Gilded Wings

With love, to my beautiful children and wonderful fiancé, for their patience whilst Mummy writes her first Novel.

Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Epilogue

Prologue

She had fallen. Fallen into the depths of despair.

My beautiful Angel’s wings had been shattered into a thousand beautiful fragmented shards.

I would protect her. I would repair her wings piece by piece, until finally she would be free to soar again.

Chapter 1

Apprehension paralyzed me. His gentle finger softly caressed my inner thigh. Methodically stroking further along towards my… I tensed instantly at his intimate attempt. My heart began to race. Quickening at every slight movement. Yearning to enjoy this sensation. The warmth of his warm slender fingers touching me everywhere. The feeling of intimacy between myself and the man I had loved for a little over three years. Wanting to lusting and desire; yet my head wanted other things. It wouldn’t surrender the nagging conclusion that this felt anything other than wrong. My mind refused to relinquish my body. Irrational logic denying myself from indulging. Desire was a menial distant memory, pushed to the farthest quarters of my mind. Inexplicable doubt reared its ugly head at our impending intimacy. Every time. I was furious with myself and my body. The irrational refusal of my libido. I couldn’t stop thinking. Analyzing. Over thinking. I knew what was coming and a lump hit my throat.

“What is wrong with you?” he snapped. “Why won’t you let me touch you?”

The desperation of Henry needing to know why was all over his face. His eyes looked saddened, confused yet fiercely dark. I didn’t want to end up in an argument with him. I didn’t want to confirm to him the lack of desire I felt for him. I peered past him, not knowing what else to do. Not wanting to say the wrong thing. My mouth only ever seemed to make a situation worse. Any situation. I focused through the darkness of our bedroom and my eyes fixed to the ambient light of the moon. It looked so beautiful gleaming through our sash window, serene and tranquil against the midnight sky. An involuntary tear fell, rolling down my cheek onto my slightly parted lips. The salty taste only spurring on more tears. My heart. My head. My soul ached. It ached for the pain I knew I was inflicting on Henry. The hurt and confusion I knew he was writhed with. And selfishly for the inexplicable pain I was feeling.

I wanted to speak. I wanted to tell him I loved him, but my words stayed sombre, circling repetitively around in my head like a merry-go round that would not stop. My head was filled with a mass of unanswered questions. Confusion consumed me.

His beautiful green eyes gazed into mine. He looked lost and I had caused it. All of it. I shrugged my shoulders in an attempt to ease my silence, to try and make it more bearable. Gently his soft thumb reached up to wipe away the tears from my flushed skin. His lips silently pressed upon my forehead before he rolled onto his side to drift asleep.

I lay back in bed sinking my head into my soft warm pillow. Wrapping the duvet around me hoping it would give me the reassurance and comfort I needed. I was deflated, wishing myself to stop pushing away the most perfect man in my life.

I stared into the bleak darkness for what seemed like an eternity. I couldn’t help but watch him sleep thinking how blessed I was to have such perfection lying next to me. He wanted to spend his life with me. He had chosen me, little old me. I needed to sort this out, but firstly I need to find out what this was.

* * *

“Morning beautiful.” I awoke to his charming smile beaming down at me. The touch of his hand brushing the side of my face was unnecessarily kind. Considering the lack of enthusiasm I showed for his touch last night. He placed a light but adoring kiss upon my lips. As he leaned back I couldn’t help but smile.

“I’m sorry” I whispered. I couldn’t bare to look at him and rekindle the emotional pain from last night.

“It’s ok, maybe another night,” he smirked and climbed out of bed.

“Where are you going?” I asked eagerly as I reached across to the clock resting on my side table. 5.30am. My God. 5.30am, no one is meant to see this time of day. It was a Saturday and I was already bitterly unimpressed that I had to meet Henrys Mother for our brunch date. An additional two hours of sleep were well required if I wished to have any attempt at being coherent for her. That woman was positively abhorrent.

“I need to collect something,” he said with a wry grin. He tapped his nose and winked as he slipped on his faded Levi’s. They hung perfectly off of his amazingly ripped physique. I couldn’t help but admire. He was mine, all mine. Right at that moment my self-conscience felt the need to interrupt my thoughts with a ‘your managing to fuck it up pretty well though’. I shook my head trying to release the iniquitous thought.

I was going make this right. I will resolve these issues I have and Henry and I will be happy. That seemed practical enough. It had to be. Henry is all I know. What would I do without him? Who would I be without him? That was the more poignant question. Henry slid on his top and pecked me on the head.

“I won’t be long baby”.

I closed my eyes trying desperately to drift in to a peaceful sleep again. After fifteen minutes of tossing and turning I had surcome to the realization that I was not going to evoke any sleep now. I sat up in bed and flicked on the laptop to check my emails. Whilst the laptop was starting up I started to ponder what had actually happened last night. Again.

How could I do it again? What the hell is wrong with me? I need to change. Starting from now. I knew I had to or I was going to lose the best thing in my life.

I ran the hot tap to the shower and slid off my silk nightdress. It slid over my breasts, gliding past my hips, dropping to the floor. I stepped into the steaming hot shower and tried to wash away last night’s encounter from my mind.

My daze of tranquillity was cut short by a repetitive knocking at the door. I shut off the shower. Grabbing my towel I wrapped it around my dripping wet body. I ran downstairs and opened the front door.

“EVIE!!!” she practically screamed with excitement. I couldn’t hold the grin from my face. Lucy had decided to spread her wings and go globetrotting. For the past twelve months I was impatiently waiting for the impending day that she flew back. It had been far too long without my best friend. I was giddy with excitement at her return.

“Your back! When did you get back? I wasn’t expecting you until tomorrow!” Lucy flung her arms around me. I went to hug her back but resisted the urge, deciding against dropping my towel and standing on my doorstep butt naked for my elderly neighbours to see. It would be the hot topic of the street and I was not in the mindset to be the point of discussion.

“Hey Luce, give me a minute while I just throw some clothes on.” I pointed her in the direction of the living room while I ran upstairs.

Lucy and I had met in High school. She was flamboyant and confident. Her smile and personality was contagious. She could lift anyone’s spirits with her simple thoughtful analogies of any situation. Everyone loved Lucy. Girls tried to be her and boys wanted her. She was a picture of womanly precision. Her soft blonde curls of silk framed her golden tanned face. Her eyes were a shade of warm sienna framed by the longest eyelashes I had ever seen.

“Hurry Up Evie” she called from downstairs.

My mind jolted back to reality. I slipped into my favourite pair of skinny jeans, which I have been informed by Lucy are my ‘sexy ass jeans’ and pulled on a cream t shirt. Simple.

I flicked on the kettle and then Lucy looked at me with a wry grin on her face. “Go on then, give me all of the juicy details.” I half smirked and rolled my eyes. There was only one reason Lucy ever had that twinkle in her eyes. A man. In the past two years there had been Tod, Mark, Melvin (yes Melvin), Danny, Tristian, and most recently Sam. Sam was the ultimate love of her life. Lucy had always been so coy with her feelings, always leaving them before she had a chance to leave her. Her mother had been on her fourth marriage because of this Lucy didn’t see love the way in which we all dream it possible, carriages, flowers, hearts and kisses. No Lucy didn’t believe in that; not until she met Sam. Sam was charming, handsome but very, very conceited. He left her after cheating on her for two months with his assistant. Lucy slipped into a routine of cry, eat, sleep. This went on for weeks until she decided she had enough. Lucy’s answer to this? — Fly half way across the world by yourself for twelve months and ignore reality. So that is exactly what she did.

“He is amazing, oh Evie you should have been there, he is gorgeous, and well very fuckable, not that I have yet,” she backtracked, “but soon, very soon, I don’t know how much longer I can hold off from ripping his trousers from his sexy ass”.

I grimaced at the thought, “too much info Luce”. She giggled at me. “So what’s his name? Where did you meet him?”

“Well, it was so surreal, kinda like karma. I was in the hotel checking out and there he was in the queue for the coach to take us to the airport.” I could see her smile at the memory of first meeting him. She carried on, “So we were kinda making eyes at each other on the ride, but, there was no way I was making the first move. I am so over that. Anyways, I boarded the plane and there he was, sitting next to my seat. I must of triple checked the ticket for my seat number, it was mad.”

“So… what happened?”

“Well he introduced himself. He is in some band and lives in Clapham, can you believe it, we couldn’t be any closer if we wanted, so we shared a cab back and I crashed at his last night. Can you believe it! We just made out and slept together, all night, just SLEPT.” She accentuated every letter of slept with precise definition.

I loved seeing her happy. I just wish I felt a little more like she did. I wish I had that burning desire to pounce on Henry and make love the way we used too. My mind wandered to the stairs, the kitchen table, the…

“Soooo” Lucy said looking at me and interrupting my erotic thoughts. She was obviously fishing for gossip with me and Henry.

“We’re fine, he is good, working loads, you know, the usual I suppose” I replied hesitantly.

She looked concerned. She had seen it. My look of doubt. I myself doubted whether we were fine. She tilted her head to the side. Her face beautifully endearing.

“Oh Evie, why do you look so down? Talk to me.”

I looked at her and without hesitation I let the words leave my lips.

“I don’t know what I want anymore.” I had never admitted it out loud before, but I was confused and I was doubting our relationship. Logic told me I needed Henry but my heart urged me to reacquaint myself with reality and look at our relationship for what it was. I needed some sort of advice, or better still a slap round the face to wake me up from these incoherent thoughts. I hoped Lucy would be the one to shake me out of this rut. She was my subconscious. There were no lies between us. Ever.

“We haven’t, you know, had sex in two months.” I continued, “It’s not him, he, well, he tries, really tries, but, well I just, I just don’t want to”.

“Oh Evie, why didn’t you say something?” She looked at me with sincerity in her voice, pure concern for how I was feeling.

“I don’t know Luce, what was I meant to say? I don’t know what I’m feeling or why I’m feeling it, I just don’t know what to make of it.” I paused. “I love him Luce, I just don’t know if I’m you know, in love, I think I am, but… it’s just I don’t really want sex much.” Tears started pour. I couldn’t quite control myself. The overwhelming fear that I knew the inevitable and where these feeling would lead me scared me half to death. How could I not be in love with the vision of perfection that I had to call mine? Luce wrapped her arms around me and I sobbed a little harder.

“It will all be ok, I promise.” She whispered into my ear “is it because of…”. Then the realization that she knew she shouldn’t finish that sentence hit her and we just embraced. I did not want to bring up my past. Not now. Not ever.

“Do you want sex?” What kind of question was that? Obviously not if I wasn’t in the mood with Henry, surely?

“Well obviously not?”

“No Evie, it’s not obvious, do you still get turned on? Have you, you know had BOB out lately?”

I nearly spat out my tea, BOB, my good old battery operated boyfriend. Thinking about it, I had. Shit, I must be such a bitch. I chose to use BOB but not Henry.

“Um, well ah,” I stuttered.

Lucy cut me off with her hysterical fits of laughter. “Well at least you are not restricting yourself of an orgasm once in a while. God I don’t think I could go for more than a day without one.”

“Urgh, your such a man Luce. I don’t know, I don’t get it? Why don’t I want to with Henry then? It just feels so awkward and wrong when he touches me.”

“Perhaps you and Henry have some underlying issues?”

“I just feel lost Luce, I have no job and I can’t spend my days plodding around playing Suzy home-maker, it’s not me.” I sighed. “I have dreams, I have determination and I want to make something of my life for me. Not just to be labelled as Henry’s gold-digging girlfriend.”

“Have you told him this is how you feel?”

“Yes, he just feels it isn’t suitable for me to be working when he earns ‘a hefty fortune’, as he puts it.”

Lucy twisted her nose up at my mocking tone of Henry’s modest remark,

“Exactly”, I giggled. “How am I meant to try and be me when he wants’ me at home. In his eyes he is the man and I am the little woman that should not lift a finger”.

“Well just do something??”

“Believe me, I have tried. I took an interview for the role of PA to a CEO of Skylex Enterprises. I got offered the job!” A sense of pride warmed me. “It was a good wage, fab benefits. When I told Henry he went ballistic, telling me I would end up fucking my new boss just like I did with him.” I cringed at the memory of him speaking to me like that. Like I was a worthless piece of meat that dropped my panties for anyone. Anger started to boil inside of me and I could feel my face tensing.

“What a jack ass”, Lucy exclaimed.

“I know”.

Things were not always like this. I had been with Henry since I was 19. From the moment I met him I felt that spark, the electricity that pulsed through my system. Leaving my heart pounding against my chest. The flutter of butterflies in my stomach. He was the only man that had ever made me feel like that.

* * *

I had fallen into the Jewellery trade after dropping out of school at sixteen. I applied for a job at a small jeweller’s and worked as a sales assistant there full time for three years. I needed to earn money to help my mother to pay the bills. When she left her second husband; not my dad, we had to pull together all of our resources to survive. Retail sales did not evoke any passion from me but it helped us live. My heart was focused on creating but this would always be pushed to the back of my mind as there was no room for pointless dreams in the real world. Sensibility came first. My mother needed help and I would save her from the misery she left behind. I would never let her go back, there.

I was in a dead end job until I met Daniel. He needed some help in his small Jewellery workshop. Tidying, cleaning, but it allowed me to delve into the world of creativity. Even if I were the one just cleaning around the skilled craftsmen. After a while as I showed more and more of an interest in his work he began to teach me small aspects of manufacturing jewellery. It was fascinating. Seeing the molten gold roll under the flame looking as pure as silk was mesmerizing. Daniel took me under his wing after telling me I had a natural talent for it. Funding my University courses. He was my savoir. After two years of training I had qualified from the London Guildhall University with City & Guilds in Diamond mounting and Diamond setting. I never wanted to leave Daniel. Working with him had been one of the most prestigious moments of my life. But as the recession hit, his business plummeted. I had never seen his look so deflated than the day he had to close his shop once and for all. He had never been one to feel sorry for himself, declaring “everything happens for a reason.” He used his motto in all instances, good or bad. That was the one thing I envied of Daniel, he looked at everything through the perspective of reason. I was not so naive in my perception of the world. In my head I could not for one moment believe my mother’s death was for a reason, for some greater good. Daniel had helped me gain an interview for a goldsmith position at Webber Jeweller’s. They were world renowned for their quality and skill and I was completely out of my depth. Daniel was insistent that I could do it and made me have the interview. When I left the interview it was surreal knowing that I had done it, I was starting at Webber Jeweller’s.

It was 8am. My first day at my new job had just begun. I was only just getting out of my car. Oh God, late, on my first bloody day, well isn’t this just fan-fucking-tastic. I grabbed all of my papers and pressed the fob to lock my car. I spun around and went running towards the lifts. Come on, come on, I was silently muttering.

The bell rang to indicate the lift had arrived and the doors slid open. I leaped into the lift, but for some reason my left leg did not follow. I glanced down. Shit.

“You have got to be friggin kidding me!” I exclaimed. I pulled, pulled a little harder, it was stuck. Not for one moment did my common sense remind me to slip my foot out of my shoe first, no of course that would have been far too simple and sensible. I was not going to let this conquer me. My heel was not going to stay wedged in the lift door. I was not going to get a bollocking for being late on my first day of work and I was not going to die of embarrassment.

“Here, let me help you.” I heard a deep seductive voice call from behind me. Scrap that last though, I AM going to die of embarrassment. Strong hands wrapped around my calf. With one swift movement my heel had released.

“ARRRaaagghhh” I screamed. I grabbed out in an automatic reaction to steady myself, it was no use. I was falling backwards and I had grabbed onto the tall dark stranger, and I was taking him with me.

THUD, the impacting noise as my head hit the floor. Ouch, ouch, ouch, this really is not going to be a good day. I opened my eyes half hoping this was all a figment of my imagination, but no, there he was, on top of me. His green eyes pressing into me, with a look of clear amusement on his face. Wow, he was beautiful. His scent was heavenly.

“Are you ok, Miss…um”,

“Evie, call me Evie”, feeling like a moronic fool. I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. His muscular body pressing against mine aroused a sensitive throbbing between my legs. He was gorgeous. How I wish we could just lie like this forever. Pressure lifted from my chest, the release instinctively allowed air to fill my lungs. He was standing, in front of me. Not a single dark hair out of place. I couldn’t compose myself quite so eloquently. My body felt like a quivering mass of female hormones.

Mr tall dark stranger held out his hand, “Take it.”

I obeyed and slipped my slender fingers into his firm palm. With a swift single movement he had pulled me up to my feet. It took me a moment to process the intensity I was feeling for this tall, dark stranger. He was a vision of perfection.

“What floor?” The realization that I was still pulled into his chest made me instinctively step backwards. I felt the blush warm my pale skin. His eyes warmed to me and a sinfully good smile crossed his lips.

“What floor did you want Evie?”

“Oh um”, I glanced through my papers, “twelve please”.

We travelled up the climbing elevator in silence. I tried to distract myself and think about the impending day of work I had. Designing and making real jewellery that people would buy. I was now worried I had just destroyed my opportunity before it had even begun.

My thoughts were broken by the noise of the lift coming to a halt. I looked up and here I was, the number twelve glowed against the dark screen set above the lift doors. I glanced over to my tall, dark stranger, offering a nervous smile as I gathered my composure and left the lift. As the doors closed behind me I exhaled deeply.

Looking around me I headed in the direction the reception desk. The hall was bright, white, with high ceilings which allowed the light to reflect off of the huge mirrors which hung seamlessly from the walls. Directly in front of me was a sleek glass table. I ran my finger along the contoured edge. Behind it sat a beautifully presented woman. Perhaps Mid -40’s, but glamorous none the less. She had jet black hair cut into a short sharp bob. Surely that could not be her natural colour? I found myself thinking. I stood there taking in her polished appearance and bright red lipstick. I was waiting for a reaction from her but she kept her eyes pressed firmly to her computer screen. After a couple of minutes which seemed like an eternity I cleared my throat hoping this would gain her attention. It worked. She glanced up at me giving me the once over. I had never felt so self conscious in my life. I started to question my choice in clothing, no, I shouldn’t. I looked smart, or so I thought. I had my black pencil skirt on which clung to all the right places. It accentuated the curve of my lower body and pulled me in at the waist. With it I wore my white blouse tucked into the skirt with a little silver belt and a pair of nude stilettos. No I will not let her intimidate me, I look fine. Don’t I?

I smiled softly, “I am here for Karen Alboni, I am the new Goldsmith”.

She looked amused. “Oh the Goldsmith, I will just call Karen up”.

I couldn’t quite understand her need for sarcasm and the hostile tone in which she spoke to me, but in all honestly, I couldn’t care less. As woman’s figure approached from the distance my anguish began to subside. Karen was a kind and pleasant woman. Firm but fair. She was very short, petite. With waved auburn hair. A streak of metallic silver ran through the front of her fringe, adding a distinguished edge to her. Her glasses sat comfortably on the end on her nose giving a clear view of her warm grey eyes.

“I am so sorry I am late.”

“At least you are here now, but do not, under any circumstances be late into the office again. Understand.” I nodded continuously, making myself look like one of those ridiculous nodding dogs whose heads bob up and down in the back window of a car.

“I will show you to the workshop.”

“Okay, Thank you.”

I couldn’t help it when my mind started to travel to dark corners of my mind. I fantasized about my tall, dark, stranger resting pressing his body into mine again. I half smirked and removed it when I realized Karen was still looking at me.

Could this day get any worse?

We walked behind the reception desk and took a left into a long narrow corridor. This area had a more comforting architectural feel to it. Ox Blood red textured paper lined the walls.

Along the corridor there was a running line of doors to private offices. Between each door there was a sepia photograph of a variety of different faces framed with a crisp bronzed edge.

Karen noticed me looking at them intently. “They are all of the Webber family” she offered.

At the end of the corridor we reached two very grand doors, they must have been at least twelve feet tall. They had hand carved floral embellishments and looked aged, the kind of aged which added to the exceptionally high quality finish of furniture, somewhat antique. Not that I knew much about antiques, the oldest thing I owned was my three year old Swatch watch. We walked past the doors to the left and passed a compact kitchen. Further along was a glass fronted workshop.

Karen knocked on the door.

“Come in”.

As we entered I was distracted by the testosterone that filled the workshop. I was the only female and was now intensely nervous. Not only was I the only female, I was an exceptionally overdressed female. Glancing around the men wore sneakers, jeans, and t-shirts covered in dust. Bollocks. I looked like a complete moron.

“This is Evie” Karen introduced me to a small petite man. He seemed welcoming but he couldn’t quite hide the bemused smile from his mouth.

“Hi Evie, I am Dave. I am the manager of the workshop here at Webber HQ”.

“Nice to meet you”, I held out my hand and smiled at his decisive choice to ignore my lack of timekeeping skills.

“I will show you to your bench”. He walked me over to my working bench which sat between two other men.

“This is Martin” indicating to the older gentleman to my right. Shades of grey ran through his thick wiry hair.

Martin did not look up to acknowledge me. “Hello”, his voice was deep and raspy, his ignorance making a conscious decision to make me feel less than welcome.

“Hello Martin, very good to meet you”. I tried not to let his disposition deter me. This would have been the perfect time to think of a small witty response to lighten the mood, nope, nothing came to mind.

“This is Chris, He is my number two and will be here to help you getting into the swing of the working workshop”.

Chris looked over to me and gave me a welcoming smile, “Hi Evie, nice to meet you”.

“Likewise,” I returned feeling instantly more confident.

As I turned around I felt the air rush from my lungs. The hairs on the nape of my neck stood to attention leaving me breathless. There he was, my tall, dark stranger. His eyes looked instinctively into mine and the intensity increased. This feeling was inexplicable. I was speechless. He looked so calm and collected standing in the doorway of the workshop.

“Hello Evie, I am Henry Webber, a little late this morning are we?” His lips softened into a half smile.

I wanted the floor to swallow me up. I was mortified. I wanted to speak but my mouth just dropped open. My nerves resurfaced, making me fidget.

An agitated Karen nudged me. “Sorry, Mr. Webber, Everline really is a…”,

Henry mustled in, “It’s ok Karen,” a teasing smile crossed his face, “we have already met.”

I could feel the blood rush to my cheeks. I knew I was getting flustered and looking a shade closer to crimson every second I stood there. Sensing my embarrassment he pursed his lips as if he were going to say something. Karen was standing staring at us looking rather bemused. My heart was pounding.

“Enjoy your first day, Evie. I thought I would just drop by and introduce myself to the new Goldsmith.”

As he went to leave he paused after a step and turned to face Dave, “I need Evie to stop by my office at 9am.” His tone harsh and authoritative.

“Not a problem Mr. Webber, I will send her over.” Even Dave seemed intimidated by him.

I needed a second, I needed a minute, God I needed an hour. My legs felt so unsteady I leaned against the work bench to steady myself.

“What was that about?” Karen darted over at me.

“Um I just happened to get me heel stuck in the lift doors this morning, got pulled out by Mr. Webber and fell to the floor with him lying on top of me”.

Shock consumed Karen’s face. Her lips parted wanting to reply but she decided against it. I heard muffled laughter from Chris and Dave.

I put my bag on the coat hook and sunk into my softly cushioned black leather chair. It cocooned me. Thoughts flashed through my mind, falling…. his eyes… his body……… I gulped and wished for this day start over.

I began to go through my tools and placing them in order. I sat and pondered how this man, only five years my senior could be so successful. Henry was CEO of Webber Jewellers. A high end family jewellery chain that been passed down through the Webber family.

Although he had been fortunate to be born into this fortune his determination did not end there. He sourced new suppliers and new designers. He travelled all over the world to learn about his craft and ensure the company grew, which it had. Over the past three years it had grown from five small jewellery shops to having over three hundred boutiques worldwide. He campaigned tirelessly for the withdrawal of blood diamonds and wanted to make sure the materials his company used were ethically sourced and that the workers were paid a fair fee for their stones and metals. I admired him yet envied him. Wow, whatever I felt he was one hell of a man.

I glanced down at my silver Swatch watch, 8.54am.

Dave called over, “Better make a move Evie.”

I waited outside of Henry’s office. I was three minutes early so paced myself before entering. I closed my eyes. Willing for our encounter to be as painless as possible.

He grabbed me by my hips and lifted me up around his waist. My legs wrapped around his body instinctively. His lips kissed mine, parting them and pushing his tongue inside of my mouth, swirling, stroking and sucking. I murmured.

“Oh Evie”, he pulled back on my ponytail arching my back. He ran his hand from my neck across my breasts and stopped.

“Are you okay there Everline?” I opened my eyes, panting a little. Henry was standing in the doorway looking a little amused. Shit.

“I… I’m sorry. You said you wanted to see me?”

“Come in”. A small hint of a smile pulled at the outer corners of his flush full lips.

The large black phone perched on his desk began to ring. “I need to take this, is that ok?”

I shrugged, glancing around his office. It was larger than the entire workshop. Too large for one man. Mahogany and leather covered the majority of the surfaces. His office was masculine and formal. Cold.

“For fuck sake, you are fucking kidding me, how much?” He was seething into the end of the telephone receiver. God he looked so fuckable when he was angry. Stop thinking, stop thinking. I smiled over and went to leave when he raise a finger indicating for me to sit. I mulled over to the chair and sat down as smoothly as I could. I didn’t want to end up embarrassing myself, again.

“Tell them no. We will see then won’t we.” I jumped in reaction as the phone slammed against his desk.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to frighten you”,

I smiled softly.

