One Life Stand – Chapter 25

Ella finished making a chicken burger and fries for each of them and sat down to wait. She looked at the time on her phone, checking to make sure he didn’t send a text about lunch.

“What’s taking so long?” she mumbled, her stomach gnawing at her. Tired of waiting, she picked up one of the fries with ketchup and nibbled on it.

Despite eating as slowly as she could manage, she finished her fries, and Leon still hadn’t shown up.

“What’s going on? He said he was going to be home for lunch, right?” Ella stared at her phone, debating on contacting him since he was already more than an hour late. “I should be working right now… but I can’t help but worry.” She dialled his number, but only got a busy signal.

Should I finish my meal and get back to work? But what if something happened, and they call the suite instead of me? Arg! She texted him, just in case.

She paced around the kitchen as she waited, checking her phone every few minutes.

The door burst open, and Leon came through, huffing. “I’m so… sorry… I’m late… Meeting… went long… because they were late…” He leaned over, resting his hands on his knees as he panted.

“You’re okay…” she sighed, nearly dropping her phone.

“You were worried?”

“Don’t you know how to pick up the bloody phone?!” she snapped at him.

He flinched back and then held his hands up. “I’m sorry. I tried to call earlier, but I got a busy signal.”

“That’s what texts are for…”

“You’re right; I should’ve sent a text.”

“Should’ve answered my text.”

“You texted me?” He looked at his phone and paled. “I had the sound off, so I didn’t hear it. I’m so sorry, Ella.” He stumbled over and pulled her in for a tight hug. “I’ll try to be more careful from now on.” He couldn’t help but smile, since she had actually worried about him, but he hid his expression by keeping her in the hug.

“As long as you’ve learned your lesson…” She hugged him back. I can’t believe I worried that much. I can only imagine how much Nathan worried when I ran out… Who knows how badly he thinks of me after what I’ve done to him?

“Ella?” Leon held onto her shoulders as he looked into her eyes. “Are you okay?”

“Yup… Just glad you’re okay. Um, I should get to work—”

“Sit and finish your lunch, please. Don’t make me eat alone; defeats the purpose of coming home for lunch.”

“You come home so you could eat with me?”

“Of course! Why else would I come home to eat? I know the food here is great, but it’s not going to make me rush home from the other side of the city…” he trailed off, realizing he admitted more than he wanted to.

Her eyes widened. “Why would you do that? Downtown is so busy at lunch; I can only imagine how long it would take to rush back here…”

Leon tried to hide his smile, biting his cheek. “I always wanted to come home for lunch and have someone waiting there for me. Not that I want you to wait, but that you’re here for me; someone to go home to.”

From how his parents are, I’m going to guess he never had that as a kid.

Ella nodded. “I think I get what you mean. Seriously though, call or text if you’re going to be late… and do it before you leave the building. I don’t want you getting into a car accident because you were doing something stupid, like talking on the phone or texting while you’re driving.”

“Zeke was driving me around, but I understand your point.”

If Zeke was driving him around, didn’t he have time to call?

“Um… Did I say something wrong? I feel like I did…”

“Nope, it’s nothing…”

Leon put his hands on her shoulders again. “If I messed up, then I messed up, but I may not always know what I did, so please tell me. Talk to me, Ella.”

Ugh… fine! “If Zeke was driving you around, shouldn’t you have had time to contact me?”

“After I called and got a busy signal, I ended up on another business call, which ate up most of my time. I should’ve gotten back to you afterwards, so I’m sorry.”

“You’re so busy…” She sighed. “Doesn’t that burn you out?”

“Yes, and it used to get me so tired I’d waste my weekends away sleeping, but things are different now. Seeing you, and knowing you’re here for me, recharges me.” He smiled at her.

“Dripping sweetness…” she mumbled.

“Do you forgive me?”

“You make it hard not to.”

“Thank you.” He gave her a quick peck on the lips and sat down to eat. “Looks delicious.” He dug in right away. “Mmm… Yup, tastes as good as it looks. Aren’t you going to eat?” He nudged his head towards her chicken burger, still sitting on her plate.

She sat down with a huff and started to eat.

“So, how was work this morning?” Leon asked her.

“Shouldn’t I ask you that?”

“Mine was chaotic, and yours?” He kept fishing for the details he wanted.

Ella rolled her eyes. “Yes, I called my mom. She agreed to come here, though I must warn you, she’s not too enthusiastic about me being engaged again because of my past.”

“It’s good she agreed. Can she come this weekend?”

“Yes.”

“Do you want to pick her up, or would you like me to send a car?”

“I… She can take a taxi, or rather a bus.”

“We’ll send a car to pick her up.” Leon finished eating. “Less stress that way.”

“I’ll set it up…”

“Is something wrong?”

“Nope.” Ella wiped the corners of her mouth to make sure her face was clean and picked up her empty plate.

“What is it?” He followed her over with his own empty plate.

“She doesn’t like taxis and whatnot because she sees it as a waste of money. I mean, it’s not like we didn’t have any money, but she’s a single mother, which can be quite hard, so she always tried to keep her expenses low.” Ella washed their dishes as Leon leaned against the counter.

“I see… But we’re sending the driver; she’s not spending anything. By the way, if she needs money or anything, we can help her with it. Heck, we can buy her a new place wherever she wants.”

“We?”

Leon shrugged. “We’re going to be married; my money is your money, remember?”

I guess that means I’ll be rich… I should be excited about that, but I never even think about it.

“I doubt she’d accept anything extravagant from us.” Ella sighed, thinking about how many times her mother turned down help from her over the years.

“Don’t worry; I know how to get her to accept it. You make sure she has no other choice. We’ll have to get a place in her name though…”

“I don’t think she’d want to move from her current house; a lot of memories there.”

“But wouldn’t she want to move closer to you if she could?”

“I guess…”

Leon looked at the time. “I wish I could stay longer, but I have to go if I want to get to my next meeting in time.”

“Oh, okay.”

“I’ll send you the list of services I regularly use, so you can set up the normal driver. I’ll see you later.”

Ella turned off the water, finishing with the dishes, and turned. “Okay—”

Leon cut her off with another quick peck on the lips. “Have a good afternoon,” he said, smiling as he took off.

I have a feeling he’s always going to catch me off guard…

---

Continued in chapter 26.

One Life Stand – Chapter 22

Ella rushed to unbuckle her seatbelt and nearly rolled out of the car, hurling.

“We haven’t even started drinking yet,” Charlie complained as she rubbed Ella’s back.

Kinda glad I didn’t eat much today… Ella wiped her mouth with a tissue. “Isn’t this your house?” Ella looked over at the two-storey, double-garage house with a garden near the front door. She had come over a few times, but Charlie always wanted to go somewhere that wasn’t her place, so they rarely went there. “Why are we here?”

“So we can drink and not worry. Besides, I also have a freezer full of ice cream.”

“Look, I’m not really in the mood—”

“Don’t give me any of that.” Charlie pushed Ella towards her house. “We want to know what happened, and we’ll do whatever we must to get you talking, even if that means getting you piss drunk.”

“Oh my gosh, I’ve already told myself I wouldn’t be doing that anymore. I’m too old for it, anyway.”

“But you’re more open when you’re drunk.”

“But if we’re all drinking, then you guys probably won’t remember what I say.”

“Kyra is going to be here, and you know even if she drinks too much – which she never does – she still wouldn’t be drunk. That mama is immune, I say!”

“She can hold her liquor, can’t she?”

“Indeed.” Charlie dragged Ella into the living room, where Alice and Kyra were already waiting.

“Aren’t you busy making supper at this time normally?” Ella asked Kyra.

“My eldest has agreed to make supper for me and told me to enjoy my night,” Kyra explained. “I am a bit worried, but they are the most responsible of them, and my husband will be home soon enough, anyway. Now, how about you sit down and we get to drinking?” Kyra patted the seat on the couch between her and Alice.

“I don’t think this is a good idea.” Ella tried to back away, but Charlie gave her a push forward, and Kyra caught her, sitting her down with her hand on her shoulder. “I’m not in the mood to drink…”

Charlie vanished into the next room for a moment and came back, rolling in a cart full of bottles. “Time for our own mixtures,” she cheered and pulled out a mixer. “So, what should we start with?”

Ella sighed, leaning back on the couch as she stayed silent.

“How about we make it fun?” Alice pulled out a pair of dice. “Going across for the numbers, we’ll just roll to see what to mix.”

“I imagine getting some wonky mixes… Let’s do it!”

Kyra gave Ella’s shoulder a squeeze. “Sometimes it’s good to have some silly fun like this with your friends.”

“Isn’t that what got me into the mess with Leon?” Ella wiggled her left ring finger around.

“Don’t you like him now, though?”

“What?” Ella frowned.

“Between what I’ve seen and what I’ve heard from the others, you are way more comfortable around him than your past boyfriends.”

“Am I?”

“I mean, I admit I thought Nathan would work out… but you two seemed a bit off. You seemed better with Leon until Alice ran her mouth… then things changed again, so—”

“Your turn!” Alice handed Ella the dice, making a face as she drank her drink.

Ella stared at the dice as her friends chanted ‘throw’ all around her. “I’m not doing this.” She went to put the dice down, and Alice knocked her hand.

“Oops, looks like you get one and six.”

“Isn’t that a seven?”

“Not when we’re lucky to even get one throw of the dice from you.”

“I didn’t actually—”

“Too bad!” Charlie set the drink down. “Drink up, missy.”

“You know they’re not going to back down,” Kyra whispered to her. “At least indulge them a little; they’re worried… and so am I.”

Ella chugged down her drink. “Ah…” It had an unusual mix of flavours and burned going down.

“Uh… you didn’t look at what it was, did you? That was a strong one.” Charlie cringed.

“Ugh… what was in that?”

“Next!” Alice handed the dice to Kyra to continue it. She ended up rolling the same number twice, and they fought over having two shots of the same thing or three different things in one, by splitting the number.

How can I feel buzzed off one drink? What the hell did she give me? Ella leaned her head on Kyra’s shoulder, and Kyra stroked her head.

“There, there, girl. We’re all here for you. Now, can you tell us what happened?” Kyra asked.

“Alice was right…”

Kyra and Charlie both looked at Alice, who was frowning, trying to remember what she’d said.

“I ruined Bruce’s life. I hurt him so much… I wasted his time… If it wasn’t for me, he could’ve been married with kids and had an easier ride getting promotions.”

“Sounds like that jerk is blaming you for his misgivings.” Charlie slammed a bottle down after chugging a chunk of it. “What an ass!”

“Watch your mouth,” Kyra warned her, too used to saying it to her husband around the kids or her eldest kid.

