Hi guys! I'm sorry for taking so long in putting up the next update. I had a little writer's block with this chapter.

     About more than a year ago…

Harieth

“Is he dead?” I asked myself as a wave of panic filled me. The young man’s body laid still and for the first few seconds, all I did was stare with no clue of what step to take next.

I looked around for any sight of another being but none was seen around our radius. With a swift of deep breath, I took steps closer and rested my knees on the cold floor, pushed my hair behind my ear and leaned closer with the intention to listen for a heartbeat.

Right about that moment, a huff of breath eluded his lips as he turned his head to me, startling me a bit. I watched as he struggled with the urge to regain his consciousness but quite couldn’t.

“Mister are you okay?” I had to ask but his lips barely moved to give me the needed reply. Regardless, a part of me was grateful that he was alive. What a scandal it could have been for me if he actually died by my fault.

I scanned him and realized he had no physical injury and the strong stench of alcohol gave me the greatest detail of what brought him this far. A sigh escaped my lips as I shook my head at his pathetic state. Once again, I stood straight on my two feet, hands akimbo. None of this was my fault, he brought this upon himself which clearly brings me to the conclusion that I’m safe. It was time to leave.

I turned away and walked back to the car. I got in, started the engine and put the car on reverse. Right at that moment when both hands held the stirring wheel, my eyes rested on the young man still lying on the cold floor.

After a while of staring at him, I let out a frustrating sigh. In the end, I’m forced to get down from the car and make my way to him hating the fact that I suddenly grew a conscience.

I pushed the door open, searched for the light switch on the wall then eventually switched it on and with his weight overlapping mine, our steps were uneven but I did my best. With his hand still around my neck and the support from me to him, we were able to make it to the bed. I let him fall on it and he was quick to make himself comfortable.

I felt a little out of breath as I stared at him in annoyance. Honestly, I have no idea why I’m going through all this trouble for a stranger who saw it best to get himself stupidly drunk. My back and shoulder ached a bit and so I stretched out a little. I leaned closer.

“I did my best. I hope we never meet again, okay?” I ended with a light slap on his arm then turned away but suddenly felt a grasp onto my arm and within a moment, I was thrust onto the bed, in-between his arms, cuddled like he was something other than a stranger to me.

Too surprised and shocked to say anything, I stared back into his drowsy eyes that now stared back at me like I meant the whole world to him. My thinking went haywire and a strange feeling took over. Before I knew it, his eyes slowly went shut as he engulfed me further in his arms, creating no space in-between us. I couldn’t seem to utter a word against his actions. It would seem I was under a spell.

“Please don’t leave.” His words came out in a hot breath that fanned my ear. The sincerity in the plea peaked my interest and it made me wonder why such a young man had almost got himself killed. What deep sorrow was he carrying and why does it seem I’m unable to reject his arms around me?

Slightly, I managed to look back up at his face. Though his eyes were shut, he seemed peaceful and he wasn’t so bad to look at.

Get up Harieth.

My subconscious reminded but for some strange reason, I couldn’t or perhaps… I didn’t want to. It felt crazily safe here in his arms like I… like I belonged here.

Eventually, I fell asleep and only by early morning when the sun barely made its way out did I wake up. On realization of what had happened, I quietly and quickly got out of the bed, careful not to wake him. I decided to leave a note so he knows nothing of his is missing and that rest assured, it was a good soul that brought him here.

On leaving, I couldn’t help stealing one last glance at him. In the end, I forced myself to look away and eventually made my way out of the room. Once outside, I reprimanded myself and told myself this was the last time I was ever seeing the stranger or doing something of this sort.

                 Present day…

“I love you Harieth.”

I froze at the mention of those words, unable to utter a single word for a while. A part of me had wished to hear him say that but now they’ve been said, I’m too surprised and shocked to make an equal reaction. Perhaps, because somehow, I’d given up on hearing those words from him or wasn’t expecting to hear them quite soon.