“So how are you getting on? Did Dave give you everything you needed?”

“Yes thank you”

He leant his head to the side looking at me curiously. His gaze made me feel uneasy, it made me feel wanted. No I must be crazy, I work in the workshop, he is, well the one and only Henry Webber.

I am sure he looked at me with an enticing eye, I couldn’t help but wonder; wonder if he felt the spark just as I had this morning.

“What are you doing for lunch today Evie?”

“Oh um, I hadn’t quite thought about it yet.”

“Well as you have no plans, would you care to join me?”

This was surreal, surely I was dreaming again, no I must not read into this, he must be being polite, hospitable. I replied trying to not sound so eager, even though I wanted to scream yes at the top of my lungs.

“That would be lovely, thank you”.

“Perfect, 1pm suit you?” — I nodded.

“I should really get back to work now Mr. Webber”.

“Please, call me Henry”,

“I best get back to my work now, Henry. It is my first day as you know”.

“You do know I am your boss?” I wasn’t too pleased with his direct observation. Yes he was, but that seemed to somehow confirm how below him I was.

“So I will determine if you need to go back to work or not” he carried on.

“Of course, I just, just didn’t want Dave to feel I was not doing my job.”

“Do you have a boyfriend?” What? Curveball. Where the hell was he going with this?

“No, I don’t”. I smiled nervously.

“So you’re not fucking anyone then?” Did I hear him correctly? What an obnoxious ass. Why the hell was it any of his business? Well two can play at this game.

“I never said that”. His eyes widened. Blackening. This was exhilarating.

“So you are or you aren’t?” He edged towards me, stressing each word slowly yet forcefully.

“I may be”.

“Oh Evie. Don’t play games with me. I may just have to bend you over and fuck the truth from you”.

He was completely condescending, arrogant, yet blissfully intense. I should stand and walk away from this. The mass of danger wrapped inside of this beautiful man. But the penetrating gaze of his eyes drew me into the wanting and indecent desire I felt for Henry. Something about him captured me. My body and mind had never felt more liberated. His eyes were alight with passion. Irrational lust devoured my body. There was something gloriously erotic about his proposition, yet bitterly dangerous. I don’t know what came over me but my mouth started utter words that my mind had yet to comprehend their implications.

“Mr. Webber. I think perhaps you should sit down and calmly consider your sexual frustrations. If the idea of another man pushing my legs apart and slipping inside of my hot wet slit frustrates you then perhaps a more gentlemanly approach would have been required as opposed to your very adolescent proposition of bending me over and fucking me.” I said the words as confidently and seductively as I could.

He cowered over me. I stood to meet his gaze, not letting his gaze deter me. His face gaped in astonishment. I swear I heard him gasp.

“Good day Mr. Webber”. I smiled innocently and walked out of his office. Ha that will teach him.

* * *

Three years later and was I really contemplating putting an end to our relationship because of my messed up issues.

I wasn’t so sure anymore.

Chapter 2

Once Lucy had left I glanced down at my diamond set Omega. Shit, I cursed out loud. Shit, shit, shit, I’m going to be so late. I grabbed my black linen blazer in the hope it would smarted up my t-shirt and jeans. I used my fingers to manipulate the stray hairs into a pulled back pony tail. Slipping my feet into my favourite pair or black Manolo’s. They were sexy and sleek yet elegant. I took a one last glance in the mirror and it surprised me, I wasn’t sure who I saw in my own reflection. I walked out of Henry’s, correction — our, home I put the thoughts of my personal life away for the day. Although I had a nagging feeling this was not going to be the case as I did of course have to sit through a brunch with Vivienne. Urgh.

I walked into The Starlight and glanced around. The size and stature of this building had suddenly made me exceptionally nervous. My fingers began to entwine and fidget. My palms became clammy and it instantly felt rather warm in here. It was the most prestigious restaurant in Mayfair. I wasn’t used to the facade of wealth. People with money intimidated me and although I had been in contact with immense wealth for the past three years it had still not become any easier to slip into the lifestyle that Henry belonged to. I was an ordinary girl who grew up in a typical three bed semi on the outskirts of London. All of wealth that came with Henry made me anxious. I straightened out my blazer and held my head high. I will not be intimidated; I will not be intimidated, chanting my mantra repetitively.

I found myself stuttering some sort of apology to the concierge for being late; the petite woman glanced over to the small intimate table in front of the tall glass bay window which looked over the lawns to the back of the building. There must have been at least fifty tables, all covered in crisp white linen. Silverware polished to perfection. It put my cutlery to shame. I looked towards her and nodded as I acknowledged that Vivienne was already there.

I didn’t want to be here. It was a matter of obligation. Vivienne was the epitome of wealth and stature. She didn’t like me and had no qualms about making me damn well aware of this, belittling me at every given opportunity. Family events were like the pit of a hell hole for me. Choice vocabulary which would even put the dictionary to shame was the accustomed language at all of her events. I looked like an obviously foolish fish out of water barely registering any topic of conversation, let alone being able to converse in one. I only usually met Vivienne alone at her request. It tended to be when she wanted to inform me of something or complain about my behaviour. I would rather chew all of my nails off than be sat here with her, but Henry was our mutual respect, so this was all part of being with Henry, accepting his battleaxe, spinster mother.

“Hello Vivienne”, I smiled politely at her.

Her un-naturally bleached blonde hair had been curved around her overtly tanned face. Small golden glasses framed her green eyes, the only naturally beautiful feature left on her fabricated face. Vivienne was now quite literally glaring at me. Oh God what, what have I done.

“Jeans?” She practically screeched at me, like a high pitched banshee. Her eyes were pinched at the corner, scowling. Disapproval radiating from her like a soaring fire.

Holy crap, it’s nothing life altering at the very least. I hadn’t planned to wear to jeans. I had a conservative black shift dress picked out, the perfect attire for lunch with the evil witch Vivienne. Why did I talk to Lucy for so long? So what, what does it matter that I was wearing my sexy ass jeans? I was comfortable and we were having brunch for God’s sake, brunch!

“Sorry Vivienne, I though jeans would be suitable as we were only meeting for brunch.”

“Suitable? Take a look around you Everline, do you see anyone else in jeans?” Her arms launched out from her sides, wavering dramatically at the room of guests that surrounded us. My eyes obediently followed her arms and glanced around the room, taking in the men in formal tailoring and business suits, and women groomed to perfection in pencil skirts.

“Um, No,” I stuttered. God, how did she do this to me? I was strong. Or so I thought. I had always been independent; I had to be. But since being with Henry, I had found it slipping away, each and every day. Managing to lose a little more of myself along the way.

“Sorry Vivienne, it won’t happen again.” She intimidated me more than any other human being in this world. She was glamorous and strong and the protection she felt for Henry, her only child was immense. She had to be involved in every decision and every part of our lives. What was worse was that she practically hated me. I was not what she wanted for her precious son. I was not educated enough, pretty enough or from the right social background for me to even be considered by her. She was still seething that her best friend’s daughter, Antonia had not won Henry’s heart. She was positively the perfect socialite.

“Good, make sure you don’t,” she sneered.

We sat in awkward silence. My voice not strong enough to think of the correct thing to say which would be a suitable topic of discussion. I noted the fine cutlery which sat placed in front of me on the off white linen, three of everything.

“So Everline, I hear that you got offered a job?”

This was surprising, was she pleased? Maybe she could see I didn’t want to live off of Henry’s wealth. I lifted my head softly, allowing my eyes to focus on her facial expression before answering. Her face was bitterly unreadable.

“Yes,” I said softly. Trying to gauge where this was going before I exuded to much enthusiasm.

“Well…” she paused, “Although I think although this may have been a Nobel gesture on your part you have to realize this is not a suitable way to behave. If you wish to try and become the woman my Henry deserves, then I suggest you get these ideals of being a working woman out of your head. Henry needs a responsible woman who he knows will make a good housewife and mother to his children”. Children, housewife?

“Do you understand that you have to change your ways Everline, and start to be more responsible? Try engaging in more literature, try pushing yourself to being more intellectually capable of socialising around more of the family associates.”

I could feel tears welling up in the corners of my eyes; I would not let this woman make me cry. Well at least not until I was out of her view.

“Yes” I mustled up, “of course.”

“Good, at least we are clear.”

I was deep in thought, confused and hurt by the conversation we just had. Not that it was much of a conversation, more of a dictation. I thought I had left this behind, but I found myself back in familiar circumstances and all I wanted to do right now was sob into my pillow.

“Can I take your order?” I heard a sweet woman’s voice ask. As I turned to look at her I saw sympathy in her eyes. I had to presume she had witnessed our encounter.

“Can I have the bacon, eggs bened…” I was abruptly cut off.

“Two Caesar salads please waitress, light on the dressing”. She bit out at the waitress. Not even taking the courtesy to lift her eyes from the menu. I stared at Vivienne bemused at her ignorant manner.

“Dear you need to start eating healthier. You have seemingly put on a good few pounds and could do with losing them.”

I was mortified, a few pounds?? Admittedly I did not have a stick thin models figure but I was happy and comfortable in my own skin. I was a petite 5ft2, one hundred pounds, my petite waist highlighted the womanly curve of my hips and full bust. It had taken me years to accept my body respecting it and the curves I possessed. For this woman to demoralize me like this sliced through me like a knife.

We sat through an uncomfortable silence. Vivienne focused on her Blackberry. I started through the windows out on to the lush green grounds, trying to stop myself from whimpering like a scorned child. When our salads arrived I felt a sense of release. I picked at the lettuce leafs knowing that Vivienne enjoyed eating in silence. Not much longer, then I will be out of here. The salad was delicious, everything on the menu was of course. But my stomach was still yearning for more food. Hmm, To — do list. Run out of here, wallow in self pity in my car, then head to the bakers for exceptionally large, warm, freshly back pain au chocolate. Perfect.

“Thank you for lunch Vivienne, it was good to see you.”

“Likewise, just make sure you take head of my advice Everline.”

The cool September breeze rushed against my face. Instantly lowering the burning temperature of my heated skin. I felt the tears start to gather fuelling my overwhelming urge to cry. I rushed towards my car as quickly as my legs would let me. Bodies in suits started to bump into me along the busy pathways, London was hectic at noon. All of the workers ran out for their hour lunch breaks and didn’t think twice about walking straight into me. Their hunger was a shrewd partner next to my emotional turmoil.

I swung open the door to my ridiculously over sized, over priced Range Rover Vogue. It was tacky and represented everything I hate about wealth. It was a statuesque. A car which determined the treatment you were entitled to as you pulled into certain establishments. I hated the idea of this pretentious car determining my place in society. Henry insisted on it. I was happy with my little VW polo, it was compact and efficient. Better still it was not a gas guzzling monster that pounded emissions into our atmosphere.

As I slammed the car door shut the tears started to pour like a wave on unrepressed emotional angst. They were uncontrollable. I was breaking down because of a bitch of a woman who found it suitable to convince me that I was anything but right for her precious son. Really, who refers to their son as ‘my Henry’.

“Excuse me.”

A light tapping against my window startled me. “Are you okay?”

I practically jumped when I noticed a male figure through the driver’s side window. Trying desperately to focus through my water blurred sight. I swiped the back of my hand across my eyes. Looking directly at me was the most intensely flawless face I had ever seen, just inches from me. Still sobbing I wavered my hand and mouthed yes through the glass. Praying this stranger would leave me to wallow in self pity.

“You don’t look okay,” he called through.

What does he care, why is he even still here? Staring at me with his unreadable, beautiful eyes.

“I’m fine,” my voice broke on the fine.

He pulled on my car handle and the door swung open. Damn it, why didn’t I lock the doors. I am going to be murdered in a car park in Mayfair because I didn’t lock my stupid car door. I leaned back ready to jump across the passenger seat and out of the other door before looking into his eyes once more. But instinct told me I was safe with him, his eyes held no threat. He crouched at the foot of the door making no attempt to come near me. He had merely removed the partition that divided our space. His eyes only looked at me with compassion and sympathy, they were warm, inviting, sea blue flecked with glistening amber. I wanted to melt as I gazed into them. I couldn’t help but want to look at him, wanting to take in every part of him. I realized his face was almost perfect. There was one small scar above his right eyebrow. I liked it, he looked raw, primal. His hair was ash brown. Short with a little length on top which had the messy-bad boy-just-got-out-of-bed-look going on. His jaw was chiselled with a little light stubble over. He was, wow, and now I was more than mortified that he had found me sobbing my heart out in my car.

How could I tell him that my boyfriend’s mother had upset me? It sounded so juvenile and pathetic. I was pathetic. This was my personal space, why did he have to invade it with his charming face, kind nature and muscular frame. I started to sob harder as I realized this day could not get any worse. Without saying a word he wrapped his arms around my shoulders and just held me. My body instantly tensed at the thought of another man touching me, holding me. His hold was like a warm comforting cocoon offering my body the support that it needed. As my body relaxed I tilted me head and rested my face on his shoulder. It felt so natural. My heart rate began to settle and in turn my tears subsided.

I pulled back suddenly in the realization that this was wrong, morally wrong. What was more disturbing to me was that I didn’t want to let go, I didn’t want to allow my body to be removed from his hold. I didn’t want to look into his eyes and know that I would never see them again.

“I, I, I’m sorry, I didn’t meant to, um, soak your t-shirt.”

His snow white t-shirt was blotched with tears and smudged mascara. I didn’t even want to contemplate what my eyes must look like.

“It’s okay, don’t ever apologise for being upset. Are you okay?” His voice was soft, caring.

“Not really, but I will be, thank you for lending me your shoulder.” I let out a slight smile, trying to lighten the reality of the scenario, me being held in another man’s arms.

“I should really get back.”

“Oh right, you don’t wanna talk about it, we could get a coffee?” he said looking a little deflated.

“No, I am sorry, but thanks.” I sighed. “I should go”.

I reached for the car door handle. He stepped back allowing me the room to clutch the handle, his eyes never left mine. I pulled my car door closed and drove away from the car park. As I glanced back in the rear view mirror, I saw him standing there looking directly at me. My heart fluttered and my eyes held onto his image for as long as possible before he disintegrated into the distance.

Chapter 3

I put the key in the front door lock and wiggled it as I turned it. I really needed to get a locksmith in to fix that. I hoped that I had some time alone to process the day quietly before Henry arrived home. As I walked into the hall I glanced around taking my surroundings in. We had lived here for a little over a year. As I looked around the hall and wandered through to our lounge I realized that none of this felt like home, not to me. Everything was eccentric, ridiculously grand and far too expensive. Everywhere was cream or white with solid oak flooring scattered with the odd antique Persian rugs. Priceless art work adorning the walls. None of which I even liked, a splat across a canvas, that was not art to me. I was proud of my artistic streak and loved to indulge. It was the only thing other than Lucy that helped me keep my sanity through my mother’s death. When I moved into this house Henry allowed me to create a studio in the loft room, it helped fill my monotonous days of cleaning and wandering around aimlessly trying to feel useful. It was my serenity. I could sit there for hours, painting and musing. None of my artwork found a suitable wall to hang from in our home. Henry did not find my art work priceless enough for his walls. I felt a little like a child whose scribbles only managed to find placement of the refrigerator door, yet at least theirs were loved and their parents had pride in them. No, mine were just paintings which sat in my studio. Alone.

I walked along our split stair case and around the grand landing, looking at all of the doorways, six bedrooms. Why did we need six bedrooms? There was only the two of us and Henry was insistent that there would be no children in our near future. He wanted the next five years available to focus solely on his career and his company. I felt a little cold and lost in this big house. I reached the next staircase and climbed the fourteen steps to my loft room studio. This one single room was home to me. Colour filled the walls, memories of my life covering the canvases. The good and the bad. Images of frustration, emotional healing and lastly love. I sank into my chair, closed my eyes and let myself remember back to the happier times.

* * *

He looked at me with solemn eyes and cupped my face in his hands. I looked into his bright green eyes and my heart started to race. He had heard it, he must have, he must have known the reaction he was causing my body to have. Without hesitation he leaned into me, touching his lips with mine. His kiss was soft yet wanting. Every inch of me was alive with desire. I leaned into him pursing my lips and running my hands through his dark chocolate brown hair, the kiss turned eager, passionately sliding his tongue into my mouth and massaging mine with his. His breathing rhythm increased and without at first realizing it he was laying me back against his desk. For a moment he stopped kissing me and pulled his head away. Stepping back he looked at me, “I have to give you something” as he said it he reached into his drawer and pulled out a large brown envelope and handed it to me. Intrigued, I carefully peeled it open and pulled out the papers inside.

“Are you serious, my P45, your fucking firing me” I screamed at him. “What have I done wrong? I need this job.”

“No you don’t, not anymore” he said calmly.

His lips turned up at the corners smiling at me. I could tell he found my reaction humorous which enraged me further. Feeling confused and vulnerable, I opened my mouth to speak when he placed his index finger over my lips to silence them. Shit, I should have known there would be ramifications for sleeping with Henry, I just had not expected this. We were not official; we had just been having office fuckery fun for the past six months. There was no nasty break up of issues to work around, so why? Why was he talking my career away from me?

“I have a company policy to not date or fuck my employees; since you have ever so kindly let me delve into your sweet panties I now find it the suitable time to end your employment for my company. I do not expect my girlfriend to work in a workshop filled with men that want to have their wicked way with her.” I was dumbfounded, girlfriend? Henry and I had exchange mutual sexual relations but not in a million years did I expect him to want more of me than my body. What had just happened, all of these thoughts raced through my mind and then he kissed me again, sending the spiral of confusion completely out of my head. I let out a little squeal as the desire that ran through me was hard to control.

He smiled at me, “I have wanted you since the first moment I had laid eyes on you. You will be my wife one day Evie.”

A sense of euphoria surrounded me. I was twenty two, the man of my dreams wanted me, simple old me. Everything in my life was changing for the better, everything was perfect.

* * *

I awoke to the sound of the front door closing. I looked at the time and realized I must have fallen asleep, shit, it was 6.02pm and I hadn’t even started dinner. I was starving and my stomach agreed by letting out a rumble. I ran down the two flights of stairs as quickly as my legs would carry me. Henry was standing in the hall kicking of his black lace up loafers. That was the one thing I always found awkward about Henry, he never relaxed or wore sneakers, jeans were as casual as he got, but they were always teamed with a shit and loafers, always.

“Hungry baby?”

“Starving” he returned. I smiled and kissed him on the cheek. I walked into the kitchen and started to get the ingredients out of the fridge.

“Just jumping in the shower Evie” he called.

“Okay, I’m making a lasagne so it will be about half an hour,” Okay, time keeping isn’t my best quality, more like an hour.

“Okay baby” he called down the stairs.

I started to chop the garlic and onion, tossing them into the sizzling pan which was laced with olive oil. I flicked the stereo on and started to dance and hum along with the rasp of Ed Sheeran’s music, swaying and smiling.

I had just layered the lasagna and after a last sprinkling of parmesan, placed it into the oven when I felt his arms slide around my waist. The palms of his hands rested just above my pelvis.

“I love you baby”, he whispered softly into my ear.

“I love you too”, it came all too naturally, like a pre-embedded text which was returned all of his ‘I love you’s’.

We danced around the kitchen for what seemed like an eternity. Twirling and spinning, laughing and smiling. We were not the most co-ordinated pair of dancers but it was entertaining to see Henry try and move to the music.

“Oh wait, wait, wait, dinner!” I exclaimed.

I nearly forgot, my stomach would not be pleased if I managed to burn it. After the small salad at brunch and then forgetting to get my pain au chocolate I could not risk losing this dinner. I rushed over and grabbed the oven gloves, swung open the door and pulled out the tray.

“Phew”, I sighed.

“Disaster avoided baby?”

“Yes, thank goodness.” I make a mean lasagne and did not want to have to feed it to the bin tonight!

We sat around the table enjoying each other’s company, good food and a little tipple of wine.

“How was tea with Mother today?”

“Oh, um fine I suppose, she um, said I had put on a few pounds and ordered me salad”, I grimaced remembering her bitter tone.

“I am sure she didn’t mean it darling.”

“Perhaps”, I sighed. “Do you think I am fat?”

I knew picking with him about his mother was a losing battle. I would never expect him to choose her over me; she was of course his mother. It would however be nice if he happened to realize how much her comments upset me and considered discussing her remarks with her.

“Don’t be ridiculous, you know Mother, she doesn’t understand that it is nice for a woman to have curves.”

“Is that your way of saying I am fat then, you just happen to like it?”

“Evie, I am telling you this once only, you are not fat, end of conversation.”

The atmosphere felt dense and Henry’s eyes were focused down to his lasagne not willing to break the silence. I suppose I was being a little ridiculous, I didn’t have to ask him again when he had already said I was not fat.

“Lucy popped over this morning and then I cleaned the house.” I lied about the cleaning, but the house was always so impeccable that it barely needed doing. He wouldn’t have noticed.

I also purposely left out the details of the chance meeting in car park with the man who quite simply seemed to make my body quiver at the thought of.

“Oh yes, of course, Lucy is back, how was her expedition?” Henry seemed to relax, his body loosened and things were comfortable between us again.

“She had a fabulous time. Met a guy at the airport on the way home, of all the places. Oh that reminded me are we still ok for Alexis’ party tomorrow night? Luce is going to come to with her new flavour of the month.”

Alexis was my beautiful younger sister, she was fun, outgoing and exuded confidence. I hadn’t seen her in almost two months. Not since the last time Henry was away on business. He and Alexis are not exactly best of friends so Henry prefers me to spend time with him when he is in the country, rather than her. It is only on a rare occasion they will be in the same room as one another.

“Yes still ok for tomorrow night”.

“Great.”

I finished my meal and looked across at Henry I couldn’t help but smile and take all of him in. His very beautiful features. His autumn green eyes dusted with flecks of gold. His mop of unruly wavy dark brown hair, he was mine. I fell in love with him, I do love him; surely I can want to make love to him.

I finished off my glass of wine, and decided that I would make a conscious decision to make Henry know and feel as if he was wanted. I stood up and walked over to him and sat on his lap wrapping my arms around his neck. Leaning down I placed my lips against his and kissed him. His tongue entered my mouth instantaneously. Brushing and stroking mine with his. An eager groan erupted from the back of his throat. I kissed him back, running my hands through his hair. He cupped the back of my head with his hand and tilted my neck to give him better access. This was the first time we have kissed passionately like this in weeks. Something was missing. His tongue was swamping my mouth, barely allowing me any movement. Abruptly he pushed me back. He was still panting. I leant my head to the side, confused. He looked lovingly into my eyes and smiled. I followed his gaze and he brought it down to his hands. In it there was a box. Oh my god, oh my god. I am going to hyperventilate, shit, am I ready? Oh God, don’t do this, not yet, yes do this, this is what you need, what I need. A mixed array of questions and thoughts pouring through my mind.

“Baby, I love you, I have loved you from the moment I met you and I want to love you from now until eternity. You are my world, my sun, my universe and I couldn’t imagine one day without loving you,” he paused, building up the courage, “will you be my wife?”

I gasped, needing to inhale deeply to recover the lost air that had been drummed from my lungs. How could I not love this man? How could I tell him that I wasn’t sure after all of those things he had just said?

“Yes”

From the moment that single word had left my lips I had an unexplainable feeling deep down in the pit of my stomach and knew I should not have said it.

He took the huge diamond encased by platinum out of the black velvet box and placed it on my ring finger. I looked down at it and my heart ached with confusion. The ring was beautiful, a huge circular diamond, completely flawless wrapped in a layer of platinum. It was so smooth, so beautiful.

He swept me up in his arms and placed me on top of the dining room table.

“I love you” he whispered against my ear lobe. He laid me back and kissed my lips, his kiss ravishing and suffocating, his tongue invading my mouth. The release of this uncomfortable torture was a moment of relief. “You have made me the happiest man in the world”. His crisp white smile beaming down at me.

Relief short lived. He kissed and sucked on my earlobe, tugging it between his teeth, causing an equal balance of mild pain mixed with sheer irritation. He traced his tongue down the contour of my neck to my chest, stopping just above my breasts. My body shuddered under his touch. I knew it was coming. The inevitable. I knew there was no way of stopping this, I had encouraged him. I would have to force my body to openly oblige his entry into me. Perhaps if I gave myself too him I would remember how enjoyable our sex life once was and we could be happy again.

A tear slipped from my eye and dropped to the table. The unexplainable tear shed, mourning the loss for what we once had, or perhaps for the notion of his hands pulling and tugging at my body.

He unbuttoned my jeans and tugged them off along with my panties, throwing them to the marbled stone floor. There was no romance, no foreplay, no build up, no suspense. He wanted a fuck and that is what he was going to get.

Hard panting spilled from his mouth, something crossed between a wild animal and a man starved of sex. His tongue traced from my knee up the inside of my thigh. He blew gently over my sex and ran his tongue lightly over it, twirling, kissing and sucking. My mind couldn’t shut off, I should be enjoying this but I couldn’t. His tongue was invading a part of my body. The part I didn’t want him anywhere near. The awkward sensation of him kissing and licking the most vulnerable part of my body lasted all of thirty seconds, seconds which seemed like an eternity. Henry did this to make sure I was wet enough with saliva for him to enter me. It was the only purpose for him kissing me there, my body naturally refused to fill with liquid desire.

