One Life Stand – Chapter 9

Ella laid in bed for a while, lost in thought. She hadn’t even bothered to change out of her uniform yet. Tired of ruminating, she rolled out of bed and looked around the penthouse suite.

No matter how much I think about it, I can’t figure out why he’s so dead set on me. Is there any other way to look at it? He’s obviously had a lot of chances with other women, and yet, talking with me one night is enough for him to be sure enough to marry me? And why weren’t any of the previous ones good enough? Something doesn’t add up.

Alone in the suite, she made sure there were no cameras before going into his room.

Let’s see what you’re hiding, mister.

His closet and drawers were only filled with clothes. She had never seen a guy with this much clothes before, and they ranged from suits to PJs to tracksuits.

Zero things hidden in his drawers… It must be somewhere else… Unless it hasn’t been long enough for him to be hiding stuff here. He had a desk in his bedroom. In the top drawer were the engagement papers she signed. I could easily make these disappear…

She had the papers in her hands. Leon’s worried yet hopeful face flashed through her mind. “Ugh, I can’t do this.” She put the papers back and closed the drawer. She checked the other drawers, but they were locked. Not willing to try out her lock-picking skills, which were practically non-existent, she thumped her fist on the desk and turned away.

Clack. Something fell behind her.

On the floor, there was a facedown photo frame. She picked it up, hoping with all her might that she didn’t break it, and she set it back up on the desk where she thought it was.

“Wait…” She looked at the picture closely. It was a picture of a young boy with his parents. He looks familiar.  

The front door opened, and she froze.

Crap. She rushed to put the picture back and, with a quick glance, made sure everything was in its right place before rushing out of his room. It took her too long. She came face to face with Leon.

He had tossed his jacket on the couch and was undoing the buttons on his shirtsleeve as he walked through to his room. He saw Ella coming out of his room and smirked. “Find anything interesting?”

“Um… I…”

He shrugged. “You’re free to go through my things anyway, so I’m not mad or anything. I mean, the way I see it, what’s mine is yours.”

“Is that so?”

“For the most part, yeah.”

“By the way, I thought you were busy this afternoon.”

“I got through my meetings and finished my work early because I didn’t want to leave you alone here too long. I was worried about you having another panic attack.”

He was worried about me? Maybe he was worried I’d be doing exactly what I was…

“Now, if you don’t mind, I like taking a shower after work. You’re welcome to join me, of course.”

“No, thank you.” She stepped out of his way, blushing.

“Oh, and we can go out to dinner if you want; just name the place.”

“Shouldn’t I be cooking? Isn’t that a part of my job?”

“You can if you want, or we can go out, or I can cook for you.” He walked past her. “Let me know what you want to do.” He closed the door and headed for a shower.

He’s super relaxed about this whole thing. Is this a ruse, or does he think it’ll help me stay calm? Does it matter?

“Not the decisive type, are you?”

Ella nearly jumped out of her skin. She didn’t notice his assistant had come in as well.

“Sorry about that, but I couldn’t help but notice you think over things a lot,” Zeke said.

“Depends on the situation…”

“Even running away can be because of thinking too much.”

“Um…”

“Zeke.”

“Right, Zeke. How much do you know about me?”

He pushed his glasses up. “I have investigated you, so quite a bit now.”

“I see…”

“Not thinking about running or something, right?”

“Kinda late for that now.” I’m securely trapped.

“Well, that seems to be your go-to, so I wouldn’t put it past you.”

“I…” He’s right.

“May I ask you to do something?”

“Sure?” She hesitated.

“Please don’t hurt him. He’s always been under a lot of pressure, and he will continue to be for the foreseeable future, which means he needs someone who can provide him comfort.”

“I don’t know if I can do that…”

He sighed and wiped his glasses. “How about you try before questioning whether you can do something or not? You seem to be quite the defeatist, Ella.”

Second time I’ve heard that… Everyone seems to want me to try with him… which I suppose makes sense given the situation. But how do I try?

“Might I suggest making him a meal? You can cook, right?” Zeke asked.

“I’m no five-star chef, but yes, I can cook.”

“Good, then let’s get to work.”

“You’re going to help me?”

He thought about saying it was to make sure she didn’t poison him and thought better of it. “Yes, since I know his taste buds and I need more than your word that you can cook. Besides, I’m hungry. Don’t worry, I’ll eat and leave before you two sit down to eat. Now, let’s get started.” He rolled up his sleeves.

“Thank you.” Despite the scowl, he’s not half-bad.

Leon finished his shower and came out of his room refreshed, while still drying off his hair. He watched Zeke and Ella chatting and having fun while they cooked. “So she can smile…” He sighed. “How is he able to get that reaction, but I can’t?” Leon had always been the ladies’ man between the two of them, and yet he was struggling with Ella while she enjoyed her time with Zeke.

Leon leaned on the doorframe of the kitchen entrance, his arms crossed as he watched them.

Once the food was done, Zeke set himself up with a plate of food.

“Thank you for the help,” Ella said.

“Thanks for the meal.” He held the plate up for a moment and turned to leave. “Leon… Uh… is something the matter?” He knew Leon better than anyone else, which meant he knew what that look meant; he was jealous.

“You two seem to be getting along.” He continued to glower at Zeke.

“I was just helping her make dinner.” He showed off his plate. “She wanted to make food you’d like, so who better to ask than me?”

“Tch, whatever…” Leon grumbled.

What in the world is going on with them? “Does that look mean you don’t want to eat my cooking or what?” Ella asked.

“What? No; of course, I want to eat the dinner my fiancée made for me.”

“And that’s my cue to get out of the way.” Zeke rushed past Leon with his plate, avoiding eye contact.

That was weird… Ella stared at Leon for a moment. “Are you mad or something?”

“Baffled mostly… Maybe a little mad.”

“Mad I made you food? If you wanted to go out to eat that badly, we can still go.”

“It’s not that.” Leon looked back to see Zeke closing their door. “It’s… Why is it so easy for you to get along with him, but with me, it feels like pulling teeth?”

“It’s not that bad…” she mumbled. “I generally get along well with people, but things are already complicated with you.”

“You’re resistant?” Leon brushed his damp hair back with his hand. “Ugh, I guess I should’ve picked a better day to approach you, but time is limited…”

“What did you just say?”

“Shall we eat? The food smells good.” He went straight up to the pots and looked inside. “I do love my pasta, especially with chicken and Alfredo sauce; Zeke knows me well. And did you bake… apple tarts?”

“Did I make the wrong dessert?”

“No… I just haven’t had them in a long time.” He couldn’t help but think about his grandmother, who used to love to bake, especially tarts. “I didn’t think I was gone long enough for that.”

“I will admit that Zeke had crust dough pre-made, but I made the filling… And you were in the shower quite a while.”

“I must’ve gotten lost in thought and didn’t notice.” He glanced at the time and his eyes widened for a moment. “Quite a bit lost in thought, it seems.”

“Don’t worry about it. How about you sit down, and I’ll serve us up?”

“I’ll help.”

After setting up their food and sitting down at the table, they ate in silence across from each other.

“So…” Leon struggled to think of something to say. Normally, he found it easy to strike up a conversation with everyone, so why was he struggling now? “This is delicious; you’re a great cook.”

“Zeke deserves a chunk of that compliment.”

“But so do you.”

“Thank you.”

He dug into the dessert. “Oh, now this is so good… Mmm…”

Note to self: he loves dessert. She couldn’t help but smile at his reaction. He enjoyed every single bite of it.

“How about we go on a date this weekend? Something… fun that will allow us to enjoy each other’s company…”

“Sure; I have no plans currently.” Technically, I’d normally meet up with the girls, but we haven’t set anything up yet.

“How about… going to an amusement park?” He had gone one time when he was a teenager with Zeke and a few friends, but never found another chance to go.

“Um… Okay.” She swallowed hard.

“We don’t have to if you don’t want to; the whole point is that we both get to have fun.”

“I’m just not great with some of the rides… like roller coasters that loop around and those fast drop things.”

“Don’t worry; there are always other rides and attractions for everyone.” He winked at her.

“If you say so.” The last time she went to the amusement park, she was on a date with one of her exes, and it didn’t end well. Justin had proposed to her there, and she ran away, knocking over a mascot in the process. The time before that was even worse, and Sebastian – who was her fiancé at the time – ripped her heart out.

“If you’d prefer somewhere else, like the aquarium, movies—”

“The amusement park is fine.” I have to get past this.

“Okay, good. It’s a date.”

“Yeah… A date…” Nathan’s face flashed through her mind. I wonder how he is… She finished her meal. “I’ll clean this up and then go to bed early.”

“Oh, okay… If that’s what you want to do…” Leon put his empty plate in the sink. “Thank you for the delicious food.” He kissed her cheek and backed away. “I’ll be in my office for a while. You can call on me anytime…” He noticed the blush creeping up on her cheeks and he couldn’t help but smile.

“F-funny; shouldn’t I be saying that to you? Considering it’s my job.”

He laughed. “I suppose that’s true. Goodnight, Ella,” he said, his voice filled with sweetness.

“Goodnight…”

After cleaning up the dishes, Ella holed herself up in her room and stared at her phone. Her friends’ numbers were at the top, and right below them was Nathan’s number.

I really shouldn’t be thinking about him now. Regardless of the circumstances behind it, I’m with someone else now.

Ring, ring, ring. Her phone rang, and she nearly jumped out of her skin.

“Nathan…?” She stared at her phone, unable to answer it. “What is he…?” No, we’re done; don’t talk to him… After nearly coming to tears, she denied his call and automatically called Alice.

“Hey girl, how’s it going on the top?” Alice asked, wishing she had gone looking at the view from the penthouse suite.

“Well…”

“Ella? Did something happen?”

“No, not really… but Nathan called.”

“…Oh… And what did he say?”

“I didn’t answer him; I couldn’t.” But it still doesn’t feel like things were resolved with him…

“It’s probably better that way. So, whatcha up to?”

“Leon asked me out on a date this weekend to an amusement park.”

“Do you want me and the girls to come along?”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea, but I’m nervous just thinking about going on a date now. What if I freak out and run away? What if I have an anxiety attack?”

“Hmm…”

Ella could practically hear Alice rubbing her hands together as she came up with a plan.

“What is it?”

“Make sure you let me know when you’re going… and you’ll go to the one closest to here, right?”

“I assume so… I didn’t actually ask.”

“Good…”

“Alice, what are you planning?”

Alice started to laugh maniacally.

“Alice?”

“Hmm? Oh, I was just planning on going there at the same time as you with the girls.”

“Then why were you laughing like that?”

“I’m not sure… Maybe because it’s fun, and it’s been a while since we spied on one of us. Man, I think I need to find a new guy.”

“Why? What’s wrong with the most recent one?” She would’ve mentioned his name, but she had already forgotten it.

“Too boring… It’s been a while since I went out with him.”

“I think you’ve both moved on, then. It wasn’t serious in the first place, right?”

“Not for me, at least.”

“Alice! Don’t lead people on.”

Alice was tempted to throw it back at her, with how many times she’d backed out on serious relationships, but she held herself back. “Fine, fine; I’ll be clear with the next one.”

“Thanks…” All I can ask for, I suppose.

“Gosh, how long has it been since we’ve been to the amusement park?”

“Since… Justin…”

“Oh, ouch, right… I forgot about that, but who proposes at an amusement park?” Alice laughed, hoping she didn’t screw up.

“We were only in our early-ish twenties then… and it was where we had our first date, so it was sweet…” It had ended badly in a public rejection of his proposal, and he snapped a bit after that.

“Time to overwrite the bad memories with good ones.”

“I guess so…”

“Come on, Ella; this guy is eager to make things work, so it’s going to be fun as long as you let it be fun.”

“As long as I let it be? What do you mean?” “Get out of your head and enjoy the moment. I’ll let the girls know to be ready to go once you tell us when. This is going to be fun!” Alice cheered and hung up.

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Continued in chapter 10.

Wolf in the Office – Amazon Release

Wolf in the Office is now officially on Amazon!

Leyla Afia has been a journalist for Echo Times for years alongside her best friend Malakai Linus, who started there at the same time. She’s finally been given a shot to interview political candidate Wilfred Ivo, but while there, she sees something she shouldn’t have.

Wilfred killed someone. Not only that, but he’s not human.

Freaking out, she confides in Malakai, only for him to reveal he’s a werewolf. He’s worried about her, and rightfully so, as the supernatural politician knows she saw something, and he’s taken an interest in her since he couldn’t hypnotize her.

What secrets are still to be revealed? Will Malakai ever open up about his feelings for Leyla despite the odds against them? How far are they willing to go to keep each other safe?