“Sorry, ma’am.” Charlie made a zipping motion across her lips. “I’ll try to contain myself while you’re here.”

“Thank you.”

Guess I really can’t handle much alcohol, anymore…

“Alice and Bruce are both right… What kind of scum dates people for years and throws them away as soon as marriage comes into the picture? A severely damaged person, that’s who.” Ella sighed.

“The first one wasn’t your fault; he was a cheater,” Kyra said. Among other things.

“But what about Justin? What about Bruce? What about Nathan? I’ve run away every time, and they’re good men…”

“At least you didn’t agree to marry Nathan and then run away,” Alice said. “Ow!” she yelped as Charlie punched her in the arm.

“You’re not helping.” Charlie slung back another drink.

“What?” Alice pouted. “I was trying to help.”

“The lot of you are drunk already, aren’t you?” Kyra sighed. “Such lightweights. Look, Ella.” Kyra wrapped her hand around Ella’s. “We can all admit you’ve had issues in the past, but there’s no saying what would’ve happened if you stuck with any of them, and playing the what-if game will only make everything worse. You don’t know what might’ve happened, and there’s no way to know. For all you know, you could’ve been miserable. Could you have gone about it a different way, yes? But you didn’t, so how about thinking about the future instead of the past, or rather the present? Think about Leon. He’s your future—”

“What if I mess him up, too? He’s so young and innocent… I could destroy him…”

“If you don’t want to destroy him, then stop running away!” Kyra snapped at her. “He’s stronger than you think, and you’ll never truly be able to outrun your problems!”

Ella flinched back, her eyes wide as she stared at Kyra.

“Give him a chance. I think he deserves that much.”

“And if I don’t actually love him?”

Kyra exchanged a look with her drunken friends. “Why are you deciding that before you give him a chance? But I’m also certain he’ll chase you even if you run away. And I don’t mean in the crazy Sebastian way, but in a way that you’ll know he’s waiting for you with open arms.”

“How are you so sure about him?” Ella’s words slurred. “I’m not sure… even after him telling me we met when we were younger.”

They all froze and turned to her. “What?” they asked in unison.

Ella gave them a brief summary of what happened when she was fifteen.

Alice squealed. “Oh my gosh, this just got way sweeter!”

“For once, I agree with her.” Charlie chugged on another bottle of unknown alcohol. “How can you not fall for that story? And why haven’t we heard about this incident before?”

“It didn’t come to mind…” Ella shrugged. It hasn’t been long since I found out.

“Ugh! I feel so bad for him now! He’s been pining after you since he was an elementary school kid, and you haven’t thought of him at all.”

“I probably did when I was fifteen… because I was worried about him, but life moves on.”

“But this is totally fated!” Alice cheered. “You saved him. Now it’s his turn to save you!” She threw her hands into the air and fell back on the couch, unconscious.

“And she’s out!” Charlie laughed. “And girl, your life is complicated, but I don’t think it needs to be. How about you learn to relax and go with the flow? This Leon fellow seems like a keeper.” She chugged on another bottle and sighed, closing her eyes.

“And they’re both out.” Kyra looked at Ella. “It’s hard having such an active, anxious mind, isn’t it?”

Ella nodded.

“You understand that Bruce shouldn’t have taken his pain and anger out on you, right?”

“I deserved it…”

“Ella…” Kyra combed her fingers through Ella’s hair. “You hurt him, yes, but that doesn’t mean you’re to blame for everything that’s happened to him since then. He stayed stuck in the past. You haven’t even talked to him in years, so it’s not like he’s being reminded all the time. It says more about him than you that he’s like that.”

“You don’t get it? I did break him!”

“You obviously didn’t want to live your life with him, so you had to end it eventually.”

Ella went silent.

“Same with the others. I think you need to be a bit kinder to yourself and realize the real reasons you didn’t want to marry the other ones. Was it really because of your father? Because of Sebastian? I think there’s a reason for each one, and I think it wouldn’t have worked out, anyway.”

“How do I get this out of my head? How do I stop running away? How do I stop hurting people? I don’t want to hurt Leon.” Ella teared up.

“The only way to stop running is to summon your courage to face the situation head-on.”

“How…?”

“Confront your past issues.”

“Are you telling me to confront all of them?” That’s terrifying.

“I’m not sure I want you anywhere near Sebastian, so maybe a letter to him and then burn it. For the second one…”

“Well, Justin actually has a wife and kids now, and even happily asked to meet for coffee…”

“Not sure you have to worry about him, then; he moved on and seems fine. Bruce made you cry and left you like this, so I’m not sure he deserves an apology or anything.”

“I did apologize already…”

“Then that leaves Nathan.”

“Nathan… I ended up talking to him, but it didn’t feel like anything got resolved.” He’s still such a sweetie, and I think I hurt him the most. But if our talk last time didn’t leave it feeling resolved, what will? Maybe I just need to know he’s doing okay now.

“He’s probably the only one you have to deal with before you can truly move on with Leon.” Technically, Sebastian was the bigger issue.

“How do I not mess up with Leon?”

Kyra shrugged. “Trust him. Talk to him. Be open. It’s all I can suggest, really.”

“Kyra, you’re always so amazing.” Ella hugged her tightly. Hopefully, I can manage to follow your advice.

Ella’s phone rang, and she sat there staring at Leon’s name as it continued to ring.

“You’re not going to answer?” Kyra asked.

“I’ve… kinda been avoiding him.”

“And we just agreed you’d try to talk to him openly, right?”

“But… I’m drunk right now.”

“That should make it easier.”

“‘Should’ being the keyword here.”

“Have some courage.” Kyra snatched her phone and answered it.

“Ella? Thank goodness you’ve finally answered. I know the girls were going to talk to you or something today, but I haven’t heard from you, and you’re not back… and it’s pretty late,” Leon rambled on.

“Aren’t you just sweet?” Kyra said.

“Um… Is Ella there?”

“She’s right here…” Kyra looked at Ella, who was waving her hands frantically, not wanting to answer her phone. “Unfortunately, she drank too much and fell asleep. All of them did.” Kyra sighed. “Lightweights, the lot of them.”

Leon chuckled. “Okay, as long as everything’s alright.”

“Maybe you should come and pick her up. I’m sure she’d be more comfortable in her own bed than on the couch.”

“Ah, okay…”

“I’ll text you the address.”

“Thank you. I’ll be there soon.” They both hung up.

Ella stared at her with her mouth agape. “How… how could you?”

Kyra smiled at her. “This is what you get for not answering your phone. Now, let’s grab blankets for these two.”

---

Continued in chapter 23.

One Life Stand – Chapter 19

Fifteen-year-old Ella was spending time on the beach nearby during summer vacation. She had gone there with a couple of her friends and one of their parents. Her mom practically had to force her to go, telling her not to worry about anything. Wanting to spend some time alone, she walked off to a secluded part of the beach. She climbed up the rocks to the top of the hill, hoping for a better view.

There, she spotted him. A young boy stood at the edge of the cliff, staring out at the ocean as the wind blew his hair back. Ella couldn’t help but notice his feet were slightly off the edge.

That’s dangerous… She looked around, but there was no one else in sight. Isn’t he a little young to be on his own here? “Hey… Kid! Don’t get so close to the edge; it’s dangerous!” Ella called out to him, worried he’d either fall or jump in. Crap, I probably shouldn’t have yelled.

He tilted his head as he glanced back at her. She halted at his saddened expression, heart-wrenching at merely the sight of him.

What do I do? I can’t leave him here alone.

When she didn’t say anything more, he went back to looking off into the distance, as far as he could see the water.

Ella inched closer to him, ready to lunge should he choose to jump off. “What’s your name?” she asked softly, afraid she’d startle him.

“Hmm?” He glanced at her again.

“I’m Ella.” She stood beside him and looked down. Too far down… With shaking hands, she sat down and took a deep breath. “What’s your name?” she asked again.

“Why do you want to know? Are you just out for money and things, too?” he grumbled and eyed her suspiciously.

“No… Why in the world would someone talk to a kid for money?” Ella frowned. “I saw a familiar look of loneliness on you… and I got worried.”

A light seemed to flicker in his eyes. “You were worried about me?”

“Yes. Can you sit down? It’s making me nervous, you standing on the edge like that.”

He thought for a moment and nodded before sitting down beside her.

“Can you tell me why you’re here on your own? Where are your parents?” He’s so young… maybe around eight or nine.

“Ha… My parents? They’re around somewhere enjoying themselves…”

“Do they know you’re here on your own?”

“As long as I study and get things done, they don’t care. No one cares…” He sighed and hung his head. “Not even the one tasked with taking care of me.”

Rich boy with a nanny or something? “I know some people aren’t good at showing they care, but your parents probably care about you a lot.”

“No, they don’t! Tch, you’re just like the rest of them, aren’t you? You think I should quit whining and be quiet? I’m just delusional! I should shut up because I have it better than other people—” Leon went silent when she hugged him.

“I’m sorry. I spoke without knowing enough about the situation. And I should look at things from your point of view, which is obviously one of neglect.”

His eyes widened slightly as he looked at her, and he awkwardly wrapped his arms around her in return. He couldn’t remember the last time someone gave him a real hug. Tears formed in his eyes as he gripped her shirt and rubbed his face into her shoulder.

“It’s never okay to neglect your child. My mom’s a single mother, and she makes sure to hug me every day.”

“What… what about your dad?”

She stiffened up. “He’s… out of the picture, so I can’t really tell you anything about him.”

“Oh… Sorry…” He swallowed hard, worried she’d back away because he asked the wrong question.

“Don’t worry about that; it’s in the past.” Probably before this kid was even born.

When Leon finally let go, she backed away, and he rubbed the tears from his eyes. “Thank you…”

“Can we move away from this ledge?”

“I like it here.”

“Um… What exactly were you planning to do? Or were you just watching the water alone?”

“I…” he trailed off and looked away, gripping his hands tightly in his lap.

“It’s okay to tell me, you know? I won’t get angry… well, okay, I might get a little angry, but I won’t tell anyone.”

“You’ll keep it a secret?”

Ella nodded.

“I… I thought about jumping… but then I got scared of drowning. I know how to swim, but it’s really far down. I know it wouldn’t end well for me.”

Jumping in? Ella shuddered. Someone so young, and he wants to end it? She felt tears in her eyes and looked up at the sky, hoping he wouldn’t see them. “Are you…” She swallowed hard. “So upset and depressed that you’re thinking about killing yourself?”

His shoulders curled in a bit. “Yes…”

“Please don’t.”

“Why not? It’s not like anyone cares. I’m just around to take over when my dad’s old and doesn’t want to work anymore. They don’t actually want me…”

“Why do you think that?”

“Think? I know it! I heard them talking before! I know they only had me to have a successor.”

