Chapter 28

Pushing away from the desk I swerved my head around the round table, like clones the six lawyers nodded in unison signaling that this contract deal was official. Glancing down at Carrie I watched her scribble her name in a loopy cursive that only a writer could master. Dropping the smooth pen, she flashed me a grin and jumped to her feet.

"Congratulations Carrie and welcome to Weller's Publishing." I beamed and stretched my hand out for her to shake

Squealing excitedly, she pushed my hand aside and launched her small figure at me. Mildly surprised, I wrapped my arms around her petite figure as she bounced in my arms like a pin ball.

To my shock Carrie arrived at my office at eight thirty sharp with a list of demands, the company lawyers weren't too pleased with her preparation. The old croons actually glared at the blonde when she slid the paper across the desk, with a determined glint in her eye and I couldn't have been prouder. Strong through the ninety-five minute meeting, Carrie showed true grit -and stubbornness the lawyers didn't appreciate- and proved that she truly was Wes's sister. Her demand when she first stepped into the room was that I am to be the only editor to work with her, no replacements or inference from any other editor for the two year contract she just signed. I stood by dumbfounded when Carrie refused to back down from that first demand, reluctantly the lawyers agreed and began typing the conditions and terms down with a firm scowl.

"Thank you so much for this opportunity." she gushed, pulling an arms length away I knew she wasn't just spewing out crap just because I technically am her boss now. Her navy blue eyes shimmered with appreciation that could neither be faked or concealed. "I don't know how to repay you."

Waving her off, I spotted the dusty, crony lawyers exiting now that the job was down and the contract was sealed tighter than a nun's legs. "Don't thank me, it's your talent that got you this deal and I expect more amazing work from you."

She nodded, her golden hair bouncing "Of course, I've already began rewriting the story you read."

"Send me the finished chapters to edit when you can and if you have any ideas for a cover send them my way, if all goes to plan you should have your first novel published by July."

Her eyes widened "Seriously?!"

I nodded, watching her eyes shrinking back to their normal size "Summer is the best time to launch a steamy novel like yours."

She ran a shaky hand through her hair as the corners of her mouth stretched into a full, megawatt smile "I never imagined it would go so fast." she mumbled with a shake of her head

"Relax Carrie." Placing a comforting hand on her shoulder I flashed her a reassuring smile "I'll help you through these next few months, you've still got my number right?"

She nodded, her hair bouncing off her shoulders reminding me of a child's.

"Whatever you need, whenever you need it just call me, okay?"

Again she nodded "Thank you."

Collecting the copy of the contract I had to send to Henry, another talented writer signed up would definitely please the elder man -especially when he hears about Carrie's stubbornness. Following my lead, she collected her own papers and started out of the conference room.

"So you're going to work now?" I asked, hoping not to come off too clingy as I not so unnoticeably asked about Wes.

Stuffing the papers into the boho styled bag she nodded, her gaze set downwards much to my relief "Yeah, Dominic is holding down the fort while I'm here."

"Where's Wes?"

"He's doing damage control-"

Her body tensed as she placed a hand over her mouth as if the words that had escaped would come rushing back in. What did she mean damage control?

"Is everything alright?" I asked warily

Wes has been a little down but I thought it was his lack of sexual activity for the last three days, since the night at my parent's house I've spotted -by spotted, I mean watched him from the peep hole at my door- him coming home at nearly ten p.m. with a tired look on his face. In the mornings I wouldn't see him by his door greeting me like usual and when I did see him he flashed me a beat up smile that was so fake it could be made of plastic and I never would have thought I'd see on Wes. He seemed like life had taken a bat to his carefree ways, his eyes no longer sparkled with life, his smile drooped with artificialness, even his provocative comments hadn't surfaced in days. It's as if the spark that is Wes was sucked dry out of his bones and it had me concerned.

"Yes, it's just a family problem."

Halting at the door I reached a hand out to stop Carrie from walking away "Wes doesn't seem like himself lately and I'm worried about him, if there is something wrong please don't keep it from me." I admitted, no longer caring how I came off

She bit her lip, mulling over my words before she sighed "It's not about Wes but this problem has taken a lot out of him and if he hasn't told you I don't think I should tell you."