This was going to be the first time in two months he was actually going have sex with me and he was damn sure that he was going to get it, nothing was going to stand in his way. Not missing a beat he pulled down his trousers with urgency, releasing his huge cock which was impatiently standing to attention. Demanding its release. I tried to remove the thought of him entering me from my mind but it was no use, it was imprinted bitterly. Henry grabbed me by the waist flipping me over against the solid oak table. The firm push of his palm splayed my chest forcefully against the table top. Fusing my torso to the solid wood grain.

My body felt foreign.

“Spread your legs” he grunted.

I obliged, parting them as widely as I possibly could. His firm hold continued to press against my spine. An overwhelming bout of pressure pushed against my slit. A sweet burning ripped through me as he pushed into me from behind. Every inch further made me wince; the pain was only just bearable. My hip bones rubbed vigorously against the table as he continuously pounded into me. Unbearable pressure against my near faded bruise was emanating immense pain which far surpassed the distress of his dick inside of me. This felt like complete torture. Why? It shouldn’t be like this? Should it? I shouldn’t feel like this surely?

He was fucking me hard. No consideration for my needs or pain threshold. His body pounding against mine repetitively, the sensation of his balls slapping against my skin was enough to make me want to vomit. I was so restricted, so confined. My body was unable to move under the pressure of his hold. His voice let out a raging groan filled with radiating pleasure. All I could do was count the minutes until he had finished. I made a few noises and moaned in the right places. I was just grateful that all he could see was the back of my head. Nothing about this felt good. He was like a savage in need of his release.

I cried myself to sleep that night.

Chapter 4

“Morning gorgeous”,

“Morning” I replied,

I felt wrong, wrong was the only word that entered my mind, it was the only simple little word that I could find to describe how I was feeling. The word was not a good enough example to describe the hurt and anguish I really felt inside but it summed it up in the purest simplicity. For me everything about my relationship with Henry was wrong. Over the last six months he had started working more and more, leaving me alone in our oversized home with no job, no life. When Henry did come home for a few days at a time all he usually wanted was a quick fuck. Sex became just that with Henry, simply sex. No love or emotion and I learned to live without it. I didn’t want to feel used and left alone after every session of him pounding against me so I started to ‘not be in the mood’ a lot more. We never had fun together outside of these four walls. I wanted to go out dancing with him and enjoy our relationship, converse, do what normal couples did. But his work ultimately came first. I was aware of that fact when I met him and yet I didn’t think to contemplate what our relationship would ultimately become when he first fired me. Who I would become.

Sunday’s had started to become the most mundane day of my week as it was normally filled with lame attempts to deter Henry from initiating sex. Bombarding myself with washing, cleaning and ironing to make sure my hands were constantly occupied.

“Are you excited about today?” Henry asked nuzzling into my neck.

“Very”. A huge grin spread across my face, it was my sister Alexis’ 21th birthday and she had booked Mahiki for drinks this evening. It was one of the hottest clubs in London. Intimate, on trend with a superb playlist. I loved it there. The best bit was Lucy was going to be there too. I loved Lex implicitly and felt like we were finally having a chance of being sisters again. Mum’s death had affected us both deeply. I held onto my emotions and buried them deep inside of myself, trying to focus on making sure my life did not follow her path. I had bills to pay and Lex to look after. Lex handled her grief differently. She rebelled, fought out and pushed me away. I was the one person who found mum as she laid there completely defenceless, cold. Lex resented me for years for not allowing her to see mum one last time in the mortuary. She was only fifteen when mum passed and I wasn’t prepared to let my little sister’s memory be tainted by seeing her the way she was. Lex will never know, but I wish I had never seen mum the way I found her.

Henry slid out of bed and left the room. I closed my eyes again and thoughts of the tall stranger’s arms encasing me swept across my mind. I felt safe. A huge bang startled me, pulling me from the warmth of my dream.

“Sorry baby, I didn’t mean to wake you, again.”

“That’s ok”, I glanced down and saw his black luggage case at his feet, seemingly heavy and already packed.

“What are you doing?”

“I have got to go away again, sorry darling”. He said it so calmly thinking that this would be the only explanation I would require. Why would I deserve anything more, I am of course only his fiancée. It sounded like a prefabricated response, ready for his mouth to spill to me upon my inquisition.

“Away? But you are coming to Alexis’ party with me? You were just going to go?”

“Sorry baby, I have to go, I have a huge meeting with some suppliers, I would have left a note.”

“Are you kidding me? You only told me last night you could still go with me. How long will you be gone?”

“Fourteen nights”

“Fourteen nights, whoa, this is bullshit Henry, why didn’t you tell me about this?”

“Yes Fourteen nights, it’s a little thing called work Evie, not that you would know what that is. Don’t get on my fucking case”.

A lump mounded in my throat and tears began to fall. I wanted to work, I needed to work, he wouldn’t let me and now that’s my fault?

“Don’t start with the crying bullshit, it won’t work on me, I have to go, I will email you when I arrive”.

I stood up out of bed knowing that I was going to push him too far, but at that moment in time I didn’t care. The aftermath of my outburst was inconsequential at this moment.

“That’s not good enough Henry, you won’t let me work. You can’t just keep disappearing and leaving me here like this.”

With one swift movement I found myself falling backwards onto the bed. The slap of his hand against my cheek left my skin burning. My hands instinctively clutched my throbbing cheek. My tears ground to a halt, stifling my cries. I would not give him the satisfaction of knowing the physical pain he inflicted on me. I wouldn’t be that woman.

Henry bent down kissed me on my forehead and walked out of our room.

“I might recommend you being in a better frame of mind when I return.” He called from the landing.

I brought my knees up to my chest and clung to them, swaying back and forward trying to hold on to all of my raging emotions.

The front door startled me when it slammed shut.

History may well have been repeating itself.

Chapter 5

I picked up my phone and dialled Lucy. I am not sure what I was looking for. Some sort of comfort. A familiar voice. Company.

“Hey Luce”

“Hey honey, what’s up?”

“I am engaged and he has just walked out for a fourteen night meeting away, I don’t even know where he is going”

“Engaged? Are you crazy, I thought you weren’t even sure what you wanted anymore?”

“I know but maybe I am being picky, I mean the grass isn’t always greener I guess.”

“Honey, try and get your head straight and do what feels right, no one will judge you, we all understand that Henry is hard to be with.”

“Okay, I’ll see you tonight though?”

“Of course, do you want me to come over?”

“No I am fine, honestly, just needed to vent, see you tonight.”

“See you then.”

I spent the rest of my day in my studio feeling extremely hurt, the pain seemed to spur on my determination for my canvas and the piece I had been working on for the past three months was suddenly getting nearer to completion. The GooGoo Dolls blared through the speakers. Pain, hurt, emotional turmoil only fuelled on my creativity. Perhaps all of this was for a reason. It allowed me to paint, to feel. I stepped back from it, I was contented. Glancing down at the time I realised it was five. I closed my studio for the night. Tonight I was going to have fun with my friends. I was going to be liberated.

I ran the hot tap and laced the bath with bubbles. I slipped off my clothes and slid down into the comfort of the warm soapy water and for once I felt remarkably relaxed. Henry was gone, for fourteen whole days and I felt a sense of release. Like a restrictive weight had been lifted from me. For those next fourteen days I could be simply Evie, no pretences, just me.

I walked into my closet skimming through the rails of conservative dresses. Nothing really captured my mood. They were pretty, but nothing sexy, nothing empowering. Henry loved me to look classy, classy being covered from head to toe, with not an ounce of sexual appeal. Well as he isn’t here I am going to wear what I want to. Feeling defiant I moved the shoe boxes of old photographs and there is was. My black cocktail dress that I had hidden waiting patiently for its comeback. Hell yeah, I was going to enjoy wearing this.

I slipped it over my head and as I looked in the mirror I felt sexy and empowered. It clung to my body in all the right places. Although it was very fitted it was still very tasteful. It fell to my knee and had a one shouldered neckline. My cleavage and legs may have been covered but the contours of my body were on show, not leaving much to the imagination. For one night I was going to dress how I wanted to. I knew Henry would drag me back in the house and make me change if he saw me in this, but he wasn’t here. So tuff shit. And I needed this. I needed control over myself. Even if it was for fourteen short days.

I slipped on my five inch Emerald green Gucci stilettos and closed the door behind me, tonight was going to be my night.

* * *

The atmosphere of smoke consumed my lungs; the smell of alcohol was overwhelming. I walked slowly down the stairs one by one in to the dimly lit underground room. Music was pounding and the vibrations from the base could be felt through my body. Everything about this club was what I needed. A tropical themed bar covered in bamboo and frangipanis ran along the length of the left hand side of the room. Cocktail menus rested along the bar with exotic fruits placed intermittently between piles of freshly gleaming glassware along the back wall. I edged my way through the bodies of suited men and women in dressed in attire which all had the same theme. High hemlines and low necklines. Every delectable bachelor had at least two women lingering anxiously on their arms. Listening to their every word, trying to sound impressed, using their wide vocabulary of ooohs and ahhhs from their heavily glossed lips.

This was the downfall of coming to an exclusive London nightclub. Women were ushered through the doors as long as they seemingly had the right appearance for the club. Whereas men had to be influential, powerful or wealthy to be allowed through the doors. This only concluded to a dangerous mix of women trying to find themselves a rich man to fill them with five hundred pound bottles of champagne.

As I edged through the clusters of people I saw Alexis standing with Jake. Jake was one of Lex’s oldest friends, he was boisterous and charming with one hell of a sense of humor. The only downfall with Jake, he was a male slut. Anything with legs and tits he would leave with, fuck, disappear and never call them again. Typical testosterone fuelled lust fucking.

Her arms swung around me. “Yay Evie, you made it” Air kissing my cheeks.

“Happy Birthday Lex!”

“I know, I’m a proper grown up! I can drink even drink in America now, how cool is that.” She looked around curiously “Where is Henry?”,

“Don’t ask”. I offered bluntly hoping she would take the hint and leave it there.

“Hey Jake.” I turned and offered him a quick peck on the cheek.

“Looking very sexy Evie, if you weren’t with Henry I so would,” He winked.

It was so cringe worthy but Jake just exuded charm that you couldn’t help but smile at him.

“Well I sooo wouldn’t, so that wouldn’t get you very far now would it.” I returned to him, flashing a winning wink back.

“Such a heart breaker” He pulled a pathetic attempt of a frown.

“Where is everyone else Lex?” I glanced around just double checking that I wasn’t being oblivious.

“Luce is on her way here with Travie, Callum, Mitch and Connor”.

“Wow, that’s a choice of men for you tonight eh Lex” I giggled as she flushed red.

Lex had always had a thing for Callum but had refused to surrender to temptation. She saw him as no better than Jake and refused to get involved with anything one that thought with his dick.

“Ha very funny, our table downstairs is nearly ready then we can go. I have some buffet food coming out in an hour or so.” She looked at me, her brows frowning, “and I suggest you eat something before you start drinking, we know what a lousy drunk you are.”

Jake let out a snigger and Lex chimed in with her girlish giggles.

“I am not that bad, come on.” I whined.

“Whatever you say sis, whatever you say.”

We made our way downstairs to the lower floor after we had been informed that Lex’s private booth was ready. I had already had one strawberry daiquiri and I swear I already felt tipsy, not that I was going to inform Lex or Jake of that. They would only rip the piss out of me. I don’t think they are ever going to let me forget that night.

So what if I go completely shitfaced on three glasses of wine, skipped down Clapham High street, got my heel stick in a drain and took the drain away with me, clipping myself in the leg, gashing it open and ending up in hospital needing nine stitches. Happens to everyone once in their life?

The room was crowded with bodies as they moved to the music in such close proximity. Extravagant arm movements swinging through the ultraviolet glare of the lights. A sense of sexual tension engulfing the floor.

The Hawaiian theme continued on this level. Though this area had far more of an underground club feel to it. With the dance floor taking centre placement, booths circled it allowing the men to focus of the centralised dancing female forms. I squeezed through the damp bodies hand in hand with Lex. I must have lost count of how many times my ass was grabbed, no doubt Jake being the main culprit. As we broke through to the other side of the dance floor we arrive at our booth. Black leather cushioned seating with fishbowls full of alcohol on the table. We shifted around the booth when I went to pour a glass from the fishbowl. Lex grabbed my hand.

“No you don’t, not until you have eaten.”

“Seriously Lex, anyone would think you were the older sister.” I sulked hoping she would change her mind. Yep, that wasn’t working.

“Hey Evie” I stood up to kiss Lucy on the cheek, “This is Travie” she indicated to the guy standing on her left very demurely with her eyes. Not that she had to; I would have picked it up by the way he had his arm slung around her shoulders. So this was her completely fuckable best night ever man, I giggled to myself.

I reached out my hand, “nice to meet you Travie”.

“You too”. He was very handsome with dark brown eyes, almost jet back hair and a golden glow to his skin.

“Nice.” I whispered into Lucy’s ear.

“You know Callum and this is Mitch. They are in the band with Travie.” Luce continued.

“Callum knows Travie?” I questioned.

“Yeah, small world hey.” She pulled a clueless face.

Callum was Callum, not as much of a womaniser as Jake but he had his fair share of skirt. He was completely infatuated with Lex, but she wasn’t having any of it. He had sandy blond hair with pretty blue eyes. He was the ‘pretty boy’ out of all of the guys; really, he modeled in the Burberry Brit campaigns and for YSL.

“Hey you wanna drink?” Luce whispered to me.

“I wish, Lex has me on house arrest until I have eaten.”

She sniggered at the recollection of me pissed and then pulled her ‘so what’ face.

She grabbed my hand and dragged me to the bar.

“Four sambuca shots please,” she called over to the barman.

“Here you go love, that’all be eighteen pounds”.

She handed him a twenty, “keep the change”.

“Oooh Lex is gonna kill you” I giggled, “such a bad, bad, influence Lucy”.

Lucy winked. “Ready Evie, 1,2,3”. The strong flavour of aniseed worked its way through my mouth down to the back of my throat, leaving behind a lingering warm trail.

“Again, one, two, three” I necked the next one, I wasn’t a big drinker, well I didn’t think so. The main reason being that I was notoriously bad at handling my drink. And that Henry didn’t like me drinking. He found it irresponsible and tasteless for a woman to be intoxicated. Blah blah blah. Cocktails were my preference; wine would normally go to my head and turn me into an emotional spinster or a drunken ASBO.

As the Sambuca warmed my body I started to feel happy, I was confident, I was me.

We moved to the dance floor and my body started to feel and move with the music, my hips swayed and my arms moved through the air. Kings of Leon were playing, sex of fire heating the dance floor. I grinded my hips to the undercurrent base of the music, trailing my hands down my body. I felt sexual and I was taking advantage of my mood. Especially as it was fuelled by alcohol.

“That’s my sister, Evie”.

The comment grabbed my attention. Who was Lex talking to? I turned around and my mouth nearly hit the floor. It was him, my shoulder to cry on. Shit, shitteddy, shit. I smiled over briefly, but carried on dancing. I did not want to be left alone with him. He must already think I am a complete broken down pre-menstrual hormonal mess with a ton of baggage. Lucy caught onto my reaction and my apparent lack of enthusiasm for seeing him.

“Mmmmhmmm, I definitely would, wouldn’t you Evie” smirking.

“No I wouldn’t, I’m with Henry and you are bloody well with Travie”.

“Yeah but a girl can dream. Good to keep our options open.”

Lucy and I carried on dancing and I was aware of him watching at me. I felt his eyes boring into my skin as if I had been put on a pedestal for his eyes alone to consume my body. I did not usually welcome the attention… but…I could make this interesting, the sinister part of my mind fuelling my need to rebel. If he wanted to watch me then maybe I should give him something to watch. The alcohol was working, removing all of my usual inhibitions. I swayed my hips, arching my back ever so slightly to make the curve in my buttocks more dramatic and my breasts more defined. Feeling brave I deliberately held onto his deep wanting gaze. Not allowing myself to break eye contact as I slowly ran my fingers from around the back of my neck, sensually down along the ridge of my collar bone. His lips parted. His focus intense and not breaking from my body. Oh I was having an effect on him. This was beyond liberating.

I continued the tour of my fingers, trailing them over my fully clothed breasts. My dress highlighting their silhouette. I then ran my fingers further down following the curve of my waist and over my hips. I closed my eyes for a split second, allowing myself to enjoy the erotic trail of my fingers. When they opened my eyes my heart skipped a beat. There he was; standing right in front of me. My pulse raced. Our eyes pressing into one another. His hands brushed against my hips. The shudder of energy that pulsed through me was exhilarating.

Without speaking a word I turned away from him, his hands dropped from my body. The longing of his touch was too overwhelming. I needed it. Glancing over my shoulder I bit my lower lip. His chest was raging with movement. I could see his heart beating against his white shirt. I took a step back and pressed my body into his. Grinding my hips with him to the music. His strong arms wrapped around me placing the palm of his hands on my abdomen. There was no way of me not noticing his ripped biceps and stone hard chest, he was exquisite. I lifted my arms up and laced the around his neck, connecting our bodies as closely as physically possible. Wanting to feel his warm skin against mine. I could feel how much he wanted me. His erection pressed against my lower back. Knowing that he wanted me made me feel powerful and sexy, something I had not felt in a very long time. I closed my eyes and just let our bodies move with each other to the music. It was rhythmic bliss. Our bodies were as one. No one else mattered.

As the song ended something in me awoke to the reality of our surroundings. I stepped out of our clinch and saw Lucy. Her mouth ajar and eyes wide, standing completely bemused at what she had just seen. I grabbed her hand and dragged her to the bar before she could utter a word. I locked eyes with Alexis and she followed us over.

“Another six Sambuca shots please.” I was practically begging the bar man. I needed these now. There was no way I was going to get through this night sober.

I handed two to Luce and two to Lex and we downed them.

As the Sambuca hit me and I started to feel calmer, my actions began to seem more justified.

We walked back over to our table. He was gone, nowhere to be seen. Although I was relived part of me was saddened, longing to feel his touch once again.

“Phew.” I muttered.

“I think I just witnessed full sex on the dance floor, my God that was hot Evie”. I cringed at Lucy’s recollection of my actions.

“Why was he asking after you?” Lex asked genuinely interested.

“Oh I just, um bumped into him once.”

Screams of voices gained my attention. I followed the growing crowd with my eyes. He had not gone. He was standing in the middle of the dance floor surrounded by a host of women screaming his name. Typical. Confused I looked at Alexis.

“Who is he?”

“Some fighter or something, He is friends with Travie.”

Fighter? That explained his frame and his raw rugged look.

“Not just any fighter Evie”, Jake shouted over, “he is Conner Ryan, the next big thing to hit the MMA. He is going to be world class.”

“MMA?” I questioned, what the hell was that?

“Mixed Martial Arts, it’s like a toned down version of cage fighting, UFC all of that”. Jake summed up, not that I knew much other than he must have been a fighter, the closest I get to knowing about and fighting sports is the Haymaker. Jake seemed ridiculously excited by the fact Connor was here and Travie knew him, like he was his very own fighting celebrity who he wanted to be-friend.

“Oh okay” I mused. Hot, Half naked, sweaty, muscles clenching.

“Where did you run off too?” his sultry tone slid over the words as he whispered into my ear from behind me. I turned around and met his gaze. He was stunning. Masculine in every form. His voice was raw, sinfully sexy and his body was ripped to just the right point, not over bearing, just right. He was wearing a white shirt with rolled up sleeves, they gripped around his toned biceps. He exuded charisma and charm. I completely understood why all of those women were screaming his name. I would love too. I shook the thought from my head.

My eyes were objectifying his body and I didn’t care. The club was chaotic, but all I could focus on was him.

“Wow, you look amazing Evie, and you felt even better,” He winked at me.

I blushed, the warm sensation of flush covering my cheeks was an obvious sign. It was suddenly getting ridiculously hot in here.

“Thanks, I, I um” why was I so nervous? I must have sounded like a babbling baboon. Just talk like a normal adult human being, I felt myself screaming in my head.

“Are you avoiding me Evie?” His head tilted to the side awaiting my response.

“No, I, I am just a little embarrassed about yesterday.” And our mating dance we just performed in front of all of my friends, while I am ENGAGED.

“Don’t be, you okay though? You seemed pretty upset.”

I raised my left hand to tuck the loose stray of hair behind my ear.

“So you’re engaged then?” His face tensing as he bit the words out. He was glaring at the ring on my finger.

“Yes, as of yesterday.” I tried to offer a genuine smile but I couldn’t. His eyes focused back on mine like he was trying to see my most intimate thoughts and feelings. It was completely un-nerving.

“You don’t seem overly happy about it, is that why you were crying yesterday?”

“Look you know nothing about me, don’t try and assume you do or question my relationship.” I snapped at him. I stepped to turn away and I felt a hand around my upper arm.

He pulled me towards him. “I am sorry, I didn’t mean to pry. You are just far too perfect to be upset over a man.”

This was too much, I needed air. My chest was constricting my breath. “I have to go”. I pulled my arm from his grasp and started walking towards the exit. I kept focus on the red illuminated exit sign directing me to the stairs. I tried to squeeze through the crowds but I was being pushed and pulled. I lost my footing and the next body to barge me knocked me off of my feet.

I felt myself being scoped up into two strong arms. The alluring scent of him confirmed that these were Connor’s arms. I buried my head into his chest. He smelt amazing, primal. I opened my eyes when I felt the cool fresh air over my body. I looked into Connor’s eyes and could feel my soul aching for him. His eyes were wide burning into mine.

“Thank you, you really don’t need to be so kind to me,” I said softly.

“What if I want to?” He whispered gently.

“I really should go.”

He set me down onto my feet. I turned on my heels and started to walk, quite unevenly I might add. I had only taken a few steps when I heard footsteps pacing behind me. I glanced over my shoulder to see that Connor was following me.

“What are you doing?” I exclaimed.

“Making sure you get home safely. I can’t have you walking by yourself in central London, it’s not safe”.

“Honestly I will be fine, I am walking to the end of Piccadilly and will pick up a cab from there.”

“Let me drive you home?”

I sniggered. Not the most attractive sound to make in this instance, but it was automatic to his ridiculous proposal.

“Surely if you are worried about my safety and well being then it would be very irresponsible of me to get into a car with a strange man and let him drive me home, alone”.

“Good point Evie, I’ll just in the cab with you then we will have a chaperone”.

My mouth dropped open. He couldn’t be serious, could he?

“Can you take me to Oakfield Drive, Chelsea please?”

“No problem Ma’am, jump on in”

“Look Connor, it was very kind of to walk me here but you really don’t have to escort me home, see you around.”

He stood in front of the open back door to the cab not allowing me to get inside, “I thought we had already established that I will be talking you home and this lovely gentleman will be our chaperone”.

He climbed into the cab and put out his hand for me to take. I don’t know what possessed me to do so but I slipped my hand into his and climbed in.

“Well that was hardly gentlemanly; shouldn’t you let the woman get in first?”

“For one I was not giving you the chance of getting in before me to drive off. Secondly” he lowered his voice to an almost whisper “I don’t think my heart could take the strain of you bending over in front of me in that dress.” My mouth dropped open, I was completely silenced. Not letting go of my hand we began our journey back to my home.

My mind was wandering. Trying to piece together the evening’s events and pin point the moment which was the catalyst for me ending up in the back of a black cab, hand in hand with Connor Ryan.

“You’re quiet.” His eyes were looking at me intently awaiting an answer.

“Just a long night I suppose, I’m not a great drinker.”

His mouth widened showcasing his bright white, orthopaedics dream smile. A flutter of emotions stirred in my stomach. My body confirming the lustful reaction I felt towards him.

His fingers began to entwine with mine. With his free hand he played with my engagement ring, frowning at each movement it made under his touch. He seemed deep in thought, contemplating the gravity of what this ring symbolised to me.

Chapter 6

“Thank you for the drive sir, how much will that be?” Connor called over to the driver.

“Twenty six pounds Sir.”

He pulled out his black leather wallet and handed thirty pounds over to the cab driver, “keep the change sir, the drive has been worth every penny.”

I stood there, my mouth ajar, again, at what had just happened. Connor looked over and winked.

“Thank you for escorting me home Connor, it was very kind of you. Will you be ok getting home?”

“Not a problem Evie, and yes I will be fine getting home.”

“Where are you going?” I found myself asking, not wanting our chance meeting to end.

“Clapham Common”

“Why didn’t you stay in the cab?”

“I’m gonna walk, think I need some time to think before I am hounded by Travie and the band.”

I giggled, “You can crash in the spare bedroom if you want?” I was reacting on impulse nothing less. What the hell was wrong with me? My head tried to reason but I would not listen, something about him being here with me just felt right. All common sense quarantined behind closed doors pushed to the back of my mind.

“Will your fiancé not mind?” He asked.

“He is away on business, again, so no he won’t mind.”

Not pressing me on my comment he simply said “That would be great”.

I pushed the key into the lock and turned it. I pushed the door open and threw down my keys onto the side table, kicking off my heels. Ahh, that felt amazing.

“I’ll show you up.”

I walked cautiously up our staircase acutely aware that Connor was walking behind me. I tried to walk as seamlessly as possible without overtly looking like I was wiggling my ass and giving him the green light. When we reached the top of the staircase I walked to the spare bedroom and opened the door. One of the five ‘spare’ bedrooms. Out of them all this was the most comfortable, with its own en-suite. It was also the one furthest away from my bedroom. As I had already been acting on impulse this evening, the more distance my body could have away from Connor’s the better.

“Let me know if you need anything”, I smiled and turned to walk out of the room.