One Life Stand – Chapter 8

Ella and Leon walked to a nearby restaurant, Leon holding her hand the entire way, despite the number of times she tried to pull away. They sat down at a table with their order of chicken soup and grilled cheese sandwiches.

“Did you really have to hold my hand as we walked through the lobby?” Ella asked as she dipped her sandwich in the soup.

“Of course; it’s one of the easiest ways to spread news of our relationship.” Leon followed her method, though he’d never dipped his sandwich in soup before.

“Announce it to the world, why don’t you?”

“I’m planning to.”

“I was being sarcastic!”

“I know, but I answered anyway. Besides, I really am going to announce our engagement soon, but I was hoping we’d be at least on amicable terms by then.”

Makes sense. “I see…”

“May I ask, what is it you’re so unsatisfied with? Do you dislike my looks?” Not that he’d ever had any complaints from anyone.

She glanced at him. “It’s not that.” He is quite handsome… but also young… Gosh, it’s surprising how someone seven years younger than you can make you feel old…

“I’m glad you approve.” He chuckled. “In case you were wondering, I think you’re gorgeous.”

 A light blush crept up on her cheeks as she ate. “Thanks, I guess.”

“The night at the bar, I found you to be mesmerizing in both looks and personality. Do you dislike my personality?”

“I don’t know you well enough to give an answer to that.”

“At least you’re honest about it, and I admire honesty.” Not many people were honest with him growing up; they were out to get on his good side, so he learned not to keep many people around him. Zeke was one of the exceptions; he’d been with him since his high school years as his friend, and when they were out of school, he offered him a job as his assistant.

“So… How do we proceed with this thing? With the way you talk, it sounds like we should’ve been married before we even had sex.”

“That’s why you had to sign first.”

“But don’t people renege on things all the time?”

“Yes, and you still could, but that would destroy a lot of lives; most people don’t want to be the cause of others’ misery.”

“But what about those who get married and then divorced after a year or something? Would they take the company away even though you already went through the process they wanted?”

“Are you trying to suggest we have a temporary marriage?” He stopped eating and sat up straight to listen to her.

I actually hadn’t thought of that. “Is… that something you’d be open to doing?”

“From what my father’s told me, they won’t accept a divorce unless it’s for an extremely good reason and it’s tried to be worked through – with professionals if need be – before there’d be any leeway.”

“How can people be so controlling?”

Leon shrugged. “My father and his father have been that way for as long as I’ve known them.”

“That sucks…”

“You’re telling me…”

“I still don’t see how you can be okay with me…” Considering the number of times I’ve run away from getting married to men I loved, this feels so surreal.

His brows furrowed. “Tell me this, why do you keep making it sound like you’re not good enough for me? And please don’t say money; I couldn’t care less about that. I have enough for multiple lifetimes, as long as I don’t squander it, and I keep this marriage…”

She opened her mouth to speak, but stopped.

“From what I’ve seen and what other people have told me about you, you’re an amazing woman… outside of maybe a fear of commitment. You care about your friends and people in general. You’re smart, pretty, and conscientious, so I can’t understand why you act like I’m too good for you.”

Biting her lip, she looked away. I don’t know…

“I suppose we should work on your self-confidence a bit.”

Ugh, all this does is make me want to run away more, but I can’t. Literally stuck between a rock and a hard place. Do this for the people employed by him, Ella! This might be the only way I’d manage to get married, anyway…

Leon glanced at his watch. “Time to head back.” He paid the check and held his hand out to her.

“Are you going to do this every time?”

“Yes, so you might as well walk with your head held high. Besides, you have no reason to be ashamed.”

“Dating the boss?”

He shrugged. “People fall in love at work all the time. And so long as it’s not an affair, I don’t see why it’s a bad thing.”

“Preferential treatment… and all the questions.” Although, if I’m up in the penthouse all the time, they won’t have much of a chance to complain to me.

“Just say I’m private and said I don’t want you to talk about it; that should be enough.”

Wishful thinking… She sighed and took his hand. At least holding his hand doesn’t give me that creepy ‘I want to run away’ feeling. She didn’t have that with any of her long-term boyfriends, but she had a few dates where something about being close to them made her perturbed. 

They walked hand-in-hand back to the hotel and even through the lobby to the elevator. A few people recognized her and automatically gossiped about her.

I knew this would happen.

“Quit worrying so much; your direct boss knows about us now – and was actually excited about it – so you don’t have to worry about mistreatment.” He leaned in close. “And if anyone does try anything, tell me right away, and they will be swiftly dealt with, okay?”

She leaned away a bit and nodded as a chill ran down her spine.

“Good, because I intend to protect my fiancée.” Since they were the only two on the elevator, he tugged her closer and kissed her on the forehead. “You’re safe with me.”

The door to the elevator opened for people to enter, and she tried to pull away. Leon had another idea in mind; he switched so his hand was on her shoulder and pulled her closer as they pushed to the back of the elevator. He made sure no one else was close enough to touch her, using his own body as a blockade.

This place sure got busy fast. I guess even a hotel’s grand opening has people curious.

A few people glanced their way, but no one said anything. They made it to the top floor with an empty elevator again.

“Maybe you should’ve made your own special elevator.” Ella laughed as they entered the penthouse suite.

“I thought about doing it, but it seemed like a waste, since only a select few need to go up to this floor.” He finally released her hand when they walked through his front door. “I have work to do this afternoon. You’re welcome to familiarize yourself with… this whole place. Not much to clean yet, though.”

So I have nothing to do today? This place can’t be that big or filled, so it shouldn’t be hard to memorize where everything is. “Okay…”

He glanced back at her. “You seem unsatisfied. You can go help the others downstairs for now if you wish… or you can come with me. Although I doubt a business meeting will be of any interest to you.”

Definitely don’t want to go, but I am curious about what kind of meetings he has. “Do you have a lot of meetings?”

“Sometimes I have way too many meetings, other times, I’m mostly working in my office over there.” He aimed his thumb over his shoulder.

“By the way, I thought you had guards, but I didn’t see any outside this time.”

“Since my parents know about us and the engagement with the papers signed, they no longer have to be around me all day. I take them with me sometimes when I go out on business.”

“You… Your parents know about us already?! But… I still can’t even say I’ve come to terms with it, but you’ve already told them?!” She started to hyperventilate. “Oh my gosh… This is insane… ah…”

“Ella? Are you okay?”

She shook her head and fanned herself with her hand, hoping it’d help her breath better.

“Ah, crap…” Leon grumbled. “Come sit on the couch, and I’ll find a paper bag for you to breathe into.”

She bent down as he got near, avoiding his hand as her rapid breathing got worse. Crap, crap, crap, why won’t it stop? She felt the tears building up and tried to fight them back.

He rested his hands on her shoulders. “Ella, look at me.”

She shook her head.

Leon tilted her head up, his finger under her chin. “Everything’s going to be okay. You’re okay right now.” His hand still on her chin, he leaned in close.

“W-what are you doing?” She pulled away and fell back onto her butt.

“I was going to kiss you as a distraction for your brain with multiple senses… but it seems you don’t want me near you. You realize we did a lot more than kiss already, right?”

“Well… I know… but… I don’t remember it.”

“None?” He winced. He knew she was drunk that night, he was a bit too, but he figured even if she didn’t remember right away, she would’ve remembered, eventually. It stung a bit that she didn’t remember their first time together at all.

“Sorry…”

“No worries; it can’t be helped. If you can’t remember the first time, I’ll make sure you remember the next time… whenever that might actually be.” He sighed.

“Next time?”

“Naturally; though I’ll try to win your heart first.” He smiled.

“Oh…” Wow… This smile… is so gorgeous. He always lights up so much.

“And in case you haven’t noticed, you’ve calmed down and are no longer having an attack.”

“…You’re right. Um, thank you for distracting me.”   

“Of course; anything for my future wife.” He pushed a strand of hair out of her face and kissed her forehead.

He’s acting so loving right now; you’d think we were together for a long time. “Let me out of the contract.”

“Not going to happen, but nice try. Besides, you know the consequences of breaking up after we’ve done the deed.”

“Why do I feel like I fell into the biggest trap in my life… ever?”

He sighed, his brows knit together. “Please, stop making it seem like I’m some big villain who conned you into getting married. We talked, you read the contract, you agreed, and we settled the deal. Stop making this out to be something bad; I’m actually looking forward to spending my life with you.” He kissed the back of her hand.

“You’re too suave to have not been with someone.”

“I never said I didn’t have a girlfriend before; we just never had sex, that’s all.”

“Right…” I’m not sure I trust that’s true, but does that even matter to me? It definitely wasn’t my first time that night… Suddenly, Leon picked her up, cradling her in his arms. “Hey! What’re you doing?” She kicked, but it had no effect.

“Taking you over to your room to rest, since you can’t even seem to stand right now. Besides, with an anxiety attack, I can’t help but wonder if you need a mental health day or something.”

“I just started working; I can’t take the rest of the day off already.”

“Did you forget who your fiancé is? And if you want, I can claim you’re working and leave you here to rest with them none the wiser.”

“Are you used to skipping out on work or something?”

“Are you such a goodie that you never bend the rules even a little bit?”

“Well, no…” She had skipped class a few times in high school, but generally tried to be good. “But this is work, which I take seriously…”

“You just had a panic attack… or anxiety attack; I’m not sure which, so I think you’d do well to take the day off.” He looked at the time and walked into her bedroom, where he set her down on her new bed. “Look, I have to go to a meeting, but call me if you need me.” He handed her a business card. On the back, his personal number was listed.

“Thanks…”

“And please, just give me a chance to win your heart.” He winked at her and left.

This is all… insane.

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Continued in chapter 9.

One Life Stand – Chapter 7

Alice packed Ella’s things as she sat on the couch in a daze. “Are you okay?” Alice asked as she set up Ella’s bags near the door.

Ella glanced at her, her expression blank.

“Stupid question, I know…” Alice sighed. “Well, since you can’t get out of this, why don’t you try to make it work? Who knows, maybe you’ll even fall in love with him.”

Isn’t that what he said?

Alice sat beside her and took her hand. “Look, I know this isn’t ideal, but this is the hand you’ve been dealt, so you’re going to have to roll with it. I’ll be there for you as best as I can; the others will as well, and you know it. Any chance I can move up there, too? I’m sure there’s enough room.”

“I highly doubt it.” He was clear about others being up there… for now, at least. Although, he already invited Alice in for my sake…

Alice sighed. “I was afraid of that. At least this place is great. Hopefully, they won’t try to give me a new roommate; it’s you or no one!”

“Thanks, Alice…” I guess…

“I’ll visit you often.”

“I don’t know if that’s a good idea; might jeopardize your job.”

“Psh! He wants to keep you happy, meaning he probably won’t get rid of me unless I seriously mess up and he has no other option.” 

“Are you using me for job security?”

Alice shrugged. “It’s just a perk. Now, come on before he sends someone to get you.” Alice picked up two of her bags and tried to motion for her to pick up some as well, before opening the door.

Zeke and one of his helpers were waiting on the other side. They took the bags from them and headed off.

“Okay, not so bad having them help us bring your bags up, right?” Alice took Ella’s hand and dragged her out into the hall. “I’m sorry I can’t be of more help, Ella, but I think it’ll all work out in the end.” She held her hand and walked with her to the elevator, then she let go of her hand.

“What are you doing?” Ella asked.

“My break is probably over.”

“He called you up there; you aren’t on break.”

Alice thought for a moment and smiled. “I suppose you’re right, but he’ll probably send me away soon.” Ella grabbed her hand this time as they stepped into the elevator.

I can survive this with her around… But don’t I want to do more than survive? This is a for-life type of thing! Her grip on Alice tightened.

“Stop freaking yourself out,” Alice whispered, hoping the elevator music was loud enough that Zeke and his assistant couldn’t hear her. Ella always did it, though; she had a pattern of overthinking, which always led her down a bad, destructive path.

“What do you expect?” she whispered back. “My whole world has been turned upside down.”

“Wasn’t it already with the whole Nathan thing? So maybe this will turn it back in the right direction.”

That’s… an odd way of looking at it. Ella pursed her bottom lip as she looked at Alice, who smiled back at her. She huffed and laid her head on Alice’s shoulder.

The elevator arrived, and they brought her things into the penthouse suite, into her new bedroom.

“At least he let you have your own room.” Alice started unpacking right away.

“But for how long?”

“Until you two fall in love?”

“And if we don’t?”

“Then until you’re married? I can’t imagine him being okay with separate beds for that long unless you end up hating each other.”

“And even then, I have to stay with him…”

“At least you’ll be rich.” Alice shrugged, not sure what else to say.

“Alice!” That’s not the most important thing, but if we don’t work out, it’ll probably be the only thing I get to enjoy about the relationship.

“What? You know I’m not wrong. Besides, how about you stop being such a defeatist and give him a chance?”

