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Melody

“Dad, you can’t.”

“I will and I expect to not hear another word about the matter.”

Her silence was supposed to be deafening but he didn’t notice.

“Melody. Your mother and I have discussed this. Be ready to leave in 10 minutes.”

Mel stormed out of the room. For yet another summer, her parents were exiling her to their best friend’s house in the country, with the one person she hated most…Marco. Were her summers never to be her own?

True, Marco and her had been friends when they were younger but four years ago he had suddenly changed, making her life miserable every chance he could.

Sitting in her room, her mother had sent a maid to pack her things. Mel knew it was pointless to object to what was packed. Her mother tended to be very specific in what was to be packed and it had proven to be useless to try and pack anything else. So, in went all the cute flirty sundresses her mother had recently bought her.

“Melody.” Her mother’s voice came from outside her door.

“Yes, Mother.”

“It’s time to go. Gather your things.”

Mel walked to the car without looking at either of her parents.

“See you in a few months, my dear.” Her mother called from the door, not bothering to hug her.

After driving for several hours, she pulled up to the MacCallister estate and Mel groaned. She hesitated, refixing her hair though. It’s not like anyone would be expecting it to be any specific way. The MacCallister’s didn’t know her father’s strict rules. The car pulled to a stop and Mel ran her fingers through her hair. It was staying down.

“Miss Melody.  Mrs. Carmichael informed me that you were expected. You can go right on in. I will bring your things up.”

“Thank you Simon.” Mel got out of the car and headed up the stairs. She knocked once then entered. She had been there too many times, lived there for too many summers to stand on ceremony.

If only they didn’t have a son, then her summers would be so much more uncomplicated and enjoyable. She headed straight to her usual room. On the way she came across Mrs MacCallister.

“Mel! You made it! I didn’t even hear the door.” Mrs. MacCallister pulled her in for a breath-snatching hug. “My dear, I have missed having you around. Each year that you go home for the winter I find myself only missing you more.

“It’s good to be here. Am I in my same room?” Mel couldn’t keep the smile from her face.

“Yes. And Marco is around here somewhere. Be sure to find him and say hello. He has been looking forward to your arrival almost as much as I have.”

Making her way back out into the familiar hall Mel made her way to her room, ready to flop onto her bed and not move. But instead she found Marco laying on top of her bed waiting for her.

As soon as he saw her, his smile widened. It was lethal and he knew it. “Well, if it isn’t Melody Carmichael.”

“Get out of my room, Marco.”

He didn’t move off the bed, settling deeper into the pillows spread out underneath him. “Aww and what would my mother say? She is expecting me to be ecstatic over your arrival and spending hours in your room catching up and being all gossipy.”

“Somehow I seriously doubt that. Your mother is well aware we don’t get along.”

“And each year she somehow thinks we are going to change and become besties.”

Mel glared his way. “It isn’t that far-fetched, genius. We used to be rather good friends as I recall. That is, until you randomly decided to hate me for no reason.”

“Well, I’ve changed my mind.” He patted the open space on the bed next to him.

“About what? About hating me or about spending hours in here pretending to be catching up?” Mel folded her arms and moved no closer to the bed than she was before.

He propped himself up on his shoulders. “I declare a truce.”

“Why?” Her eyes narrowed and his smile deepened.

“Would you believe that I find you pretty and I want to kiss you?”

“No. Try again.”

He sat up further. “How about I’m tired of making you miserable and have decided to give you a break this summer out of the generosity of my heart?”

She laughed. “You’re funny.”

“Fine. My mother has started introducing me to possible alternatives.” He fell back onto the bed. It was his tone that caught her curiosity.

“Alternatives to what?” She moved closer.

“You.” His eyes stayed closed.

She stopped moving abruptly. “What do you mean? Your parents have started looking for new summer house guests?”

“House guests? He peeked an eye open to look at her, his face drowning in incredulousness. “No. You don’t know why you’re here?”

“So my parents can be rid of me for the summer. I’ve known that since I was 4 and they dropped me off on your doorstep without even saying goodbye.” She edged onto the bed, still keeping her distance. His good looks had always been a problem for her to get past. Her breathing always shortened and her thoughts scattered, even when he was being mean.

“It may have started out that way.” He admitted. “However, I was eavesdropping on our parents a few years ago and discovered the real reason.”

His pause made her whack his arm good and hard. “And?”

“They expect us to fall in love and get married.”

Her eyes narrowed. “How many years ago?”

He looked at her then but didn’t answer.

“Don’t make me ask again.” She growled.

Oddly enough he smiled in response to her irritation. In seconds, she went from sitting on the opposite side of the bed to being caught lying fully underneath him, his weight pressing her down into the bed.

“Get off me!”

He looked her straight in the eye. “It was four years ago.”

His quiet confession halted her attempts to maim him for life. “It wasn’t something I did?”

“I don’t hate you El. I hated feeling pushed into liking you.”

“You don’t have to like me like that, Marco. I just miss my friend.” Mel focused on the far corner of the room as tears threatened.

“I know now that I don’t have to, but I do.”

“Do what?”

“Like you.” He flashed her a half smile and rolled off her. He shrugged a little as he strode quickly to the door. “Don’t hate me.”

It wasn’t until after he had left that it occurred to her that she should have said something back. 

Click here for more of Melody’s story!

Davinia

“Master Lowell. Your father requires your presence in his study.”

Lowell turned to study the old butler standing at the parlor’s door. He sighed softly, hoping this wasn’t the start of more trouble.

“Kindly remind Father that I have a guest and it would be poor manners if I left her here alone.”

Joeffry, the butler, bowed low. “As you wish, Master Lowell. Shall I also inform Lady Celia to come join you?”

“No. Mother has plenty weighing on her mind and does not need to be disturbed.”

Joeffry stood there, the equivalent to gaping at the lack of propriety Lowell was suggesting. However, instead of saying so, he bowed once more and left the room.

“My father will be down here in a matter of moments. I’m afraid your private audience is no longer an option, Miss Rowe.”

Miss Davinia Rowe stood from the small pale green settee where she had been situated. “I beg your pardon. Forgive me for trifling with your time. I should not wish to delay you from your responsibilities any longer.” With a stiff curtsey she tried to make her way to the door.

Lowell moved into her way before she could go more than a few steps.

“Please don’t go.”

She looked him straight in the eye. “I will not be ridiculed by your father again. The Duke has made it clear that I should not be permitted to socialize with a family of your high standing. I should not have trespassed upon your time as I have. It was wrong of me.”

