“Are you okay with that? Will you be able to help him and not get too attached?” her blue eyes studying me as she pulled back a strand of her blonde hair and tucked it behind her ear.
“I don’t know. We will just have to wait and see, I guess”
She nodded and sat next to me on the bed, “I sort of heard the conversation—I was in the kitchen—I didn’t mean to pry. But love, Kyle needs your help—you just have to be the bigger person and set aside any ill feelings for him. This could be tough—but you’re the bravest woman I know—whatever happens, never think that you don’t have anyone to speak to. I’m here for you, always.”
I gave her a hug and thanked her for all her support. She got up to leave me with my daunting thoughts.
It’ll be fine, convincing myself.
I was beyond exhausted as I made my way to the kitchen to make a sandwich for dinner.
I didn’t want to think anymore.
I’ll think about my problems tomorrow.
I slept like log, no dreams, no interference.
Eighteen
I was contemplating what to wear for my date with Blake when I received a text message.
Kyle Matthews. I’m here. I’ll see you tomorrow.
I sighed.
Way to go dampening my mood for my date tonight, Kyle!
My heart’s beating a little erratically against my chest. I’ve never been in this position where I have to deal with an ex and start seeing someone new. This is all so new to me and it’s driving me insane. Should I tell Blake? I really should. Sooner or later Lucy might mention it to both of the guys and I’ll be grilled for information. I knew back in the day they were all so curious about him and knowing how Lucy is, she’ll probably invite him over for dinner to bond with the guys. I cringed at the thought. God, please, no. That would be epic disaster. Blake and Kyle in the same room would be chaos.
Browsing through my closet, I chose an embroidered with black lace short cocktail dress and paired that with my classic red Prada gladiator platform heels. I artfully pinned my hair up minimizing eye shadow, heavy on mascara and heavy on my engine-red rouge lipstick. Spritzing my favorite perfume, my phone buzzed as if on cue. It was Blake letting me know that he’s downstairs waiting for me. Grabbing my purse, I left for downstairs to meet him.
Coming out of the elevator, I could see Blake leaning lazily against his Aston Martin in a sharp black suit against white dress shirt. He looks dashing, sexy and still blindingly sinful. I felt lightheaded all of a sudden. I came out of the building as I heard him whistle loudly, clearly praising my look.
Boy, how I’ve missed him. I forgot how he makes my heart peter-patter like crazy. I was breathless. I went over to him as he pulled my hand and twirled me around in full appraisal. I smiled like an idiot.
“Like it?”
“Like it? I love it, poppet! You look ravishing! That dress certainly had you in mind,” he said against my lips and kissed me tenderly. I melted. A whiff of his scent sent my body into a lustful frenzy.
“I’ve missed you, my sweet”
“Missed you too, Blake,” gazing at him, my emotions all over the place. I feel so much for him. Things I can’t explain. I swallowed hard.
“Come, I don’t want us to be late for our reservation”
He took me to OXO Tower Restaurant and Brasserie on South Bank that overlooked the River of Thames. It was al fresco since its still summer and I lavished the warm atmosphere around me. I’ve never been here before and the view was beautiful, even more so with the view sitting directly across me.
I grinned at him.
He smiled, “what would you want to drink? Champagne?”
“I think I’ll have watermelon martini tonight”
“I’ll order us a bottle of red as well,” he said as he browsed through the menu.
Our waiter came and got our orders. I let Blake decide what to order for my entrée and he happily obliged. Drinks in hand, I sipped an ample amount of my martini. I closed my eyes and savored the taste, it was glorious.
“You always close your eyes when you revel and relish something you like—food, alcohol, sex perhaps?” he murmured in a low husky voice of his.
I quickly opened my eyes, he was leaning against the chair, hand on the stem of his wine glass, his eyes burning.
Shit! He looks fascinating. Will I ever manage to get used to his dark beauty? I wish.
Clearing my throat, “Yes, savoring them makes you appreciate all the good things in life,” smiling coyly at his dark smoldering self.
“Yes, I definitely agree. How was your week? How was school? Any news?”
I swallowed slowly. Any news? That seemed a little loaded, “School’s good. I like my classes this semester. News? Let see—I’ll be modeling for Chad. He’s going to have a show in a couple of months.”
“Model? How?” he looked perplexed.
Okay… I know I’m not model material like the ones he’s used to, but at least have the decency to look pleased.
“His theme is Sensual Grunge. He’s hell-bent into letting me be his model. Go ask him.”
My voice small and a little hurt. His reaction hurt.
“Sensual Grunge?” he reiterated.
“Yeah, whatever” shrugging his annoying attitude.
He became quiet and after a few minutes passed, he’s mouth was still shut. Damn him! He always does this. It’s so uncomfortable. I looked around, glancing around the people milling around with friends laughing and drinking in one corner. Some chatted happily whilst eating their dinner. Everyone seemed to be having a great time except for this table. Biting my lip, I contemplated my news about Kyle. Since he’s already in a gloomy state, I might as well drop the bomb.
“Since we’re on the subject on news—I just learned yesterday that Kyle’s temporarily moving here for work,” I took a long mouthful sip of my martini.
“Kyle? Matthews? He’s here?” his reaction disbelieving.
“Yes, Kyle is here. He just flew in today.”
“Bollocks! I can’t believe this! This night keeps getting better and better!” he said as he raked his hand through his hair. I didn’t get the chance to respond because our food was laid out on the table. Blake seemed eager to ignore me. His brows furrowed as he worked on his meal. What was he thinking? He looked like he was working something out, but wouldn’t voice anything to me. It’s so frustrating!
I had a hard time trying not to choke on my meal. His foreboding attitude didn’t put me at ease and when the waiter came to clear out our dishes and offered if we wanted dessert, he immediately declined, stating clearly that we were in a hurry.