“Good night Evie”, he called as I pulled the door to.

* * *

I was woken by the sound of my own screams. Sweat was pouring from every crevice of my body. My eyes were swollen and I couldn’t stop the tears from spilling onto my pillow case. My heart raced. Panic erupted. I looked around the room trying to focus. As I realised my whereabouts I began to calm enough to realise it had been a dream, a bad dream. They used to be a Nightly ritual until I met Henry. The last time I had one was four weeks ago. It was the last time Henry hit me.

Within an instant my door swung open, Connor came rushing over, scooping me up into a hug. His tender fingers repetitively stroking my face gently. I sat encaged in the arms of Connor sobbing endlessly. My head pressed against his bare chest. Tears spilling uncontrollably.

“Sssshh… sssshh, it’s okay. What’s wrong Evie, what happened?”

I could tell he was genuinely scared. I couldn’t talk. My speech impaired by the quiver of my lips. My body tremouring into submission. My words lost to the shock of my dream.

Connor engulfed me further in to his arms, caressing my back with his thick fingers. The sensation was surreal. My body started to unwind under his touch. My breathing began to regulate under his sweet embrace. My body melted into his arms.

“Talk to me sweetheart.” The way he used that term of endearment so naturally made the hairs on the nape of my neck stand to attention.

“I just had a bad dream”.

“Must have been one hell of a bad dream, you scared the shit outta me,”

I nodded in agreement.

Connor walked out of my room and I was left feeling deflated. I didn’t want to be alone. I didn’t want to close my eyes and see him again, tormenting me with his vulgar smile.

“Hey you okay?” he said as he walked over to me. With one single movement he had scooped me up into his strong bare arms and carried me to my bathroom. Steam was rising from the hot bubble bath.

“I thought you may want a bath? I heard lavender is calming, so I poured some of it into the water. Thought it might be what you need.”

“Thank you.” This was the first time in years I had felt special or taken care of. Without thinking I dropped my silk night dress to the floor. Stepping out of it and straight into the bath. The water was sublime, encasing my body into the milky warmth of my surroundings. Sweet lavender scented the air bringing my mind back in to peace.

“I should um go. Shit sorry. I didn’t do this to see you, you know, naked”. He turned his back to me and started to walk out of the bathroom. Wow. Under the glow of full light, Connor looked physically sensational standing just in his black boxer shorts. His back was tightly toned. I wondered what it would feel like to trace my fingers over every inch of his body.

“It’s ok, I know you didn’t. I should have thought too. Would you mind sitting with me though? I could do with the company. I don’t want to be alone.”

He pulled a towel from the rail and placed it on the honey gold oak flooring. He slouched down resting his back against the white tiled wall with his knees bent and arms resting on top of them.

“Do you want to talk about it?”

I hesitated. Did I want to talk about it?

“Every now and then, I see his face, I just have flash backs. Not often, but they catch me off guard. I am sorry I scared you, I didn’t mean to scream the house down.”

“Don’t ever apologies Evie. You said you see his face, who is he?” The tone of Connors voice was bitter. I could pin point the moment each muscle in his body clenched. The white of his knuckles pressing through his tightly bound skin. His eyes darkening with apparent protection for me.

“Is it ok if we don’t talk about this? It’s history and I really don’t want to drag it up.”

I could see he wanted to ask more. He didn’t press me though. Anger in his eyes, but he respected my wishes. I was touched by his interest in asking what my dream had been about. It was heart warming to see his reaction to my misfortune. I had told no one the details of that day, not even Henry. And I wanted to keep it that way. Henry never pried, when I had woken up in a similar way previously he accepted my explanation of it being a bad dream. He never asked any further so I never told him. I didn’t lie, it had just been a bad dream, a horrifically bad dream. I just never elaborated. As his violence was the trigger I didn’t want him having anymore of a hold over me. My memories were just that, memories, not his hold over my life.

I tilted my head back dropping all of my hair into the water. Losing my eyes and feeling the water glide over me. As I lifted back up I saw Connor’s eyes watching me. He was sat right next to the bath. Just inches from me; completely naked. I checked the positioning of the bubbles. Relived to have confirmation I was covered by them. He silently reached over and lifted the shampoo bottle from the side. He tipped it allowing the creamy liquid to pool into his huge palm.

“Let me” the words rolled from his tongue so softly. I wanted his touch so I nodded. His hands sunk into my wet hair massaging the shampoo into my scalp and throughout the lengths of my long brunette hair. His touch was firm but gentle. I couldn’t help but let out a moan as my body melted under his touch. His hands paused for a moment as I heard his breathing increase, he had felt it too. I imagined his motions playing out over various parts of my body. Firm enough to warrant mind blowing orgasms, but gentle enough to know he was caring for my body. A heavy pulsing sensation crept between my legs. My body was eager for him but my head knew I was with Henry.

“I’m going to get washed and then get out now”, I smiled hoping he would take the hint.

“I’ll wait outside for you.”

I stood up and reached for the soft newly laundered fluffy cream towel and wrapped it around my body. The scent of vanilla covering my damp skin. Looking into the mirror I saw my reflection, for once I wasn’t shocked by my reflection, something had changed. I looked happy. Intoxicated but happy. I was thinking about Connor. I wiped away my thoughts and slipped on a fresh night dress from the cupboard. As I walked out through the bathroom door I could see Connor standing there in the hall, back pressed firmly against the wall. Patiently awaiting me. His eyes widened and mouth parted as he looked over the silk and lace which hung from my body. The silky midnight blue fabric clung to my breasts finishing just below my buttocks, edged in delicate lace. I felt empowered by the reaction I was causing Connor to have. I glanced down and smirked as I saw a tent appear in his boxer shorts. He caught my gaze.

“Shit, sorry, um” he blushed and turned around muttering something to himself.

“It’s ok, don’t worry about it”. I smiled at him and touched his arm. The touch sent surges of intense lusting through me. I may have felt it but I would never indulge in it, I was not that kind of woman.

Connor followed me into my bedroom. As I slipped into my brass king size bed I saw Connor standing in the doorway. He looked deep in contemplation. The light flicked off.

Footsteps crept towards my bed and I felt Connor slip under the sheets and lie down next to me. I curled onto my side, my back to him. He pressed his body against mine, wrapping his arms around my waist pulling me tighter into him. Our fingers entwined. Our bodies as one.

“I’m here with you, don’t be scared just close your eyes and sleep.”

His soft lips met with the nape of my neck. “Goodnight Evie”.

My eyes fluttered and I drifted off into a peaceful sleep, he made me feel safe. This was my serenity.

Chapter 7

I awoke to the sunlight breaking through the sheer silk of the bedroom curtains. The heat of the morning rays against my skin made it unbearable to lie here any longer. I felt the comfort of two strong arms holding me tightly. His warm skin pressed against mine. I glanced behind me and saw Connor peacefully asleep. I edged my way out of his arms trying cautiously not to wake him. As I slipped out of bed I ran to the bathroom.

Reality intrudes, crashing down around me. This is far beyond my rational way of thinking. I have a man in my bed, a man who is in any case not Henry. How the hell could I have done this? I ran the cold faucet and splashed cold water across my burning forehead trying in desperation to wake myself up from this dream of purgatory. I had to deal with the consequences of my unjustified, oestrogen fuelled, intoxicated state of despair ridden actions and remove Connor from my bed. Immediately.

“Mornin Evie.” He said in a half-asleep slur as I walked back into my bedroom.

“Hey.” I paused hesitantly, “look, thank you for last night and looking after me, but this really cannot happen. You shouldn’t be in my bed and that was wrong of me for letting you”.

“It’s ok Evie, I would never take advantage of you. I just wanted to look after you. Do you want to talk about your dream?”

“It’s nothing, honestly, just a few bad memories” I paused for a moment, “I need you to go”. I had a look of sincerity in my eyes, I needed him to know I was serious. That he couldn’t be here with me.

“Look Evie”,

I interrupted him. “No I am sorry, I really am, but my life is pretty fucked up as it is and I can’t have you here. I need you to go. Please”. I didn’t want him to go, but he had too. I couldn’t have this moral debate with myself. Rational reason had prevailed. Connor sleeping in my bed was wrong.

The hurt in his eyes pained me. I wanted to take back my words, but I couldn’t. I wouldn’t do this to Henry or myself.

Conner stepped out of my bed and walked to the spare room. I heard him dress and walk back along the hall, the footsteps stopped outside my bedroom door.

“I’m here if you need me Evie”, then he left.

I heard the front door close and I knew that was it. He was gone.

Chapter 8

I walked downstairs into the lounge and flipped open my laptop.

1 new email:

To: Everline Cross

From: Henry Webber

21st September 2012

11.58pm

Hey Baby,

Just to let you know I got arrived here well. I have arranged the booking of the wedding. It will be on October 18th at Botleys Mansion, Mother has contacts. While I am away why not go dress shopping and organise the bridesmaid dresses. Mother is sorting the caterers and flowers, you just need the dresses.

Love You

Henry

He means next month, four weeks until we get married, is he kidding me.

To: Henry Webber

From: Everline Cross

22nd September 2012

8.38am

Hi Henry,

Are you referring to our wedding being next month? In 4 weeks? It’s a little fast wouldn’t you say? Can we do it perhaps next year?

Where are you staying?

Love me

He must have got it wrong, he must mean next year. There is no way that could be right. Surely?

I wandered into the kitchen and flicked on the kettle, as it boiled I poured some cereal and began munching on my juvenile chocolaty pops. I strolled into the front room with my freshly made hot cup of tea and flicked on the television. Day time tv, urgh, nothing worse. Chat shows discussing who is doing who, who hates who or who’s the daddy…. My laptop alerted me to a mew message.

To: Everline Cross

From: Henry Webber

22nd September 2012

9.06am

Yes next month, what is the point of waiting? Mother informs me you have an appointment at the bridal shop on Wellington Street at 11am, Lucy and Alexis will meet you there, it has all been arranged If you feel it is too soon then perhaps you don’t want to marry me, do you Everline?

Staying in Goa

Love You

Henry

To: Henry Webber

From: Everline Cross

22nd September 2011

9.10am

Hi Henry,

Sorry of course I want to marry you. I was just more aware of the time restraints, as wedding’s can take years to plan.

Love me

I bet ‘mother’ has arranged everything, interfering old hag.

* * *

I walked along Wellington Street until I arrived at the bridal shop Henry’s mother had organised to meet me at. As I stood in front of the boutique I wanted to turn and run in response. It was a ghastly, over the top designer wedding dress shop. Goudy white mock pillars adorned the entrance. A line up of meringue style dresses lined the full length glass windows. The only thing that would keep me sane today is the company of Lucy and Alexis.

As I walked inside I was greeted by the pretentious ‘Susie’ as her name tag clearly displayed.

“Hi I’m Suzie, darhling, Henry and Vivienne said that you need a ready to wear dress for next month. Vivienne has whittled down her choices, if you got through to the changing room you can start trying them on.”

I walked through to the changing room, confused as to how ‘mother’ was picking out my wedding dress.

I slipped on the first dress. Slipped was to polite a word. It was in reality, rustle, squeeze and manoeuvre the twenty layers of tulle and organza over my slight frame. When I saw my reflection in the mirror I couldn’t contain myself. Laughter spilled from my lungs. I look absolutely ridiculous. 1980’s toilet roll cover, had nothing on this dress. All I needed was a poodle perm and I would be ready. It was huge, tacky and covered in little crystals, everywhere.

“Everything alright in there Evie?” I heard Lucy call, “What’s so funny?”

As I stepped out of the changing room into the viewing area a surge of laughter filled the room. Lex and Luce were quite literally in fits of gut wrenching laughter at the sight of me. I couldn’t help it but I surcame to their behaviour and started poking fun at the horrendous dress. ‘Mother’ was not impressed, she was clearly livid with our behaviour and Suzie, the shop keeper, seemed to share her thoughts.

“Why don’t you try on something else darhling.” Susie interjected, trying to diffuse the ridicule of laughter. I glanced through the rails of dresses. They were not me. They were not too far from hideous. I couldn’t bear to fight into another of these dresses.

I walked back into the changing room and pulled the layers of fabric from my skin as quickly as humanly possible. Slipping back into my clothes and walked out of the changing room.

“Vivienne, it was lovely to see you, but none of those dresses are quite ‘me’, I am going to take my bridesmaids and confer wedding plans over a light lunch with lots of alcohol. Do excuse us”.

Vivienne looked like she was ready to gouge my eyes out. Her mouth tight and eyes staring straight into me. I took the opportunity to swiftly walk out of the bridal boutique with Lex and Lucy running behind me giggling like mindless school girls.

“Where to bridesmaids?”

“Let’s go back to mine, I have a bottle of wine and we can order in Chinese, who needs light lunches”. With that we walked to my car and headed to Lex’s.

Chapter 9

“Sooooo, and don’t say nothing, as that is not going to cut it. How the hell did Connor end up back at yours?”

I nearly choked on my chow mein, “What, how? How did you know? Nothing happened.” I hastily added.

“Evie, we know nothing happened, we know you aren’t like that but you sure did something to Connor. Travie said he came home in a foul mood. What’s up Evie, what happened?” Evie and Alexis both looked at me with excitement in their eyes. Bloody gossips.

“He escorted me home because he thought it wasn’t safe for me to go alone.”

A unanimous “aaahh” came surging from both of them.

“I said he might as well stay because he had was going to walk back home. In the spare room of course. Then I woke up screaming…”

“Another Dream?”

“Yeah, I was shaking and crying. Connor came running in and calmed me. He ran me a bath and then held me for the rest of the night so I could sleep. I felt so safe. When we woke I panicked and told him he had to go, he looked so upset”.

“He is Evie, he told Travie that he doesn’t know why but you have got to him and he just wanted to be there for you”.

Alexis understood why I pushed him away; she was four years younger than me and understood the need to push away help. She had done it to me for years after our mother’s death.

“He really likes you,” Luce added with a wink, her look exuded filthy, filthy thoughts.

“I am getting married in four weeks, to the man I have been with for three years. I cannot even entertain the idea of having a wild sordid affair, or even leaving him for that matter. For what? Who else would want me this fucked up? I have no job, no career and no family, except you of course Lex.” I added. “Without him I have nothing.” I whispered, “I am nothing.”

Luce was furious, anger steamed from her face. “Don’t you ever say that, don’t you see it, he has you where he wants you, no job, no career, who does that to someone? Huh! He is a spineless prick. You know it and I know it. I love you Evie but this man is unhealthy”.

I fell into flood of tears. “Look I have to marry him, he is all I know and he is a good man, please just support me and be there for me.”

Lucy stood up abruptly and grabbed her bag, “you better be damn sure you know what you’re doing Evie. If you marry him that is your choice. I will always be your friend and I will support you through it but I am telling you, know you’re wrong to do this”.

She stormed past us and walked out of Lex’s apartment slamming the door behind her.

Lex wrapped her arms around me, “It’s ok honey, I will always be here for you, both of us will, she is just worried for you. She doesn’t want you to be un-happy, neither of us do”.

“I know”. I let out a sigh. Deep down I knew Lucy was right. I just didn’t have the strength to leave. I suppose part of me was doing it for selfish reasons as I knew I would have nothing if I walked away. The worst part was I worried that no one would ever want me. Connor may have had feelings for me, but I was not prepared to lose my life on a whim.

* * *

It was dark when I pulled into our drive. I opened the front door walked through to the lounge and collapsed onto the sofa. I turned on my laptop.

To: Everline Cross

From: Henry Webber

22nd September 2012

9.10pm

Everline,

I have just spoken with mother and I am furious with the tone that you took with her in the bridal boutique. You talk to her with nothing but respect. Do not under any circumstances embarrass me or her like that again. I am warning you Everline.

Henry

Bollocks, this is why I shouldn’t get brave with Henry or Vivienne. I find the bond they share a little too intense but she is his mother and I have to learn to live with that. I have to pacify him, I was completely and utterly wrong for disrespecting his mother.

To: Henry Webber

From: Everline Cross

22nd September 2012

10.09pm

Sorry Henry, I am so so sorry, please forgive me. The dresses were simply not to my taste but I could of course have composed myself in a more respectful manner. I will make sure in future I am nothing but polite to your mother and will of course apologise to her for my outburst. Would it be possible if I could pick out my dress with my bridesmaids alone, it seems to be the only thing I can of course get to choose.

Yours

Evie

To: Everline Cross

From: Henry Webber

22nd September 2012

10.11pm

Yes, I will inform Mother.

Henry

Chapter 10

The next week flew by in no time at all and I found myself wishing I had just a few more days left of being me. I spent my days creating in my studio or seeing Lex and Luce. Today I was unexpectedly excited. I was going to the new Jenny Packham boutique and their dresses depicted everything I loved about Wedding’s.

Focusing my energy on the wedding gave my life some sort of purpose for the moment so I was allowing myself to enjoy this momentary bliss. After apologising to Vivienne, Henry had allowed me to have more input towards the flower choice and table linens. It was so rewarding to have input into the finer details of our wedding.

* * *

I pulled up outside Lucy’s and beeped the horn. Lucy opened her door a kissed a half naked Travie goodbye. Lucy had a fabulous apartment in the on trend borough of Fulham. She had worked ridiculously hard have the luxury of owning it. Lucy ran her own Graphic design company, they were filled to the brim with corporate clientele begging to use her company’s services. She was the best in London and everyone knew it. She was featured in numerous magazines being the born and breed London business woman of the year. The best quality Lucy exuded was her humbleness. She was not start struck, pretentious or anything other than the girl I had known since school. The successes of her company lead her to having a studio full of designers ready to meet demand allowing her to spread her wings and fly for her twelve month Globe trotting expedition.

“Things are going well then”, I said as she climbed into the passenger seat.

“Mmmmhmmm, too well, I am wondering where the catch is”.

“I am sure there isn’t one”.

Travie was in an indie rock band, he was the lead vocal and had such a sensual raspy voice. We were going to one of his more intimate gigs tonight at The Scene. I was really excited to see them play. First thing was first though, Wedding dress.

* * *

The door was held open for us as we walked through the modern glass fronted building. I looked around the showroom full of beautifully hand crafted gowns.

“My name is Claire, how may I help you today?” The pretty assistant smiled over. She was warm and considerate and exuded confidence.

“I get married in three weeks and need a dress, is that going to be possible?”

“Although we cannot have a custom made dress for you ready in time we do have a few readymade ones which you can choose from. I am guessing you are a size eight?”

“Yes”, I was quite impressed with her observation.

“Can I ask your name?”

“Oh, of course, I’m Evie.”

“Thank you. Evie if you follow me into the changing rooms I will bring out the selection we have in a size eight for you”.

“Thank you”. Wow this was amazing.

Claire led me through the boutique and Lucy trailed behind me, we were both in awe of the chandeliers, pastel damask wallpaper and soft plush furnishings. Claire indicated to a velvet pink chair for Lucy to sit on.

“I won’t be a moment.”

Claire disappeared through the deep plum crushed velvet curtains which disguised a doorway at the back of the couture boutique. Less than two minutes later she had arrived with a selection of three beautifully detailed dresses. As she hung them on the silver rail above me my eyes clung to one dress in particular, it was perfect, it was me.

“Can I try this one on first?” I couldn’t quite shade the eagerness from my voice.

Claire smiled at my enthusiasm, reached over and unhooked it from the cream satin hanger. As I stepped into the centre of the dress Claire helped lift it up over my hips and across my bust. I turned to look in the mirror as she buttoned the tiny silk buttons on the back of the dress. I let out a relieved sigh. This was it, this was ‘the one’. I traced my hands over the soft beaded lace and across the finely finished sweetheart neckline. It was beautifully vintage in design and was everything I had ever imagined my wedding dress to be. I imagined myself walking down the aisle, my dress flowing behind me. Gazing outwards at all of the guests. Seeing their smiling faces. As I walk to the end of the aisle I would stop just inches away from my groom, Connor.

I shook the absurd thought from my head.

“I’ll take this one please”,

“Are you sure you don’t want to try the others?” She giggled.

“Positive, I love it”. I had a huge grin on my face as I walked through the curtain into the showing area. Lucy looked up and I could see water fill her glistening eyes. Lucy never cries.

“You look stunning Evie, its perfect” she beamed over to me.

“It’s the one!”

I slipped out of the dress and reluctantly handed it to Claire.

“I will just pop this in its protective bag for you. If you get dressed and then head to the counter I will process it through the till for you”.

I felt so in awe of how beautiful that dress had made me feel. Bittersweet regret swamped me; I wish my mum was here to see me, to hold my hand. Silently I tilted my head back, looking up. The ceiling disintegrated from my view as I closed my eyes. I love you mum.

I walked over to the counter, giddy with excitement. I handed her my Mastercard and £2,500 was rung through. It was mine. Officially. Arm in arm Lucy and I walked out of the shop and headed back to hers to get ready for the gig.

* * *

“Where is Travie?”

“Him and the band are already at The Scene setting up and doing their sound check, so we have the place to ourselves. Lex is on her way over.”

A knock at the door sounded Alexis’ arrival.

“Hey baby sis,” I hugged her and kissed her on the cheek.

“I come baring gifts.” Lex held up two bottles of white wine and a bag of Doritos.

Lucy rushed over to her barely containing her excitement for her favourite past time, alcohol and junk food.

We laughed and giggled. Sipping on glasses of sparkling white wine and munching on the chilli heat wave of the Doritos. Dancing around Lucy’s front room in our undies to the blaring music which poured through her speakers, singing along. Badly. We must have sounded something between cats being strangled and nails dragging down along a chalk board. When it reached 7pm we realised we really did have to pull ourselves away from the mini-party we had started. We began to apply our make-up, all standing next to each other squeezing and huddling in front of the solitary mirror which was perched on top of the cream painted dressing table. My blue eyes outlined in smoky kohl, cheeks blushed with rose powder and finished with a light lavishing of nude lip-gloss.

“Mmmmhmmm so, who are you getting all sexy for?” Lucy smirked over to me.

“No one” I returned, almost too quickly, like a pre-fabricated response which gave me no room for error. “Just myself, you know, it’s nice to look, um… nice”.

Lucy and Lex glanced at each other, communicating purely through thought and eye signals, it was un-nerving. Fits of giggles erupted from them both.

“Sorry, just teasing, Connor’s not going to be there anyway”.

My heart skipped at the sound of his name. Flutters of emotions swarmed in my stomach. A moment of longing ebbed its way into my mind. Having the confirmation that Connor would not be there suddenly made my attempt at looking good feel worthless.

“Oh, so you wanted him there then?” Lucy had read my face.

“Leave her alone Luce” Lex playfully snapped over.

Finally we began to slip into our attire for the evening ahead. Lucy was wearing a plum coloured body-con dress. It was sexy as hell and she sure had the figure for it. If anyone could pull that look off it was her. Her curls fell to just below her shoulders. A glowing golden complexion accentuated her dark smoky eye make-up. Her legs we perfectly toned and seemed to go on forever until they met with her black Jimmy Choo strappy sandals.

Lex wore a blood red tulip dress, with a scooped neckline highlighting her perfectly formed chest. She had straightened her jet back hair and it contrasted so dramatically against her dress, falling just below her bust. She had finished her look with a pair of six inch platform ankle boots, she was rocking the look.

I was more reserved in my dress choice. Wearing a strapless knee length pencil dress, it was navy in colour and had a slight sheen to it which added a subtle edge of glamour. I finished my look with my nude patent Louboutin pumps and my gold clutch.

The cab horn sounded, making us aware of its presence.

“Ready?”

“Ready.”

“Let’s go.” I let out with a little squeal.

* * *

The Scene had a different vibe to Mahiki, it was sensual and a little more intimate, not the usual bustling club. This was more mature and inviting. There were clusters of people sat around tables in front of the stage. Dim lighting warmed the bold stage and the bands instruments were set up ready for them to play.

We streamlined through the collective audience until we arrived at our table. Travie, Mitch and Callum were sitting looking like the complete rock star package. Simple t-shirts with baggy jeans, tousled hair and sneakers, they took the sultry urban look to the new extreme.

“Jake and Connor are at the bar.” Travie called over to Lucy.

Connor? My heart started to thud against my chest, apprehensive about the impending meeting we were going to have. Lucy smirked at me seeing how flustered I had become after hearing his name.

“I thought he wasn’t coming” I hissed to Lucy. If I had know I could have prepared myself but thinking he was going to be an absent void in our evening allowed my body to surcome to the realisation that Connor was a lustful fantasy that my body yearned for.

“I didn’t think he was,” her voice full of sincerity. “Travie said Connor was reluctant to come because of the situation with you.”

Sadness filtered through my bloodstream. My mind jolted back to the memory of his face, torn, at my heartless request for him to leave.

“Hey Evie, you ok?” His voice made every hair on the nape of my neck stand to attention. His warm breath was inviting and sensual. My body was in tuned to his voice. Sweet desired pooling between my thighs.

“I’m good thanks Connor”, I smiled sweetly at him.

Connor turned and redirected his focused back on his discussion with Jake. My desire was short lived. He was blunt, not acknowledging my presence. His back formed a harsh outline, not that I had a right to expect anything else from him. I had kicked him out of my bed after he looked after me. I am such a bitch.

“The Urbs are gonna be fab aren’t they” Lucy beamed over too me, pride warming the excitement in her voice.

“I know, I can’t wait, do you want a drink, I’m just going the bar?”

“Half a shandy please gorgeous” and blew me a kiss.

“Lex do you want one?”

