Episode 1
(Prologue)
At the Lobby of the Grand Hill Hotel, Jade stood donned in a red sexy, skimpy, long-sleeved gown, which she paired with a black strap heel, a black clutch and a pair of dropping earrings which matched perfectly with her silver bracelet. Her makeup was mild and natural, but she was the most beautiful girl at the hotel tonight.
She frantically paced about the lobby as she tried making up her mind to go in.
Beads of sweat broke out on her forehead as she kept pacing.
She was too lost in her thoughts to hear the guys whistling at her. Her actions tonight would either mar or make her…She desperately needed a sign to tell her what to do.
Jade jerked back to reality when her phone rang. She sighed deeply when she saw who was calling; this wasn’t the sign she needed. Maybe her mind was already made up. She reluctantly picked the call after its first ring.
“Jade, you’d better return home. I can tell you he isn’t worth it. Don’t do what will destroy you for good,” Her mother pleaded over the phone.
“Mother”, She called in a quiet and low voice. Why was her mother making things difficult for her? Yes, she asked for a sign. Isn’t this a good one?
“I know you love him, but you can’t ruin your life for him. Jade, please listen to mother, okay” Her mother continued pleading with a teary voice.
“Mother, I have to save him. I’m sorry,” Jade told her as her eyes turned misty with tears.
“If you dare, I’ll break all ties with you. Your father will roll in his grave for your foolishness,” She warned as she raised her voice. Maybe hopefully, threats might work.
“I’m sorry, mother”, Jade apologised before hanging up.
Her phone beeped suddenly, and she opened it to see a text from Cale. It read …
‘Save me, Jade, you’re all I have…I love you.’
She stared at the message for a couple of minutes. She has to do this; it’s for the man she loves.
She put her phone back into her purse, took a deep breath to calm her nerves as she turned and walked towards the elevator with her shoulders squared.
If this sacrifice would save her love, then she’d gladly do it.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 2
Episode 2
Pop music was blaring at the underground club of the grand Hills
hotel. This was the most exquisite and famous club for the rich young heirs and
heiresses in City Y. A place where one per cent of the one per cent indulged
their selves in all form of activities.
Ever in need of a club providing male and female bodily
services, here it was.
Jade walked into the club, which was reeking alcohol and other
stuff she couldn’t identify. She had almost turned around at this point as her
heart began to thump hard against her chest.
Her head felt heavy at the sound of loud music wafting from the
huge speakers.
She shook her head to discard every thought of cowardice as her
grip over her clutch tightened.
She took slow steps as she gently pushed through the crowd and
walked towards the bar.
“Hey! I need 3 shots of Aunt Roberta,” She yelled to
the bartender as the music was loud. She sat down on one of the high stools at
the bar as she scanned her eyes through the club.
“Here,” the bartender said as he served her order.
She turned and flashed the bartender a small smile before
gulping down a glass of Aunt Roberta.
“You might want to go easy…on that”, The bartender
advised as Jade dropped the first glass and picked up another. She gulped all
three glasses at a go.
“What?” She asked. She had missed what he said.
“Never mind,” He told her, yelling across the counter
so she could hear him.
“Hey, can you point me in the direction of a rich heir with
lots of money to spend?” She asked the bartender, who took a proper look
at her. He wasn’t surprised by her question because he heard it every other
day. He was tempted to reprimand her and advise her to go back home because she
looked too innocent, even though she was dressed to look the part. He had
worked here long enough to tell she didn’t belong there. But that wasn’t his
business.
His eyes scanned through the club and gazed in a particular
direction when his eyes found a suitable target seated at the VIP lounge just
above the dance floor. Jade followed his gaze and asked, “Him?” as
she pointed her chin at the person they were both looking at.
“Yes. If you get him, consider it your lucky day,” He
told her.
Jade looked at her target for a good few minutes before stepping
down from her stool. She took deep breaths to calm her not so nervous self,
thanks to Aunt Roberta.
“Thank you,” She said with a smile as she paid him and
sauntered to her target.
She slowly approached him as she looked at him thoroughly. She
was satisfied with his appearance; he definitely looked filthy rich…just the
right person she needs.
“Hey”, She greeted with a nervous smile when his hazel
brown eyes met with hers.
“I heard you had money to spend, and I’m just in need of
that cash. I’ll pay with my virginity. If you’re not pleased with me, I will let
you go… I’ll consider it my bad day. Here’s a medical report, I’m
disease-free. What do you say?” She said as she looked at him anxiously,
with an envelope in hand.
————————————–
*CITY Y AIRPORT*
Jake strolled out of the airport with his suitcase in one hand
and the other buried in his pocket. He had his dark sunglasses on, and he
looked handsome enough to make heads turn, and the ladies ogle at him.
He was jet-lagged after a 21-hour long flight. He felt exhausted
after working on the new software design for the company during his flight.
This was supposed to be his first project as the newly appointed CEO of
Acrosoft…a software company. He had been the president of the Company
overseas in the last five years since his father died, but he has recently been
appointed CEO since his grandfather retired a week ago.
He had brought the company to new heights even as the president
of Acrosoft. But as the new CEO, he had to solidify his capabilities in the
hearts of the board of directors and shareholders. He refused to be viewed as a
usurper with no capabilities, even though his abilities already convinced them
during his time as the president.
“Mr Jake”, The chauffeur greeted with a slight bow
before putting his suitcase in the trunk.
“It’s nice to have you back, sir,” The chauffeur said
with a small smile as he held the door for Jake.
“I can’t say it’s nice to be back”, He replied
indifferently before stepping into the car.
He turned on his phone which he had turned off due to flight protocols.
He smirked when he received a message from his little brother, Blake.
‘We’re waiting for you. You know where that is.’
All he needed at the moment was rest before calling the office.
He needed this project in motion as soon as possible. He had roughly sketched
out his ideas on his way back. He’d love to take full control of both the
design and programming department till this project was fully executed, as
errors and delays would never be condoned by him.
“Sir, are we heading home?”
“No. Grand Hills”, He replied.
Jake had only returned into the country and his crazy brother
was already on his case.
******
Jake had only stepped into the underground club when he heard
excited shrieks from all corners of the club.
It seems the ‘King of the club’ has returned.
Jake made his way to the VIP lounge, just above the dance floor,
where he had spotted his brother and a few familiar faces he was sure he has
never spoken to before.
“Bro, Welcome back,” Blake said with a toothy grin and
a half hug.
“You should be home taking care of grandfather,” Jake
said, pulling away from his silly younger brother while Blake scratched the
back of his neck.
“I have to welcome my big bro first, and grandfather
doesn’t mind,” Blake said cheerfully as he took his seat beside his brother.
Jake had only been seated for a few minutes when he saw a
beautiful girl dressed in a sexy red gown step into the club. Her shiny jet
black hair flowed freely, which made her look beautiful. Her heart-shaped face
was lightly made up, and her curves…were just in the right proportion, just
the way he liked it.
His gaze followed her as she weaved through the crowd and
approached the bar.
His lips curved slightly when she gulped down 3 glasses of
whatever she ordered—one word for her….’novice’.
He concluded she was either new to this, or there was something
she was trying to forget in the bottom of those shot glasses… whichever the
case was.
He was surprised when he saw her staring in his direction, and
her gaze met his. He was almost tempted to signal her over, but not tonight.
All he needed now was a good night sleep, so he would feel refreshed to start
working by morning.
He turned his gaze from her to listen to whatever his brother
was babbling to him about, but he couldn’t help but glance back at her. He
frowned slightly when he no longer found her by the bar.
Since he had promised to lay down his old habits, then he should
keep himself in check.
Jake was taken aback when a small, slender and dainty figure
appeared before him…it was the same girl he had just been staring at a while
ago.
He raised his gaze to her, and his heart nearly skipped a
beat…She looked even more beautiful than he had thought. Her sea-blue eyes
looked nervous than her body was.
“Hey”, She greeted with a nervous smile.
He wondered why she had suddenly approached him. He watched as
she brought out a white envelope from her purse and stretched it out to him,
“I heard you had money to spend, and I’m just in need of that cash. I’ll
pay with my virginity. If you’re displeased with me, I will let you go… I’ll
consider it my bad day. Here’s a medical report I’m disease-free. What do you
say?” She said as she looked at him anxiously.
He fell short of words and could only stare into her eyes like
he was in search of something.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 3
Episode 3
*GRAND HILLS CLUB*
Jade’s heart thumped widely against her chest, as his gaze pierced into her eyes. He just looked at her in silence.
She couldn’t make out why he kept staring at her silently. Maybe she had taken him by surprise or maybe he was angry, she couldn’t tell.
She feared being rejected by him because she wouldn’t know what to do if he did. From the bartender’s words, he seems to be the best there was. By best, she meant richest.
She had never thought a day like this would come when she would do something against her morals. But desperate times call for desperate measures.
She gazed at this man who was nearly casually dressed in a white shirt tucked over a black pair of trousers, which he wore with a pair of white sneakers. His dark-sleek hair was neatly combed, and a few stray strands pushed forward. She wouldn’t be wrong to say he looked beautiful, but his beauty was the least of her problems now.
She watched as the others seated around made mocking gestures at her.
“She must be bold to have approached Jake…especially when he just returned. Isn’t she being too overconfident?” a redhead girl at the table whispered to another girl seated by her side, but she was audible enough to Jade’s hearing.
“No one has ever done something like this. I’m sure Jake will reject her,” The other girl replied with an envious look in her eyes. They both eyed Jade angrily. They had both been sending body signals to Jake since he arrived, not minding their partners seated by their sides, but Jake hasn’t cast a single glance their way.
She heard all their snide remarks but chose to be unaffected by them.
She had a sole purpose for being there, and that was saving Cale…she had to. She’ll be damned if she’d let him die. She had to do all she could to save him, even if it meant selling her body to this man in front of her. She had never imagined giving up her innocence to any man other than Cale.
She had always fantasized about her first time with Cale after getting married, where she will give herself freely and wholly to him. But that wouldn’t be possible after tonight, but at least she’ll know this was all to save him.
If there had been better alternatives, she’d grasp it with both hands. She had only begun her internship at the company, so she couldn’t request advance pay, especially when her salary was barely enough to cater to her mother and brother.
Jade has always been sensitive and reciprocative towards people and feelings.
She kept looking at him anxiously with her hands still stretched. Mixed emotions of fear and confusion enveloped her, but she refused to give in to cowardice.
She felt hopeful when Jake reached for the envelope in her hands and took out the result in it. He quickly looked at it before raising his gaze to her again, which made her bite her bottom lip nervously.
She suddenly noticed a passionate look in his eyes. His eyes lit up with passion, and they made her shudder, and her knees felt weak. His hazel eyes concealed a lot of emotions inside them, emotions that shook her to the core.
*********
Jake was hesitant towards this; as a matter of fact, he felt like rejecting her. But his eyes kept wandering back to her. There was an internal war happening right inside of him every time he glanced at her. He seriously desired to rest so he’d have a clear head by morning, but something in him also wanted her. He knew he wanted her more than anything.
Jake was not only successful and rich, but he was also a fascinating man who looked more gorgeous than most women. It sounds unreal, but one would see him and say this was true. In addition, he was smart, intelligent, passionate and charismatic. Not just a few knew about it, but the whole country knew he was a playboy. He broke hearts at his wake and had no regard towards women except to use them to curb his sexual appetite…but that has never hindered his capabilities as a strategic visionary, or his ability to make perfect decisions under pressure, which has brought the company to its pinnacle of success.
He groaned inwardly when he saw her bite her nether lip. If Jake had been hesitant before, well, he wasn’t anymore. That single action has awoken the sleeping beast in him.
He took a quick look at her, gulped down his drink and jerked to his feet.
“Leave a car for me before you leave,” He said to no one in particular as he kept looking at Jade transfixed.
Obviously, it had to be Blake, who had been watching the spectacular scene unfold before him in surprise, and with his mouth gape. He had for a moment there thought Jake might turn her down, but he also knew his brother too well. The guy would never say no to an opportunity of getting laid.
Jake suddenly pulled her by the hand and said, “Let’s go” as he led her out of the club.
Jade’s heart skipped a beat when Jake grabbed her hand and said, “Let’s go” those words kept resounding in her head.
She lowered her eyes to his hand, holding hers while he gently led her out of the club. She felt like breaking free from his hold, but something kept her in place as she obediently let him lead her out.
Jade kept looking at her hand locked in his as different thoughts ran through her mind. Uncertainty pricked every fibre of her being. She was deeply lost in thoughts and had no idea when she walked into the elevator. She could tell they were moving up and her heart rate increased rapidly because she knew what this meant.
Jake glanced at her and saw her in a daze. His eyes fell on her red painted lips, which looked full and pillowy. He didn’t know if it was the colour of her lipstick or just her lips that made him want to kiss her senseless. He diverted his gaze from them and noticed how her gaze was fixed to their hands.
Jade jerked back to reality when the elevator chimed on arrival, and Jake gently pulled her out as they walked towards one of the suite’s doors. Jake pulled out a key card which made Jade wonder when he had gotten it…but she couldn’t let that bother her. She had to prepare herself both mentally and emotionally for what was about to happen.
He keyed in the card and walked into the luxurious suite with his hand still holding hers before finally letting go.
Jade would have been super excited had it been another day. She definitely would have taken pictures of this suite if the situation had been a little different. But today was different. Because today nothing mattered.
“You should use the bathroom first,” Jake told her calmly as he walked to the bedroom.
“That won’t be necessary”, Jade replied in a small voice, still standing on the same spot, while Jake turned to look at her.
“Come closer,”
Jade lifted her gaze to him, and her heart rate skyrocketed when she saw the desire in his eyes. He looked at her like a meal he so wanted to ravish.
She had never felt so uncertain in her life as she felt that very moment. She had come here fully prepared, but now, every bit of courage she had mustered up had totally disappeared.
She had heard him say ‘come closer, but her feet felt rooted to the ground. Her body felt unyielding.
Jake could sense her nervousness; a slight frown flashed across his face when he noticed her unwillingness. ‘Could it really be her first time? That’s strange. Didn’t she approach him by herself?’
He obviously did not believe her words about paying him with her innocence. Weren’t ladies like herself always putting up such acts? Tsk…he has seen enough of her kind.
He looked at those set of blue eyes that were looking at him like they were communicating something to him…something he didn’t understand.
He slowly walked closer as he tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ears.
He didn’t know what was happening to him, but this lady was messing up his senses. Jake lifted her chin with his thumb and looked at those red lustrous lips, which were very tempting, making him lick his bottom lip hungrily.
Jade stood transfixed as her gaze met his. She tried to look away, but the harder she tried, the more she couldn’t. Those hazel eyes shined brightly like you could see the world through them.
Jake took a step closer and covered the space between them. Jade wanted to take a step back in fright, but something about his eyes kept her in place as he slowly lowered his lips and covered hers.
Jade’s body stiffened when his lips touched hers. Her body jerked slightly when he slipped his hand around her svelte waist.
Jake saw a mess of emotions in her blue eyes. If it had been any other woman, he’d walk her out. But he just wanted to pacify all her wrecking nerves so that he could have her right now.
“Shhh”, He hushed softly and seductively as he slowly pats her hair, which made Jade’s shoulders slouch involuntarily. Jade couldn’t make sense of what was happening to her.
Jake pulled her closer to him once more and directly went in for her lips…those lips that had been tormenting him all night. He put his hands around her as he deepened the kiss and drew in her scent. It wasn’t perfume, but whatever it was, felt soothing to him.
Jade stood still with her hands to her side as Jake feasted on her lips like a hungry man. There was something about this kiss, his kiss, that made her feel he shouldn’t stop….it simply felt different. Different from the ones she had shared with Cale.
Cale was the reason she was doing this. She closed her eyes to push the thought of Cale out of her mind if she didn’t want to bolt and take to her heels. If she really wanted to do this, then she had to be here and play along. Jake smirked in his mind when she suddenly returned his kiss. This caused a wave of excited emotions inside of him, his hands moving all over her body.
Jade slowly raised her hands and placed them around him, which made Jake lift her off the floor, take her to the room, and place her on the bed.
“Wait!” Jade said when she heard that familiar ring tone designated for Cale before pushing the heavy built man laying on her as she jumped off the bed.
Jade whipped out her phone from her purse, which she had earlier dropped on the floor. Her hands trembled when Cale’s name was displayed on the screen. Only one thought passed through her mind.
‘I hope nothing happened to him.’
“Jade… where are you?” A voice cried over the phone as soon as she answered. Jade’s heart fell through when she heard Mrs Stuart voice.
“Mom?” She called out in fear. She didn’t want to hear what she most feared.
Helen Stuart was Cale’s adoptive mother, who was highly fond of Jade and saw her as her own daughter. She loved Jade like her own and could only wish Jade and her son would end up together soon.
“Jade…It’s Cale,” Mrs Stuart said as she cried hysterically.
Jade stiffened at her words. Her heart constricted tightly.
“What…happened to Cale?” She asked in a small voice, almost in a whisper, but her fears were evident in it.
“The doctor said he had a hypovolemic shock because his kidney is bleeding out. He needs surgery immediately, but..but Jade, we still don’t have the money,” She said as she continued crying.
“Money? I’ll send the money to you right away,” She said as she slowly turned to a red-faced Jake before turning her back to him again.
“How will you..” Helen tried saying, but Jade cut in.
“Get the doctors to save him. Nothing will happen to him. He’ll be fine,” She said convincingly, not so sure if she was actually trying to convince herself or Cale’s mom.
“Okay…Thank you, Jade,” Mrs Stuart said in light sobs before disconnecting the call. Jade stood fixed to the same spot with the phone to her ear. She was scared by Mrs Stuart words over the phone. ‘Cale, you better not die on me’, she said in her heart.
She was startled when she felt a warm pair of hands on her arms, which slowly turned her around, “Can I please have the money now. I’m definitely not leaving tonight, but…can I get it first?” She said softly without meeting his gaze. She was too embarrassed with herself to look at him.
Jake looked at her for a split second; her eyes seemed sad, and he didn’t know why that was. And he also didn’t know why she bothered him this much.
He pulled out his phone and opened his banking app, “Here, put in your bank details and the amount you’d like”, Jake said, handing the phone to her.
Jade slowly reached out for it and put in the right details and the amount she needed to save Cale. She looked at the phone for a while before handing it back. She looked at the amount she had put in; it was not a single cent more than required.
That was the cost of her body…her love. She shook her head lightly to take such derailing thoughts out of her head. She had to believe she was doing this for the right cause.
Jade confirmed the transaction, which he showed to her. He looked at her and their gaze met.
“So, can I have you now?” He asked in a husky voice, making Jade bit her lips as she responded with a simple nod, her heart racing frantically.
Episode 4
She was startled when she felt a warm pair of hands on her arms, which slowly turned her around, “Can I please have the money now. I’m definitely not leaving tonight, but…can I get it first?” She said softly without meeting his gaze. She was too embarrassed with herself to look at him.
Jake looked at her for a split second; her eyes seemed sad, and he didn’t know why that was. And he also didn’t know why she bothered him this much.
He pulled out his phone and opened his banking app, “Here, put in your bank details and the amount you’d like”, Jake said, handing the phone to her.
Jade slowly reached out for it and put in the right details and the amount she needed to save Cale. She looked at the phone for a while before handing it back. She looked at the amount she had put in; it was not a single cent more than required.
That was the cost of her body…her love. She shook her head lightly to take such derailing thoughts out of her head. She had to believe she was doing this for the right cause.
Jade confirmed the transaction, which he showed to her. He looked at her and their gaze met.
“So, can I have you now?” He asked in a husky voice, making Jade bit her lips as she responded with a simple nod, her heart racing frantically.
“You won’t hold back again?” He asked huskily as he took a step closer and raised her chin with his finger, and she nodded again.
His eyes looked deep into hers like he was a search of a mythical treasure.
“I want to kiss you till we both run out of breath and you can’t keep up”, He whispered into her ears before looking back at her. He brushed her lower lip with his thumb, prompting her to purse her lips.
Jade’s eyes suddenly fell on his thin, firm lips as he leaned in and kissed her softly, with his hands snaking around her waist and pulling her closer against him.
There it was again, the kiss of this stranger that felt so right ….so good.
Jade slowly wrapped her hands around his waist and let him kiss her. She surrendered to his kiss because she knew no other way. She wanted to be repulsed by it, but she repulsed herself more for liking every bit of it. He devoured her lips like his life depended on it.
Jake deepened the kiss as he moved his hands over Jade’s body. The body that felt right in his arms. Jade let out a soft moan which heightened Jake’s desires as he pushed her into the bed.
He slowly lowered his body to the bed as he took off her shoes one after the other while stealing glances at her. She looked so beautiful with her eyes tightly closed.
Jake began to plant kisses on her legs as he slowly moved upwards to her thighs, making Jade quiver involuntarily.
He smirked when he noticed how naive her body was. He headed for her lips to calm her down. He held her hands over her head as he kissed her breathless with no second to breathe. She arched her back when he nipped her jaw, her neck and her ears. His hands didn’t miss a beat in sliding down and searching for the zip of her dress. His moves were smooth as he let her out of her dress deftly.
“You have a beautiful body,” He said in a deep sexy voice between raspy breaths, as his eyes lustfully followed through every curve of her body. Jake bit his lips sexily as he filled his eyes with her gorgeous body.
Jade couldn’t control the sudden pounding of her heart as she laid on the bed watching Jake take off his clothes, revealing a well-built body, which he had chiselled by working out.
From his gait, she had earlier guessed that he worked out. Jade’s heart thumped wildly as Jake’s dark eyes remained on her as he stripped himself bare. Her eyes followed his sculpted waist and narrowed hips that were rippling with strong muscles as he lowered his body on hers. She could feel the warm, smooth glide of his skin on his muscled shoulders and chest, the weight of his tall broad from over her body.
She shuddered underneath him as his hands moulded around the swell of her breast as he squeezed on them. His mouth followed the trail of her exposed body until he freed her breasts from the restraints of her lace bra.
Jade’s mind went blank under the scorching gaze of his hazel eyes, which was erupting a flare of fire on her skin as his mouth brushed through her body to her hardened nipples.
She subconsciously raked her hands through his dark brown hair. She gripped the sheets tightly at the different sensations soaring through her every nerve fibre.