“Miss Rowe.” He stopped short at her glare. “Davinia, please.”

“Goodbye, Lowell.” She paused. “Forgive me, Lord Waverly.” Again, she curtsied. “Kindly move aside, my Lord.”

“No, Davinia. I will not allow us to end like this.”

Shaking her head, Davinia refused to look at him. “Neither of us have a choice or say in the matter. My father has chosen someone else for me and your parents have never approved of me.”

“Davinia, I would marry you.” He declared as he reached for her hand.

“Would?” She shook her head slowly. “And what is keeping you from asking then? You have known my heart in this and yet here we still are; apart. Let me go, Lord Waverly.”

“No.” His voice hardened. “You will not shuck me off as easily as your father seems to think is possible.”

Eyes flashing, Davinia’s glare rose to meet his. “It is you who is keeping us apart, Lowell. My father has simply given up hope that you will ever offer for me and means to find me a husband so that I will be looked after. And after this conversation, I begin to see that he speaks the truth. You will not fight for me, for us.”

“How can you say such things? You are everything to me.”

“No.” She shook her head sadly. “I am not. You know that we will not see each other again after this and still you do not ask. You do not fight for me. Any second your father will come through that door and force me to leave.

Lowell pulled her close, his thumb tenderly caressing her cheek. “Miss Davinia Rowe, will you marry me?”

She gasped. “You cannot mean it.”

Lowell chuckled as his forehead touched hers. “Is my proposal that much of a surprise?”

The door swung open with a bang and Lowell’s father burst in, red in the face.

“What is this?” He bellowed.

Lowell cut him off before he could rage any further. “Father, you shall be the first to know. Miss Rowe has accepted my proposal of marriage.”

“Not if I have any say in the matter.” The man lowered his voice to a menacing growl as his glare landed squarely on Davinia. “You will not sink your claws into this family’s wealth.”

Again, Lowell stepped in between his father and his new fiance. “Father, calm yourself and see reason. You and mother no longer have to worry about finding me a suitable bride. I already have. And she has accepted. Do not impugn my honor by suggesting I retract my proposal.”

“Proposal?” Lady Cecily Shaw walked in beaming with her two friends, Lady Smithing and Lady Tonnly, in tow. “Has my son finally asked his sweetheart to marry him?” Lady Shaw did not wait for an answer, turning to her friends excitedly. “I have been hoping for years that he would finally come into some sense and ask her to marry him. Oh I do hope she said yes.” With a startled look she sought Davinia’s gaze. “By the looks of her flush I’d say she has!”

With a clap and a giggle, Lady Shaw enveloped Davinia in a hug.

“Lady Shaw.” Lord Shaw managed to keep his tone even. “There is not to be a wedding.”

All the ladies in the room turned to gape at him in shock.

“No wedding? My dear, whatever could you mean? Of course there will be a wedding. That is always what happens after a proposal.” Lady Shaw turned to Davinia. “Was it romantic, Miss Rowe?”

Davinia did not have a chance to respond.

Lord Shaw stomped his foot. “There will be no wedding and there was no proposal. Lowell will be proposing to Miss Amelie Wicksham in less than a fortnight.”

A hush settled over the inhabitants of the room and Davinia practically fell back onto the settee she had previously vacated.

Lord Lowell Waverly, heir to the Shaw Dukedom, rose to his full height. “Father, I am going to speak very clearly so you do not misunderstand. I will be marrying Miss Davinia Rowe. I regret that you have made other arrangements with another family without informing me. However, Miss Wicksham will need to look elsewhere for a big purse and pretty jewels. I am taken. If you choose to disinherit me because of this decision, I will accept it and find somewhere else to live.”

Lady Shaw collapsed into a heap of stifled sobs.

Lord Shaw’s shoulders dropped as he glanced toward his wife, taking in her friends at the same time.

Lord Waverly did not waver in the slightest, standing straight and proud, ready to take on whatever came at him next.

And Miss Davinia Rowe’s heart swelled, for she was engaged to the man she loved most in the world.

Come back next Monday for another romantic vignette!

Melissa ~Part 3~

If you want to go back and read part 1 of Melissa’s story, click here.

To read part 2 of Melissa’s story, click here.

Arriving in front of her dorm with an amazingly attentive and kind man, instead of alone, was a first for Melissa. Gavin somehow managed to keep her talking their entire walk home. She blinked in surprise as she stared up at the large building. They hadn’t been walking long enough to already be there. She wasn’t ready to be done talking with him, even if he was doing most of the talking. That actually worked better for her.

“Did we get the wrong place?” Gavin broke into her dumbfounded staring. “You suddenly look a little lost.”

“Oh…I…no. I live here.” Melissa blushed. In a few seconds, she managed to refocus on his face, though the blush didn’t fade as clarity returned. “Yes, this is my house…room…dorm. Ugh!”

Gavin stood there smiling, watching. “So now that we have arrived at your living space…” He winked. “I find myself nervous to ask you my question because I really want your answer to be yes.”

“You will never know the answer if you don’t ask.” Melissa glanced around as her flash of outgoingness faded. “Of course, you can always ask later.”

“I can’t tell if you’re trying to encourage or discourage me.” He laughed. “Melissa with the unknown last name, will you go out to dinner with me this friday night?”

“It’s Janson.”

“Is that a no?” He sighed. “I thought you told me there wasn’t a guy I had to worry about. Why string me along if you were just going to say no?”

Melissa staggered back. Tears stung her eyes as she blinked. He was no longer smiling. In fact, his disappointment quickly changed to a scowl. 

She stumbled over words and her feet. “I…what?”

And just like that he was walking away. Melissa stood there staring after him, unsure whether she even wanted to stop him.

“Janson is my last name.” She finally called out. Not waiting for whatever response he may or may not give, she ran inside. The tears were coming and she couldn’t stop them. 

Just inside the door Melanie stood there shaking her head. “What happened? Gavin went from smiles to scowls in less than a second.”

“I told him my last name.” Melissa slowed only long enough to get past her before she sped for her room.

Slamming the door shut behind her, Melissa immediately walked over to the window and stared out. Though she couldn’t figure out what had happened, a small part of her wanted to see him one last time. He had been so nice and patient at the party. He had been the first guy other than Devin to talk to her since she arrived on campus. Maybe she had been naive to think that he’d also be her first date.

Looking out she noticed that Gavin was still down there, arms crossed and glaring, while Melanie spoke to him. She poked him in the chest and stormed away shaking her head. Whatever Melanie had said must have sunk in because he slumped and looked up at the building. He didn’t look mad anymore.