“Yeah please hun, a Malibu and pineapple please”.

I slipped away walking over to the bar. My body could not resist the urge to look over at Connor. I couldn’t quite contain my excitement. He was looking directly at me. Intense eyes seeking through to the core of my soul, yet still deep in conversation with Jake. I smiled meekly, his face stayed hard, no flinch of emotion showing. Completely unreadable.

The bar was heaving with queues of people. It seemed as if everyone in the club had decided to purchase a drink at the same moment as one another. It was packed, heaving with bodies tightly packed together. I tried to muscle in between two pretty large guys. The smell of odor was overpowering me. I took a step back feeling slightly light headed from the pungent mixture of stale beer, cigarettes and perspiration. I walked slightly further down the long dark wooden bar and managed to find a space just large enough for me to slip into.

“Whatcha having Miss?”

“Half a shandy, Malibu and pineapple and a sparkling white, thanks”.

I started to hum along to the voice of Kelly Clarkson, finding myself gently moving my body to her words. I gasped when I felt a hand slip around my waist. I would just have to tell Connor I meant no. My body tensed instantly as the hand rose to grope my breast. I glanced at it being repulsed by the sight of thick wiry hairs spraying from the hand. It wasn’t Connor. I started to quiver at the thought of an unknown man touching me. I tried to pull away from his grotesque movement but his vice like grip was hard and cold, pinning me into place. The volatile smell of stale whisky made my body shudder.

“Mmmhmmm you smell mighty fine, you tight little piece of ass”.

I tried to pull away again but the bar was so busy and loud no one realized my desperation.

“Get of me”, I said through clenched teeth, biting away my overwhelming desire to cry.

“Well that wouldn’t be fun now would it, especially with a body like this”, his hands traced my waist and moved to the curve of my buttocks.

I started to shake involuntary. Wishing for my mind to focus, contemplating the best way to remove myself from his grasp.

With a sudden movement his hands released me. I inhaled deeply filling my lungs with the much needed oxygen that I was restricting them from in his hold. I pivoted around to see Connor standing between me and the jack-ass. Connors first clenched and tightened as he pulled his arm back. His bicep was tense, larger than I had ever seen before. His knuckles were as white as snow straining against his flesh. He released it and swung forward. With an echoing crack the spineless jerk was on the floor clutching his bloodied face. He whimpered, collectively gathering his feet together,

“Touch her again and I will kill you”, Connor hissed. His eyes seething with hatred for this spineless man placed in one the floor in front of us.

The bloodied man’s face fell with fear. He then stood up and fled from view.

Connor turned to face me. His eyes hued with gun metal grey. Stormy, full of anger. The intensity of our feelings open for one another to see. His arms engulfed me. Pulling me into his stone hard chest. Pressing against my breasts. His grip lessened at the realisation of my arms holding him back. Feeling his warm strong arms laced around my lower back, was like a cocoon protecting me from the outside world. I turned my head laying my cheek over his heart. Listening to the thrum of his heart beating vigorously.

“It’s ok Evie, I won’t let anyone hurt you”.

* * *

I climbed into my King size bed. Relieved to be home for the night. Nuzzling down into the crisp white Egyptian cotton duvet. Warmth surrounded me. I closed my eyes to the day. As I slipped into a peaceful slumber all I saw was Connor’s face.

“You look beautiful tonight”, tracing his finger across my shoulder and slipping the strap of my silk camisole down. He looked into my eyes never loosing focus as his fingers swept down my arm and across to meet with my waist. Warm pooling liquid gathered between my legs. I was so engaged to his every touch. My nipples hardened as his mouth surrounded one of them. Sucking and teasing it, running his tongue around and over my hard nipple. My body quivered. The strong masculine hand that he used to protect me tonight felt protective as he placed his palm on the nape of my neck. He was so gentle, so in tune with my desire to have him. My head tilted back to allow his tongue to devour mine. All of my senses were on overdrive.

* * *

I awoke in the morning feeling irrationally intrigued by my indecent dream. I was attracted to him immensely. I wanted to feel his touch on my body. The taste of his lips upon mine. The feeling of him inside of me.

My body was aching at the thought of him. A throbbing between my legs urged me to release the tension my body held. I was irrationally horny over my dream with Connor. I needed a release.

My fingers slipped between the lace of my black panties until they had found their way to my wet slit. The liquid was warm and had flowed naturally at the thought of Connor possessing my body. I stroked back and forth allowing my muscles to quiver with the erotic sensation I was unleashing on myself. My left hand slid underneath my silk camisole, massaging and pulling at my erect nipple. I worked my fingers around my clit and began to circle it. Intensifying the build up of pleasure I could feel between my legs. The immense feeling of desire flooded my body. I slipped a finger inside of myself. Moving in and out. Thrusting. The feeling of my warm silky skin against my bare fingers. I withdrew and rubbed my clitoris until I was on the brink of loosing myself. The image of Connor inscribed into my mind was the final push I needed to bring myself to a shuddering orgasm.

Five more nights until Henry returned.

Five more nights of freedom.

Chapter 11

Wednesday had started as any other day. Opening my eyes to the thought of Connor. I hadn’t seen him since Travie’s gig two nights ago. Come to think of it I hadn’t heard from Henry either. Perhaps he was still perplexed by my tone with his Mother dearest. Pushing off my duvet I sought after my laptop. Grabbing it off of my dressing table I headed for the stairs. Tea first, just what I need.

Oh God. Owwe. A large thud to my buttocks was first indication that my feet had decided to miss the first step. Fuuuuccck. My arms swung out in an automatic reflex to grab the banister in the hope I could save myself from falling. It was no use. I tumbled. Every step had managed to come into contact a part of my body. Bruising was inevitable. Ow…… ow, ow, ow.

Sitting shaking at the foot of my stairwell I glanced to see my laptop smashed into about eight various pieces. Bollocks. What a great start to my day. Picking up the pieces I bought them through to the coffee table in the lounge and placed them out. I can do this, surely? — Can’t be that hard to fix. I clipped some of the loose keys back onto the pad. Not bad Evie. Pat on the back for me. Next I held out a long rectangular looking thingy-ma-giggy. After fifteen minutes of staring at the remaining parts hoping to have an epiphany I realised this was no use. I have no clue what any of these parts are.

Henry is going to be seething when I tell him. Perhaps. There is someone to fix everything.

I strode towards the kitchen. I was on a mission. Four days left, this is more than possible. Now if I can just find that damn Yellow pages then this can be forgotten and Henry will never know.

I tore through every cupboard and sifted through each shelf. It was nowhere to be seen. I knew I had placed it back here. My finger brushed over my growing collection of Good Food Magazines and cookery books. Henry. That’s it, Henry used it last.

I hurried out of the doorway and turned right into Henry’s office. I hesitated at the handle. I very rarely came into Henry’s office. It was his private space. Needs must. I twisted the handle and it failed to open, it was locked. I glanced, inspecting the offending lock, trying to fathom a way to break into a room in my house. I pulled a coin from my jean pocket and braced myself. The coin slipped into the crevice and allowed enough momentum to twist the lock. I pushed the door open and glanced around the immaculate room. His desk sat in the middle. The walls were emerald green with walnut veneered cladding covering the lower half. It seemed like something out of The Godfather. The room was dark, nothing like the rest of the house. It was a representation of Henry in every way. A large sheepskin rug covered the majority of the dark wood flooring. It was the only softness in a room of harsh lines and bold colours. I walked slowly towards his desk trailing my finger over the steel filing cabinets.

I sat back into the black buttoned leather chair. The atmosphere was inhabilitating. There was no way to describe it. For some unknown reason I felt vulnerable. Intuition was screaming at me. Why had Henry kept you out of here? Knowing I shouldn’t I reached for the bottom left hand draw and pulled it open. Stacks of files filled the space. Accounts. Costings, and at the very bottom my much needed Yellow pages. Bingo. I grabbed it slamming the drawn closed. Frustration overwhelmed me. My mind wanted me to find fault. Stupid Stupid girl.

* * *

Three days, three whole days to fix my laptop, at least it would be back in time, just. What if Henry had emailed? He would question my lack of response. I couldn’t tell him. The last time I dropped something he went ballistic. I know I was clumsy and it was my fault for not concentrating. But after not seeing him for fourteen days I do not need to be greeted by yet another bollocking.

I sat back into Henry’s office chair and started up his Mac. He will be none the wiser. I signed into my email account. Nothing. Not one email from him? A ping alerted me to a new email. I looked over my inbox but there was no new email. I logged out of my account and went to shut down the computer.

A bubble on the screen indicated received mail

1 New email from Thomas Hatfield

Why would Thomas be emailing him? Thomas is one of the main buyers for Webber’s and attends with Henry on all of his business meetings. Curiosity got the better of me and I clicked to open his inbox.

Thomas’ message was simple — Meeting in Dubai October 22nd 2012, Flight details to follow.

Another meeting? I sighed. Four days after our wedding? Great. That’s the honeymoon out of the question.

My eyes started to burn. 26 Emails from Antonia Cavill. Socialite bitch troll.

My hands trembling as I clicked open the most recent email.

To: Henry Webber

From: Antonia Cavill

Date: 20th September 2012

20.46pm

Fancy Goa tomorrow? I have two first class tickets booked. Join me and I will pack the beads, I know how much you like using them on me;-)

Love you

My body wanted to shut down. My heart was so heavy, as if it were made from stone. Bellowing aching pushed against my chest, restricting me. Breathing was excruciating; physically paining me. I wanted to scream from the roof tops. Throw all of his clothes out of the window. Change the locks and tell him to take his beads and shove them. However ironic it may have sounded.

That is what I wanted to do.

My body couldn’t move. Shock consumed me.

I shut down his computer. Not before removing the history. My eyes scanned over his office making sure there was no trace of evidence that I had been there. I placed the yellow pages neatly back into the bottom right hand draw. Walking out of his office I pulled the door shut. Twisting the lock behind me.

Emotions became too intoxicating for me to control. I had no control over my body and collapsed onto the floor pulling my legs into my chest. Feeling so foetal. I wrapped my arms over my legs protectively. Literally holding myself together, shielding myself from anymore pain that may consumed me. My chest tightened.

He is fucking someone else. I had no capacity to hold in my tears any longer. They fell freely, their trail burning my skin as if they were toxic. My lips trembled and my body shook violently. Floods of tears pooled onto the floor besides my face. I was a quivering mass of shattered pieces. The one person that had loved me, the one person that I had let into my heart had betrayed me.

Perhaps I had caused this. Insecurity was compelling me to find reason for his desolate affair. Our sex life was near non-existent. Perhaps I did fuel his torrid fuck fest. Perhaps this was my fault. In a moment of utter stillness and dislocation from the world I allowed myself to grieve.

* * *

I awoke to the sound of the doorbell. I opened my eyes slowly as they gradually adjusted to take in my surroundings and realised I was still lying on the hallway floor. I clambered together standing in front of the huge mirror which hung from the ivory wall. Staring back at me was a broken mess of a person. My eyes were bloodshot. Dark rings circled them. My skin was pale and withdrawn. I had aged ten years in the last five hours.

“Evie, it’s me, I know you’re in there your car is on the drive, let me in.” Luce shouted out.

Shit. Not now. “Um, hang on, I’m um naked, I just ran down for some clothes”. I lied.

“Ok, just hurry your ass up otherwise I’ll be coming in naked or not”.

With one last brush of my hair I took in a deep breath and opened the door.

“Hey Luce, why are you here?”

She was beaming, “Well… I wanted to know what you are doing tonight?”

I knew this was going to be a trick question and would lead myself right into one of her ideas. “Nothing, why?”

“Well we are going out. Connor is having a fight and has asked us all to go, you wanna come?”

“I’m not sure Luce, I um, well Henry is back soon and I um”. Lucy interrupted me. She was never one to take any of my shit.

“You ARE coming to this fight, it will be fun, you know that thing that people do to be sociable and have a happy fulfilled life?”

“Well aren’t you just little Miss Sarcastic this afternoon”.

“You know me Evie, I just like to inform you of the facts”.

“Where is he fighting?”

“At Equinox. It’s meant to be a big deal fight. Connor has bagged us cage side seats, hell yeah, it’s gonna be epic Evie. I love a good fight”.

“You’re such a man at heart”, I couldn’t hold back my smile. Her enthusiasm always rubbed off on me. Of course it had nothing to do with Connor being there.

“That’s more like it. I like a fight and of course don’t mind ooogling the men fighting who happen to be impeccably toned, fit and sexy. Just a perk of the fight eh”. Lucy winked at me sending me into hysterical laughter.

“Ooogling? What kind of word is that!”

“It’s an ooogling kinda word, I’m just gonna grab my stuff from the car”.

“Stuff?”

Lucy glanced over her shoulder smiling at me.

She strolled in with a bag hitched over her shoulder and three shopping bags. “Well, I need stuff to get ready for tonight”.

“Just invite yourself over why don’t you!”

“I just have. Now where is the vino? Actually, don’t worry, I’ll find it”. Lucy headed into the kitchen and grabbed a bottle of Bollinger, “This is all I could find?”

“Better crack it open then”.

She filled two large glasses to the rim, “You’re not trying to inhibilitate me are you Lucy Bertie?”

Pointing to her chest and dropping her hip she replied in a I’m-a-completely-innocent-girl voice. “Moi, never”.

She headed over to my stereo and clipped in her iPod. The sound of the black eyed peas filled the room. My eyes welled at the lyrics ‘no no no no, baby no no no no don’t lie’.

“Hey Luce can we change the song?”

“Yeah sure, what do you want on?” Her eyes looking at me quizzically.

“Something dancey? — We are getting ready for a night out and all”.

“That’s my girl. This any better?”

Jessie J’s voice sang through the speakers. Strong, Independent woman. That’s more like it.

* * *

“Come on Evie, the cab is waiting”.

I ran down the stairs and grabbed my clutch. Tonight we were going for the sexy yet casual look. I wore my khaki skinny jeans and a cream blouse which I had tucked into the waistband. I finished the look with a brown skinny belt and my nude stiletto pumps. I felt confident. Also very much looking forward to seeing Connor’s ripped physic all hot and sweaty. Mmmmhmm.

We pulled up to Equinox. The domed curve of the building against the night lit skyline was breathtaking. It was dove grey with strobe lighting crossing the starlit sky. The sound of the music from inside the building was intense. I could feel the vibration through my body. As we walked through the glass doors the size of the building became apparent. The ceilings were sky high and everywhere I looked bodies were packed tightly. This was unnerving. We clutched hands determined to make sure we arrive to the rest of the group together.

“Travie!” Lucy shouted. Her voice was lost in the noise of the room and the background music. Tugging my hand she walked us in the direction of the group. Travie was looking his usual rock some self. Lucy leaped onto him and wrapped her legs around his waist. He in turn wrapped his arms around her as they decided to publicly devour each other’s mouths.

“Hey Jake”.

“Hey Evie, looking hot baby girl.”

“Uh, thanks Jake, where is Lex?”

“She has just gone over to the reception to find out where to pick up our tickets from. Can’t get in without a ticket”.

“I thought Luce said Connor had sorted the tickets?”

“I have”. I instinctively jumped at the sound of his deep voice caressing those two words.

“Hey Connor”. Jake called over.

“Evie you made it”. Lex squealed hugging me, exuding her enthusiasm for my presence.

“Hello again Evie”. His eyes staring into mine intently. Why was I acting so irrational? He was a man. A very handsome, sexy, perfect man. But a man none the less. Why did my body want surcome to his ability to debilitate me? Jake and Travie are both attractive men and yet I can talk to them. Yet Connor, Connor manages to send my body into overdrive. My heart rate quickens. My body urges me to touch him. My mind wanders, wanting to taste him, to feel him inside of me. He makes my body yearn for him.

“Hi Connor, thank you for the tickets. I’m looking forward to seeing you fight”.

He smiled, “Fight?” He lent down and whispered into my ear, “I was hoping you would say you were looking forward to seeing me half naked, hot and sweaty”.

My mouth dropped open and my body tightened everywhere. He leaned up and I could see the smile creep across his lips.

“See you after the fight Evie, here are the tickets”. He handed me five tickets and placed a kiss on my cheek.

“Oh my God, he is so fucking sexy.”

“He’s ok I suppose Lex.”

“Ok huh? — I suppose you wouldn’t mind if I asked him out then?”

Shock covered my face, “Wha, um, oh I um… . suppose not”.

“Gottcha, you like him Evie, just admit it”.

Oh yes I really fucking fancy him. I want him to rip my clothes off and fuck me until we are both hot and dripping wet. I thought best and settled simply with, “I’m with Henry”.

Our seats were amazing. We were practically twelve feet away from the octagonal cage. The cage was in the centre of the arena and seats wrapped around it with each level of seating being higher than the last. The atmosphere was sensational. Adrenaline ran high throughout the crowd. Testosterone was apparent, men arguing and staking their claim over who will be the winning fighter in tonight’s match. I had never seen Connor fight before but instinct told me he would win. He had to. The thought of him bloodied and crippled with pain was unbearable.

The surrounding lights dipped. Shadows cast over the faces of the adoring crowds. Bright light centred solely highlighting focus to the ring. In it standing two men, ready to fight to gain supremacy.

Connor looked delectable. His bare chest glistened against the lighting of the arena. His face looked fiercely dark, standing opposite his opponent. Their bodies shifted slightly, edging between feet, like a preliminary warning threat to one another. Connors frame was bold, wide and toned, he was six foot precisely, or so the guide informed me. But even though Connor was tall and toned he stood a few inches shy of the giant that was in front of him. My heart skipped in fear at the thought of Connor having to battle his way to victory against this huge monster of a man. Jake noticed my worried glances altering between the giant and Connor.

“Connor will be more nimble and have speed on his side against that big brute.” He offered.

I was not too sure whether Jakes reassurances were honest or a tactic to subdue my fear.

“Oh okay, I suppose he needs something on his side, that guy is huge.”

The ref talked into the microphone, amplifying his voice slightly. His voice was muffled and his words became lost into the noise of the crowd. Connor and his opponent, Santos, tapped fists and walked backwards from one another. Standing themselves opposite one another at either end of the cage.

Both men psyching themselves up and trying to intimidate the other. Springing from foot to foot. Tiny jumps made to enhance their size and form. Connor was immensely focused on Santos. His eyes never breaking contact. Not once looking fearful of his competitors size.

The ref called fight and Connor and Santos began to edge in towards one another. Fists raised just below their chins, ready to swing in the right instance.

Santos edged closer, prepared to make his advance. Connor goaded him, stepping back slightly allowing Santos to creep forward toward him. Santos continued to dance around Connor. His arms raised and fists clenched in a position to shield his face. Connor’s arms had relaxed, lowered to waist height, his confidence radiated from him. A small smirk crossed his lips as he prepared to make his move. Connor lightly jabbed out, nowhere near close enough to touch Santos and with minimal effort to ensure his energy levels were sustained whilst he played with his prey.

Santos became edgy with Connor’s movements and decided to swing out first. Santos mustered his energy and lunged forward with his right leg and following through with the same arm. His movement was sloppy, causing his body to lower without connecting with Connor’s. Connor sought his window and pummelled his fist into the side of Santos’ head.

Santos staggered back a little, and Connor grabbed his lower leg, hauling it up to his abdomen. Santos’ arms pound at Connor’s chest, attempting to push him off. Connor lost his footing and Santos used this moment to withdraw his leg from Connor’s grasp and edge away, bringing much needed distance between the pair of them.

The both drew in, jabbing one another with swings of their fists. Seeing Santos’ fist connect with Connor’s body was excruciating to watch. The pair ducking and dancing around one another. Minor kicks and jabs being thrown into the mix.

Santos advanced, with lightning speed it was hard to comprehend his movements until I saw Connor lying on the mat. Santos’ leg has swung and connected with Connor’s head, the force sending Connor flying onto his back. I gasped, fear propelling through my body. My hands clasped my face, shielding my eyes from the view of Connor’s bloodied face.

“Don’t worry, look, he’s up. That’s nothing; Connor’s tougher than that kick”.

I peeled my fingers away from my eyes to see Jake smiling towards the cage.

“Oooh he looks pissed now, Santos isn’t gonna stand a chance.” The grin across Jakes face was undeniable. He really believed what he was saying.

When I looked back toward the cage Connor stood strong and looked beyond angry. Connor went in harder and faster, swinging and connecting with his face and body with every strike. The roar of the crowd was inhabilitating. The atmosphere tense and cheering as Connor pummelled his was through Santos.

The claxon sounded informing that the first round had finished. I inhaled deeply in the comfort of knowing that Connor was fine, for at least the next two minutes before round two.

The dancing around one another began again, this was the last round and Santos was growing weaker, his body growing slow and uncoordinated. His hits were lazy and misplaced. Connor was conserving his energy. Slowly allowing Santos to draw out his movements and ebb away at himself.

With a last blow of energy Santos came in fast towards Connor, jabbing and punching. His hits were forceful but nothing compared to the swift uppercut that moved with such grace and force that sent Santos’ body flying and grounded to the floor.

* * *

Crowds barged through the exit doors. Men mimicking moves from the fight and discussing the tactics and results. The crowd was overall in favour of the winning fighter tonight and that gave me a sense of pride. I was right. Time to cash in the bet slip.

“Lex, I need to put this in to get my winnings”. I couldn’t help but gloat.

“When? How? I never saw you do that”

“Ladies room detour” winking at her, “I won’t be long Lex. Wait over by the main entrance with the others and I will meet you there. Drinks on me!”

Feeling very flush I headed back over to the group. I was stopped in my tracks,

“So you took a chance on me then Evie”.

“Yes, and it turned out to be very profitable”.

“Maybe you should let your instincts guide you in future choices”.

Before I could speak he had woven his fingers between mine. Leading the way back to the group through the thick crowds of bodies. It felt so utterly natural.

Without warning my hand was released. I looked down at my empty hand and up at Connor. Nodding towards our friends I realised his intentions.

“I didn’t want to let go”, he whispered into my ear. I couldn’t help but smile.

“So guys, guess who the drinks are on tonight”. I waved the wad of fifties in the air and the group cheered.

Chapter 12

“Three grand, how much did you put on in the first place?”

I tapped my nose and Jake poked his tongue out in mock disgust. “I will never tell”.

“Spoil sport.”

I couldn’t help but giggle.

I knew it was a bad idea to invite everyone back to mine. But with their pouting and sincere promises of being on clean up duty in the morning how could I resist.

Lex was sitting on the floor in front of the sofa that Travie and Luce had claimed. Travie was sprawled across the length of it. Lucy lay on top of him and their legs were entwined with one another. Over the past half an hour they had barely come up for air.

Jake and Connor were sitting on the opposite sofa. I had intentionally sat on the rug between both sofas. I didn’t want to be too close to Connor. I couldn’t trust myself with him.

“Who want’s pizza??” I asked. It had just gone ten and my stomach was aching for food.

Lucy came up for air, “Me” she screeched “I’ll have another glass of vino too”. Holding out her glass.

Lex rolled her eyes at Lucy, “Yeah I’ll have pizza too thanks”.

“Me too, a meat feast to myself thanks”, Jake added.

“Connor?”

“Yeah, I’ll help you order and quench the cavalries thirst”.

“Thanks”, I smiled.

Since we had arrived I had purposely been putting distance between us. My body longed for his touch, yet my head knew what his touch represented. Lust, unfaithfulness. Not that Henry gave that a second thought. But what Henry had done was inconsequential. It did not indicate that I was at liberty to indulge in my own adulterous relationship.

I grabbed the home phone and headed out into the hallway toward the kitchen. Connor followed me out. Suddenly I was aware of my every movement.

“Evie”, I turned to look at his staring at me impassively.

“I’m just going to order the pizza”. I smile sweetly and dialled the number praying for someone to answer quickly.

“Hello, Papa John’s, can I take your order”

“Hi, yes”. Shit. Connor started to walk towards me, his eyes full of lustful determination. Stopping mere inches away from my face. His breathing deepened and my heart lurched.

“I’ll, um, sorry, I’ll have two large Margaritas”. As I say the words Connor has stepped behind me out of view. I can sense him. Feel the closeness of his body. His hot luscious breath just moments from my neck. Instinctively I tilted my head a little to expose my bare neck. Allowing the tingling sensation to run father along my neck.

“A um, large meat feast, and”.

“Concentrate Evie” he whispered against my neck. His hands wrap around my waist and he pulls me into him. I can feel his erection pushing in to the small of my back.

“And, sorry, a large pepperoni, with”. I stuttered.

His tongue traced the line from my lobe to the base of my neck. He holds me by my waist and turns me to face him. His eyes are filled with intent.

“and two portions of wedges please.” Our mouths just moments away from meeting.

“Ok maam, that will be about thirty minutes and should we deliver to the usual address?”

“Yes please”. Connor grabbed the phone and placed it gently on the granite kitchen worktop. My lips parted wanting to tell him to stop. He was so beautifully perfect. His hand cupped the back of my head and his lips touched mine. For a brief moment I allowed myself to enjoy his full soft lips kissing mine. To allow my mind to wander at what it would be like to be with Connor. He pulled away breaking the connection of our mouths. His eyes sunk into mine. Carmel tones softened his piercing blue eyes. My face was still cupped between his hands. Yes, Yes my subconscious screamed at me, kiss me again.

“Do you want me Evie?” The sound of his voice saying the words out loud brang my world crashing down around me.

“Connor, I, I am getting married. I can’t do this”.