“Makes me think of kings in olden times and whatnot… They always had to make sure they had a son to pass their crown to. To them, you’re kinda like their little prince, then.”

“If I’m so precious, why don’t they treat me that way?”

“Do they… hit you or something?”

“No; they just ignore me. They can’t be bothered to deal with me at all. Even dinners together are forced, and they’ll talk to each other, but not to me. I’m…” His lip quivered.

“Lonely?”

“Yeah.”

“Loneliness can be overwhelming. I know we may not see each other after today, because I don’t know where you’re from and whatnot, but how about we be friends?” She held her hand out to him.

He looked at her hand. “You want to be my friend?”

“Yes, and I’m your friend who cares about you.”

He took her hand, shaking it, a slight tint of red on his cheeks. He couldn’t help but notice how much bigger her hands were. She definitely had at least a few years on him, but he knew he’d catch up someday.

“Even if we don’t meet—”

“We will meet again.”

“What? I can’t promise you that…” It would be irresponsible.

“I’m promising you that,” he said with a serious glint in his eyes.

“Oh?”

“I… may not have power now, because I’m just a kid, but when I’m older, I’ll be able to do more; I’ll be able to find you.”

“By then, you’ll probably have forgotten about little old me.” She giggled.

“No, that won’t happen. I’ll never forget you. I’ll make sure I find you and make you my wife.”

She froze. “Did you just say, wife?” This is a kid, right?

“Yes!” He stood, his chest puffed out, and he held his fist over his heart. “I promise we’ll meet again, and when we do, I’ll make you my woman!”

Since when do children talk like this? She stared at him, stunned for a while longer, struggling to figure out what to say. “Um… How about we work on being friends right now? My friends aren’t too far from here, if you want—”

“No; I only want you.” He grabbed her hand. “Even if only for a day right now, I wish to enjoy my time with my future wife.” He kissed the back of her hand.

“You can’t keep calling me that…”

“Why not?”

“People don’t just get married. They date and grow close… and grow to be intimate and whatnot before getting married.”

“A date…?” He thought for a moment, remembering what he read in books and saw on TV. He nodded. “A date it is, then. How about a walk along the beach? There’s an ice cream stand down the way. I’ll buy us some ice cream.”

“Um…” The hopeful sparkle in his eyes crushed her. It can’t hurt, can it? “O-okay… I could go for some ice cream.”

“Let’s go.” He took her hand again.

They strolled on the beach together. He kept stealing glances at her and smiling.

He seems… totally smitten. Too bad he’s way too young for me.

They stood in line together to get ice cream as Beautiful Soul, by Jessie McCartney, played over their speaker. “What flavour do you want?” He pointed to the menu on the side, wanting to decide before they got to the front.

“I like strawberry ice cream the most.”

He nodded. “Good to know,” he mumbled to himself.

At the front, he ordered strawberry ice cream for her and cookies and cream ice cream for himself.

I can’t let a kid pay for me… “Here, I’ll pay this time.” Ella took her wallet out of her pocket.

“No, no.” He pushed her hand with the wallet down. “A man pays on dates.” He handed the money over for the ice cream.

Ha… I guess if I go with whoever invites the other, pays, it won’t bother me… much. “Thank you,” she accepted the ice cream from him.

He automatically took her free hand and started walking along the beach as he ate. “Hmm… How’s your taste?”

“Good, yours?”

“Really good. Want to try it?” He held his cone out to her.

“Um… No, I’m good.”

“Oh… Okay…”

Damn, is he a puppy or something? “Uh, fine… Sure.” It’s so hard to say no to him. He’ll be dangerous when he’s older.

His face lit up, and he held his ice cream up to her face. She took a small bite and nodded. “It is good, thank you.” He glanced at hers and she knew right away what he wanted. “Want to try mine?” She held hers out to him, and he took a big bite.

“Yummy.” He smiled and continued eating his own. “I’ve never had anyone to share food with like this. It’s so cool. It’s hard to choose one flavour sometimes, but if you have someone to trade with, you get to try two!”

“It is nice to share, especially desserts,” Ella agreed.

After finishing their ice cream, they spent a while building sandcastles, skipping rocks, and talking about their lives. They sat down outside a little cafe on the edge of the beach drinking fruit smoothies.

Such a heavy life for small shoulders…

“You know, I don’t think I’ve ever had so much fun.” Leon happily drank his pineapple mango smoothie.

“Never?”

“Nope.” He smiled at her. “I’m definitely in love with you, and I’ll marry you someday.”

Ha… my first proposal, and it’s from a young boy…

“How about we stick to friends for now?” Ella asked.

Leon frowned a bit, but nodded. “I know… Friends now, more than friends later.” He winked at her.

“Ha…” He’ll definitely turn into a lady-killer.

“Master Leon, where have you been?” An older man dressed in a butler suit approached them, his brows furrowed and veins bulging.

“Tch… What do you care?” Leon glared at him. “The day’s not over yet; don’t ruin my date.”

“Date?” He turned to her. “Aren’t you a little old to be dating an eight-year-old? Are you a gold digger? They start young these days, it seems,” he scoffed.

“That’s not…”

“You’d do well to stay away from the young master. You won’t be getting any money from him.”

“I’m not after his money…” Ella tried to fight off the tears forming. “We’re friends…”

“Friends? I’ve been with this boy every day, and we’ve never met you. Besides, how old are you?”

“People can only be friends with other people the same age?”

The man grabbed Leon’s arm. “We’re leaving this instant!”

“No, let go of me!” Leon pulled back, but was too weak to fight against him.

“What are you doing? He doesn’t want to go with you.” Ella blocked his way, trembling under his gaze.

“It doesn’t matter what he wants. His parents ordered me to return him to the hotel hours ago, and I’m in trouble because this brat chose to run away. Now, get out of my way.” When Ella didn’t move, he shoved her out of the way.

“Ah,” she yelped as she hit the ground hard.

“Ella!” Leon called out to her, still trying to free himself. “How dare you hurt her?! Let me go, Richard! I need to check on her.”

“No, you’re coming back with me.” He tugged hard on Leon’s arm, yanking him forward and nearly pulling his arm out of its socket.

“Ah!”

“Leon.” Ella struggled to get to her feet, her elbows bleeding from hitting the paved patio area. She watched Richard take Leon away as he reached out to her. She stood there in a daze, tears in her eyes. He’s too strong; I can’t do anything for him… “Leon…”

---

Continued in chapter 20.

One Life Stand – Chapter 17

“You can come here without making a reservation?” Ella asked Leon, as they entered a fancy restaurant. The attendant at the front instantly recognized him and greeted him.

“I’m a semi-regular here, so yes, and it’s not that upscale. It’s even considered a family restaurant.” He nudged his head towards a young family of four eating together. “So long as they’re well-behaved, anyway. I’ve seen them throw a family out before because of an unruly kid.”

“I can’t blame them.”

They both sat down and made their orders. Ella kept looking around, fascinated with all the artwork on the walls.

“Which one is your favourite?” Leon asked.

“The painting of the young woman with roses.”

Leon smiled widely.

“What is it?”

“That’s my favourite too in this place. Do you want it?”

“I don’t think you’re supposed to go around buying the decor.” I know he’s filthy rich, but that still feels like an odd thing to do.

“The original, I mean. I always make two copies of my paintings and keep one for myself.”

“Wait… What?” Ella’s eyes widened. “Are you the one who painted it?”

“Yes.” He held his chin up proudly. “Though I don’t have time for it these days, I did quite a bit of painting while I was in college.”

“Who’s the lady in the painting? She looks familiar.” She tilted her head as she examined it further.

“Uh… Just a muse; a young lady I met when I was little, actually.”

“You know, if it’s someone you dated, you can tell me, right? I mean, you’ve already met one of my exes…”

“I never had the chance to be with her back then. We had only met for a day, and then she vanished…”

“Sounds like the starting of a romance novel.”

Leon nodded. “I suppose it does…”

Their food arrived, and Ella dug in right away. “Gosh, this is good. I’m not even sure what all of this is.” She poked at the sauce on her chicken. “But it tastes so good I don’t care.”

He couldn’t help but smile as he watched her eat. It made him glad he brought her there, to his special restaurant, filled with his paintings. Other than Zeke, he never told anyone else about his paintings. His father didn’t approve of him becoming a painter, so he wanted to at least keep it as a hobby. That didn’t work out either, as his father found out that he was painting and threatened to burn what he had already created if he kept painting.

“Ella, is that you?”

She recognized the deep, male voice right away. With a glance at Leon first, she turned to look at him. The same dirty blonde hair and striking blue eyes she remembered. “Justin?”

“Oh my gosh.” He approached her, smiling, and put his arms out for a hug. “It’s been such a long time.” He hugged her without a second thought, and she patted his back awkwardly. “I can’t believe I ran into you. You look gorgeous.”

“Thanks…”

“Ahem,” Leon cleared his throat.

“Oh, sorry, are you here on a date?” 

“Yes, we are,” Leon said.

Justin looked at him. “I’m so sorry. I just haven’t seen Ella since…” he trailed off, not sure he should mention it.

“Let me guess, she left you sometime after getting engaged or rejecting the proposal?”

His eyes widened. “Has she mentioned me?”

“Not specifically, but I know a bit about her past.”

“I see.” He nodded. “Well, I just moved into the area, and if you give me your number, maybe we can catch up over coffee sometime.” Justin rustled around in his coat pocket and pulled out his phone. He held it out to her, his eyes practically sparkling.

Crap… Ella glanced over at Leon, who shrugged, telling her to do whatever she wanted. Bah, it’s too awkward to say no! “Okay, sure.” She put her number in his phone.

Leon huffed a bit but held back from saying anything.

“It’s really been so great to see you again.” Justin sighed and held his hand over his heart. “I’m happy to see you’re doing well.”

“Same…”

“I’ll call you soon, but for now, I should get back to my family.”

“Your family?”

Justin pointed at a table a little further in. “I was here with my wife and kids. I had gone to the bathroom and spotted you on the way back. Anyway, enjoy your meal.” He gave her a little wave and rushed off to be with his two daughters and his wife.

He’s married? With kids? I probably shouldn’t be surprised, but I am… Ella watched him walk back to his table with his family waiting. This feels surreal.

“You okay?” Leon asked, his eyes not leaving her.

“Y-yeah; I’m fine.”

He finally looked over at Justin. “You know, I was jealous when you chose to give him your number, but – and I’m surprised to say this myself – but I don’t think he actually had any ill intent.”

“I know a lot of guys think guys and girls can’t be friends, but they can be.”

“Even if you used to date? Worse, you were engaged, right?”

“Um… No… He did propose, but we weren’t engaged…”

“You said no?”