“Melissa?” Melanie’s voice came through her door a short time later. “I know I may be overstepping. I asked Gavin what happened and I told him how much of an idiot he is.” There was a long pause before she spoke again. “He’s out there hoping to apologize if you are interested in hearing him out.”

Melissa stared at the door, unsure, for several minutes. When she opened the door, Melanie was gone. She went back to peek down and see if Gavin was still out there. After seeing him down there pacing she sighed and headed back out. With arms folded tight, she slowed as she neared him.

“Melissa.” Gavin stopped his relentless pacing with a jolt. “I didn’t think you’d come back out.”

“Melanie said she already told you that you were an idiot so I don’t think I need to but I would like the apology she said you were waiting to give me.” She took a step back when he moved toward her.

He stopped immediately. “Melissa, I’m sorry. My brain stopped working. I thought you were telling me you had a boyfriend and were blowing me off after teasing me. All I could think of was getting out of here.”

She nodded. For a second she felt like she was back at that party, trying to fade into complete invisibility in the corner. She shook herself and refocused back on Gavin who was still speaking.

“Again, I am sorry for how I reacted and I’m also sorry for awkwardly lingering after I’m the one who got mad at you. Don’t worry. I will leave you alone, I promise. Forget I asked you on a date. Maybe I can someday overcome the mess I’ve made of tonight. If you ever give me the chance to ask you out again it would be so much better than this so let’s pretend that I didn’t ask.”

“Does that mean you are asking me to forget the whole night? Forget I know you? Are you wanting a complete restart?”

“Well…” Gavin chuckled weakly. “After all that trouble convincing you to tell me your name, you want me to start completely over?”

Melissa sighed. “Maybe. How are you going to convince me of anything if you run off and hide?”

“I’m not going to hide. I’m trying to bow out gracefully. Give you some space. Be a gentleman and all that.” Gavin kicked at some of the gravel on the sidewalk.

“Then when will this convincing and overcoming happen?” Her arms were still folded but her shoulders relaxed.

Gavin gave a sort of sheepish half smile. “Tomorrow?”

“I have class most of tomorrow. However, I’ll be studying at those tables over there at 2.” Melissa shrugged. “I’m done at 3 and I won’t be sitting around waiting for anyone to come.”

“2 o’clock. I’ll be there.” He gave a quick nod. “With the exception of that last minute of our walk, I want you to know that I loved walking you home. You are a great person to talk with. I’ll see you tomorrow, Melissa Janson.” With a little bow he walked away.

Melissa ~Part 2~

If you want to read part 1 of Melissa’s story, click here.

It took longer than Melissa had expected to shake Gavin’s company. He was courteously persistent in making sure she wasn’t alone and having a good time. Eventually another partier needed him who he couldn’t foist off till later. Something about someone about to break someone, or something. Whichever the case, Melissa took that tiny opportunity to make herself invisible once again.

After a good half hour of dodging and hiding Melissa was ready to leave. Looking around, she couldn’t find Devin. In fact, she hadn’t seen him in a while. She searched the main floor for him but was not about to venture upstairs and go interrupting who knew what. With a shrug she headed toward the front door. Walking home alone was better than staying.

Luck was on her side as she spotted a girl that she was pretty sure lived down the hall from her. Mustering up all of her social bravado, Melissa approached the tall blonde.

“Hi. Melanie, right?” Melissa stumbled a little.

The girl nodded. “That’s right. You live near me, right? I see you all the time.”

“Yes!” Melissa nearly cried. “Are you headed home?”

Melanie nodded. “Yeah, a group of us are going. You want to come?”

Melissa took one more careful glance around the room. “Is that alright? My ride disappeared.”

In minutes she was out the door and surrounded by several giggly girls throwing their names at her as if she was going to remember any of them.

“Melissa!”

She turned at the sound of her name, however it wasn’t Devin that was running after her. “Gavin?” The entire group of girls stopped to look. At the sight of Gavin they began to preen and toss their hair. Melissa shrunk into herself as he came closer. 

Thankfully one of the girls stepped forward to meet him. “Where are you going? Don’t you have a party to host?”

“Eh. They won’t notice.” He shrugged, tossing his charisma into his full watt smile. He pinned Melissa once again, looking around the girls between the two of them. “Besides, you were leaving.”

Another one of the girls stepped up. “That is so sweet of you to come give out personal goodbyes. Your party was killer.”

“Thank you.” Gavin nodded to several of the girls. “I am pleased you liked it. I’ll have to throw another one.”

Rachel or something that started with an R, grabbed his arm. “Oh would you? It is so hard to find good parties to come to.”

Gavin grounded Melissa to the gravelly sidewalk with a smile. “I’ll throw an even bigger, better party next weekend. On one condition.”

Melanie nudged Melissa when she didn’t say anything. “What condition would that be?”

“Melissa agreeing to go on a date with me.”

“Me?” Melissa blurted with a laugh.

Rachel pouted. “Why are all the good guys taken?”

Melanie snatched at Rachel’s arm. “Don’t be silly. Let’s give these two a little space to talk.”

“Oh, go ahead.” Gavin motioned down the street. “If I can manage it, I’m going to convince Melissa to let me walk her home.”

“You’ll manage it.” 

Melissa couldn’t see who had spoken. However, the entire group walked off giggling and laughing. Only Melanie glanced back and shot Melissa a quick wink.

Gavin’s smile grew slightly serious as he looked over at the departing group. “If you truly would feel more comfortable we can stay in sight of the group.”

“And have them glancing back every two seconds to catch a glimpse of you? No.”

He laughed. “Well then, in that case, if you trust me not to murder you or anything creepy, crazy, or whatnot I have a better way home.”

“You don’t know where I live.” Melissa folded her arms tight. She was doing better now that she was out of the house. There was much more air as well as plenty of space to breathe it in.

He tilted his head, watching the girls go. “If you were walking with Melanie, you probably live near her. Which means that you are either at the same dorm or close. I’ll get you that far and if you don’t feel comfortable telling me any more specifics, I will say goodbye at the corner. Deal?”

With a nod Melissa moved to follow where the girls had gone. Gavin stopped her by offering his arm. Once she took it he led her off in the opposite direction. 

Melissa let out a tight bark of a laugh. “See, now I’m not so convinced about the whole serial killer thing.”

He stopped so quickly that Melissa stumbled. She looked back to find him frozen in shock. He tried to turn her back around. “I’m sorry. I didn’t think.”