“You’re making a mistake Evie, you don’t want him. If you did you wouldn’t have let me touch you the way I just did.”

Is this just a game to him? Does he just want the thrill of the chase. Another conquest to add to his growing concern?

“Who the hell do you think you are? You came over and started touching me while I was on the phone. What did you expect me to do?”

“You could have stopped me if you wanted to. Tell me you didn’t feel it. Tell me you didn’t want me to kiss you?”

“I didn’t.”

“You can lie to yourself, but I know what you felt. I felt it to. Tell me you’re not wet with anticipation over what I just did to you.”

So what if he was right and the wet slick feeling between my legs was alight with desire for Connor.

I reached out and slapped him across his face as hard as I could, which was in turn pathetically lame. “You are a complete and utter arse hole. Does it make you feel good to play with my emotions. Then, to talk to me like that, like I am some cheap slut. Fuck you Connor.” I spat at him, biting back the tremor in my voice.

I stormed past him, heading towards the lounge. Seething with anger, I went and sat next to Lex. Bringing my knees up to my chest and wrapping my arms around them holding them in place.

“You ok hun?” Lex asked softly.

“Yeah, I’m just fine”. I couldn’t quite hide the bitterness from my voice.

Connor walked in with a bottle of wine and some beers for the guys. Wine wasn’t going to do what I needed it too. I crawled behind the sofa and reached into the drinks cabinet. I needed something strong. My life was shattering before me and I wanted to forget, forget everything.

“Want a shot girls?”

Connor’s eyes burned into me. He gaze capturing my every move. I feel liberated and he was not going to bring me down. He is not going to control my capacity for alcohol. Not him.

A knock at the door startled us, it had only been ten minutes since we ordered pizza.

“It’s the rest of the band Evie, hope ya don’t mind.” Travie said as seductively as possible. He went to let them in.

Mitch, Callum and a pretty blonde followed Travie into the lounge. They looked every inch the noticeable rock stars.

“Hey Evie” Callum said with a light hug. “This is Daisy.” I smiled at her. She was pretty, meek, with strawberry blonde hair and chestnut eyes. They went and found a space on the rug. Their bodies pressed into one another’s. Alexis’ eyes were burning into Daisy, she was jealous. Callum had a soft spot for Lex. For the past year she had obscured his advances and pushed the attraction she had towards him away. She was too stubborn to act on it. The hounds of groupies that followed the band deterred her from allowing anything to happen with him. It was such a shame as they were a picture perfect couple.

“Well hellowww gorgeous” Mitch cooed, obviously a little under the influence of alcohol. He pulled me into a tight embrace ad held me there a little longer than necessary. As he set me down I turned towards the group and saw the uncomfortable tightening of Connor’s jaw. His fists clenched simultaneously.

* * *

Empty pizza boxes covered the floor. Mitch belched and in unison Travie and Callum followed suit. Men.

I collected the grease ridden boxes together and walked them out to the kitchen. My legs were unsteady in my precarious heels, after consuming a variety of spirited shots. I kicked them off in quick succession. ahhh.

“Here let me help you”.

“I don’t want your help.” I practically spat at him.

“I’m sorry Evie. What I said… I was a complete and utter idiot. I was out of order and you are right to be mad. But what I don’t understand is why are you making this so hard for me?”

“What the hell are you talking about? I don’t have time for your mind games Connor. What is it you want to hear exactly? — You want to hear that I find you attractive? Yes I do, that much is obvious. Or you want to hear that I would like to fuck you?”

His eyes widened at my rhetorical question. The drink was allowing words to spill from my mouth without giving me a chance to process them. “Yes Connor, of course I would like to fuck you, who wouldn’t. BUT — I am getting married in three weeks. You know this. I have been honest with you and yet you still persist”.

He paused, bringing his finger and thumb to pinch the bridge of his nose. “I do not want you to help my ego Evie. I find you absolutely stunning. You are beautiful. Your body is divine and the way you moved when you danced with me made me want to make you mine forever.” He sighed, his eyes meeting with mine. “I don’t want to fuck you Evie. I want to protect you and be with you. When I held you the other night. All night. I had never felt so close to someone in my life and I think you feel it too”.

Why doesn’t he want to fuck me?

“You don’t know me Connor. Not even close. You don’t want to fuck me and yet you caress me and try to seduce me. If that isn’t messing with someone then you need to re-evaluate your approach because it’s shit”.

Connor let out a patronising laugh. Why was this so hard to process? Why was he saying all of these things to me? There was no possible way to stop my tears. My body wanted to melt against the raging emotions running through my bloodstream. I would not do this in front of Connor. He was the reason for my doubt. He was the reason my body was yearning for his caress. How could one man make me feel so safe yet at the same time spinning out of control. The exit of the kitchen called me. I ran. Chest pounding against my rib cage.

“Evie!” I heard him call after me. I kept running. Swinging round the banister, taking two steps at a time. I paused when I reached the first floor landing. Where to run too? Where could I hide and let my body release the tears that wanted to flood me into a deep solitary state. Looking around for somewhere to hide. My studio. I fled up the next set of stairs and cocooned myself within the walls of my art.

I felt safe, but at the same time I had never felt so alone.

Chapter 13

“Sssshh don’t cry. I never wanted to make you cry”. His arms wrapped around my body. Rocking me gently until my tears subsided.

“I didn’t want to scare you Evie. I know you are getting married. I just wanted you to consider me. Consider what you felt, what you feel for me”.

I looked up to his eyes. Consider him? I saw such raw, unavoidable emotion in his eye. His tone was filled with unspoken words. I stroked his face with my right hand. The feeling of his rough stubble against his soft skin was electric. Connor’s eyes closed at my touch. His breathing deepened, leaning his face into my cupped palm. A soft groan left his lips. It almost sounded pained. I studied his face. His strong jaw line framed his perfectly formed full lips. Lips that were calling me to place mine against them. He looked so vulnerable.

I pushed my hands around his neck. Entwining my fingers through the back of his ashen hair. Anticipation lingered. Allowing my grief and pain to influence my next movements I tilted my head and stared impassively at his blush pink lips. I leaned closer. Testing the boundaries of our feelings. They parted and I could feel his warm breath against mine. This was the most sensual experience I had ever had the pleasure of feeling. My gaze moved upwards. His eyes were open intently focusing on mine. I couldn’t break free from his intense gaze. His eyes were alight with desire, desire for me. His scent was overwhelmingly intoxicating. I let my heart precept my mind.

I shouldn’t, but tentatively, disconnected from my usually obedient self, I allowed my lips to meet with his. His kiss was so sensually soft. I parted my lips, allowing his tongue to enter my mouth. He was so gentle, caring, attentive. His tongue brushed mine, circling and dancing together in rhythmic bliss. An unexpected bolt of electricity ran through every cell in my body. Inexplicable wanting rushed through my bloodstream. This is what kisses between two lovers were meant to feel like. Emotional turmoil threatened to erupt. The pain, dishonesty. I was no better than Henry. Was I doing this to ease the pain of his betrayal?

My body physically trembled with torn emotions. “Stop”, I pushed back. In a single moment of exquisite clarity I had realised what I wanted. I wanted him. I wanted Connor.

Instantaneous wanting soared through me. He was it, my everything, all my mind could focus on. He was out of reach. No amount of rationalising could justify being with him. Leaving Henry.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes, I just… I can’t.”

Connor intercepted my sentence with his mouth devouring mine. This felt so natural. So un-inhibiting. The taste of his tongue, the softness of his lips. Momentarily I hesitated.

“Ssh don’t think Evie, just feel. Do what your heart feels,” he whispered, so seductively.

Fleeted Kisses ran along my jaw bone. My body shivering at the placement of each one. Heart pounding eagerly. His tongue followed the curve of my neck, sensually placing kisses intermittently until he reached my breast bone. Our eyes locked, both of us full with wanting passion. But his eyes seeking permission. I didn’t try and stop him; I wanted this as much as he did. Gently he laid me back against the soft lush sheepskin rug which centred the varnished wooden floor boards. Here I was, lying with Connor’s body above mine. His head leaned into me. My lips parted to accommodate his searching tongue. Our kiss turned passionate, eager. The taste of his tongue delving heatedly into my mouth. His hand cupped the hollow of my lower back, arching my spine until my breasts met with his stone hard chest. I wrapped my arms around his neck, our lips never parting. He tasted so serene. So perfect. His tongue devoured my mouth wantonly. Liquid desire flowed freely between my throbbing thighs. The hand that held my lower back slid further around me until my waist was locked in a grip by his arm. Within moments he had lifted me on to his lap. I parted my legs, allowing myself to straddle him. I could feel his rock hard erection press against my aching sex. I needed more. The partition of clothing had to be removed. I needed to feel his skin against mine.

Connor’s arms were wrapped around my body. I slowly broke our kiss bringing my hands down to meet with the hemline of his t-shirt. I pulled upwards, revealing his impeccably toned abdomen. I continued until I had his shirt wholly in my possession. Tossing it to the floor. My eyes abused the body that I had placed in front of me. I took my time to trail my fingers over every ridge, every muscle. Cautiously making sure that I had covered all of his body with my touch.

“You’re so beautiful,” he groaned as I gently took the lobe of his ear between my teeth. I ebbed kisses across his neck and back to his flushed full lips. The taste of him was mouth watering. I could not have enough.

His large palm cupped my cheek, I felt as if my skin were ready to melt under the warmth of his encompassing hand. He pulled it slowly down until just the tips of his fingers were touching my skin. His fingers trailed over my collar bone until they met with the first button of my blouse. One by one he parted each one until the full glory of my black lace bra was in view of his gaze. His eyes were the pathway to his soul. In that moment everything between us was honest, raw, divine.

He tenderly slipped the strap down over my shoulder, placing a gentle kiss on my pale bare skin. The soft cares of his finger slipping between the flesh of my breast and the lace of my bra made me quiver with anticipation. My breast released, Connor quickly taking my soft pink nipple into his wet hot mouth. Sucking and licking. Swirling and pulling. My body had surcome to his possession. The feeling was sensational. I couldn’t suppress the shiver that pulsed through my body. Connor slowly edged me back. His fingers unbuttoned my jeans sliding them down to reveal my lace panties. He continued his kisses. Being sure to cover every inch of my body with sensual determination. Making me feel wanted and beautiful. His kiss edged down my stomach, lower, pausing momentarily at the edge of the thin lace. He pulled them off exposing my body completely. I was lying vulnerable under his gaze. All of my naked form under his scrutinous view.

“I have dreamed about this moment since we first met.”

His hands clamped firmly against my thighs, tilting my pelvis towards the soft sensation of his lips.

“Oh Connor” I sighed.

His tongue licking slowly, cautiously around my vulva. Rhythmic licks increasing in intensity until my body was writhed with desire for him.

“You’re so wet sweetheart, so wet for me,”

His fingers swept back and forth against my swollen slit. Tenderly prising my lips open to allow his tongue to lick deeper into the most intimate part of my being.

A groan caught in the back of his throat.

I was whimpering against the flicks of his tongue. My pelvis naturally tilting to move in rhythm with his mouth. Back and forth, harder and harder. Until the volcanic brew of intense pleasure boiled to no return. My body erupted under his touch. An earth shattering orgasm consumed me. My heart beating, my body panting.

I was at his mercy.

Connor’s mouth engulfed mine, the sweet taste of me was apparent on his lips. Our kisses were full of lust. Passion.

I pulled back, inhibitions lost to the passion we shared. I was in overload by the image of him before me. My fingers gripped the buckle of his belt, pulling to release the tension of it. I pulled at them making my intentions clear. He stood tall, as I knelt in front of him. Removing the jeans along with his black boxer shorts, his huge hard cock was released.

My hand wrapped around the width of him, firm. I wet my lips with my tongue ready to take all of him into the wet warmth of my mouth.

“No sweetheart, I need to be inside of you.”

He handed me a silver foil packet, i tore it apart in my teeth. Rolling the smooth silky latex from his tip to the sheath. He knelt back down so we were facing each other, our eyes intently gazing.

“You are so beautiful,” his hand stroking my face.

Our lips met and his arm wrapped around my waist. Swiftly spinning me until I was straddling him. Our eyes still locked.

I lowered myself onto the tip of his cock, slowly, inch by inch taking him further inside of me. Allowing my body to stretch and conform to his shape. The immense full pleasurable feeling was sensational. Being connected to him in such an intimate way. Enjoyable way.

I lifted my body up to the tip of his penis before sliding back down, grinding my hips. Panting.

He took my nipple into his mouth, sucking hard.

“Ah fuck, oh Connor I… I can’t. Oh God” I was stuttering. Pleasure was devouring my body.

He flipped me so my back was against the fur of the rug.

“It’s okay sweetheart, I’m gonna make love to you until you come for me.”

His body thrusted into mine, his hard cock pounding into my wet slit. Every inch of me was quivering. His rhythm and intensity increased. Pressure was threatening to overflow. I couldn’t contain it any longer.

“Don’t stop.” I panted hard.

With one final thrust my body surrendered. Orgasm shuddering through every inch of my body.

Connor grunted and released into me. Allowing his body to relax into mine. Our damp hot chests pressed together. Legs entwined. Bodies panting.

We laid there in blissful silence for what seemed like an eternity. My eyes grew heavy. The night air cast a chill over my naked body. The feeling of warm comforting cotton encasing my skin was all I remember as I slipped into a deep sleep for the night.

* * *

“Morning Sweetheart,” I awoke to the alluring scent of Connor’s skin. Still pressed tenderly against mine. His head dipped encasing my mouth by his.

“Morning yourself,” I smiled, “I could get used to waking up like this.”

“Well, we can do this every morning if you like.” His head nuzzled into my neck.

“Connor…” I paused.

“Don’t, don’t do it Evie.”

“Connor, I do, I want to be with you. I just, I need time. Things are awkward with Henry. I can’t just leave him. I need to talk to him, just a little time.”

“Okay sweetheart.” Glancing down at his watch “Ah, I have to run”, He paused “shit.”

He grabbed his clothes and rushed to get into them. The eagerness to bolt was not even slightly disguised. He was running. Fine.

He bent down kissing me briefly on my lips “Bye.”

And then he left.

Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.

Chapter 14

I stood feeling the wicked sensation of sickness. Forcing my body into involuntary gagging that was causing my stomach to writhe. Bloody alcohol. I ran down from my studio to the bathroom and allowed the contents of last night’s alcoholic consumption spill into the basin.

“Oooh you look as good as I feel,” Lucy let out a croak.

“You sound as good as I look,” I said with my head hanging over the sink.

I wrapped myself in my bathrobe huddling the soft towelling around the bottom of my lobes. The warmth was bittersweet.

“Is everyone still here?”

“Just us. Saw Connor leave about ten minutes ago,” She winked.

I rolled my eyes.

“Travie and Mitch left just after midnight, they grabbed a ride with Jake and Daisy.”

“Daisy? What happened to Callum… And where’s Lex then?”

An indecent grin spread across her face. “Probably in Callum’s bed right about now”.

Giggles erupted from us both.

“At last!”

As we walked downstairs the smell of stale pizza and wine turned my stomach. Dry gagging burned the back of my throat. I had nothing left to expel.

A bang at the door made us jump. What the hell.

I swung the door open wondering who the hell would be here this early.

“Hello Maam, I am Chloe and this is Beth. We are from Merry Maid cleaning services”.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t arrange any cleaners. I do apologise”.

“Courtesy of Mr Ryan. Here maam, this if for you”. She handed me a small white envelope. “Will just be getting our equipment from the van”.

I opened it and there was a small handwritten note enclosed

Sorry I couldn’t stay to tidy. Thank you for last night. Connor x

“What’s that?”

“Oh nothing, Connor just arranged cleaners as him and the guys ditched. I slipped the note into my bathrobe pocket. “Fancy a cuppa then?”

“As long as you’re making a bacon sarnie with it too, I need a hangover cure”.

I turned the gas on and place the smoked bacon into the pan. The smell was… was… oh God. I turned and managed to meet the kitchen sink just in time. More liquid spilled from me. Lucy let out a hysterical laugh. “Someone have a bit too much to drink, eh”.

“Leave me alone”. I pouted. “Your gonna have to make your own bacon sandwich. My stomach can’t handle anymore gagging.”

Tea slipped down the back of my throat, soothing the burning path that my body had caused. I could feel the warm trail running down my throat and hitting my empty stomach.

“So what happened to you last night? Connor and you seemed to have disappeared all night. TO-GET-THER”. Her murderous eyes staring at me with anticipation. “He really likes you,” she added.

“He asked me to consider him. He told me he really likes me and wants to protect me”. I paused and inhaled deeply. “I had sex with him.” I whispered and closed my eyes at my declaration of moral misconduct.

“And?”

Her question threw me. I was awaiting a stern bollocking. “What do you mean and?”

“And, have you considered him? Did you feel something when you got jiggy with him?”

“Yes… maybe………. I don’t know”. I sighed. “I am really confused. Last night, he was everything I wanted, he still is. He was everything and more. But this morning… He just left. I think he got what he wanted so has hung me out to dry… I just feel so, stupid, used. What am I going to do Lucy?” Sobs erupted. A sense of loss enveloped me. I had never felt so used. But what else did I deserve. I had bought this on myself.

Lucy’s arms swarmed around me. Holding onto me whilst each sob ebbed its way out. Each one a representation of my hurt, my loss, my stupidity.

“I can’t believe I was so stupid.”

“You can’t spend the rest of your life being unhappy Evie. You’re not your mum. You can be happy with the right man. You don’t have to settle for the safe option”. Safe? Henry the safe option. That was the last thought that came to mind when I think of Henry. Dangerous seems more in keeping with his personality.

“Lucy, he doesn’t want me. He left, he used me and left. I was just having jitters with Henry. I know you think he is controlling but I have a good life, and he loves me. I can’t ask for more.”

“Oh Evie, Connor really like you, there must be a reason he left?”

“Even so, It’s not right. I love Henry. Perhaps this is the wakeup call I needed.”

“Ok hun. I am sure you know what you are doing. No one will judge you if you change your mind”.

“He is all I know. I can’t delve into the unknown. Connor is a fighter. He will tour the world. He has a different woman every night and I have just added myself to his growing concern. How would that be for stability? He has congregations of women at his every move. I can’t compete with that. I don’t think I would be able to deal with it. It is an indulgent fantasy, and I don’t even think he wants me.” “It may be indulgent but why would you be having the fantasy if Henry were what you really wanted?”

“Don’t Lucy”. I spat out.

“Okay, I am sorry. I won’t mention it. Just remember I am here if you need me”.

Three more days until Henry is home.

Chapter 15

Henry was due home today. I hadn’t heard from Connor in three days. My heart and mind battled over my moral altercation. For three days I have had to look at myself realising what a stupid hypocritical woman I have been. What was more concerning is the hurt of not hearing from Connor, for him making love to me and leaving me burned me more than anything Henry has ever done to me.

A mixed concoction of inadequate feelings soared through my body. I was going to forgive Henry for this. I had too, I was no better. This was just an unexplored path that a majority of men pre-wedding explore. Consequently with my wayward irrational lack of desire to give him the sexual indulgence he needed pushed him into this affair. So I told myself. This was a mistake of his that could be rectified. I would be the woman, correction, the wife, Henry needed.

I was making this conscious decision to forgive him. Every bone in my speculative body required answers. I needed to rationalise this. I needed to give myself clear concise reasoning as to why the man who wanted to spend his life with me could do this. How could I expect this? I was just as unfaithful. I slept with Connor. What is more disconcerting is that I wanted too. I enjoyed his lips on mine. The feeling of him inside of me. How could I expect place blame on Henry for his misdemeanours when I was unwilling to inform him of mine?

My body lurched forward. I felt the bile rise in the back of my throat. All of this worrying was making me physically sick. I ran to the basin and allowed myself to expel every ounce of my stomach into the running water. I couldn’t deal with this angst much longer. Our Wedding was in thirteen days. I needed to marry him knowing I could be enough for all of his needs.

I lay back in the garden hammock. The tranquillity was exquisite. The sky was piercing blue with hues of white scattered clouds floating. Warmth from the sun encapsulated me and I allowed myself to delve into the world of my fictitious romance novel.

* * *

“Hey Baby”. Henry caressed my cheek.

“Sorry I must have fallen asleep”. I looked into his eyes and I felt undivided anger towards him. “How has your trip been?” I couldn’t hide the sarcasm from my voice. Sitting up in the hammock I stepped down and walked towards the patio table.

“It’s been good thanks. Did you have a good couple of weeks?”

“Not too bad. I would assume yours was better?” I hissed.

“You’re still pissed at me for going then I take it? It was work Evie. Fucking work. Grow up”.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to, please forgive me, I have just been ill the past few days”.

“Okay, as long as this is the end of it, I don’t want you dragging up my work anymore. Understood?”

“Yes, of course, like I said I have just been ill and a bit grouchy”.

“Good”.

Glancing at the time, I had realised it was a little after five, “So what would you like for dinner tonight?” I offered, breaking the tense silence.

“How about something simple, as you have been ill? I’m happy with a stir-fry. I don’t want you going to too much trouble.”

“Okay, perfect darling, I will go and put it on.”

I lifted myself out of the hammock and headed towards toward the patio doors.

“Evie” he called after me.

“Yes Henry?”

“I missed you baby, sorry you have been ill.” He leaned his head down and offered my lips a soft kiss. This was the Henry I loved, the kind considerate man.

I grabbed the vegetables and started slicing them whilst the chicken sizzled in the wok. The golden tone of the chicken indicated time for the vegetables to be thrown in. I doused it again in ground nut oil and let the vegetables soften until the noodles went in.

“Something smells good.” The sound of Henry’s voice startled me.

“It will only be a few minutes darling, you can sit down and I will bring the dishes over.”

Henry pulled out the chair in pushed himself into the dining table. “So, have you sorted you dress out yet?”

“Oh yes, all done” I smiled, carrying over two plates filled with the warm stir-fry.

As I sat down opposite Henry I couldn’t help but question the love, or incidentally, lack of love I was feeling for this man before me. I love part of him. His compassionate side. The small slither of kindness that he has within him. I love his beautiful smile, his determination. I detest the mess of a person he has made me into. Perhaps I detest myself. Henry cannot possibly be to blame for my actions, my self-hatred. The loathing of committing adultery. I feel sick to my deepest core for what I had done.

Conversation lingered, unspoken words passed through the tense atmosphere. Weighing down on my demeanour.

Chapter 16

“What the fuck is this?” He spat at me. Pure anger filled his eyes, his teeth clenched as he spoke the words. My dressing gown was flung across the bed, he flung the white folded card in my face “Thanks for last night?” he bite out at me.

“It’s not what you think Henry, I swear, just let me explain.”

He strode towards me grasping me by the collar of my blouse. His breath burning in my face. “I’m waiting.”

“When, when… you were away, Lex, Lucy, Travie and Connor came over for pizza. The guys ditched and left us with the cleaning up in the morning so Connor sent over cleaning maids with this note.” I was so scared, my heart was racing and I couldn’t think straight. He pushed me back releasing me blouse. I stumbled a little but managed to keep myself upright.

“You fucking liar.”

“Please Henry, please”. His hand raised. “You’re a fine one to talk”, I sobbed.

“You what? I didn’t quite hear that Evie, care to enlighten me?”

“No, nothing”

He grabbed me by my hair, “It didn’t sound like nothing, now what did you say?”

“Please let go of me Henry, you’re hurting me.” His fists tightened against my hair, I could feel every pin prick of pain Every follicle being tested to its extreme limits.

“You better start talking then.”

“You are one to talk Henry, Did you enjoy using the beads with Antonia?” I couldn’t help but smirk, out of sheer disgust.

“You stupid bitch” he bit out. His face was enraged. My hair released and I was free from his clutches, momentarily.

“I would have assumed the words out of your mouth might be I’m sorry? Wouldn’t you think so Henry?” I had pushed him too far. I saw the change in his eyes. They turned wild, his pupils enlarged, full of rage. Dark anger. Why didn’t I just shut up.

I felt the force of his fist first. It collided with my jaw with such impact that I fell backwards into the bedroom wall first. My legs gave way under the shock and my head bounced off of my bed side table. The pain set in next. Burning, blistering heat scorching its way along the aching path to my jaw.

“Sorry? If you weren’t such a frigid bitch then I wouldn’t need to fuck someone else”.

I couldn’t suppress my tears. “I’m sorry”, I whispered. So silent it was almost inaudible. Sorry for sleeping with Connor, sorry for bringing up his affair.

“Sorry? Don’t make me laugh Evie. That’s all you have got for me? You should be asking me to forgive you. I give you everything and all I ask for is you do fulfil your duties. How hard is it for you to spread your legs once in a while? You are nothing without me. You have no money, no home, no job, and no family. I suggest you get out of my sight until you realise that I have been nothing but good to you”.

I raised my hand to cup my jaw. The luke warm dampness of blood seeped through my fingers. I clambered together and ran from our bedroom. Rapidly descending the stairs, I grabbed my car keys and grounded to a halt. The realisation that I had nowhere to run to came crashing down around me, he was all I had. I was as unfaithful and as low as him. I needed time to think, to be alone. I crept to my studio and painted. I painted until I had nothing left to say. I allowed myself to tap into the raw pain and emotion. Letting it drip onto the canvas as an extension of my inner most deep rooted fears. Each stroke represented the pain, the hurt, the dishonesty. The release of emotional pain was draining.

I was lost and I was alone.