“Me? A defeatist?”

“Duh, what else would you call it? You’re planning for a relationship to fail before you’ve even tried to make it a success.”

Ella went silent.

“Besides, if what he said is true about his first time being with you, I’m going to say he sees something in you that he didn’t see in others. I mean, you saw him.” Alice fanned herself.

“He saw a drunk, distressed woman who was easy to manipulate? Oof!” Alice hit her in the face with a pillow. “What was that for?”

“I saw the video; you weren’t that drunk.”

“Too drunk to be making a life decision.”

“Ugh, stop going back like this. What’s done is done, and now you have to live with your choices. Don’t keep putting all the blame on him. You wouldn’t have left the bar with him at all if you didn’t like him, and yes, that’s including if you’re drunk, because I know you. It’s not like you were unconscious and taken away, or too drunk to walk. There, the important things are put away. I leave any decorating to you, though you rarely decorate…”  Alice always thought it was odd how little Ella decorated. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to be a minimalist or to be ready to leave quickly. “Need anything else before I get back to work?”

“You’re leaving me?” Ella pouted.

“It’s our first official day, and as much as I like hanging out with you instead of doing real work, they’re bound to want me to do what I was supposed to. I’m sorry, El.” Alice hugged her. “We’ll talk soon. Do you… want me to explain everything to the girls?”

“Uh…” It’s not like I can hide this. “Yes, please; I’m not sure I’d be able to explain properly.”

“Alright, call me if you need me again.” Alice headed out.

“Have you calmed down yet?” Leon appeared, leaning against her doorway.

She glanced up at him. “Now what do we do?”

He glanced at his watch. “Seeing as the morning’s pretty much over, I’d say we have lunch, and then I have work to do.”

“What about me? This place is clean at the moment, and you have Zeke to handle most of your affairs, so there isn’t much for me to do, is there?”

Leon thought for a moment. “You will be free to work with other guests, but should I call for you, I expect you to come as soon as possible. Now, do you feel up to making lunch or should we order something? Or we could even go out to a restaurant nearby. I think it’s in our best interests to get to know each other better.”

“I’m… not hungry.”

He sighed and knelt down in front of her, pressing his hand to her forehead to check on her. “It’s best not to skip meals; it’ll eat away at your strength.”

“I guess you’re right…”

“Come on.” He took hold of both of her hands. “Let’s go out to eat at a restaurant nearby. We can have something hearty, like soup, and maybe you’ll feel better after eating.” The look he gave her was like a puppy pleading for attention.

Alice is right; I have to give him a chance. “Okay.”

“Great.” He smiled and stood, still holding onto one of her hands. “Let’s go.”

His smile actually is quite charming…

---

Continue in chapter 8.

One Life Stand – Chapter 6

After a weekend of unpacking and learning about the new building and surrounding area, it was time for their first official day of work. All the hotel employees working there stood in the large meeting room in uniform.

Jenny, who was assisting in managing the staff, stood in front of them all. She greeted them and explained how opening day was supposed to go. They went through staff introductions and they each got to find out whom they had to report directly to.

“Next, I’d like to introduce the owner of Hunt Haven Hotel, and our new boss, Leon Hunt.” Jenny clapped, encouraging others to do so as well. The door off to the side opened and a man with pale blue eyes and dark hair walked through, with his assistant a few feet behind him.

“Hello, and welcome to your new place of employment. I hope we can all work together to make this hotel successful,” he said, his eyes scanning the crowd until they landed on Ella.

“Mr. Hunt will also be residing here on the top floor in our penthouse suite. He will also be requiring a personal concierge to work in the penthouse suite for him.”

The employees chattered amongst themselves, wondering if they should offer or ask for the job.

“The personal concierge was already chosen by Mr. Hunt,” Jenny explained. “Miss Ella Luise.”

“Hmm?” Her head perked up at the sound of her name.

Alice nudged her with her elbow. “You were chosen to work for the hotty from earlier,” she whispered.

The taxi guy? Is this revenge for pushing my way in? Or is this a job opportunity with more pay?

“What are you waiting for? Go greet your new boss before I claim my name is Ella.” Alice gave her a push.

Am I supposed to be going to the front? Her eyes locked with Leon’s, and he nodded. I guess so.

“Congratulations.” Jenny took her hand once she got to the front and shook it. “You can go along with Mr. Hunt, and he’ll help you settle into your new position.”

Shouldn’t I have to accept it or something first? Out of fear of getting fired as soon as she got there, she kept her mouth shut. “Nice to meet you.” She gave him a small bow, as she always did with guests.

“I’m no longer needed here right now.” If anything, his presence made the employees nervous both because he was the boss and because they were curious about him. “How about we head to the penthouse suite?”

“Sure.” She glanced back at Alice, and Alice gave her a thumbs-up. “Let’s go.”

Staying a few feet back, she followed him into the elevator nearby, and he pressed the button for the penthouse suite. They rode up together in silence. Ella fiddled with her thumbs as she stared at the floor. Meanwhile, Leon’s eyes were on her.

Once they got to the top, he pulled out a key card and handed it to her. “You’ll need this to enter the penthouse suite.”

“Alright.” She took the key card from him and put it in the front pocket of her uniform coat.

“Make sure not to lose it.”

“I’m generally pretty good at keeping things safe.”

They entered the penthouse suite, and her eyes widened. It seemed more like a luxury condo than a hotel room.

“The bedrooms are over here…” He gave her a tour of his suite. “This here will be your room.”

She nodded at first and then froze. “Excuse me? My room?”

“Yes; I want my concierge to be the only one working on this floor for now, and they need to be available quite often. It would be inconvenient to have to call you all the way up here all the time. You do live in the employee dorms, right?”

“Well, yes…”

“You can even keep the room down there for your days off, but I expect you to live here most of the time.”

“I see…” Alice isn’t going to like this. We’ve been roommates for so long; how can we live separately in an instant?

“Your room comes with a bathroom suite, and I will allow you to use everything in my kitchen as if it’s your own, including the food.”

“Free food?”

“Yes; call it a perk of this job. I should also introduce you to Zeke Lerche, my personal assistant.”

The man who silently followed Leon around nodded to her in acknowledgement and headed on his way.

Do you really need a personal assistant and a personal concierge? How busy is this man? “Nice to meet you,” Ella said.

“Now, please, have a seat.” Leon sat down on his couch in the living room and gestured towards the spot beside him.

“Okay…” She sat down, making sure to leave a bit of space, and she kept her back straight as she gave him her attention.

“You will be the only person other than myself and Zeke who have access to this place. That means I’ll be expecting you to do the cleaning, and I may ask you to cook something for me. Is that a problem?”

“No…” As long as it’s nothing complicated.

“Zeke will manage my business schedule, and most of the time, you won’t have to worry about it, but if he requires assistance with reservations or something of the sort, I hope you’ll help him out.”

“Of course.”

“Being my personal concierge means a pay bonus, but it also means I expect you to be on call.”

Makes sense for me to live here then.

“Now.” He shifted closer to her on the couch. “Do you seriously not remember me?”

She moved away. “Other than stealing your cab? No, sorry.”

He kept moving closer, one hand resting on the back of the couch until she was cornered. “How is that even possible?” He reached over and pulled her left glove off. “Considering you’re wearing my ring.”

“Your ring? You must be mistaken.” She laughed and reached for her glove.

He pulled it away. “That ring’s a one-of-a-kind; it’s impossible to be mistaken. Besides, unlike a certain drunken woman, I remember our night together.”

Crap! She shrunk back as far as she could. There’s no more denying it now, I suppose… “T-then… pretend it didn’t happen and take this ring back… I assume you’re the only one who can take it off?”

“Correct, but I can’t pretend it didn’t happen; that’s not how this works. Besides, you already signed the contract, and we’re bound for life.”

“Excuse me? Contract? I definitely don’t remember signing a contract. Now, can you please take this off of me?” She held her left hand out, wiggling her ring finger around.

He sighed and pulled a suitcase out from beside the couch. He opened it up on the coffee table and pulled out a stack of papers. He pointed at the bottom of the contract. “You signed it.” He held up the page with her signature on the bottom.

“One, that could be faked. Two, what is this?”

“I assure you it’s real, and I have the video to prove it was you who signed it.”

“It’ll also probably show how drunk I am and make this contract null and void.”

He handed her the contract and pulled out his phone to show her the video. “You weren’t that drunk; seem more on the sober side to me.”

She flicked through it, skimming the whole thing as she looked for a way out of it. “Why isn’t there some sort of clause or something that makes this void if we want a divorce or something? And this doesn’t say we’re married.”

“It says we’re engaged and will wed within the year. And what you’re looking for doesn’t matter, because you’ve already taken my virginity, which means there’s no backing out from here.”

“I’m sure a lawyer… Wait, what did you say?” His virginity? Is he kidding? I know some people wait, but he doesn’t come across as someone who would…

“My family has a long tradition of only being with one person… forever.”

“Forever? Like, if one died, they still wouldn’t be able to take a new spouse?”

“Traditionally, yes.”

“That’s backwards, and downright cruel.”

“I agree, but since my parents don’t want to change the rules, I’ll have to abide by them. I can change it when I’m the leader, for the next in line, but I can’t save myself from it.”

“No one can be controlled to this extent. What happens if someone slips up?”

“I’d lose my company… Well, what will be my company soon, and a ton of people will probably be out of a job.”

Way to be strong-armed into this. “Shouldn’t it have been easy for you to find someone to marry?” I mean, look at you…

“You’d be surprised how much the contract can scare people away. Besides, I want to actually like the person first.”

“But you don’t know me. How can you say you’d like me enough for something so… monumental?” Is he trying to put thousands of people’s futures on me? How do you go against that?

“I know you better than you think. I personally picked the employees to invite here, and after we had that run-in at the taxi, I recognized you from your profile and dug deeper. After we talked at the bar, I knew I had found the right girl.”

“Are you sure you weren’t tired of searching for a wife and eager to… you know… and you’re using our drunken night together as an excuse to rope me in?”

“You signed the contract before we had sex, and I will admit to being tired of waiting, but I wasn’t going to jeopardize people’s livelihoods.”

“Kinda seems like you are, since you didn’t wait longer until you found someone.”

“I’m twenty-three, and I only have until I’m twenty-five to be married… so I don’t have the luxury of waiting.”

His family is insane…  “Twenty-three? You’re still young! You should have years to find someone still… someone younger than me, I imagine.”

Leon chuckled.

Wow, he has such a sweet laugh…

“You’re not that old.”

“I’m seven years older than you.”

Leon shrugged. “It’s not that big of a difference; I know couples with more than a ten-year gap, and they’re happy.”

“Normally the man’s older…”

“It does tends to happen that way, but it’s not like it has to be.”

“There’s no way I can convince you to pretend none of this happened, is there?”

He shook his head. “No, because I have too much riding on this, and since you’ve signed the papers, and we’ve already slept together, there’s no going back.”

“I could… get a lawyer…”

“You think you could get one to out due mine? And aren’t you worried about the other people?”

“Sure, but if no one knows what happened, can’t we… you know—”

“People do know about it already.” He gestured to where Zeke had headed. “My assistant, and the many people my parents have watching over me, know about it.”

“I’m screwed…” she mumbled, holding onto her head.

“I…” He frowned as he thought for a moment. “I’m genuinely confused; why is this so bad? You want to get married, but you’re afraid they’ll leave you eventually. With me, you won’t ever have to worry about that. Isn’t financial and personal security what you want the most?”

“Financial?”

“Once we’re officially married, what’s mine is yours.”

“But I also wanted to marry for love.”

“And how’s that been going for you?”

Her heart pinched. “…”

“Between what you told me, and the information I’ve gathered, you’ve had several boyfriends, all of whom have proposed, and yet it never works out. You eventually break up with them before a wedding can ever happen. Time won’t change the pattern.”

“It never felt right…”

“And at the current rate, I don’t think it ever would. I am a simple solution to your problems with guarantees you won’t find elsewhere. And yes, I know the situation is crazy, but it is what it is.”

“But—”

“Why are you so certain you won’t fall in love with me, and I, you? I mean, I already like you: you’re spunky, beautiful, and not afraid to question things.” His eyes sparkled as he looked at her. “More than like…”

Never even thought of that… “Because this is a crazy situation, and if your parents are so strict and want to stick to tradition, wouldn’t you have to marry someone rich?”

“They don’t care about that. Actually, my mom was quite poor when they met, and they’re still going strong twenty-whatever years later.”

“Oh…” I was hoping that would dissuade him.

He got up and knelt down in front of her. He took her hand, kissed the ring, and peeked up at her. “You’ll give me a chance, right?”

