1.

'' We should totally go out and celebrate, my treat.''

             I wasn't surprised in the slightest that my best friend was already making plans to hit the nightclub scene, we had barely even finished college with two days left and she was already tossing around ideas of what to wear and where to go. Leila Brooke always found excuses to go out and dance the night away, spending more money than she could afford. I on the other hand much preferred to sit at home and indulge in a good book maybe even splash out and order in a Chinese takeaway. However, I could never resist her charms, she was very persistent and very beautiful with her shoulder length wavy blond hair with multiple highlights of blond and bold brown eyes. Whenever she wanted to do something she would pout and look so childish, she could get anybody to do whatever she wanted, it was her hidden talent to be able to twist people around her little finger. It's why she always left boys broken hearted. ''I'm pretty sure we actually have to finish college and have our qualifications in our hands before we can go out clubbing, wouldn't want to jinx it or anything.'' I stated as I flicked over the page of the book I had been trying to finish all week, I pulled my attention away from my book to see Leila pouting at me whilst fluttering her long thick eyelashes with her hands on her hips, ‘’Come on Lottie, stop trying to put a downer on everything, you should get out there and enjoy yourself, we’re not going to be young forever and we’ll only finish college one- unless you plan on being one of those adult learners..’ I placed my bookmark firmly in my book and closed the book then turned to face the most frustrating girl on the planet, ‘’honestly, I’m not talking about a bender or a manhunt. I just think it would be good to let our hair down and enjoy ourselves before Friday’’ she insisted.  I rubbed my forehead with my index finger clearly showing my frustration, ‘’Fine, but I’m not getting wasted’’ Leila flashed me her winning smile, clapped her hands and ran down the hall to her room. I blew a wayward strand of hair from my face, picked myself off the couch along with my book and headed off to my en suite bathroom.

 

I stared into the mirror above the sink at the pale girl staring back, my big green eyes looked too big for my small face, my lips were puffy but small and pale pink, I rarely needed lip gloss because they looked fine without. My inky black hair fell in waves around my face, it was well cut and shoulder length, very easy to tame. I removed all my clothing and chucked It into the basket and stepped under the warm spray of the shower, showering was my favourite pass time, the only place I could really think and have peace and quiet. Washing and shaving quickly I showered within ten minutes because I knew how impatient Leila was when she wanted to go out, I took a big fluffy towel and switched the shower off, cautiously stepping onto the tile floor I wrapped the towel around my body I headed off into my bedroom in search of a hairdryer and my straighteners to make my hair look semi-presentable. Once I found them, I headed off to my vanity table to tackle my hair and face, sitting in my towel I dried my hair and straightened the ends, gripping the sides to keep my hair from falling into my face as it gets very hot and sweaty in a crowded club. Applying mascara and blusher to add colour to my face I was finished, all I needed to do now was to found a decent outfit.

 

After half an hour, we were both ready to leave, Leila called a taxi whilst I impatiently drummed my fingers against the kitchen countertop, considering I didn’t want to go out this evening I was pretty edgy to leave and get on the dance floor. Perhaps it was the killer heels and my fitted silver backless halter neck dress which had gotten me in the mood, one dressed up there was no backing down. Once we arrived we were lucky enough to find a club where the queues were quite short so it took less than fifteen minutes to get into the club. We headed straight to the bar to buy our drinks, Leila suggested that we took it in turns so I agreed and asked for a vodka lemon and lime, I waited at the end of the bar for her to return with the drinks. At twenty past eleven I was in full partying swing, dancing the night away and very tipsy. Leila had wandered off exchanging phone numbers in the far corner of the club with a guy, all dancing and grinding by the looks of it. After a while my feet started to feel numb, so I walked over to the seating area and took off my heels. ‘’ Hey, Lottie, I’m going to head home, want to come back with me or are you fine here?’’ I looked up at Leila, she was grinning from ear to ear and the guy from earlier was standing behind her looking slightly impatient, I guess he was going home with her, totally didn’t need to witness that. ‘’No I’m good for a while, you carry on, have fun, but not too much’’ I winked at her and she laughed, waving me goodbye as she left with Mr. Impatient.  After a couple more drinks, I threw myself back into clubbing like it was going out of style. I continued to dance even when my feet felt like they were going to fall off, I got talking to a few people my own age which made me feel more comfortable rather than seeming extremely lonely. A few man grabbed my waist and tried to dance with me, by which point I headed off to the bathrooms to get away from them, I definitely wasn’t on a manhunt. It was getting late, almost half two, so I decided it was time to head home. I waited outside the club whilst I rang a taxi and sat on the curb whilst I waited for it. A stream of quickly moving pedestrians flowed around me, I didn’t know why I had do much reservation about going out when I always had so much fun. I was staring across the road when I heard somebody come up behind me, ‘’Hey, are you okay?’’ I turned round and stared into the eyes of the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen, I lost my balance and fell onto my back, still staring into his gorgeous face. I tried to snap out of it, ‘U-umm, yeah I’m fine, just waiting for a taxi, thanks’’ I barely managed to speak, he was so breath-taking, his eyes were mesmerising, they were a stormy grey, his lips a perfect shade of pink and so beautifully shaped, he smiled at me and offered a hand, his thick brown hair was long and fell beautifully across his face, complementing his cheekbones and stubble. I gave him my hand, his skin was so soft, I almost thought I felt an electric charge, but I must have had one to many drinks, he pulled me off the floor almost in to an embrace, he placed his a=other hand on my shoulder to steady me. My mind wandered for a moment, I was thinking of how it would feel to kiss him, his lips looked so soft and plush. ‘’My name’s Tobias, Tobias Reed’’ H smiled at me, so genuine. I pulled by bearings together, ‘’I’m Charlotte, my friends call me Lottie’’ I managed, this time more firmly. ‘’Well that’s a lovely name, for a pretty girl, want me to wait with you whilst you wait for your taxi?’’ Oh right, my taxi, it had almost slipped my mind. ‘Um, yeah, sure, unless you have somewhere to get to, I wouldn’t want to keep you from anything.’ I looked around, it didn’t seem like he was with anybody. ‘’No im good, I was heading home myself, I saw you sitting on the curb and wandered if you needed any help with anything’’ I could see his eyes sweeping over me, I felt so attracted to him, usually I’d get pissed if someone even winked at me, but his eyes were different, I enjoyed the way he looked at me, like I was something to eat. ‘’Thankyou, that was kind of you.’’ I placed my hands over my arms feeling the chilly breeze, I seen his brows furrow together and then he shrugged out of his leather jacket and placed in around me, he smelt so good, I couldn’t put my finger on what it was. ‘’Thankyou’’ I muttered again. We stood in silence for a couple of minutes just looking at each other, I wander if he’s attracted to me too- What am I thinking, of course he isn’t. I shook away the line of thought just as my taxi arrived, I offered Tobias his jacket back, ‘’No you keep it, that way we have an excuse to see each other again.’’ He gave me a warm smile flashing his brilliant teeth and shoved his hands into his ripped jeans, which amplified his arms muscles in his tight black t-shirt. Mm, positively delicious. He offered me his number and I gave him mine in return, I smiled up at him after our transaction, ‘’I hope to see you around Tobias’’ He kissed my cheek, ‘’Please, call me Toby, and I very much hope to see you around too Charlotte, goodnight.’’ And with that he opened the taxi door to allow me inside, closed it behind me and waved as I drove off.

2.

I had a brutal hangover on Thursday morning, it was nothing more than I deserved, I should have gone home with Leila and saved myself all this unnecessary headache and nausea. However, if I had I’d have never met Tobias although I’m probably being foolish to think I’ll ever see him again. After a very long shower, I made my way into the kitchen to make myself a cool glass of lemon water. Still no sign of Leila, I supposed she was still her room- maybe with Mr. impatient, if he hadn’t already bailed, not that she’d care, she hated being attached to people, it’s why she insists on casual fucking or one night stands. With her looks, she could get anything she wanted. I stumbled towards the living room, placed my drink on the coffee table and slumped onto the sofa, luckily today was our timetabled day off from college so I didn’t have to brave my college tutors or the humming noise of the college atmosphere. After tomorrow, college is over and I’ll be looking for a job at least there will be no awkward graduation ceremony or picture day, just go in collect our grades and be done with it all. When Leila surfaced around noon accompanies by Mr impatient she had a very charming smile stretched across her face matching his. Hmm, odd that he is still here considering she doesn’t like to be attached to people, they headed into the kitchen grabbed some snacks and juice and headed on back not before a backwards glace from Leila in my direction with a wink. I just shook my head and buried my face into my book perhaps I could finally finish it.

 