"Carrie-"

"My brother is the kind of person who refuses to show any sign of weakness in front of us but we can see he's suffering from this situation. He needs a break from life so I've decided I'm taking him out tonight, it'll do him a lot of good."

Despite the curiosity nipping below the surface I nodded, if Wes was 'suffering' as she put it than the best person to help is his family. Yet I couldn't help the nagging voice in my head that kept shouting for me to find him. Lowering my head to hid the disappoint I felt, I started forward wondering what could be so bad that Wes would turn into a zombie.

"He loves the fair and tonights the last night, I thought that would lift his spirits. I think having you there tonight too would help take his mind off of life for a few hours." she continued

I was surprised my neck didn't snap in two when I whipped my head up in surprise "I wouldn't want to impose." I said, silently hoping she didn't use the 'sibling bonding' thing as an excuse to let me down easy.

Honestly I've missed Wes and many times I found myself tempted to run across the hall and ask why he hasn't come around lately, but my pride kept me behind my front door. No matter how many times I tried distracting myself with work the irritating man seemed to slip into my thoughts and bring with him the lonely ache in my chest. He had somehow wormed his way into my life and like a pest infestation I couldn't rid him from my thoughts.

"I think he needs you tonight more than I." she stated with a grim smile

Needs me? How could he need me? I mean we've barely spoke without name calling or ending in a steamy lip lock that left my brain swimming and my body buzzing. Hell I barely knew anything about him but I guess as his four month 'girlfriend' I would be able to help him. Perhaps I should cancel, would Wes even want me there?

His family isn't apart of our deal but I hadn't intended to meet them and now I'm working with his younger sister. This deal seems to have gotten out of hand, what was suppose to me a detached, phony relationship turned in to a jumbled, tangled mess. How long could we go like this before we had to end this charade or worse, we were discovered?

"See you tonight at eight thirty?"

"Um..." I wanted to explain that I shouldn't join them, make some sort of excuse up but before I could think the words had blurted from my lips "Yeah, I'll see you tonight."

With a pleased smile she waved and disappeared around the round cornered desk, leaving me sagging against the side wall seriously considering investing in a muzzle.

Slinging my mini tote over my shoulder, I collected my hair into a low ponytail as I stepped out into the hall. Carrie called a few minutes ago to explain she would be heading our way except there was one problem, Wes hasn't showed up. For each event he has attended with me he has been precisely on time and sometimes early, shutting my door behind me I just extended my arm when Wes emerged from his apartment.

Shamelessly my eyes raked over him in sheer awe and appreciation for the invention of black denim. The black fabric clung to his toned thighs and hung low on his hips without sagging too low, the electric blue tee he wore flexed over his taunt muscles like a second skin, the black leather jacket he threw on added to the bad boy aura that oozed from him, and his jet black hair was tousled only enhanced the edgy, dangerous vibe he was giving tonight. Dangerous looked good on him, taking a double look I couldn't help but bit my lip as I gulped his appearance in greedily; he looked good enough to eat.

"Hey." I managed to croak after openly ogling him and it seems I wasn't the only one checking the other out. Wes's solid grey eyes ran over the light blue skinny jeans clinging to my slender legs, the pale pink striped blouse I wore outlined the swell of my breasts, paired with floral wedges that pinched my toes slightly.

"Hey." he said sounding uncertain about the greeting "Going somewhere?"

My brows bent downwards "Yes, I thought we were going out tonight?"

"I wasn't aware we had plans." he said, his brows lowering as a small crease formed between the dark brows

"Carrie said...shit." I cursed realizing Wes had no idea I was tagging along with them.

"This is embarrassing." I laughed awkwardly and ran a hand throw the bottom of my ponytail. Turning on my heels I turned towards my door when the blonde sneak called out my name.

Looping her arm with mine she tugged me away from my door "Come on guys the cab is waiting."