“Yeah… I had a panic attack, said no, and ran away. I apologized to him after and he took it as a hint that I wasn’t for him. He was actually pretty understanding about it after I told him about Sebastian…”

“And yet you two obviously didn’t work things out.”

“Our relationship died at college.” She chuckled, circling the top of her glass with her finger as she reminisced. She met him after transferring to a different college nearby to get away from Sebastian.

“Do you regret it? That could’ve been you.” He nudged his head over towards Justin and his family.

“No; I don’t think it would’ve worked out. I wasn’t ready for all of that back then. I’m not sure I’m ready for it now… Sorry…”

“I’m the one who should be sorry. I’m the one forcing you into marriage when it seems you’re terrified of it. I’m not going to say I understand fully, but I know things are hard for you, and I plan on helping you deal with it all… somehow.”

“Thanks.”

“And I want to apologize beforehand for anything my parents might say, and for the fact that I know they’re going to want to fast track us through being engaged to being married.”

“By the way, can I read that contract? I’m not sure if we’re engaged or married.”

“We’re engaged, and promised to be married, or else I lose a lot.”

“What’s the timeline for us being married again?” My head’s starting to hurt.

“Well, I’m twenty-three and I have until my twenty-fifth birthday, so less than two years.”

“Ha… I keep forgetting you’re so young.”

Leon’s brows furrowed, and he pouted. “Are you saying I look old for my age or act older than my age?”

“Act older.”

“Oh, okay…” he let out a deep sigh. “Yes, I suppose I’m more mature than many people my age, but please stop worrying about the difference; it doesn’t bother me any, and it’s really not that big of a gap.”

“I was just wondering what your parents will think of it.”

“They won’t care; they just want me hitched.” He couldn’t help but think they never cared much about anything when it came to him. They wanted him to follow their rules, learn their ways, and live the way they wanted him to, but they always seemed to leave him on his own.

“Shouldn’t they at least care if you’re marrying a gold-digger or something?”

“As long as the marriage lasts, I can’t say they’d care.”

Are they really that bad? Or is his view of them skewed?

“You seem skeptical, but you should’ve seen the women they tried to set me up with before.” he shuddered. “I firmly turned them all down, of course.”

I really don’t know what to expect at this dinner party…

Dessert showed up, and despite the nerves that were gnawing at her stomach, she dug into her slice of brownie cheesecake. “Mm, this is good.”

“You like sweets?” He took note of how she seemed to enjoy it even more than the meal. He doubted she knew, but her expressions spoke wonders.

“Yup; I love all sorts of desserts.”

Leon cut a piece off of his apple cinnamon cheesecake with his fork and held it up to her. “How about trying this one?”

“Um…” It looks good… Not even sure why I didn’t choose apple when I love’em so much. “I-it’s okay. You enjoy your food.”

“Why? It’s obvious you want some.” He smiled at her and held the fork closer.

“You don’t have to feed me.”

“I don’t have to, but I want to. I suppose I can’t force you to eat it though.” He ate the bit on his fork and she gasped. “What? I thought you didn’t want it.”

Ella’s face flushed. “Quit teasing me.”

He cut another piece and held it up again. “Maybe I just like the idea of feeding you. If you want some, then take a bite, or else I’ll polish this off myself.”

Man, I’m weak to dessert. Before he could pull it away again, she bit down on the piece he offered. So good… “Mmm…” She leaned back, slowly enjoying the bite.

“Ahem… I know I started this, but you might want to rein in the um… noises.”

“Hmm?” She looked at him with a raised eyebrow for a moment before sitting straight up. If he’s implying what I think he’s implying, I should refrain from eating delicious food around people…

“Oh! I didn’t mean to make you feel self-conscious or anything. I love the fact that you enjoy your food. It’s just…” He glanced around the restaurant, glad no one was looking.

“I get it,” she mumbled.

He sighed, figuring he ruined things. “I’m sorry.” He bowed his head, staring at the half-eaten plate of cheesecake on the table, waiting for her to say something more.

“I’m… surprised you can apologize so easily. I find many people struggle with that.” Ella couldn’t help but think about Sebastian, who always blamed everyone else.

“I prefer to man up when I make a mistake. Not apologizing and trying to sweep it under the rug can make things worse down the line. I want to have an honest relationship with you that stands the test of time; it won’t do any good to ruin things by not apologizing.”

So mature… How is he twenty-three? “Thank you, but I’ll still keep it in mind not to make such… noises while I eat.”

“I only mentioned it because of others nearby. I enjoy listening to you.”

Her face flushed up to her ears. I can’t believe he said that…

Leon scratched the back of his head. “What I’m trying to say is… I don’t know, really, but maybe I should change the location to suit you, not the other way around.”

“How would you do that?”

“Find restaurants with private booths, or rooms so it won’t matter.”

“You make it sound like it’s okay to make those noises…” Ella looked away from him.

“In front of me? Yes, of course it is. I also imagine your friends don’t care, since this seems like news to you.”

“Well, to be fair, they’re worse than me…”

Leon laughed. “I guess if it’s that common, then this is more of a ‘me’ problem than anything.”

“I’ll at least… try not to be so loud.” She poked at the fork sitting on her plate. “How about some payback?” She held up a piece to him and he ate it without hesitation. I guess that’s not payback for him. “You…”

“Mmm.” He smiled at her. “You’re right, this is good.”

“Ha…” She quietly ate the rest of her dessert, avoiding looking up. When she finally did peek, her eyes locked with Leon’s. He was resting his chin on his hands, his elbows on the table as he stared at her.

“I guess we should go.” He sighed. “I’d rather stay here for another round of dessert…”

“And as much as I’d like that, I don’t want to be overfull while at the dinner party and risk losing it.”

“Oh… Try not to be too nervous; they’re mostly harmless now.” Leon looked away for a moment and sighed. “I know it’s useless to say something like that, but I’m sorry; I don’t know how to help nerves.”

“Don’t leave me alone there if you can avoid it.”

“I hate to say it, but there’s a good chance someone there will want to drag me away, but I’ll do my best to stick by your side.”

“All I can ask for, I suppose. Alright, let’s go.”

---

Continued in chapter 18.

One Life Stand – Chapter 15

So warm… Ella slowly roused in the morning, encompassed in a warm embrace. Her eyes shot open, and she looked down at the arms around her from behind.

I did it again, didn’t I? She moved a bit and the arms around her tightened.

“Good morning,” Leon mumbled and kissed the back of her head.

“M-morning…” She swallowed hard. Ha… naked in bed with a… Well, he is my fiancé, so this is okay, isn’t it?

“Please don’t tell me you were drunker than you seemed last night, and you’ve forgotten our night together again, or that you regret it…”

Ella felt him tremble slightly. “No, that’s not it… More like…” I do remember our first time now… “I’m embarrassed, I guess.”

“Embarrassed? Why? I know this isn’t your first time… nor am I the only one you’ve slept with, and that’s okay…” Though he wouldn’t have minded if he had been the only one. “If anything, I’m the one who should be like that.” He chuckled, hoping to disperse some of the tension.

“I’m embarrassed because I got drunk in front of you again… and I definitely told you too much last night… Ugh…” I can’t imagine he has a good opinion of me now. 

“Honestly, I hope I’m the only one you get drunk in front of anymore.”

She glanced back at him, wide-eyed.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m not endorsing drinking too much or anything; I just don’t want any other guys seeing you drunk… or being around you while you are. You’re too cute and vulnerable; I’d worry about someone trying to take advantage of you.”

“Oh…” That make sense. I wonder if he’s been worried about my drinking and whatnot since the first day. Wait… Did he… “Did you say I’m cute when I’m drunk?”

“I did, but I think you’re always cute, especially when you’re blushing up to your ears like you are right now.” He chuckled.

She covered her face with her hands and could feel the heat. “Oh my gosh, you like teasing me, don’t you?”

“I think most guys like teasing the girl they like.”

She sighed and shook her head. “S-so, when are we getting out of bed?”

He smiled at her and loosened his grip. “You can get out of bed whenever you feel like it.”

“But…” Then you’d see all of me.

“You realize I saw all of you last night, right? And vice versa, of course.” Not that it was the first time.

Mind-reader. “That was at night and with some liquid courage; I’m not ready for that now, though.”

After a moment, Leon sighed and rolled onto his other side, looking away. “Fine; I won’t look at you this time.”

She tried to take the blanket with her, and Leon tugged on it. “What are you doing?”

“You don’t need to rob me of the blanket to get changed. I’m facing the other way.”

“And you won’t turn around until I say you can?”

“Promise.”

She took a deep breath and rushed to the bathroom, grabbing her clothes off the floor on the way over.

Leon smirked, looking at her reflection in the window. “Worth the peek…” he mumbled and got up to put some clothes on himself.

Ella stared at herself in the mirror and noticed a bunch of hickeys on her chest. Oh my gosh… I can’t believe he left those. Although, none of them are in a spot that others will see. By chance or on purpose? Doesn’t matter… She shook her head and pulled her clothes on, surprised to find another one on the back of her shoulder. I don’t even remember that one.

“You okay in there?” Leon asked, knocking on the bathroom door.

“Yup…” She opened the door and came face-to-face with him. “You look ready to go already.”

“Of course; I don’t take long getting ready because I’m so used to always doing it last minute.”

“Isn’t that a bad thing?”

Leon shrugged. “I always got up late when I was in school, but still managed to make it in time for class. It can come in handy to be able to change fast. Anyway, let’s go home.” He held his hand out to her and smiled, careful not to let his hand shake.

“Okay.” She took his hand, and he laced his fingers through hers.

“Definitely going to remember this hotel,” he said as he closed the door behind them.

Ella blushed and looked away from him. What do I tell the girls? I bet they’re still worried…

After a quiet ride back to his hotel, Leon and Ella headed to the top to their penthouse suite.

“Alice?” Ella’s eyes widened as she spotted her outside their home, talking to Zeke. She tried to release Leon’s hand, but he gripped onto her tighter.

“Zeke… Is something wrong?” Leon asked.

“You’re finally back,” Zeke huffed, having been waiting for hours. He had tried to contact Leon, but never got a response.

“You have a key to the place, so why are you waiting out here?”

“I was inside, but eventually this little cretin kept pounding on the door asking to see Ella. I came out here to talk to her like a civilized person—”

“Who are you calling a cretin?” Alice fumed, glaring at him as she stomped a foot towards him.

“What do you suggest I call you then, with how you’ve been acting?”

“Alice, like a normal human.”

Leon and Ella exchanged a glance. “Zeke, let’s go inside.” Leon waved his hand towards the entrance.

“Yes, sir,” he grumbled and let them all in.