Chapter 17

I tiptoed through our bedroom doorway cautiously. Fear swamping me. Anxiety constricting each thrumming beat of my heart.

He wasn’t there.

I slipped into the empty cold king sized bed hoping that today would fade into a distant memory and that this could be put behind us. This didn’t have to be the end of us. Henry was upset at the thought of my being with someone else. That showed his dedication to me. Or perhaps his possession? My stomach instantaneously lurched when I heard footsteps in the doorway. The door crept open and light from the landing penetrated through.

Henry stepped into the room. His head hung in shame.

“I’m so sorry”.

I hadn’t realised that I had been holding my breath. I inhaled deeply. Is this what was to be, his striking of me to plague my every waking hour? I needed to forgive Henry for this, to set myself free to trust and love him. Otherwise I would restrict myself to living my life within these gilded walls, forever being a victim of my own fear.

“It’s ok”, my voice trembling. I sat up and placed myself sitting on the edge of the bed.

Henry fell to his knees in front of me. Wrapping his arms around my thighs, sobbing. I involuntarily tensed at his hold. Subconsciously I was still afraid of his touch.

“It is not ok Evie. I am so sorry. I was stupid. I shouldn’t have gone away with her… I. shouldn’t have hit you”.

“I wasn’t exactly fulfilling my duties as your partner. I am sorry too Henry”.

“I know, I know, baby”. “Please don’t leave me” he sobbed harder pushing his face in to my lap.

“I won’t leave you Henry”. I pushed my hands through his hair. “I am tired though. I would like to get some sleep”.

“Of course”. Henry stood. His eyes focusing on my purple toned jaw. He leant down and kissed with such tenderness the area in which he damaged. I flinched. I couldn’t comprehend how he could have been so angry and then repent his actions so swiftly. For the first time in my life I understood some of the reasoning behind my mother’s decisions.

* * *

The room was perfumed with a vulgar mix of perspiration and whisky. He looked directly at me. Nothing but pure evil filled his gun metal grey eyes. They sank into me. Bore a hole through me. His irises were full of excitement. Raven black. His manipulating smile. The sound of his hoarse voice.

“Just a bit too late” he sneered at me. He raises the slick black revolver and placed it against his temple. His smile never left his mouth. He was enjoying every minute of this.

“Told her I would get her”. My stomach lurched into my mouth, I was hyperventilating.

BANG. The bullet penetrated his skull. Claret blood splattered against the pastel floral wall paper. His body slumped into a heap in front of me. The last face he saw was mine. He had what he wanted. The pleasure of seeing my face knowing what he had done.

Knowing there was nothing I could do to save her. Her hand, her tiny porcelain hand was in clear view of the doorway to the back of the house. So fragile, so still. No, please no, wake up. Wake up. She was too still. Too pale.

Sweat poured down my face onto my chest. I was panting into the darkness. Looking for an indication that this was not real. I reached for the lamp and glanced around my bedroom. A dream.

I longed for Connor to hold me, to protect me. I was following my mother’s course.

* * *

“Morning”, he smiled at me. Testing my reaction to him. “I brought your breakfast in bed.”

I glanced down at the slightly charred toast and glass of orange juice. Henry was notoriously lacking in the kitchen. But his effort was there. That meant something.

“Thanks”

“I have to go into the office today but I will be back for six.”

“Okay.”

“I am sorry Evie, I will never touch you again. I promise. I will be the husband you need, you deserve”, he paused “please don’t leave me”. A sob erupted from his voice.

“It’s ok Henry. I told you I won’t leave you”. Guilt consumed me.

He kissed my lips tenderly, “thank you, I am so sorry darling, so sorry.”

“Let’s forget about it, you should get going to the office”.

“Okay darling. Bye, see you tonight. Don’t cook. I will order in”.

I took a bite of the toast. It tasted foul. Taking a mouthful of orange juice to try and dislodge the taste of ash from my mouth. My stomach heaved.

I ran to the bathroom and caught the basin just in time. My body had removed the unwanted mix of toast and orange juice leaving me feeling irrationally weak. I ran the water of the faucet to refresh myself, hurdling mouthfuls of the crisp cool water into my mouth, wanting to remove the vile taste of bile from my throat. Catching a glimpse of my reflection in the overhead mirror. I carefully looked over my lacerated face. Purple bruising surrounded it in blotches. It was hideous. There was no way to hide it. The pain that emanated from it was intense. I needed pain relief now.

I pulled open the medicine draw to grab the Naproxen a deep feeling of sickness came over me. Right there in front of me rested my unopened pill packet. The packet that I should have started yesterday. That couldn’t be right. Surely? I would have remembered to take the new packet if I had had my period. I ran to the living and emptied the contents of my handbag onto the floor desperately rummaging for my diary. There it was, in black and white. I was late. Shit

* * *

I sat in our bathroom staring at the thin white plastic test which I knew was about to change my life forever. Perhaps not knowing the definitive answer would be better. Perhaps it was the alcohol and stress that had caused the sickness and missed period. That’s probably it. I will do the test and it will be fine. I replaced the lid on the test end and began the two minute wait that was set to define the rest of my life. Somewhere sub-consciously I knew this. I knew I held a life inside of me. Instinct.

Those two minutes were the longest I have ever had to endure. I was shaking so hard that I dropped the test onto the floor. Picking it up, fear consumed me.

No…No… It can’t. Instinct had not prepared me for the reality, the reality of bringing new life into a relationship so tainted. I grabbed it taking a closer look. Two lines, two little blue lines. I reached for the outer packaging to confirm the results. To confirm that I had read it wrong and I was in fact looking at a pee stick telling me I was not pregnant. No matter how much I kept looking into oblivion and referred back to the instructions there was no denying it. It was positive. I am pregnant. Dates. Dates, all jumbled in to one. I had sex with Connor whilst I was pregnant. How could I be so incompetent. Carrying Henry’s child.

I slumped to the floor. My life felt surreal, it felt like I was having an outer body experience, watching another woman seem so positively depressed at her life that she could not enjoy the news of the new life inside of her. I wanted to scream at the woman sitting there looking so lost and confused. Tell her to leave and run a million miles away. That was all a fantasy, reality wouldn’t let her.

This couldn’t possibly be happening to me? Me, a mother? The feeling was so bittersweet. I had not expected to feel so scared and in denial about carrying our first baby. This was meant to be a time of joy, a momentous realisation that we were bringing a life into this world together as a happy couple. Yet here I was sitting on the bath room floor clutching a stick cover in pee and I was petrified. Scared of Henry, scared of carrying a child. Scared of being married.

* * *

“Hey Baby, I’m home. I brought Indian with me. Is that ok?”

I walked through to the hallway and took the brown paper bags from him. The scent of ginger and chilli was mouth wateringly good.

“Of course, smells amazing. I will just go and dish it up and bring it through to the lounge”. I pecked him on his cheek. Henry smiled sweetly at me and it helped me remember the warmth we can share together. The possibilities.

I brought through two plates piled high with food, it looked delicious. I suppose this was an upside to pregnancy. Indulging in more good food without Vivienne complaining about my weight for once. Silver lining?

Perhaps this would be the moment that Henry and I could focus on, and move forward together, forgetting the past. Forgetting the mixed palette of purple which swept across my lower jaw. This could be the catalyst that Henry needs, that I need.

“How was work today?” Hoping that his response would be civil. Henry did not usually discuss work. He would inform me of factual information and statistics, anything that anyone else on the company was already aware of. If he was frustrated or tense he would sit within the confines of his home office. Now I understood why, he confided in her, he talked to her. Not me. Not his future wife. The emotional betrayal seemed to be more poignant that the physical.

Henry must have noticed the saddened look which crept across my face as his hand gently rested on my thigh. I looked up to see his face soften.

“She doesn’t work for me, you don’t have to worry, I have ended it with her Evie. I promised that I would and I have.”

“It’s not just that Henry, but you never really discuss you work at home. I know I don’t work with you but sometimes I feel like an outsider in my relationship with you. I would love to know when you have had a good day, or a bad one too”, I sighed as a lone tear escaped from my eye. “I just want to feel like I am a part of your world.” I flinched as his hand rose to wipe away my tear. I couldn’t help it, it was an automatic reaction. Henry’s hand paused.

“I’m not going to hurt you”. His thumb connected with my cheek as he gently wiped my tear away. “Okay Evie, I will try and tell you more about work, it’s not that I don’t want to discuss it with you, but when I have been in the office all day the last thing I want to do it talk about the same things I have spoken about all day. But, as you would like to know, I had a good day at work today.” I am not sure what I expected, he had taken my words literally, and every day I would be told if he had a good day or a bad day. Perhaps once we are married he will see me more as his wife and confide in me more.

I took a bite of my Tikka Masala, it was delicious and aromatic. I couldn’t get the next forkful into my mouth soon enough. Before I had realised it, I had consumed the majority of my plate and Henry was gawking at me like I was something out of the Rocky Horror show.

“Hungry?” looking at me amused.

“Ah, yes, sorry. I just… I… “I paused momentarily gathering enough courage to tell him. “Henry..”

“Yes darling”

I found myself nervously fidgeting. My eyes burning into my hands; I couldn’t bring myself to look at him as I let the next few words leave my lips.

“I’m pregnant”, the words sounded nothing more than a mere whisper.

His hand came up to cup my cheek, the warmth from his palm was comforting. Risking glancing up at him I saw his eyes alight. He was happy? “Is that what you have been worrying about?” he smirked.

“A little, I didn’t know how to tell you.” I admitted, exhaling to release the pent up frustration and worry that I had help trapped inside of me.

“Look Evie, I love you, I can see why you are worried. We are not even married yet and you are pregnant. You know I have always wanted children, but this is perhaps a little soon. I agree with you.” Agree with me? I had never said this was too soon.

“Henry, I…” He cut in “Look I think it may be best, especially if you are this worried to perhaps wait. We can always try again in a couple of years or so.”

Confusion gripped me, “Henry I didn’t say I want to start trying for a baby, I said I am pregnant. There is no waiting a couple of years, we are pregnant now.”

This conversation was not going the way I had expected, fear consumed me, my natural instinct to protect had risen.

“But you don’t have to be.” He sounded so matter of fact and cold in his response that a shiver rippled down my spine. My hands automatically clung to my stomach, maternal instinct was protecting my beautiful unborn baby. The need to protect and care for this tiny innocent life was overwhelming.

“No” I snapped.

“No what?”

“I am having this baby Henry. You are marrying me, you want children with me. I know this is slightly sooner than expected but I am having this baby.” Tears spilled from my eyes, “Please Henry, please” I whimpered begging him for the opportunity to have our baby.

“Okay, okay Evie, hey, you know I would never make you get rid of it, if you want it then okay, we will do this.”

“It?” I questioned, was he was referring to our baby as an ‘it’?

“The baby Evie, I said you can have the baby, now drop it okay.”

“Okay, sorry, I suppose it is all new territory.”

We sat in silence cuddled up on the sofa with one another for the rest of the evening. The sound of the television was drowned out by the thoughts of our baby. I caressed my stomach naturally and couldn’t help but smile at the thought of us once again being happy.

Being a family.

Chapter 18

“Evie, open up”

The repetitive thudding of Lucy’s hand against my front door was confirmation that she was here. I had avoided her successfully for three days so far. Waiting, praying for the purple hued bruise to fade and disappear before I could be in the same room as her. I didn’t want Lucy to come between me and my happiness, not now.

The past three days since Henry had found out I was pregnant have been heavenly. I have felt more connected to him that I had in a very long time. He was being more considerate and gentle and for once I felt serene. This was the changing event which has pivoted his personality into being the loving husband I always knew was inside of him. I had waited and the man I once grew to love had returned to me. My love, My Henry.

“Hang on a minute Lucy, just grabbing the keys.”

I ran to the bathroom as quickly as possible. As I looked at my reflection in the mirror there was no way of hiding the four inch yellow and green bruise which encapsulated the whole lower side of my jaw. I reached for my MAC foundation and applied it as efficiently as possible. Two minutes later the bruise had disappeared into oblivion. Thank God for MAC.

“Hey honey, sorry I was so long, couldn’t find those damn keys.”

Lucy air kissed both of my cheeks. The close proximity of her to my jaw made me nervous. I was suddenly questioning my application skills.

“Soooooo?”

“So what?”

“Urgh you are so rubbish! Bridesmaid dresses, we are shopping for them today.”

“Oh of course, I completely forgot! Right, gimmie a sec to grab my bag and we will go.”

Lucy let out a little squeal “Yay.”

Alexis was standing in the doorway of Selfridges awaiting our arrival her glossy raven hair blowing against the bustling Autumn wind.

“Hey Lex”, Kissing both her cheeks.

“Hey sis, hows things?” She pulled back a little, both her hands holding my upper arms. Her eyes glassing over my face, ready to scrutinize my response.

“I’m fine, what’s with the third degree?”

“Well, I kinda know”

I turned to Lucy, furious. “Seriously? Can you not keep anything quiet?”

“Hey don’t be angry at me. I just said Connor crashed at yours, you just kinda dropped yourself in the rest of it” She smirked.

“Oh for fuck sake, Lex really? I’m not five!” I exclaimed.

“Ha I knew it! So, why are we still bridesmaid shopping if you’re getting jiggy with Mr. Sexy-as-fuck-fighter-dude?”

“Nothing is happening with me and Connor so can you both please drop it.” Sheer anger encased each syllable.

“Okay jeez, I was just asking,” Lex sighed.

“Look I’m sorry for snapping, but seriously, can we leave it? Connor doesn’t want to know, it was a one night thing, mistake. Done. Now, let’s go and get my bridesmaids some kick ass dresses.”

Selfridges was, well, tedious. Lex and Lucy couldn’t agree on anything. Two hours, twenty three minutes in the changing rooms, to come up with nothing, zero. Stress and nausea threatened to surrender at any given moment.

We were ready to dispose of the silk remnants and head over to Harrods, I had simply one week to find dresses for the maids. The one part of the day I had asked for control over and yet that was impossibility. I was completely in over my head in every sense of the phrase.

“Evie, look” A squeal of excitement oozed from Lucy.

“They are perfect, even Lucy and her gothic grunge get-up can’t not like these”.

I turned, not sure if I wanted to get my hopes up. Baby bean was urging me to replenish my food stocks.

“Wow”, they were perfect, dark and dramatic yet effortlessly chic. “Try them on, now” I shrieked, sounding a little too overzealous.

The girls looked simply stunning. Jet black lace sweetheart bodices were covered with a sheer tulle which crossed over one shoulder. Pinned with an ornate onyx brooch. The dresses nipped in at the waists and flowed to the floor in a cascade of ruffles. Only Badgley Mischka could design a dress so exquisite.

“Late Lunch ladies?” Lex offered. “I think we earned it”.

We flagged down a black taxi and instructed him to take us to Bella Amio. It was my favourite restaurant in the world. Cozy, warm and full of superb flavour full authentic Italian dishes.

The front of the restaurant was painted terracotta, with beautiful olive bushes either side of the stone steps which paved the way to the rustic timber front door.

We were seated by Carlo, the owner and most hospitable and charismatic man I had ever had the pleasure of meeting. His warm olive skin framed his chocolate brown eyes. His features all highlighted by his crisp white hair.

“Bonjourno, howa can a Carlo helpa yous beautifull a ladeez today?”

“Could we have some bread sticks while we devour your scrumptious menu?”

“Of a course, letta me getta you some”.

Carlo arrived back with enough breadsticks to feed the whole restaurant, I eagerly grabbed one, nibbling furiously whilst my glands salivated at the imagery of the delicious food menu.

“You is a glowing Everlene”.

A warm blush scolded my cheeks, deception and knowing proving to be a weighted burden on my shoulders.

“Thank you” I say with even more of a hue creeping across my face.

“What is the weird blushing in aid of? Learn to take a compliment girl” Lucy grinned over.

“I’ll bear that in mind”.

Plates of food consumed our table, mine being the largest portion, lasagne with a helping of garlic bread, side salad and gratinated potatoes. The scent was overwhelmingly intoxicating.

Lucy broke the silent destruction of my meal “So have you spoken to Connor?”

I wanted to choke on the lump of bread stored in my mouth, “I told you Lucy, he is not interested. If he was I would have heard from him”.

“Okay, but let’s say hypothetically he had tried to get in touch with you, would that alter your view?” Her face beamed towards me with so many unsaid words, lingering on my response.

“But he hasn’t, so hypothetically, I would tell him to poke it where the sun doesn’t shine”.

Lex erupted into fits of laughter. I couldn’t quite contain the serious tone in which my comment intended and gave into the laughter. The rest of our meal avoided the subject of Connor. The realisation that he used me still hurt. I still longed for his touch. To hear his voice, to see his face.

* * *

We arrived back at Lucy’s by five. The sun had surrendered to dusk, and the night sky was flecked with the brilliance of the stars. The bitterness of the night air was chilling. Yet thoughts of Connor warmed my body. We stepped into the comforting interior of Lucy’s flat. Before I was barely able to comprehend I felt as if the air had been knocked out of me. My body lacked the coherency to string together any literate sentence. I stood, grounded, as if roots had penetrated the oak floor boards and caged me to a stand.

“Hi Evie”, his voice, so silky, bittersweet. Temptation. The bliss of his eyes staring into mine. The lust was evident. The rise and fall of his chest. The depth of his increased breathing. I stood, unable to move. Unable to speak. Tears welling, ready to release to my yearning for him. I bit back the unshed tears with every ounce of strength I possessed. I could not let him see my feelings for him. Baby bean had changed everything.

“Hi”, I stuttered.

Lucy’s eyes were glaring at me, her bright white smile urging me to talk to him. To be happy at his presence.

“Been a while,” He smouldered.

Anger crashed through my core. How dare he be so callous. “Yeah, you could say that”, I sneered.

I dropped my gaze and strode past him, making a clear conscious decision not to make eye contact. He would not hurt me.

I walked through to the living room. Travie was sprawled across the large tan leather sofa.

“Alright Evie, you okay?”

“Good thanks Trav, how have you been”. I smiled softly.

“Not bad, not bad, you wanna drink?”

I heard muttering from the hall. “That’s okay Trav Ill grab myself one,” I didn’t need the inquisition of why I was not drinking alcohol.

Lucy’s kitchen was small and compact but overtly modern. White gloss units contrasted with granite work surfaces. I reached into the retro Smeg fridge and poured myself a glass of lemonade.

“Hey”, his voice startled me.

“Hey” I answered softly. It took far too much energy trying to stay angry at Connor. He made my body feel things that I had never felt before, safe, calm.

“Can we talk?” I heard the slight hesitation in his voice.

“Yeah I suppose.”

He pulled the kitchen door closed. The moments of silence were intense. So many unanswered questions and so many lies about to be shared.

He turned to face me, stepping towards me. Bringing both our bodies into a closer proximity. The scent of him was mouth watering. He managed to turn me into a quivering mass of hormones in a matter of minutes. His hand reached up to stroke my face. I pulled away, bringing my back to the edge of the work counter. “Don’t, just don’t.”

“I don’t get it Evie, what’s changed?” he sighed. “You said you wanted to be with me?”

“Connor, you walked away, I heard nothing from you, not a thing and you expect me to wait for you patiently, hoping you may want me?”

“Is that what you think? Evie, you said you needed time. I gave you time. To figure out what you wanted, to talk to Henry.”

I choked down the lump dwelling in my throat, praying for this to stop hurting. To rather not hear the words he was saying. It was easier to believe he didn’t want me, than to know that I have to walk away.

“It’s too late Connor, too late.” Tears pricked.

“Evie, please don’t think I don’t want you, I came, I came to see you, but he was there, what was I meant to do? I didn’t have your number. Evie, please, just give us a chance.” His voice was eager, pained. The strength of his arms slipped around me, cradling me within his chest.

“It’s too late, I’m sorry I can’t”. It took all of the strength I had to pull away from his embrace. To break away from him. To lose him completely and utterly.

“You don’t mean it, it’s the wedding, you’re scared.”

He was right, I was scared, but baby bean was not something I was willing to compromise. With all of the unintended spite I could gather I prepared myself for the next few words, knowing I would push him away for good.

“I felt nothing Connor. I love Henry. I don’t love you, I don’t want you. Now will you believe me? I have considered you but I feel nothing for you”.

His eyes looking over me trying to scrutinize my response.

“I am sorry. I just don’t feel it”. I said softly, biting back the tears ready to escape.

“Okay Evie. I am sorry. If that’s what you want, if that’s how you feel, then I will leave you alone”. He sighed.

I placed my hand on the handle of the door ready to walk way for good.

“Good luck with your wedding Evie”.

I turned to look at him one last time.

“You will make a beautiful bride.”

Why did this moment break my heart more than Henry’s unfaithfulness?

Chapter 19

An entire day had passed since I had to walk away from the one man who made me feel alive. I had tried to conjure any emotions to help expel the feeling of internal hate that had swarmed within. Nothing worked. I was numb. Broken.

Today was my hen night. A day of celebratory fun with the two women in my life that I loved to death. A celebration of my impending marriage to the man I was to spend the rest of my years with. The man I was meant to love and cherish, until death do us part. I did not want to celebrate. I stared out of our bedroom window into the bleak daylight. Rain drops spilling uncontrollably onto the passing streets. I wanted to mourn.

“You okay darling?” Henry asked as his hands slipped around my waist.

My body instantly tensed, his touch was awkward, uncomfortable.

“I am fine darling, things are just so surreal, the wedding is just a week away.” I sighed automatically. “I am just tired, the baby I assume.”

Henry snorted, “Well this is just the beginning Everline, you are going to become far more drained, no doubt our nonexistent sex life if going to suffer further more” His tone snide and repulsed, “should have just waited Everline, but you wanted it, so you are going to have to deal with the consequences.

His arms abruptly pulled away from my body. I turned to face him, “Henry darling, I’m sorry. I don’t mean to distance myself. I am sure I will be fine once I progress into it.”

“Until of course you are too fat and uncomfortable to let me near you.” His eyes bitter, full of hate for my choice.

“Henry I am so sorry, I promise we will be fine, I will try harder, for us. For you.” I raised my hand to touch the side of his face. Dashed with raw stubble he pulled away at my movement.

“You better get finished, Lucy will be here soon.” Henry turned his back to me and stalked out of the room. My body filtered in the much needed oxygen it required to function.

I continued to pack the large Louis Vuitton weekend bag. Filled with essentials, make-up, lingerie, clothes. Pulling the zip I carried the bag across the landing and down the flight of stairs. As is by some miracle Lucy was standing in the hall. Waiting to be my saviour.

“All set honey bun? Let’s go get our fix of men and alcohol.”

I hesitantly looked over to catch Henry’s reaction at Lucy’s lewd declaration. Lucy must have caught my awkwardness.

“Take a chill pill Henry, getting far to miserable in your old age.”

“Lucy” I snapped.

“Bye,” Henry barked, “I will see you tomorrow, coherent I hope”. He walked away into the kitchen, not looking back.

“Someone’s pissed” Lucy sniggered.

“Just leave it Luce, I am really not in the mood for your analytical breakdown of Henry and his moods.”

We loaded Lucy’s sleek black Mercedes coupe with my bag, her boot barely able to contain any more baggage yet we still had Lex to fit in. As I sunk into the deep bucket seats felt exceptionally happier, like a burden of doubt had been lifted and for the next twenty four hours we were going to tear up Brighton, miles away from reality.

We pulled up outside Alexis’ apartment. The sound of the horn blaring pulled Lex from the inside of her home. We had declared our arrival. Callum carried Lex’s bags to the car, bags, plural. For one night she had two weekend bags. Never one to travel light.

“Staying somewhere nice Lex?” I mocked.

“No, I just know how drab your Henry authorised wardrobe is, so I snuck ya some sexy numbers in.” Her flashing wink and grinning smile tickled me within.

“Climb in Lex, let’s get going, we have a chocolate shop to pig out in, slutty clothes to dress up in and male strippers awaiting our presence.” Lucy was beyond excited about our impending night. “I… um, see you tomorrow… um then”, Callum stuttered, sounding very nervous at the line up of events we had planned.

“It’s okay babe, you know it’s only fair, you have your half naked stripper groupies and I have my fully naked gyrating men to dance for me”. Callum’s face turned a deeper shade of crimson.

“Bye, baby, see you tomorrow.”

Lex jumped in the back.

“Ah, how positively repulsive,”

“Leave her alone Lucy, you know he is whipped.”

“Both of you, seriously!” Lex exclaimed.

“Hell yeah, pussy whipped.” Lucy giggled.

For once I was loving the attention focusing on someone else’s relationship other than mine.

We arrived in Brighton a little after one. The costal waves were choppy but the atmosphere was electric. Brighton was full of eclectic mixes, the pier full of novelty games and roller coasters that would warrant shutting down if they were on normal ground.

We walked into The Grand, a huge off white institution perched contentedly at the centre of one of the most iconic British seafronts. The Grand was beautiful, inside and out. The Victorian architecture was extravagantly beautiful. The lobby consisted of a dramatic spiralling staircase which leads us to our sea front view room. We unloaded our bags swiftly, determined to head down to the Lanes before closing.

We wandered along the cobbled path ways, in awe of all of the beautifully unique trinkets that filled the glass fronted boutiques. Each store completely distinct; yet all complimentary to one another. We shopped for a few hours before coming to a complete standstill.

“Oh my bloody God, we have got to go in here!” Lucy squealed.