How long has he felt this way about me? How long has he been sure that his feelings towards me is love? Is this even real or am I having one of those beautiful and yet crazy dreams?

“Harieth…”

“Pinch me.” I was quick to add. I needed to distinguish between reality and illusion. Only then will I be sure. At first, his look was filled with confusion but then, it was quick to resolve, a simple smile appearing as he pulled a bit hard on my cheek.

“Ouch!” I exclaimed as I felt the pain and just at the verge of retaliating verbally, my eyes widened.

I’m not dreaming. This is real. Christian is here and he just… he just said he loves me.

My heart raced, pounding against my ribcage, threatening to jump out of its place. I felt a little lightheaded and my legs suddenly unable to support my entire weight so I stumbled.

“Woah.” He was quick to retain me in his arms, supporting my stand.

“Hey.” He called as he brought his hand to cup my cheek, forcing me to meet his eyes once more.

“Are you okay? I… I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you with my confession. I just… I’ve been down this road before so, I’d understand if you don’t feel the same way about me. My intention wasn’t to put you in a hot seat or force myself on you…” I leaned closer and locked my lips with his. My insides screaming with joy at what was happening.

As we slightly let go of the kiss, we stared into each other’s eyes and somehow, I prayed he understood what I’m trying to say. Right now, I’m too shaken to put the right words together like he did and make a great confession. 

Slowly, a broader smile surfaced on his face and the way in which he stared at me told me that he’d gotten the memo. He drew me closer into his arms as he leaned closer for yet another intense kiss.

Maybe it wasn’t time to cross the line… maybe it was but the moment I laid on my back on the bed and watched as he came on top of me equally undressed as I was, his eyes met mine and he looked at me like I meant the world to him, I knew I wanted to give him my all. I wanted to love him and so, as he leaned closer for yet another kiss, I let him in, having each and every part of my body.

Christian

I couldn’t stop smiling as I watched her sleep. Taking in each and every part of her face. I tucked a few strands of her hair away, behind her ear so I could keep staring. It all felt surreal but at the same time, it was quite real.

I’d claim so unsure I was about her and so took a while in admitting the truth. Who knew it only took the unsettling feeling that I’d hurt her to take a bold stand and confess. There was no feeling greater than knowing that she felt something for me as well.

As my hand held onto her face, my thumb lightly stroked her cheek. A few slight move from her and my smile broadened. In my eyes, she was just way too adorable. I didn’t want to ever look away from her.

Eventually, slowly, my eyes fluttered open and as soon as they met mine, a smile surfaced on her face.

“Good morning.” I greeted and her smile broadened.

“Morning.” She replied and we were left staring at each other while smiling like idiots.

“How long have you been awake?” 

“I couldn’t sleep very much. Too much excitement.” I confessed as I kept stroking her cheek. Her smile broadened as she shyly lowered her eyes.

She raised them back to me.

“I love you.” She confessed and although my insides screamed with joy at those words, I drew closer and placed a kiss on her forehead before engulfing her in my arms. She was mine. I’d finally gotten the woman for me.

“I love you too.” I added as I thought of our bright future ahead and many more days for me to show her just how much she means to me.

Harieth

I strolled out of Christian’s office feeling quite depressed that he’d left the building without letting me know. He left without me. Since our first time discovering our feelings for each other, there hasn’t been a day we left for work in separate cars or didn’t tell each other of our plans.

We’ve been a team. Crazy in love with each other and unable to stay apart for quite long. It’s funny how I never believed I would ever be this in love and smitten over a man. I miss him way too much when he isn’t by my side.

We’d gone on the typical dates but when it’s with him, everything just seems magical and I’m not troubled at all about whether he’s putting in more effort to please me or not. All I want is just his presence and for him to love me.

Funny, I definitely sound different from the old me. 

A sigh left my lips as I stood outside the building waiting for the driver to arrive with the car. I recalled what his secretary told me.

“How could he go on a trip without informing me.” I murmured to myself. No matter how in a hurry he was, he should have met with me before leaving.