"You didn't mention she was coming." Wes whispered to his sister unaware that I could hear him

His comment felt like a back hand across the face, the sting of rejection following the blow. Was I that bad of a companion? Craning my head away from view I bit the inside of my cheek to keep from telling him I don't want to go anywhere with him either but refrained from it for the sake of this deal. I'm not under any delusions that we are the best of friends but he could at least pretend that he wouldn't mind my company. Ignoring his comment Carrie grabbed his wrist and started to drag him along with me.

The cab ride was awkward as Carrie attempted to include both Wes and I to contribute to the conversation. Wes merely grunted or ignored her attempts whilst I kept my gaze on the window replying with two words or less. Apparently he could pay for our tickets but not spare a side glance my way, I thought when we started through the crowds of families. The closed street was decorated with soft pink, electric blue and vibrant green bulb sized lights that were tucked around each booth and game, like a path leading to the next fun activity.

With an excited clap Carrie ran towards the merry go around like a six year old, she bounced up and down happily while going on and on about the next ride we should go on. Refusing to get on the plastic horses, I watched as Wes -tall, broad, shouldered and badass- sat on a lavender colored horse, seeing him amongst the other children and young women he seemed like a giant.

Stepping off the ride I spotted a hint of a smile and found my previous annoyance with him evaporating. Carrie dragged us around the spacious area from one childish ride to the next, most of which I felt ridiculous as I towered over the children but enduring the strange stares from others was almost worth seeing the first signs of happiness on Wes's face, almost.

An hour later, feet aching and stomach rumbling for food that was neither fried or all sugar, I walked -well limped- beside Wes and Carrie who were happily munching on a super sized chili dog.

"Let's go on the Hurler." Carrie gasped

Turning toward the sky high circular ride that current spun it's latest customs, the screams and cheers echoing from the ride. I gulped nervously as my stomach hurled in it's own circles "I think I'll sit this one out."

A look of disappointment crossed her features and she turned towards Wes who shook his head "Sorry sorellina, I just ate."

Huffing in frustration Carrie glanced over her shoulder at the line "Fine, you two chickens stay here, I'm going to puke my guts out." she said angrily and walked away

Her petite figure disappeared amongst the groups of families and friends leaving Wes and I alone for the first time tonight. Glancing down at the caramel swirl ice cream in my hand I was reminded of the last time I had ice cream with Wes around, my cheeks burned with the memory and my lower abdominal stirred recalling how good it felt to have his fingers so close to my womanhood. My legs quaked beneath me and I nearly dropped to my knees as the image of Wes took me to that level of pleasure around so many people.

"Are you okay?" Wes asked when I reached a hand out to grip the bench closest to me

"Hmm...just dizzy." I lied and lowered myself onto the green colored bench

Drawing a long, much needed breath into my lungs I spotted Wes taking the seat beside me from the corner of my eye. Swirls of desire and anger fought in my chest, neither emotion able to up hand the other. The need to run my hand through his charcoal colored hair was strong but the urge to shove the sweet treat in his face was not too far below either. It was a blur of mixed feelings.

He cleared his throat and to my surprise spoke directly to me for the first time since we left the apartment "You look nice."

I couldn't help the laugh that bubbled from my lips, I didn't expect it and couldn't stop it. We've barely spoke to each other all night and that's the first thing he says, you look nice?! For fùck's sake could he really find nothing else to say?

Shaking my head, the urge to fling my ice cream at him surfaced "Real smooth."

"What?" he asked with annoyance

Twisting on the bench to face his quizzical expression added to my growing annoyance with him, he actually doesn't know what he did. The nerve of this imbecile!

"You've ignored me the whole night and that's the first thing you say. Something definitely is wrong with you tonight."

He brows shot upwards "You haven't exactly been trying to speak to me either and there is nothing wrong with me." he argued

"It's not a secret you didn't expect me to join you guys tonight but I think your comment in the hall was a bit drastic, especially since I didn't even want to come in the first place." I lied, too deep in my irritation towards him to care that I secretly wanted to join.