“Maybe if you told me where you wanted to go.”

“I was just going to take the scenic route. I guess I was being selfish, trying to get as much time as I could get with you, maybe convince you that I was worth saying yes to.”

Melissa smiled but didn’t move even though he tugged back toward the direct way home. “Saying yes to what exactly.”

“A date.” Though his smile was a bit sheepish it still packed a punch.

She nodded and found that she was still nodding a minute later. 

Gavin chuckled. “I haven’t asked yet but I’m starting to feel like I can take that nod as a yes?”

Immediately she stopped nodding and blushed. “You’d have to ask first.”

“I vote that we take that walk first. That way I have a fighting chance.” He tapped her hand that was still loosely on his arm. “How about you choose our route home?”

Melissa gave a short little nod.

As they began to walk Gavin spoke as he looked back over at his house. “So, you never did tell me who convinced you to come to my party. They must be someone pretty important to get you there.”

Melissa tried to pull out her hand but he squeezed a little. Not enough to stop her, just enough to let her know that he didn’t want her to let go. She took a breath. “Just a friend from home who promised my mom that he would make sure I didn’t stay tucked away in my room.”

“He?”

She had his full attention now. “Yes. He.”

“Romantic interest there? Do I have competition?”

With a laugh she shook her head. “Devin is not interested in me. He’s known me way too long for that.”

“Devin? Devin Deja?” Gavin’s instant scowl shot nervous tingles up Melissa’s spine.

“You know him?”

His scowl didn’t fade. “Yes. You could say that. However, I do not want to get distracted talking about that twit.”

Click here to read Part 3 of Melissa’s story!

Melissa

“Are you going to hide in this corner all night?”

Melissa turned to face her new corner mate, easily snared by his twinkling eyes. “If all goes well…yes.”

“Why come at all then?” He leaned back against the wall next to her, his broad shoulder brushing against hers. She shifted but was already leaning against the corner so she only managed to rub shoulders with him again, sparking tingles to her fingertips.

“I was invited.” She looked back out at the crush of partiers.

“To the corner? Or to the party?” He also gazed out at the people talking and laughing around the room.

Melissa huffed. “I am going to ignore you now.”

“Aw come on.” He nudged her shoulder with his. “You can’t think that this is you being at a party. You’re just watching it happen. You could do that from outside the window just as easily.”

Folding her arms, she pointedly kept her gaze anywhere but his direction.

“You realize you are choosing to ignore the one person at this party who has come over in an attempt to include you in the very party you are pretending to be a part of. Right?”

Her jaw clenched tight.

“Am I getting to you? Maybe you can choose to not ignore me for two seconds and allow me to introduce myself?”

It was getting harder to not respond. She stared harder at the far wall, willing to have him give up and go away. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see him smile and lean closer.

It startled her when he whispered in her ear. “Are you being obstinate on purpose? Are you scared? You could just go home, you know.” When he paused, she almost sighed in relief but then he kept going. “Well, since you won’t give me your name, I suppose I must provide you with one. I vote Starla. Any objections?” 

She again tried to lean further away so he couldn’t reach her ear so easily. She couldn’t decide whether she wanted to smile and laugh with him or if she was ready to punch him in the face and storm out.

“Starla, it is. Though I may have to change it to something more provoking if you keep up the silent treatment. Now Starla, the main reason to go to a party is to meet people that could become friends. If you are sitting in the corner, curled up in a ball, ignoring everyone, you are missing the point of a party, especially this party.”

“I’m standing.”

“She speaks!” He pulls her into a hug. “Hello. And yes, I know you are standing.”

“I’m not talking to you.” She scowled.

“Oh ok.” He bit his lip to try and stop the smile but it burst out anyways. “And while we are not talking, do you mind shouting your name out into the universe? I love knowing who I am not talking to, unless it is Starla. Then I am a fantastic guesser.”

Instead of answering, Melissa pushed off the wall and went into the nearby room where a bunch of people were gathered around, watching two couples playing pool. She picked a table and sat.

“Bold move. Joining the party to avoid me. Luckily, I know how to follow.” He whispered as he sat down beside her.  “I’m Gavin.”

She noticed that several people nodded or smiled his way. And there were several girls who were glaring at her. She shrunk a little.

“Are you popular or something?” She muttered.

His focus broke away from the game and lasered into her. “Why would you ask that?”

She nodded in the direction of a few glarers. The instant he looked their way their daggery gazes melted into cheery smiles and flirty waves.

“Because of them?” He shrugged. “I wouldn’t say that a group of girls who think that a pretty smile is going to win them a date makes me popular. It only means that I’m attractive.”

“Ego much?” Melissa clamped her mouth shut, realizing she was no longer avoiding talking to him.

“Not really.”

Melissa pointedly watched the pool game, not taking her eyes off the green table, until a hand landed on hers. She swiveled to look at him.

“Don’t go back to ignoring me.” He gave her an exaggerated puppy dog look.

They were interrupted by several dolled up girls flouncing up.

“Hey Gavin.” One of them cooed, leaning in and laying her small delicate hand on his forearm. “You going to come dance?”

“Not now, Tracy.” He smiled. “Besides, wouldn’t Tommy be hurt if you weren’t dancing with him? Last I heard, the two of you were still dating.”

Tracy stuck out her lower lip in a pout. “He never wants to dance with me.”

“Sounds like something you need to talk to him about.” Gavin’s eyes landed back on Melissa but before he could say anything, another one of the foursome leaned onto the table.

“I’m single.”

He flashed her a devastating smile. He wasn’t even directing it toward her and Melissa was affected by it. “Yes, Layla. I know.”

Melissa held in her laugh but from the way his eyes lit up as he watched her, she could tell that he knew she was struggling to keep it in.

“Right now, I am trying to have a conversation with….” He nodded at her across the table, eyes sparkling with amused mischief.

Melissa rolled her eyes. “Melissa.” She begrudgingly supplied.

“Melissa.” Gavin smiled at her.

Another one of the girls looked confused. “Who’s Melissa?”

Melissa thought she would die from all the laughter she was holding in.

Gavin only smiled and pointed at Melissa.

“Ohhhh.” Miss Clueless nodded. “Hi Melissa.”

“Hi.” She gave a quick half wave.

“Let’s go find Tommy.” Tracy flipped hair over her shoulder and shot Gavin a pouty look.

Another minute and the girls were gone.

“Sorry about that. The hazard of being at a party where people know you, they always want to talk to you!”