“Alice.” Ella hesitated for a moment and hooked her arm through Alice’s. “Let’s talk.” She dragged her away to her bedroom to let Zeke and Leon talk alone.

“You’re talking to me again?” Alice’s eyes shook, her head tilted down as she peered up at Ella.

Trying to pull a cute look on me? To be fair, it works most of the time.

“We’ve been friends a long time and I’ve cooled my head a bit, so I think it’s time we talk…” I don’t even remember exactly what she said anymore. “I don’t want to lose you over this.”

“I don’t want to lose you either. I can’t go a day without wanting to call you.” Alice’s grip on her arm tightened.

“You did call; I didn’t answer. You texted, too.”

“I’m sorry if I seem like a stalker or something, but I need you and want you in my life.”

“Honestly… I’m not even sure what I bring to your life other than drama.”

“I enjoy a little drama, but you seem to forget all the times I’ve had to lean on you. All the break-ups you helped me through. All the ice cream we’ve eaten together as we watched rom-coms after my break-ups.”

Ella’s face scrunched up as she thought about it. “Why do you break-up with so many of them if you know you’re going to be hurt?”

“Pretty sure I should ask you the same thing, but you know me; I don’t want long-term, and once we hit a certain point, I have to break it or they’ll get attached. Anyway… the point is, I love you and need you in my life. I’m sorry I said such mean things. I’m not in your situation; I haven’t lived your life, and I shouldn’t have said—”

“I’m sorry, too. I overreacted; you’re right about me. I’ve been leading guys on for years without noticing and then running away once they wanted more.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t think about what reason you might’ve had to act that way. I can’t believe he was your first boyfriend. He seemed like such a prick and—”

“He was sweeter when I met him.”

“Again… sorry for my big mouth, and apparently thoughtless comments.”

“You talked to Kyra, didn’t you?” Ella sighed. She’s the only one who knew a bit about him.

“Yes… Don’t be mad at her, though.”

“I’m not mad at her.”

“Oh, well, good then. Question… Why didn’t you tell me about him? Between all of us, I thought we were the closest.”

“We are, but Kyra is different from us; she’s mature and accepting and—”

“Motherly? I agree.” Alice chuckled. “I can’t really blame you for telling her.”

“It’s not like I told her all about him, but I explained a bit when she found a picture in my room while she was cleaning.”

Alice nodded. “I sometimes think she likes cleaning our rooms so she can try to find our secrets.”

“Probably,” Ella laughed. “She wants to know our secrets, but at the same time, she’ll keep’em.”

“Unlike Charlie, who blabs on about other people’s secrets so easily.” Alice sighed. “Never trusting her like that again,” she muttered, shaking her head. “So, I have to ask… do you forgive me?”

Ella nodded. “I can’t stay mad at you about it.” Especially since she was right about me.

Unable to contain herself, Alice lunged at her for a hug. “I’ve missed you, and I was so worried about you yesterday. I can’t believe you were with a scary person like him, and all I want to do now is protect you from him.”

“You did, didn’t you? All of you did… while I ran away.”

“In this case, I think it was okay that you ran away. Fight or flight and all that; it’s about self-preservation.”

“I was probably safe once all of you were there, but the anxiety was so overwhelming that I couldn’t stay anymore. I needed somewhere quiet away from everyone.”

“I know I don’t suffer from anxiety like you do, but I understand needing to step away from a situation to have a moment to yourself.” Alice wrapped her arm around Ella’s and laid her head on her shoulder. “I’m glad you’re back, and I have something to ask you.”

“What’s that?”

“Did you sleep with Leon again?”

Ella froze, her jaw hanging open.

“I knew it,” Alice laughed.

“How?”

Alice pointed at Ella’s face. “You’ve got an extra glow to you right now. Must’ve been good.” She wiggled her eyebrows.

“I was also drunk again.”

Alice’s face dropped. “Does this mean you don’t remember it?”

Her face turned red as she bit her lip. “No… I remember this time…” I remember the first time now, too.

“Which means you can give me all the juicy details, right?” She rubbed her hands together.

“Since when do I ever talk about that?”

“Don’t we always?” Alice frowned, staring off to the side as she tried to remember.

“You talk about it while I listen.”

“How in the world did I never notice that?” Alice laid back on the bed, her mouth agape, and arms spread out.

“Charlie has talked to you about it, though? On that note, why do you two fight so much when it seems like you two should get along the best?”

“Hmm… Maybe we’re too similar then… Ugh, way to ruin things.” Alice rolled onto her side.

“By the way, is Charlie okay? She was with you when you were trying to deal with… him.”

“She’s fine; Charlie’s a tough girl, and we all know it. I hope you thanked Leon for dealing with the situation; I wouldn’t be surprised if he got a restraining order put on him after that.”

“That’d probably be a good thing. So… are they mad at me?”

“Who? Charlie and Kyra? No, of course not; they understand it was a bad situation. They’re just glad you’re okay.”

---

Continued in chapter 16.

One Life Stand – Chapter 13

“Can you just leave me alone, Sebastian?” Ella asked, hoping it’d be easy.

“That’s not a nice way to talk to me.” Sebastian grabbed her forearm.

“What do you think you’re doing? Let go of me.” She tried to pull away from him and then shrunk back at the dark look in his eyes. Please, someone… help me… She quivered and scrunched her eyes closed.

“Get your hands off her.” A woman in dark clothing and sunglasses came charging at them and chopped at his hand.

“Alice?” Ella recognized her voice.

“Ouch.” Sebastian let go and rubbed his hand. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?” He raised his hand, ready to slap Alice.

“I’d rethink that if I were you.” Charlie appeared from the other side and grabbed his raised arm. He shoved her off, and she stumbled back. “Dammit,” she cursed under her breath as she hit the ground.

“Charlie!” Ella reached out to her and Sebastian blocked her path. “Stop it, Sebastian. I know how much you hate making a scene, and this is turning into one.”

“It’s only turning into one because you’re reacting like this.”

“Still never willing to admit when something’s your fault?” How can a decade go by, but he still stayed this way?

“How is this any of my fault? Come on, let’s go talk in private.” He reached out to grab her, but someone else grabbed him again. This time, he yelped in pain as he was brought to his knees.

“What’s going on here?” Leon was fuming. He had rushed over once he saw Sebastian push Charlie.

“Who the hell are you?”

“Ella’s fiancé. Who are you?”

Sebastian’s expression darkened. “Her ex-fiancé.”

Leon’s eyes widened. He never expected to meet any of them. “Well… That doesn’t matter; you’re in the past and I’m her future.”

“We’ll see about that. I think it’s fate we reunited here, of all places.”

Ella took a few steps back, her stomach in her throat.

“Why would it matter where you are?” Leon moved to step between them, blocking his view of her.

“Heh, you don’t know much about her past, do you?”

Don’t tell him.

“This is the place we got engaged.”

And the place you broke my heart… Ella backed away from all of them, her breathing ragged.

“She must’ve had me in mind to bring you here.” He laughed. “Doesn’t bode well for you, bub. Why don’t you just move along and forget about her?”

“How can you talk all big while you’re on your knees?” Leon put pressure on Sebastian’s arm and he yelped.

“Don’t worry, security is coming for him,” Alice said, her phone to her head. “They’ll deal with you. Ella…?” Alice looked over behind Leon and didn’t see her. “Where’d she go?”

Charlie turned around and searched the crowd before pulling her phone out to call her. “She’s not answering.”

“She… ran away?” Alice bit her lip.

“This place is huge; how are we supposed to find her?”

“Call Kyra… Oh, there’s security now.” Alice waved them over.

After a lot of arguing and outsiders explaining what they saw, security dragged Sebastian out of the amusement park and put a ban on him. Kyra showed up in time to see Sebastian leaving.

“I guess I know why he looked familiar now,” Charlie said, remembering an old photo she saw of Ella with him.

“None of you know him?” Leon asked. He looked between them all; when he checked up on Ella, he was told about her close friendship with all of them.

“He’s… pre-our time,” Alice said. “Like… he was the high school sweetheart, and I knew he asked her to marry him, but she never said anything about agreeing to it… to me, at least. On that note, she never said much about him, but we all got the feeling things didn’t end on a good note.”

“She talked to me about him once,” Kyra said. “She said he was sweet in the beginning, until they started college, and then he changed. He became possessive and controlling… to the point of not wanting to let her out on her own. She was so afraid of him…” Kyra sighed. “I wish she never had to run into him ever again.”

“What’s done is done.” He held his phone out. “Give me your numbers, and we can split up to look for her.”

“Okay.” Kyra took it and put all their numbers in. “We’ll let you know.” Kyra headed off first, hustling like a mother looking for her baby.

“I still doubt she wants to talk to me…” Alice trailed off, realizing Ella had more than one reason to want to run than she thought. “But I’ll let you know…”

“Come on.” Charlie wrapped her arm around Alice’s.  “We’ll check on the other side of the amusement park. Good luck.” Charlie dragged her away.

“Ella… Where would you go?” Leon looked at his surroundings, trying to remember any place in the amusement park that stood out. Where would she hide? Where would she run to? Is there somewhere she’d feel safe away from everyone? He looked up in the distance and saw the Ferris wheel. “Maybe…” he mumbled and took off towards it.

Why? Why did he have to be here the same day as me? Ella sat on a bench surrounded by foliage on an elevated area, blocked off from people’s views. Most people didn’t know about it, but she had found it while working there, and used it as her place to relax while still in the amusement park. I haven’t been here in so long. She gazed up at the Ferris wheel in clear view. I used to love looking at it, but now… it makes me remember him…

Ella played with the ring on her finger, trying to remind herself that things were different now. Sebastian had been out of her life for so long, but seeing him again brought back a lot of memories; both good and heartbreakingly bad.

“Have I really not changed?” Ella rested her head in her hands. I’m still just running away from everything, even though my friends were there. They were trying to protect me, and I ran. I’m so pathetic… Tears threatened to fall.

Leon stood in front of the Ferris wheel, the sky darkening. There was a line-up for the Ferris wheel, and Ella wasn’t there. He approached the attendant and pulled up a picture of her on his phone. “Have you seen this woman?”

They looked closely at the picture. “It’s hard to say; so many people go through here… but I don’t think so. I’m sorry.”

“Okay…” he sighed and stepped away. “If she’s not here, then where?” He gripped the metal railing and gazed up at the Ferris wheel. “If she’s not on it, then maybe she’s somewhere she can view it.” He scanned through the nearby crowds. “Or I’m wrong and she’s not here at all.” He sighed and stretched his stiff neck. A cliff above with a railing caught his eye. He could see trees and bushes, but since it had a railing, it must’ve still been a part of the amusement park. “How would I even get up there?”