It irks me to no end that while I dressed I was anxious to see him tonight, speak with him, laugh, hell a few stolen kisses for show wouldn't kill me. Then to actually be out with him and he's sulking around me as if I was the cause for his foul mood.

"Carrie invited me." I repeated more clearly "I'll be sure next time to decline any offers, will that please you. No more interference from me when it comes to your life." I added the last part under my breath unable to deny how it hurt that Wes was treating me this way.

"You're twisting my words around, I didn't mean to be harsh it's just-"

He trailed off leaving a blank I was already curious about before he brought it up. Sadness coiled in my chest as the seconds ticked by and he remained silent, glancing down at his shoes as if the answers were beneath the soles. Not for the first time I regretted accompanying them after discovering Wes hadn't expected me, it's embarrassing enough that Carrie didn't tell him but the silent treatment only added to my shame. No doubt Carrie sensed the awkwardness between us, it was unmissable.

"Thanks for the clarification, next time you're down I'll leave you to sulk in your own place and away from me." I retorted harshly

"It's complicate- I haven't been sulking." he defended quickly

Rolling my eyes I licked the frozen treat, no longer craving the cold, sweetness and it had everything to do with the man staring at me right now. "Yes, you have been sulking these past few days. I barely see you and when I do you give me some bullshit smile before running off."

"So I'm busy, I don't have to spend every second of my day chasing you." he growled

Shocked by his accusation I whipped my head in his direction as the first sparks of anger was ignited in my belly.

"If that's true then why is your sister concerned about you too and earlier she said you weren't at work so your so called busyness." I lifted my hands to make air quotes "Isn't completely true if you weren't at work so what exactly were you busy with." I asked with a glare

The sudden burning rage in his stormy eyes startled me and furthermore when he leaned forward closing the small gap on the bench "It's none of your business what I do and you have no right prying into my family life." he hissed darkly

Tilting my chin up in defiance, I narrowed my eyes silently meeting his own silent challenge "It's okay for you to know about my family life but when it comes to yours it's not okay?" I asked

"Yes." he barked, causing a few people walking ahead of us to glance curiously our way "This deal of yours forces me to be involved with your crazy ass family but it does not include mine, so back the fùck off." he growled

The sound rumbled from his chest like an animal's growl, the sound so guttural and venomous I couldn't help but flinch in response. To say I was hurt by his comment would be an understatement, never would I ever have thought Wes of all people would be speaking to me this way. With pure anger and loathing.

Swallowing past the lump lodged in my throat I adjusted the strap of my bag, readying for an exit should I need one "That may be true but you have no right to raise your voice at me as if I'm some child." I spat back my eyes locking with his

A muscle in his jaw twitched signaling his growing annoyance with me, the fire in his eyes burned fiercely yet I stood my ground refusing to back down.

"My family is my business, that I deal with on my own time. If you call me for another bullshit party, where people are spewing bullshit from every pore in there body then I'll be there with a faker smile than yours. This deal doesn't make me your slave and it doesn't entitle you to slither into my life."

"Slither?!" I repeated his exact word, unconsciously jumping to my feet "If it weren't for this deal I would never even consider sparing a second glance at someone like you, you disgusting, arrogant díck!"

A few audible gasps sounded behind me followed by unpleased grumbling from parents and the snickers of others witnessing our disagreement. The many curious eyes watching us was ignored when Wes stood up his face scrunched in anger, his lips were pressed into a thin line and his hands clenched at his sides. Through my anger, desire leaked through at the sight of his hardened features, the emotion going hand and hand with his edgy features better than his usual happiness.

"Of course you would much rather prefer a snobby, fùcker who cheats on you with your sister, uses you than dumps you after he's gotten what he wants."

My heart paused, for a small fraction of a second my heart actually stopped beating as his words set in bringing a sting of hurt that was forgotten as I wondered where he could have...

"My father told you this."

It was more of a statement than a question but Wes nodded, the anger still not fizzling away even as he spoke of my past failed relationship with Greg. Only than did it dawn on me that whatever my father said caused Wes to sputter that crap about me being beautiful.

'You're a special, one of a kind woman, you know that....'