As the sunlight poured across my bedroom floor indicating that it was Friday morning I pulled myself out of bed with a groan, I’d stayed up very late last night finishing off my book, but at least I had finished it and could return it to the local library, I preferred to take books out rather than buy them as Im not a risk taker and don’t like to waste money on something I may not enjoy, so this way I can enjoy a good book and have a healthy bank balance all at the same time- happy days. Leila decided to call a taxi to take us to college for our last day because she felt she needed an extra 30 minutes to get ready, after all she was up late too as Richard, formally known as Mr. impatient left at half eleven last night and she insisted on showering right after he left as well as this morning. I doubt she’ll be seeing him again although I can’t recall a time where I was on a first name basis with somebody she brang home, well, for somebody she brang home to sleep with. We rolled into college at precisely 8:55 so we had five minutes to get to our timetabled classroom to meet our tutor so that we can receive our grades for the overall course. We trailed up the long staircase to room 713 to be faced with balloons and cake and a stack of folders in the furthest corner, probably our portfolios and certificates. I sighed inwardly, I didn’t want a celebration at college, no fuss no party, I just wanted to get the hell out of here, I wasn’t the popular one in our college class, that was Leila and Steph Green our class reps, I preferred to sit at the back take notes and leave so I definitely didn’t want to spend any more time here than I needed to. I put on my poker face and walked through the double doors and falsely smiled at my class members, the same routine I had been pulling off for the Past two years.  Finally, Mr Wyatt came in and gave us a heart felt speech about how we have been a pleasure to teach for the past two years and how he will miss us all greatly and took it upon himself to hug each of us individually, when it was my turn I savoured the embrace as much as I could, mostly because I had a crush on him since the very second I saw him but also because I would never see him again. I soaked in his scent, hugo boss mixed with Lynx Africa by the smell of it his stubbly facial hair slighty grazing my face as he bent down to embrace me, his medium length dirty blonde hair falling around his face complimenting his hazel eyes fell to one side as he swooped down, after a brief tight hug he pulled away and offered a sincere smile. ‘’ Good luck in the future, I’ll miss teaching you very much, I wish you well’ he uttered his words so that I believed he was talking directly to me with sincerity in his words not just a mantra he has been repeating to everybody in his classroom. ‘’You too sir, honestly, I’ll miss you and this college too, I’ll never forget’’ I offered up a warm smile and went off in search for Leila who I’d last seen muttering away with Steph and Caleb. ‘’ How long do you think this will go on for?’’ I asked Caleb, he peeped down at me with his piercing emerald eyes and shrugged his shoulders, ‘‘ An hour or two I guess, who knows, everyone seems to be having a great time, maybe they’ll drag it out all day’’ I nodded and turned away from him, I hope this doesn’t last another hour. Mingling for another 30 minutes I began getting impatient and bored with everyone, I couldn’t seem more disinterested if I tried I was itching to know my grades now and I couldn’t help but bite my nails. My Wyatt called everyone’s attention to the front of the classroom. ‘’ So, you’re all here for one last time, pretty sad right guys..’ he laughed knowing people weren’t really that bothered by it all ‘Anyway, I’d just like to be the first person to congratulate you all, no matter what those papers say behind me, I know you have all worked very hard over these past two years, I should know as I’ve taught you throughout both, you all deserve the best in life, don’t settle for anything always aim higher because you’re all capable and worth the best..’ he offered everybody a warm sincere smile which made my heart melt. ‘So, this is it the moment you have all been waiting for, if you’d like to take a seat and I’ll call you up to collect your portfolio folders from unit 6 and your brown envelope containing your paper results and certificates, thank you for waiting, best of luck guys.’ He walked around the table he was standing in front of whilst we are sat on the nearest chairs placing our bags beneath the tables so that we could carry our things back with us.

It seemed like forever before my name was called, ‘Charlotte James’ I walked towards the table, probably too quick for anybody’s liking but who cares I was anxious and excited to find out. I shook Mr. Wyatt’s hand and took my envelope and folder and walked back to my seat, first I opened my portfolio, the front covered had been replace with a certificate stating I had achieved an A* for my unit 6 portfolio, I was chuffed, so I continued to open my envelope my results page was listed with 18 units to which I had a 10 A- A*’s, 7 B’s and one C. My certificate informed me that I had achieved an overall A*AA for my whole course, I was so please I practically hugged myself, I caught Leila’s eye from across the room and we thumbed up each other and grinned, definitely have to celebrate no doubt about it. As Mr Wyatt said another farewell, everybody began to pack away their belongings, so I pulled my bag out from under the desk, placed my envelope inside my folder and placed it neatly in my bag, I reached into the pocket to retrieve my phone which I hadn’t looked at since the day before, 3 messages and 1 miscall. I made a mental note to check who they were from once I got back home. Leila and I exchanged grades on the bus ride home, laughing and smiling with genuine happiness at our success and achievement. Once back in our small apartment we opened a few bottles of Kopparberg strawberry and lime poured them into a massive jug filled with ice put them through the blender to make an alcoholic slush and sat on the balcony with some music filling the air. ‘’ We should do something awesome to celebrate, sure clubbing is fun but it’s a bit low key now, especially as we’re 19 we should totally go on holiday somewhere abroad, soon.’ Leila suggested, I looked at her, she was dead serious, ‘As much as that appeals, I really want to start looking for a job in London, we can go down to the beaches if you like, but I do want to get a job as soon as possible.’ She looked across the balcony at all the nearby buildings and turned back to face me, ‘’Look, I already applied for a job in Oxford, I received a letter yesterday saying I’ve got the job, that’s why I’d like to go away abroad with you before we rarely see each other, you’re my best friend and I know London is your dream so that’s why I never said anything about my job offer, to be honest it’s the closest job to London I could find.’ I threw my arms around her, ‘congratulations on your job.. .’ I pulled away ‘So what is the job? We’ll talk about this holiday thing another time, I feel like today is a great day, we’ve both achieved great grades and now my best friend has got a job, I want to  hear all about it’ She smiled at me and nodded and went into full swing talking about Blackwell publishing and all about the application process. I was really happy for her, she seemed enthusiastic about this opportunity and I knew she wanted to go into publishing but I never realised she’d make it so soon, I was proud of her. Six slushes later, Leila received a phone call from her parents to which she headed off to her bedroom to talk to them which reminded me of my texts and miscall so I headed off in search of my bag. I had 1 miscall from my dad, Robert James, judging from the time of the miscall he must of wanted to wish me good luck, flicking through the text messages I clicked on the one from my dad first it was very short and brief, highlighting how busy he is,

 ‘Gd luck Lottie, I knw u’ll do well, u always do, love you lots, dad’

I replied a quick thank you message and told him about my results. Robert James was the CEO of James industries, he owned several businesses across England and Scotland and was looking to open a few smaller businesses in Northern Ireland. Although, my dad was very rich and young for his age that wasn’t enough to keep my mom had an affair when I was only six years old which resulted in a divorce and I ended up living with my mom and only saw my dad during the holidays. I loved both my parents dearly, despite what happened between them they both care for one another. Dad never remarried whereas mom did when I was 11, to Cary Matthews, he too was a wealthy man however he was not a CEO like my dad he was just a very good lawyer, he treated my mom right and took care of her and she did the same for him. My second message was from my mom,

 ‘ Hey baby girl, I know I don’t need to wish you luck because you’re a very clever girl and I know you’ve done yourself and us very proud, you should come over on the weekend we could go shopping and have a nice girls day out, bring Leila if you like we can talk all about your results then, Much love, BFN xoxo’

I typed a quick thank you message and stated my result as well as a confirmation of the plans for the weekend, I scrolled down to the third message on my phone and my heart skipped a beat, it was from Tobias,

‘Hi Charlotte, remember me? Anyway, I was wondering if you’d like to meet up sometime, perhaps grab something to eat or drink, up to you, be nice to see you again soon, just text me back when you can, speak later x’

I hugged my phone like a childish schoolgirl, he wants to see me again, I couldn’t contain my excitement, I had to see him again, had it really been two days since I last bumped into him, I should tell Leila about him, maybe he just wants his jacket back, wait, he never said anything about his jacket, just me, oh I have to meet with him again. Suddenly I felt very nervous like I did when I was 17 going on my first date, feeling giddy I sat on my bed and clutched my phone in my hand thinking of the right response so not to seem too excited. After a while I typed a reply,

‘Hi Toby, sure, It would be really nice to see you again, we definitely should meet up some time, when would be the best time for you? I am free tonight if that’s soon enough. X’

 

I felt nervous as soon as I sent the message, I felt like I was 15 again, I turned the volume up on my phone and put it on my bedside table as I stalked off back towards the balcony to return to my drink it was just after four and the sun was still out, the sky still lightly lit, blue with a few scattered puffy clouds. It was beautiful, the air warm and breezy, it was perfect to relax in. Leila returned with a smile on her face, ‘Mom and dad are taking me out for a meal this evening to celebrate so I was just heading off for a quick shower and to get changed into something more appropriate as I can’t imagine walking out with them in these shorts and belly top, they’d have heart failure, see you in a bit Lottie’’ I laughed at her as she trailed back in the direction she’d just came from, mm, peace and quiet, definitely a perfect day. She left at around 6:15 and her parents driver had picked her up, lucky girl, her parents were very rich, both high up in society her parents both into publishing, although they were CEO and chairman to a publishing company in Birmingham, Seycole publishing, which branched out from Birmingham, to Bristol, Devon and Nottingham. It’s why Leila had a passion for publishing although she didn’t want to live off her parents and go into the family business so she wanted to make it on her own and start off her own company when she is around 24.She told me not to wait up for her, so I locked the balcony doors even though it was still rather early and still very bright out, I suspect the sun wouldn’t set till around 8-9 so I left the curtains open and headed off to my bedroom to find a decent dvd. My phone was flashing indicating that I had a text message, I headed over unlocked my phone to see that the message was from Tobias, I opened it and read,

‘Hey, glad you remember me, was a bit worried that you would have forgotten, tonight is perfect do you want to go out to grab a bite to eat or catch a movie, I can pick you up? X’

I quickly typed my response,

‘Food is perfect, I’ll meet you at 8, and how does the Bodega bar sound? It’s on Bennett’s hill by new street, I heard they do great Latin American food there, could be good x’

Almost instantly my phone signalled a text message,

‘That sounds perfect, meet you at 8, I can’t wait x’

I grinned at my phone, I had to get ready, and it was now 6:35 so I had an hour to get ready. I ordered a taxi for quarter to 8. Sorting through my wardrobe I picked out a knee length halter neck royal blue dress with silver heels and a silver hoop earrings I put them on my bed along with nude stocking, and a pair of lacy black French briefs, I didn’t need a bra as I had chosen a halter neck dress, so I hurried off for a shower, washing my hair re-shaving and using several body washes to ensure I smelt nothing less than a female I dried myself and then sat naked on my stool whilst I blow dried my hair I watched my reflection in the mirror, staring back at me was a girl who looked nothing less than over confident but that was just a shell inside I was very timid and I got nervous over very little things, like meeting Tobias, he was so perfect even though I’ve only seen him once, yet I was so shaken up to meet up with him, I continued getting ready applying mascara and blusher I left my inky black hair to spill naturally over my face and shoulders. Heading off towards my bedroom I began clothing myself. I’m probably making way too much effort, it’s just a bar why am I dressing up so much, shaking off my thoughts I continued dressing, starting with stockings, then my heels, panties, dress and hoops earrings I was finished by half 7 so I went into the kitchen to pour myself a cold glass of water and drank it very quickly to calm my nerves once I was finished I pressed the cool glass against my forehead, I returned to my room to collect my purse, bag, keys and phone and went outside to meet the taxi and headed off to my destination. What if I don’t make a good impression, last time I was way too drunk. Maybe I should just go home- No, stop being a wuss, you’re going to meet this sex god.