This time she couldn’t hold it in.

His smile lit up even more as she laughed. “You have a beautiful smile.” He declared with a nod. “Want to play a game of pool?”

“In front of all these people?” Melissa looked around at all the people watching the current game. “No.”

“Who brought you here?” Gavin asked with a surprising edge to it.

Instantly, her jaw clamped together and she shook her head, looking away.

He tilted his head to get back in her line of sight. “You aren’t going to tell me? I can find out anyway.”

“How?”

He shrugged. “You have to leave sometime.”

“So do you.” She quipped. 

But he was already shaking his head as he smiled. “No I don’t.” He raised his hands and presented the room to her. “This is my house.”

“Oh…” She stopped, unsure what to say. “Well, hi.”

“Now I earn a hi because I own a house.”

“You own an incredibly beautiful and classy house.” She gave a small smile.

He grinned right back at her. “Don’t think you can distract me.”

Her shoulders caved inward a little. “I came with Devin Deja.”

Click here to read part 2 of Melissa’s story!

Lisel

Lisel grimaced at her face in the mirror. She shouldn’t have let her roommates do her hair and makeup. They had insisted that she looked like perfection. 

Her second mistake had been letting them pick what she wore out tonight. And the third mistake was that she had let them convince her to walk out to the car having not seen any of her new look all together.

She knew that the dress she was wearing was way too tight but at least she could feel the fabric approaching her knees. Yet that had been her only consolation. Now, looking into that mirror in the too bright bathroom she didn’t want to stay for another second.

Having just spent half the night either crammed 3 people deep in a booth or out dancing with everyone on the dance floor there hadn’t been a spare moment to sneak away until now. And maybe the saying was right. Ignorance could be bliss.

Thinking back over how her night had been going, a lot more of the looks and comments she’d received made sense. Her roommate had caked on the makeup. She didn’t even look like herself. Instead, she looked like a walking makeup ad, complete with over-stylized hair and a lacy red dress.

The overall look was making her stagger.

It’s not like she looked depraved or wanton. It wasn’t her at all. None of it was. Everyone she had met and might have been interested in her would only want and see this stranger in the mirror.

“Lisel? Where are you?” She heard Angie calling. Stepping away from the mirror Lisel tried to hide the look of horror she had seen in her reflection.

“Coming.” She called. Squaring her shoulders, she opened the door and plastered on a fake grin. “I haven’t been gone long.”

“No, but Lance is asking where you are. I figured that I wouldn’t make him wait any longer than he has too. A good looking guy like that shouldn’t have to wait for anyone or anything.”

I had to bite back my snort. What did good looks have to do with waiting?

“If Lance can get distracted by another girl because I am not where he wanted to see me the second he wants to see me then I am not interested, ever.”

Angie gave a tittering giggle as if I’d said the most hilarious thing.

I couldn’t think of any way to respond to her giggle, so I didn’t. We were both silent the rest of the way to the booth.

As we were passing the dance floor, Angie started to shimmy as she walked. I rolled my eyes and kept walking.

And there he was, in all of his glory, sprawled out on one side of the booth while flashing around his signature smirk. It seemed to be working well for him with all the other girls at the table batting their eyes and laughing at everything he said, especially with the girl practically climbing into his lap.

I made it all the way to the table before he noticed me. So he definitely wasn’t waiting or looking for me.

“Lovely Lisel.” He called out over the music. “Sit your pretty little self right here by me.” He patted the 2 inch edge of the bench he was on as if that was enough space for me to sit.

Ignoring him, I sat on the opposite side next to a guy who must have joined the table after I had left. Immediately Lance sat up straight and glared at the man sitting next to me. It caught the new guy’s attention and he glanced over at me.

Upon seeing me, the newcomer quickly turned so that his back wasn’t facing me and smiled. “Hello there. You come to see me?”

Lance stood and reached for me. I leaned away and out of his snatching hands, while smiling my best sultry look at the newcomer. “Oh yes. You see I was walking by and noticed that your back was so appealing I just had to sit down.”

He smiled even bigger. “Sweet.”

Lance made another swooping grab for me and I let myself be caught, if only to end the conversation with the apparently brainless newcomer who couldn’t catch sarcasm.

I shot a deadpan look around the table at all the people who weren’t doing anything and refocused back on the newcomer. “This is my table. I came here with them.”

Several of the other girls heard my monotone declaration and were laughing behind their hands. “Oh.” At least he had the decency to look embarrassed at his assumption. Lance, on the other hand, was still tugging fruitlessly at my arm as if he could convince me that he was the man of my dreams simply by yanking me out of my seat and into his arms. I folded mine.

My voice turned achingly sweet. “What’s wrong, Lance?”

“I told you to sit by me.”

Yanking out of his grip I glared at him as fiercely as possible. “I am not a trained monkey, Lance. And I am definitely not going to be ordered around by an immature, conceited boy I met less than an hour ago.”

Right before I dramatically stormed away someone else entirely interrupted me, sliding up next to me.

“Lisel! There you are.” Cue gorgeous man number three. Unfortunately, I didn’t know him either. But he still came right up to me with a huge grin on his face. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you. I only have about 5 more minutes before I have to leave and you promised me a dance.”

I narrowed my eyes, trying to remember if I had met him.

He turned so that neither Lance or the rest of my table could see him wink at me. “You promised.”

The hesitation was slight as I reached to take his outstretched hand. With a crazy beaming smile I said, “Lead the way.”

In seconds, we were out of sight from my table of friends and in the middle of the dance floor. It was a slow song and he pulled me in close.

“I don’t remember promising you a dance.” 

He chuckled low in his throat. “I know.”

“What?”

He shrugged and kept his arms loosely around me. “I heard the one guy say your name and after a few seconds I could tell you needed an out that would keep your lame girlfriends from running after you and dragging you back to the table.”

“Well then, I am glad I promised you this dance.”

“Me too.” His smile made his eyes twinkle as we continued to slowly twirl around the other couples. “I’m Brayden.”

Candice ~Part 3~

To go back and read Part 1 of Candice’s story, click here.

To read Part 2 of Candice’s story, click here.

Arriving at Mai Branton’s office was a blur. Probably because Candice was first escorted through a gorgeous, sprawling villa to reach it. The whole place was stunning. Artwork, fountains, gardens, people, dozens of turns she couldn’t keep track of, and her brain was still spinning through every word spoken in the car with Prince Dalton. A part of her still could hardly comprehend that she had seen him in person, let alone speak with him.