Jade bit her lips in embarrassment at every moan that slipped through her lips, but she couldn’t hold back because she was too far gone. She tried telling herself that this was just business and nothing pleasurable, but her body responded otherwise.
Jade felt like passing out on all these feelings….feelings she never knew actually existed. He reached for something in the side drawer…protection.
He came back up and held her in place before hugging and kissing her again. Jake took a quick look at Jade, whose eyes were tightly closed. He was overwhelmed with the outburst of hormones in his body at the sight of this woman, and that’s when he pushed inside her breaking all her barriers, making her groan in pain as she tightly gripped on the sheets with her toes digging onto the bed.
Jade winced in pain but promptly forgot about it when Jake kissed her deeply as he slightly pulled out of her. Reducing the intensity of his thrust, Jade clamped her legs around him, giving him full access to her. What followed was a slow yet most sensually and pleasurable overwhelming sensation she’d ever felt.
Jake was demanding but gentle as he coaxed her to her own release before his.
He collapsed down on her after their moment of ecstasy, panting breathlessly as Jade slowly fell asleep.
‘Damn! that was good’ he said in his head.
___________
*The next morning*
Jade opened her eyes groggigly as the bright lights assaulted her eyes. She slowly sat up as she winced at the sudden surge of pain she felt from her lower region.
Her eyes glistened with tears when she remembered everything that happened last night and the pain she was feeling at the moment. She hated herself so much not for what she had done, but for enjoying every piece of that godforsaken act. She covered her face with both her palms as she felt disgusted by herself.
How could she have betrayed her emotions this way. Everything about last night was so wrong but somewhere in her heart they felt so right. The feelings she felt last night felt surreal…It was the best feeling she’s ever had. But she hated herself for thinking it felt good.
She turned to the side of the bed to find it empty and a tear drop rolled down her cheeks. She felt so dirty. She couldn’t place the feeling she had at that moment, all she wanted was to wash all this away. She felt like tearing each layer of her skin away.
“You should go wash up first…I got you a change of clothe” Jake said pointing at a beautiful sundress lying on the sofa. She was startled when she heard that familiar voice as she turned to her side to see Jake sitting on the sofa, staring at her. She couldn’t look away as they stared back at each other in silence with various thoughts running through their minds.
Her gaze was stirring up a sea of emotions in his heart which he never knew he could feel. There was a sense of serenity about her. He felt emotions which has never been explored by him.
“Thanks…but I can’t accept anything else” Jade said breaking the awkward silence between them as she wrapped herself with the quilt and got up from the bed. She picked up her clothes before heading to the bathroom. She needs to leave this god forsaken place. She needs to rid herself of this complex feelings she was having.
Jake stared at her back as she made her way into the bathroom. He felt a pang of guilt hit him in his chest when he saw those tears slipped down her cheeks. His hands wanted to wipe away those tears running down her cheeks. He saw nothing but pain reflecting in those blue eyes. She meant nothing to him but her tears shook him to the core.
Jade stood before the huge mirror that hung in the bathroom. She couldn’t hold her tears from falling freely as she scrouched down on the bathroom floor, with her head resting on knees.
Her emotions were complicated at the moment. How could she have moaned at the touch of another man other than cale? How did she let herself respond to his every move and touch on her? Why did her heart feel torn?
Everything that happened last night felt wrongfully right. How could something so wrong also feel so right? She despised herself for ever thinking it felt good.
She pulled herself together as she stood up and looked at the mirror. Her eyes fell on her lips as a memory of Jake’s kiss flashed through her mind making her bite her lips in anger and embarrassment.
She splashed some water on her face before fixing herself up. She took a deep breath and walked out of the bathroom.
Jake who was still sitting on the same spot raised his head when he heard her walk out of the bathroom. She looked a bit more composed but her eyes were still as sad as they looked when she walked into the bathroom minutes ago. He could tell she had cried in there, because her eyes looked starked red.
Somehow his heart wanted to apologize and console her. He didn’t know why he had waited for her to wake up when he had woken up hours ago. He had wanted to leave, but he found himself ordering a dress for her.
He had several one night stands with ladies. But this…this just felt different…too different.
Jade cleared her throat awkwardly before saying, “I’m sorry about last night” She apologized due to lack of what to say.
“I hope our paths end here” She added with a bow before picking up her purse as she turned and left without giving Jake a second look.
Jake stared in her direction for quite some time as he sat still. Something in him wanted to call her back but he just couldn’t move. He could still smell her presence, that soft and soothing smell that sprung a myriad of emotions in him.
Maybe this was fate. Maybe he was meant to have just one night with this woman that unearthened his deepest feelings. Sometimes things were meant to happen this way.
.
.
Question: Ladies in the house, can you sacrifice yourself like this to save the man you love?
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 5
Episode 5
Jade slowly walked into the house to find her mother sitting on the couch waiting for her return. She noticed the deep scowl plastered on her face. Her face was drawn and red in anger. It looked like she had waited all night for her return.
Jade cautiously walked closer in small steps. She didn’t know how to face her mother. She had not only disappointed her mother, but she has also disregarded everything her mother had taught her while bringing her up.
“Good morn…” Jade’s greeting got stucked in her throat as her mother raised a hand to stop her.
“Mom…I’m sorry” Jade said with her head lowered. She was too afraid to look up at her.
She was shocked when her mother threw a slap across her face. She raised her hand to touch her palm printed cheek which was gradually swelling. A tear slipped down her cheeks, not for the fact her mother had hit for the first time, but for the fact that she deserved it.
“I didn’t give birth to a child who could easily sell her body” Jade’s mother said as her body shook in anger.
“I didn’t raise a foolish child, Jade. My daughter is a smart and beautiful girl who deserves the world, not a girl who threw herself in the bed of a random man she didn’t know all in the name of love and money. You Jade,….you broke my heart. You shamed my upbringing. I hope he’s worth it” She said with teary eyes before walking past Jade.
She wanted to understand how Jade felt, but she couldn’t. She was disappointed. She wanted to console her child and cry with her because she knew how Jade was feeling right now.
Jade was her child. A sweet and innocent child she’d give the world to if she could. But she just couldn’t stand to look at her right now. Maybe later she would help her get through this, but definitely not right now. She felt suffocated. She looked at her palm which she had used to hit her child and her heart ached. She regretted hitting Jade for the first time. And that sick Cale had better be worth her child’s sacrifice or else…
Jade stood at the same spot she had been standing earlier still holding her cheek. Tears flowed freely down her face. She had hurt her mother, broke her trust and pride. She hated herself even more. But what was she supposed to do, when the man she loved was dying. She’d do the same had it been her mother. But how could she still live with herself after this. How will she tell Cale, that she had slept with another man for money to save him. He’ll be hurt, but she hopes he gets to forgive her and not resent her.
She wouldn’t know how to live if he hates her after this.
Jade jerked back to reality when her phone started ringing. She quickly answered it when she saw it was Helen, Cale’s mother calling. She had come home to freshen up before leaving for the hospital to check up on Cale.
“Hello Jade” Helen called in a lively voice. Jade let out the breath she didn’t know she had been holding when she heard Mrs Stuart voice…She was sounding like her usual self and that could only mean one thing.
“Mom”
“Jade where are you? Cale just regained conciousness. Hurry down here okay” She said excitedly.
“Okay mom. I’ll be there soon” She replied. She felt a weight has been taken off her shoulders. Her man was alive.
*******
Jake hurried home so he could refresh himself before heading for the office. But what he really wanted was to see his grandfather. He walked into his grandfather’s room after knocking on the door.
He stood by the door as he greeted with a bow, “Grandfather” making his grandfather humphed, shooting him a mock-digusting look.
“What woman grazed your bed last night, you rascal” Grandfather Beau asked his grandson as he took off the automated sphygmanometer from his arm.
“Grandfather you haven’t been spying on me have you?” Jake asked his grandfather not denying the fact that he had spent the night with a woman.
“Do I really need to do that?” Grandfather Beau asked eyeing Jake. Wasn’t it obvious only a woman could keep his grandson from spending the night at home on his first day back in to the country. He sighed at the thought that this grandson of his might not change anytime soon.
“You should go take a shower, you look like you had it rough” He said with a deeper meaning, making Jake roll his eyes at him. His grandfather shouldn’t give him that look, wasn’t it obvious he got his traits from him.
“Jake be careful at the office. Hillary’s back” Grandfather Beau warned, as a dark glint flashed across Jake’s eyes.
___________
Jade arrived at the hospital, but she stood at the lobby in a daze, not sure on how to face Cale. What should be her reply if he’d asked her how she got the money for his surgery. How would she look Cale in the face and still tell him she was all his, after sharing a bed with an unknown man. A man she didn’t even know his name. A man whose every kiss and touch made her feel different and plead for more.
All she wanted at this moment was to see Cale’s face and make sure he was fine, but she was too scared to. Too scared to lose him when he discovers what she had done. Though she had done it for him, but it’s only natural for him to feel hurt.
“Jade?” Mrs Stuart nudged Jade by the side, when she got tired of calling her. Jade was startled at the sudden jab she felt on her side. She turned her head to the side to see Mrs Stuart frowning at her.
“Good morning Mom” Jade greeted with a curt bow.
“Why were you so lost in thought?” Mrs Stuart asked Jade curiously. She had been calling her, but she didn’t get a response.
“Nothing. I was just worried about Cale. How is he doing?” Jade asked trying to change the topic and Mrs Stuart didn’t miss this. But she also didn’t push it.
“He’s fine all thanks to you. I’m so grateful to you Jade. You saved Cale at the nick of time. Thank you” Mrs Stuart said with a genuine expression.
“You don’t have to thank me. We both love him, so it’s only natural for us to do the best we could for him” Jade said feeling somewhat embarrassed over Mrs Stuart appreciation. She didn’t think it was necessary for her to do that.
“Jade, do you mind telling me how you got the money?” Mrs Stuart asked Jade the question that had tugged on her heart all night. She hoped Jade had not gone to a loan shark for help. She feared those kind of people were highly dangerous, and she didn’t want any sort of harm to come to her.
Jade was shocked by Mrs Stuart sudden question. Though she had been expecting it, but Mrs Stuart was a bit too abrupt about it. Couldn’t she have waited a bit?
Jade darted her eyes back and front as she racked her brain for a believable lie.
“I…I got a loan from Amy and her…cousin” Jade said stutteringly, making Mrs Stuart stare at her doubfully. Jade has always been a bad liar, and she was oblivious to the fact that her eyes darts and her nose turns red when she tells a lie. Mrs Stuart concluded Jade did not want to tell her about it, so she didn’t push it. She only prays Jade doesn’t get into trouble. Because she wouldn’t want Jade to be hurt because of this.
“Tell me when the loan is due for payment. I’ll love to help pay it back”
“No! It’s fine, I can handle it” Jade refuted.
“Jade I’m not asking you. Help me give this to Cale. I’ll be in the doctors office briefly. And cheer up, Cale is fine” Mrs Stuart said with a small smile as she patted Jade on her shoulders and handed her a small nylon bag before leaving.
Jade took a deep breathe before making her way to Cale’s room.
*******
“I’m so thankful you’re alive” A female voice sobbed in one of the hospital rooms, as she sat beside the bed with her head resting on Cale’s chest.
“Come on baby, you don’t have to cry. Am I not fine now?” Cale replied as he consoled the crying beauty, slowly patting her hair.
“I was so scared. I didn’t know what to do. What would I have done if I’d lost you” She continued in sobs as she covered her face with her palm.
“C’mon everything is fine now. Just stop crying. I hate to see you cry” He comforted her as she bobbed her head and wiped her tears.
“Now that you’re fine. We should hasten our plans to get married okay? My father will be back soon and he’s asking us to get married as soon as possible” She said as her eyes lit up.
“Okay that’ll be great. I can’t wait to make you all mine” He said with a small smile as he moved slowly from the bed to plant a kiss on her lips.
…
Married? Did someone say ‘married’? Was she standing in front of the wrong room? But why did those voices sound familiar. She definitely knew those voices. Why was her heart racing at the sound of their voices? Why were they talking about getting married? There had to be some sort of misunderstanding somewhere.
.
.
Are you feeling the heat?
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 6
Episode 6
Jade stood outside the room with complex emotions as her hand rested on the door knob.
She looked at the room number again just to be sure she was standing in front of the right room. ‘121’, that’s the right room number. Then why did it seem like she had heard Cale saying something about getting married?
Jade slowly opened the door, she was death struck by the sight of Cale kissing that familiar blonde hair woman. She felt like she was frozen. A shiver ran down her spine. She didn’t understand what was happening right now.
‘Why was Cale kissing his Cousin? Wasn’t Stephanie supposed to be his cousin? So why were they kissing so passionately?’ Her heart was contracting too fast and too tight. She felt like she couldn’t breath as her chest rose high.
“Ca..Cale?” She called out in a quavery voice. Cale pulled away from the kiss but he wasn’t fast enough for Jade to have missed him kissing ‘her’.
Cale was shocked to see her standing by the door. He almost hit himself for being found out by Jade. He had thought she’d be at work and would only drop by later. Who would have thought…
Jade slowly took a few steps into the room as she looked from Cale to Stephanie “Cale…why were… you kissing your cousin?” Jade asked with difficulty as her voice quavered and her eyes slowy turned red. She didn’t know why she still asked such a rhetorical question. Maybe she wanted to know if he had lied to her about Stephanie being his cousin or this was incest.
Jade stood there like she was glued to the floor. Her eyes couldn’t believe what just happened in front of her.
She had come to take care of him and here he was kissing his ‘cousin’
“What cousin?” Mrs Stuart asked when she walked into the room and over heard Jade say ‘cousin’. She had a frown on her face as she was confused about what was happening. When did Cale have a cousin? Her frown deepened when she saw Jade’s expression that looked like her world was crumbling down on her. Jade had heard her voice but she was too distorted to look at her right now.
Jade looked at Cale intently expecting some kind of answer that would make her believe what she had just seen wasn’t real. Something like, Stephanie took advantage of his sick predicament and forced herself on him. She wanted him to say something, anything at all. Anything that would make her feel she had misunderstood him.
Sometimes when we’re in love, we’d rather believe the lies than face the truth even when it’s staring at us right in the face, just because we don’t want to lose the other person.
“Jade is not what you think” Cale tried explaining guiltily as Stephanie sat down with a smug smile on her face, looking pleased with the turn of event. She had not expected Jade to walk in on them, but she had hoped Jade would be in the know about her relationship with Cale. She had thought of ways of revealing their relationship to Jade, but it seems she didn’t have to do anything anymore. Mrs Stuart observed the smug look on Stephanie and she got an inkling of what the commotion was all about.
“You!! get.out!” Mrs Stuart said to Stephanie as her eyes flashed red in anger. Stephanie shuddered at Mrs Stuart out burst. She gave Jade a last look that interpreted, ‘I’m not sorry about this’ before stepping out of the room.
Jade felt like the room was spinning at the moment. ‘Its not what you think? Isn’t that the typical guy excuse when they got caught?’ She had hoped for something better. Something better than that statement of guilt.
What was she suppose to think, when her man was kissing his supposed cousin. She saw the pleading and guilty look Cale was shooting at her, and it made her feel worse.
She felt like dying at the spot she stood. She felt crushed to dust. She saw her man embracing another girl and kissing her so passionately. And he was expecting her to think what?
A tear rolled down her cheek.
Cale felt a pang of guilt in his heart when he saw Jade’s broken expression. He felt bad for seeing her like this. He had messed up, and he knew it. Jade had been a sweet girl. She had loved him a bit too much.
Jade unconciously took a step back. She didn’t want to hear any explanations anymore. She held her tears at bay, as she dropped the nylon bag and bowed to Mrs Stuart who was equally broken by all this before dashing out of the room.
Mrs Stuart had never expected her son to treat Jade this way, like she meant nothing to him. She shoot a dissappointed look at her son and said, “She didn’t deserve this. And you don’t deserve her”.
_____
Jade felt like she had been running because she was short of breath, but she had only walked out of the hospital.
Her spirit felt crushed and shattered in a million pieces….She took in deep breaths, trying to control her emotions and compose herself, but she was failing miserably at it.
She was desperate to be alone. She wanted to go somewhere, anywhere other than here. She continued sprinting out of the lobby of the hospital when she accidentally bumped against someone.
His built was solid…rock like, she staggered back a few steps when his hands suddenly held her steady. His savoury fragrant smell seeped through her nose to her olfactory nerve and her brain decoded that familiar smell. But she was too distressed to be bothered by it.
“I’m sorry” She said with her head lowered before dashing out of the hospital.
She hailed down a taxi and plopped down on the sit, before realizing she had nowhere to go. She didn’t know what to do, or where to go at the moment. She couldn’t go home now, and her mother was still very much vexed at her. The last thing she needed was the ‘i told you so’ sermon for her mother. Jade gasped for air for a while and she tried hard to control her tears, but she caved in.
The taxi driver had asked for her destination a couple of times but got no reply. He had only started driving when Jade asked him to stop, making him frown. He noticed her miserable countenance and he felt sympathetic towards her.
She felt she had ran out of air as she hurriedly jumped out of the cab. She couldn’t breath, her lungs felt deflated. Her chest greatly tightened, making her hit on it. She had never experienced an heart attack but whatever she was feeling now, felt like it. She tried to restrain the tears prickling her eyes but they flowed out freely.
She wanted to be alone, to hide from the eyes of people who will pity her. She needed to find a place where she could unburden her tears from her prying eyes.
Her heart squeezed her tightly, making her pound on it forcefully.
What sort of betrayal was this? Never did she think that she’d suffer betrayal and heart break most especially from the man she had loved with her all.
She stood dazed on the walkway when it suddenly started raining. How pitiful was she now, that even the heavens had began to weep for her? Could this day be any worse?
She raised her face to the sky as the rain trickled down on her face. Jade was torn inside out. She felt like she was been trampled on, because every part of her body was shaking. She didn’t notice neither did she mind the attention she was drawing to herself at the moment, must especially from the piercing eyes of the man she bumped into.
‘In what way did her love lack?’ Has she not given her all? Where had she gone wrong? How could she let her self be fooled for so long?’ a Plethora of such depressing questions seeped through her mind.
She felt like walking but found herself running as it rained heavily. She ran till her legs felt sore. She was drenched in the rain and no matter how cold it was, she felt her body was ablaze. She crouched down down and screamed her lungs out. She screamed till her throat became sore and her voice lost.
What was the meaning of her sacrifice? She had given up herself, broke her mother’s heart, disregarded her brother’s plea to love Cale cautiously. But she had been so foolish thinking her world revolved around him. She had loved him with no reserve.
Jade had met Cale in high school where she had crushed on him for the longest of time. He was the high school popular Jock, who was popular with the girls and was amazingly good looking. They had only started dating in their second year in college. She had given her all in this undeserving relationship. She worked part time all through school just to assist Cale. She had tried pleasing him by doing chores for him daily. He had gotten his current Job all thanks to her.
What had she not done? Helping him study, helped him with his assignments, written his fucking thesis, prepared every presentation PowerPoint and reviews for him. She had loved his friends and family unreservably and continuously put in her best into the relationship.
Many times she had fantasied about getting married to him, their wedding night and also about popping mini Cale’s and Jade’s for him. But why was this the result of her love?
How did she go wrong? In what way was she not deserving of his love?
What was the meaning of her sacrifice?
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 7
Episode 7
Jake was unhappy about Hillary’s return. He kept pondering on what her motive for returning might be. This was all his father’s fault. He didn’t just die but he left alot of problems behind for him to fix, and Hillary was one of those problems.
He got himself ready and left for work. Today will be his first day to officially resume his office as the new CEO. He had alot of things planned out for the day, from board meetings to project reviews and also the initiation of his new security software project. He had to come up with a flawless plan to convince the board of directors to go with his idea, since this was a little bit off the chart.
Jake had only arrived the company, but was yet to alight his car when he received a call from his grandfather’s butler, making him frown. Hasn’t he just left the house, why was he calling now?
“Sir, you have to hurry back. Something just happened to your grandfather” The butler hurriedly said over the phone, making Jake’s heart skip a beat.
“What?” Jake asked in shock and surprise. What could have happened in 20 minutes?
“Have you called the ambulance?” Jake asked as he signalled the driver to turn the car around. He didn’t need a psychic to tell him what the butler had meant.
“Yes. He’s being taken to the Hospital” The butler replied in a worried tone.
“What happened to him?” Jake had seen him taking his pills and checking his blood pressure this morning, so what could have happened in such a little time? He had given specific orders to the staff not to trigger his grandfather into having a relapse, so what the fuck had happened now!? This was the reason why his grandfather had resigned.
“It was Madam Hillary. She had come over and they both had a fight just after you left” He explained while Jake clenched his hand into a fist.
Hillary was really asking for it. Why has she decided to plaque the Beau family with her presence. Wasn’t she a widow with a hand full of shares already, then what was her fucking problem?
He was going to ‘take care’ of her. Enough of his grandfather keeping him at bay in all this.
Jake jumped out of the car as soon as he arrived the hospital. He hoped nothing serious happened to his grandfather because he’d kill that hateful stepmother of his. Hurting his grandfather or his brother was his bottom line and Hillary just dared him.
He hurried to the emergency room in long strides where he saw his grandfather lying still on the bed with a drip line. His heart ached at the sight of his parched lips and pale face. He wasn’t used to seeing his grandfather like this. He took a seat by the bed as he carefully observed his face and held his free hand in his.
He turned when he felt someone coming behind him. He sighed when he saw it just the doctor. For a moment there, he wished it had been Hillary, he’d love to throw her down a flight of stairs.
“He’s stable” The doctor assured him when he saw Jake’s worried look. “He had an heart attack but thankfully he wasn’t too serious. I advice he should be kept away from things that may stress him out. Having congestive heart failure and angina in one heart is a big mix. So he has to be careful. Make sure he doesn’t get worked up, both physically and emotionally” The doctor adviced as Jake simply nodded.
Jake watched as they wheeled his grandfather to a private room. It was only then he remembered he had to inform his brother, Blake, about this and also ask his secretary to reschedule his meetings for the day.