Alexis pushed through us both, mouth salivating at the mass of chocolate which framed the window in front of us.

“I’m going in”, Alexis called back. Lucy and I giggled in unison.

As I walked through the doorway into the dark and dramatic chocolatier, I couldn’t help but be completely in awe by the abundance of chocolate before us. 19.50’s sailor girls sculpted from chocolate, hearts, solid plaques, mmmm and my ultimate favourite, chocolate covered marshmallows. Baby bean must have mummy’s lack of resistance to chocolate in any form too.

Hello ladies, how may I help you today?” A polite lady from behind the counter called over. Her jet black hair deemed even more dramatic than Lex’s, if that were even possible. It was darker than onyx, beautifully glossy. Her eyes framed in the same dark kohl, with bright red lipstick painted lips. He clothes edgy and bold.

“Hi,” I called over, “We would absolutely love some hot chocolate” I smiled.

“It’s her hen party, but I think the naked men are going to have to wait for a while” Lucy smirked.

“Take a seat, I’ll bring three Belgian hot chocolate’s over for you.”

We slipped into the blood red leather booth, all eagerly awaiting our dose of calorie intense chocolate.

“You are just joking about the naked men, aren’t you?” I questioned.

Lucy and Alexis glanced at each other, their reactions telling me all I needed to know.

“Yeah, um of course”, Alexis stuttered, “no nakedness whatsoever.”

“Yep, just a completely grown up, adult experience, involving nothing but fully clothed people this evening” Lucy added.

“Mmmmhhmmm” I hummed. “I believe you”.

“Three hot chocolate’s up” The raven haired woman said as she set them down on our walnut finished table.

“Thank you”

The hot chocolates were beautifully indulgent, finished with whipped cream, marshmallows and lashings of chocolate curls.

“So how are things going with Callum?” I asked.

“Really well, strangely enough, I actually trust him. I don’t really understand why I have been making an issue of the band for so long.” Her forehead pulled into a frown.

“Defence mechanism,” I countered.

“I suppose, just never realised how much more effort it takes worrying and stressing over the possibilities rather than just living each day in the moment.

Her words cut a certain truth with me.

“So, everything ready for the wedding”, Lex cautiously approached the subject.

“Yes all ready I think,” I didn’t actually have much knowledge on the wedding, “Vivienne has it all in hand I am sure”, I smiled, masking the awkward feeling of knowing so little about the biggest day of my life.

“That’s good, I suppose it’s nice not having to deal with the smaller things”, Lex offered, trying to diffuse some of the tension.

“Yeah, I suppose it is, it means I get to sit, sipping hot chocolate with my best girlies, preparing to not, see any nakedness of men tonight”, I winked.

“Amen” Lucy raised her hand.

We finished our drinks and settled the bill. As we wandered back to our hotel, the night sky had started its rapid descent. The pier was illuminated with brightly florescent lights. Contrasting so vividly against the backdrop of the sea.

* * *

“Slutty, or super slutty” Lucy asked whilst holding provocatively little slither of fabric in each hand.

“Oh definitely super slutty, how many times are we going to knock get to celebrate loosing Evie to matrimony.” Lex smiled.

“Hmm, maybe just slutty seen as we are going to do this at least once more.”

Lex burst into fits of laughter, Lucy soon joining her.

“Hey, what’s that meant to mean? I am so not getting married twice.” I laughed, “Well at least not for another twenty years, in which case your legs and boobs will be far too saggy to wear either of those whorish garments”. I smirked.

Alexis’ jaw dropped, pointing over at Lucy she shrieked “oooh she got you good. Perhaps just a little slutty tonight. You don’t want Travie having to fight his way back to you.”

After two hours, ten dress changes between us, we were finally ready. We walked out of the entrance of The Grand treading a very fine line to Pretty Woman.

“Right well let’s get this partay started”

We walked along the promenade before turning right into a slightly desolate street.

“Are you sure you know where we are going?” I asked hesitantly.

The street lamps worked intermittently, fire escapes and trash bins lined the road.

“Yes, it’s just up here”.

We walked a few yards further until we stopped at the front of a rundown building baring the name ‘Moonlight’.

As we walked through the bar it was surprisingly clean, edge and very, very camp. Hot pink and feathers were the featured fabric choice. Leather booths filled with an array of personalities, sailors, men in women’s clothing. Bright wigs, sequins and sparkles. It was positively perfect!

“A gay bar?”

“Hell yeah.”

We walked through the crowed until we met with a reserved table solely for us. Completed centred in front of the tiny stage.

“Last surprise”.

Lucy wandered off from us and walked onto the mini makeshift stage. Silent exchanges were made between her and the drag queen of the night. He passed her the microphone. Lucy waddled towards centre stage and cleared her voice. A deathly hush swept over the crowd.

“Hi everyone, guys girls, and everyone in between”. Laughter and clapping came from the audience.

“I am here with my very best girlfriends in the world tonight, because one of them, is getting MARRIED”. More cheering erupted. “Evie, has been my best friend since school, and now she is marrying a well of businessman” Lucy exaggerated her point by turning her nose up.

“Sounds like a tosser” Someone called out.

“Not far from the truth”, Lucy jokingly remarked. “So anyway, this rich business man is going to get my bestie for the rest of eternity, so for one last night we are going to celebrate her singledom with style, class and a lotta alcohol.” More cheers rang through the crowd.

“So to make this night even more special we have a few surprises for you Evie. Now I know you haven’t see Sienna for three years because she passed up the chance to stay in England for hot-shotting it to the sunny Florida Keys but for one night only, she has trading all of that in to spend the night in a Brighton Gay Bar with us.” She paused, and Sienna joined her on stage, her auburn hair still perfectly straight, framing her ever so gently sun kissed complexion.

“So I bet you are all wondering what any of this has to do with you, well, without further a do, I present to you…. the DREAMBOYS”.

Lucy and Sienna departed the stage and came towards us. I immediately jumped up and took Sienna into my arms.

“I can’t believe you are here”, I whispered to her.

“Of course I am, like I would miss your highly tacky hen night or your beautiful wedding.”

“You’re here for the wedding?” I questioned.

“Of course”.

Music started to bellow through the speakers and we pulled apart. My eyes widened at the spectacle in front of us.

“This is the non-naked part of the evening”. Lucy whispered into my ear.

The dream boys were hilariously good at being not-naked. Their bodies were groomed to precision, yet my mind could not help but wander to Connor, how his body felt on mine. All of my energy and happiness was being tainted by thoughts and longing of Connor. My lame excuses to dodge alcohol were failing, and I had enough of the night in its entirety.

“Hey Luce, I’m not feeling so good, I’m going to go back to the hotel.”

“Seriously? Oh no, what’s wrong?” Her eyes could not hide the disappointment.

“I just feel really nauseous, I am so sorry but I will end up throwing up if I don’t get back.”

“Okay, let’s go”.

“No you stay, don’t ruin your night”.

“I’m coming with you, don’t be silly, I have seen enough willy to last me a life time”.

“You and me both”.

We said our goodbyes to Sienna and Alexis’ they were going to stay and crash in Sienna’s room. The night could not have ended soon enough for me.

As I slipped into bed I longed to close my eyes and dream of his touch. It was the only time I had to relive being with him.

“Night Luce”

“Night Evie”

Chapter 20

The morning sun light was jarring. As I pulled myself into a seated position a wave of nausea consumed me. I dragged the bed sheets away from my body. Running as fast as possible to the bathroom, before spilling everything I had into the basin. I crawled to the side of the bath crouched over praying for a surge of energy to help me get to my feet. A light tapping sounded at the bathroom door.

“You okay?”, Lucy croaked.

“Just about”. The door opened and Lucy looked down at me, shocked.

“What the fuck? What the fuck happened to you Evie?” Lucy looked furious.

“What? What are you gawping at?”

“Your face Evie, your fucking bruised face” her stare intensified. I could feel her eyes contemplating every scenario that my bruised jaw may have arisen from.

Shit. “Oh…I… I fell. down the stairs.” I stuttered unnaturally.

“Don’t lie to me Evie. That is not from a fall”. The bruising was isolated to one area. Lucy wasn’t naive.

I could only nod.

“He did this to you?”

I nodded once more.

“I’m gonna fucking kill him, you can’t marry him Evie. He is a psychopath”.

“No Lucy, It wasn’t like that, please don’t do this, not here.”

“What was it like then? He accidently slipped, tripped and punched your jaw? Yeah I can see how plausible that excuse is going to be.” Sarcasm exuded from her lips.

I climbed to my feet, “I’m pregnant Lucy”.

“Pregnant?”

“Pregnant”.

“I am begging you, please don’t tell anyone else. Please.”

“What the hell? Does Henry know you’re pregnant?”

“He does now, but not when he hit me.” I quickly interjected. “He wouldn’t have done it if he knew.” I paused trying to control the strained whimper that caused my voice to break.

“Promise me you won’t say anything, please.” I quietly begged. “You said you would always be here. Don’t judge me, please. Not you. He loves me Lucy, we are having a baby together”. I sighed.

Lucy looked at me. He eyes filled with angst and sorrow.

“I don’t know what you expect me to say”.

“Nothing, I don’t expect you to say anything.” I paused. “I pushed him too far. He was away with another woman. I called him on it when he got home. I was vulgar. I shouldn’t have mentioned it to him. I am no better. Look at how close I allowed myself to get with Connor”.

“So he has an affair, lies to you, hits you and yet you are still blaming yourself for HIS actions”. Her voice became raised.

“Please don’t shout at me. It’s not as simple as you think. I am pregnant with his baby. If I leave him I have no job, no home, no family. How can I bring a baby into that? I have had sex with him once in two months Lucy. That’s not right. It doesn’t condone his behaviour but might explain it”.

“He hit you Evie”. A tear rolled down her cheek. “Has he done it before?”

“No”, I lied. “It was just this once. It’s not right but I was in his face screaming at him. If he knew I was pregnant he never would have touched me”.

“And you believe that?” Her eyebrows hitched waiting for my response. She didn’t believe that. I don’t think I even believed that.

“Yes I believe that”.

“Please think about this Evie, you have me, you have Lex, we can help. You don’t have to stay with him.”

“This isn’t about me anymore.”

The atmosphere between us was tense. I knew she was only looking out for my best interests.

“I should go”.

“I love you Evie. You know that. But if you go back to him I will not be there to watch you marry him”.

Tears welled in both of our eyes and I wrapped my arms around her. “I know”. I whispered.

Her arms held me in a tight embrace.

We were saying goodbye.

Chapter 21

The past six days had passed in quick succession. It was finally here. Today, in three hours precisely I would become Mrs. Webber.

I had barely seen Henry for the past week. I was unexpectedly relieved by this. The wedding had taken over. Henry and his mother has meeting after meeting with the wedding planner, florists, venue and caterers. I was a mere addition to the room. My suggestions went unnoticed and my opinion never asked. Vivienne was thrilled. She wanted to be in charge. Boss people about and control every aspect of her dear son’s life. This was her chance to shine and boy was she doing it.

I climbed out of my bath. It was time. I couldn’t hide in here any longer. As I walked through to my bedroom wrapped in my silk robe I was take a back by the vision of Lex, she was stunning.

“Wow, Lex you look beautiful”, I teared up seeing the loving looking she had in her eyes. Alexis was evolving into such a beautiful young woman.

“Oh don’t make me cry sis. I’ve just had my make up done”. She hugged me tightly and I didn’t want to let her go. If I did I was afraid I would finally loose every link to my family.

“Shame Lucy couldn’t come. I can’t believe she has food poisoning”.

I knew in my gut Lucy wouldn’t come today, but a small part of me kept wishing for the impossible. Hoping.

“I know, I’m going to miss her today”.

“Come on don’t cry.”

I sat in front of the propped up mirror the hair stylish has brought with her. I didn’t recognize myself. The face in the mirror was practically a stranger; it petrified me. I glanced down watching my hands unable to look at the woman I had become.

The stylist back combed and brushed my hair out. Sectioning it and wrapping large foam rollers in. Individually pinning them into place. As they set the make-up artist began her work. I rested my hands over my stomach protectively holding my baby. My tiny growing bean.

After thirty minutes of brushing and sweeping the hair stylist disappeared allowing time for the rollers to set. I sat, deep in thought. Trying to evaluate my life in its entirety. Trying to establish some sense of purpose. I was empty, nothing apart from my growing baby gave my life purpose. A tousled mismatch of images, flooding my mind, none clearly defining anything other than the mess of my existence. I haven’t cried in days, not once. Every time I try to summon the tears, it’s like the well inside of me is bone dry. There’s nothing there. Nothing left.

After twenty minutes my hair stylist returned. She removed the rollers one by one allowing my brunette locks cascade in soft romantic curls. Braiding two pieces of hair either side of my temples and pinning them at the back of my head. I looked into the mirror and finally I smiled. I felt beautiful. My hair was sultry boho and my make up was naturally chic. Smokey kohl highlighting my blue eyes. Lex unhooked my dress from the hanger and helped me slip into it. I stood in front of the mirror as she buttoned the back. I was consumed with fear and regret. Looking at myself in the mirror I was aware I should be blissfully happy. This is exactly how I dreamed of looking on my wedding day. I just found myself wishing I would be marrying someone else.

“It’s time Evie”, Lex called up to me.

I slipped on my crystal strapped Manolo stilettos and took my first step out of the house. This was it. No turning back.

The cream vintage Bentley was beautiful. The tan leather interior complimented the neutral colours. Lex looked stunning in her black lace dress. I wouldn’t have thought it possible to look even more outstanding than when we first bought them, but with her hair pulled into a side bun and her flawless make up she simply looked like perfection.

She took my hand and we sat in silence for the rest of the journey.

Chapter 22

As the Bentley drove into the grounds it really took my breath away. The 18^th century mansion was beautiful. Palladian, sitting centred in over one hundred acres of picturesque greenery. Hues of Lavender and blue wild flowers framing the perfectly sculpted architecture.

“Ready?”

“Ready” I smiled trying to frame the apprehension in my tone.

Lex slipped out of the car first, graciously. She walked around the front of the bonnet until she arrived at my door offering her hand to help me out of the car.

We walked arm in arm up the natural slate steps to huge double doors which lead us into the entrance hall of the house.

We were greeted by a smart looking woman in a dress suit.

“Hello Everline, My name is Greta and I am your wedding planner”.

I took her extended hand to shake it. “It is so lovely to finally meet with you. I will show you to your private suite where you can wait until you are ready to walk down the aisle.”

Greta indicated for us to follow her. She led us right into a stone walled corridor. At the end of the corridor was a wooden door with ‘Bride’ inscribed on it. Greta opened the door for me. The room was pretty and was filled with the scent of sweet peas.

“You have about fifteen minutes and then I will come back to fetch you. Your florist will hand you your flowers in the great hall then the doors to the ceremony room will be opened for you to walk down.”

“Thank you Greta”

Greta left the room closing the door behind her. The sound of the door shutting was my queue to exhale. Fifteen minutes. Fifteen minutes until I am a married woman. My stomach let out a groan, I haven’t eaten all day. I am starving and my baby bean must want something too.

“Hey Lex, could you do something for me?” Fluttering my eyelashes at her.

“Depends what it is,” she said coyly as her mouth softened into a smile

“I am starving. I haven’t eaten since last night and my baby is probably doing somersaults by now”. I patiently waited for her reaction.

“Baby!!! Oh my god, you’re pregnant?”

I nodded and before I could say anything else she grabbed me into a tight embrace.

“Of course I will get your poor starved baby food! Aunty won’t let you starve now”. She winked. Lex practically skipped out of the room. “I will be as quick as possible”.

I walked toward the large bay window which overlooked the meadow. It was beautiful. The tree branches swayed gently against the soft wind. The first indication of Autumn upon us, the beautiful amber shades of the fallen leaves. I wanted to enjoy this tranquil view and forget about today.

My thoughts were broken when I heard the door open. She was quick.

“You were quick, Lex”. I turned around.

My heart thumped vigorously. No. Not now. My body defied me, inexplicable turmoil poured through me. I could barely talk. My lips trembling.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” He tone was harsh and filled with anger.

“Tell you what Connor?” My heart sank; I knew what he was insinuating.

He pinched the bridge of his nose, “Please don’t do this Evie, not now”. I was about to speak when he continued. “He cheated on you?”

“Connor, he only did the same as what happened between us, I am the last person to judge on someone’s faithfulness”.

“He punched you”. He words were said bitterly harsh, not said as a question.

I flinched as his words floated around the room. The memory. The ear splitting thud of his fist against me jaw. The pain. “Connor don’t.”

He stepped towards me. My body betrayed me, wanting to feel his touch one last time. Our faces were just inches apart. I couldn’t help but look into his eyes, they held so much pain. His breath was so warm. “Don’t what? He punched you Evie, that is not what a man does to the woman he loves”.

A tear escaped and ran down my cheek. His thumb brushed it away. So gentle. Our eyes never parting. His face lowered, just inches from me. His breath against mine, so perfect. My heart melted as his lips pressed against mine. They felt as if they had been created just for me. So full and attentive.

“Don’t” I whispered, breaking the connection of our lips.

“You can’t marry him Evie, you’re better than this, you deserve the world and more. I want to give that to you. Let me… Please don’t do this.” His voice was sensually soft, he spoke as if it were a plea.

“You hardly know me Connor. You want me because I am the forbidden fruit. I am the chase that you want at the moment. Not the woman you want for your future”.

“Yes you are. I will protect you. I will take you way from him. He will never hurt you again”.

“I’m Sorry Connor, I have to do this”.

“I am not letting you marry him Evie, over my dead body”.

“Then you are no better than him.”

A knock at the door interrupted us. Greta stood in the doorway looking uncomfortable at the close proximity that Connor and I were standing in.

“We are ready for you Everline”.

“Thank you”.

As I went to step past Connor his arm reached out and took hold of my hand.

“You can’t do this Evie”.

“I’m pregnant”. I whispered.

His eyes glanced up at me. The shock on his face was confirmation enough that what Connor had seen in me was nothing more than a physical attraction. My heart yearned for him, but I could not be the woman Connor wanted. I was carrying a baby, another man’s baby. I had known all along what Connor wanted from me but the realisation of his reaction felt like a knife through my heart.

He dropped my hand and ran his fingers through his hair. I couldn’t speak. He may have wanted me, but he didn’t want a family. How could he? I had never expected that of him. I was utterly desolate. I had no capacity for any more emotional pain.

I stalked out of the room, knowing that Connor would not stop me now, this was it. Henry was my reality.

Lex stood in the great hall holding two beautiful bouquets. They were exquisitely filled with soft ivory roses, sweet peas and peonies.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t find anything to eat.” she whispered to me as we stood hand in hand. “The evil witch Greta confiscated the sausage rolls.”

The pianist began to play, allowing the sweet sound of music to fill the ceremony room. I inhaled deeply. Dragging air into my lungs. This was it. I slowly stepped into the ceremony room. It was filled with hundreds of people. Very few of whom I knew. Henry was standing at the altar, he looked handsome and charming in his dark slate grey suit. His eyes highlighted by the warm sage green cravat. I edged towards to alter, step by step. Trying not to stumble.

How I wish my mum was here.

Chapter 23

“You’re not going to marry him Evie”

Synchronised gasps filled the room. I turned to see Connor standing behind me. His eyes bloodshot with rage.

“Connor go”, I said through clenched teeth. “Please don’t do this”.

“I’m not going anywhere Evie. I am doing this for you and the baby growing inside of you. You’re not going to be his punch bag anymore.”

Henry came stalking down the aisle towards us. His face was seething.

“You better fucking explain this now Evie,” he hissed.

“I, I, I”. Before I could speak the back of his hand collided with my still tenderly bruised jaw. I couldn’t react in time to stop myself as I twisted and fell against the floor. Connor was instantly by my side. In one swift movement he picked me up and placed me behind him. He raced towards Henry. Fists clenched.

“So you’ve been fucking him have you” Henry spat out. His eyes glaring at me.

Connor’s tone remained calm as he stood face to face with him. Henry was quite tall at 5ft11 but Connor consumed him standing at least two inches taller and far broader.

“She hasn’t been fucking me you ignorant prick.” Connors voice pauses as he looks directly into Henry’s eyes to speak again. “I am a friend who happens to appreciate every delicate bone in her body. I am the person who will break down walls with my bare hands to ensure she is protected. I am the man who one day wants to be something more to her than just a friend.” He looked at me as he said the last sentence, ensuring I would believe that every word was aimed directly at me. My mouth naturally parted rendering me speechless at Connor’s declaration.

Connor turned sharply back to Henry, as if he had realised his real motive for this conversation.

“I think perhaps you might want to explain to your family and friends who has actually been fucking around as you put it so eloquently.” Connor announced, “Ladies and gentlemen, please let me introduce you to the real Henry Webber. The man who enjoys beating his fiancée and sleeping around with other women. The man who has belittled and abused her so dramatically that she was still prepared to marry him out of fear.”

My skin shuddered at the term abused, I had never once thought of myself as that person.

“You wanker” Henry hissed. He raised his arm and hit Connor straight in the face. Connor was a brilliant fighter and had blocked far more discreet punches than the lame attempt Henry had laid on him. Connor barely moved at Henry’s attempt to hit him. I couldn’t understand. Connor wanted Henry to hit him first.

A warm damp sensation flooded between my legs. I glanced down to see claret blood covering the lower half of my dress, increasing in size as every second passed. Panic set in.

“Big Mistake Henry.” Connor said while wiping the blood from his lip.

“Lex” barely a whisper left my mouth. Alexis turned to look at me. I saw the colour drain from her complexion as she noticed the pool of claret blood which grew across the marbled floor. She leant my head against her chest “It’s ok Evie, don’t worry.” I could feel the increased race of her heart against my cheek.

“CONNOR!” Alexis screamed, nothing but sheer panic emanated from her. He looked towards me and his eyes were murderous. Fear swept over me when I saw his reaction change as he looked down and saw the pool of blood. He ran towards me scooping me up into his encasing embrace. His chest felt so warm against my cool cheek. Connor made me safe.

My eyelids were weighing down; each time they met it became harder to open them again.

“Someone call an ambulance, NOW”. The fear in his voice was petrifying.

Dizzyness consumed me.

Hazy… Sleepy…

Darkness.

Epilogue

CONNOR

“Hey Trav”

“Hey dude”, Travie opened up his apartment door to let me in.

I had sat in doors all morning praying that for one moment I might have heard that Evie wasn’t getting married. As each minute passed I knew that my opportunity of being with her was grinding closer to an impossible halt. Nothing could take my mind away from her. He beautiful blue eyes, flecked with silver, glittered every time she looked at me. Her face was so pure, like an angel that was put on this earth just for me. This is who I was waiting for, this was my reason for life. But she didn’t want me. Not the way I wanted her.

I collapsed into Travie’s sofa feeling deflated and a little bit sorry for myself.

“Beer?” Travie called over.

“Yup, think I’m gonna need it”.

“Still pining after her then?” Travie smirked.

“Shut up and pass me the beer”. I could feel every muscle in my face tense. I was pissed off; pissed off for falling for a woman that I couldn’t have. Pissed off for letting her get to me the way she did. I should have stayed away. My life was good, chasing tail, getting fucked when I needed it with none of the commitment. But she made me want more. Want her.

Banging came from Travie’s bedroom, I glanced up at him “What’s that?”

He shrugged, “Just Luce, she’s a bit pissed off today.”

“But she is still going to the wedding?”

“Nah mate, something about an argument.”

“She is missing her best friend’s wedding over an argument?”

Lucy came bellowing out of the bedroom slamming the door against the wall.

“She’s been like this all week, worse today though.” Travie rolling his eyes, finding nothing about Lucy’s behaviour unusual.

“It’s not just a fucking argument Travie, you dick,” Lucy practically screamed at him. She rushed past us and grabbed a bottle of wine slugging it straight from the bottle.

“Stupid, stupid girl” she muttered as she walked towards the bedroom, bottle in hand.

I interjected, something didn’t feel right. “What do you mean stupid girl Lucy?”

She froze on the spot. As she turned to face me you could see her eyes fill with tears. She was desperate to speak but something was holding her back. Her free hand pinched the bridge of her nose. As her eyes squeezed together, tears spilled to the floor.

“Lucy, talk to me, please”. I begged. All she did was shake her head.

“I can’t,” she whispered. “I promised her”.

Travie stood up in the realisation that something much bigger was going on. He charged over to her and scooped her up into a hug. “Come on Luce, tell me what’s going on”.

She glanced down at her watch, “suppose it doesn’t matter now anyway, it will all be over in an hour”.

The pause in between her words seemed to last an eternity. My heart was raging against my chest. Suspense killing me every minute I didn’t know what was wrong.

“He hit her.” Her words echoed around my head. My fists naturally clenching simultaneously.

“He did what?” I was spitting my words at her.

“He fucked some other woman then punched her when she found out. She is still going to marry him. She doesn’t think she is worth anything more”.

Before I could repent my actions my fist had swung into the wall creating a huge open cavity. Travie and Lucy looked at me. Their eyes were full of regret. They knew exactly how I felt.

“Where is she getting married?” I barked at Lucy. Why the hell didn’t she tell us this before? What was she thinking?

“Botley’s Mansion, you won’t make it in time Connor. It’s too late”.

“Wanna fucking bet”.

“She’s pregnant”, I heard Lucy call as I ran from their flat.

Thank you for taking the time to read Gilded Wings.

Tainted Wings will be released in early 2013.