 

The taxi pulled up outside a light blue building, the exterior looked like it could be a local chippy not good, I was definitely overdressed, what is wrong with me, I paid my taxi fayre got out and headed inside the interior was well lit with a scatter of tables across the room, there was a café fell to the place and overhead lighting, tile floor and brick walls with a few potted plants scattered along the walls. The chairs were mostly plastic, greens, whites and a few metal silver ones although nearer to the entrance there were cushioned stools. I regretted the decision to come here almost instantly I turned to leave and bumped into a suited figure, I looked up into those perfect stormy grey eyes, my breathe hitched and I stumbled back, my cheeks instantly reddened with embarrassment, ‘Sorry, I didn’t realised how casual this place was, I’ve never been here before, I’m-we’re totally overdressed for this place’ I stated very apologetically, he smiled at me and flashed me his perfect white teeth. He looked so much different in his perfectly ironed grey suit black shirt and tie, the last time I’d seen him he was wearing ripped jeans and a tight black muscle shirt, his thick brown hair had been gelled back in the most beautiful way his facial stubble so neat and tidy, again I found myself wanting to kiss his perfect lips, ‘it’s fine, we can stand out together, I’m sure nobody will mind’ he said with amusement in his tone, he turned to place his hand to the small of my back, I felt the electric charge when he placed his hand on my back and felt myself leaning into him, stop it I warned myself, only going to embarrass yourself, he guided us to the far back tables by the fire exit and took two menus for us to order from. We both opted for tortillas, and Tobias insisted on buying a bottle of Veuve Cliequot Ponsardin for £49.50 for a café looking place it was sure expensive, we talked the night away laughing and joking about the pictures on the walls and talking about how it could have been worse, that they could have actually turned up at a chippy. The place was very busy, quite a few people were looking, no, staring at Tobias and sure he was beautiful but seriously keep an eye on your own companions ladies. I couldn’t believe how jealous I was getting even though he was watching me like I was the only person in the room, I loved that. ‘So how was your day? We’ve chewed over little things for well over an hour now and we still don’t know anything about each other’ I looked up from my champagne into his eyes, ‘Well, today has been kind of perfect, I successfully passed my college course, I received my results this morning A*AA actually so I did really well, weathers been great, and now I’ve spent my evening with you, not to be corny but yeah my evenings been perfect’ I sipped at my champagne not taking my eyes off his, ‘How about yourself’ I asked after I’d swallowed my drink. He smiled, took a large gulp of his drink and neatly placed his glass down, ‘My day has been perfect too, this morning I successfully made a profitable deal with a large overseas company in Seattle which I have been trying to close for the past three months, and now im spending my evening with the most beautiful girl I have ever laid my eyes upon’ his words were like silk across my bare skin his voice so soft and fluent, I blushed once more at the compliment, ‘ I raised my glass in the air towards him ‘To our success’ he grinned at me and we clinked glasses. ‘So how old are you? I’m 19 I’ll be 20 in four weeks or so’ I asked him with curiosity in my tone. What if he’s really old, I mean if he’s closing business deals what if he’s in his thirties, he is so boyish and care free though- ‘I’m twenty four’ he stated interrupting my thoughts, I flashed him a warm relieved smile, thank god.  We had finished eating at half nine but had continued to talk over little things like the weather, fruits that we liked, we continued to drink the delicious fruity champagne that Tobias had purchased...’I became a marketing director through being a secretary for my dad’s friend when I was your age and then I stepped up the ladder when I was twenty two, got my own office in stratbern industries, I’d like to go out and start my own marketing company within the year, that’s what my Seattle deal was for, to buy a large building that they own in London, that way I own my own business and they will be my largest shareholders as they will invest in me and my business.’ I was mesmerised by his eyes and lips, watching the way they moved as he performed his words, ‘Wow, I envy your passion for your work the ambitions you have and that you’re actually reaching for them, the only ambition Ive ever had is to work in London, just to make it out in the big wide world all by myself, I haven’t even began reaching for that yet’ I shrugged and shook my head circling my glass with my fingers as I spoke ‘It’s just I don’t know what I want to do yet, everybody else has it figured out..’ he was gazing at me, I could tell he was concentrating on me, nodding in all the right places, his expression barely readable it was just obvious that he was watching me and listening because he brows were fused together, I continued to look into his eyes as I spoke ‘My best friend, she has always wanted to go into publishing and she’s doing it she’s got a job for Blackwell in Oxford and I’m so psyched for her you know but I can’t help but feel a bit lost..’ I looked up and laughed pulling myself away from his eyes ‘Sorry, I must be boring you, can’t help myself’ He took my hand and fused his brows tighter and shook his head, ‘No it’s okay, I didn’t even know what I wanted to do at your age, it’s understandable, that’s actually why my dad insisted I go an work for his friend’ he shrugged as he finished his sentence, I could hear his genuineness in his voice, I smiled at him then he returned my smile with his, I nodded at him. ‘You should probably start out the same way I did, apply for some secretary jobs and work your way up into something you want to do once you’ve figured it out’ he suggested, I nodded ‘that would probably be a wise thing to do, I might start applying in about two weeks, give myself a bit of a break, I think I’ve earned it’ smiling up at him we were interrupted by a member of staff, ‘Sorry to interrupt but it’s half eleven and we were supposed to close up half an hour ago..’ we looked around at all the empty chairs, ‘Oh, we’re so sorry..’ I began to say looking up at her only to realised she had turned her gaze to Tobias, her cheeks flushing and eye lashed fluttering, Tobias looked away from my eyes to see what I was scowling at to return to my view with a raised eyebrow and a smirk, ‘Listen, here’s a twenty pound tip, we apologise for staying so late’ I was mesmerised by his authority and confidence in his voice even though he continued to look at me whilst fishing out his wallet and speak to the waitress..’ thank you for your hospitality this evening, we’ll be on our way now’ Tobias exclaimed with politeness his childish smirk returning , he stood up, walked around to my chair helped me up by placing his hand on the small of my back again, I felt the electric charge again, he waited politely for me to collect my belongings.  I hadn’t realised it was so late, nor did I notice the rest of the customers leaving. We headed out of the bar into a chilly night, the sky pitch black with a light dusting of stars, the breeze a lot colder than during the daytime, I instantly crossed my arms to keep myself warm and protected from the breeze, Tobias smirked, shrugged of his jacket and placed it on my shoulders ‘You’ll have to buy another closet soon for all my jackets’ He stated sarcastically with amusement in his tone, I giggled in response and muttered a simple ‘mhm’ we walked in silence, he has one of his hands buried in his left pocket and the other wrapped around my waist, there was an Audi R8 on the curb ahead, I was fascinated by it as we approached it, it was brilliant white, even though it was dark out with barely any lighting on the road there was absolutely no missing the beauty it was jaw droppingly beautiful. ‘I should call a taxi’ I stated, He turned his head towards me his expression quizzical ‘Or I could drive you home, it’s no trouble, in fact I insist upon it, it’s very late’ puzzling over the idea of spending more time with this gorgeous man, I came to the conclusion that it would be much better if he did take me home, plus I could give him his jacket back, not that he actually seemed bothered about losing another jacket.  ‘Please, that’d be much better, thank you.. So where are you parked?’ I looked up at him, he flashed his brilliant white teeth at me which made my heart stop, ‘here’ he clicked his fob and the lights on the Audi R8 flashed, I suddenly got all excited like a little girl ‘Wow, this is yours?’ I exclaimed shocked and excited at the same time, ‘This is amazing’ He chuckled, opened the door and gestured me inside. Wow, a gentlemen too, I really like Tobias, I wonder if he likes me too. He closed the passenger side door behind me and walked around the front of the car to his side, so much confidence in his stride, his suit fitted him in all the right places giving me a perfect view to imagine his flawless body, it was sensual. He climbed in, fished out his keys, revved the engine, ‘You should probably put your seatbelt on.. I trust my driving but safety is a big thing to me’ He looked serious but almost apologetic at the same time, I nodded and smiled, ‘sure, it’s your car, what you say goes’ I grinned and plugged my seatbelt into place. He pulled away from the curb and sped and swerved through the deserted streets with unnatural calm, just looking at him driving sent a heated flare of longing through my body, setting all my nerve endings off making my skin feel sensitive. I muttered my address when he asked, mesmerised by his eyes and lips and the way his hair was still gelled back, he was so sexy and masculine. After a further five minutes of driving he turned the corner and pulled up in front of my apartment building, the lights were all off on the fifth floor which either meant Leila was in bed or she still wasn’t home. Maybe I should invite him in for a coffee or something, as if he read my thoughts ‘It’s late’ he pointed out. Smiling up at him ‘Of course..’ I nodded, ‘I really enjoyed myself tonight we should do it aga-‘ His lips were on mine, his hand behind my head pulling me deeper into him, my breath caught and my heart lurched into an excited rhythm, my body responded to the proximity of his, my lips moving in synchronisation to his, our tongues coaxing each others with soft gentle brushes. My body sagged into him, moaning into his mouth just from the contact between us, my skin was tingling, craving for his touch. He pulled away all too soon, our breathing deep and fast, ‘Sorry..’ He began, ‘Shh, it’s okay, I kissed you back, I liked it- I really liked it so don’t apologize’ I stated still trying to gather my bearings, my head was spinning and blood still racing around my body. His exhaled audibly.  His stormy grey eyes were fierce on my face, and then his mouth found mine again.

 

 

3.