Her heart skipped a beat. Ha… Laying on the charm pretty thick, isn’t he? Wait, with this contract… “Do I even have an option, anyway?”

“Well… Not exactly, but I was hoping I at least swayed your opinion a bit in my favour.”

“Ugh, I don’t know what to do anymore. I don’t know what I can do.” She started to hyperventilate. “This is all… too much.”

“Ella? Are you okay?”

“How can you expect me to be okay? Ugh, I think I’m going to be sick…”

His grip on her hand tightened. “Do you need a garbage can? A pill to help? Anything I can do?”

“Make this go away?”

“You know I can’t.” He faltered. Her reaction to it was worse than he expected.

Can’t or won’t?

“Your friend… I’ll call her up here.” He pulled his phone out. “Zeke, bring up the roommate.” He hung up before getting a response.

“Why do you think she’ll be any help?”

He smiled at her. “Because she’s your friend; she can help calm you down and help you come to terms with your new life. Besides, I plan on spreading the news of our engagement soon enough.”

She got up and headed for the door. Leon grabbed her wrist. “Where are you going? The bathroom is that way if you need it.” He pointed off to the side.

“I’m getting out of here and away from you.”

“Ouch… A guy can only take so much rejection before it seriously stings.”

“Good.” She glared at him.

Hurt flashed on his face. “Why are you making me out to be the bad guy? You signed an agreement, and we sealed the deal not long afterwards.”

“I was drunk! You took advantage of me!”

“I was helping! And you weren’t that drunk; you sat down and read through the agreement before signing it. You thought it was a decent deal that night.”

“If I wasn’t that drunk, why don’t I remember?”

He pulled her back until she fell onto the couch. He straddled her and pulled his phone out, bringing up a video of her. He held it up to play for her.

“Ugh… See, I was drunk!”

“You seem coherent to me.”

“Should I come back later?” Alice asked, escorted in by Zeke. “I was told Ella needed me, but you two seem pretty comfortable to me.” Alice struggled to hold back a smile.

“No, I wanted you here to help her,” Leon said. “She needs to come to terms with her new reality, as she has agreed to a life with me, and she’ll need help to move to the bedroom up here.”

Alice didn’t need any more confirmation about what Charlie had told her. It was him, and that ring was truly special.

“Don’t listen to him!” Ella yelled. “I don’t agree to this.”

Leon rolled his eyes. “You already did, and I’ve shown you all the proof needed. Shall I show her, too?”

Ella gritted her teeth.

Alice approached them. “I’m sensing a lot of tension here. Maybe you should get off her for now. There’s plenty of time for you to enjoy each other when you’re not angry and confused.”

Leon got off her and sat on the couch with a huff.

“Good, now, someone tell me why I’m here.” Alice sat down across from them.

After a moment in silence, Leon spoke up. He told her everything she needed to know about their night together and their engagement. He had already checked up on Alice and knew how close they were.

“I see…” Alice pursed her lips as she sat back and thought. “I’m sorry, El, but the only way forward I see for you is to accept your new reality. I mean, even with a lawyer, I doubt you’d win… or they’d at least want way more money than you could afford, or that we could afford.” If she thought it would help, she’d give up her savings to Ella in a heartbeat. “Besides, isn’t it his father’s company that runs our old hotel? Meaning Charlie and Kyra’s jobs, along with who knows how many other employees’ jobs will be in peril unless you do this? Eventually, I mean…”

Crap… Ella paled. “How serious are you about your parents putting at risk all of their employees if you… don’t marry or have sex before getting married unless it’s the person you will marry?”

“As far as I know? Dead serious. Honestly, without going against it, it’s kind of hard to know if they’ll go through with it or not…”

Dammit. Ella grabbed a couch pillow and buried her face in it. I’m doomed.

“Maybe if you stopped seeing this as a bad thing, but rather saw it as an opportunity, you wouldn’t be so stressed and freaking out.” Leon sighed, his shoulders slouching. The more she had an adverse reaction to it, the worse he felt, but there was no going back for him. “And I’m sorry for apparently ruining your life…”

“Oh my gosh, how can you stay mad at him?” Alice lifted his chin. “He’s such a cutey, and has this innocent ‘I wouldn’t hurt a fly’ look.”

Ella glared at her. “I think he looks more like a playboy.”

“A playboy?” His eye twitched. “I may have fun flirting and… whatnot with women, but I don’t sleep around, and I don’t play with anyone’s feelings. I resent that you could even suggest that,” he huffed.

“I don’t know how it’s possible, but he keeps getting cuter… If you don’t want him, can I have him?” Alice swooned.

“No,” he replied right away and gently took her hand off his chin. “And stop calling me cute; no man wants to be called that.”

“What’s wrong with calling someone cute?” Alice pouted. She knew men that wouldn’t mind being called cute, but he wasn’t one of them.

“Now, are you going to get your things, or do I have to send someone for them?” Leon asked, tired of going in circles.

“You’ll let me leave this room?” Ella asked.

“Of course; you’re not imprisoned.”

“What if I don’t come back?”

“You already know what will happen to me and my employees, which includes you and your friends.”

“Wait…” I know the employees will be fired, but… “Other than losing the company, what will happen to you?”

“I’ll probably be disowned and thrown out, left to wander the world as a vagrant.”

“That’s a bit dramatic, isn’t it?”

Leon shrugged. “They’d probably see it as character building.”

“Has that actually happened to someone in your family?”

“Yes, actually. I don’t know what became of them in the long run, though.”

“Come on, Ella.” Alice held her hand out to her. “We’ll go get your things.”

“Ha…” No choice. Ella took her hand and let Alice drag her away.

---

Continued in chapter 7.

One Life Stand – Chapter 5

Ella looked at the map on her phone, not trusting Charlie’s GPS, and followed their every turn until they reached the hotel. When it came into sight, Ella froze. She knew the name sounded familiar, but she didn’t realize it was the hotel she had woken up in until she saw it.

There’s no way… She glanced at the surrounding area, hoping it looked different from what little she could remember from the morning. Crap… I think it is… Alice was probably right… “I’m so dead…”

“Ella, what’s wrong?” Alice asked from the back seat.

They already know about him, so… “This is the hotel I woke up in…”

“Oh, crap…” Alice gasped.

“Won’t that make it easy to return the ring though?” Charlie asked as she pulled into the parking lot. “By the way, you totally slept with your new boss.”

Ella turned to her with wide eyes. “Say that again? I think I misheard you.” Don’t tell me she knows too…

“Didn’t I already tell you who owned that ring?”

“…

“If you’re looking to avoid him, I doubt that’s going to be easy, but maybe he was as drunk as you and doesn’t remember much, either.” She shrugged.

“I can only hope so…” She stared at the building while the others got ready to take their luggage inside.

“Are you coming?” Charlie asked.

“I should be, but my feet refuse to move.”

“Do I need to carry you in there? You know I can.”

“Ha… I don’t think that’s a good look for my new area of employment.”

“Agreed, but I’ll do it if you want me to. Princess carry or over the shoulder? Or a piggyback ride?”

“No, thanks.” Ella got out of Charlie’s car and nearly stumbled, but Charlie caught her.

“Are you sure? I’m strong; I can carry you easily.”

“Thanks, Charlie, but I’ll be fine.”

“If you say so.” She pouted. “Stick close to me until you get to your room; I don’t want you to collapse or faint of anything. And here, I’ll take your luggage.”

The three of them headed inside and met up with the direct boss of the concierges and other staff, who had been waiting for the new employees to arrive.

“Welcome, Ella Luise and Alice Jenkins.” She recognized them from their profiles. “I’m sorry, I don’t remember your face.”

“I’m Charlie; I worked with them, and I’m just here to help them with moving in.”She held up the suitcases.

“Oh, alright. Thank you, Charlie, for your assistance.” She checked the clipboard and then pulled out the keys for their employee residence and handed them their welcome package, which was a thick stack of papers. “Take the door on the right, go down the first hall, up the stairs or elevator, and your employee residence will be the second on the right.”

“Thank you.” Alice and Ella took their keys.

“If you need anything or have any questions, give me a call or text.” She handed them both a business card with the name ‘Jenny Leif’. “Have a good day, and I’ll see you bright and early tomorrow.”

“We’ll see you tomorrow.” They waved and headed off to find their new home.

Ella opened the door on the right and immediately slammed into someone. “Oh! I’m sorry!” Ella nearly fell back, but Charlie caught her. She looked up at the man she bumped into. “I didn’t look before walking. I’m sorry.”

“You…?” his eyes widened as he looked at her.

“Do I know you?” An image of the man whose taxi she sniped flashed through her mind. “Oh, right; I’m sorry about the taxi, but I seriously needed it. Anyway, if you’re okay, I have things to do.”

The man stepped to the side, letting her and her friends by as he struggled to comprehend the situation.

“Is something wrong?” his assistant asked.

“I’m certain that was her…” he mumbled to himself.

His assistant, Zeke, looked down the hall at the girls and then back at him. “You mean, she’s the one—”

“Yes, that was her.”

“She didn’t seem to recognize you though…”

“It was her; it was Ella… But why didn’t she recognize me?” He knew they were both drunk, but they spent the evening and night together. How could she not remember him?

“I think we’re in for some trouble if you’re supposed to be engaged now.”

“There’s no ‘supposed to be’; we are engaged.”

“Even though she ran away in the morning?”

He huffed. “Doesn’t matter; she’s mine; I picked her out.”

“In the bar, you mean?”

“No…”

Charlie looked back at the man they passed in the hall. “That totally looked like Leon,” she commented.

“Leon, who?” Ella asked. I feel like I heard that name recently. Ugh, why am I so bad with names? Especially in my industry…

Charlie thought for a moment and smiled. “Just some rich celebrity, that’s all.”

“Oh.” Ella lost interest immediately.

They made their way upstairs and into their shared residence. “Wow…” Alice dropped her bags at the entrance and went running around checking out the rooms. “This place looks brand new and so modern!”

“It is new,” Charlie sighed and brought Ella’s bags to the other bedroom. “They recently built this entire building, so you better be extra careful not to break anything.”

“I’m not you, Charlie.;I’m not going to break anything. Ah!” Alice tripped over her own feet as she turned and landed on the dresser.

“Sure you’re not. If there was a vase or anything on the dresser, you would’ve totally broken it just now,” Charlie said as she checked on Alice in her new bedroom.

“I…” Alice pouted, unable to refute her.

Ella sat on her new bed and sighed. She took her gloves off – that she randomly threw on in the car beforehand – and stared at the ring. How am I going to fix this? Even Alice and Charlie shouting in Alice’s bedroom across the living room from hers couldn’t drag her out of her daze.

Alice and Charlie looked into Ella’s room, hoping she’d settle their argument, and both went silent as they saw her staring at the ring.

Alice knelt down in front of her and put her hand over Ella’s, blocking her view of the ring. “We’ll figure this out somehow together, right?” She looked back at Charlie, who agreed.

“Who the hell has a ring you can’t take off?” Ella cried out, still struggling to come to terms with it. “This is seriously insane!”

Charlie shrugged, figuring she’d heard way worse. “Think of it like a handcuff with an invisible chain linking you to your new fiancé.”

Ella stomped up to her bedroom door. “Charlie, thanks for the ride, but can you please leave now?”

“You want me to go already? I haven’t helped unpack or—”

Slam.

The door slammed shut in her face.

Charlie jumped back. “Rude…”

“I’m sorry she’s so insensitive.” Alice was sitting on Ella’s bed when she turned around.  

“I’m sorry, but can you leave, too? I need alone time to think.”

“Okay.” Alice hugged her. “Just remember, we’re here for you.” She left Ella’s room and went to argue with Charlie again.

I wonder if I could cut it off without severing my finger. The words ‘more than a million dollars’ rang through her head. If I was caught, it’d take decades to pay off… She laid back on her new bed. Maybe the owner of the ring will think they lost it, and they’ll never know. Under the assumption they don’t remember last night well either…

She curled up on the bed, staring at the ring. How many times had her boyfriends asked for her hand in marriage and she refused? And yet, here she was, only a few days after breaking up with her most recent boyfriend – who also proposed to her. He’d be crushed if he found out. I better keep this out of sight.

She pulled the glove back on and unpacked her things. She put away her clothes, set up the framed photos of her friends and mom on top of the dresser, and put Penny, the stuffed penguin on the bed, knowing she’d need her to be able to sleep in a new location.

Knock, knock.

“I have our papers in case you want to look at the map and whatnot,” Alice said through the door. “By the way, Charlie is heading back if you want to say goodbye. If you don’t want to, I can kick her out now.”

Ella sighed and rolled out of bed. “I can’t stay angry at any of you guys…”

“Great!” The door opened wide, and Charlie practically tackled Ella for a hug. “I can’t stand the idea of you being mad at me.”