Jake frowned when he couldn’t find his phone. He sighed when he realized that it might be in the car and he walked out to the car to go get it, since his driver was still waiting in the car.
He had only taken a few steps back into the lobby of the hospital when a slender body bumped into him. He was startled and his phone almost slipped off his hands, but he had good reflex as he gripped his phone tightly and also held her steady when she staggered back.
Jake was taken aback when he raised his gaze and saw the familiar dainty figure, that he was yet to take out of his mind….the same lady he had spent a night with. He had never expected to see her again, but even if he did, he didn’t expect it to be so soon. She looked extremely sad and distressed.
He saw her lips quiver as she apologized, “I’m sorry” with her head lowered before sprinting out of the hospital.
His eyes were fixed on her as she hurried out of sight. Something about her didn’t feel right. Nothing about this didn’t feel right. He couldn’t help but follow behind. And why? He didn’t know.
Jake watched as Jade hopped into a cab. He had almost smacked himself for impulsively following her, but he suddenly notice the cab stopped and Jade stepped out.
Something in his heart gripped him tightly when he saw her pounding on her chest hardly like she was suffocating.
Earlier when she had bumped into him, he had noticed her red starked eyes and quavering lips.
He felt a pang in his heart and the desire to hug and console. He didn’t know why she was hurting so badly and he could feel his heart hurt too.
He watched all her reactions from where he stood at the entrance of the hospital.
Jake was tempted to go pull her to shelter when it started raining and to his surprise she suddenly took to her heels. He frowned when she started running like her life depended on it. Why is she running under the rain? Whatever was bothering her couldn’t be that serious that she’d neglect her health right?
Jake didn’t like this at all. Why was he so bothered about this woman, when he had spent several nights with other women. He didn’t know why he kept feeling this way towards her, and these feelings were pissing him off but he couldn’t help it.
He contemplated going back to his grandfather when he suddenly found himself walking towards the car.
“Get down” He said to his driver before hopping into the driver’s seat as he drove in Jade’s direction and slowly followed her behind. His frown deepened when she finally crouched down by a lonely and isolated path before screaming her lungs out as tears glided down her face.
Jake stared sadly at Jade as she cried her heart out. Several thoughts ran through his mind as he stared at her from his car.
‘Did she lose a loved one? Had she slept with him because she needed money to save a family member? He felt guilty at the thought of that.
He remembered she had received a call last night before requesting for the money. Could she had given up her innocence to him because she had no other way out? If that was the case, then he’d hate himself for being insensitive.
Jake had always been sensitive and reciprocative towards people and their feelings, but had he behaved differently last night. He hissed frustratedly at all his thoughts. He looked at the back seat and found an umbrella, which he picked up before stepping out of his car. He couldn’t sit and watch her cry helplessly under the rain.
*********
Jade couldn’t control her emotions as she continued to cry. Cale had broken her heart so bad that it felt she had died a thousand times over.
What hurt her the most was not the years she had slaved away in trying to be a befitting girlfriend to him, but the fact that he had made her do favours for his ‘supposed cousin’ who he had been planning to get married to.
Maybe it would have hurt less if he had just broken up with her…. or maybe not.
The memories of what happened at the hospital kept haunting her. She remembered her mother’s words to her this morning ‘I hope he’s worth it’. Tears streamed down her cheeks when she thought about how she had sold herself to a stranger just to save that ungrateful bastard. The pain was too hard to bear.
Jade continued to sob when suddenly she observed she could no longer feel the drops of rain on her head anymore. She slowly raised her head up and saw an umbrella over her head. She lowered her head and turned to see who it was.
She was taken aback when she saw Jake. Her heart missed a beat at the sight of him. She had not expected him to be here. As a matter of factly he was the last person she had expected or wanted to see.
Wasn’t this a reminder of her shameful act, her betrayal? Why was the heaven punishing her in such a way? Beads of tears fell down as she looked up at Jake silently. She wish she could just disappear.
Jake’s heart clenched tightly as her tears slipped down. He noticed her chapped lips and the goosebumps on her arm, which was due to the weather. ‘Why is she wearing so little?’ Jake frowned slightly before drapping his suit jacket over her.
Jade looked at his jacket over her shoulders and she felt like taking it off her and giving it back to him, but the looks from Jake’s eyes kept her still.
Jake kept looking at her, she looked too broken and crushed. Her gaze was empty, more like lifeless. He wanted to comfort her and tell her everything would be fine but he also knew he couldn’t. He really wanted to say something to her but he was short of words. He pondered why he was always acting out of character when she was around him. He hated this so much. He hated emotions that were not within his control. He didn’t know if what he felt was guilt or pity. But he shouldn’t be feeling guilty right?
He sighed in relief when he saw a taxi approaching and he flagged it down before looking at Jade who was staring intensely at him. He returned her gaze when he thought she had something to say, but she kept looking at him with an unreadable expression. Jade wondered why this man…this stranger was the one showing her a bit of kindness, when the man she had loved had shattered her heart with finesse.
He sighed inwardly before pulling her into the taxi, “Take her to wherever she’s going” He said to the taxi driver before paying him off.
Jake looked at Jade who sat quietly in a daze in the taxi before signaling the driver to drive off.
He kept staring at the taxi till it disappeared out of sight, and he felt his emotion flicker. He hated this effect she had on him. But what he hated most was her dead eyes which spoke nothing but hurt.
He hopes she gets past whatever her problem has.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 8
Episode 8
Grace was becoming impatient with Jade’s attitude. She had locked up herself in her room and had refused to come out, not even for breakfast or dinner. She slightly knocked on Jade’s door before using the spare key to open the door as she walked inside.
She flicked on the light and found Jade sitting on the side of her bed in stupefaction.
“Jade” She called out sofly as she walked closer to the bed.
“Jade you have to talk to me at some point you know that right” Grace, Jade’s mother said in a soft tone as she sat down on the edge of Jade’s bed.
She couldn’t deal with Jade’s silence anymore. Jade had been all taciturn. She had barely eaten neither had she stepped out of her room talk more of the house. She hasn’t even been to work, which was unusual.
She still hasn’t forgotten how Jade had returned home drenched with her eyes swollen when she came back from the hospital. She had locked herself up and barely opened the door to take her meals, even when they were delivered to her.
All her attempts to make Jade open up to her had proved futile. Jade had been in her room with her windows shut and had remained on the same spot. If truth be told, she was nearly looking like a mummy.
“I know something is wrong. I can tell when something bothers my daughter” Grace added when Jade remained silent as she looked outside the window with nothing in view.
Grace couldn’t handle Jade’s sulky mood anymore. She had made a resolve to make her reveal what her problem was today or she’ll keep badgering her till she budged. Her daughter has always been a cheerful and vibrant girl. But now, she had barely said a word or revealed a smile.
“I’m sorry for hitting you. I really didn’t mean to. I…I was just upset” She apologized when she thought that might be the problem, but who was she kidding, Jade had never been that petty. But what else could she think of?
Grace frowned when all she got was Jade’s silence. She angrily got up from the bed, “This must be about Cale right?” She asked when this realization dawned on her. “Did he hurt you? Did he cuss at you? Hold on, did he break up with you?” Grace scowled when she saw how Jade’s emotions flickered as her eyes welled up in tears. How could she not have thought of this possibility?
“That bastard!! I’m going to kill him” Kelvin yelled angrily as he flung Jade’s door open before stepping in, startling both Jade and Grace. He had been peeking through the door, anxiously waiting to know what the problem was. He tried calming himself down when his mother glared at him in a way that said ‘would you keep your voice down’.
Kelvin wasn’t used to seeing his sister looking this sad, dishelved and broken. He had stayed at her door for a few nights when she sobbed silently not knowing whether to go in and console her, in as much as he wanted to, her door was locked. He knew she’d eventually talk about it, but the wait was devastating.
Jade raised her head up to look at her mother and little brother who were impatiently waiting for her to say something and she broke down with tears rolling down her eyes. Grace couldn’t bear to see her daughter like this, as she hurried over and pulled her into a tight hug.
Jade buried her head on her mother’s shoulder as she sobbed loudly. Kelvin’s eyes slowly turned misty with tears. The last time his sister had cried this much was when their father died.
“It’s okay princess, stop crying” Grace comforted her, with Kelvin standing beside her with his hands patting her back.
Jade gasped for air as she recalled the horrendous sight at the hospital. She took in deep breaths as she tried really hard to recompose herself, “Mo…m, it… hurts. It hurts so much…that I can’t breathe” Jade said as she continued to sob with her hands around her mother who hugged her tightly. She continued…
“You were right. You were both right. Cale isn’t good for me. He is a cheat” She said as her dam of tears broke again and tears rolled down her eyes.
“Shhh…it’s okay” Grace said in a low and sad tone as she patted her hair. Her heart bled for her daughter’s misfortune. She had not expected much from that slyful and incompetent moron who had been milking her daughter dry and using her non-stop. She had always known he was not good for her. She had hoped Jade’s eyes would be open to the kind of person he was, but she didn’t expect it to be this way.
“What did he do?” Grace asked Jade in a restless and agitated voice, when Jade’s sobbed died down.
Jade slowly raised her head from her mother’s shoulder with her eyes lowered as she hitched.
“I saw him kissing Stephanie…” Jade started.
Grace look turned murderous as Jade narrated what happened between sobs. Her poor daughter has sure suffered alot. She had always known Cane or Cale….whatever he called himself was not a trustworthy person. It was a pity that Jade had to learn with a broken heart.
Kelvin’s inside turned as Jade spoke. His hands clenched in to a fist as his blood boiled.
“I’m really going to kill that bastard!” Kelvin said through gritted teeth. He was literally sweltering with anger.
He has never been fond of cale, as a matter of fact, he loathed him. There was something about Cale that irked him. He had never found him to be a trustworthy fellow, but his sister was so blindly in love and there was nothing he could do. After all he was 7 years younger than her, making him 17 and Jade 24. So he couldn’t possibly order her around right? There were times he wished he was older, then he’d force her to break up with that jerk.
Kelvin wanted to bury his fist in that moron’s face. He really desired to punch that bedlamite, as well as wipe the floor with that perverted face of his. But he also knew that didn’t matter for now. All he wanted was to console his sister and cheer up her dampened spirit.
“You don’t have to cry about him anymore okay. He doesn’t even deserve your tears. He’s such a dick head” Kelvin said, making his mother glare at him as he wiped off Jade’s tears. Kelvin had a foul mouth, but only to those who messes with his mother and sister. He was one to protect his family, age regardless. He was still in High-school, but you can’t remind him of that. He basically sees himself in college already.
“How many times have I told you not to use such words before me?” Grace asked eyeing him.
“Mom, are you really going to scold me now for cussing at that di…” He bit his tongue when he almost made same mistake twice.
“I’m your mother and you shouldn’t be saying such words like dick or dick head even when that dick head is really a scumbag. So just call him that, scumbag” Kelvin looked at his mother incredulously. In his mind he was screaming ‘hypocrite’, but he wouldn’t dare say it out.
Jade’s mood lifted up a bit when she heard the banter between mother and son. That was a regular episode in her life which she had missed this past few days.
Grace gave Kelvin a questioningly look, when the door bell rang, she wasn’t expecting anyone tonight, and she was sure Jade wasn’t.
Kelvin observed his mother’s look, “I’ll go check who it is” He said before leaving the room.
“Amy” He greeted, when he opened the door to find Amy there.
“Shh…Is she still in there?” Amy asked in a whisper.
“Yes, but mom is with her. But why are you whispering?” Kelvin asked raising a brow.
“Your mom is there? That means she opened her door?” Amy asked sounding normal avoiding the question about her whispering. She had wanted to surprise Jade in a way she wouldn’t refuse opening the door. But now she didn’t have to.
“Yes”
“So did she say what happened?” Amy asked curiously. She had tried reaching Jade over the phone but she couldn’t. It wasn’t until Kelvin asked her to come over to cheer up her best friend, did she know Jade had locked herself up.
“Well…She and Cale broke up” Kelvin said hesistantly. He didn’t know if it was in his place to tell.
“It’s about time. l guess God has finally heard my prayers”
“But don’t say I told you okay” Kelvin told her.
“Sure I won’t. Thanks for the heads up kiddo” Amy said with a smile before heading for Jade’s room.
“I’m not a kiddo, I’m an adult” He refuted.
“You’re 17” Amy corrected as she continued walking to Jade’s room.
“I’ll be 18 in a few months” He yelled across the living room but she had gone off.
“Good evening Ma” Amy greeted Grace with a polite smile, which Grace replied with a smile of her own as she got up from the bed so Amy could sit with Jade.
“I’ll be outside” She said as she walked out of the room, while Amy nodded.
Amy looked at Jade and she felt sorry for her. Jade had invested her emotions, love, time and resources to an undeserving Jerk and got her heart broken.
“Girlfriend, you look like shit” Amy said as she sat down beside her.
“I know” Jade replied in a quiet voice.
“Well that’s not an issue for me. I’m sure going to fix you up, cause you literally look like a zombie and I can’t have a zombie with me tonight” Amy said as she stood up to pull Jade up as well.
“I don’t want to be fixed. I just want to lie down” Jade said trying to lie on her bed.
“Come on, you’re not lying down and we’re both going out tonight” Amy said pulling her up from the bed.
“But I don’t want to go out Amy” Jade said.
“Yes you are” Grace said in a domineering voice as she walked back into the room. “You’ve been in this room for days. Just go out and have some fresh air okay” Grace said with pleading eyes.
“Come on baby” Amy said pulling Jade from the bed and pushing her into the bathroom.
“Thank you” Grace mouthed out to Amy before walking out of the room. She was grateful that her daughter had a friend to keep her company at such a difficult time. Hopefully things will turn out better.
__________
Jake was completely buried with work at the office. This past few days has been so hectic for him. He had shuffled between taking care of his grandfather and running the company. He couldn’t rely on his silly brother Blake, who had never taken anything serious not even his job at the company.
He lifted his head when he saw his office door open and Blake walked in without knocking.
“I guess your hands weren’t made for knocking right?” Jake asked with his brow raised.
“They are, but I didn’t know you’d want me to. Since you don’t have a woman at the office or do you?” Blake asked with a grin while Jake eyed him. He sighed inwardly, he wouldn’t stress himself out with this unreasonable brat.
“So why are you here?” Jake asked as he returned his attention back to his work.
“Well it’s past closing hours and I saw your light was still on, so I decided to come check on my bro and I also want to checkout your new office. I did good right?” He asked smiling as he walked closer to Jake’s desk.
“Bro I love your office” Blake chipped excitedly as he took a look around. Jake’s office was so grand. It was way beyond a typical modern office. The view from this floor to roof windows was so beautiful.
“How about I work from here. I promise not to be in your hair” He asked excitedly as he took his seat across Jake’s desk.
“What’s wrong with your office?” Jake asked without looking at him, as he continued with his work.
“I really don’t like my office. I feel like grandfather is punishing me with it. It doesn’t fit my clientele. And I work really hard you know” Blake complained with a pout, making Jake scoff. Who was he kidding? Blake Beau work really hard? Then something must be wrong somewhere. Blake lazied around all day and leaves all his work to his secretary and other staffs of his unit. He was practically disliked by every male staff of the company for his laziness except the ladies who he blatantly flirt with. Why won’t they love him, when he was rich, good looking and also have a great sense of humor.
“So why are you complaining to me? Meet your grandfather, but on a second thought you shouldn’t do that. You can’t go stressing him out with you childish rantings” Jake said as he raised his gaze to Blake.
“If you need a better office, work hard and I’ll promise you a promotion but only if the board approves it” He said as he intensely looked at Blake, waiting for his obvious reply.
“Well you can keep your office, I don’t want it. Actually my office is grand enough for me” Jake was not surprised by his response. He had actually been expecting it.
“So can you leave now? You have seen my office. I have a lot of things to do” Jake said as he picked up his pen to return to the documents strewn on his desk.
“C’mon let’s go, it’s late already. You’re the only person still in this building. Let’s go blow some steam off” Blake said as he picked up Jake’s jacket.
“I’m not the only one, you’re here too. And I really do need to work. So you have to leave”
“Hold on, I remembered something. You didn’t tell me about the girl at the club the other night” Blake said with much interest as he took his seat back waiting for some Juicy gossip. He couldn’t believe he had forgotten about something that important.
“What girl?” Jake asked feigning ignorance. He knew the girl he was referring to. Since he hadn’t been with another since that night.
“The one that said she was a virgin. Was she really a virgin? I really doubt it. Girls this days do alot for money. So tell me” He said thoughtfully, as his ears itched for Jake’s reply. Jake couldn’t help but stare at him in disbelief.
“So you really want to hear about your elder brother’s sex life?” Jake asked as he leaned back on his chair and folded his arms across his chest.
“What’s so bad about that? It’s not like the whole country doesn’t know about it already. I’m only asking for a tiny bit of detail. Don’t be stingy bro” Jake couldn’t believe his ears.
“So tell me how did it go? Was she a virgin?” Blake asked leaning on Jake’s desk with a broad smile on his face. Jake shook his head, he really couldn’t believe God had to give him a lazy and nosy brother.
“I’ll just wait for your curiosity to kill you” Jake said as he returned to signing on his documents. He wasn’t the type to kiss and tell, no matter how promiscuous he is and he sure wouldn’t start now.
“So you won’t tell me?” Blake asked with a disappointed look.
“No!”
“Tsk, you are such a bore. But that doesn’t mean we’re not going out” He said as he got up from his seat.
“I’m busy”
“But you left me here alone with grandfather and travelled. Now that you’re back are you still going to ignore and abandon me?” He said in a sad voice making Jake look at him.
“Come on, let’s go to the karaoke. Just keep me company, I’ve missed you” Blake said as he looked at him expectantly. He knew his brother could never ignore his sad look. Jake kept looking at him. He knew all about Blake’s antics but he was just going to indulge him after all he had missed his brother too.
“Alright fine, let’s go. But just for tonight. And stop playing that guilty card on me, it’s getting too old”
“Then I’ll just have to look for something else to use on you. You can’t get rid of me.” Blake said before bursting out in laughter.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 9
Episode 9
Jade reluctantly went into the bathroom, she really wasn’t up for going out or having any kind of fun, but she also knew she had to, when there were a lot of people making effort to cheer her up.
After taking her bath, she put on a blue jean and a white shirt. She dried her hair and pulled it into a messy bun. She wasn’t a fan of much makeup, so she just dapped her face with a bit of powder and applied her favorite strawberry lip balm on her lips.
“So where are we going?” She asked Amy who was currently drooling over the picture of a man in her phone.
“It’s Karaoke night baby” Amy said putting away her phone as she stood up from the bed and gave Jade an approving look. She was pleased to see her looking much better than a mummified queen of Egypt.
“Why karaoke?” Jade asked with a confused frown. She wasn’t really up for singing.
“Because you baby have to sing till you feel better. Trust me music is therapeutic” She said as she picked up her bag and led them out of the room.
“But Amy…”
“Just listen to me. Let’s go” Amy said leading them out of the room. Jade knew she couldn’t argue with Amy so she just had to concur to her arrangements.
They were both surprised to find Kelvin all dressed up, eagerly waiting for them by the door.
“And where are you going?” Amy asked with cocked brows.
“Out with you guys of course. I also need to cheer my sister up and protect her. You don’t know when that Jerk might show his ugly face” He said with a serious look.
“No way. You’re not going with us. I’m more than enough to take care of 10 Cale’s. And I don’t think that moron will ever show his face again”
“But I want to go too” Kelvin insisted with a light frown.
“Come on kiddo, hurry up and go do what ever it is you high schoolers do when you are at home and leave us girls to go out” Amy said as she teasefully ruffled his hair with her hand making him frown.
“Stop calling me kiddo and I’ll be in college soon” He said as he angrily stomped his feet.
“Whatever kiddo” Amy teased with a smile as she waved at him before walking out of the house with Jade.
“You really should stop teasing him that much” Jade told her as they boarded a taxi.
“Then how would my day be complete” Amy said before bursting out in laughter. She really couldn’t stop pissing Kelvin off. The feeling was just too epic. Jade could only shake her head at her friend childishness.
Amy is Jade’s best and only friend. They had met about the same time Jade met Cale in college. Cale and Amy were both her seniors in college.They had studied in same faculty but Jade and Cale studied same courses. Though Cale was Jade’s senior, Jade was an exceptionally bright student so she always helped with his assignments and projects which had always made Amy angry. Amy was fully in the know of how Jade had helped Cale get his present job at one of the prestigious gaming company and she had studied hard day and night, burning her midnight candles to land an internship in the same company, so they could see each other more and so she could have more of his time.
Amy had always adviced Jade against her relationship with Cale and she totally despised Cale for using Jade and she knew he didn’t like her too, but the more he despised her, the more her proximity with Jade grew closer. She knew she had to stay by Jade’s side to keep her away from doing something stupid for Cale. Little did she know Jade already did.
Jade noticed Amy scrolling through the same pictures of the man she had been drooling over earlier at her place.
“Amy who’s that?” Jade asked making Amy put away her phone immediately.
“No one” Amy denied.
“That’s not true. He’s definitely someone or else you wouldn’t be drooling over his picture for such a long time” Jade said. She really wanted to divert her attention away from all the Cale drama and there’s no better way to do that than with Amy.
“I said it’s no one” Amy said avoiding Jade’s look.
“He’s cute” Jade said.
“I know right” She said with a shy smile, bringing her phone and showing the pictures to Jade.
“Are you not going to ask me about it?” Jade asked looking at Amy. She knew Kelvin or her mother might have told about her situation with Cale.
“About what?” Amy asked with an innocent expression.
“Cale and i” She said dully.
“I don’t need to. It’ll only make you sulk more, so I’ll just keep your company till you completely get over it, and then we can talk when you no longer feel hurt talking about it” Amy said with a small smile making Jade sigh. This was one of the reasons why she loved Amy. Amy was the true definition of a friend.
_________
“Are you really not going to tell me?” Blake asked as they drove out of the company.
“Tell you what?” Jake asked as he drove, he wasn’t so sure what he was talking about.
“About her? Tell me is she really a virgin?” Blake asked again. He couldn’t accept the fact that Jake was been tight lipped about it. He definitely have to satisfy his curiosity.