 

I woke up bright and early Saturday morning, my lips still felt puffy from the make out session with Tobias last night, we must have been sat in his gorgeous car for an hour kissing before he insisted on walking me to my door to make sure I got in safely. Just thinking about him got me all hot for him. Shrugging out from beneath my covers I threw myself out of bed and headed towards the bathroom to take care of business, after a quick shower and brushing my teeth I headed towards the vanity mirror to tie my hair into a neat bun and shrugged on a tight black t-shirt with my pale blue jeans slipping on my white pumps ready to meet my mom. Walking into the hallway I could smell bacon cooking. Leila’s up. ‘Hey, what time did you get back last night, you were still out when I got back?’ I asked as I came into the kitchen, I was halted in my tracks to see Leila lip locked with Mr. Impatient.. well, Richard Spears as his name was, as they heard me come into the kitchen, theypulled back from eachother Richard, leaned back onto the kitchen counter resting his palms on the counter tops studying his feet whilst Leila went bright red, ‘erm, we just got in actually, I bumped into Richard after the meal with my parents at 8 and I headed back to his place it got late so I stayed over’ she explained herself, I smiled genuinely at her and then rolled my eyes, ‘You staying in today or are you coming shopping with me and mom?’ I asked whilst leaning into the fridge to take out a cartoon of orange juice. ‘Actually, I’m going to call a rain check on shopping, me and Richard are going to catch a movie in town’ I smiled at her, ‘Let your mom know I said hi though’ Richard looked over at us, his facial expression showed that he felt awkward and embarrassed, I smiled at him hoping to put him at ease but he just looked at his feet again. ‘Want me to pick anything up for you whilst im out?’ I enquired, Leila looked as though she was in thought her perfectly shaped eyebrow arching for a brief second and then faltering, ‘No thankyou, I don’t think I need anything, but yeah thanks for the offer anyway’ She backed up towards the cooker and continued to make her bacon sandwiches. I took a glass from the cabinet poured myself the last bit of juice and went off in search of my bag. I found it hanging on my bed pole, reaching inside to collect my phone I placed my drink on the bedside table and unlocked my phone. 2 new messages. I clicked on the messaged and discovered that they were both from Tobias. Message number one stated,

‘Tonight was so much fun, I hope to see you again, sleep well T xo’

Smiling, I scrolled down to the second message,

‘Good morning beautiful, I hope you slept well, I sure as hell did- thinking of you, I hope to see you again, soon, have a good day T xo’

I sat smiling at my phone absent minded till at least 5 minutes had passed, I typed my reply quickly,

‘Morning, I slept very well thankyou, I woke up thinking of you, last night was perfect, thankyou, we should definitely do it again sometime, I hope you’re not having a bad day at work, see you around soon? C xx’

Placing my phone back into my bag, which I was leaving at home because I never had any use for it when shopping with my mom as she’d never let me pay for anything, she’d get upset and emotional if I tried to pay for things myself, she would actually make a scene about how I was making her feel impotent and not worthy too treat me, which I’d get embarrassed and give into her ludicrous behaviour. So after years and years of the same routine I’d finally gotten used to her demands and now in another routine of leaving the apartment empty handed and returning with a lot of expensive items. The doorbell rang and I headed towards it, taking my leather jacket along the way, I hadn’t applied any make up today, I hadn’t the need for it, I was only seeing my mom and going shopping. I opened the front door and was faced with my mother, she stood opposite me wearing a knee length floral dress which complimented her figure perfectly, it was turquoise with scattered white, lilac and pink flowers she wore white flats and had her blonde hair flowing in loose curls around her shoulders. Her green eyes highlighted by her silver eye shadow and pink coloured lips. Melissa Matthews was a beauty like no other, like a busty bombshell beauty from the fifties except she was only 38 but still looked as though she was in her late twenties. She was flawless. She embraced me with a tight warm hug, I smelt her perfume when she got close enough, it was strong but nice very fruity, she pulled away and held me at arm’s length to study me, ‘You get more beautiful every time I see you baby girl’ she stated, I just smiled at her, ‘Do you want to come in, or should we get going?’ I asked so not to be rude, as much as I enjoyed my mother’s company I rarely saw her so it was sometimes an awkward situation to be in with nobody around to mingle with or to create a conversation with so not to have to put too much effort into the affair. She shook her head, I knew she wouldn’t come in, she never did, but I was over that now, so we headed down to her car as she always insisted on driving herself to places, even though she is rich because my father gave her some money for the divorce and because she inherited a lot from her own father she never wanted a chauffeur, she preferred not to rely upon anybody else. We headed into Birmingham city centre to shop the day away.

 

After countless hours of shopping, I arrived back at my apartment with four boxes of shoes and six bags full of clothes. The apartment was silent, it was a little after three in the afternoon so Leila was probably still out with Richard. I savoured the time alone to dump the new items on my bedroom floor by the closets, I was hot and sticky from the shopping trip, it was late June and the weather was getting so much warmer, it was nice but it was a lot to keep on top of, turning the shower on, I walked back into the bedroom to check my phone, 2 messages, unlocking my phone I seen that one message was from Leila and the other from Tobias. I selected Leila’s message first,

‘Hey hun, won’t be back this evening so don’t wait up, I’m going back to Richards after this movie, The purge 2, looked pretty decent in the trailers, catch you around though, have fun, but not too much xox’

 

‘Ooh tell me if it’s good or not, you and this Richard guy seem sorta serious, are you dating him? You never get attached to a guy, have fun though, see you tomorrow or something C xx’

I scrolled down to my next unread message from Tobias,

I’m glad to hear that last night was perfect for you, it was for me too, and unfortunately work seems very dull and boring in comparison to where I’d rather be, which is with you, I know it seems strange but just thinking about you puts me in a happier place, even after only seeing you twice, do you want to meet up tonight? T xo’

Grinning at my phone I felt a fluttering in the pool of my stomach, butterflies, I had butterflies, I never felt this giddy over a guy since, well, I never have, this is a new feeling for me, usually I just chat with a guy and one thing leads to another but this is different, I actually like liking him and enjoy seeing him- not just because of his irresistible god like features but just because him. Mmm, I typed my response as quick as I could remembering that I had left my shower running and waiting for me.

‘I’d rather be with you too, so much warmer, well I’m heading for a shower now so tonight sounds great, where do you want to meet up? C xx’

I had barely reached the shower when I heard my phone signal a text, I’d check it after my shower. I showered for 35 minutes thinking about Tobias’ touch and how it would feel to be held by him, I washed slowly and used my new strawberry and cream shower gel and strawberry shampoo and conditioner set. Mmm strawberries, I spent the next 5 minutes drying my hair in front of the vanity mirror, once I was done I shrugged on my white silk thigh length dressing gown collected my phone and headed off to the kitchen to get some strawberries and white wine, unlocking my phone along the way to see who the message was from- my heart stopped, and then fluttered back to life,

‘I’ll meet you at yours I’ll be there in 45 minutes, can’t wait to see you, T xo’

I felt excited, giddy and nervous at the same time, I had five minutes before he turned up peering down at myself I was suddenly aware that if I didn’t get changed fast he was going to be greeted by a half- naked female only wearing a dressing gown. I turned on my heel as quick as I could leaving the opened bottle of wine and strawberries on the countertop, pacing into the bedroom I opened my underwear drawer pulled out a lacey pair of white panties and slid them into place followed by some nude stockings, I was about to go into my closet get a dress when the doorbell rang ‘Shit’ I muttered to myself, I kicked the bags under my bed and shut the door, pulling my robe into place and pacing towards the front door I gathered my bearings and opened the door, His breathing hitched audibly and the bouquet of roses fell to his side as his eyes soaked me in, I ushered him inside whilst my cheeks reddened, I could feel them heating up beneath my skin, my nipples hardening just from the sight of him. ‘Excuse my appearance, I read your text just as I got out the shower, I-’ his mouth dropped open, he closed it again and then it reopened, it was as though he was mimicking a goldfish, I blushed once more shutting the door as he stepped around it, I now had my back pressed against the door whilst his eyes were following me, tracing my entire body from head to toe, ‘I don’t mean to sound rude but, shit you look incredible, divine actually, words can’t even’ I didn’t know whether to feel embarrassed or grateful for the compliment. I gestured towards the kitchen, he followed me, I stood behind the countertops and offered him a seat at the breakfast bar, he glanced at his hands, looked momentarily surprised, cleared his throat and then said ‘Erm, these are for you, I don’t know if you have a vase or not but yeah, yours’ he laughed at himself holding the roses out for me ‘I’m not usually this lost for words but you’re quite the distraction’ I licked my lips and my thoughts agreed with him but with him being the distraction, his hair all wild around his face, wearing light blue jeans with a white shirt tucked into them undone at the top button, I just wanted to peel that shirt off him- ‘Yeah I have a vase, I’ll fetch it, thankyou’ I was about to bend down into the cupboard but then I remembered the lack of clothing and the piercing grey eyes that would surely be watching me, so I bent down to collect the vase, filled it with water and then swiftly walked over to him to put the roses inside. I then put the vase in the centre of the breakfast bar. Walking around to sit next to him on a stool I offered him a glass of wine, he managed a nod with his grey eyes deep in concentration, I then offered him some strawberries. We sat there eating strawberries staring at each other, I was very aware of my aching breast beneath the very thin soft silk fabric, the thinnest barrier between myself and Tobias, it was so hard to keep my self-restraint but I wasn’t going to throw myself at him. We reached for a strawberry at the same time, that electric charge sending my body over the edge, my self restraint gone I stood before him and dropped my robe, his gasp was so loud, my breasts had swelled and my nipples had elongated and hardened for him, I stepped an inch closer to cup his face, I kissed him once, twice and the third time he was with me matching my lips, he pulled me closely holding my bare back against his fully clothed body, ‘I. Felt.. It… too’ he managed between the kissed. The electric charge I thought. Oh, I melted into him, kissing him, savouring him, suddenly I felt his fingers fondling my panties, hooking them with his thumbs, pulling them down, I parted my legs so that he could move them faster, although I was still aware he was fully clothed, he carried me over to the sofa, leaving my panties and robe in a pile on the kitchen floor he spread me across the sofa, panting from the kiss I watched him undress himself, kicking off his shoes as he undone his shirt and shrugged out of it, I sat up the undo his trousers, he yanked them down with a quick thrust. Lowering his neck Tobias pressed his mouth into the crook of my neck arching for him he kissed me once, twice, then sucked my neck, biting and kissing, I was lost in him, he began trailing my body with his hands cupping my breasts, circling my nipples with his thumbs, he smiled at me and swooped down to suck my nipples, ‘ahh’ throwing my head back to relish the sensation, with each suck I felt a throb between my legs, I unhooked my leg from beneath him, and wrapped my legs around his waist, urging his body towards mine, I felt the barrier of the cotton from his boxer briefs, his hard length straining against them, I reached down the best as I could to free him, and as soon as the boxers were gone I began pumping him with my fist, Once, twice, from root to tip, over and over, I felt his pleasure as he sucked harder on my nipples, I wanted him to take me, I wrapped my legs around his waist and urged his length towards the entrance to my sex, I felt the heat of his body, he was trying his hardest to hold back, but his hips were rocking shamelessly rubbing himself against me, I wanted him to thrust deep inside, I pulled his head up to mie, his face looked pained but I could see that it was because he wanted this, so bad, ‘It’s okay I’m on birth control’ his eyes lit up like fireworks and with that he buried his face in my neck and slowly pushed his hard thick length inside me, the tip filled me instantly stretching me, pleasure radiating through my body, the sensation almost too much but it didn’t stop his length penetrated me further, filling me, taking me, he buried himself into me completely stretching me completely, the pleasure felt too good, when he began to pull out the sensation continued to build radiating through my body over and over, penetrating and retracting it was too much I struggled to keep up with him, trying desperately to match his thrusts but the pleasure was too much, it was paralysing me, I couldn’t move, it was overwhelmingly good, my body began to quiver, our breathing began to increase and rapidly got deeper and faster with ever movement, building and building until our bodies had to let go, we released at the same time, ‘Tobias, oh god, Tob-‘ I called out as he bit into my neck, milking each other until it was over we lay there trying to recover, it lasted a little while, still joined, lying in our sweaty mess, breathing slow and deep, enjoying the after math of our powerful explosion, I’d never had a better orgasm in my entire life.