“And yet you don’t seem to care if I’m mad at you.” Alice pouted.

“We have a different friendship, and we’re often mad at each other.”

“Don’t start again; I don’t want to hear you two arguing,” Ella said, feeling the pang of a headache coming on.

“Sorry,” both Charlie and Alice apologized.

“Well, I’m going to head out now. Invite me over sometime soon, after you’ve gotten the feel for the place and whatnot.”

“Sure.”

Charlie gave her another hug, ruffled Alice’s hair, and headed out.

“Do you want to look around the building and start memorizing it?” Alice asked.

“Might as well.”

Alice looped her arm around Ella’s, and they headed out with the map.

“By the way, we also have to go pick up our uniforms,” Alice said, pulling out the list of things for them to do for the day as they settled in and got ready for their first day of work.

“Shouldn’t this all be a part of the first day?”

“I guess it technically is.” Alice pointed at the paper. “We’re getting paid starting today.”

“Oh; works for me then.”

They spent a few hours roaming around the hotel as they memorized where all the amenities were. There was a large gym, both indoor and outdoor pool, co-working office space, dining area, game room, bar, casino, borrowing closet, and more. And they greeted some of the other new hires, some brought in from other hotels like themselves, and others who were brand new.

“I think this place dwarfs our old hotel.” Alice sighed, growing tired of wandering around.

“We’ll have to make sure we remember where everything is, but at least we shouldn’t have to visit them all the time,” Ella said. “Let’s go grab our uniforms and then grab some grub; I’m starving.”

“Me too!”

Laughing as they chatted, they headed to the front desk to inquire about their uniforms like the papers told them to.

“How are you ladies doing?” Jenny, the woman at the front desk, asked.

“We’re still getting used to the layout, but it shouldn’t be long before it’s memorized,” Ella answered.

“We’re supposed to come here for our uniforms, right?” Alice asked.

“Yes, I have them in the back office right here.” Jenny opened up the door and led them in. “Find your size, and you can try them on in the changing stalls right there. Take a couple once you’ve found the right ones. I’ll be outside if you need anything.”

“Alright, thank you,” Ella said as she went through looking for their sizes.

“Oh my gosh, these guys let you choose between pants, shorts, and different-length skirts.” Alice pulled one of each type out.

“Isn’t that a bit short to work in? I mean, you don’t want to bend over and… you know… show too much.”

“Depends on who’s around.” Alice laughed and wiggled her eyebrows.

“You’re going to take all of those, aren’t you?”

“Yes! As long as they fit, anyway. You should too; never know who might be a guest here.” She winked at her and went to try them on. “Dammit!” Alice cursed while Ella was still looking through the uniforms.

“What’s wrong?”

“I must’ve put on weight recently; my normal size doesn’t fit!”

Ella sighed and rolled her eyes. “If your regular clothes still fit normally, then they just have different sizes than you’re used to.” She pulled the next size up and held them over the door for her. “Try these.”

“Thank you!”

After they found uniform combinations that worked for them, Alice forced Ella to take one of each type as well, and they headed back out.

“Is everything alright? You two were in there for a while,” Jenny asked, and then eyed the pile.

“We’re allowed to take this much, right?” Alice asked.

“Yes, of course; just most people don’t seem to want the variety. I am not one of those people, though.” She leaned in to whisper. “I’m actually the one who pushed to have them.”

“That’s awesome! Thank you,” Alice cheered, smiling widely. “I think we’re going to get along quite swimmingly.” She wiggled her finger, pointing between Jenny and herself.

“I sure hope so; I’m going to need friends in this place, especially when I know it’s going to be more pressure than I’m used to.”

“Promotion?”

Jenny nodded. “And I want everything to go perfectly with the opening on Monday.”

“Don’t focus so much on perfect,” Ella said. “Focus on getting through the day the best that you can while dealing with any situations with a clear head.”

“A clear head?” she nodded. “That’s probably good advice; I’m prone to being a bit fixated on everything being just right.”

“Well, thank you for this and we’ll be seeing you bright and early on Monday. Come on, Alice,” Ella tugged on her arm to make sure she didn’t stand around chatting.

“Bye-bye,” Alice chimed, and they headed back to their new room.

“Are you sure it’s her, sir?” Zeke asked his boss.

“Of course I am. I chose her; I’m the reason she’s here, and we were already together,” the dark-haired man said. “I really didn’t expect her to steal my cab that day though…”

“But Mr. Hunt, she didn’t recognize you at all from that night.”

“She must’ve been faking it or something.”

Zeke rolled his eyes. “But why would anyone do that?”

“I don’t know, but she won’t be able to fake not knowing me for long…”

---

Continued in chapter 6.

One Life Stand – Chapter 4

Ella’s head pounded as she opened her eyes. Ugh, what did I do last night? She turned to look at the clock, but it wasn’t there. “Hmm?” She sat up and the sheet slipped off her, letting in a chill. What the hell? Why am I naked? Wait, where am I? She noticed her clothes strewn across the floor. The spot beside her in bed was empty. Did I come into a random hotel and strip before going to bed?

The sound of running water coming from the bathroom caught her ear. “Oh, no, no, no!” She bit her lip, stopping herself from screaming. I have to get the hell out of here. She rushed to pull her clothes back on, grab her purse, and rush out the front door, past the bodyguards who exchanged confused glances.

This never happened. She repeated the words in her mind while riding down in the elevator. How could I do something so stupid?! She bolted out of the hotel and flagged down the first taxi she could find to head back to the dorms, where she still needed to pack for the move.

Once the taxi pulled up near her hotel, she paid him off and ran to her dorm room.

“Ah!” she huffed and dropped to her knees just inside.

“Ella!” Alice rushed out of the bathroom after hearing the door open. “Oh my gosh, what happened to you?! We were dancing and having fun, then we turned around and you were gone. And then you weren’t answering your phone…”

Ella sighed and looked up at her. “I don’t know what happened; I don’t remember. I have a splitting headache and a massive hangover, though.”

Alice gasped. “We left you… drinking on your own…” Her shoulders slouched. “I’m sorry… But where did you go? Where’ve you been?”

Ella bit her lip as she forced herself to stand. “Well… I woke up naked in a hotel room—”

Alice’s jaw hung open. “Did you… have a one-night stand?”

Ella covered her face with her hands and let out a muffled scream. “I can’t believe this happened!”

“Um, Ella, what’s that giant diamond ring on your finger? Did you get married?”

“What?” She looked at her left hand and her eyes widened. In her panic, she didn’t notice it there. “What the hell is this?”

“Considering it’s the ring finger it’s on, I’d say it’s at least an engagement ring. So wait, did you just meet up with Nathan again and agree to marry him in your drunken stupor?”

“I… Did I? I can’t remember!” she screamed into her hands again.

Click.

“What was that?” Ella peeked through her fingers to see Alice with her phone. “What are you doing?” She lunged for Alice’s phone.

“Sending a picture to Charlie and Kyra. What else would I do right now?”

“Not spread rumours about me being engaged! We don’t actually know what’s going on.”

Bing, bing, bing.

“Kyra says she’s glad you’re okay. She was super worried about you. Charlie says it probably isn’t Nathan, because he can’t afford a ring like that even with his good job.”

“How would she be able to tell that from a picture?”

“Remember when she was getting married, she got super into the wedding craze? Even now she keeps up with it and is obsessed with jewellery and whatnot…”

“I mean, it’s a big rock, but I don’t think that’s out of his range.”

“She says the ring is worth more than a million dollars…” Alice nearly dropped her phone.

“She has to be trolling us… right?”

A stream of texts came in from Charlie, lighting her phone up. “Holy crap,” Alice gasped and grabbed Ella’s hand to get a closer look at the ring, comparing it to the picture on the website Charlie linked her to.

“What is it? You’re making me nervous.”

“And you should be; that ring is one of a kind. It was made for the Hunt family generations ago and is always passed down to the first son.”

“The Hunt family? Are they a big name or something?”

“I thought I was supposed to be the one out of the loop? Do you remember the name of the new hotel we’re about to start working for? Actually, even the owner of this hotel…”

“Uh… It’s written on the paper, and I have a general idea of the location, but I don’t remember.”

“Hunt Haven Hotel.”

Ella paled. “Are you telling me I slept with our boss?”

“Considering he’s married, I’d say it’s our new boss; his twenty-three-year-old son is probably the culprit.”

“Twenty-three?” Damn, just hearing his age makes me feel old… “Whatever; I’ll just find a way to return this thing without meeting him.” She grabbed the ring, but it didn’t budge. Thinking she might be bloated, she held her hand in the air for a while and tried again. “It’s stuck! Alice, help me.” She frantically pulled at it until her finger started to hurt. “Ow, ow, ow.”

“Uh… Does that ring have a little keyhole in the back of it?”

“Hmm?” Ella inspected the back of the ring. “Yeah, why?”

Alice tried to look up something similar right away. “Ha… It requires a key to take it off.”

“You’re kidding, right?”

“I know I troll people sometimes, but no, that’s what this says.”

“I’m doomed!” Ella moved over to flop down on the couch. “Who the hell has a ring that’s basically like a handcuff?!”

“The Hunt family, apparently. Let me look them up…”

Ella’s stomach did flips as she waited. “Well? What did you find?”

“Don’t rush me… It doesn’t go into specifics, but it looks like this family has some deep connections to their long-standing traditions, so I’m guessing it has something to do with that. I think the real question is, why would he give you an engagement ring?”

“Maybe he was just as drunk as I was.” Ella sighed, hugging the couch pillow.

“I guess that’s possible. And maybe he needs a wife to be able to take over the business; wouldn’t be the first time I’ve heard about that being a requirement. Oh, what if he needed to get married or the entire business would be given to someone else or dismantled?”

“I think we can speculate all we like, but we’re not going to figure out the answer…”

“Unless you ask him.”

“I’d rather not talk to him and just find a way to give the ring back.” Ella pulled at the ring again.

“But why not try your hand at a relationship with him? He’s hot!” Alice showed her a picture. “Like damn, even I might settle down for him.”

“I doubt it.”

“Okay, maybe not completely, but for a little while.”

Ella rolled her eyes. He seems familiar… Didn’t I take his taxi the night I was rushing back here because of Alice? Ha… I’ll pretend I don’t know him and hope he doesn’t remember me… and I’ll just mail him the ring back once I find out where he lives. She stared at the ring stuck on her finger for a moment. “Hey, have you seen the new uniforms yet? Any chance they come with a pair of gloves so I can hide this thing?”

“Why hide it? I’d flaunt a pretty ring like that all around,” Alice said in a singsong voice as she motioned with her hand.

“Are you kidding? I don’t want anyone to know what happened that night. Heck, I don’t even know what actually happened. I seriously can’t remember. Ugh! This has never happened before.”

“I don’t think it’s a normal thing to wake up engaged or married to someone.”

“I meant getting so drunk I don’t remember what I did the night before.”

“Yeah, that was always my job.” Alice giggled. Whenever that happened, Ella was nearby to take care of her. Alice sighed, realizing that she had failed to do the same thing for Ella. “We’ll figure something out, and I’ll go get you a pair of gloves to wear to work in, in case they don’t give us any. You start packing; I’m almost done already.” Alice bolted out of their room before Ella could even respond.

“Okay…” she mumbled and looked around. I know it’s just a dorm, but I’m going to miss this place. She entered her room, her thumb constantly poking at the ring, and pulled a suitcase and duffle bag out from under her bed.

She rammed all her things in and flopped face-first onto her bed, exhausted.

Knock, knock.

Ella groaned, not wanting to move. Maybe they’ll go away on their own.

Knock, knock. “Ella!” Charlie yelled and knocked rapidly. “I know you’re in there; Alice said you’re home.”

Ella sighed and rolled off the bed, landing with a thud on the floor. Charlie wasn’t about to leave anytime soon, and her neighbours wouldn’t wait too long before coming to check, so she forced herself to answer the door.

“What?” Ella opened the door.

Charlie pushed her back into the room and grabbed her hand to stare at the ring. “Oh my gosh! I can’t believe I get to see this ring in person.”

“Get your fill of it now; I plan on returning it… somehow.”

“You must be crazy! You know how much I’d give up to own this ring?”

“Um, if that’s the case, then I think you need to have a serious conversation with your husband about the state of your relationship.”

“Tch, I didn’t mean it like that; I was emphasizing its value and magnificence.” 

“I know it’s worth a ton, but it’s still just a ring. You can’t eat it, you can’t use it—”

“But it’s so pretty to look at. I could sit here all day staring at it,” Charlie said as she gazed at the ring dreamily.

“I feel sorry for your husband…”

“Hmm? What did you say?”

“Nothing,” Ella sighed and pulled her hand away.