“I don’t mind throwing you out of the car right now” Jake warned with a mock glare. Blake was only dilligent when it came to gossips and hanging out with friends. But would lazy about in anything else. How annoying.
“But she was very pretty and she sort of looked naive. I think she’s your type” Blake said still staring at his brother, hoping to get something out of him.
“And how would you know my type?” Jake asked turning his head to look at him, before returning his gaze to the road.
“Well she’s got that banging body you like and there’s something about her that’s got you hooked. I mean look at you not telling me anything and remember how you just left with her that night? That was so unlike you bro. So I can say she’s your type. It’s either you just haven’t noticed it yet or you just don’t know” Blake said thoughtfully.
Though It was true that Jake was a typical play boy, but that didn’t mean he agrees to every woman that approaches him. So it was quite shocking for Blake to see his brother easily accept a lady that randomly approached him. It only meant his brother might just be attracted to her.
Jake fell silent at his brother’s words. There was indeed something different about her. He didn’t know why she stirred up a pit of emotions in him. Emotions he wasn’t comfortable with.
*********
15 mins later, Jade and Amy arrived at their favorite karaoke spot. Jade wasn’t exactly elated about hanging out with Amy tonight…maybe she would, if it had been in different circumstances. She’d rather be home and hide under her quilt than be out here, but she also didn’t want to stay locked up in her room and make her family and friend worry about her.
“Hold on, let me take this call. I’ll be back okay” Amy said as she excused herself before walking to the side to take a call.
Jade rubbed on her arms with her hand as the weather was a bit cold. She regretted not coming out with her jacket. She was startled when she felt a jacket wrapped around her shoulders.
She turned around and to her surprise, she found Cale standing beside her. She was shocked to find him there.
Cale saw the surprise and hurt in her eyes. He had not actually planned seeing her there. It was also very much surprising for him to find her there.
Jade didn’t know what to say or do at the moment. She hadn’t really organized her thoughts and emotions, so she didn’t know how to react to his presence right now. A part of her wanted to tear him apart, but another part reminded her this was the man she had loved for 5years.
“Jade I’m sorry. You misunderstood the situation at the time. I don’t really know how to convince you…but you’ve got to believe me” Cale said with a sincere expression. He paused as he looked at Jade’s eyes for any reaction to his words.
“Babe you have to trust me. Nothing is really going on between Stephanie and I. She tried seducing me, but you know it’s you I love right. You truly have to believe” He felt hopeful when he saw Jade’s emotions flicker in her eyes. He didn’t think it was time to let go of Jade yet….or maybe he just didn’t want to let go. He continued…
“Jade I love you. I truly do” He said softly as he slowly pulled her into a hug. Jade was caught up between diverse emotions as she stood still and let Cale hug her. She didn’t know what to feel at the moment. But one thing was sure she was repulsed by Cale’s hug.
_____
Few meters away was packed a black Audi R8 just across the road, with a man staring at the hugging couples with blood shot eyes. Jake’s gripped over the wheels tightened. He didn’t know why he was getting angry over the sight in front of him. Although he couldn’t see their faces clearly he could still figure out her face.
He was pissed, as he floored the gas pedal and sped out of sight. Blake was surprised by Jake’s sudden action. He had missed out on the scene because he had been playing with his phone when they arrived at the karaoke spot.
“Bro where are you going” Blake asked in surprise.
“Let’s go to the club” He said with a frown as his gripped over the wheel tightened even more.
Love? Wasn’t love meant to be respected and reciprocated. How could Cale say he loved her, when she had caught him kissing someone else, and planning their marriage together. How did that prove his love for her? Why was she only now feeling some sort of insincerity in Cale’s words?
She unconsciously took a step back from Cale’s hug, making him frown slightly before regaining his apologectic look.
“Jade don’t you trust me? Where’s your trust for me?” He asked her with hurting eyes.
“Trust for you? Her trust for you is in the slums, you can go pick it up there” Amy said angrily as she walked up to them. She had just ended her call when she saw an unwanted peasant hugging Jade. She couldn’t believe the nerves of this bastard showing his face to Jade and saying something about trust. How shameless!.
Cale couldn’t bother to talk back at Amy as he eyed her and returned his gaze to Jade.
“Babe I’m truly sorry. But you have to believe me. I love you…just you” He said looking intensely into her eyes. He could tell Jade still had feelings for him or why else was she silent instead of cussing at him like her crazy friend Amy. He has always known her to be obedient and quiet and he has really been confident in her love for him.
“Love? did you say love. I think I just got a new definition of love. Does your understanding of love entails cheating and betrayal?” Amy asked standing in between Jade and Cale with her arms folded across her chest. She gave Cale a disgusting look, like the sight of him was not healthy for her eyes. She had always known that Cale wasn’t entirely faithful to her friend and she had long wanted to give him a piece of her mind.
“Hearing the word love from your mouth makes me want to puke. You really have no shame do you? Even animals know how to be appreciative and reciprocative but I can’t say the same for you, you scumbag. How dare you hurt my friend and still have the guts to show that deteriorating face of yours to her. I have always known you are such an imbecile. Well now you just proved you are worst than that” She cussed saying the latter part with a shrug.
“You..”
“I’d advice you to shut that gutterish mouth of yours. I’m warning you Cale, better don’t show yourself before Jade next time, if you don’t want her to die of nausea. You don’t need me to tell you how irritating and nauseous your presences make her. I’m being nice to you, because today is a good day. Next time you won’t be so lucky, cause I’ll pummel your to the ground” She said turning to take his jacket which was still resting on Jade’s shoulders.
“And keep this rag of yours, even rodents won’t play with this. N.O.W SCRAM!!!” She yelled with anger evident in her eyes. Cale was tongue tied as he stood there as Amy rained insults on him. He looked at Jade who just stood behind Amy silently, expecting her to say something.
Cale was burning with anger. He had really disliked Amy from time, and she was just giving him more reasons to hate her more.
Amy stared at him irritably with disgust as she blocked his sight from Jade. Was he really expecting Jade to say something? Unbelievable!
Amy held Jade by her hands as she pushed past Cale. She knew she had to leave else she might really do something crazy to him. She’d be Jade’s defence till she was able to sort out her emotions.
Cale glared angrily at Amy’s back as he picked up his jacket from the floor and stormed away. This was the reason he hated that sharped tongue bitch.
“I’ll just have to look for another opportunity” He said to himself as he walked to a different direction. Actually he had been waiting for Stephanie when he coincidentally saw Jade.
He left the hospital a few days ago, and he had waited for Jade to come back and visit him and maybe ask for explanations like other girls would, but he was surprised when she didn’t. He thought she might still be angry, so he had planned to look for an opportunity to apologize and get her back. But Amy just had to ruin it.
“Amy can we just go home” Jade said in a low voice. She had lost whatever little vibe she initially had to hang out tonight. She had not expected to see Cale and seeing him just revived her hurt feelings and the hurtful memories she was trying hard to bury.
“Why? Because of that piece of shit” Amy turned to look at her while Jade lowered her head.
“That’s not it” She replied lowly.
“Then forget about going home. Because we are to sing and you’ll relieve yourself of whatever stress and pain you’re feeling, only then you are allowed to go home. And you’ll have to go to work tomorrow. Forget Cale, he isn’t worth it. You’ll get over it and tonight is a huge step towards getting better okay.” She said making Jade nod in agreement.
“Let’s go” Amy said leading them in.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 10
Episode 10
Blake almost pissed his pants at how fast Jake was driving. He had wanted to say something, but the gloomy look on Jake’s face kept him mute. He didn’t understand his brother’s sudden change of mood. They were only talking about the mysterious lady some moments ago, so what had suddenly happened? He felt like throwing up, he wasn’t used to driving this fast, so he stucked his face to the window and closed his eyes.
Jake was pissed at the scene he had just witnessed, but what vexed him more was his reaction towards the whole situation. He didn’t know why he was acting up towards another guy hugging a lady he had just met. He didn’t know why she was stirring a fountain of emotions in him. Emotions he didn’t want, emotions that were too frustrating.
He thought about their first encounter, how bold she was that night, the sex, how he had felt bad about taking her innocence, how he had helplessly and stupidly followed her under the rain. He hated every form of feeling he had felt and was still feeling toward this girl. He didn’t understand why he was acting like a jealous boyfriend who had caught his girlfriend cheating. He tightened his grip around the wheel as he floored the gas pedal. He really needed some alcohol to take him off the edge.
A while later, they arrived his favorite hang out spot, the grandhills hotel. They got out of the car and walked towards the underground club. Jake was almost regretful for coming here, when he suddenly remembered that he had met her here.
‘Why was everything suddenly reminding him of her? He asked himself frustratedly as he hastened his steps with Blake tailing behind.
“Why are we at the club and not at the Karaoke?” Blake asked when he could no longer keep quiet. He was really curious about his brother’s change of mind.
“Because it’s more fun” Jake replied him as he continued walking in long strides.
Blake was unhappy about coming to the club. He had never really liked coming here. This was his brother’s turf not his. He only tags along because he liked hanging out with his brother. But Jake would always finds a girl to mess with and leaves him behind and he had a feeling tonight won’t be any different.
Blake has been socially tainted by his brother promiscuous lifestyle. People thought he followed in his brother’s footsteps, but actually he was just an elite flirt, nothing more.
They took their seats at the bar as they ordered their drinks. Blake watched Jake with a frown as he gulped down several shot glasses in one go. He knew his brother well enough to know he drank this much only when he was in a foul mood, which of course he didn’t have when they left the office. He didn’t understand his flutuating mood at all. ‘Is he on his period?’
“Who’s on their period?” Jake suddenly turned and asked, making Blake immediately cover his mouth with his hand. He couldn’t believe he had said that out, wasn’t he just thinking about it.
Jake was sure he had heard Blake say something about someone being on their period and from the look on his face, he was certain Blake’s words were directed at him.
“Well, are you?” Blake asked with raised brows as he took a sip from his glass while avoiding Jake’s gaze. Jake shot a mock glare at him before his eyes darted to the seat he had found Jade sitting the first time she came into the club. He growled in frustration before taking his eyes of it. He didn’t like the thought of this woman messing up his brain.
He looked around the club for a clean chick. Maybe what he needed was a good romp under the sheets with a girl. Maybe that would take his mind off this mystery girl who kept bugging his mind. He needed to get her out of his system.
He looked around and his eyes fell on a fair skinned beauty, who was donned in a skimpy pink glittery, off shoulder gown that revealed alot of her cleavages. She was seated in the midst of other beauties who have been ogling at him since he stepped into the club.
Blake frowned when he noticed his brother gaze on a clique of girls who were shamelessly winking at him.
“You’re not leaving me alone tonight, are you?” Blake asked with a frown.
“You my brother need to get laid as soon as possible. You’re just too upright. As for me I have a bunch if nerves I need to loosen” He said gulping down his drink before turning to wink at his lady in pink, who immediately stood up and swayed her ass towards him.
‘Ladies’ He said in his mind as he smirked.
Blake angrily slipped out of his seat and grabbed the car keys, “And find your way home after that” He said before storming out of the club as Jake scoffed at his childish fit before returning his gaze at the approaching lady as he smiled at her. All he wanted was a pleasurable night.
__________
Amy and Jade walked into karaoke place and they picked a booth. Amy could see that Jade’s mood had dropped by a certain degree since Cale reappearance tonight.
“Jade let’s order something okay” Amy said when one of the staff came to take their orders and also handed them an i-pad to select their songs.
“I’m not hungry” Jade replied.
“What do you mean you’re not hungry. You look too lean and your clavicle can hold water” She said looking at Jade who still didn’t show any interest about eating.
“Get us two buckets of drumsticks and 2 Ice teas okay” Amy told the waiter. She had no intention of letting Jade be.
“Jade pick a song” She said handing Jade the I-pad. But Jade just looked at it disinterestedly without picking it up, making Amy sigh.
Amy understood how Jade was feeling at the moment, but she also felt Cale wasn’t worth the stress.
“Jade I’m going to be very honest with you. You have to put yourself together, Cale breaking up with you isn’t the end of the world. See it as an opportunity to meet someone better, who’ll love, respect and value you as much as you’ll love him and even more. Cale is just a coward for losing someone as great and as beautiful as you. I’m going to tell you this not because you’re my friend. Jade you’re beautiful. You’re the most intelligent and admirable woman I’ve ever seen. Men should be throwing themselves at you and they will. So you should stop sulking over a loser who isn’t worth a drop of your tears okay” She sang to Jade in all seriousness as Jade looked intensely at her and slowly bobbed her head up and down.
Amy was pleased when she saw a slight change in Jade’s countenance.
“Now pick a song and sing till your feel a whole lot better” She said with a small smile as she handed the I-pad to her, which she accepted this time around.
She selected ‘Jars of heart by Christina perri’ before picking up the mic and started singing.
I know I can’t take one more step towards you
‘Cause all that’s waiting is regret
Don’t you know I’m not your ghost anymore
You lost the love I loved the most
I learned to live, half alive
And now you want me one more time
And who do you think you are?
Runnin’ ’round leaving scars
Collecting your jar of hearts
And tearing love apart
You’re gonna catch a cold
From the ice inside your soul
Don’t come back for me
Who do you think you are?
I hear you’re asking all around
If I am anywhere to be found
But I have grown too strong
To ever fall back in your arms….
She slowly sang and Amy reminisced on how beautifully Jade had sang during their college days.
***********
“Hello handsome” The lady in pink greeted in a coquettish voice. Jake carefully looked at her and he was pleased. She looked pretty enough for him.
“Want to have some fun?” Jake asked directly making her nod as she tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ears. He wasn’t really interested in having small talks. He got off his seat and they started walking out of club.
She couldn’t help but blush at Jake’s gait. He looked extremely manly and that was how she liked her men.
Jake looked at her amorously as he walked into the elevator with her by his side. She playfully drew circles on his exposed chest and fiddled with his buttons seductively. He smirked at how willing she was. He gently pushed her against the wall of the elevator as he plunged on her lips and kissed her passionately.
He really didn’t like girls like this but he had alot of desires and pent up anger he wanted to vent. He couldn’t wait to loose himself free of his mixed up feelings as he kissed her more intensely making her slip her hands around his neck. He quickly brushed her hands off him as he held them above her head with one hand while the other slipped beneath her short gown and into her panties. He wasn’t surprised when he found she was dripping wet due to the long kiss. He slipped his finger into her nether part making her moan. He scoffed in his head at how ridiculous her moan sounded.
He increased his thrust as he used two more fingers to work on her, making her moan more loudly in pleasure.
He pulled free from her and wiped his fingers on her gown when the elevator dinged making her groan slightly in frustration.
She followed behind Jake as he led them to a suite. Jake has never been the type to take his women home. He’ll never be stupid enough to do that. He had lived with his grandfather and he also owned a penthouse, but he preferred doing his dirty business in an hotel room.
She quickly pounced on him as soon as they walked into the room as she hastily tried to undo his buttons. He held her by her waist as he kissed her and undid her zip before leading them to the bed. He hungrily pounced on her till his desires were completely satisfied.
After a few rounds of sex, he suddenly felt disgusted by the lady beside him. He quickly got up from the bed to fix himself up in the bathroom.
“Are you leaving?” The girl asked with a sad pout when she saw Jake getting dressed.
“Yeah. You can leave when you want to” He said before turning to walk out.
“But I thought…” Her words trailed off when Jake slammed the door without looking back. She felt dissapointed by his actions. She had thought she could work her way into his life. Tsk..What a pity. That wasn’t Jake’s style.
Jake stormed out of the hotel feeling worst than he felt when he arrived earlier and even before having what seemed like the worst sex of his life.
He still couldn’t shake the feeling of Jade out of his mind. What the hell was wrong with him? He shouldn’t be feeling this way towards a lady he only met for the first time. What spell was working on him?
He angrily hopped into a taxi and headed home since Blake had left with his car. He needed to have a talk with his grandfather, that was the only person who’d make him feel better at the moment.
.
.
Do you recommend Jake for Jade with this his promiscuous and unprincipled in sexual matters?
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 11
Episode 11
Jake was surprised to see his grandfather sitting in the living room at that hour of the night. He had been expecting him to be in his room, since the doctor has recommended a 14 days bed rest for him.
“Grandfather” Jake greeted with a bow which his grandfather replied with a curt nod.
“It’s either you’re really trying to kill yourself or you’re trying to wear me out” Jake said to his grandfather as he took his seat on the sofa opposite him.
“And it’s that why you came back in a taxi? Where’s your car?” Grandfather replied with a question of his own. His butler had seen Jake entering the residence in a taxi.
“It’s with Blake” Jake replied.
“Then why are you looking so sullen?” Grandfather Beau asked. He was a really observant person. He knew his grandchildren well.
“What do you expect when I’ve been worried about you and taking care of the company at same time. You just had to choose this time to make me pick up the reins of the company, how perfect” Jake complained as he leaned back on the sofa.
“You don’t like doing both? But you shouldn’t be worried about me”
“And why won’t I be. I’m not always at home all day and I can’t stop thinking Hillary might show up here again. And you’re yet to tell me what you both talked about” Jake said looking intently at his grandfather, who has been tight lipped about his conversation with Hillary.
“That doesn’t concern you. You should focus on the company more”
“Did your bringing me in have something to do with Hillary? You knew she was returning didn’t you?” Jake asked curiously.
“I heard you have a new project, is it true?” Grandfather Beau said changing the topic, while Jake signed exasperatedly.
“Then if you heard it, then it must be true” Jake said standing up to leave.
“Why are getting up? Angry?”
“Grandfather you should know better than to keep stuffs from me. I’m not a child who needs your protection anymore. So if you want to hide things from me, then I better retire to my bedroom” He said bowing to his grandfather before heading to his room.
If his grandfather wants to keep things from him, then he’ll have to unearth whatever it is.
********
*KARAOKE PLACE*
Amy and Jade spent a long time singing different genre of songs. Amy didn’t mind doing all that as far as she made Jade feel better.
Jade was totally grateful to Amy for keeping her company tonight and for really trying to cheer her up.
“I heard you haven’t been to work for days now. Are you trying to get fired?…that’s only if you aren’t fired already” Amy said looking at her as they got ready to leave. It has been a tiring day for both of them. Amy had hurried over to Jade’s place after work, so she hadn’t rested the whole day.
“I took a sick leave actually” Jade replied.
“So when will you be returning back to work. Remember this is just the fifth month of your internship”
“I know, but…” Jade let her words trail off.
“But what?” Amy asked looking at Jade intensely. She could tell what was going through Jade’s mind at the moment.
“You’re not thinking of leaving your job, are you?” Amy asked curiously, while Jade shrugged in way that affirmed to her thoughts.
“Are you crazy?” Amy asked looking at Jade incredulously. She couldn’t believe Jade was thinking about something like that.
“You can’t leave your job. That’s unacceptable” Amy said in a flash of anger. She knew how Jade was feeling at the moment, but she also didn’t think it was right for Jade to leave her job because of Cale. It wasn’t easy for Jade to attain her internship spot at Xenox Inc. Xenox was one of the leading gaming company in the country, if not the continent.
Jade had helped Cale tremendously in gaining a job there and had also walked her ass off into acquiring her internship at the company.
Amy felt Cale wasn’t worth the hassle and sacrifice of losing a lifetime opportunity or worst, ruining her life chances for a total jerk.
“It definitely won’t be comfortable working with Cale at same company anymore” Jade said sadly. She really did love her job, and she was fully aware it might be next to impossible to gain an internship in any reputable company at the moment if she was to reapply.
“Jade!”
“Just let me think about it. I’m not so sure of anything right now” Jade said dismissively, while Amy looked at her exasparetedly as they walked out of the karaoke place.
“Promise not to think so much about all of this, but do think about how important your job is” Amy said giving Jade a hug.
“Sure” Jade said with a nod.
“Then I’ll call to check up on you tomorrow. And Jade don’t quit your job okay. I love you” Amy said before putting Jade into a waiting cab. She waved at her as the taxi drove away before getting in another taxi.
______
Jade had cried last night after returning back home. She had thought about all that happened at the hospital with Cale and about her conversation with Amy. She felt Amy was right about what she had said. She had woken up the next morning with a new resolve. She shouldn’t give up on such a great opportunity because of a man who didn’t love and value her. She was going to get her shit together and live her life beautifully and not sulk or whine for a man who doesn’t deserve her and who’s probably lying in the arms of another woman right now.
She had worked hard enough to get to where she was today and she’d be damned to ruin her life because of Cale.
Yes she might have loved him like no other and she couldn’t say she has totally gotten over everything yet, but she also believed she deserves better. And she was definitely going to get what she deserved, ‘better’.
She got out of bed and rushed into the bathroom to get herself ready for work.
She put on a nude color slit skirt, nude camisole and a black blazer which she paired with a black plump heels. She stretched her hair and packed it in a bun at the back of her head and applied her favorite lip balm.
She looked at herself in the mirror and she was pleased with her look.
“You can do this Jade” She said to herself before leaving her bedroom.
Grace and Kelvin were both shocked when they both saw Jade walk into the living room.
Kelvin looked at their mother with wide eyes before glancing back at Jade. A grin appeared on Grace’s face. This was too good to be true. They couldn’t believe their eyes as they saw Jade looking pretty and obviously ready for work.
“Mom, I’m not seeing things am I?” Kelvin asked in disbelief with his eyes still staring at his sister.
“You’re definitely not” Grace replied almost in a whisper.
“And why are you guys staring at me like you haven’t seen me before?” Jade asked as she dropped her bag and took her seat at the dinning table.
“Well it’s not like we haven’t seen you before, it just…you took us by surprise” Grace explained with a smile.
“Sis you’re really going to work right?” Kelvin asked just to be sure things were exactly as it seemed. Just last night his sister was moving like a walking dead with big dark circles and a sulken mood. But now she was looking good and vibrant like she wasn’t the same person he had seen last night.
“Yea, I am” She replied as she served herself breakfast.
“You are not leaving your job?” Kelvin asked again.
“No. Why would I want to leave my job?” Jade asked back before taking a bite of her toasted bread.
“Amy said you wanted to” Grace replied. She was just as curious as Kelvin.
“Well I’m not. As you both can see, I’m ready to report back to work” Jade said. She couldn’t believe Amy would tell her family about it. Thank God she had changed her mind about this.