Thankfully Felix was still with her, leading her through the maze of hallways. When he stopped in front of a random door that looked no different than any of the other ones they had passed, Candice had to rock back hard on her heels to avoid slamming into him.

“Are you sure it’s this one?” She blurted. “How do you know it’s this one?”

“Don’t worry, miss. This is the one.” He didn’t wait any longer, opening the door and heading in. Candice reluctantly followed after him, taking a deep breath as she went.

Mai did not smile as Candice entered, instead moving to pull several papers off the printer. “Ms Evans. I trust your ride was uneventful.”

Surprised, Candice glanced over at Felix. He smiled and shook his head slightly. Thankfully Ms Branton did not notice since she was focused on the papers she’d printed.

“Yes, thank you.”

“Alright.” Ms Branton motioned to the seat across the desk from her. “Please take a seat. I have an agreement for you to sign as well as your schedule for the next few days. I hope you understand that some training will be necessary to prepare you for your required appointments and events. Questions?”

“What does the agreement entail? And what is my boss thinking is happening?”

“Your boss will be told in the morning that you have been temporarily contracted to assist in the upcoming conference and are required to be attending training meetings and such. If we need you after the conference we will think of something else to tell him.”

It took over an hour for Ms Branton to cover all the details that were outlined in the agreement as well as her schedule for the next day. After everything was signed and all the questions were answered and all the ‘don’ts’ covered, Ms Branton escorted her to the suite where she would be staying for the duration of her visit.

As they walked, Candice shook her head. “I am so lost, I’ll never remember where to go.”

“I will make sure you receive a map with your schedule in the morning. And if you still get lost, ask any of the staff for help and they will be happy to assist.”

“Ms Branton, I have what may seem like an odd question.” She chuckled hesitantly. “Will I be seeing the prince before that first public engagement?”

Ms. Branton stopped walking. “Why?”

Candice faced her with a shrug, smiling easily even though she wanted to wilt a little under the suspicious glare she was being subject to. “I wouldn’t want to react oddly to meeting him for the first time with who knows how many people watching.”

“You have a point.” Ms Branton gave a sharp nod. “I will have to check his schedule. Your first appearance with the prince won’t be for another week so we should be able to find some time somewhere, even if it is for only a few minutes at a time.”

Opening the door to her room, Candice forced herself to not stumble to a stop. It wasn’t actually a room, it was a suite with a beautifully appointed sitting room and branched off into two rooms, one on either side. Ms Branton stopped just inside the door.

“Now Candice, you should have all the essentials you will need for the night in your room as well as some snacks. Dinner will be brought here tonight in about an hour. When they come, let them know any food preferences, dietary requirements, and such that you need. I will see you in my office tomorrow after you have your breakfast.”

“Thank you.” She stopped herself from bowing. “I’m unsure how to fill the gaps in etiquette. I know how I’m supposed to act in public…”

Ms Branton shook her head. “Do not worry. We will cover it all tomorrow.”

Candice nodded and wandered further into my huge room as she heard the door click shut behind Ms Branton. She didn’t get farther than a small side table that was not visible from the door, sitting beside the sofa. Not seen from the door, laying there on that table, was a phone. Candice hurried to pick it up and rush to the door, turning it over in her hands. As she made it to the door, it buzzed in her hand.

Luckily she glanced down at the screen before she opened her door because she discovered that the text, several texts, were for her. 

Candice? 

Candice stared down at the phone and opened another. 

This is Dalton…the prince. I hope this phone is somewhere you can find it.

Apparently the prince was very swift on fulfilling promises. Her fingers fumbled and she unlocked the phone. As she hurried to open the messages she dropped the phone. Laughing to herself she picked it up and took a shaky breath, moving over to the sofa to sit. And breathe.

Another text came in before she began to type.

Dalton: I can only imagine what you will think when you find this phone with hundreds of texts from a random guy you just met. Ha.

Candice laughed. And finally sent her text.

Candice: You have amazing timing. I almost took the phone to Ms Branton thinking someone had left their phone. And you are not a random guy. Though I do appreciate the thought of acting like a beacon with all the texts to ensure that I noticed the phone.

Dalton: You found it!

Candice:  You managed to get me a phone. I admit to being surprised at how fast you followed through.

Dalton: Let’s just say that I was motivated to be prompt. I’m curious about this whole pastry thing you so fetchingly whispered into my ear. You definitely had my attention.

Candice blushed, writing, deleting, and rewriting different responses before settling with: Fetchingly? I was going for convincing.

Candice ~Part 2~

If you missed Part 1 of her story, click here.

My phone rang as I stepped out of Stella’s Bakery at the end of my shift. I had a guess who was calling and even after spending the rest of my shift trying to figure out if I would say yes to playing the part of a Countess, I still didn’t know my answer.

It rang again, startling me from my thoughts. After a deep breath, I answered. “Hello, Candice Evans speaking.”

“Candice. This is Mai Branton. Have you made your decision?”

“Wow. You weren’t kidding about needing an answer once my shift was over.” I stopped on the curb. “What if I hadn’t called the number until now?”

“Then we wouldn’t be having this conversation.” There was a slight pause. “You are going to say no, aren’t you?”

I shrugged. “I don’t feel right, lying to the prince.”

Mai laughed. “Oh you won’t be. He knows. In fact, he is part of the team searching for her stand in. He chose you.”

“Prince Dalton chose me to fill in for his fiance?”

“Would that change your answer?” Mai’s voice sounded hopeful.

Hastily reassessing, I slumped to sit down on the curb. “If he knows, then I guess it’s fine. How long?”

“Until Countess de Launcey is located.” Mai sighed. “Now, get off the ground and let’s be on our way.”

I shot to my feet and looked around. I couldn’t see the woman I remembered from the bakery anywhere. “Can you see me?”

“No, dear. I can only imagine how I would take the news of all this. I will send a car to pick you up. Are you on your way home or still at the bakery?”

I glanced back at the bakery and smiled. “I am standing in front of the bakery. Should I wait here?”

Mai’s voice crackled for a second, as if she were talking to someone away from her phone. Then she was back. “Stay there. Felix is on his way. Black sedan with our flag on the door panel. He will identify himself before approaching you. See you in a few.”

With that, the phone disconnected and I stared at the blank screen.

Ten minutes later a black sedan pulled up a few feet away and a tall smiling man stepped out, tipping his hat toward her. “Miss Evans? My name is Felix. Miss Branton sent me to fetch you.”