“Oh wow, this place looks so weird without all your things…” Charlie finally looked around the dorm.

“We didn’t really have too much stuff here.” Most of my precious things are still at my mom’s house anyway… aside from Penny.

“I suppose that’s true, but you two had enough things in here to make it feel like a home rather than a staff dorm room. Feels so dreary now.” She shuddered.

The front door opened and Alice came in with a bag of gloves. “I wasn’t sure what our uniforms would look like, or what colour gloves you’d want, so I bought a whole bunch.” She held up the bag, smiling. “Oh, you… What are you doing here?”

“Wow, what was with that greeting?” Charlie huffed.

“I mean, it’s so nice to see you, but we’re busy.”

Charlie rolled her eyes and took the bag from Alice.

“Hey! That’s for Ella!”

“Ooh, these ones are cute.” Charlie pulled out a pair of white gloves with lace at the end. “But I think Ella would rip it; she’s a bit brutal sometimes.”

“Hey! I don’t know what you’re talking about; I’m delicate!” Ella grumbled. “And that’s rich coming from you…”

“Can I have them?”

“No!” Alice swiped the gloves and bag back. “These are for Ella, not you.”

“Tch, fine, be stingy. No going away present…”

“We’re the ones leaving; why would we give you a going away present?”

“Because I’m going to miss you two,” Charlie pouted and sat on the couch beside Ella. “Things won’t be the same…”

“I’m still going with it should be you giving us going away presents.” Alice sat on the couch on the other side of Ella and handed her the bag of gloves.

“Fine, how about I give you a ride? It’s better than using an expensive taxi or public transportation.”

“Uh…” Alice hesitated, remembering the last time Charlie drove them somewhere; she was speeding the whole time and rarely stopped for stop signs. “We… already called for a driver.”

“Cancel it then. I’m already here and ready to escort you pretty ladies to your new abode.”

“Do you know the way there? I mean, last time you drove us somewhere, we ended up being an hour late because you got lost.”

“I got lost? We all got lost! No one knew the way there, so why do you always bring that up?”

“Because we told you when to turn, but your GPS said something different, so you chose to listen to that over us!”

“Guys, please calm down.” Ella held her hands up, pushing their heads back and trying to block their view of each other. “Now is not the time for this. And Charlie, we’d love it if you’d give us a ride, so long as you obey the rules of the road.”

“Bit of a buzzkill, but okay; I’ll do that for you.” Charlie hugged her. “Are you ready to go now?”

Alice and Ella both looked around the dorm room, filled with nostalgia now that they were leaving.

“Yeah, let’s go.”

---

Continued in chapter 5.

One Life Stand – Chapter 3

After a miserable night of insomnia and crying, Ella stayed quiet and to herself as much as she could the whole day at work. She even skipped lunch, avoiding her friends. As soon as she got home, she was nabbed by three sets of arms and pulled into a massive hug.

“Guys… Thanks…” Ella sighed, a bit of her tension releasing, as she was glad she had friends she could rely on.

“Guess what tonight is,” Alice said.

“Um… No idea.”

“Friday night!” Charlie cheered.

“And officially your last night here, from what we hear,” Kyra said. “Even though you never gave us a solid answer as to what was happening.”

Can’t believe the transfer went so fast… and that a text was enough to set it in motion “Sorry…” Ella shrank back.

“We’re not here to make you feel bad—”

“We’re here to drag you out drinking at a bar near our new workplace!” Alice blurted out.

“Hey! I was supposed to tell her that part; we decided it before.” Charlie grabbed her in a headlock.

“Ah! Kyra, help me!”

“Quit it, you two.” Kyra smacked them both lightly on the top of their heads. “Tonight is about Ella’s… and Alice’s promotions, so let’s go celebrate.”

“I sounded like an afterthought.” Alice pouted.

“Of course not, honey.” Kyra patted her and then whispered. “But this is also to help Ella with her heartbreak, remember?”

Alice nodded. “Sorry…”

“It’s okay.” Kyra patted her again and then clapped. “The driver is waiting outside, so let’s get going!”

“Wait, the driver?” Ella frowned.

“Yes, we splurged, since we’ll all be drinking tonight.”

“Kyra, you always think of everything, don’t you?”

“I have to, since no one else will.”

They all laughed and hugged again.

Dressed and ready for a night out with the girls, they all piled into the back of the limo they rented.

“You guys got a limo for tonight?” Ella freaked out.

“I said I got us a driver.”

“This isn’t what I was expecting. You probably spent too much.”

“Ella, honey, remember who you’re talking to? I got this for way cheaper than you think, so enjoy the ride.”

“There’s a mini-bar!” Alice squealed and opened the fridge. “Tiny bottles! Do these cost extra?” she asked, not wanting to get into trouble with Kyra.

“All expenses included, but do you really want to be drunk before we even get to the bar?”

Alice pouted. “You have a point… But look at this one! It’s so tiny and cute.” Alice wiggled a pink bottle around. 

“Fine, but please don’t overdo it.”

“Yes!” Charlie stole the bottle Alice was hanging onto.

“Hey!” Alice grabbed at it again.

“No fighting!” Kyra snapped at them, and they both went silent.

Alice let go of the bottle and grabbed another one.

“You might as well adopt them; they’re both practically your kids, anyway.” Ella laughed and nudge Kyra, sitting next to her.

Kyra sighed. “I know, but I don’t want more kids – I have enough of my own – I want my girl friends…” She hugged Ella. “I’m so glad I have you. Make sure you still keep some time open for us.”

“Always.”

They arrived at the new bar near the new hotel, and Alice stumbled out of the limo.

“What happened to one drink?” Kyra followed her out.

“Charlie egged me on!” She pointed at Charlie and wobbled to the side. Charlie smirked and wiggled her fingers, waving at her. “She did it on purpose!”

“I guess your first drink will have to be water.” Kyra sighed. She patted Alice on the back and led her into the bar. “Come on, ladies, let’s have a good time.”

They sat in their booth drinking for an hour as they chatted in the busy bar filled with people drinking and dancing on the dance floor.

“I say we hit the dance floor and catch us some men to hang out with,” Alice cheered.

“I’m married…” Kyra sighed.

“We can dance with men and talk to them while we’re married.” Charlie nodded as she searched through the crowd. “Just no touching any naughty parts.”

“Charlie!”

“What? It’s been a while since I’ve danced with anyone.”

“Then why don’t we dance together?”

“We can do that anytime. Let’s find us some hunks to dance with!” Charlie rushed off into the rowdy crowd.

“I second that.” Alice ran off after her.

Kyra turned to Ella, who was sitting quietly as she drank. “Don’t you want to find someone, too?”

“Not really… In case you’ve forgotten; I just broke up with my long-term boyfriend…” She sipped on her drink and sighed.

Kyra sat down beside her. “I’m pretty sure those two think the quickest way for you to recover is to find someone new, even if they aren’t a long-term prospect.”

“What about you? What do you think I should do?”

“I think… everyone has their own way of dealing with pain and sadness, and you should focus on taking care of yourself right now. Maybe even focus on your new job.”

“Kyra, how did you get to be so wise?”

“I think I always have been, but I think life experiences have made me wiser. And raising three hooligans has made me strong both mentally and physically.”

“I think you should raise that number.” Ella nudged her head towards Alice and Charlie, dancing on the dance floor with a couple of men they’d never met before.

“If you want to include those two, you might as well add my husband to the bunch.” Kyra sighed.

“Really? Harry always seems so mature…”

“He is when other people are around, but when it’s just the two of us, or even when the kids are around, he’s… well… a big kid.”

“You have a hard life, Kyra. I don’t know how you manage it all.”

“By making time to relax with my girl friends, that’s how.” They looked over at Alice and Charlie and couldn’t help but smile. They were both dancing right beside each other and having fun. “Kinda hard to believe Charlie’s married with how she acts.”

“To be fair, her husband is gone most of the time, so she’s probably lonely.”

“True…”

“Hey, Kyra, I think someone’s eyeing you.” Ella nudged her head to someone sitting at the bar. “Why don’t you take Charlie’s advice and have a dance?”

“You know I can’t do that…” Kyra trailed off as she looked at him. “Oh my gosh, is that Harry?” She turned back to Ella, still wide-eyed. “What’s he doing here? What about the kids?”

Ella shrugged. “I’m guessing one of those two planned this, and your sister is probably babysitting, that poor girl…”

“Do you mind if I…?” Kyra nudged her head towards her husband.

“Go for it; that’s why he’s here.”

“Are you going to be okay on your own?” Kyra frowned, wishing one of the other two would come back over first.

“I’m a big girl, Kyra; I’ll be fine.”

“Okay, but call me over if you need anything.”

Ella nodded, and Kyra rushed over to Harry. At least the drinks are good. Ella kept sipping on her drink.

A blonde-haired man approached her. “What’s a gorgeous lady like you doing drinking over here all alone?”

“I’m trying to relax while my friends have fun.”

“Why don’t you just join me and I’ll help you relax.” He winked at her and held his hand out. “You know you want to.”

“Uh, thanks, but no thanks. I’m fine right here.”

“Come on, you came to a place like this, so you must be looking for company.” He grabbed her wrist.

“Hey, what are you doing? Let go of me!” She tried to pull out of his grasp, but it was too tight.

“What do you think you’re doing?” a deep voice came from behind the man.

He glanced back at the dark-haired, blue-eyed man and scoffed. “None of your business, so piss off.”

“What if it is my business?”

The man’s face contorted. “Who the hell do you think you are?”

He grabbed the man’s wrist and twisted it, forcing him to release her. “I’m her boyfriend,” he said and slipped in front of the guy to slide in beside Ella in the booth.

What the hell is going on? Am I that drunk already? Why can’t people leave me alone?

“You have a boyfriend? Why didn’t you say so?”

“Would you have believed her even if she said she had one?” he asked. “I’m sorry I left you alone to use the bathroom, but everything’s okay now.” He gently squeezed her shoulder.

“Tch… Whatever.” The blonde-haired man left.

“Uh… Thanks…” Ella glanced at him and kept drinking. Whoa, where’d this handsome one come from?

“Sure thing. It’s dangerous to be here alone, especially if you’re a beautiful woman.” He smiled as he gazed at her.

“I really came with my friends, though.” She pointed at them on the dance floor.

“Then why are you at this table alone?”

“I don’t feel like dancing.”

“What do you feel like doing?”

She glanced at him again. He looks vaguely familiar and pretty young. Probably barely twenty. “I want to drink my sorrows away.” She held up her drink.

“Must suck to be interrupted like that. How about I drink with you? You can even spill your grievances; sometimes it helps to rant about it all.”

“Why would you do that? You understand I’m not interested in ‘going home’ with anyone other than my friends, right?”

He chuckled. “I’m not one to sleep around, anyway.”

“Sure…”

“You look like you don’t believe me.”

What do you expect? Especially when you look like that… Head out of the gutter, Ella!

He smiled and held his hand over his heart. “I promise I don’t sleep around with random people. I do flirt a lot, though. As long as that doesn’t bother you, would you like to drink together?”

She glanced at her friends having fun. It might be nice to talk about everything with someone who doesn’t know me… She nodded. “Okay then.”  

Never in her life had she ever been as talkative with a stranger as she was then. She told him about the recent events with Nathan and then proceeded to tell him about all her failed, past relationships. In the meantime, she downed a few fresh glasses of beer and fruity cocktails.

Even when her words started to slur, his attention stayed on her.

“You’ve been through a lot.” He nodded and stared at his drink. “What would make you want to marry someone? You seem to think you’ll never be ready for it, but what if it’s just the right person or circumstances you’re waiting for?”

“How would I even know when it’s the right person? Even if I like someone… it never feels quite right… Nathan was good to me, but I didn’t feel like I could really talk to him. And it felt like… he might leave me someday.”

“Fear of abandonment?”

“Maybe… I don’t know…”

“What would you do if you were guaranteed someone wouldn’t leave you, and you were already… pretty open with them?”

“What are you talking about?” She eyed him.

“It’s easy to talk to me, right?”

She nodded.

“And you find me physically attractive.”

She nodded again without thinking.

“Would you marry me if I guaranteed you I’d stay with you?”

“I don’t know how you can guarantee that…” She stared at her empty glass.

“If I put it in writing that you’d own everything that’s mine if I tried to leave or cheat, I think that’s a pretty good guarantee.”

Her brows furrowed. I’m either completely wasted and hallucinating, or I’ve already passed out and this is a dream. “Who in their right mind would do something like that?”

He sighed and combed his fingers through his hair. “A man who’s taken a liking to you, who is required to get married to get their inheritance… and who’s not even allowed to be intimate with a woman unless we’re married or at least to be married, or I lose everything…”

“I must be dreaming, because that sounds ludicrous.”

