a little black strappy number, perfect!
Make up! I studied my face in the mirror of my dressing table, not a bad face, large green eyes, thick lashes, blonde, streaked hair and good bone structure, inherited from dear Mummy. Can’t complain! I threw the towel on the floor.
Hair! Where’s the damn hairdryer?
I searched and finally found it hidden under more clothes lying in the wicker chair.
Naked, I sat down on the stool.
Five twenty five.
Blowing away, I had time to think about Justin some more.
He really was so cute. Texting me when I was on lunch, telling me he couldn’t wait to see me tonight, and how it was going to be a great evening, how much he really liked me and loved my company, and how happy he was these days! At last, he’s decided to take things further too. Can you imagine how embarrassing it would have been if he had refused my advances? Didn’t seem likely now!
Five thirty five.
I could actually feel my heart fluttering from anticipation. Not nerves, surely?!
Hair dry. Hurry!
Red, sexy lingerie, jeans, and black,strappy top.
Done.
Ran downstairs. Five forty five.
I lit a cigarette and inhaled deeply.
Sitting on the sofa I pulled on my high heeled black boots.
Five fifty.
I turned the television on, more for company. In the kitchen, I found my plush, red lipstick and applied to my generous lips. Looking in the mirror I felt pretty confident I looked good.
Stubbed my cigarette out. Spray of perfume.Thank god for Stella McMcartney.
Check the wine is by the door.
Right.....time to stroll around the corner!
Five fifty nine.
Walking across the sitting room to turn the television off, I stood still. I stopped breathing.
I stared at the screen, shook my head at the photograph being displayed. Surreal. A hot sweat broke out, running through my body, the urge to wet myself was strong. Just couldn’t be. Must be some mistake.
Without even knowing I sank to the floor.
My knee's had simply buckled.
It was hours before I got up.

“Tonight on the six o clock news, a 35 year old man has been arrested for the murder of 4 women found mutilated, and hidden in the walls of his flat. Justin Winton of Smithfield Close Estate, Ealing, was apprehended and detained earlier today. The discovery was made when……………….”