The then sweet compliment swiveled in my head, taunting me for not realizing sooner that my father brought something up. I felt like slapping my forehead for being so foolish, for not connecting the dots and for believing Wes's words.

"He told you about Greg." I said in a strained voice

He nodded "Not in full detail but I got the picture, your type in men is just plain old shitty."

The sting of my fingers digging into my palm distracted me from the boiling rage within me but Wes didn't seem to notice as he continued on, driven by his own anger.

"You just let those men take what they wanted and toss you away like yesterday's trash so don't you stand there with your nose pointed up at me while you speak about 'someone like me'." he spat, every word dripping with malice aimed at me

"You don't know what your talking about!" I hissed back

"Really?" he questioned mockingly, stepping forward so we were chest to chest he ran his slit like eyes over my body. The emotion in his eyes of mock amusement rather than desire. "It sounds like you allowed them to use you, to take what they pleased and throw the unwanted scrapes aside. Tell me am I close, or perhaps there's more?"

Unwanted scrapes. Is that what Wes thought I was? The leftovers of other men who did in fact take what they wanted but I didn't known at the time. Yes I had my suspicions but I wouldn't place myself in a position where I'd get hurt, I couldn't -wouldn't purposely set myself up. I tried with Greg, tired working out our issues but it just wasn't enough, I wasn't enough and Tyler. Tears stung the backs of my eyes recalling the naïve girl from back then who didn't expect her first love to betray her so deeply. I didn't know my relationships were based on what the men in my life could gain. I couldn't have known.

A small seed of doubt settled in my mind as I tried recalling any moment where I might have suspected anything strange, second guessing myself and unsure if I actually put myself in a position to be hurt.

"Your father mentioned what Greg wanted from you but he didn't go into details about the other one."

Snapping from my thoughts I felt my throat close with panic as my blood pounded in my ears drowning out the noises of the fair. My father is a cruel, selfish man but would he stoop so low and mention my first relationship. The one that tainted my image of love further and steeled my heart from any more attacks. He wouldn't be so cruel, would he?

"Tell me what did Tyler take from you?" Wes asked, his lips curled in unmasked disgust

My heart clenched at the mention of his name passing his lips and ached from Wes's expression and newfound knowledge of my past. Tyler was a mistake, one I have tried burying deep within the ruined parts of my heart I swore I'd never try repairing. Rebuilding would mean setting a playground for the next man to crush and I refused to feel the same heart break again.

"Shut up." I whispered, the shock of Wes having any knowledge about Tyler stilling my body

"Oh what you don't want to share secrets about our lives anymore? Why? Because I mentioned some rich motherfùcker who probably ditched you for some, classy beauty pageant queen." Wes laughed mockingly

His laugh rang in my ears, the cruel sound added to the raging anger burning inside of me with each painful clench of my chest. His words rang true but I wasn't going to assist him in belittling me by mentioning just how close he was to the truth. In that moment I loathed Wes, loathed him with every fiber of my being for purposely taunting me about a past he is still clueless to. For discovering just how pathetic and foolish I actually am. I loath him for listening to my father, for throwing his words in my face and most of all for causing the a set of thick tears to trail down my cheeks. Clear evidence that he had struck a cord.

With anger and hurt fueling me, I shoved my uneaten ice cream in his face catching him square in the nose as stray drop dribbling down his face and onto his shirt. Retreating my arm I felt slightly satisfied as the crushed cone dropped allowing me a glance at my work but it wasn't enough.

Rearing my arm back I put all my force behind the slap that vibrated in my ears and stung my hand. Wes's hand turned slightly to the side from the unexpected blow, the ice cream in his eyes restricting his vision.

"Fùck you!" I shouted, hot tears ran over my cheeks and over my mouth allowing me to taste the saltiness of my pain. A harsh reminder that men -no matter how good they may appear- are all heartless, assholes and Wes wasn't an exception.

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-hides behind a chair- I bet you're all buzzing with comments with predictions and colorful curses for me;) and Wes's insensitivity in this chapter.

And Tyler, the reason behind Khloe's steel guarded heart what's your opinion on him?