“That’s good” Grace said with a smile. She was happy to see that her daughter was gradually getting her life back in order.
“But that scumbag still works there. Sis, tell me if he bothers you at work okay. I’ll teach him a good lesson for you” Kelvin said in all seriousness.
“Yes sir” Jade said in mock politeness as she got up to leave.
“I’ll see you guys later”
“But you haven’t finished your meal” Grace said with a frown when she noticed Jade had barely finished her breakfast.
“I love you both” Jade called out as she walked out of the house.
…
Jade had only arrived the company when she received a call from Amy.
“Hey girlfriend” Amy greeted cheerily.
“Thank you for telling my mom about what we talked about yesterday” Jade said sarcastically.
“You’re welcome baby. Now tell me you’re at work already”
“I’m at work already” Jade replied repetitively.
“That’s my girl. You’ve got to show that bastard that you’re not a push over. Show him you are way above his league both intellectually and emotionally” Amy said in a happy tone. She couldn’t be any much happier that Jade was not caving away in hurt.
“I hope you’re dressed well for your emotional rebirth. I really hope you’re dressed to make that bastard uncomfortable all day” Amy asked suspiciously. Jade was not a fashion person but she could still dress herself to look pretty when the time calls for it.
Jade looked down at her outfit and said, “I think I look good enough. I wouldn’t want to change myself because of him. You taught me that right?” Jade said.
“I did, but you also…Jade I’m going to have to call you back” Amy said her latter words in a whisper before abruptly ending the call, when she saw the man that appeared before her desk with a smoothering smile.
‘Blake Beau’ Her heart squealed excitedly.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 12
Episode 12
Jade
was surprised as Amy abruptly ended the call. She looked at herself once again
just to be sure she wasn’t looking bad as Amy’s words were sort of messing with
her head. She squared her shoulders and headed for the elevator when she heard
the voice of the person she least wanted to hear at the moment. What kind of
luck did she have for him to be the first person she sees as soon as she
resumed work.
“Jade!”
Jade continued walking without slowing down her steps. She almost felt like
running, though she may had mustered up some courage to face him if she
accidentally bumped into him. She suddenly felt like she didn’t have the
strength to face him. Why did he resume work so soon? People who undergo
surgery should at least have a month of rest right? Why was he here? she asked
herself as she continued walking.
“Jade
wait!” Jade stopped when she felt a hand on her forearm.
“I
would love it, if you can keep your hand to yourself Mr Cale Stuart” Jade
said glaring at his hand on her forearm, which he awkwardly retracted. She
looked at him, it didn’t seem he had resumed work already.
Jade
continued on her path when Cale said, ” Jade I’m sorry” making Jade
paused on her tracks as she turned to look at him.
“I’m
sorry Jade. It’s all a mistake” He said walking closer to her till he
stood in front of her.
“Stephanie
means nothing to me. You mean everything to me” He added as he looked at
Jade who was staring at him silently. He could tell something was different
about her. Her eyes were suddenly cold and there was no trace of warmth in
them. He could feel something strange about this Jade.
“Jade
say something, anything at all”
“Anything
like what?” Jade asked in a cold and stern tone.
“That
you’ll forgive me. I know you love me and you’ve always wanted us to be
together and you also know I love you too, so you can’t continue staying angry
with me right? I know the sacrifices you’ve put into our relationship so it
could work. You can’t let all that go to waste” Cale said with great
confidence. He knew how Jade had selflessly loved him this past few years and
he was truly confident she’d definitely return to him.
Cale’s
word greatly vexed Jade. So he knew all about the sacrifices she had made and
the pain she endured in their relationship but he had to do this to her?
“So
what happens when I forgive you?” Jade asked derisively. She knew Cale
wasn’t being sincere with his apology even though she didn’t need it. She’d
never return to a lying and cheating bastard.
Cale
felt a spark of hope when he heard Jade’s question. So he moved closer and
placed his hands on her arms which greatly repulsed Jade.
“Then
we can get back together and put all this behind us, so we can work on our
future” He said slowly, as he looked intently at her.
“Future?
What future?” Jade asked calmly, but a tsunami of anger was building in
her.
“A
future of us. You and me working together….and achieveing things we talk
about. Getting to the top with you by my side and finally getting married”
He said dreamily, making Jade scoff. She looked at him irritably as she brushed
his hands off her.
She
felt disgusted looking at him. Why had she not seen this side of him in all
this years. Why was she the only one who couldn’t see him for what he truly is.
She must have betrayed her country in her past lives to have been punished to
meet someone like Cale in this life.
Initially
she had thought about how she was going to face Cale. She thought about the
kind of feelings she’d have when she sees him, but right now all she felt was
anger and regret.
She
couldn’t believe she had allowed herself to be used by him. So all he thought
about was using her to walk his way up.
She
had foolishly helped him with all his projects, presentations and report. She
had actually been doing all his work while he fooled around.
Cale
was taken a back when Jade brushed his hands off her, like he was some sort of
trash that irritated her.
“I
must have been a fool to have been in love with you and let you use me the way
you did. You can keep your apology to yourself, I don’t need it. And for the
future you spoke about, you can have that with your ‘cousin’, I’m not
interested in any form of future with you, I think the past is repulsive enough”
Jade said indifferently.
“And
Mr Cale don’t ever stop me again” She said before walking away with her
chin up and her shoulders squared.
Cale
looked incredulously at her. He couldn’t know Jade would talk to him or worst
treat him in such away. He watched as she took the elevator without sparing him
a second glance. He couldn’t believe this was happening.
*********
“Hello
pretty” Blake greeted with a bright smile that made his eyes shine
beautifully.
“Good
morning sir” Amy greeted with a smile of her own. She couldn’t believe
Blake was standing right in front of her. Her day was surely going to be a
great day.
“Morning
pretty lady. Hope you’re having a great day?” Blake asked smiling.
“Yes
sir. Thank you” Amy replied. Why wouldn’t it be.
“Where
is your director?” Blake asked.
“He
isn’t available at the moment. He should be with the president sir” Amy
replied.
“Okay.
Stay pretty okay” He said with a wink before taking his leave. Amy
couldn’t help herself from smiling sheepishly as Blake walked out. This day was
just too perfect.
_________
*Some
hours later*
Cale
could accept that Jade could really treat him in such a way. He had expected
her to be angry like any other person should, but Jade acting indifferently
towards him, was what he couldn’t understand. He hadn’t expected that at all.
Leaving
Jade was not even an option to him. If she left him then what about his
upcoming projects? How was he going to expect a promotion without Jade to help
him do the job. He wouldn’t give up on Jade, at least not till he got his
promotion.
Having
Jade in his life since college has been nothing but a blessing. Her
intelligence had come in handy and had helped him tremendously in his academic
pursuit and career. So there was no way in hell he’d leave Jade alone, even
though he also wants to be with Stephanie.
“Where
have you been?” Helen asked with a frown immediately Cale stepped into the
house.
“I
went out” Cale answered as he plopped himself down on the sofa.
“Out?
You were supposed to be in your bedroom resting, and not going out” She
said angrily. She had gone looking for him in his bedroom earlier with his
pills, but she was surprised to find an empty bed with no Cale. She had been
worried about him. The doctor had asked him to rest at least for a few weeks.
“I’m
sorry. I went out to meet Jade” He said with a sigh.
“And
why would you do that?” Helen asked with a scowl.
“Haven’t
you done enough to her? Then why did you go to her?” Helen asked in anger.
“Mom.
I need her” He said as he turned to look at her.
“You
need her? Not that you love her? Don’t you have that girl you chose over
her?” Helen asked in anger and disbelief as she emphasized on ‘that girl’.
She didn’t know what her son was up to. She couldn’t understand him anymore.
“She’s
not that girl. Her name is Stephanie” Cale corrected as a frown formed on
his face.
“I
don’t care what her name is. Where was she when you nearly died and Jade had to
fight for your life?” Helen at this point was beyond furious. She couldn’t
believe her son could be so shameless as to approach Jade after all he has done
to her.
“Mom…”
“No!
Your Stephanie didn’t show up not until Jade went out to look for money to save
you, something even I your mother couldn’t do. But she did it for you with no
hesitation. She did all she could to save you and all you could do was rub mud
on her face and break her heart. Cale that was evil. If you want to be with
Stephanie that’s your business, but don’t you go around bothering Jade or
else…” She let her words trail off as she stared at Cale dissappointedly.
“Or
else what? Mom” Cale asked in anger.
“I
won’t mind picking Jade over you. I love Jade as my own child, so don’t go
around bothering her. Steer clear of her” She said with a hint of warning
before dropping his pills on the table as she walked out on him.
Cale
wiped his face with his hand frustratedly. He knew Jade was indeed hurt by his
actions but there was no way he could let Jade be. No way!
**********
“Why
are you in my office again?” Jake asked Blake as soon as he walked into
his office.
“Is
that the apology you owe me?” Blake asked as he sat down on the sofa in
the office and picked up a magazine on the table.
“Apology?”
Jake asked raising a brow.
“Yes
an apology”
“For
what?” Jake asked again.
“For
always picking a woman over me! Your own biological brother. I can’t begin to
imagine how vain you’ve always been, to choose a woman over your own little
brother. I’d prefer having a monk for a brother than a hunk who doesn’t love me
at all” He whined with a sad face, making Jake laugh.
“So
you’re indirectly calling me a hunk?” Jake asked admist laughter, while
Blake frowned slightly. He didn’t know why he was laughing instead of
apologizing.
“Aren’t
you?” Blake asked back.
“Well
It depends on who’s saying it. FYI, I don’t sleep with everything I see. And
remind me why I’m explaining this to you again?” Jake asked with cocked
brows, as he stared amusedly at his brother.
Blake
was the fun part of his life. Though he might be a bit nosy, or rather very
nosy and extremely lazy, he still loved him nonetheless. Blake and his
grandfather where the only family he had left, since his father died. And he
wouldn’t ask for more.
Blake
eyed him when he saw that Jake had no intentions of apologizing, but what could
he do. He was used to it already.
“Bro,
you still haven’t told me about your mysterious lady in red” Blake asked
as he hopped over to the chair across Jake’s desk in his full gossipy mood. He
wasn’t going to let go of this matter, not until Jake told him all about it.
Jake
brows narrowed as he looked at Blake in disbelief. Blake was far more nosy than
a woman.
“There’s
nothing to tell?” Jake said as he flipped through a file on his desk,
making Blake pout sadly.
“What
do you mean there’s nothing to tell. There’s alot to tell. I won’t ask you for
her name because I know you don’t know it. But you can tell me if she was
really a virgin. I don’t believe she’s not hooker” Blake said
thoughtfully.
“Well
she’s not”
“That
means she was a virgin?”
“Blake.
get.out.”Jake said when he realized Blake was toiling with him. He
couldn’t believe his brother had tried to outsmart him.
“But
you said she isn’t a hooker. That means you knew…”
“I’m
going to kill you Blake Beau. Get out now” He said with a mock glare.
“Alright
fine. But just so you know this isn’t over. I’ll be back” He said with a
broad smile before strolling out of his office.
WATCHOUT
FOR EPISODE 13
Episode 13
*ACROSOFT CONFERENCE ROOM*
Jake walked into the conference room for the long anticipated shareholders meeting for the initiation of his new project.
He looked around and he could read the expression on the faces of each shareholder.
This would be his first meeting as the CEO of Acrosoft Inc. He could feel the burden on his shoulders in his first week, but he couldn’t avoid his destiny. The company was built on his grandfather’s blood and sweat, and his father has invested his life in it before he died. Now it was his turn to lead the company even though he had served as the president after his father’s death.
“Good day CEO” The shareholders greeted as soon as he walked into the board room. Jake was the youngest CEO since the inception of the company, but he was duly respected.
Jake took his seat at the head of the round conference table. “Good day everyone, we all know why we are gathered here. We are here to discuss and approve a new project that I think will be highly beneficial to the company” Jake said before signalling his secretary, Patrick, to share the documents he had prepared amidst the shareholders.
“The documents before you shows the idea for a new project ‘ProGuard’. This will be a major anti-hacking security software that prevents every game, phone and computer out there from being hacked. Looking at the changing trend of mobile game hacking, which is characterized by indiscriminately hacking using automated hacking tools since the early days when only popular games are hacked. That is because hackers already have a complete understanding of the app structure, thus additional hacking attempts can be led frequently. That’s why we’ll be creating our newest project ProGuard. It will provide a comprehensive and dynamic solution that surpasses anything commercially available in the realm of video games security today. This will be a software that promote fair playing and reduces harrassment. It will be designed to detect software used for cheating as well as isolate cheaters and prevent them from disrupting legitimate games” Jake paused to scan the looks on the faces of every shareholder seated there. And from the look of it, not every one member was buying into his idea but the majority was in his favour. He was confident of receiving 100% support of the share holders at the end of the meeting. He continued…
“But how is this different from any game anti-hacking program out there” a powerful female voice echoed through the room as soon as she walked into the conference room, while every body turned to look at her as she elegantly swayed her way to a seat at the table. She looked as beautiful as she has always been, not a single day older. Her perfect skin glow and ageless face tells you how much she invests on her skin care.
She gave a polite bow to the shareholders, “Sorry for being late” She said before turning to Jake with a meaningful smile, making Jake glare at her lightly.
It would seem she has returned to make trouble for him, but he wasn’t surprised, after all that was her forte.
Jake had to hold himself from snapping at her because he was greatly irritated by this woman—Hillary Beau or rather Hillary Woods as she was called on screen. He has always wondered why his father had married her, but that wasn’t the issue at hand as he redirected his focus back to his meeting.
“ProGuard is a 100 steps ahead of the typical antihacking game security programs out there. Yes it was initially designed for gaming but it actually protect more than that. It protects your phone, computers, CCTV and every other gadgets out there connected to the internet. It’s ideal for internet users as it protects your computer’s data from hackers. Thus reducing the rate of cyber crime in society. ProGuard is definitely more than a just a game enhancer, it’s the future of internet security”
A hand could be heard clapping singly before others joined after Jake finished his speech.
“Proguard. An antihacking security software? What about our other security programs? Don’t they do the same thing?” Hillary asked tilting her head in Jake’s direction after the clapping died down.
“But they function separately. According to the CEO, this will be like a multipurpose software that protects more than just a game, but every thing else” A shareholder answered. It would seem that Hillary’s intention to oppose Jake’s idea was been well observed by those seated at the table.
“That’s a brilliant idea and I think we should go with it. After all CEO Jake has led even more brilliant ideas that has brought huge success. So I believe in his capabilities to do something even better than before” Another Shareholder added while the others nodded in concurrence with the exception of Hillary Beau who just flashed a stiff smile.
Jake was not surprised by the shareholders decision. Their sole interest has always been about making more money and he was helping them do just that.
The meeting continued for another half an hour before is was concluded.
Jake was both happy and nervous at the same time. This project must surely be a success. He knew he has to work even harder to bring his plan to fruition.
**********
“My step son has sure grown up” Hillary said behind Jake as soon as they walked out of the conference room. Jake continued in his strides without paying any attention to her.
“Did your grandfather tell you what we talked about?” Hillary asked, while Jake stopped walking making a smug smile creep on Hillary’s face.
“I heard he visited the hospital after our small conversation. Tsk, he’s becoming too weak” She added.
Jake turned at her and he was extremely pissed when he saw that smug smile on her face.
“You really do bring shame upon actors and actresses at there. Looking at you is enough for my eyes to bleed, which makes me wonder if people ever watch your movies. Oh! I guess that’s why you have the lowest screen time in all the movies you star in. Tsk, so boring.” Jake said in a ridiculing and mocking tone before turning around to head to his office.
Hillary glared at his back angrily before recomposing herself as her fake perfected smile appeared on her face as she walked out of the company. She just have to look for a way to get to him.
_____
Jake was fully engrossed working on his new project after the shareholders meeting. He was really fascinated in kicking it off as soon as possible. He had been confident in himself to successfully convince the shareholders, but he still felt extremely happy that he did at just one sitting.
Acrosoft has always been fully focused on other sofwares projects far more different from his and he knew how tricky initiating a new and risky idea could be, and even convincing the shareholders to buy into the idea was on a different level. But this was Jake Beau. His capability as the ‘king of tech’ was undeniable.
Jake was preparing for a meeting with the design and programming department which will be held the next morning, when his secretary came knocking.
“Sir, you have a call” Jake’s secretary, Patrick informed him, as he passed his phone which he had handed over to him before the meeting.
Jake smiled when he saw the conference call between his crazy friends.
“If it isn’t Mikey, Ricky, Dicky and Dan” He said with a broad smile as soon as he answered the call.
“It’s Nicky, Ricky, Dicky and Dawn man! How many times do I have to correct you?!” Rick corrected in mock anger not seeing the humour in Jake’s words.
“And you’re the dicky one Jake, and we should probably get you a Dawn to play with” Mike said teasefully.
“Can you guys not always talk about women” Daniel answered from his line, making the others roll their eyes.
“Because your father forced you into getting married does not mean you always have to be a kill joy. How bor-ish” Mike replied while the others laughed.
“Where’s Phil?” Jake suddenly asked. He realized it was just the four of them.
“Do you have to ask about him?” Mike asked frowning lightly.
“Why? What has he done again?” Jake asked amusedly when he heard Mike’s whining tone.
“That traitor is busy chasing after some Brazilian girl’s ass across the country, alone!. We were supposed to do that together!” Mike said with a hurtful tone like he has been betrayed by his lover. Jake couldn’t help but laugh at him.
Jake, Mike, Rick, phil and Daniel has been friends for years. They were the typical rich brats who love parties and women. They spend money and live just for fun. It wasn’t until Jake travelled after his father’s death and Daniel was forcefully married that the group of 5 began to have less fun together.
“So Jake Beau, why did you return without informing us? You really messed up man. We would have welcomed you in a grand style” Rick said.
“Yeah, you messed up man. Why would you sneak in without telling us?” Mike added feigning annoyance.
“And by a grand style you mean, with women?” Daniel asked questioningly as he cocked a brow.
“Can someone please tell me why we’re still rolling with this sadly married man. I guess married life is too boring for you and you are just looking for who to vent on right? Just tell me you miss the hot banging bodies of those pretty ladies, but your wife got you under lock and key” Mike teased Daniel, making him narrow his brows frustratedly. He would really snap Mike’s neck if he was within reach.
“Shut the fuck up man” Daniel said playfully. He had no one to blame, but his father for getting him married too soon.
“I see you rich brats have all day to waste doing nothing, but I’ve got a job to do” Jake said dismissively.
“Come on man, don’t be a bore. Come let’s hang out. It’s closing hours. We’ve got to chill together” Rick said.
“Yeah let’s do that. The last time we hanged out together was when we visited you and that was 2 months ago. Now you’re back, and I’ve got some clean ass chicks to make you relax” Mike added.
“I think I’m gonna pass” Daniel declared.
“We’d be happy to miss you man. Go focus on your wife and I hope she pops out some babies soon. Then your life can officially become a living hell. Just so you know, you’re walking towards depression” Mike told Daniel, who just ignored him. Mike had a thing for always opposing Daniel since he got married. He couldn’t believe Daniel would betray them, and go get himself a wife.
“I don’t think I can make it” Jake said in a serious tone. He still had alot of things to finish at the office.
“Shut up! Just be there. See it as your home coming party. You know the usual and please don’t bring Blake along. I can’t handle that boy’s chastity” Daniel added making them laugh except Jake who chuckled.
“That’s my brother. And I love his chaste ass. He can’t be a lothario like you”
“Well said ring leader” Rick said sarcatically. “See you guys soon” Rick said before disconnecting his line.
“See you later man” Mike commented.
“Welcome back Jake” Rick added.
“Thanks” Jake replied before ending the call. He sighed as he kneaded his temples. It seems something’s are unavoidable, and one of those things are hanging out when you have a bunch of crazy friends.
***********
Jade was completely burnt out after work. All she needed right now was rest and some good food. She was about logging out of the company’s system when her phone started ringing. She rummaged through her bag to find it. She smiled to herself when she saw it was Amy on the line.
“Amy Walker, this better be a good call” She said with a small smile.
“I don’t know what you mean by good call, but I wanted to ask you if you are interested in eating out” Amy said.
“I can really use some food right now. So what are we eating?” Jade asked as she picked up her bag and started walking out of the office.
“Anything at all” Amy said.
“Well I’ve been craving for some Nacho’s and banana split. And I also want to get Kelvin some Meat lovers pizza”
“Alright I’ll be at your company soon”
“I was thinking we could eat at Eddy’s. They got the best Nachos and meat lover’s pizza. So I guess I’ll be the one to come over since it’s just a few blocks from your company” Jade suggested.
“Alright, call me when you get here”
“Sure” Jade said before disconnecting the call. It seems she has to make her way to Acrosoft.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 14
Episode 14
Hillary was infuriated by Jake’s word to her. She kept thinking about it after she left the company.
‘Less screentimes?’ She sighed angrily at the thought of that.
She was really vexed because Jake’s words to her were true. She had been in the entertainment industry for over 20 years but she was yet to have a major break.
You know when they say ‘the truth is bitter so it hurts’. This was such a case.
She had only starred in small movies and even when she did, she mostly acted as a cameo with lesser screen time. That has been one of the reasons she had married Henry Beau. She needed to make a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She used his influence and affluence to star in some big productions. But their performance at the box office were always poor.
She had taken a break from the entertainment industry after Henry died, because things were not the same after his death. But she somehow still remained active by going to various TV shows as a special guest. She’d never allow herself to fade off with time. Never!
She had a thing for spot lights.
“How dare he say that to my face!?” She said angrily as her hands balled into a fist.
She picked up her phone and dialled a certain number.
“Why are you calling me now?” a voice asked from the other side of the phone. It was grandfather Beau’s
“When are you going to do what we talked about?” Hillary replied with a question of her own. There was no reason for pleasantries between them since she knew how much he disliked her.
“And what did we talk about?” Grandfather Beau asked nonchalantly.
“I’m not in the mood to play around father in-law. You know what am talking about” Hillary replied as she scowled. She knew grandfather Beau was not going to give in to her request easily but she also wasn’t an easy woman.