 

We lay there for what seemed like hours, he hadn’t completely softened when he pulled out, he picked up his shirt off the floor, I thought he was going to leave and was momentarily confused and embarrassed when he came towards me to clean me up with his shirt, ‘Sorry, I made such a mess, but you still look so divine, I just want to kiss you all over, make you mine.. That sounds absurd doesn’t it’ he admonished himself, I grinned up at him, what a spectacular male. I sat up and hugged him. I didn’t even know that I was going to until I did it. ‘What was that for?’ he said smiling as I pulled away, ‘I don’t know I just wanted to hold you’ I said, we stood there before one another, naked completely maintaining eye contact, even though he’d just climaxed, his length had hardened again and I could feel it against my stomach, I grinned and peeped down, it was massive it was so long and thick, I was shocked, how did that fit, wow. I looked back up, he was sporting a boyish grin, clearly impressed at himself, I bit my lip and walked backwards towards the kitchen, he followed me, and suddenly I felt like I had all the confidence in the world, knowing he was watching I spread my legs and bet down to retrieve my panties and robe, I arched my back to give a more ‘fuck me’ look, I place one hand on the countertop, I hope he takes the bait. Just as my finger tips touched the robe I felt his hands on my body trailing over my back and behind, I rocked my hips from side to side, then I felt him rubbing his length against my sex up and down, up and down, ‘you like to tease me’ he suggested in a hot hoarse voice that instantly turned me on, ‘ my lips parted as I sucked for air, ‘Yes’ I stated matter of factly, panting for him, I’d just have a powerful orgasm and now my body wanted more, too greedy. ‘Do you want me Charlotte?’ My breathing hitched and a pool of pleasure and butterflies gathered in the pit of my stomach, Yes, yes Tobias, I do, Take me… Please’ I begged him, obviously, he didn’t need to be asked twice, ‘Grip the countertop with both hands’ he told me, the second I did he slammed into me ‘Ohh’ I cried out, the pleasure overwhelming I could feel the build-up already, this time I could arch my back and thrust my hips to meet his thrusts, over and over, moaning with every movement, I was climbing higher and higher, my hips rocking until I could no longer take it, ‘Tobias!’ I shouted as I released, he pumped again and again, ‘Mine!’ he exclaimed with a final thrust as he poured himself into me, kissing my back softly he slowly pulled out of me, this time he softened, he collected my panties go onto his kneed and cleaned me up before settling me onto a stool, ‘Mmm’ I murmured too tired and dazed to say anything else. He offered a boyish smile and pushed my glass of wine towards me, I took a few sluggish sips, the liquid soaked my tongue it was just what I needed to sort out my dry mouth. Popping a strawberry into his mouth, he turned to face me, ‘You okay?’ he asked sincerely, I nodded and the grinned, ‘you?’ I asked hoarsely, he chuckled, ‘I’m fantastic- you were fantastic!’ he proclaimed, that made me feel good, I offered a grin back. I knew exactly how I looked right now, messy wild hair, glassy eyes and puffy red lips and cheeks, probably the exact same appearance he was sporting except he rocked the ‘just fucked’ look better. ‘I should probably get dressed’ I managed with a slight croak in my voice, I was very much sated from those two orgasms. My gaze was locked with his the second I peered up beneath my eyelashes, I’d only seen this glorious man three times and we’d already had amazing sex twice, I was unable to look away, unashamed that I had just had sex with somebody I had just met, locked into the stormy grey eyes that resembled fierce masculine triumph, I wanted him to be mine. It was apparent I was supposed to be his too, Mine, they were the words he had shouted when he climaxed. Cupping his face, I gathered all my energy to pull myself closer to him, closing the proximity, I brushed my lips across his, he wrapped his arms around me, crushing me into him, skin on skin, his skin so hot, like an open flame. He brushed the damp tendrils of hair away from my temples and placed them behind my ears, he studied my face as he did so watching my expression, reading me. I soaked him in too, enjoying the way he looked, he was mesmerizingly beautiful. His long hair matted to his scalp and face, reaching up I put my hands through his hair, pushing it all away from his face, like the way he had it gelled back the night before. ‘We should be a couple, or at least we should start dating, I know we have only just met but after this- I, I wanted you from the moment I laid my eyes upon you at that curb, but now, now I have to have you’ my breath hitched and my blood was pumping so hard it was drumming in my ears, ‘like, a relationship?’ I asked, feeling like an idiot the second I said it, He smiled down at me, ‘Yes, that’s what Im talking about Charlotte, what do you think?’ he looked genuinely worried about my response, my heart fluttered for him, did I want this? Yes, yes I do. Look at him so irresistible and so charming, he’s perfect and I’ve wanted him since I saw him too, there’s no denying that. ‘Definitely yes, I sound way too eager, but yes, Im up for trying that, I’d say let’s take things slow but I guess there’s no point in saying that’ I gestured between us, we both laughed and he pulled me into a tighter embrace resting my head beneath his chin I tightened my hold on him. ‘I really should put some clothes on though, Leila isn’t coming home tonight but I couldn’t possibly stay naked all evening, ‘Why not?’ Toby stated jokingly, I rolled my eyes at him and he lightly swatted my behind I giggles girlishly at him. Taking his hand and picking up all the clothes along the way I lead Tobias to the en suite bathroom in my bedroom, dumping the clothes into the wash basket and switching the shower on as I passed it I told Tobias that he could take a quick shower whilst I take the basket into the laundry room and have his clothes washed. He kissed my cheek and stepped under the spray, still naked, I loaded the washing machine with the items of clothing and headed back to the shower peeked in to see him smelling my strawberry shower gel, I giggled and went off in search of something less feminine. I came back with dove original and let him use that along with apple scented shampoo and conditioner, he dried himself off whilst I had a quick scrub down. Stepping out from under the spray, Toby’s eyes followed my wet glistening body whilst I reached up to push my hair out of my face. He purred, and stalked towards me, I grinned and gave myself to him, enveloping myself in his body.

 

 