“I agree, but you have to be the head of the family in order to change requirements like that…”

“Wait, are you saying you haven’t…?”

“Much to my dismay, no…”

“But how would they even know? There’s no way to tell something like that.”

The man looked around and nudged his head at his bodyguard. “I’m under constant surveillance, and on that note, they’ll even hack into the cameras to check on me…”

“That sounds… unreal…” And creepy.

“And yet that’s my life.” He trailed a finger down her arm to her hand, and she shivered. “So, what do you say? Are you interested?”

“An interesting situation, to say the least…”

He pulled a diamond ring out of his pocket. “All you have to do is say yes, and I’m yours for life.” He smiled at her and leaned in close. “Think about it. The marriage you secretly want. A man who will have every means to take care of you, and will treasure you his whole life. And you’ll never need to worry or be alone anymore.”

She glanced at her friends still on the dance floor. Not being alone anymore? That sounds good… She nodded without thinking it through.

“In that case…” He slipped the ring onto her finger and leaned in even closer. “You’re mine now.” He gently cupped a cheek and kissed her.

“Hmm?!” At first, she was surprised, and then melted into it, her body tingling. When he finally pulled away, she touched her lips. Holy…

“Not sure I’ve ever had this good of chemistry with someone.” He smirked and bit his lip.

Well said…

“How about we go somewhere private and solidify our newfound engagement?” He stood and held his hand out to her.

In her drunken stupor, she took his hand. He tugged her out the door and into the backseat of his car. “Go to the hotel.” He told his driver before rising the divider and turning his complete attention to Ella. “Don’t worry; the hotel isn’t far.” He pulled her onto his lap and caressed her as he trailed kisses down her neck.

Between the alcohol in her system and his blissful touch, Ella enjoyed her daze. Once they stopped in front of the hotel, he carried her all the way up to the penthouse suite, his bodyguards following behind. “Welcome to our home.” He headed straight for the bedroom.

---

Continued in chapter 4.

One Life Stand – Chapter 2

Why’d he have to do that? I’m not ready yet! Ella sat on a swing at a nearby empty park, trying to calm her nerves. The conversation with her friends from the night before played in her mind. Maybe they’re right… I just keep repeating the same situation… What is wrong with me?!

“Nathan, Bruce, Justin… and Sebastian… Who in the world gets proposed to four times, and yet never gets married? Ugh…”

Ring, ring, ring. Her phone went off. Nathan… She stared at his name, leaving the phone to ring until her voicemail kicked in. He texted her a few times, worried about her being outside alone in the middle of the night, and he begged her to answer his calls.

I can’t… She dropped her phone in the sand below her and gripped the cold metal chains of the swing. “Why does it never feel right? Why can’t I ever see a future with someone?” She dropped off the swing, landed beside her phone, and punched the sand repeatedly.

When she finally stopped, tears were dripping off her face, wetting the sand. “Why…?”

Her phone rang again, and she jerked back. “Alice?” Nathan might have contacted her about what happened…

Bing. Alice texted her. ‘Answer me or your stuffed penguin gets it!’

“What? No way; she wouldn’t!”

A picture of her stuffed penguin, Penny, that she had since she was four, popped up from Alice while she was holding a paintbrush up to her.

“No…”

Her phone rang again, and she answered right away. “Don’t you dare mess with Penny,” Ella snapped.

“You answered your phone, so I don’t have to. Penny is safe for now.” Alice snickered.

“For now?” I’m going to have to remember to always lock my bedroom door now.

“Yes, and unless you get your butt back home in the next thirty minutes, your precious penguin will be in danger again.”

“Thirty minutes? But I’m not near home and—”

“Times ticking.” Alice hung up.

“Crap…” Ella ran back towards the street and along the sidewalk, hoping to spot a taxi. “Taxi!” she yelled and waved her hand at one heading her way on the other side of the street. He stopped off to the side, and she rushed across the street. A young man with dark hair had also approached the taxi. “I desperately need this, sorry.” She nudged him out of the way and got in.

“What the…?” He stumbled back and stared at her through the window.

She gave him a wave and told the taxi driver her address. “Sorry,” she mouthed, cringing as they pulled away.

Ella watched the light from the lampposts flicker past as they drove to the employee dorms.

“Miss, we’re here.”

“Thank you.” She paid her driver and rushed inside to her room. “What the hell, Alice?!” she yelled the moment she entered.

“Whoa, geez… I knew you loved the penguin, but you actually got here with time to spare.” Alice glanced at the clock.

Ella held her hand out. “Penny, please.”

“Fine, you can have your penguin back, but tell me what happened.” Alice handed the stuffed penguin to her.

Ella hugged Penny and sighed. “The same thing that always happens.”

“You freaked out and ran away?”

“Pretty much.”

“What does this mean for your relationship with Nathan?”

“If it’s like the other times, then we’re done.”

Alice sighed and flopped onto the couch. “We just went over this the other night, and considering how you responded then, I’m not surprised. I am a bit surprised you didn’t come straight home to me.” Alice pouted.

“I didn’t even think about it. I ran out of the restaurant and stopped at the first park I could find.”

“A park? So that’s your hiding place…”

“This time, anyway.”

“So, do you actually want to break up with Nathan?”

“I… I don’t know… but when he asked, I freaked out so badly and felt sick, so…”

“That’s not a good sign. It’s one thing to be afraid or not ready—”

“What if that’s it?” Ella hugged Penny tighter. “What if I’ll never be ready to get married?”

“What is it about marriage that scares you so much?”

Ella squished her face into Penny’s as she thought. “It’s just so overwhelming… the thought of being tethered to someone for life. It’s restricting!” It’s risking a lot…

“But you were with him for years; would it really be that different?”

“Yes!”

“Besides, if it doesn’t work, you can always divorce.”

“It’s not that easy to divorce someone.”

“Yes, it is! People do it all the time. Don’t you know that Steve from the lobby has been divorced four times?”

“That’s… easier for some people than others, and besides, I doubt he’ll tell you it was easy.”

Alice threw her hands into the air. “Fine! If you’re this resistant to even the thought of marrying the guy after being together for years, then I think you should cut him loose.”

“What if I’m just not made to get married?”

Alice shrugged. “I don’t think I am either, and I have no plans to anytime soon, but I can’t completely rule it out, though maybe I should. And… I think you are made for it, but you’re not going to settle for someone just because you like them, and they love you.”

“You’re saying I only ‘like’ Nathan?”

“Girl, you ran away from him when he proposed. I’m starting to question if you like him at all.”

Ella cringed. How am I going to face him? “Do you think I should break up with him?”

“That’s your choice, but I say, put him out of his misery.”

“How do I do that?”

“The same way as the guys before him, I imagine.”

I was with Nathan longer than the previous ones… other than Sebastian. She shuddered at the thought of him.

“I know that look.” Alice pointed at Ella’s face. “And you can’t just avoid him until he gets the clue. You have to talk to him, in person, and tell him what you need to tell him.”

“Can’t you do it?”

Alice’s jaw hung open. “You did not just ask me to do that!”

“I know you can’t…”

“Give me your phone.”

“Why?”

“Because I need to tell the girls what happened, what else?”

“Then use your own phone.”

“It’s almost dead from all the time spamming you with calls and texts.”

“Ugh, fine.” Ella pulled her phone out of her purse and handed it over.

Alice laid back on the couch, her toes poking into Ella as she typed to their friends.

‘Like we thought, she ran away – Alice’.

Alice glanced at Ella to make sure she wasn’t watching her, and she texted Nathan.

‘We need to talk. Tomorrow night at my place.’

“What’s with that expression?” Ella frowned.

Alice switched back to texting their friends, who were asking why Alice was using Ella’s phone.

‘Mine’s dead atm.’

“They find it off I’m using your phone.”

“Oh… Can you plug in my phone when you’re done? I’m going to take a bath and then get some rest. We still have work to do tomorrow.”

“Wait, we’ve been so distracted by the Nathan thing, that we haven’t talked about the new job. Are you going to—”

“I can’t think about that right now,” Ella groaned and plodded off to the bathroom.

“Don’t blame me for what’s about to happen,” Alice said in a sing-song voice, but Ella was too distracted to notice.

The next day while on lunch break, Ella noticed her phone was missing. “Alice, any chance you brought my phone with you, too?” she asked, sitting down in their cafeteria.

“No, I left it plugged in like you asked me to, but we live right here; you can just go grab it before our break is over.”

Ella groaned. “It takes longer than you think to walk over there.”

“If you’re that lazy, then leave it there; it’s not like it’s going to run away on you.”

Ella shrugged and fiddled with her thumbs. “I guess…” Not that I want to read the texts from Nathan, anyway.

Charlie and Kyra sat down at their table. “So, is it true? Are you two leaving us?” Charlie asked.

“I’m sorry, Char, it’s true.” Alice held her hand over her heart. “Please wish us well as we move on to better things.”

“Tch, I don’t care about you leaving; I was talking to Ella.”

“Hey! That’s just mean! I thought we were all best friends.” Alice pouted.

“There, there, she didn’t mean it.” Kyra patted Alice’s back. Alice turned to her and lunged for a hug. “Whoa.”

“I love you, Kyra.”

“I seriously question how you got the promotion when you act like a child half the time.” Charlie sighed.

“Because it’s only half the time, and you’re one to talk.” Alice stuck her tongue out at Charlie.

“You little brat…”

“Quit fighting and eat your food,” Kyra commanded.

The three of them sat straight up and focused on their food.

“Good; if only my kids were that responsive…” Kyra mumbled. “And I’m happy for you two. Hopefully, there will be a chance for us to apply there as well someday.”

“But won’t that put you too far from your house? And since you’re a mother, it’d be extra hard on you,” Ella said.

“I guess you’re right… Charlie.”

“Yes, ma’am?” Charlie almost saluted her.

“Stay here with me; I don’t want to be the only one of us left here.”

“I wasn’t planning on going anywhere.”

“More like you can’t go anywhere.” Alice snorted.

“Okay, let me at the brat.” Charlie reached out to Alice, but Kyra stepped in between them.

“Seriously? Am I going to have to treat you both like children?” Kyra sighed. She already had to deal with enough of that at home.

“To be fair, you’re the only mother in the group, and the most mature in the first place,” Alice said, looking up at her, her eyes sparkling.

Ella’s watch buzzed, alerting her to the end of her break. “So much for even finishing lunch… Come on, Alice, let’s get back to work.”

“Our break can’t be over yet…” She tugged on Ella’s wrist to look at her watch. “This is your fault.” She pointed at Charlie.

“Why don’t you two take one less break so you can have a longer lunch?” Charlie asked.

Alice scrunched up her face and shook her head at Charlie. Tired of waiting, Ella latched onto her arm and dragged her away.

“Gosh, I’m hungry…” Ella groaned as she and Alice finished work for the day.

“Me too; at least you got a few bites in.” Alice rubbed her rumbling belly.

Ella stared at her blankly. “I saw you sneaking food while we were working.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

No wonder Charlie is mad about Alice being chosen. “Whatever. Let’s go home and get some food in our tummies.”

They walked together to the employee dorms and grabbed some leftover pizza from the fridge.

“Mm… Doesn’t even need to be heated,” Alice moaned as she ate. “It’s so satisfying to eat when you’re this hungry.”

Knock, knock, knock. They both froze with their mouths full of food.

Ella rushed to chew her pizza. “Are you expecting someone?”

Alice shrugged and continued stuffing pizza into her mouth as Ella answered the door.

Ella froze, her heart rate skyrocketing. “Nathan…”

He stood at her door with a bouquet and a bag of Chinese food. “Hey, Ella… You said we could talk, right? I figured we could eat while we’re at it. I brought enough for Alice, too.”

“I said we could talk? When?”

“You texted me last night…”

“I haven’t had my phone with me…”

They both turned their gaze towards Alice.

“You know what? I think I forgot to do something. I’ll be going now.” Alice laughed awkwardly and rushed past them.

Ella reached out to grab her, but missed, barely grazing the hem of her shirt. “That little brat…” she cursed.

“I take this to mean you didn’t want to talk to me?” Nathan cringed and swallowed hard.

“I…” she struggled to speak.

“Let’s speak inside.” He held the bouquet of red roses – her favourite – up to her.

“Thanks…” She hugged the bouquet and stepped aside to let him in.

He set the bag of Chinese food on the table and set up their food while his heart raced and stomach did flips. They both sat down with their food in front of them.

Nathan broke the silence. “Why did you run away?”

“Because…” Her breathing turned ragged.

“Because of what? You can’t talk to me? If you’re not ready still, then say no; don’t break my heart by running away.”

Say it, Ella, he deserves the truth. “I don’t know if I’ll ever be ready to marry you.”