“Hillary there is no space for you there. You were lucky enough to lay your hands on a couple of shares after Henry died and that was out of my own good will, so don’t push your luck. Live your life with what you’ve got. Don’t be greedy” He replied before ending the call. He was cautious about not having another heated argument with her, since the last one had spiked his heart condition.
Hillary vexed when she heard the phone beep signifying her that the call has ended. She felt like smashing her phone. Did he just say she was greedy? That she got her shares out of his good will? What was she to do with that measly number of shares?
She took a deep breath to calm herself down. She wasn’t going to give up.
***********
After concluding his job at the office, Jake stepped into the lounge of his office and changed his clothes into something less formal.
He put on a black turtled neck long sleeved shirt which he tucked in a black fitted jean. He grabbed a brown colored trench coat to match his clothes. He paired his outfit with a pair of black shoes and a gold plated patek Philippe wristwatch.
He ruffled his hair slightly with his hand letting a few strands fall on his face. He looked completely gorgeous.
He was startled when he saw Blake lying lazily on a sofa, playing with his phone as soon as he stepped out the lounge.
“What are you doing here?” Jake asked as he walked towards him. Blake stared at him stunningly without answering his question. He was stunned by how handsome Jake was looking. Yes, he sees him everyday, but today he looked extraordinarily gorgeous. His casual Korean style clothing suited him perfectly. Jake smiled when he saw his brother stunned look on him.
“How do I look?” Jake asked, then turned around in front of Blake to display his outfit.
“Usual” Blake replied with a hint of envy, while Jake scoffed. How can his brother look more handsome than him? But the truth was Blake did not lose a bit to Jake when it came to looks. But Jake was at an advantage because of his tall height and good body, which made him extremely attractive.
“Where are you going?” Blake asked curiously.
“Out” Jake replied nonchalantly as he picked up his phone and started for the door.
“Can I come with?” Blake asked excitedly as he hurried up to Jake who was already at the door.
“No!”
“But why?” Blake asked with a sad face. Jake turned to him and shook his head before walking out of the office. But Blake followed behind.
“I really want to come with” Blake insisted.
“Okay”
“Really?” Blake asked with a wide smile.
“If you’re ready to hang out with Rick and the guys” Jake said with a mischievious smile. He knew how Blake hated hanging out with Rick and Mike. They derived pleasure in teasing him endlessly. Blake slowed down his steps when he heard Jake. He immediately changed his mind about going. He’d rather sit at home and do nothing than hang out with those conceited and highly promiscuous fellows. He joined Jake as they both walked into the elevator.
Blake couldn’t help himself from looking at his brother from the side of his eyes.
“Stop ogling” Jake said to him without looking at him.
“Who’s ogling at you?” Blake said defensively as he rolled his eyes inwardly.
‘How conceited’ He thought to himself.
…
Jade arrived the sky tall, glass building of Acrosoft. She whipped her phone out of her bag and placed a call across to Amy as she walked into the lobby.
“Are you here?” Amy asked as soon as she answered the phone.
“Yeah I’m at the lobby” Jade replied.
“Hold on, I’ll be there shortly” Amy said as she hurriedly hanged up.
Jade had only dropped her call when her eyes suddenly fell upon a familiar figure walking out of the elevator. She stood transfixed with her phone still close to her ears. Her heart missed a thousand beat when those familiar Hazel brown met hers. Her mind suddenly went blank as she stared at him in a daze.
_________
Jake was taken aback when his eyes fell on the lady before him. He stopped in his strides as be stared at the person few meters away from him. He wasn’t so sure he was seeing things clearly. He hasn’t been thinking so much about his mystery girl that he might have started hallucinating right? Or has his brain imprinted the image of her?
A million thought were going through his mind as he stood rooted to the ground with his gaze fixed on her.
“Bro isn’t that the lady in red?” Blake asked uncertainly. He wasn’t so sure about it, but he confirmed his suspicions when he noticed his brother few feets behind staring intensely at the same person. He couldn’t forget the face of such a person, who was brave to approach his brother for the first time. It has never been in the history of Jake’s promiscuous life that a girl approached him and he agreed.
Her face was definitely worth remembering.
Jake turned to look at his brother before returning his gaze back to Jade. If his brother could see her, then he wasn’t seeing things. She was there for real. But was she doing here?
It was at this point that Jake took notice of her fornal outfit and how beautiful she looked in it. She looked different in formal wear than she looked in her little red gown. She was looking more…beautiful than the first time he met her. The second time couldn’t even be counted, since she had been crying under the rain.
He kept his gaze fixed on her as he kept pondering what she might be doing here at Acrosoft. He locked eyes with her as his legs slowly directed themselves to her direction.
Jade was confused as she looked at the man she had wished she would never meet. They’ve met twice and now? Thrice? What kind of luck did she have?
Meeting the same man you’ve slept with and who paid you for the services rendered was not something she wanted for herself.
She had done something she’d forever regret in her life, made a sacrifice that has ripped her heart into pieces. But meeting the same man was a constant reminder of her stupid she was. He might even consider her as a hooker right? Like who wouldn’t?
AUTHOR- What is she thinking? Didn’t he take her virginity? So how would he consider her as a hooker?
Jade heart rate exceeded it’s normal range, as it continued to beat frantically. She wished she could just dissappear. Or the earth should just open and swallow her up.
She felt like turning around to run as far as her feet could carry her. Her heart accelerated drastically as Jake took his first step towards her direction. She watched as he slowly took more steps towards her. She should run right? She felt like running away with each step Jake took.
“Hey, Lets go” Jade jerked back to life as Amy appeared before her with her usual smile.
“Let’s go” Amy repeated when Jade didn’t bulge. Jade slowly nodded her head as she gave Jake one last look before following Amy out of the building.
She heaved a sigh of relief as she walked out of the company. She had felt blood rushing to her head when Jake walked towards her direction. She wouldn’t have known what to say or do had he approached her. She definitely wouldn’t be comfortable around him.
Not only had she slept with him, he had paid her too. He had also seen and helped her out on the worst day of her life. How was she to face him? She felt thankful to Amy for saving her.
Amy was oblivious of what she had done. She had taken one of the employees elevator which was closer to Jade, while Jake has taken his private elevator. If only she knew how she had saved Jade today?
Amy noticed Jade off expression and she couldn’t help but ask as they walked to Eddy’s spot.
“Are you okay?” Amy asked with concern.
“Yeah” Jade replied with a stiff smile. She was still trying to recuperate from that earth shattering situation that almost took place.
How would she have explained knowing Jake to Amy? She still hasn’t told Amy about what she had done, and she didn’t think she’d ever be able to. ‘But why was he there of all places?’ She asked herself.
Jake who had abruptly stopped on his tracks when Jade turned and left, was still staring at the same spot she had been standing seconds ago.
He felt like calling out to her and stopping her, but it seemed he had suddenly lost his voice. He watched as she walked out of his sight.
He turned to Blake who was standing few feets away from him.
“Who was that? He asked curiously.
“Who? Lady in red?” Blake asked uncertainly. He was wondering why Jake was asking him such a question. How was he to know her, when he was the one who had spent a night with her.
“No, the other lady?” He asked frustratedly.
“Oh! I don’t know her personally, but I think she’s a staff here” Blake replied.
“What department?”
“HR. You’re not thinking of sleeping with her, are you? Don’t you have a rule of not messing around with employees?” Blake asked curiously, while Jake glared at him.
HR? So the mystery girl who has been struggling to get out of his system was within reach. But what should he do with this piece of information? He was utterly confused.
He made up his mind to let fate bring her again. ‘If she shows up again, I won’t let her go’ He said to himself. It was about time he settled what ever feeling this woman was stirring up in him.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 15
Episode 15
Jade and Amy arrived the popular Eddy’s spot, which made the most amazing Pizza in the whole city. Eddy’s spot was one of most popular Mexican restaurant that serves the tastiest Mexican delicacies in the city.
Jade inhaled the delicious aroma of different delicacies wafting through the restaurant. She didn’t pass for a gourmet but she loved the ideology of a tasty and well plated meal.
They both took their seats at one of the tables at the far end of the restaurant, close to the glass windows. It was Jade’s favorite sitting spot whenever she came to the restaurant. She hasn’t visited this place in a while, since Cale never had the stomach for spicy food, she had deprived herself of eating here.
One of the plenty sacrifices she made that solidified how foolish she had been.
Speaking of sacrifices, her mind wandered back to the man she had unexpectedly encountered for the third time. Something in her soul almost felt dampened but she quickly composed herself when a waiter approached them with a menu.
“So what are you ordering?” Jade asked Amy as she received the menu from the waiter.
“Just get me whatever you’re eating” Amy said distractedly as she scrolled through her phone without glancing at Jade.
“Two Fried chicken quesidila, Nachos, banana split and a meat lover’s pizza to go. Thank you” Jade said with a small smile. She glanced back at Amy who was grinning to herself as she continued to scroll through her phone.
Jade was a bit curious. She stretched her neck to take a peep at whatever Amy was grinning at.
“Amy walker! Are you trying to become a pervert?” Jade suddenly asked with raised brows while Amy jerked as she hurriedly put away her phone, but she wasn’t fast enough for Jade not to have seen it.
“What do you mean by I’m becoming a pervert?” Amy asked with a mock frown, while Jade rolled her eyes.
“Did you think I didn’t see you trying to kiss that picture right now?” Jade asked shooting her a look that said “let me hear you deny that’.
“I wasn’t” Amy snapped at her as she felt a bit flustered.
“That’s the same picture you were drooling over the other day right?” Jade asked again not minding Amy’s embarrassed look, making Amy glare at her slightly. She sighed wearily when she saw Jade’s determined look. It didn’t look like Jade was going to let her be.
“I wasn’t drooling over his picture neither did I try to kiss him” She replied defensively, piqueing Jade’s interest even more.
“Ya right!” Jade exclaimed sarcastiscally. “Tell me you weren’t trying to lick your screen, if I hadn’t said something to stop you”
“Jeez Jade, would you stop” Amy said in a hushed tone as she eyed Jade.
“No I won’t. Because he is a really handsome man and I can tell you have a thing for him” Jade said with a tone of finality. She cocked her brows at Amy in a way that dared her to refute.
“I don’t have a ‘thing’ for him” Amy refuted, emphasizing on the word ‘thing’.
“But you know you do….and I know that also. Else you wouldn’t keep his picture in your phone. And you’d definitely won’t grin sheepishly at it like a high school girl, if you don’t have a thing on him” Jade said thoughtfully making Amy stare at her quietly. Of course Amy was her best friend, thus it was expected of her to know her best.
Amy has never been the one to keep a guy’s picture in her phone, because she fit into the class of a mini workaholic. She had never had the time….or rather, she had never allowed herself to be distracted by a man. But now it seems she was letting herself.
“So What’s his name?” Jade asked with a curious smile. They paused when the waiter returned with their orders.
“Thank you” They both said simultaneously.
Jade gave Amy a questioning look when she didn’t reply her question after the waiter left.
“Bla…ke Beau” Amy answered stutteringly as her cheeks began to color. Calling his name was enough to make her blush.
Jade looked at her as her brain tried to decipher the name she had just heard. It sounded familiar…She was sure she had heard it before.
Jade gasped when a light bulb flicked in her head. “Isn’t that your boss? The boss you’ve always mentioned about how good looking he was?” Jade asked in surprise while Amy slowly bobbed her head up and down.
“Is that Mr dreamy? He’s really that handsome? Can I have a look?” Jade asked again. She couldn’t believe Amy was still hooked on the same guy after a long time. She had thought Amy had forgotten about him and zoned back to her workalholic realm.
Amy hurriedly pulled out her phone and passed it over to Jade, who quickly took it and looked at the handsome picture of Blake on her friend’s phone.
“Who would have thought Mr dreamy was this…dreamy…I mean cute. Amy I like him already. He looks like a good guy” Jade said firmly after a quick look at Blake’s picture
“You like him because he’s a good guy or because he’s good looking?” Amy asked cocking her brow. Was it not to everyone’s knowledge that Jade had a thing for handsome guys.
“Well…all I’m trying to say is.” She let her words trail off. “Who’d date an ugly guy?” Jade asked when she couldn’t come up with a tangible reason.
“You” Amy said looking at Jade defiantly.
“Come on you don’t have to bring Cale into this issue right now. See my decision to date Cale as youthful exuberance. And just so you know, Cale wasn’t ugly, you just didn’t like him” Jade said defensively.
Amy was surprised by Jade’s response. She had thought Jade might avoid taking Cale’s name in her mouth, but she had just surprisingly talked about him with nonchalance. Amy smiled in her mind, when she saw how quick her friend was moving on.
“You still haven’t told me about what happened” Amy said suddenly. She still didn’t know why Jade had broken up with Cale, but her main purpose of asking was to divert Jade’s attention to something else. She wasn’t really comfortable talking about her dreamy man.
But Jade caught on her trick, “Don’t worry Amy, I’ll tell you about it. But now, let’s talk about you”
“So do you really like him?” Jade asked curiously.
Jade earnestly hoped Amy truly liked him, and not that she was just physically attracted to him. She smiled when Amy nodded her head affirmatively.
“Then why haven’t you spoken to him?” Jade asked in confusion. Amy was a really bold girl, she’d never strike one to be a shy type. She always took the lead in everything she does, and she was expecting her to do same when it came to relationships. So what could be wrong? Jade frowned slightly when Amy’s countenance dropped by a certain degree.
“He doesn’t notice me” Amy replied in a dull manner, she lowered her head as she scooped a spoon of banana split in her mouth. Blake was an easy going guy who openly flirted with every lady at the company, her included. But he just wasn’t interested in her or anyone else.
Amy didn’t know why she felt the way she did for Blake. She didn’t even know when it all started, but all she knew was that she tends to develop a cardiac problem when he was around her. The air suddenly becomes thin and only his presence could be felt in the atmosphere when he came around.
Sometimes she had to reprimand herself about how childish her thoughts about him were. But one can’t really control what the heart feels.
Blake was euphoric to her. He was one of the reasons why she loved her job more than she wanted to.
Amy had tried stopping herself from liking Blake, but all her efforts were to no avail. She had moved for intensely staring at him at the office to stealing pictures of him.
It sometimes felt depressing when he still doesn’t notice her, but Amy was comforted that he was still single and he hasn’t been seen with any girl apart from times when he openly flirts with the staff, but that was okay with Amy. As a matter of fact that was one of the qualities she liked about him.
She loved a man who has his ways with words especially with his woman.
Her typical man: ‘Flirty’
Jade felt sad when Amy said those words with a sullen expression. She would really love to see her friend dating again. Amy has been traumatized by her past relationship, it was high time she moved past it.
“You should make him notice you” Jade suggested making Amy to look at her in confusion. She didn’t understand what Jade meant by that.
Jade sighed at how daft her friend could be sometimes. “Talk to him. I think you should approach him and I’m sure he’ll take a note of you” Jade adviced.
“But what if…” But Jade cut in.
“There are no what if’s. You wouldn’t know until you try. So don’t focus on the negatives and look at the positive side” Jade said as she looked intensely at Amy. She couldn’t believe she’d see this side of Amy. The part of her that was scared of being rejected. She has seen it before, when she had her heart broken by her ex.
“Okay…I guess I’ll have to talk to him, but that would be on his birthday” Amy said with a small smile. She felt encouraged to talk to Blake. And his birthday would create the perfect opportunity for her to talk to him.
“Better” Jade replied with a smile of her own. This was the Amy she liked. The beautiful and bold Amy Walker.
“Now tell me what happened with Cale” Amy asked again.
“He’s getting married to Stephanie” Jade said indifferently.
“What?” Amy exclaimed in surprise as her eyes widen in surprise. That was huge.
“His cousin?” Amy asked in disbelief.
“Apparently they are not related” Jade replied as she ate. Sincerely she really didn’t want to talk about Cale and his lying ass, because she wasn’t truly sure she had totally gotten over it yet. But one thing she was sure of was that, she doesn’t love him anymore. And all she felt towards him was indifference and nothing more.
“That bastard. I guess a jerk like him deserves a raunchy woman like that” Amy said with a hint of disgust hovering over her words.
“Amy can we not talk about them anymore” Jade said with a pleading look. She was beginning to get irritated by their names.
“Okay” Amy replied with a shrug as they continued with their food.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 16
Episode 16
*GRANDHILL UNDERGROUND CLUB*
“And it’s Jake Beau people” Mike greeted gleefully as Jake walked into the VIP lounge where himself and Rick were seated. They all had a round of hug and fist bumps before sitting down on the sofa.
“You look good man” Rick said glancing at Jake.
“You both look great too” He replied with a small smile. He had missed this bunch of knock heads.
“I heard you got a new project and it was approved by the board?” Mike asked.
“And how did you know?” Jake asked.
“My dad told me so. You really are a show off. You’ve just returned and you’re already impressing my father and I haven’t had a moment of rest since you returned. Can’t you be a little bit useless” Mike pleaded with a painful expression.
“I can’t blame your father. We know you lazy around all day along. I would have probably given you up for adoption if I were your father. How useless!” Rick said with a mock smile.
“That’s the pot calling the kettle black. You’re worst than me. So keep your mouth shut” Mike fired back as he eyed him. He couldn’t believe Rick was actually saying that to him. What a hypocrite!
Jake couldn’t help but laugh at their silly exchange. He was amused that nothing had changed between them after many years. Except of course Daniel who was now married.
“Jake I got you some babes. The ones with the 36B cup and sexy body. This is my welcome home gift to you” Mike said with cheeky smile.
“What about me?” Rick asked.
“Fuck off” Mike spat out with a glare.
“I don’t think I want to get laid tonight” Jake declined.
“What??” Rick and Mike said simultaneously with a disbeliving look. When has Jake Beau ever turned down an opportunity to get laid.
“I just want to hang out with your guys. Come on, don’t give me that look” Jake said amusedly when he observed their surprised look on him. He just wasn’t feeling up to it. He also didn’t know why.
“You’re not sick, are you?” Rick asked with concern. This was so unlike Jake. He really couldn’t believe Jake had turned down Mike’s offer.
“Just shut up and let’s have fun” Jake said. They both looked at him incredulously. Tonight was a night to be remembered. A night Jake came to the club without humphing a woman. What a day!
_______
Jade returned home with a box of pizza after dinner with Amy at the restaurant. She had just walked into the sitting room when Kelvin pounced on her and quickly grabbed the box of pizza from her hands.
“Wow..Thanks sis” He said gleefully as he opened the box and took a big bite from a slice.
Jade looked at him amusedly.”Did you ask if that was yours?” Jade asked with a fond smile.
“Is it mine?” He asked rhetorically with his stuffed mouth. Jade shot him a disbeliving look as she shook her head. This brother of her’s was something else.
“I thought as much” He said without glancing back at Jade as he returned back to playing his game.
“You’re back” Grace said as she walked out of the kitchen. She had hurried out when she heard Jade’s voice.
“Yes mom” She replied.
“Hold on, dinner will be ready soon” Grace informed her before turning around to return back to the kitchen.
“I already had dinner” She said stopping her mother. “I had dinner with Amy. You should make for just yourself, since your son won’t be able to after eating that” She added, glancing at Kelvin.
“I guess it’s just me then” Grace said looking at Kelvin who was engrossed in playing a video game. She chuckled at how funny his mouth moved every time he eats pizza. It was his favorite.
“Did you see him at work?” Grace asked the mind bugging question that has been tormenting her all day. She has been really anxious after Jade left for work in the morning. She wondered how her child’s life will be at work, when she worked with an ex who shattered her heart.
Jade didn’t need anybody to tell her who she was referring to. “Ya I did” Jade replied as she walked to take her seat on the couch. Her feets felt sore.
“And?” Grace asked curiously as she followed her.
“And nothing” Jade shrugged as she raised her gaze to her mother who was expecting her to say more. “He apologized and said it was a misunderstanding” She added.
“Do you believe that?” Grace asked.
“No! I don’t believe that. I know what I saw. And why did he lie about Stephanie being a relative? I guess it was just to fool me” Jade said.
“Well that’s over. Just keep your distance from him. Someone like him can only bring you more pain” Grace adviced.
“Sis if that jerk comes close to you again, tell me, I’ll give him a really good beating” Kelvin said. Who knew he had actually being listening while he was busy playing?
“Yes sir” Jade said with mock politeness.
“I’ll be in my room” She said before heading to her room.
She walked out of the bathroom and was shocked to find a black suit jacket lying on her bed. She picked it up and looked closely at it wondering why it was laid there. It wasn’t on her bed before she went into the bathroom minutes ago.
She put her on her pink pyjamas before going to her mother to ask who owned the jacket and why it was on her bed.
“Mom, who owns this?” Jade asked holding the jacket in front of her.
“You should know that. Why are you asking me? It was among the dirty clothes so I washed it” Grace answered with a confused look on her face. She had thought Jade had brought the Jacket home. Maybe it was Cale’s.
Jade was confused. Why was she to know where the jacket came from? She stood there staring at the jacket, while trying to joggle her memory.
“Why are you both looking like you’re solving a puzzle?” Kelvin asked when he saw the puzzling look on their faces.
“Kelvin is this yours?” Jade asked making Kelvin look at her confusedly.
“How would I fit into something that big. And why am I the only one who knows that is a very expensive suit Jacket” Kelvin asked them and looked at them like they were kidergarten children he had to lecture. He could tell because he was the one who had dropped it in the laundry basket when Jade returned home with it.
Jade closely examined the jacket. She had not really noticed it was a branded Gucci suit until Kelvin mentioned it.
‘But where did it come from? And why did her mother think it came from her?’. If she had not broken up with Cale, she would have thought it belonged to him. But this was a suit jacket which would cost some thousands of dollars, which Cale definitely won’t be able to afford. So who owns it?
Kelvin noticed the confused look on his sister’s face. He knew she was thinking about the Jacket.
“Didn’t you bring it home, the day you were drenched in the rain? It was drapped around your shoulder when you arrived”
Jade thought about it for a few seconds when her eyes suddenly widen in shock. “It…It belonged to him??’ she said in her mind. She hurriedly turned around and went into her room.
“I guess she remembers” Kelvin said with a shrug before plumping down on the sofa close to his mother.
“Mom can I get a body massage?” He asked with a pleading smile, placing his legs on Grace’s thigh.