No matter how many tears she wiped away, they kept coming back. “Ugh, why won’t it stop?”

“Because you keep avoiding your past pain instead of dealing with it.” The bushes behind her rustled and Leon came out, a bit out of breath. “Do you know how hard it is to find this spot?” he huffed and sat down next to her.

She tensed, clutching her phone in her hands as she expected the worst.

He leaned back, gazed up at the sky, and let out an exhausted sigh. “Ah… I thought I was in better shape than this…” He steadied his breathing before turning to look at her. A tear-stained face and red eyes. She turned away from him.

Strong arms wrapped around her from behind and hugged her tightly. “It’s not the past, Ella; he has nothing to do with you anymore,” Leon whispered into her ear. “He’s been tossed out of the amusement park and can’t hurt you anymore.” She trembled in his arms. “If you can manage to trust me, I can keep you safe.”

“You’re not… mad?”

“Maybe a little, but I was more afraid and worried than anything. I’m so glad I found you, and that you’re safe.” He sighed and hugged her tighter.

Much to her own surprise, her tears stopped, and she leaned back into him. “I’m… sorry about him.”

“What are you apologizing for? You didn’t ask him to come here.”

“But…”

“None of what happened is your fault.” He pulled her over onto his lap, his arms still around her waist.

“W-what are you doing?” She tried to get off of him, but his grip tightened.

“Hopefully making you more safe and comfortable, and trying to get a look at your face since you’re trying to hide it from me.” And make sure she didn’t run, but he didn’t want to say it out loud.

More nervous, not more comfortable. “Don’t look at my face right now; it’s a mess.”

“I’m going to be your husband; I plan to see every face you can make, and hopefully be the only one for some of them.”

Her lip quivered.

“Your friends are worried about you, especially Alice, so once you’re feeling better, you should talk to them. For now, I’ll let them know you’re safe.” He pulled out his phone and texted the others.

“You have their numbers?”

“Yes, for exactly this purpose. Look, they’re happy you’re alright.” He showed her the texts from them on his phone.

Of course, they’d go looking; my friends are awesome, and I’m not sure I even deserve them with the trouble I always cause.

“And they went looking for you because they care about you, you know? They value you more than you know. And regardless of what you think, you’re an amazing person to them… and to me…”

She cringed. He doesn’t know me well enough for that.

“I know you better than you think…”

“And apparently you’re a mind reader.” She glanced at him.

“I’ve just noticed how hard you are on yourself sometimes, and how much you seem to run away from things.”

“Ha… pathetic, isn’t it? I can’t see anything through, can I? It’s no wonder my relationships explode.”

“I don’t think it’s pathetic. A bit worrying because I don’t want you to run from me, but no, not pathetic. If anything, I think you have a trauma that keeps nagging you more than it does most people, but that doesn’t mean things won’t change. And how long have you four been friends?”

“I’m not even sure anymore… almost ten years, I think. Kyra remembers dates better…”

“See, you have a long-term relationship that’s still going, several, actually. And as long as you make up with Alice like I know you both want to, I think it’ll last a lifetime. I’m also hoping a certain other relationship lasts a lifetime.” He sighed and kissed her shoulder.

“You know… with this whole fiancée thing, I kinda expected you to use me for a few years, then discard me, but you’re serious about a lifetime, aren’t you?”

His eyes widened slightly. “I told you it was a lifetime commitment before…”

“Yeah, but… Look at how we went about things. I keep thinking you were desperate to find someone normal who wasn’t after your money, and you figured you could stand being around me, so you went with me as quickly as you could after we met that night.”

He took a deep breath. “I know this might seem like a contract marriage or something like that, but it’s not really. I mean, I need you to inherit the company, but I’m not going to leave you after a few years or anything like that. I’m the one bound by all sorts of things; you’re really the one thing… person I got to choose for my life. Hell, if you don’t want to bear kids in the future, I’m totally okay with adopting a kid.”

“I… I guess even with all you’ve said, I still didn’t believe you were serious.”

“Do you now?” His eyes pleaded with her. “Because I have been serious this whole time.”

It still doesn’t make sense to me… Why me? “You’re one-hundred percent certain you want me?”

“Yes.”

She sighed and looked up at the darkened sky. “I guess that means you deserved to know about… Sebastian…”

“I will admit I’m curious, but you don’t have to talk about him if you don’t want to.” He could only imagine all the bad memories that might come back by talking about him.

“You should know about him… and about my dad I guess…” Or the other ones that proposed? That might be a bit much all at once.

“Well, I want to know more about you, but you don’t have to stress yourself out about it, or do it all at once. That said, I’d love to talk. So, shall we head home?”

“That’s a bit of a drive… and I don’t want to lose my nerve.” I definitely want something to drink.

“There’s a great hotel right here at the amusement park, if you’d prefer that.”

“Wouldn’t it be bad to stay in one that isn’t your own or something?”

He chuckled. “One, I’m allowed to stay wherever I want and no one will care since it’s a hotel, and two, my dad owns the one attached to this place, anyway…”

“Does it have alcohol?” Although I stopped drinking after that night… for a while…

“Of course.”

“Then let’s go.” She went to stand and finally remembered she’d been sitting on his lap the entire time, his arm still around her waist. “Um…”

“Want me to carry you there?”

“I’ll pass…” That’d be super embarrassing.

Leon sighed. “I guess I have to let go now.” He slowly released her because he wasn’t sure she wouldn’t run away.

“Thanks.” She hopped off of him, her ears red, and her back turned to him as she held her hand out. “Let’s go.”

---

Continued in chapter 14.

One Life Stand – Chapter 11

“Ella? Is something wrong? You’ve been cleaning the same spot for a while now.” Alice nudged her.

“Hmm? Oh… Oops…” Ella shook off her daze. She was helping Alice again for the day, since Leon didn’t need her help, but she couldn’t stop thinking about the kiss from the other day. No matter how much she tried to distract herself, her mind always went back to Leon’s kiss. Why can’t I stop thinking about it? I must’ve gone insane or something.

“Ella, you’re doing it again.” Alice stole Ella’s towel from her hand. “I think the nightstand is so clean it’ll start shining soon. So, fess up. What happened? You know you want to tell me.”

I’m not sure I do since I’m still having a hard time with it myself. Her vision blacked out by the towel Alice dropped on her head. “Hey, what was that for?” Ella tugged the towel off.

“Stop zoning out?” 

“I can’t help it,” she pouted.

“Oh, do tell.” Alice stood toe-to-toe with her. “Or I’ll get Kyra to come and pry it out of you.”

Ella narrowed her eyes. “You wouldn’t.”

“Oh, but I would.” Alice pulled out her phone and went into her contact list, where Kyra was listed in favourites. She held her finger over the call button. “So, what will it be?”

“Okay, stop! Put that away.” Ella closed the door to the room they were fixing up. “I was cooking dinner with Leon…”

“Oh, nice; can he cook?”

“Not too much, as far as I can tell. Anyway, he brought up our night together, saying it was passionate and whatnot, unlike what he thinks my previous relationships were like. I didn’t believe him, so he wanted to prove it with a kiss.”

Alice’s eyes lit up, and she leaned in eagerly. “And what happened? Did he kiss you? Did he knock your socks off? Oh, oh, oh, I know, that’s why you’re in a daze! You’ve been thinking about kissing him all day.”

“Not quite… But I have been thinking about the kiss…”

“Must’ve been good if you’re still thinking about it now.”

“Well…” Ella blushed.

“Yes!” Alice cheered, clapping. “I’ve never seen you so flustered over a kiss; it was definitely mind-blowing!”

“But…”

“Isn’t this exactly what you’ve been waiting for all these years? Isn’t it the reason you’ve turned down so many proposals? Didn’t you want the chemistry? The passion?”

“Can you really call it passion?”

“Isn’t it?”

“Isn’t passion more when you want someone… completely?”

“You sure that isn’t lust and possessiveness? Besides, what makes you so sure he doesn’t want you? I mean, come on, he wanted you enough to promise marriage and bed you the first time you two had a real meeting. What else would you call that?”

“Harsh circumstances making him need someone, and I was good enough for it?” Although, I don’t know why.

“Love at first sight, maybe.”

“Do you really believe in that? How long does that even last? You can love them until you find out more about them, and suddenly, they aren’t so appealing.”

“I think that’s conditional love, though. And sometimes it works out in the long run.”

Ella sighed. “And how many times does it not?”

“How long have you been this cynical?”

“I’m not cynical…”

“Have you listened to yourself lately? A mind-blowing kiss from the man you’re going to marry… and yet… you want to run away? You want more? I really don’t know what you’re looking for anymore.”

“What about you? What are you looking for? Or do you like jumping from one man to the next without having a long-term relationship?”

Alice sighed. “That is what I want right now. Maybe even for forever, who knows?”

“We’ve already hit the point that it’ll be harder to find someone to marry later.”

“I’m only looking to keep having fun; you’re the one who sticks with the same one for years and then turns down their proposals… sometimes in cruel ways, if I might say.”

“I’m not trying to be cruel.”

“But you are. Think about it from their perspective. You’re with the person you love, envisioning this long future together and thinking you’re doing the same, so they ask for your hand, and bam, their heart is ripped to shreds by your rejection, and you run away from them. That’s much worse than anyone I’ve broken up with; none of them have been disillusioned into thinking I wanted a future with them. Face it, Ella; you’ve left a line of destruction in your wake.”

Ella went completely silent during Alice’s rant. Am I really so horrible? She could feel tears stinging her eyes.

“Ella?”

Ella looked at her watch. “I have to go; time to start dinner…” She turned and left, clutching onto her shirt over her heart.

“Ella, wait… Dammit…” Alice realized her mistake. She couldn’t even believe herself, that she was so hard on her. “Ugh… This is such a mess…”

After cooking dinner and putting an apple pie in the oven, Ella sat around in the kitchen, waiting in a daze.

Something tickled her nose.

What is that? Oh my gosh! It was the smell of her pie burning. “No, no, no!” She rushed to turn off the oven and take the pie out. “Ouch!” She yelped, having touched it without an oven mitt, and burned her hand. “Dammit.” She grabbed the mitts, pulled the pie out, and rinsed her hand in the sink with cool water. What else is going to go wrong today? Tears formed in her eyes again as she looked at the burnt pie.

Too busy trying to cool the burn on her hand and not break down in tears, she didn’t hear the front door open. Leon, smelling the burnt pie, dropped his briefcase and rushed into the kitchen to make sure there wasn’t a fire. He saw the pie on the counter and Ella running water over her hand and put things together.

“Ella…” He got the first aid kit out from the bathroom cabinet and set it on the table, searching through for ointment and bandages. “I think you’ve held it under the water long enough.” When she didn’t respond, he lightly touched her shoulder.