He blinked a few times and swallowed, trying to temper his emotions. “W-why is that? I thought we were in love.”

“I do love you, Nathan, but… I just… I can’t… It doesn’t feel right.”

“What doesn’t feel right?”

Ella mentally screamed at herself as she tried to explain. “The thought of us being together forever…”

Nathan bit his lip as he leant back in his chair. “I see…” He took a deep breath and nodded. “I guess… that says everything right there.” He held back his tears.

“I’m s—”

“Don’t.” He held his hand up. “Don’t apologize… Is there a reason, specifically, for that? Something I can change? Like… the way I drive or sing too much or—”

“No… There’s nothing like that—”

“Then why?!” He slammed his fist on the table, and she jerked back. “I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to startle you… But, I mean… we were doing so well, weren’t we?”

Ella shrugged. “I mean, technically, yes. We were doing fine, just fine.“

“I guess fine isn’t good enough then…” He pinched the bridge of his nose and took another deep breath. “Hard to hear since I thought we were happy, but okay; I understand.” Nathan stood. “I suppose this is goodbye then…” He stared at the floor. “You’re going to be hard to get over, Ella, but know this…” He looked up at her. “I will always wish the best for you. I hope you find someone you truly love.”

“I… I hope you find someone, too.” She was about to stand, but he held his hand out.

“I’ll show myself out. Have a good life, Ella…”

“You too.” She watched him leave and tears poured out the moment the door closed. What’s wrong with you, Ella? She wiped her tears away. You were the one that broke up with him; you don’t have a right to cry. At that thought, her tears got worse, completely overwhelming her. 

Why am I always like this? Why do I drag things on for so long? Why do I always run away? She couldn’t wipe her tears away fast enough. We didn’t even talk about the job. At least it could’ve been an excuse that pushed us apart…

The door to her dorm room opened. “Ella, are you okay?” Alice asked as soon as she entered. She had been waiting outside the hotel, keeping an eye out for Nathan leaving. “Oh, no.” She rushed up to Ella and pulled her into a hug. “Did you two…?”

Ella nodded.

“I thought you were expecting this…” Alice trailed off, realizing how much pain she was in, regardless. “It’s okay, Ella; you can let it all out. I’m here for you.”

Ella clung to her, and her crying turned into full-out blubbering.

Alice stroked her head and whispered repeatedly that it was okay.

---

Continued in chapter 3.

One Life Stand – Chapter 1

Ella sat in a booth at her regular bar with her girl friends, having a drink after a long day of work as concierges at Breakwater Hotel. Ella took a swig of her beer and sighed. “The best part of any workday is when we come here.”

“Shouldn’t the best part of your day be when you go home to that sweet, sexy boyfriend of yours?” Alice nudged her. “Oh wait, it’s been years, and you still don’t want to move out of the employee dorms to live with him.”

“It’s easier for me to live in the dorms! You live there too, so what are you complaining about?”

“The staff housing is fine for me, but you have an alternative! It’s too expensive for me to live near the hotel on my own, so I have no reason to move out.” Alice groaned, wishing she had more money.

“I love going home to my hubby; too bad he’s out of the city so much because he’s travelling.” Charlie puffed her cheeks out as she circled the top of her glass with her finger.

“That’s what you get when you marry a pilot.” Kyra gave Charlie a shoulder hug. “If you wanted someone who comes home like clockwork, you should’ve married an accountant like me.”

“But… how exciting is it to be a pilot?!”

“If that’s your response, then don’t complain.” The girls all laughed.

“Seriously though, Ella.” Alice nudged her. “Has Nathan even talked about marriage with you?” All the girls leaned in, eager to hear her answer.

He’s tried to. Ella thought. “Well, yes, but it feels too early for that, so he agreed to wait…” At least I think he understood…

“Too early? You guys have been together for how many years? You’re doing it again, aren’t you?”

“Doing what?”

They all exchanged tired glances. “Like what happened with Bruce or Justin,” Alice said.

“Or the first one…” Charlie muttered.

“All of them were long-term relationships, and they all proposed to you, but you never said yes. You always said you weren’t ready yet.”

Ella frowned and took another drink. “I actually did say yes more than once; I just never made it down the aisle. Besides, it never felt right!”

“What didn’t? I mean, each time, I thought you were in love.”

“I was, but when it came down to it…” Ella shuddered. “I felt like running.”

“And that’s what you keep doing. Do yourself a favour: if Nathan does one day ask, don’t run away instantly.” Alice poked her in the shoulder.

Ella rolled her eyes. “I doubt he’s going to ask anytime soon.”

“Then I guess you have time to prepare yourself.”

“Prepare myself? How?”

“Prepare yourself mentally to actually say yes!” the girls squealed. “You would say yes, right?” Alice asked.

“Uh…” Would I? She thought about Nathan and all the good times they had together, while both going out on dates and hanging out at home. She imagined him kneeling down and offering her a ring. Her stomach churned. I…

“Ella?” Alice poked her cheek.

“Hmm? What?”

“You went completely silent there and didn’t answer my question.”

“Oh, sorry. What was the question again?”

“I know you heard me.” She pouted. “Fine, I’ll ask again. Would you say yes if Nathan asked for your hand in marriage?”  

“I… Uh…” I know the answer they want, but my mouth refuses to say it!

Her friends sighed. “It’s happening again!”

“N-no… I just don’t know until the moment it happens.” Ella’s cheek twitched.

“She’s not exactly wrong…” Kyra commented. “I mean, even if you think it’s what you want, the moment it happens, things can change.”

Charlie looked at Kyra. “That’s not your way of saying you’re having second thoughts about your hubby, is it?”

“What?! No way; I love my husband!”

“Sure…”

“Ella, if you don’t want to marry him, and it’s been a few years, maybe you should stop wasting both your time and his, and break up with him,” Alice suggested.

Ella sighed and took another drink. “I don’t want to…”

“Okay, I think we should head out while we’re still able to walk,” Kyra said, standing up. “I’ll settle our tab this time.”

“Thanks, Kyra, we love you!” Charlie called out.

The next day, Ella went to work with a massive headache.

“I didn’t think you drank that much,” Alice whispered to her while they were being given their specific duties for the day.

“Neither did I, but it sure feels like someone shoved an ice pick in my head.”

Their boss handed them their papers with instructions for the day. “I also have something to talk to you two about. Please come to my office at the end of the workday.” She pointed at Alice and Ella.

“Yes, ma’am,” they both said.

Once they were dismissed, and the other employees left, they turned to each other. “What do you think this is about?” Ella asked. “I don’t remember doing anything bad, did you?”

“Nope; my work has been perfect as always. Maybe it’s not for something bad, but for a raise or promotion.” She rubbed her hands together.

“Why both of us, then?”

“I don’t know,” Alice sighed. “We’ll have to wait until later to find out. Let’s get to work.” Alice smacked her lightly with the papers.

“Okay…”

Ella managed to make it to the end of the day without any incidents and without her headache getting any worse. “I don’t want to go in…” she mumbled to Alice as they stood in front of their boss’ door.

“Oh, come on, don’t be a wimp.” Alice knocked on the door.

“Come in,” their boss answered.

Alice opened the door and urged Ella in with her, closing the door behind them. “You wanted to see us?” Alice asked as she glanced around the office. They’d been in there a few times, but never for long, and it never changed. The same pictures and diplomas on the walls, the same full bookshelves, and every inch of the office in its place.

“Yes, our head office is opening a new hotel not too far from here.” She rearranged the papers on her desk. “A hotel resort, actually.”

“Why would they compete with themselves?”

She glanced at Alice. “Because we are filled to capacity so often and don’t have room to expand. And it won’t quite be under the same name.”

“Oh, okay.”

“Anyway, several of our hotels were asked to transfer a couple of staff members to work at the new hotel as a promotion of sorts to you. Both the pay and benefits will be better. Are you two interested?”

“Are you kidding? Of course, we’re interested!”

“Before that, how far is not too far?” Ella asked, thinking about how they’d have to move.

“You don’t have to worry; there are dorms there for you two to live in like you currently do.” She pulled out a map with the spot circled. “It’ll be here. This will be your new pay and additional benefits.” She pulled out another paper.

The other side of the city. That’s not too bad, but it puts some distance between Nathan and me.

“I’ll give you two some time to think it over.”

“I don’t need any time. I’m up for the promotion,” Alice said, her eyes bulging out as she read the new pay.

“I need time to think about it.” Ella gave her a small bow.

“Think about it first, Alice.” She pointed at the door. “That was all.”

“Yes, ma’am.” They both left and walked together to their shared dorm room.

“Can you believe this?!” Alice cheered and hugged her. “And my parents said I’d never get a promotion here.”

“I need to talk to Nathan.” She sat on their couch and pulled out her phone to find she had a text.

‘Are you ready for tonight?’

Tonight? “Alice, did I have plans tonight?”

“Hmm?” Alice flopped down on the couch beside her. She glanced back at the calendar on the fridge. “Oh, it’s date night for you two, isn’t it?”

“Already?” Felt like we just went out.

“What’s with that response? Shouldn’t you be happy about going out?”

“I’d rather stay in…”

“Then have date night at home – at his home – and give him your good news.”

“Why do you sound so sure I’m going to say yes to the job? It’ll take me farther from Nathan than I already am, and I can’t see him being happy about that.”

“It’s not that much farther.”

“In wintertime it is.”

“Touché. So, do you really think he’ll want you to turn it down because it’s farther away?”

Ella shrugged. “Between work and distance, there isn’t that much time for the relationship.”

“And yet it’s lasted years.”

“Because we’ve made it work, but this doesn’t work in my favour.”

“But it’s more money!” Alice rubbed her thumbs against her fingers.

“This is one of the reasons you can’t keep a guy; you value money over people.”

“Not all people.” She nudged Ella. “And you know I don’t like to keep them for too long, anyway.”

“Oh yeah, did you tell Charlie or Kyra about it yet? If we take the jobs, we won’t be working with them anymore, and it’ll be harder to meet up after work for a drink or two.”

“You’re right…” Alice frowned. “Can you break the news to them?”

“I haven’t decided yet, remember? I need to talk to Nathan first. You should talk to them since you’ve already decided to take the new job and abandon them.”

“Ugh… You make it sound so bad…”

“You know that’s how Charlie will see it.”

“I know, I know, but can’t you tell them I got a new job?”

Ella stared at her blankly. “I have enough to deal with on my own. This one’s on you. Now man up or woman up, whatever. I have to get changed; Nathan is on his way.” She waved her phone around.

“Fine… Have fun.” Alice stared at her friends’ numbers on her phone. “Maybe a text is enough…”

A man in a suit with brown hair was waiting outside the entrance to the staff housing. “Nathan!” Ella called out to him, smiling.

“Aren’t you looking gorgeous tonight?” They hugged, and he kept a hold of her waist as he stared into her eyes, unable to stop a small smile from forming.

“Why… are you looking at me like that? Didn’t you say you made reservations or something?”

“Yeah, let’s go.” Arm-in-arm, they headed to his vehicle.

“I’ve always wanted to eat here, but isn’t it a bit expensive?” Ella asked as Nathan escorted her through the front door.

“It’ll be worth it for tonight,” he assured her.

“Where… are all the other customers?” Ella looked around the restaurant. Soft, live music was playing on the stage in the back, but all the tables were empty.

“Here.” The waiter led them to a table and handed them menus once they were seated.

What’s going on? This place is popular, so if it’s empty, then… “Did you rent out the entire place for tonight?” Ella asked, her stomach doing flips.

“Because tonight’s a special night, and I know you don’t like an audience, but you’ve also been dying to go here.”

“A special night? Oh, did someone else tell you about my promotion?” Ella asked in a rush.

“Promotion? No, no one told me about that… I actually meant—”

“They want me to move to a different hotel that’s just starting out. There’s better pay and everything. I haven’t agreed yet since I wanted to talk to you, but it is tempting.”

“I see… I suppose that might complicate things a bit, but I’m still certain I want to do this.” Nathan pulled a red velvet box out of his jacket pocket and knelt down in front of her.

Ella’s eyes widened, and she shook her head.

“Ella Luise, will you marry me?”

Her heart rate increased, and the lump in her throat stopped her from speaking.

He waited for a moment before calling out to her. “Ella?”

“I…” her voice squeaked out. Nearly hyperventilating, she stood and knocked over her chair. “I… can’t.” She took off running out of the restaurant.

“Ella?” Nathan stared at her fallen chair in a daze.

“What are you waiting for, man? Go after her,” the waiter urged him.

“Right…” He rushed out of the restaurant and looked all around, but she was nowhere in sight. He checked his car and through the entire parking lot, to no avail. “Ella…” He thumped his fist on the roof of his car a few times and bit his lip as he fought back the tears.

---

Continued in chapter 2.

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