“And why would I do that?” Grace asked with raised brows.
“Because my body aches”
“What did you do?”
“I went to high school and I did alot of assignments which they give students like us” He said as he placed his mother’s hand on his legs, in a way that asked her to just give him a massage.
“Then you can ask your teachers to do that. I didn’t give those assignments to you” Grace said as she stood up to leave.
“But you sent me to school?” Kelvin yelled behind her.
“Ah! I guess that was a mistake after all. You should probably quit then. Good night Kelvin, momma loves you”
“No you don’t!” Kelvin yelled with a frown as he watched her leave.
How did something like this happen? How could she have taken his jacket? This were the questions going through Jade’s mind as she sat down on the edge of her bed. Was this the reason he had tried approaching her earlier when she had visited Amy? OMG!, and she had ran away? How was she to return his Jacket now? She searched the pockets of the Jacket to look for a card or something she could use to reach him. She sighed dejectedly when her search came out futile.
What was happening to her right now? How did she find herself in this kind of situation? A situation where she had a souvenir from a one night stand she was trying to avoid because she was ashamed of what had happened. But now she has to return a jacket to the same guy? How was she even going to do that?
Why was all this happening to her?! Was the heaven trying to make a soap opera out of her life?
First she had slept with a man she barely knew because she wanted to save her boyfriend. Secondly she had her heart broken right after that. Thirdly, she kept seeing the same man everywhere she went. And now she had his Jacket? Was this a joke?!
This sort of things only happened in movies or novels. She pulled her hair in frustration before falling back on the bed. She laid there staring at the celling. What was she supposed to do?
She had not expected this kind of outcome at all.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 17
Episode 17
“Grandfather, it’s cold out here and you really should be in bed now” Blake said as he approached his grandfather who was seated at the balcony alone.
“Come sit” Grandfather Beau said patting on the chair close to him.
“Do think Jake is happy working here? I mean with Hillary around and all?” Grandfather Beau asked curiously. He knew how Jake had felt after his father’s death and and he hasn’t been the same since then.
“Sincerely I don’t know grandfather. You know Jake is his own person. He hides away all his emotions and never talks about how he truly feels” Blake said with a slight frown, while his grandfather sighed.
“Do you think he’d ever get a girlfriend for himself?” He asked again, making Blake chuckle.
“That’s like asking if satan would attend service on Sunday?” Blake said before bellowing into laughter. Grand father Beau glared at him. Jake? girlfriend? why does those words feel immiscible?
“So should I arrange a wife for him then?”
“No way!” Blake yelled making his grandfather narrow his eyes at him.
“Why?” Grandfather Beau asked.
“Because you’re trying to kill my brother” Blake said with a serious face. He couldn’t believe his grandfather was planning on making Jake’s life unbearable.
“Then I’ll get one for you instead” Grandfather Beau said with seriousness.
“What?” Blake asked with wide eyes. How did it move from Jake to him?
“At least Jake has series of girls hovering around him, but you—”
“How is that better?” Blake cut in. He didn’t understand how his brother’s promiscuous life was better than his?
“You’ve never had a girlfriend” Grandfather Beau pointed out.
“Are you really my grandfather? How can you compare both situations?” Blake asked in disbelief. How was his grandfather’s thought pattern designed?
“Well I guess I’m not. Go get yourself a girlfriend before your birthday or I’ll find you a wife” He threatened making Blake look at him in disbelief.
“But that’s only a few days away”
“Then you better hurry” Grandfather Beau said firmly. He loved when he had such exchange with Blake. It was extremely satisfying when he got under his skin.
“You’re unbelievable. This conversation was never about Jake. You just love picking on me since you know you can’t bully my brother” Blake complained with a pained expression.
“Who’s bullying you?” Jake’s voice came from behind them. They both turned to look at him standing by the door.
“You can ask your grandfather” Blake said before storming off. He had wanted to ask why Jake was home so early but he wasn’t in the mood for that.
“What did you do to him?” Jake asked as he watched Blake leave with heavy steps.
“Don’t mind him and his childishness” Grandfather Beau said dismissively. He wasn’t sure he wanted to tell Jake he had talked about finding a wife for him. “You’re back early” Grandfather Beau said with a surprised tone.
“And why do you make it sound so strange?” Jake asked with cocked brows.
“Nothing” Grandfather Beau said with a shrug.
As much as Jake wanted to party with his friends, he just couldn’t. His mind kept flashing back to the lady he had seen at the lobby. Why had one night with her altered everything in him. Something about him wanted to see her again. He wasn’t so sure he wanted this sort of feelings at all, but with each passing day, he still hasn’t been able to get her off his system.
It seems his whole nervous system was telling him he wanted her again. It was more like his body needed her again. He couldn’t focus at the club, so he had excused himself with a lie of having so much work to do at home. He didn’t want to stress himself out by sleeping with another woman to clear his head. The last time he did, he felt extremely regretful.
“Blake’s birthday is coming soon, hope you’re making plans for it?” His grandfather asked.
“Not yet, but I will. And can you go to bed now? It’s really cold out here” He said as he walked closer to help his grandfather stand up.
“I’m not incapacitated” Grandfather Beau said with a frown.
“I know, but I can’t help but worry about you every time” He replied.
Grandfather Beau felt grateful for having two grandchildren that cared about him.
Truthfully, he was less grateful for Blake. That boy was just too lazy for his own good.
___________
“Sir we’re about to descend. Can I open the window shield?” A beautiful hostess whispered sultrily into Lair’s ears. The attendants voice woke him up as he slowly flickered his eyes open from his sleep.
“Yeah” He said in a hoarse voice that sounded husky to the attendant. His deep and manly voice slowly made her cheeks heat up. The man was looking beautiful. She and her fellow attendants had stolen quick glances at him while he slept. He had looked innocent and content while sleeping.
As the attendant opened the window shield slowly, he squinted his eyes. The morning sunrays started spilling it’s magic on his face.
“Thank you” He said to her as he pulled up his dark sunglasses to hide those crystal green eyes from the sun.
She pouted sadly in a not so noticeable manner as she walked away when Lair didn’t pay her any attention. You can’t blame a girl for trying. Who told him to be so handsome?
He didn’t look like he had just performed a 10 hour whipple surgery and also held a 3 hour psychopharmacology lecture, before boarding his flight back home. All his stress wiped away when he thought about all the people he was going to see.
After landing, Lair took his check-in luggage and walked towards the exit. He was home at last. He took in the familiar scent of the city and it felt nostalgic.
He craned his neck in search of something or someone in the crowd. He looked for a placard with his name on it…not that she needed it anyway, but who could blame him, when his sister can be a little overboard. He frowned when he couldn’t find her. He angrily picked up his phone from his pocket and dialled a number. After some few seconds it connected.
“Amy Walker, you’d better have a good explanation for not being here” He said seethingly, making her totally surprised. Where was she supposed to be?
“Why am I not where?” She asked in confusion. He rolled his eyes and sighed exasperatedly when he realized she had totally forgotten about his arrival.
“At the airport!” He reminded her in a stern voice. Amy’s eyes widened in shock. ‘Damn’ she cussed. How could she have forgotten. She had promised to pick him up from the airport before going to work.
“I’m sorry big brother, but…,umm…” She stuttered miserably when she couldn’t come up with an excuse.
“You know what? Why don’t you take a taxi home while I ask mom to make you your favorite meal. Hmm?” She said in an attempt to pacify him.
“You better not return home after work, or else…” He threatened without completing his sentence. He ended the call without waiting for her to say anything. He angrily flagged down a taxi and hopped into it.
Lair Walker was Amy’s elder brother. He has been absent from the country due to the nature of his profession. Lair was a pharmacologist and a surgeon. He had been able to bag some academical achievements in the medical field in his 30 odd years. He couldn’t believe he was back home for just a month.
This trip was for his 1 month leave from work at the hospital, but he was still going to lecture as a pharmacologist since lecturing was less time consuming.
Lair was excited to be home, he couldn’t wait to see his parents, sister and his most cherished person. The thought of seeing her alone made the neurons of his brain to fire excessively.
*********
“Miss Jade you have a visitor here at the lobby” The receptionist informed Jade via the intercom.
“Okay. Who’s that?” Jade asked back.
“Mrs Helen Stuart” The receptionist answered.
“I’ll be there” Jade replied before disconnecting the call. She held a smile on her face as she hurried down to the lobby. She had not been opportuned to see Helen since the incident at the hospital.
“Mom!” She called out with a sweet smile as she embraced Helen who was sitting at the lobby.
“My beautiful Jade” Helen said with an equal smile of her own. She pulled away from the hug as she slowly observed Jade’s before pulling her back into another hug.
“I’m so sorry Jade” She said as her eyes slowly began to turn red.
“For what?” Jade asked pulling away from the hug.
“For everything. For how Cale had treated you. It’s all my fault. I should I’ve taught him better” She said in a croaked voice as a tear slipped down her cheek.
“Mom, don’t do this. It’s not your fault things went bad between Cale and I. Just see it as it wasn’t meant to be”
“Please don’t be angry at me okay. I’d never be a party of such deceit” She didn’t want Jade to have the impression that she had played a role in deceiving her. This was the reason for her visit and also to apologize on behalf of her son. She loved Jade with all her heart. If her womb had been blessed to have children, a child like Jade would be all she’d ask for.
To her Jade was an ideal daughter, daughter in-law and friend. She couldn’t help but feel envious of Jade’s mother. It was her loss on missing out on such an opportunity to have Jade in her family
“Never! I’d never be angry at you, not when you have been nothing but sweet to me. Stop apologizing okay” Jade comforted her as she wiped her tears away. She’ll never blame Helen in all this. It was her fault for being hopelessly and blindly in love with Cale especially when everyone has been against it from the start.
“Promise to keep in touch with me okay?” She said with pleading eyes as her heart clenched tightly. She felt like she had lost a daughter.
“Sure mom. I’ll always keep in touch. Now stop crying” Jade said with an assuring smile.
“Okay” She nodded. “You should return back to work, I don’t want to keep you” She said as she stood up from her seat.
“Mom, take good care of yourself” Jade said with a sad face as she stood up as well.
“I will. And you too” She said with a small smile not quite reaching her eyes. She was heart broken for Jade. She knee how Jade had loved her son and her.
“Jade what about the loan you took?” She asked. She hasn’t forgotten about it. And she didn’t think it was right for Jade to pay back such loan not after what her son had done.
“It’s fine mom. It has been settled” She said with a conivincing smile.
“But how?” Helen asked curiously. She couldn’t believe Jade would be able to settle such amount of debt in weeks.
“Don’t worry about that. Believe me” Jade said with a reassuring smile.
“Okay” She said before hugging Jade tightly again. “I’ll leave now” Helen said as Jade nodded.
Jade suddenly felt a pang in her chest. She had not only loved Cale but also his family. Is it so easy to forget someone you’ve loved dearly? To forget all the memories made? She was acting all tough and all because it is the right thing to do, but that doesn’t mean she still didn’t feel the pain in her heart.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 18
Episode 18
Blake was surprised to see who had leisurely walked into his office with a smile. This sort of visit was unusual. Jake was the last person he had expected to ever step into his office. Not that he wouldn’t, but Jake had the affairs of the company to run and he knew how hectic it must be for him.
“Wow, the sun must has risen from the west for me to have the almighty CEO here. What brings the emperor from his highly esteemed throne to visit his subjects” Blake said with a teasing smile.
“The lazy and nosy subjects at that” Jake added as he took his seat across Blake’s desk.
“Seeing you sitting there, someone might actually think you’re being useful to the company” Jake said with a smirk.
“It’s not every company that’s opportuned to have a less valuable but skilled staff like myself. I might be lazy but everybody loves me and my God gifted Laziness. Don’t forget being lazy is a great skill” He replied with a serious face. Jake shook his head at the height of his brother’s shamelessness. Who else other than Blake would be so proud of being lazy.
“I’m not here to justify your level of laziness. What plans do you have for your birthday?” Jake asked the question that have brought him over.
“I don’t have any plans” Blake replied with a shrug.
“So you don’t want anything? Party? Gift?” He asked raising a brow. ‘Gift?’ Something in Blake’s eyes lit up at the sound of that.
“Would I get any gift I ask for?” Blake asked with a malicious smile. Jake didn’t like the sound of Blake’s words neither did he like the look in his eyes. Something in him tells him Blake was about to ask for something outrageous.
“Lets hear it first”
“But you have to give it no matter what” Blake said.
“You have 5 seconds” Jake said impatiently.
“I want your Lamborghini veneno” Blake said with a nervous smile.
“Then we can celebrate your birthday when you die” Jake replied him standing up.
“It’s just a car! Will you really choose a car over me? And just so you know, you’re older than me, so you’ll naturally die first” He replied with a frown, as he scowled at him.
“You can forget being my brother if you keep asking for my car every year”
“It’s not my fault. You asked me what I wanted” Blake replied with a mock glare.
“And all you could ask for, was my car?” Jake asked cocking a brow.
“You don’t drive it. Lack of use will make it go bad” He said defensively. Jake couldn’t believe his ears right now.
“You can always have another birthday. This year…just skip it” Jake said with a pointed look as he turned to leave.
“What?” Blake widened his eyes as he watched Jake turn his back to leave. ‘Stingy’ that was the only word he could use to describe his brother right now.
“Wait!” He called out making Jake stop to look back at him. “I’ll have a party, but you have to keep my company all night. And you don’t get to pick a woman and dissappear on me” Blake demanded.
Jake looked at him incredulously. Why did he think his brother was being possessive and jealous. “Is that all?” He asked. He is partially to blame for his childishness when he has always indulged him.
“No” Blake shook his head making Jake look at him impatiently. “And I want your Bugatti la voiture noire” He said anxiously. He prayed his brother won’t turn him down again. It was not his fault that his brother was a car fanatic and he had access to more money than him.
Jake stared at him silently like he was considering his request.
“You’re just a greedy bastard. But I’ll consider giving you a Maybach Exelero. No more no less” He said with a tone of finality. He wondered why they always had to negotiate gifts every year.
“Fine” Blake gruffed. “And the party?” Blake asked.
“Invite your friends and pick a place” He replied as he walked out of Blake’s office. That brother of his has his eyes fixed on his babies. ‘Thief’
**********
Lair was estactic about visiting one of his favorite person’s. He drove straight to Amy’s work place after arriving home. He had refused eating even after his mother pleaded with him to.
“Come on Lair she can wait. You should at least eat something before going to see her” Mrs Walker said when Lair refused to eat after his long trip.
“I’ll do that later”
“But you just returned home”
“I know but I miss my sister” He said with a meaningful smile.
“Yeah right. Like she’s the one you are ecstatic to see” Mrs Walker said rolling her eyes. She was fully aware that Lair will never be this excited to see Amy. All his giddiness was for someone else.
Lair didn’t mind his mother’s words as he gave himself a final look at the mirror before placing a kiss on her cheek, as he walked past her.
He pulled over at the car park of Acrosoft. He made his way to the reception, when he heard someone call his name from behind him.
“Lair Walker?” Lair turned around and frowned slightly when he couldn’t recognize the person standing before him. He looked at him with a confused expression. He wouldn’t deny that the good looking man in front of him looked oddly familiar.
“You don’t remember me?” Blake asked with a smile when he noticed Lair was having a difficult time recognizing him.
“Blake…Blake Beau?” Lair asked with uncertainty. That signature smile was all he needed to put his brain in motion.
“Yes man” Blake replied with a broad grin as they hugged each other.
“You’ve got to be kidding me” Lair said with a broad grin on his face. He couldn’t believe this was Blake. The Blake Beau.
_________
“I heard you were at the office yesterday?” Stephanie asked Cale as soon as he arrived her apartment.
“Yes”
“But why didn’t I see you?” She asked with a straight face. She had heard from a colleague that Cale was spotted at the company, and she had hoped to see him, since she has not been able to, after he was discharged from the hospital. Thanks to Helen of course.
She has been too scared to visit him at home.
“Steph please not now” He said laying back in the couch. He had a throbbing headache already, because of his mother cold attitude towards him. She had not been speaking to him for more than a day now. A cold war has been existing between him and his mother. And he just couldn’t deal with Stephanie’s constant whining.
She had always complained about his close proximity with Jade and his unwillingness to end his relationship with her. And he knew fully well there will be another round of endless whining if she knew he had gone to see Jade at the office.
“What do you mean not now? Why were you at the office?” She asked him with her arms folded across her chest. She frowned when Cale closed his eyes and kept quiet without answering her.
“Did you go to see Jade?” She asked the question she didn’t want to hear the answer to. Because somewhere in her heart she already knew the answer to that.
Cale slowly opened his eyes to look at her. He moved closer to her and slipped a hand around her waist, while he used his other hand to lift her chin up till her eyes met his.
“You shouldn’t bother yourself about such things. I’m here with you right now and that’s all that matters” He said in a soft voice that soothed her slightly. He moved his face closer till there was only a hair space them.
“Didn’t you miss me?” Cale asked in a husky voice. Stephanie looked at him intensely, her eyes searched for the answers she was looking for but all she could see was Cale’s hunger for her. But she still had a question that she wanted to ask.
“Do you love her?” Stephanie asked the ultimate question. She knew she had asked him that question over and over and each reply was a kiss from him.
Cale did exactly as Stephanie had predicted. He claimed her lips with his and kissed her deeply. He didn’t want to answer that question he lacked an answer to. But one thing he needed right at this moment was Stephanie. He deepened the kiss which Stephanie equally met with same passion as she slipped her legs around him to sit on his laps.
This was what he loved about Stephanie, her willingness to give in to every if his advances.
*********
“You’ve got to be kidding me Lair. What are you doing here?” Amy asked with widened eyes. She was surprised to see Lair at her work place, especially when he just arrived the country just few hours ago.
“What do you mean by what am I doing here?” Lair asked her with furrowed brows.
“Didn’t we agree to surprise her?” Lair asked with a frown. He couldn’t believe Amy had forgotten something so important.
“You mean Jade?” Amy asked suspiciously.
“No you. of course Jade. Didn’t you mention she was interning at your place of work?” Lair asked, wondering what was suddenly wrong with his sister. Amy’s jaw dropped when she remembered the lie she had told him about Jade working in same company as her. ‘Oh my God, he’s going to kill me’ She heard herself scream in her head.
“Amy, come on let’s go” He urged her. He frowned when he observed Amy’s eyes darting with guilt. That was her guilty look. It shouldn’t be what he is thinking.
“Amy Walker” Lair called in a cold tone.
“Okay I’m sorry. I was only joking with you. I never knew you’d believe me” She apologized.
“You never knew I’ll believe you? Are you being serious right now?” Lair asked her angrily. Lair wasn’t the type to get angry easily, he has great control over his emotions except when it comes to Jade.
He couldn’t believe he had jumped on the last flight back after series of on call duties and surgeries at the hospital, because he was eager to see Jade. Heaven knows how much he had missed her.
He was the most happiest person when he got the news of Jade’s break up, and the heavens just also approved his leave at the right time.
He had just skipped breakfast just to hurry over for this? A lie? His face formed a scowl as he stared at Amy with angry eyes.
“So tell me where does she work?” Lair asked impatiently. He couldn’t believe his sister would take something so important to him casually.
“I can’t tell you that” Amy replied while avoiding his gaze. She could tell the temperature around him just dropped by 10 degrees.
“Why?”
“Because…Because that wouldn’t give you the full effect of your surprise. I guess it’ll be better if we visit her at home” Amy suggested. She didn’t think it was safe telling him Jade works in same company as Cale. What if he got there and accidentally bumped into Cale? She wouldn’t know what will eventually happen if they did. Though Lair had great control over his emotions, but this was Cale they are talking about here. She’d also love to teach him a lesson or two, talk more of her brother.
There was no way she’d let him visit Jade there.
“Are you sure that’s the reason for not wanting to tell me?” Lair asked suspiciously.
“Of course. Do you think I’d lie to you?” Amy asked accusingly making Lair glare at her. Weren’t they just talking about the lie she had told him. Amy had not registered her last words until she saw Lair’s fierce gaze on her. She looked away from Lair when she realized what she had just said.
“So?” Lair asked.
“We’ll head over to her place after work” Amy replied.
“Fine, I’ll pick you up when you’re done with work” Lair said before turning around to leave. He didn’t want to waste another minute with that sister of his.
“Okay. But I hope you got goodies for me” She called out with a smile as she watched him leave.
.
.
The main story is about to start.
Episode 19
EPISODE 19
Lair couldn’t wait till the close of work to pick up Amy, so they could both pay Jade a surprise visit. It felt like the day was going by slowly, and with each tock of the clock the more impatient he became.
When Amy told him about everything that happened with Jade and Cale, he was mad. All he wanted at that moment was to return home and personally deal with Cale. He couldn’t believe Cale would do something that hurtful to Jade. He thought about calling her, but he had dismissed the idea because he knew he will be visiting home soon. The image of Jade crying made him uneasy.
Jade had been his best friend before he applied for medical school. He still hasn’t forgotten that fateful day, when she had helped him talk his way out from a misunderstanding with some hoodlums who had tried hassling him. He had the impression that she was a fearless and intelligent girl and they became friends since then. They had bonded so well, that he had no room for other female friends.
It wasn’t until Jade gained admission in the same college as Amy, and he had introduced them to each other, did his crazy little sister poach his best friend from him. But he didn’t mind that at all, because the idea of a trio friendship sounded super awesome to him. And that way both girls could always look out for each other in school.
He always visited them during the weekends so they could have fun together. Those were blissful days.
But all that changed when Cale stepped into the picture. He slowly distanced himself when Cale became uncomfortable with his proximity with Jade. Cale wasn’t comfortable with the idea of his girlfriend having a male best friend. Though he never liked Cale for Jade, but he knew Jade loved Cale, and he didn’t want to make things awkward for her by making her choose between him and Cale. Amy’s dislike for Cale increased a million times when he ruined their friendship.
Lair was estactic when he got his leave approved, and immediately he started rescheduling his surgeries and last lectures with his students at the department of pharmacology.
Soon he was heading for Jade’s home with Amy at the passenger’s seat. He had driven to Amy’s office to pick her up before heading there together.