The car drove upfront and I got in before the driver rode away. I’d fallen asleep and only when the car stopped did I eventually wake up then looked out the window. My brows slightly narrowed at the sight of no one. I turned to the driver’s seat and the driver was gone.

What the hell?

I gathered myself and got down from the car. Not a soul was to be seen as I walked into the house. The house helps were MIA.

“Hello.” I called but got no reply then I walked into the kitchen. Silence was all I got. I searched upstairs, into the rooms, the living room, the entire house and still no sign of a soul. 

What’s going on?

I stepped out into the back of the mansion at the pool site, still no reply. I ventured towards the garden. Slowly, I stopped on my tracks and stared at what behold in front of me.

A broad smile stretched on his face as our eyes met.

Too surprised and taken aback, I couldn’t display any reaction. As if understanding the dilemma, I was in, he walked up to me then stretched out a hand for me to accept.

I looked from his face to his hand and back up to his face. My heart picked up from its usual pace, though I was blown away by what he’d set out in front of me, I couldn’t help feeling a bit annoyed. 

I’d been tricked into believing our growing love might have meant little to him but in true sense, he’d gone through a lot for me. As I placed my hand in his, I felt the tears gather my eyes and I fought hard to retain them. I didn’t want him thinking I wasn’t pleased with how far he went for me.

As if reading my mind, Christian drew closer and engulfed me in his warm embrace. That alone made me let go and the tears went trickling down my cheeks.

“I’m sorry if I hurt you. I just wanted to do something nice for you.” He apologized and it broke my heart that he was.

“No, I’m sorry for tearing up like this. You’d clearly been busy trying to impress me and I’ve been thinking little of our relationship.” I quickly added before letting go of the hug and immediately wiping the tears away then mentally told myself to stop.

I smiled so he could see I was okay. He returned my smile with his. I took hold of his hand and led the way forward.

“What’s this? Dinner outdoor?” I chirped and he nodded.

“Yes and this is where it gets better… dinner prepared by me. I’ve never cooked before so…”

“I’m sure it would be great.” I interrupted, making him understand that I couldn’t care less even if it was midnight as long as it was with him.

He gave a single nod in understanding.

“We’ll have dinner, watch the stars and finally… you can have me.” He said the last part being a bit cocky. I chuckled at his words as I looked away from him to analyse his work.

He hadn’t gone over the top with the decorations and yet, not too simple. I’d never really paid much attention to the garden but looking around now, I could scent the beautiful flowers and their varieties of colours added an immense beauty to the scene.

Right under a canopy, a white table cloth had been laid and the already prepared dishes, set out and ready to be consumed. I couldn’t stop the smile from drawing across my face.

“I thought a lot on how to impress you…” Christian started and I returned my gaze onto him.

“…which was a little hard considering you’ve lived well all your life. I didn’t want to repeat something you’ve probably seen a thousand times. I didn’t want to play it too simple either so I thought, surely, you couldn’t have had dinner in a place like this in this mansion.” It would seem he was done but he just watched me, while I, on the other hand was ready to listen to the very end.

“Do you like it?” He suddenly asked and waited patiently for my reply.

“Of course. You’re right. I’ve definitely never eaten here.” I replied with an assuring smile and he leaned closer and lightly kissed me on the lips.

“Let’s eat.” He suggested once he let go of the kiss and I nodded to him in approval.

He drew out a seat for me and I made myself comfortable on it. Next, he took his seat in front of me. As he dished out onto the plates, I looked around once more and there was still no sight of anyone else.

“Where’s everyone?” 

“Oh… I gave them the day’s off. It’s just you and I here so we can be silly all we want.” His last statement left me giggling like a teenager. As I stared out into the open, I could feel the cool evening breeze on my face and the silence that followed set me at peace. My cheeks were starting to hurt a bit from smiling so much but I couldn’t stop.

I’m in love.

Christian

“I’m glad you could make it. Please enjoy the party.” I appreciated alongside Lucas with a handshake before the guests went on to mingle with the rests and another came forth.