“Oh!” She jumped and looked at him for a second before turning away. “I’m sorry… I didn’t hear you come in.”

Leon turned off the water and lightly patted her hand down with a towel.

“I can do that…” She tried to take the towel from him, but he refused to let go.

“Let me help you. Come, sit down.” He led her over to the table, where the first aid kit was sitting open, its contents spilled about.

He noticed I was injured right away? She stared at her reddened hand with furrowed brows as he carefully put ointment on it and bandaged her hand. “Thanks…” she mumbled and went to pull her hand away.

“One last thing.” He kept hold of her hand and leant down to gently kiss it. “To help it heal.” He glanced up at her, and his expression fell at the tears in her eyes. “Is it hurting that bad? Do I need to call a doctor or something? Zeke is actually good with this.”

“It’s not about the burn,” she huffed and tried to make a getaway.

“Ella…” He tugged on her good hand. “What’s going on? Tell me what happened.”

She looked over at the pie. “So much wasted food and effort.”

“It won’t go to waste; I’ll eat it all.”

“What?! You can’t! It’s obviously burnt and deserves to go in the trash.”

“No, it doesn’t. Sure, it’s a little dark, but I can tell how much work you put into it, and I refuse to waste your effort.”

“I’m normally good at this…” she mumbled.

“Everyone has an off day now and then.” He patted her shoulder.

Is he really twenty-three? I mean… he looks it, but he’s definitely more mature than the men I knew when I was his age.

“Now, I hope you don’t mind me asking, but what happened to leave you so… distraught?” He couldn’t help but think it was about something more than just a pie.

Ella frowned, not wanting to tell him.

He pushed a strand of hair out of her face and trailed his finger down her cheek. “You might feel better if you tell someone.” He rested a hand on top of hers in her lap and caressed hers with his thumb. “I promise I’m a good listener, so will you talk to me? Please.” He gave her a gentle smile.

He’s not going to give up, is he? “I had a fight with Alice…”

“About what? I’m sure friends fight all the time.”

She sighed and could feel the tears building again at the thought of her conversation with Alice. “Well, all she did it point out the truth.” She laughed weakly. “I leave a path of broken hearts and destruction in my path… I shouldn’t be with anyone… All I’ll do is bring pain.” She covered her eyes with her hands, but it didn’t stop the tears from dripping down her cheeks. “How many people have I broken just because of how I am?”

He took her hands away from her face and kissed the tears on her cheeks. “Did she actually say all of that?”

“I don’t remember the exact words, but basically…” She turned away, not wanting him to see her face.

“I see… Maybe it was in the heat of the moment, and she didn’t really believe that.”

“It came from somewhere, and she’s right… You’d be better off running the other way.”

His cheek twitched. “You do remember what happens if I don’t marry you, right? I lose the company, people lose their jobs…”

“Oh, right…” He’s stuck with me I guess…

“But I also believe we can make things work. You already have a guarantee of a… relationship together and won’t have to worry about money or about me straying or anything like that. And I know you denied it, but we’ve proven we have amazing chemistry. If anything, you needed to get rid of those previous boyfriends so you could have space for me.” He smiled at her. “I’d rather they all be in the past, while I get to be your present and future.”

“You’re not afraid? Afraid I’ll run away—”

“I’ll find you if you go missing.”

“What if I don’t want to be found?”

“I’ll wait until you do.”

“And if that never happens?”

“I’m not that patient. I’ll work to make sure you do want to come back to me.”

“Ha…” Ella sighed. How can someone be so set on another person? “What if you tire of me?”

“That’ll never happen.”

“You can’t promise that.”

“I just did. I’m in this for life, Ella, and I hope you are, too. Your past with them won’t matter anymore, and there will be no more worrying about an unknown future or leaving others heartbroken.”

He’s so… intense… She couldn’t tear her eyes away from his.

“After we have dinner, and you catch what I hope to be a good night’s rest, then talk to Alice again. I’m sure she’s itching to talk to you if you’ll turn on your phone.”

“How’d you know I turned it off?”

He chuckled. “You didn’t answer my call. I was actually worried and called the hotel to check if you were here…”

“You were worried because my phone was off?”

“Yes; seeing as I never turn mine off, and if I remembered correctly, most of my peers in college and high school didn’t either.”

“Well, young man, it’s not that way for my group of friends. We shut off when we want alone time.”

“Young man?” His eye twitched. “Look, I know there’s a bit of an age gap, but it’s really not that big in the grand scheme of things.”

“You’re in your early twenties, and I’m already thirty… so yes, I can feel the age gap.”

“It’s not even a decade difference; don’t worry about it. And yes, I’m aware some people find it odd when the woman is older, but I don’t care, and that’s what matters. I hope you won’t let it bother you.” He scratched his neck, losing confidence.

“Hard to say, but I suppose I’ll have to learn to deal with it either way.” She averted her gaze.

“And please, don’t ever call me ‘young man’ like that again.” He shuddered.

“What’s wrong with that? You are young, after all.”

“Because it makes you sound way older than me… and like I’m in trouble at school or something.”

Ella couldn’t help but laugh. “Okay, I’ll try to refrain from calling you that.”

Leon smiled, glad she laughed. “Now, let’s eat.”

After eating the main meal, Leon picked up the pie, grabbed a fork, and sat down at the kitchen table with it.

“What are you doing?” Ella reached for the burnt pie and he pulled it away.

“I’m doing exactly what I said I was going to do,” Leon said.

“But it’s burnt… At least pick off the dough from the top; the inside itself might be edible.”

“Nope; I’m eating it all.” He dug in and didn’t even flinch from the burnt dough as he ate.

“It’s also a full pie, and you’re going to eat the whole thing?”

“I haven’t done it since my early college days, but I think I could still eat a full pie.”

He can eat that after a meal? Where does he put it all? An image of his fit, bare body from their night together flashed through her mind. Definitely can’t tell he can eat like this… And why did I have to remember that now? Her cheeks flushed.

“Are you okay?” he asked in between while his mouth was empty. “Your face is red.”

“Dehydration.” She rushed to grab a bottle of water from the fridge and chugged a bit down.

“You know what, I know there’s a little bit burnt, but it was still a good pie.” He cleaned up every crumb in the pan. “Whew.” He patted his stomach. “Been a while,” he laughed.

“You are so… sweet…” she mumbled. “Doing that for me…”

“I will eat all the food you make for me.”

“But what if it’s not cooked properly?”

“I’ll eat it and get sick… and you can nurse me back to health.” He wiggled his eyebrows and smirked.

“I’ll try to do better…” Especially since it doesn’t even seem like he’s going to use my skills as a concierge.

“Quit worrying about it so much. Things went wrong while you were having a bad day; it happens. Now, what do you say to relaxing on the couch with me and watching TV? You can even choose what we watch.”

“Uh… sure…”

“Maybe we should change into loungewear, though, since a suit isn’t that comfortable, and you’re still in your uniform.” He loosened his tie.

Despite herself, Ella’s eyes were drawn to his neck as he did it. Ha… I don’t know why I find it sexy when a man loosens his tie… but it sure is. She bit her lip.

“Ella?”

“Hmm?”

“You’re zoning out again.” When he noticed she was biting her lip, he smirked and sauntered up to her, his eyes narrowed. “We could do something else if you’d prefer. Have some adult fun in the kitchen, or living room, or how about we shower together?”

“N-no thank you.” She backed up into a wall, her heart racing. “Watching TV suits me fine.”

He leaned close to her and kissed her on the cheek. “Okay then.” He backed away and headed for his room.

All the tension she had released, and she slid to the floor. How can he be so… brazen? Intense? Ah, this is when I normally contact the girls. But if I talk to one of them, they’ll bring up Alice… Not wanting to be caught sitting on the floor, she forced herself to stand and rushed into her room to get changed.

PJs should be fine, right? She gave Penny a hug and came out in her nightgown to find Leon on the couch scrolling through their streaming service.

“I don’t know what you like to watch yet, but there’s a massive variety…” he trailed off as he looked at her. “That’s dangerous,” he muttered to himself.

“Is something wrong?” She hid a bit at her doorway, worried because of his reaction.

“No, I suppose not… Come on over.” He patted the spot beside him on the couch.

She sat down on the opposite corner of the couch, leaving plenty of space between them. He immediately closed the distance, his arm wrapping around her shoulders as he handed her the remote.

“Choose anything.” He smiled at her.

She took the remote and scrolled through while overly aware of Leon playing with her hair.

“A martial arts movie?”

“Yes, is that a problem?”

“No, I’m just surprised. I didn’t know you liked them.”

“I’ve watched them since I was little.”

“Cool.” He nodded and went quiet as it started.

Throughout the movie, he couldn’t help but glance at her and smile as she was completely focused on it, immersed in the action. He was expecting her to want to watch a rom-com or something along those lines, but he actually preferred it this way. At least he could tell she was being honest with her preference with how intensely she watched.

“Ha, that was a great movie; lots of epic choreography for the fights.” She sat back and looked over at him. A great way to relax. “But I’m sleepy now, so I should head to bed.” She let out a giant yawn.

“Okay.” Leon stood. “Goodnight then.” He tugged her close, kissed her forehead, and headed to his room.

She touched her forehead and sighed. Maybe this won’t be so bad.

---

Continued in chapter 12.

One Life Stand – Chapter 10

Early in the morning, Ella prepared them both breakfast and sat down to eat.

“Oh, wow.” Leon looked at the pile of French toast with fruit and cream waiting for him. “I usually only grab a coffee before work, but this looks too amazing to pass up. Thank you.” He kissed her temple and sat down to eat. “Mmm… This is good. Aren’t you going to eat, too?”

“Of course.” She dug in and couldn’t help but look at Leon as he enjoyed the food. I guess food is the way to Leon’s heart, as Zeke suggested.

He polished his food off quickly and set his plate in the sink. “There isn’t much to do up here right now, so feel free to either stay here or go help Jenny with anything she needs. I won’t be here for lunch today, so I’ll see you tonight.” He grabbed his jacket and headed for the front door.

“Okay, have a good day at work.”

He paused and quickly made his way back over to her. He kissed the top of her head. “You have a good day, too.” He smiled and headed off.

Ella touched the top of her head and her temple, the remnant of his kisses still lingering. He’s so natural at this…

She cleaned up what little needed to be cleaned and headed downstairs to meet up with Jenny. She made it in time for the morning meeting – which was no longer mandatory for her to attend – and stood beside Alice.

As soon as they noticed her, the whispers started.

“Isn’t she the one working personally for the boss?”

“What’s she doing here?”

“Did she get the boot already?”

“I heard she got cozy with him, so she’d get the easy job.”