Lair noticed Amy’s awkward look on him as he drove. He turned to look at her briefly before returning his attention to the road.
“Why are you giving me that look?” He asked her when he couldn’t take it anymore.
“You won’t try to steal her back from me right?” Amy asked the question that has been on her mind since Lair came to pick her up.
“What do you mean steal her from you?” He asked taking a quick look at her. “You poached her from me remember?” He said.
“You can’t take her back. She’s mine now! Completely mine” Amy said with a determined look making Lair scoff. He couldn’t believe Amy was being insecure with him. If someone was to hear them now, he/she will think they were love rivals.
“I’m not stealing her from you okay Missy. I just missed her and I missed us hanging out together” He said. And by ‘us’ he meant all three of them.
“So you didn’t miss me?” Amy asked raising her brows at him with her arms folded across her chest.
“Tsk. Who’d miss you with all your craziness?” He asked her with a straight face. He chuckled when he saw her glare at him.
“I missed you too pumpkin” He said with a smile as he slightly ruffled Amy’s hair with his hand.
“Don’t do that” Amy exclaimed as she tried fixing her hair back.
“Trying to look pretty like you have a boyfriend” Lair said in a low voice, which earned him a smack in his arm.
Minutes later they pulled up in front of Jade’s house.
“Hope you brought gifts for us?” Amy asked as they walked to the porch.
“I did bring gifts but they are not for you” Lair replied as he rang the door bell, while Amy eyed him.
“Coming” a voice said from inside. From how tiny and girly it sounded, they knew that was Jade.
Jade was dumbfounded when she opened the door and saw Lair standing there with a huge grin on his face.
“Lair!!” She squealed excitedly as she jumped on him in excitement, hugging him really tightly. She buried her face on the crook of his neck as a tear slipped down her eyes. This were tears of joy. Her heart has missed her best friend sorely.
Lair wrapped his hands around her as he laughed while she hugged him tightly like a koala. He missed her too. Words wouldn’t be enough to express how much they’ve missed each other for the past few years.
Seconds after, Jade recluntantly let go as Lair dropped her on the ground. She looked at him with a gape mouth. She couldn’t believe Lair was standing right in front of her.
“Lair?” She called out again in unbelief. It’s been too long since she last saw him.
“Don’t get too excited, he came back empty handed” Amy said before pushing her way into the house.
“Don’t mind her. She’s just been insecure again” He said with a smile as he took a step closer to Jade who was still staring at him intensely with red eyes. “I’ve missed you Koshka” Lair said as he pulled her into another warm hug.
“I missed you too Lair” Jade said with a smile as she hugged him back.
“I can’t believe you are here?” Jade said with a smile, pulling away from the hug to look at Lair thoroughly. She really couldn’t believe this was Lair in flesh and blood.
“Are you both coming in or what?” Amy called out to them.
“Let’s go in before she comes out with her vixen eyes” Lair said making Jade laugh.
“Amy why didn’t you tell me Lair was coming back?” Jade asked with a small frown.
“Don’t ask me, ask him” Amy said pointing at Lair, while Jade turned to him with a questioning look.
“Come on I just wanted to surprise you” Lair said with a fond smile. “I really missed you and I wanted to see your reaction when you see me, and believe me it was satisfying. You don’t know how impatient I have been all day to see you open your mouth agape with drool slipping down” He said bursting into laughter, while Jade glared at him.
Everybody knew Jade’s signature surprise expression. It was always an epic sight.
“Where’s mom and Kelvin?” He asked when he noticed he hadn’t seen them.
“I just got back from work and I haven’t seen either of them” Jade said with a shrug. She was about calling her mom when she heard the door bell ring.
“Okay”
“So i got news for you ladies” He said as he sat between both ladies before putting his arms across there shoulders.
“What news?” Amy asked disinterestedly.
“We are going for a party this friday”
“Party?” Amy asked with a confused look. When did he return that he already knew of a party.
“Yes party” Lair replied with a smile.
“I thought you just came back, so how did you suddenly get invited to a party?” Jade asked the exact question on Amy’s mind.
“Does that matter?” Lair asked.
“Yes it does” Amy and Jade answered simultaneously. They haven’t forgotten the frat party Lair had invited them to while they were in college. That was one of the worst moments of their life. The images of frat boys doing stuffs that shouldn’t be mentioned or remembered was forever etched in their memory.
“An old acquaintance of mine invited me” He replied curtly.
“So do you mind telling us who this friend…or acquaintance is?” Amy asked emphasizing on the word friend, making Lair seriously glare at her. What’s with her and all the questions?
“He’s just a guy I got to know during my first degree” He replied with a hint of annoyance when he noticed she had another question coming.
“Another frat boy?” Amy asked with furrowed brows. There was no way she was going to relive that awful experience that took place in college.
“No!” Lair exclaimed.
“So explain how you met an old friend that has invited you for a party in less than 24 hours?” Amy asked seriously. Lair growled in annoyance. And someone will ask him why sometimes he wished for a koala pet than a sister like Amy?
He turned to look at Jade and he was surprised to see her eagerly waiting for his reply. He gave her a look that interpreted ‘you too?’, but Jade just shrugged her shoulders. Well he should understand their prejudice, after all he was to blame for it.
“I bumped into him at your company this morning and he invited me for his birthday party” He said as he recollected his conversation with Blake.
——-
“Long time no see. What are you doing here?” Blake asked curiously.
“I’m here to see my sister” Lair replied.
“You’ve got a sister who works here?” Blake asked with surprise.
“Yeah” Lair nodded.
“No way!” Blake exclaimed making Lair chuckle. Blake was still as dramatic as ever.
“I’d love to chat and catch up, but I’ve a birthday to plan…And I’m inviting you. So please bring your sister along” He said with a smile.
“Happy birthday man. So what’s the date?” Lair asked.
“Friday. But I can’t give you a venue yet. It’s kind of spontaneous, and it’s going to be a small gathering. Why don’t I have your number so I can text you the time and venue later” Blake suggested.
“Okay” Lair said, passing his phone to him.
“I’ll text you later. It was nice seeing you again” Blake said.
“Same here” Lair replied before walking away.
——–
“A colleague at my work place?” Amy asked suspiciously.”What’s his name?” She asked again making Lair roll his eyes in frustration.
“His name is Bl…” His voice trailed off when they heard the door open.
“Auntie!” Lair called out excitedly when Grace walked into the house with bags of groceries.
“Lair?” Grace asked in surprise.
“I can’t believe you still look as pretty as ever” He said with a smile as he took the bags from her and hugged her.
“You tease” Grace said with a smile as she playfully smacked his arm.
“Auntie” Amy greeted as she approached them.
“Amy, you are here too” She said with a smile.
She turned to Lair, “When did you get back?” She asked as they walked towards the dinning table.
“Just this morning” He replied.
“Mom, welcome back. Where’s Kelvin?” Jade asked from behind them.
“At the arcade with his friends” Grace told her.
“Auntie I have a request to make” Lair said with a cute smile as he placed an arm around her shoulders.
“Here we go” Amy said as she rolled her eyes at Lair. He’ll never change.
“What?” Grace asked Lair with a smile of her own.
“I missed you so much that I’ve craved for your signature dish. Can you please make some for me?” Lair asked making a cute face.
“Just that?” Grace asked back.
“Yes, and don’t worry Amy already volunteered to help you” He said, nudging Amy forward.
“When did i…” Amy’s couldn’t believe her brother just did that.
“Don’t worry Amy, I can handle it” Grace said smiling at her.
“No Auntie. She’ll help you. She has to learn how to cook, at least for her boyfriend’s sake” Lair said with an evil smile. This was pay back for not picking him up from the airport.
“Amy you have a boyfriend now?” Grace asked in suprise.
“Ha who’d be crazy to date her. But I meant just in case she finds someone who’s crazy enough to” Lair replied making Amy stare daggers at him. Her blood was boiling but she knew she had to be patient. Her pay back will sure be earth shaking.
“Lair stop teasing her” Grace scolded Lair before turning to Amy, “You shouldn’t mind him. Will you help me in the kitchen?” She asked with a smile.
“Sure” Amy replied as she grabbed the grocery bags and followed Grace to the kitchen, but not without saying, “You’re so dead Lair Walker”.
“You really have no shame” Jade said shaking her head at Lair who had a proud smile on his face. He knew how Amy hated cooking or worst staying in the kitchen.
“I know that already” He said with a smug smile on his face.
“Let’s sit outside” Jade suggested as she led the way to the porch.
They sat down at the porch silently for some few minutes before Lair broke the silence.
“How are you?” Lair asked her as he looked at her intensely.
“I’m fine, and how are you?” Jade asked back with a smile. She missed having Lair around.
“Come on Jade. Amy told me about it already. I’m asking how.are.you?” He asked seriously.
“I guess I’m fine” Jade said with a causal smile as she shrugged.
“I know you Jade. I know how you think, how your mind works. I know how you just take your emotions in and lock them in place, hiding it from the world with squared shoulders” He paused.
“I’m asking again, how are you?” Jade slowly turned to look at him silently before turning her gaze from him.
She slowly shook her head, “I don’t know” She replied, making Lair move closer as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.
Lair had been her friend for so long and he knew the kind of person Jade was. He was here when her father died of colon cancer and he saw how devastated she was, but she held a smile everyday just to be strong for her mother and brother, even when her heart was in shackles. He watched Jade study like life depended on it so she could gain a scholarship for college, and still worked part time just to help her mother pay the mortgage when the bank almost foreclosed on them. He knew Jade more than she knew herself.
“Would it be wrong if I say, I still feel hurt?” She asked as she turned to look at him.
“No, it only makes you human” He replied sofly, returning her gaze.
“I don’t want to be human Lair. I don’t want to feel this hurt. This past few days I had to lie to myself, even to Amy that I’m fine and that I can do it. But I can’t stop my heart from feeling the pain of his betrayal” She said as her voice lowered, while her eyes slowly turned red.
“He hurt me you know. I’ve been asking myself what I did wrong. How I went wrong? What I lacked? If I’m not good enough for him or anyone. If I was stupid or if I was too blind to see him for what he was…my heart hurts more for being a fool, for believing in what’s not” A tear glided down her cheek. This myriads of questions have been suffocating her for days.
“It’s okay Jade. Just so you know, you’re more than good enough for any man out there, and you did nothing wrong in loving someone neither do you lack a thing in your life. You’re just perfect for any man and far too perfect for Cale. He is a fool for not seeing that” He said as he wiped the tears off her face.
“Perfect huh??” Jade asked sarcastically.
“Believe me you’re. And you deserve someone better. I don’t want you to hide all your pain in your heart. You have me, Amy, Auntie and even Kelvin. So when you’re trying to be bold and tough, also try talking to us” He said making Jade nod.
“What did you do to her?” Amy called from behind them as she glared at Lair before walking over to sit by Jade.
“Nothing, we’re just talking” Lair replied.
“What did he do to you?” Amy asked pulling Jade from Lair’s arm to hug her instead.
“I’m Sorry Amy” Jade said as more tears ran down her cheeks.
“What for?” Amy asked in a quiet tone, slowly patting down her back.
“For hiding my emotions about the breakup thing from you”
“Shhh…It’s okay. Why did you think I called Lair. I know he’d make you get it all out” Amy comforted her.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t want to bother you or make you feel sad for me”
“I know honey. That’s why we have Lair to do all the worrying stuff” Amy said making Jade’s lips twitch slightly.
“So how about we go to that party Lair talked about?” Amy asked with raised brows.
“But that’s on Friday” Lair exclaimed. He had not mentioned the day earlier on.
“Friday? So why are just telling us now?” Amy asked shooting daggers at him.
“You didn’t ask me missy” Lair replied with an equal glare.
“Tomorrow is friday” Jade added.
“So guys should look pretty. I want guys to shamelessly gawk at you both. So make me proud” He said standing up.
“And where are you going?” Amy asked with an irritated tone.
“To check on my food duh!” He replied without looking back at her.
“Glutton” Amy cussed out.
“I heard that” Lair said from inside the house making Jade laugh. She missed this two crazy sibling.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 20
Episode 20
Amy
woke up bright and early despite the fact that she had slept late last night.
After returning from Jade’s place last night with Lair, she had spent hours
searching for a befitting gift to get for Blake. She had only slept for 4 hours
and if truth be told, she really felt like sleeping some more. Her 7 hours
beauty sleep was something she had been faithful to, but not today. Today was
just for Blake and having few hours of sleep isn’t a problem at all.
Amy
got up from her bed with a smile tugging on her lips as she thought about
Blake’s gift. Today will be the day Blake begins to notice her…she really
prays so. After all this months of crushing on him, she’ll finally have an
opportunity to do something nice for him and probably get his attention.
Amy
felt giddy and nervous at same time. What if he doesn’t like the gift? What if
he doesn’t still notice her after all this? That would be terrible. She was
feeling really nervous right now as she stood in front of the mirror.
She
rushed over to her bedside table to pick up her phone. She needed to call Jade
to give her some words of encouragement.
“You
better have a good reason for waking me up so early” Jade said groggily.
It was just 5:45am for crying out loud.
“Girlfriend
you’ve got to wake up now” Amy said in a nervous tone which Jade didn’t
miss as she quickly sat up on her bed.
“What’s
wrong?” Jade asked with concern. She could hear the nervousness in Amy’s
voice.
“It’s
Blake birthday today” Amy said.
“Blake??”
Jade asked as she tried to remember who Blake was again. Her eyes lit up when
she remembered who he was, “Mr dreamy?” She asked back.
“Yes”
Amy nodded as her gripped over her phone tightened. Jade calling him Mr dreamy
suddenly make her heart flutter. Blake was indeed dreamy…if not to everyone
but at least to her.
His
beautiful crystal clear eyes, his cute smile that revealed those cute dimples,
the way he curved his lips and winks when he flirts with the staffs…’Oh my
God’, Amy’s heart screamed at the thought of all that.
She
was surely going to make a fool of herself if she stood before him.
“Did
you get him a gift already?” Jade asked curiously. She wanted to know what
kind of gift Amy had gotten for him.
“Yes
I did. But what if he doesn’t like it?” Amy asked as she lolled herself on
the chair by the vanity table.
“What
do mean if he doesn’t like it? What did you buy?” Jade’s curiousity was
now piqued.
“Something
I like on him” Amy said with a shy smile. That was also one of the many
things she loved on him and she couldn’t get enough of it when he was close by.
“Tell
me”
“Jade
that’s not why I called you. Do your mind calming magic on me. Cause I’m really
nervous right now. Like palm sweating nervous” Amy said desperately.
“Okay
stay calm. Just take 3 deep breaths to calm those raging nerves of yours”
She said while Amy did exactly that. She took 3 deep breaths but she still felt
nervous…in fact, she felt more nervous.
“I
don’t think it’s working” she complained.
“That’s
because you’re not trying hard” Jade told her. “Just stay calm.
What’s the worst that could happen? Nothing!Don’t worry he’ll love your gift,
trust me. Just take your own advice and look pretty…but Amy, don’t over do
it” She warned, because trust her Amy can go overboard sometimes when it
comes to looking pretty. And it was always Amy advicing her to always look
pretty.
“You’re
sure?” Amy asked nervously.
“Of
course baby. So relax and just do what you need to do, everything will be
fine” Jade comforted her.
“Okay”
Amy said as she took another deep breath.
“Alright
baby, go get your man okay” Jade jeered.
“Okay”
Amy nodded with a smile tugging on her lips.
“Thanks
Jade. I love you”
“I
love you too baby” Jade replied before ending the call. She smiled to
herself when she imagined Amy’s nervous face. Her thought was interjected by
her phone’s beeping sound.
She
picked it up and opened the message she had just received. Her smile slowly
dissappeared when she saw it was from an unknown number….the message read..
‘Jade
please let’s meet up”.
Jade
immediately deleted the message like she hasn’t even received it in the first
place. She hated strande calls from unfamiliar numbers and mostly strange
messages. She got out of bed to get herself ready for work, since she won’t be
able to sleep anymore.
Amy
calmed herself, she knew calling Jade would be helpful. She smiled sheepishly
when she remembered Jade’s words ‘Go get your man’. Soon Blake Beau you will be
all mine. She said to herself before she started humming as she made her way to
the bathroom.
Soon
she came out of the bathroom. She started to get herself ready. She put on a
Yellow A-line gown what suited her perfectly. She had her makeup done, not too
light and not too heavy…it was just the right amount. She looked at herself
in the mirror and….
“Wow..You
look beautiful” She turned to see Lair standing by the door.
“Thank
you” She replied with a smile. That was enough to confirm she looked okay.
It was not easy to receive a decent compliment from this brother of her’s.
“You
should look this pretty later for the party okay. You never know, you might
actually meet a man who’d want your crazy ass” Lair teased her, making her
glare at him. He always knows how to ruin the mood.
“But
why are you dressed up like this?” Lair asked when he noticed she was a
little over dressed for work…like her makeup was a bit different. Amy ignored
him as she gathered her stuff for work.
“No
way! Don’t tell me, you’re trying to seduce a man” Amy eyed him as she
walked closer to the door where he stood.
“I
pray you remain single for a million years” Amy cussed at him before
pushing him out of her way. She wasn’t going to let any Lair walker get to her
this morning, especially this one.
Today
has a lot in store for her and she can’t start it by being in a bad mood.
_______
Blake
woke up with a smile plastered across his face. He was happy and his happiness
was evident on his face as he hummed and waltzed around his room.
Maybe
it was the gifts he was going to receive, or the fact that Jake was around for
his birthday this year….he didn’t know what it was, but he felt extremely
happy.
He
had spent his last 5 birthdays without his brother. It was just him and his
grandfather, and he would stay at home all day and do nothing, or probably hang
out with a few friends….but today was different.
“Happy
birthday! I see you’re in a good mood” Grandfather Beau said with a smile
as he slowly walked into Blake’s room.
“Grandfather”
Blake chirped as he walked closer before giving him a hug.
“Why
are you dressed up?” Grandfather Beau asked raising a brow, when he
noticed Blake was formally dressed before taking his seat by the edge of the
bed.
“Going
to work” He replied, putting on his watch.
“Work?”
Grandfather Beau asked with widen eyes. He was surprised to see Blake dressed
and ready for work on his birthday. And the most unbelievable thing was, Blake
wasn’t murmuring. That was unusual.
‘The
heavens must be hosting a party on his behalf’ Grandfather Beau said to
himself.
Blake
chuckled when he noticed his grandfather’s expression, “Why do you have
that look? Is it strange?” Blake asked with a smile.
“Mmm”
His grandfather nodded. Blake must really be in a good mood to be this happy
and willing to go to work on his birthday.
Blake
has never been the type to feel enthusiastic about work, most especially on his
birthdays. He loathed the idea of working on a ‘public holiday’, as he always
called it.
He’d
rather stay at home all day and sleep than go to the office.
‘Weren’t
birthdays supposed to be like a public holidays?’ He’d always say.
“Well
I’m just being generous today. We don’t want the company losing money because
I’m not around right?” He said wriggling his brows playfully.
Grandfather
Beau scoffed. Now, he thought Blake was going way over his head. When has ever
contributed to the profitting of the company? If he hadn’t been his grandson,
he would have long kicked him out of the company.
“Grandfather
how do I look?” He asked as he slowly twirled around.
“Handsome”
His grandfather replied with a thumbs up.
“I
know right. Well I have to be, after all it’s my day and my brother can’t
outshine me today” He said with a confident smile.
“Looking
good” Jake complimented him as he stood by Blake’s door post.
“Thank
you” He replied as he slowly turned around to glance at him. His smile
slowly dissappeared from his face. “Go take it off” He ordered with a
scowl, making Jake frown at him in confusion.
“Jake
you’re doing it again. You can’t wear same thing as me. Where’s your
heart?” He spat out in annoyance, as he glared at him.
Jake
caught on what Blake was saying. He couldn’t believe his brother was being
petty right now.
“It
was a coincidence” He said in his defense.
“Coincidence
or not, go and wear something else” He said with a frown.
“You
should change yours” Jake refuted.
“Jake,
it’s my birthday. Mine!!” Blake exclaimed with a sad face.
“Alright
fine” Jake yielded. It wasn’t as if they actually wore same thing, it just
had same color. What could he do, when he shamelessly doted on his brother.
“Thank
you” He replied as a smile creeped across on his face.
“Whatever”
Jake said rolling his eyes at him before turning around to leave.
“You
haven’t wished me yet” Blake reminded him.
“Happy
birthday” Jake said with a smile as he motioned him to come closer. Jake
pulled him into a hug when he walked close to him. He had totally forgotten why
he was there in the first place. He had come over to wish him a happy birthday,
before Blake started nagging him.
Blake
has been a major source of happiness in his life. He was the closest person to
his heart and he loved him unconditionally even though he doesn’t show it
always.
The
few years he spent abroad were not easy for him. Because he was worried about
him and their grandfather. He was just a few years older than Blake, but he
knew he was responsible for him, since they’ve lost both parents.
He
didn’t feel like leaving him behind most especially after losing their father.
He knew he had to stay by him and watch him grow, but he couldn’t help it but
leave at the time. He had to take care of the company since their father died,
and also he wanted Blake to be less dependent on him. He still hasn’t forgotten
how Blake had earnestly pleaded to go with him, but he had refused. He had
missed the last 5 years with him and he knew he had to makeup for that.
A
mischievious smile spread across his face when an idea popped up in his head.
“Blake it’s that a grey hair I see? Are you growing old so fast?” He
exclaimed dramatically, causing Blake to look at him in shock and surprise.
“What?
Gr..ey hair?” He asked with widened eyes before running to the mirror.
“Where?” He asked as he ruffled his hair in search of it, while Jake
chuckled in amusement before waltzing off.
“I
hate you” Blake said in anger when he realized it was a trick. He couldn’t
believe he fell for that. He frowned at the sight of his dishevelled hair.
Grandfather
Beau chuckled in amusement at Jake’s countenance. He looked like a kid who’s
candy has been snatched.
“You
should try working on your hair, if you don’t want to scare the staffs at
work” Grandfather Beau said with a smile before standing up to leave.
“Bullies”
He hissed under his breath, before picking up a comb to fix his hair. He was
just going to take his time to look better than that brother of his.
WATCHOUT FOR EPISODE 21