Once, I glanced away in search of my wife and I found her conversing with a few guests. She was looking as beautiful as ever and I’d made sure to let her know as soon as I laid eyes on her all dolled up. She had smiled and said thank you.

She looked my side and our eyes met. We smiled at each other, deep down wishing we could immediately run into each other’s arms and stay like that forever. Sometimes, it just feels crazy how I feel this way. I don’t think I’d ever felt completely burnt with passionate love for a woman. Every second of the day, Harieth was all I could think of.

Her every smile set my heart fluttering and sometimes, it just feels like I’m floating in the air.

“Can I have your attentions ladies and gentlemen?” One of the staff who just went on stage spoke into the microphone and everyone looked up to her.

“First, I’ll like to welcome you all to the Hendrix Enterprises 30th anniversary…” She started and I looked away, the rest of her words no longer in the range of my concentration.

Quietly, I made my way out of that spot and then to my wife’s side. I held her hand in mine and that’s when she glanced my side. I flashed her a smile and she did the same before returning her eyes back onto the lady on stage.

Not up till a minute later, I felt quite restless and had the urge to leave. Unable to suppress my feelings anymore, I turned away and pulled her along with me all the way outside the hall.

“Why are we leaving?” She questioned as soon as we were out.

“Because we’re way too in love with each other.” I gave a cheesy reply as I glanced her side once.

“Pfft.” She added in a tinge of disbelief but never took the liberty of retracting her hand or stopping me. Clearly, she wanted the same as I.

“Your keys sir.” The male valet stretched out once the car was brought to our front.

“I’ll take that.” She interrupted as she took hold of the key before I could.

“I’m driving.” She declared as she made her way to the driver’s seat and all I could do was watch her.

“Are you sure you want to drive?” I asked as soon as I got into the car. She gave me a weird look.

“Are you underestimating my driving skills?” 

I shook my head.

“Nope. I just thought…”

“Shut-up and tell me where we’re going.” She demanded as her eyes rested on me, waiting for some reply. I looked away from her and shrugged.

“I don’t know. I just wanted to go somewhere with you.” I shifted my eyes back to her and her facial expression had softened as she looked away.

“You know what?” Her eyes were quick to be back on me.

“I know somewhere.” She stated in excitement as she started the engine.

“Oh… alright.” I added as I put on my seatbelt and she did the same. Soon we were on the road. I watched her and realized it my first seeing her driving and she wasn’t bad at it. A simple smile played on my lips.

These past few days had been the happiest I’ve ever been. All I could do was hope it lasts forever.

I looked outside and realized it had been drizzling. Each drop increasing in weight and speed. A brief smile surfaced.

“It’s raining.” I declared as I turned back to Harieth. 

Her hands held onto the wheel, her eyes stared straight ahead and head hung without moving. It would seem she had frozen.

“Harieth.” I called as I placed a hand on her arm but I got no reaction from her. This state seemed a little familiar and I recalled the night I found her outside in the rain unable to move. Something was definitely wrong.

I looked ahead for a moment and was quick to return to her.

“Harieth snap out of it!” I exclaimed as I shook her a bit but to no avail. One look ahead and I could see the traffic light had turned red but Harieth was still driving at a speed.

In a sparse of a second, I thought of what I could do and so I unbuckled my seatbelt with the thought of taking over the driving. As I struggled with even making my idea possible, there was a loud honking and I looked its direction. We’d passed the traffic light and within a moment, I watched my life pass before my eyes and with a loud bang, my car was set off grid, forcing forthcoming cars to bump into ours and incur almost an equal accident.

With an unclear vision and new found difficulty in breathing, I glanced my wife’s side one last time. Her eyes were shut and blood tricking down her face from a cut. With every fiber in my body, I tried to move my hand, just so I might be able to hold her hand but I’d fallen too weak to do that.

Regrettably, in the end, my eyes shut and consciousness slipped out of me.