4

I awoke Sunday morning achy and sore. I grinned at the delicious memories of the day before. Tobias had left at around half ten because he had a business trip to Seattle today at noon so he needed plenty of sleep and being here with me would mean that he wouldn’t get that, again I grinned at the thought. I was going to take my book back to the library today as the library was open till 8 tonight which I considered was quite late for a Sunday. . Plenty of time to get dressed, take my back and find a new one I began getting out of bed to begin the day ahead.   It was a cloudless day as I headed through Birmingham town centre towards the public library, the air was crisp and warm without a breeze.  The smell of vehicle exhaust mixed with food from nearby outlets- bars, restaurants and doughnut stands was amazing, I loved Birmingham but London was my dream, and I hoped one day soon I would be walking through London town centre absorbing my environment with my senses, I’m sure it would be fantastic. I was too busy looking at the way the small trees outside the library in centenary square stood still, the leaves motionless from the lack of breeze and how the light poured through them that I didn’t notice the bell ringing on the bicycle behind me, I looked behind me just in time to dodge the red faced male as he swerved past me ‘Stupid bitch!’ he yelled as he continued past me, I watched him wide eyed with astonishment at his rudeness, but I suppose that’s Birmingham for you. Tucking my black tendrils behind my pale ears and clutching the handle of my bag closely under my shoulder I continued into the library. It was magnificent. Largely built, full of books and because it had recently been refurbished it was very elegant and modern. The smell of books, rich paper and cardboard filled the air. The rich smells intoxicating and enticing, this is what I loved about the library the most, it isn’t like ordinary libraries where they smell dusty from old carpets and cushions as well as the dust gathering on the shelves from the lack of use, with old shabby computers with Microsoft 98 in the back. No this was much better, luxurious open spaces, modern computers and technology better seating, even though this was less homely it smelt and looked so much healthier in its surroundings that it was a more comfortable place to be. I enjoyed my time here more than anywhere else. There was a constant hum in the air from the multiple conversations between the steady flow of book lovers and students in the library. I headed towards the main desk to return my book, the same librarian, Ms Fryer as her name tag highlights is sitting in her usual place at the far end of the crescent shaped desk sorting through a pile of books, with her half-moon glasses tucked neatly onto her nose, her bobbed brown hair neat around her head, brunette with a few grey streaks and bright red lipstick she barely looked up as I approached, I stood patiently at the desk knowing that she’ll pull herself away from her task shortly to deal with me. I looked at the clock, 11:45 I wondered if Leila had gotten back yet. We had so much to talk about now, Tobias, the holiday thing she was trying to discuss and this Richard guy that she had been seeing. Very odd for her. Pushing all my thoguhts to the back of my head as Ms. Fryer approached me, ‘Can I help you dear’ I smiled up at her and placed my book on the counter top, ‘Just returning this, I took it out on Monday and I was wondering if I could take another one out today?’ Ms Fryer nodded pulling the book closer and squinting through her glasses, she opened the cover stamped the first page and put it on the pile behind her, ‘Yes, taking another book out will be fine dear, thank you for bringing this one back, just remember to log the book out before you take it..’ I nodded at her so to agree without speaking, smiling warmly at me she wished me a good day and headed back off to her task. Heading towards the escalators I rode up to the top floor looking through the aisles of books, science fiction, horror, thriller, mystery, romance I didn’t know what I was looking for, picking one book up after another, reading the blurb, putting it back down. Sigh, this was a daunting task, I loved my books, but finding one that enticed me was difficult. Especially as I enjoyed multiple genres. I headed down the Horror/mystery aisle, picking up the furthest book I began to read the blurb, ‘Grace Alban has spent twenty years away from her childhood home, the stately Alban House, for reasons she would rather forget. But when her mother's unexpected death brings Grace and her teen-age daughter home, she finds more haunting the halls and passageways of Alban House than her own personal demons’   Sounds good I thought, I haven’t read a ‘scary book’ in a while, and I don’t have much to do, so why not, looking at the front cover it was called The Fate of Mercy Alban by Wendy Webb, didn’t look like much just a house covered in ivy. I headed back down the main stairwell deciding I needed a bit of exercise and using the escalator was probably very lazy. Ms Fryer was no longer at her desk, some young blonde girls with too much makeup piled onto her face peered at me as I approached the desk rolling my eyes towards the floor I placed the book on the desk, ‘I’m taking this one out- just need you to log it out, please’ Jess as her name tag implied with a hand drawn tongue face, stared at me holding her hand out for me to place the book into her hands, sighing I placed it firmly into her grip, she walked away towards the computer to file the serial number and date. How rude of her I thought.  After a brief ten minutes of drumming my finger nails on the wooden counter top watching the flow of pedestrians flow around me, Jess returned my book without uttering a single word- so much for good customer service I thought. Shoving the book into my bag as I paced out of the library I thought about what to do with the rest of my day. Perhaps I’ll just head home, read or watch a DVD. I decided to head home, see if Leila had returned or not- plus I wanted to check my phone as id left it at home on charge, I wonder if Tobias had a good flight out. It was 2:30 by the time I got home, I spotted Leila on the sofa in her silk cream PJ’s with wet hair, so she must have been fresh out of a shower. Leila always insisted that a Sunday is a pyjama day. Sometimes I had to agree, Sunday is the one day of the week where we get to be lazy, ‘Hey Leila’ I greeted her stalking towards the kitchen setting my bag on the hallway floor on my way, ‘What time did you get back this morning?’ I asked, I heard her switch the television off and walk into the kitchen, ‘About 10ish, I figured you’d be at the library, never known anybody read so much in my entire life’ she stated with a hint of humour in her tone, ‘So what did you guys get up to ?’ I asked rummaging through the fridge looking for something light to snack on, ‘Oh, just this and that, watched that movie, it was alright to be fair, he seemed a bit bored, we went back to his place, had a lot of sex, he has so much stamina, its unreal, I can barely keep up with him and im a sex crazed maniac so that’s saying something..’ looking up at me she smirked, then gestured towards herself ‘..Im just so worn out, I could sleep all day, so how did your shopping trip go with your mom yesterday?’ I rubbed my forehead slightly and pulled away from the fridge with a peach yoghurt, ‘Oh it was alright came back with more things than I needed, shoes clothes, you know the deal’, she nodded almost sympathetically as she settled on the barstool and then looked up at me cocking an eyebrow, ‘who are these from?’ pointing at the roses, flushing I turned to the cutlery draw to fish out a spoon, ‘erm, Tobias he’s a guy I met Wednesday night, I’m sort of seeing him now, we had dinner Friday night and then he came over yesterday- we er, yeah we spent a lot of time together it was nice, he’s nice, lovely actually’ I replied with my back still turned shrugging at the end of my sentence so not to seem to eager, after the silence that followed I turned to face her, with my cheeks still burning red her mouth was gaped out and she was staring at me with astonishment which quickly turned into a grin, she jumped up ran around the breakfast bar and hugged me, ‘oh get you aye, we both found somebody just as we finished college, lucky us aye!’ oh I guess her and Richard were getting serious then, bless her, she never really like anyone enough to see regularly so I guess im really happy for her. She pulled away and sported a girlish grin, ‘so, have you guys done the deed yet, I can’t wait to meet him, what is he like?’ I shook my head sarcastically at her whilst rolling my eyes, ‘What are you like’ I said sarcastically waling off to the balcony we sat down and I could see in the corner of my eye that she was very eager to get this information out of me, I sighed, giving in ‘Well, he’s very handsome, he’s bold, masculine, stubbly, I guess he’s tall, dark and lean, his hair is a dark brown, quite long and it falls so gorgeously around his face- very muscly, Grey eyes, he is just insanely gorgeous, the type you only see in movies, and he’s mine well I guess he is’ I shrugged, taking another spoonful of yoghurt and swallowing, ‘Yes, we have had sex, mind-blowing sex actually, his stamina is unreal he can go at it for hour, climaxing at every turn, I’ve never known anything like it..’ looking up at her with widened eyes to exaggerate my point, ‘.. he’s twenty four and he’s in marketing.’ I finished holding my hands up to resign from sharing anything else, not that I have much else to share. ‘Wow’ she muttered, she fanned herself jokingly, ‘I definitely have to meet him then, he sounds totally made up’ she laughed and nudged my shoulder, I grinned at her. Talking about Toby reminded me that I needed to check my messages. ‘Be right back’ I stated and headed off towards my bedroom, tossing my yoghurt into the trash bin along the way, closing my bedroom door I walked over to my bed and unplugged my phone from the wall.  2 new messages. One was from Toby and the other from my mom. ‘Hey gorgeous, hope you slept well, missing you already, can’t wait to see you again, I want to take you out for a meal Monday evening, 8:00, I’ll pick you up at your place, see you soon, T xo’ I sent a quick message back wishing him good look on his business trip and that Monday night would be perfect. Opening the message from my mom, my heart stopped and panic flooded through my veins, ‘Hey babygirl, why didn’t you tell me you were seeing Tobias Reed? It’s in the Ok! Magazine babygirl, and article on him and a mystery girl at bodega bar, you look beautiful in the pictures hunny but why didn’t you say something? Xx’ My heart kick started into action and the taste of blood filled my mouth, why would OK! Magazine want to make an article of Tobias, he’s only a marketing director, he isn’t like some millionaire or celebrity, is he? I began to panic, gathering my beairngs the best I could I told my self that I was panicking for no good reason. ‘Hi mom, I’ve met him like three times, we really like eachother and we’ve hit it off, what do you mean there’s an article in the Ok! Mag? Why is he so important? X’ Putting my phone on my bed, I ran my fingers through my inky black hair, marketing directors aren’t that big of a deal are they? Perhaps he just has a super-rich family- I don’t know, I’ll have to wait and see what my mom says. No, I can’t wait for that. I headed towards my desk and fired up my laptop which up until recently was only used for assignment criteria for college work. Opening up google I typed into the search bar ‘Tobias Reed’ My heart lurched to a stop as soon as I pressed enter.

5.