“A pleasure to meet you, Felix. Do you know if it would be possible for me to stop by my house for a minute?”

Felix opened the back door and bowed. “I believe that has already been put on the schedule for tomorrow. Is there something urgent you need to retrieve?”

Candice shook her head. “Other than necessities, no. Tooth brush, pajamas, that sort of thing.”

“We have some options available for you in the guest suite. No worries there, miss.”

Candice nodded and got in. She gave a small squeal when she realized she wasn’t alone. Thankfully her first instinct was not to strike out. “Prince Dalton!”

Felix dipped his head down, confusion on his face. “Did Miss Branton not inform you that he would be in the car?” Felix looked to the prince.

Prince Dalton waved him away. “It is my fault, Felix. I will deal with Miss Branton when we arrive. You will not get in trouble.”

I edged away from the royal with as much subtlety as I could manage. However, when his attention came back to me I couldn’t see straight.

“I am truly sorry to give you such a start, Miss Evans. I merely could not resist meeting you away from all the prying eyes.” He extended his hand. “A pleasure to meet you. Thank you for stepping in during this crisis.”

“I…you…hi.” Words were not working well for me at the moment.

Prince Dalton chuckled. “Hi.”

“I don’t know how I am supposed to address you. I know I’m going to be pretending to be a countess, and your fiancé at that but you know I’m not. Do I call you different things depending on the situation? How do I know which situation warrants which address? Does the countess run away often?” I clamped my hand over my mouth and took a deep breath. “Sorry.”

“No. I understand how this would all be very confusing. Especially if I am the first royal you have met.” One eyebrow raised in question at that.

“I…yes. You are my first royal. Not mine. Erm.” I lost the battle to not squirm a little in my seat.

Prince Dalton smiled. “Not to worry. Please call me Dalton, in private and public. That way, there is no confusion. Callista and I were on a first name basis, so you calling me anything else would raise questions.”

My mouth gaped, but only for a second. I reigned in my shock as quickly as I could. “Do you like pastries?”

I could see the surprise on his face at the abrupt change of topic but refrained from taking it back.

“I do.” His smile was back and more dazzling than ever. “Why?”

“Oh. I sell pastries. And my favorite thing is helping people find their favorite. Do you have a favorite?”

I watched as he thought, surprised that he didn’t have an answer right away.

“You know, Candice, I don’t think I’ve ever had someone ask me that. Usually I eat whatever pastry is brought. And I enjoy it. Would you be able to help me discover my favorite?”

“Oh, I wasn’t implying that you had to have one. I was only making conversation. Pastries are one of the things I know best.”

He laughed. “Then we are sure to be able to find my favorite. Say you’ll help me.”

“I already am.” I smiled. “Though I’m sure I can manage helping with both.”

The car stopped and his smile disappeared behind a neutral, rather regal expression. I was immediately intimidated again. Before I could question the sudden change, the door opened.

“After you, Miss Evans.” Prince Dalton motioned politely to the door. Gone was the man who had been laughing with me only moments before. For a brief second, I wondered if I would ever get to see that side of him again or if I would only be seeing him at the necessary public obligations as his Countess de Launcey.

I whispered softly. “We have to find your favorite flavor first. I’ll make up a list.”

A flash of humor momentarily brightened his eyes as he whispered back. “I’ll be sure to get you a phone with my number in it so we can begin our investigation.”

On impulse I squeezed his hand and exited the car.

Come back next week for Part 3 of Candice’s story!

Candice

“Order for Kenley.” Hank called out.

I winced as Kenley grabbed her order. While I knew that Hank having a good loud voice was great for helping the customers know when their food was ready, but him yelling right next to my ear was wearing my nerves down to nothing. I was flinching every time he stepped up beside me.

Shaking it off, I turned to the next person in line. “Welcome to Stella’s Bakery. What can I get for you?”

A woman dressed in a black power suit with an expression to match stepped up to the counter. She didn’t glance at the menu board or the pastry display. Her gaze remained locked on me and there wasn’t a smile to accompany it. I braced for her complaint. I gave her my best customer service smile and mustered up all the patience I had left.

Instead of ordering or complaining, she laid a business card down on the counter in front of me. “You have been called to serve your country and your crown. Call me when your shift is done.” The woman attempted a smile but it didn’t show in her eyes. Maybe she wasn’t used to using her smile muscles.

In seconds, the woman was out of line and walking out the door. For a second, I thought about running after her and demanding an explanation to such an odd phrase. However, with the line winding through the shop I couldn’t give myself any more time to think about the woman’s unusual announcement. There were other customers waiting who did want to order. Slipping the card off the counter, I shoved it into my work apron and got back to work.

“Welcome to Stella’s Bakery. What can I get for you?”

An old balding man smiled at me. “I don’t know.”

“Any favorite flavor or type of pastry?” I gave him a bright smile back. My secret favorite part of my job was helping people discover their favorite pastry.

“Lemon?” He said. “Do you have that here?”

“We do.” I nodded, pointing at the display case next to me. “We have lemon tartlets, creamy lemon mousse cups, chocolate covered lemon truffles, and powdered lemon drops.” I leaned over the counter. “Lemon is my favorite too.”

“Candice.” My boss called from the back room. “Your 5 minute break was due an hour ago. Take it now before I have to fire you for loving your job too much.”

I laughed. “I’ll get right on that.” Turning back to the old man. “I guess you are going to be my last customer before I have to go on break. Did any of those sound like something you want to try?”

“I’ll take one of each.” He smiled. “And a lemon tartlet for you to have on your break.”

“Aww thank you sir. I can’t. It’s policy.” I sighed. I rang up his order and handed him a bag full of his pastries. “Enjoy.”

Disappearing into the back room I rolled my shoulders and slumped back against the wall. Heading to the small closet-like break room I grabbed my phone and went out back into the alley. As far as alleys go, it was neat and clean and I loved the fresh air.

While checking my texts and skipping past the ones from my mother, I remembered the business card I had stashed in my apron. Pulling it out, I looked it over. Mai Branton. I hesitated at the phone number. She had basically demanded I call when my shift was over. It wasn’t over but I didn’t want to wait another two hours to figure out what was going on.

A second later I was calling.

“Hello Candice.” The voice was the woman who had handed me the card. “Your shift does not end until 3.”

“I’m on break. Who are you?” I kept my voice steady even though my hands were shaking.

“As it says on the card my name is Mai Branton. I am the royal advisor’s head of logistics.”

“Ok. Why are you talking to me?”