“You mean she slept her way to the easy life?” one of them snickered.

I can’t fully deny that, can I?

“Quiet.” Jenny slammed her hand on the table and they all went silent. “What are you? A bunch of high schoolers with nothing better to do but gossip? If you can’t be professional, then I will find someone who can be. Now, let’s get this real meeting started.”

Ella stayed back after the meeting was over to speak to Jenny. “Thank you for that.” She bowed her head slightly.

“You don’t have to thank me for it; it’s my job to keep everyone in line,” Jenny said. “Besides, I can’t stand it when people act like that. I was hoping when I came here that we wouldn’t have to deal with this kind of crap, but I guess it’s everywhere.”

“Too true.”

“Anyway.” Jenny patted her shoulder. “I won’t fault you for sticking with Alice; it’s good to have friends close when most others around seem like enemies.”

“Not quite enemies, but still, I get your point. Thanks again.” Ella headed out of the room to find Alice waiting for her.

“I can’t believe them. Ugh…” Alice rolled her eyes. “At least we have a cool boss.”

“Agreed.”

After a long, hard day of helping out with customers around the hotel, Ella headed home with tired, achy feet.

Seems like we have a bit of a way to go before everyone and everything works together in tandem like it should. She stood outside the door to the penthouse suite, staring at it. I wonder if he’s home yet…

The door suddenly opened. “Ella, are you okay? You’ve been standing out here for a while.” Leon looked at her, worried.

“How… did you know I was out here?”

“I thought I heard someone coming, and then you didn’t come in, nor did anyone knock, so I came to check. Why are you standing out here like this?”

“Just… thinking.”

He sighed. “Look, I know you’re still getting used to this; I am too, but I truly think we can be good for each other.”

“I’m not sure I have much to offer you.”

“I’m sure you do; you just don’t see it yet. Now, are you coming in?” He stepped to the side.

Ella nodded and entered.

“Welcome home.” He kissed her on the cheek.

“T-thank you…” She blushed a little. Actually, it feels nice to be welcomed home like this. “I’m surprised you’re already here; I figured you’d be working late.”

“I would’ve been, but my last meeting for the day got rescheduled, so here I am.”

She looked over at the coffee table in the living room and saw papers scattered about around his laptop. “Looks like you’re still working to me.”

“Sorry; despite what my parents think, I work all the time, even at home after hours. I’ll clean this up…”

“Trying to steal my job again?” She chuckled. Despite what his parents think?

“Pretty sure you just got off work.”

“And technically, I’m your personal concierge, and I am in control of your suite.”

“Our suite.”

“Our…” Ella swallowed. Right, I live here, too.

“And since it’s ours, when no one’s on the clock, anyone can do the chores here. We can even call someone in if you really want, but I’d prefer not to.”

“Why does it sound like you want to do chores?”

“It’s not that I want to, but I think it’s fair.” He took hold of her hand. “That we share responsibilities.” He kissed the back of her hand. “Don’t you agree?”

“I… guess…” If we really do end up together, he’ll definitely have the bigger pay cheque, so I figured I’d do most of it… but he wants to share it? “Thanks.”

“No thanks needed.” He smiled at her.

“How about I make dinner?”

“You need to quit worrying so much.” He winked at her. “You just got home, so relax a little, and I’ll make dinner.”

“But… How about we make it together?”

His face lit up at her suggestion. “Good, because I mostly only make mac and cheese from a box.”

“Not one for cooking?”

“It’s not one of my strengths… But based on what I’ve tried of your food, you’re a great cook, so you can help balance it out. Now, I am in your hands; just tell me what to do.”

Ella couldn’t help but smile. “Okay, let’s get this started.”

Working together, she started him with something easier, peeling potatoes.

“These potatoes have so many eyes…” he mumbled.

“It happens; I’ve seen them grow more than a foot tall and leave the potato all wrinkly.”

“A foot-long eye? That must look a bit…”

“Creepy, yes, but it happens.” She made quick work of chopping up vegetables as he focused on the potatoes.

“Okay, the potatoes are done… Wow, am I slow at this or what?” He looked at the pile of vegetables in the pot already.

“I’m used to this, so, of course, I’ll be faster than you. Now, wash those up and dice’em.”

“Right, boss.” He followed her instructions, but when he went to cut it up, her eyes widen.

“Hold up.” She stopped him. “If you cut it like that, you might cut your fingers. Do it like this.” She showed him how to hold it. He tried on his own, but she wasn’t satisfied. She took his hand and curled his fingers a specific way before placing them on the potato to hold it. “This way, please; I don’t want you hurting yourself.” She went to back away and finally noticed how close she was to him. He brought his other arm up to pick up the knife again while she was still there. “Um…” She glanced up at him and found herself staring at his lips.

“Like this, right?”

“Hmm?”

“For cutting it.”

“What? Oh!” She turned back around, her face red. “Yup…”

He noticed the red crawling up her ears and smirked as he leaned in closer. “Make sure you keep an eye on me; I wouldn’t want to mess anything up.”

“Um…” She would’ve run away, but with a knife in his hand, she was afraid of causing an accident. “I-I think I should get back to cooking if you’ll let me go.” She pointed at the other pots.

“What if I don’t want to let you go?” he whispered into her ear.

She shuttered and bit her lip.”Then nothing will get done.”

“A shame, but I suppose you’re right.” He set the knife down and pulled his arms away.

“Thank you…” She inched away from him.

He sighed. “It was nice to hold you in my arms again.” He diced up the potatoes.

“It’s probably not because it was me, but just because a woman was in your arms…” she mumbled as she put a pot on the stove. Chances are, he’ll eventually fall into the arms of another.

“What was that?” He frowned.

“Nothing…”

“Ella.” He grabbed her arm and turned her to face him. “What did you say?”

“Nothing that matters.”

“If it’s really nothing, then it won’t matter if you repeat it.”

She swallowed hard and tightened her lips into a thin line.

“Do I have to pry your lips open?” He trailed his thumb across her bottom lip and leaned in close.

She quivered under his touch, and her lips parted slightly. He pressed on her lip and she bit him.

“Ouch, hey! You bit me!”

“Don’t put your hand near my mouth, then.”

He looked at the red mark on his thumb and burst out laughing. “You never react how I expect you to.”

He’s… laughing? Shouldn’t he be mad right now?

“You know what?” He licked his thumb. “Maybe it’s not so bad being bitten by you.”

“Did you just…” she trailed off, staring at him with wide eyes. He’s not the only one surprised by the other’s behaviour.

“Yes, I did, why? What’s wrong with that? Anyway, if you’re against answering enough to bite me, I think I’ll leave it be. But know this, you’re the only woman I want in my arms.” He turned his attention back to the potatoes.

Wait… Doesn’t that mean he heard me?

Ella stayed on edge the rest of the time they were cooking, flinching whenever he got near.

Eventually, Leon got fed up with it. “You’re the one that bit me; why are you acting like I’m going to do something to you?”

I’m not sure you won’t. Am I actually worried about that? He’s been well-behaved most of the time, hasn’t he? “Maybe I am worried you will…” She stirred the pot and turned it off, satisfied with the food.

“I’m not going to force myself on you or anything, but I do want to get closer to you. I don’t want a marriage where there’re no feelings or intimacy…”

“Ha… Maybe I’m just… still not over my ex. We were together for years, after all.”

 “Didn’t you break up with him?”

“Well… yes… It still hurts, though.”

He approached her again, trapping her against the counter. “If I remember correctly, you wanted to feel more from the relationship, right?”

She swallowed hard and wished there was somewhere she could run away to. “Right…”

“You want someone who cares for you, and who is stable, but at the same time, lights a fire in you.” He caressed her cheek. “You want passion and electrifying chemistry. So tell me, what did you feel that night?”

“I don’t remember that night.” Only little bits, anyway.

“Does that mean you need a repeat of our night together to give me a real chance?”

“W-what makes you so certain that would help?”

He leaned in close, staring into her eyes. “Because I remember the night quite well; it was too important for me not to remember.”

He looks… sad… Her heart wrenched.

“I remember your soft skin.” He trailed his hand down her arm and she quivered. “I remember your sensitive spots.” He lightly touched her spine through her clothes, and she twitched. “I remember the mole you have here.” He touched her right shoulder blade.

He can remember that from one night? How? Her heart raced more the longer he went.

“I remember the heat from your body… your moans… the way you called out my name… I remember how sad you were when we were in the bar, and I know you wanted to use me to ease your pain… and I’m okay with that, so long as you felt better.”

“You don’t normally marry your rebounds after a one-night stand.”

“Says who?” He shrugged. “There’s nothing wrong with ending up with the person you rebounded with. And for us, it’s not a one-night stand, it’s a one life stand.”

One life stand? Interesting way to put it.

“All that one night did is start the rest of our lives…” He let out a deep breath. “If you still don’t believe in our passionate night, might I at least have a kiss to prove myself?”  

“A-a kiss?” I can’t let him do that, can I?

“Yes… Considering what we’ve done, I don’t think that should make you so nervous. Besides, with your past, shouldn’t you be used to kissing by now? Or is it because it’s me you’re nervous? Are you worried we won’t have chemistry, or that we will?”

“I…” she trailed off, her brows furrowed. Which is it?

“If you’re nervous, you can close your eyes, and I’ll take the initiative.” He leaned in a hair’s breadth away. “I promise it’ll be good.”

Ha… A tingling sensation flew through her. “You can’t promise that…”

He smirked. “As the one who remembers that night, I can. In three… two…”

Her eyes widened for a moment and then she scrunched them closed.

“One…” He smirked before leaning in to kiss her. He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her in up against him, his other hand at the back of her head as he kissed her.

“Mmm…” Oh gosh… She could feel her body flushing with heat. He was… right? Her legs went weak, and he tightened his hold on her.

When he finally pulled back, her breathing was ragged. “Well?” He smiled knowingly.

“Um…” She averted her gaze and bit her lip.

“Even if you don’t say it out loud, I can tell from your body’s reaction to me.”

“That’s…”

“Should we try again so you can decide?”

“No… My body might react, but… what about my heart?” Other than it’s racing faster than ever right now…

“I only wanted to prove our chemistry; I’ll take my time winning your heart, as long as you’ll actually let me.”

“Actually?”

“You’re pretty resistant to the idea of being with me, but I can’t help but feel like that doesn’t have anything to do with me right now.” He released her and took a few steps back. “I think I’ve made my point…” He sighed, figuring he wasn’t going to make any more progress at the moment. “So, how about we eat dinner?”

I don’t have much of an appetite now… “Sure.”

---

Continued in chapter 11.

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.

---

Continued in chapter 10.

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.

---

Continued in chapter 9.