“There is a situation. And when going over our options your name came up.”

“My name? From who?”

There was a hesitation. “I wish we could have this meeting face to face but I could not arrange it. I shouldn’t say this before you agree to help but I think you have a right to know. However, if you do repeat any of what I am about to say you will end up in jail, at the very least. When reviewing our options your name didn’t come up, it was your picture. You match the description we need.”

“You need someone who looks like me?”

“Yes.”

My breathing caught and my chest constricted. “Am I going to be framed for something?”

Mai chuckled. “No. Something much more exciting. Countess De Launcey is missing and you fit her description well enough that with some heels and makeup you can pass for her.”

“Why not just find your countess?”

“We are trying. And in the meantime she has some high profile engagements that she can not miss. You won’t be making any decisions or changing laws. We just need time to locate her without hysteria over a missing noble.”

“So you want me to fill in for the Countess De Launcey?”

“Yes.” After a pause she continued. “You will be well compensated and arrangements will be made so that you will not get in trouble with your employer or school.”

I began to pace. “Do I have time to think about it?”

“Till the end of your shift. We will have to work through the night to make sure you are ready for the essential upcoming engagements.”

“Like what?”

“Luncheon with Prince Dalton.”

I dropped my phone. As I scrambled to pick it back up Hank popped the door open. “Is your break almost over? The line is piling up out there. Tonya’s shift just started and could really use your help.”

“Coming.” I shoved my phone into my apron and headed back inside.

Come back next week for part 2 of Candice’s story!

Natalie

“Oliver!” 

“Yes, Ms. Penrose?” A tall, well dressed and handsome man accompanied his darkly honeyed voice as he strolled out of his corner office in response to her yell. He smiled over at where she was standing halfway out her office door.

Natalie handed him a sheaf of papers. “You told me to holler as soon as these arrived.”

“I did.” He chuckled. “After all these years, I am still amazed by your remarkable knack for details.”

“All these years? You make it sound like I’ve worked for you forever. It’s only been 3 years.” She scoffed as she moved back into her smaller office. 

Oliver followed. “That’s a lifetime for me. Before you, I couldn’t keep hold of an executive assistant for more than a week.”

“True.”

“And yet, after three years of great teamwork, you still insist on being called Ms Penrose.” He leaned against the doorframe, a cajoling tone entering his voice. “You call me Oliver.”

Her hands went to her hips as she laughed. “Only at your insistence.”

“Then I insist you allow me to call you Natalie at work.”

She was shaking her head before he even finished speaking. “Mr Hickson, if you insist on that, I may have to insist on two weeks’ notice. Besides, you call me Natalie all the time.”

“Yes, but only outside the office.” He pointed a finger at her. “And do not call me Mr. Hickson.”

She folded her arms and smiled up at him. “Outside the office is when we are friends and you are not my boss.”

“If you weren’t so competent, Ms Penrose, I’d fire you.” He scowled and pushed off the door frame. “I’ll need you in my office at 3 tomorrow. There’s a deal being discussed that I will need your insight on after the initial talks are complete. You might as well be there in case you have any questions you need me to ask in my follow-ups.”

Natalie nodded and added a reminder on her computer. “I’ll be there. I also got a call from the Farrow Charity. They have not yet received your answer. Were you expecting me to reply for you?”

“The Farrow Charity? Isn’t that this weekend? I can’t go. I don’t have a date.”

Natalie leaned back in her chair and laughed. “So get one. I will let them know you will be coming with a plus one.”

“Don’t do that. Then I’d actually have to look for a decent date. And I don’t have time for that. How about this? If you want me to go so badly, you find me someone.” He pouted for a mere moment then glared. “Isn’t it your job to see to all the details?”

“No.” She glared. “I see to the details of your work life, not your personal life. Besides, you never like the dates I get for you. And at the end of the date, they don’t seem to like you either.” Natalie shook her finger at him. “If I find someone, you will have to promise to be nice and charming and at least pretend you are thrilled to have her there. Olivia still won’t speak to me after that disastrous gala she attended with you.” 

“That was not my fault.” He leaned over the desk. “And you never let me defend myself about that one.”

“There was a picture in the newspaper, Oliver. That told me all I wanted to know. And Desiree scowls at me everytime I even mention work. Who else?” She paused. “Oh wait. How could I forget about Bree or Nicole? Your history of dates with people I know is abhorrent. Now, you either agree to my terms or go find your own date.”

He didn’t move. “Why can’t you be my date?” His smile grew. “You would be the perfect date.”

“No, I wouldn’t.”

“And why is that?”

With a triumphant smile Natalie crossed her arms. “Because it would be a work event and I would have to insist you call me Ms Penrose all night.”

“You’re joking.”

She shook her head and went back to work, leaving him standing there. He didn’t move for several minutes, silent. After the first few minutes, she stopped glancing up to see if he was still there.

“Ms Penrose.” His pensive voice startled her.

Natalie set down the paper she was revising and looked up. “Yes, Oliver?”

“Work is over. Shouldn’t you be heading home?”

Glancing at the clock, she nodded. “You’re right. See you tomorrow.” As she stood, she glanced over at him. “Don’t forget to find a date. I’ll be telling them that you’ll be bringing one.”

He nodded. “May I walk you out?”

Side by side, they walked out to the sidewalk. Since she lived close, she always walked. However, his walking with her was new. And since he offered no explanation Natalie slowed down and peered over at him. As he continued to walk with her, she laughed. “Are you lost or are you going to walk me all the way home in an attempt to convince me to set you up with someone?”

Oliver glanced back at their office building and smiled, ignoring her question completely. “Would you say that we are officially no longer at work?”

She shrugged. “I suppose so. Are you waiting for me to call you Oliver before you leave? Is that why you are following me? See you tomorrow, Oliver.”

His hand on her arm stopped her as she turned to continue her walk home. When she looked over, he smiled broadly. “Natalie, my dear friend, dearest of all my friends, I don’t know if you know this but I have this charity thing I have to go to because my executive assistant is insisting I go and I would be honored if you would come with me as my date.”

“Oliver.”

He put his hands up. “Natalie, I am asking as a friend, not as your boss. Now you can’t insist on me calling you Ms Penrose at the Farrow Charity night.”

“I’m also not required to accept.”

“But will you anyways?” He gave her a huge fake pout. “Please.”

With a sigh she shook her head. “Put that face away and I’ll think about it.”

“Yes!’ He whooped.

“I didn’t say yes.” Natalie began walking away.

He called after her, “But you will!”