Looking through the endless lists of photos and articles and Tobias, his family and a woman, Fiona Stratbern- Stratbern industries I thought to myself, she was evidently beautiful with thick red curly hair and bright emerald eyes, she had a sprinkling of freckles around her cheeks and a tight button nose. I envied her instantly, even though she was just a family friend these pictured showed a light to her that I made me feel sick to the stomach, his hand draped tightly around her waist her leaning into him and smiling warmly at one another. Continuing to scroll down the articles I felt panic boil in my blood. Oh no, no, no. My legs turned to jelly, I sank deeper into the desk chair. I had made a vow to myself to never date a guy who was rich, successful yes, but stinking rich no. I see how money can possess a man, after all my dad Robert James being #7 richest man in the UK with a net worth of 4.9 billion I know first-hand how controlling and needy these guys are, how they have no time to deal with relationships or even their children for that matter. So I never wanted to date a guy who according to these articles was #12 richest guy in the UK with a net worth of 3.4 billion due to his successes at stratbern industries and inheritance. Just no. Tobias looked so genuine and care free, how wrong was I, I’ve only just met him, I know nothing about him and I’ve already bedded the guy. What does that make me? He probably just thinks im another gold-digger- well, if he is this rich he should know I have a lot of inheritance from my father so I don’t need money. What am I going to do? Im seeing him tomorrow at 8, I really like him though, the Tobias I’ve met and the Tobias on the internet seem like two completely different guys. Oh im so confused, bile began to rise in my mouth. Closing the laptop down, I paced into the bathroom to brush my teeth. Swilling my mouth with Listerine I glared at my reflection, I was definitely naïve and young, didn’t even bother to get to know a guy. I guess it just reflects my age doesn’t it. Turning the taps off and tossing the hand towel into the wash basket I walked back towards to living area, Leila was flicking through the music channels with a bottle of Kopparberg in her hands rocking her hips to the different sounds that barely made it through the speakers before she flicked onto the next channel. She settled for UK hits of the 80’s. Turning the volume up to 90% I was relieved for the sound proofed walls or else we would definitely receive complaints. Joys of both of us having rich parents.    ‘I thought, seeing as were both in some sort of relationship, it wouldn’t be morally right to go out clubbing without our men, you know man hunting and all that, we should have a dance and drink up here in our apartment, I already invited Steph and Caleb they’ll be here soon, they’re bringing some more booze, Steph’s bringing her roommate ebony..’ she took a swig from the bottle in her hand ‘.. a whole bunch of people are coming so I guess we’re having a house party, so get your glad rags on, ill fix up some snacks-..’ she turned to face me and frowned, ‘.. Lottie Hun what’s up?’ placing her drink on the coffee table she walked over to me, I shrugged ‘Nothing much, we’ll talk later or something, I best get ready, you just going to wear those shorts?’ I quickly tried to change the conversation from my dire state, she nodded at me seemingly unimpressed and very aware of my poor tactics, pulling on my poker face I grinned at her and bounced back to my room, once I closed the door I sagged against it. I was so not up for socializing.  The rest of the evening passed by as a blur, drinking, laughing, eating, drinking, people being sick, me cleaning up and then the last of the guests left at around 3am. Locking the door, I turned to face Leila who was a drunken mess in the corner of the room laughing to a kit Kat wrapper that hadn’t been scrunched tightly and was therefore unfolding itself- she was easily amused to say the least. I hadn’t drank too much plus I had a pint of water at around 1 and began tidying around people so I was very much sober. ‘Come on’ I muttered, ‘Let’s get you to bed, the floor looks really uncomfortable’ she put her arms up to me like a toddler waiting to be lifted into their parent’s eyes. I rolled my eyes and pulled her up to my height, wrapping my arm around her back I hauled her the best I could down the hall to the room on the left, her room was slightly smaller than mine as I had a walk in closet and she didn’t although we both had the luxury of an en-suite bathroom so no sharing although there was a main toilet at the right of the hallway next to a small guest room. Tucking her into bed after removing her converse and belt I switched off her bedside lamp and went to retrieve a glass of water to put by her bed along with a bucket in case she couldn’t make it to the toilet to be sick. Once ensuring she was sleeping fine I headed off to my bedroom, the house was in a liveable state aside from a few cans by the sofa but I could deal with those tomorrow, I was very tired and needed some sleep. After all, I was seeing Tobias tomorrow and who knows what else Monday will have in store for me. Plugging my phone into the charger on the wall, I unlocked it to read the three notifications on my notification bar. 1 missed call, 1 message and 1 facebook notification. A friend request from an Ivy May Reed, I left it because I wasn’t sure who she was although I think I recall seeing her name on one of the articles with Tobias at a fundraiser for children in need, his sister, I think. The miscall was from my mother and so was the text message. I clicked on the message to see what she wanted to express so urgently, and then I remembered that I’d asked her about why Tobias was in the OK! Magazine. ‘Oh darling, I don’t know why you don’t read these gossip magazines, it’s where you get all the juicy information! Tobias comes from a very wealthy family, they own a number of businesses from catering, telecoms, business, finance and marketing from the UK through the US and France. He is the odd child out though, he doesn’t seem to live off of his parents like his brother and sister, he does things for himself, he worked as a secretary for a year or so, but he is in magazines because of his family and wealth dear, he is somewhat of a celebrity, you’d know these things if you picked up a magazine once in a while. We will have to have a catch up some time. Love you baby girl, Mom xx’   Eugh, I sighed to myself that was the longest text in the history of texts. I typed a reply quickly so that I could go to bed and get some shut eye, I had a lot of thinking to do before tomorrow evening, I needed all the sleep I can get.  ‘Yeah mom, I looked him up on google, wealthy is an understatement, we’ll meet up soon, speak soon, love you too C xx’ Placing the phone on top of the bedtime table I shrugged out of my clothes, left them in a pile on the floor. Crawling into bed, I’d have to sleep in my underwear for tonight as I was too tired to dig out some pyjamas. Flicking off the bedside lamp I closed my eyes and drifted into the deepest darkest sleep.  Monday passed by in a haze, Leila had left to go and buy some clothes for her new job as the start date had been brought forward to next Monday, leaving her a week of freedom until she’d have to up and leave to Oxford, leaving me here in Birmingham all by myself. I had cleaned the apartment at least three times, anxiously busying myself so not to preoccupy my thoughts with Tobias and his hefty bank account. I even phoned my dad which is something I did once a month because the conversations were so brief and pointless that it’d be much better to just send a text. We briefly discussed my college results, he told me that business was steady and that if I couldn’t find work I could go and work for him at him James enterprises in Devon, to which I thanked for the offer but firmly declined explaining London was where I wanted t be. As much as I loved the ocean, I want the coast and seaside to be a holiday destination, a getaway zone not a place of work. It was 7:10 and my phone had been silent all day, no reply from mom, not that I expected one, she got bored quickly with conversations, I hadn’t had a message from Tobias either, so I didn’t know whether we were still on for tonight, whether he has gotten home safely or not. I was anxious about this evening. My cream knee length strappy dress hung neatly on my bedroom door with my cream strappy heels to match below them I had pinned my hair up into a tight bun, and was painting my nails and sipping wine to pass the time. I was wearing my cream thin lace lined briefs and matching strapless bra with my nude stockings. Sitting in my bedroom blowing my nails hoping they would dry quicker so that I could pull my dress on. I wanted to look simple but elegant so that I would fit in no matter the surrounding. My makeup was light, peach lip gloss cream eye shadow with a hint of silver and bold eye liner and mascara to make my eyes stand out more. I wore a simple pair of silver diamond stud earrings. I was pulling my dress over my my body when my phone signalled a phone call, hurrying the dress down my body I rushed over to my phone. It was Tobias. I quickly accepted the call, ‘Tobias, Hi’ I quickly spoke, greeting him. ‘Ahh, Charlotte, it’s wonderful to hear your voice, I have missed you a lot’ His tone was so warm and welcoming, my heart melted for him instantly,  ‘Me too. We still on for tonight?’ I asked, nervous if he’d say yes or no. ‘Definitely’ he exclaimed, he sounded excited, I couldn’t help but to smile for him. ‘Sounds good, well im almost ready, so ill see you soon?’ I felt him smile on the opposite end, Sure, im parked outside, I’ll come up in 10 minutes to collect you, see you soon, bye’ He hung up, I held the phone for a couple seconds longer, straightening out my dress I pulled on my strappy heels, placed my phone and purse into my small clutch bag along with some eye liner mascara and lip gloss and headed towards the door. Just as I reached the handle the doorbell rang. Pulling open the door I soaked him in with my eyes. Stood before me was the most breath taking male, I stepped back slightly because of my overwhelming feeling to run my fingers through his tangle of hair. His tie was turquoise blue and his shirt jet black, as he stood there with his grey jacket open and his hands hoved casually into his trouser pockets, the sight of him made me want to devour him, relish him with my body- but I had to control myself, he was trouble, rich men always were, they had a lot of baggage and in most cases it was their hefty bank accounts. He was dangerous, he was enticingly beautiful but he was powerful, smart and rich- what do I have to offer him? I can’t make him richer, im not profitable and rich businessman only look for profit. I don’t want to get too involved and get left broken and alone, im only young, almost 20. My attention returned to the strikingly beautiful man afore me, he was smiling at me, the ends of his hair drifting over his collar, he hadn’t gelled it back although it looked quite damp. Anyone this good looking was definitely dangerous. His eyes were following my body, studying the curve of my hips and the fullness of my breasts, we studied each other until our eyes locked, shamelessly staring at each other. ‘So, shall we head out now because another second longer standing here looking at you and I don’t think we’ll make it pass this door frame’ he knocked the solid white oak wood door frame as if to emphasize my point, my cheeks flushed and my thighs clenched, I nodded my head and took his hand as we headed out of my apartment. Walking beside him my hands clenched with the urge to thrust myself at him and run my fingers through his hair, to possess his mouth and let him possess my body, fighting these urges became more difficult with every stride, stopping before the lift I risked a glace into his stormy grey eyes that were full of self-control, something I hadn’t seen before. But then, I didn’t know a lot about him before. Turning my gaze to his soft plush lips, my breath caught. He was biting them. As the lift came to a halt on the fifth floor we hustled inside, as soon as the doors were closed he was pinning me to the walls of the lift, thrusting his mouth upon mine he kissed me ferociously one hand sweeping behind my neck to grip it tightly so that he could angle my head to comfortably possess my mouth further I submitted myself unto him, he parted my legs with his knee his free hand sweeping down my back around to my breast gently squeezing on them, circling where my nipples would be, moaning into his mouth I arched my back, his tongue massaging mine, his hand continued its assault down my body, lifting the hem of my dress he moved inwards towards my thigh, continuing upwards until he found my sex, he began rubbing me gently over the soft fabric of my panties, the feeling was exquisite but it ended all too soon, he pulled away and neatened the fabric of my dress using his other hand to wipe the saliva from the outskirts of my lips he pressed a kiss to my forehead. Taking my hand just as the lift signalled our arrival to the ground floor, my breathing returned to a normal pace, he seemed as disorientated as me. Leading me through the stream of people idly wandering around the foyer of the apartment building we exited the main double doors at the front. Once outside he squeezed my hand tightly, ‘Where are we going?’ I asked as we continued to walk quickly up the street, turning a corner I recognised the white Audi R8 parked on the curb. ‘It’s a surprise!’ he murmured, he seemed anxious, I wondered why but I stayed quiet.  We drove in silence, we headed out of the main city streets, into a more residential setting until driving into the blissful countryside. We sat in silence for around 45 minutes or so. There’s a nice meadow at the bottom of this road, I prepared a meal to be cooked on site, when we get there the chef will leave and we will be alone, I realise we hardly know each other and there’s a lot I need to talk to you about..’ he momentarily glanced in my direction trying to study my face, I glanced at him nodding, he looked bewildered and anxious, my heart leapt for him. He returned his gaze to the road, ‘besides, it would be a real nice place to eat for a second date, we can talk, relax have fun and spend some time under the stars before rushing back to our lives in the city.’ I admired that, as much as the city offered trees and small bouquets of flowers in hanging baskets it just wasn’t the same as the wildlife that the country offered. I offered a warm smile and continued to gaze out of my passenger side window. I felt his gaze slide over my profile, studying me. The tension in him was rippling throughout the vehicle, radiating through me.  I began thinking about his wealth, his family- I had no place in his life, look at him so sexy and irresistible, where could I possibly fit in. I sucked in a deep breath, trying to ignore my thoughts, as I inhaled the deep breath I could smell his aftershave, it was simply divine and I was so aware that he was there, right there, next to me, this glorious man, sat right next to me, in the middle of nowhere. He is taking me out for a second date and here I am juggling ludicrous thoughts that have no place being in my head right now. My thoughts ran away from me, I was instantly aware of my arousal for him, fantasizing about how his divine body would feel, to run my fingers through his chest hair, how his rough well sculpted body would feel against mine, again. He interrupted my thoughts by turning down an old country lane, the sun was setting creating a beautiful orange blanket across the sky. Illuminating the wide open field in the most beautiful way. The car came to a halt. Directly opposite us was a large bench, situatuted in the well cut grass with scattered flowers, the scenery was perfect. He was perfect. He climbed out of the car, I went to follow suit until he tapped on the bonnet to regain my attention pointing his finger at me with a sturn smirky look fixated upon his face, I instantly giggled, so care free and girly. He opened my door and held out his hand, ‘My lady,’ he said with laughter dancing in his eyes, I shook my head and climbed out of the car holding his hand for support, I stumbled forward because my shoe got caught in the grass, I fell into his arms and he caught me. His hand rested on the small of my back, looking up into his eyes, ‘Thankyou’ I whispered feeling embarrassed and overwhelmed by the eyes staring down at me with worry and concern written all over them. I wanted to loose myself in his eyes. ‘You okay?’ he asked, concern laced in his tone. I shook off the small scale heart attack, ‘Yeah, I’m fine my foot got caught in the grass, Im fine though, thankyou’ I smiled warm heartedly at him, he studied me with his eyes before nodding settling me backwards. He hooked his arm behind my waist and led me towards the bench, no doubt so that I wouldn’t trip and fall on my face. Thank god. He made sure I sat down properly on my side of the bench before walking to his side, we looked so out of place sitting on a park style bench in smart clothing. ‘it’s beautiful out here’ I said looking past the bench far into the distance I could see some horses, galloping freely across the far side of the field. ‘It is isn’t it?’ he agreed pulling our plates into view and placing our cutlery on top, ‘Wine?’ he offered, showing me a bottle pf Veuve Cliequot Ponsardin, he must have remembered that I’d like it from last time, or at least it might be one of his personal favourites. ‘Yes please’ he poured us both a glass, the foam spilling over the tops in the most beautiful way, he smirked at me when he had finished making a mess of himself, I smiled towards him, and took my glass, I took a sip and savoured the fruity full bodied taste. It was delicious. Setting it down I leant onto my elbows and rested my face in my hands, admiring him, ‘What made you want to come out here?’ I asked with genuine interest. He was half way through unpacking our meal out of a small heater bag beneath his seat when he looked up at me, ‘Oh, I came here as a kid when the weather was nice, my family were hardly ever in the same room together so it was a nice getaway for a day out with everyone, mom and dad were usually off on business trips and myself and my brother Matthew and sister Ivy were under the care of our Nanny, we had long hours of tuition after school so we rarely had time to miss our parents, I had fond memories here, so I thought I’d created some with you.’ He continued unpacking the bag after he’d finished his explanation, ‘that sounds wonderful, It’s so peaceful out here I can only imagine how mesmerizing it would have been as a young child running through the long grass... Do you need some help with that?’ I offered, he put his hand out and shook his head as if to say he doesn’t need any help. After he hate he stacked our plates, ‘Don’t worry about these’ he said gesturing to the glasses and plates, ‘the staff will be back to collect them later… Actually, that’s part of what I wanted to speak to you about.’ Before he continued he studied my face, which remained impassive, not sharing anything, my usual poker face, he nodded at me as if he conceded my poker face, he could see right through me. ‘It’s no secret that im a wealthy man..’ he began, motioning his hands when he spoke. ‘My family is very rich, my parents inherited the majority of their money through their generations, inheriting businesses and bank accounts following the deaths of family members although they do work hard for what they have, I must give them that. However im mostly rich because of my family name and small business firms I created in my spare time to earn money for myself, I pocketed a lot of money from those, especially after I sold them when I was 22, I was working as a secretary during that time too. Mostly because I want to make it on my own, make my own fortune, build my own business empire- I don’t want to inherit fortunes from my parents and live off of their name, I don’t think that’s right, they’ve worked for that not me. Anyway, I’m telling you all this because as you may or may not be aware because of my wealth and public profile I am stalked by the press a lot which means that if you’re involved with me, you may be printed in magazines alongside me, so it’s only fair that you’re made aware of this.’ He finished with a long breath as though he was nervous about speaking and couldn’t wait to get the words out. He peered up at me anxiously, fear and worry masked in his eyes as he watched me from across the bench. I nodded, and sat quiet briefly, trying to collect some reasoning in my head to walk away now whilst I had the chance but a voice deep in my head was beckoning with me to take a risk. Finally I spoke up, ‘ I know what it’s like to be rich, to have the world at your feet and all the money to pay for whatever your heart desires, however I have no interest for money, im quite wealthy too, but that’s because of my father, Robert James, you may of heard of him, anyway I know what money does to a person, if drives them crazy, thirsty for the need to be controlling and powerful, they never have time for you or even five minutes to hold a conversation- or at least that was my view until I met you, you’re so different, when my mother informed me yesterday, I didn’t know what to think, I panicked because I never wanted to date someone who was rich and powerful..’ I paused to look into his wide eyes flooded with panic, he looked deathly white I looked into my lap fumbling with my fingers, ‘.but you’re different, you’re kind, funny and definitely romantic, you make time for me, which must be difficult and we barely know each other which is saying a lot, I miss you when you’re not around which is crazy given our brief time together, so I’d like to take a chance with you- if you want to that is.’ Peering up from beneath my eyelashes I could visibly see the relief wash over his face and audibly hear the breath leaving his lungs- I hadn’t noticed that he’d been holding his breath. My heart melted once more for him. ‘Of course I’d like to take a chance, I was so sure that telling you all this would make you run away-, that I’d never see you again’ his eyes looked so undone, it crushed me, I stood up and walked around to the seat next to him placing my legs either side of the bench so that I could face him and wrap my arms around his sides, I embraced him in a tight warm hug, ‘The first time I saw you, you were leaving the club and you’d called a taxi, I was exiting the building opposite you and I watched you as you sat on the curb waiting, I had to meet you, so I crossed over further down and mingled with the crowd, on closer inspection you were definitely the most beautiful girl I’d ever laid eyes upon..’ he specified, caressing my face, he whispered ‘ I wanted you then, needed you to be mine and seeing that you were cold gave me the perfect opportunity, my jacket was a sure way to show my gentleman like mannerism as well as an excuse for you to meet with me again-, now he we are, and you’re mine and I wouldn’t have it any other way.’ Before I could respond he gripped me in a tight lip locking kiss, surrendering myself to him, showing him what I wanted to say with my lips, I stroked his tongue with mine, over and over, holding his face in place I deepened the kiss, biting his lips at regular intervals, his moans a gratifying response to each tug of his lip. He undone my tight bun so that he could run his fingers through my hair, I began to mirror his actions, tugging at our loose tendrils gripping onto one another, I move forward and around so that I could straddle his hips. Lifting my thighs over his he eased me down more comfortably, he tugged my hair to tilt my head back to have easier access to my throat, the contact of his teeth and tongue made me gasp, turning me on with each tender suckle, grazing his teeth gently along my jugular, I began to grind my hips shamelessly into his lap. I wanted this man, rich or not. Here, now, whenever. Just him. Tobias’ hand came between us to unzip the zip of his trousers making room for his thick heavy sex to stand up between us, I was in awe at the sight of him. He stroked himself, pulling my eyes to him, looking deeply into my eyes. Whimpering in distress I rocked my hips further to show how much I wanted him. He shifted slightly, though holding my gaze.   His sex, as feverishly hot and hard as a rock, stood at the entrance to my sex. Making me hot and needy for him, I gathered my strength and lifted myself up and then down onto him, I wanted it inside me more than I wanted to breathe. ‘Oh,’ I gasped. It took all my self-control and strength, to lift my hips and torso up slowly and drop back down at the same pace, slow, torturous, but the feeling so exquisite it was almost unbearable. Filling me to the point of pain I embraced the feel of his sex in mine. On the sixth lift I tightened around him, so close to coming I could taste it. My hips and back arched without violation, my body straining into his. His grip on my sides tightened as his length swelled thicker and longer. Breathing through gripped teeth I could hear his every breath, the sounds and the feeling were all too much. ‘Oh, Tobias,’ I gasped, convulsing around his thick column of flesh that was filling and possessing me, I continued to ride up and down his steely erection, even after I’d climaxed, bringing him to the point of release. I moaned again, surely I couldn’t come twice? His head dipped and suckled at my nipples with his erection swelling further and further and his breathing becoming deeper. Oh, he felt exquisite. Rolling his hips, he screwed himself into me, exploiting all my tender spots that sent my body quivering. Again. Tobias looked into my eyes once more, continuing his assault on my nipples with his forefinger and thumb, my tender muscles clenched down on his sex so hard that it caused him to groan and throw his head back. The second orgasm struck me like a blow, the overload of sensation rippling throughout my core was a shock to my system. Crying out his name, my sex tightened and contracted over and over. He came with a low growl, throwing his head back as he spurted into me for long minutes, I didn’t think it was going to end. Panting deeply and quickly we sat there until our breathing evened. I struggled to lift off his sex, feeling limp and sensitive, it was almost too much. He lifted me from under my arms. Settling in the seat next to him, I heard him fasten his zip. ‘Are you okay, baby?’ he asked stroking my damp hair from my face. I nodded, gazing at him through sleepy eyes.  I heard him stand up, felt his arms come under me a moment later. Carrying me back to the car I don’t remember the journey home, I didn’t stay awake long enough to enjoy the beautiful night surroundings.             

6.

The bright morning of the day outside poured through my large bedroom windows, flooding my room from wall, to floor to ceiling. The light so piercingly bright it woke me. Glancing at my phone it was 7:30AM. Eugh. Way too early to be awake. Tossing my covers aside I stalked into the en-suite bathroom, grabbing a towel, a razor and flicking on the shower. I undressed from my night clothes. It’s funny that I don’t remember getting home, let alone getting changed. Walking over to the wash basket my cream dress, panties and bra were all neatly piled below. Hmm, strange. Dumping my night clothes I stepped under the warm spray of the shower. Bliss. I showered for less than ten minutes, an all-time record for me. Padding over to my walk-in wardrobe, I glanced at my unruly bed. It can wait. My hair laid damp across my shoulders, I decided natural drying would be a nice change, and the towel wrapped around me was my only article of clothing. Taking out a pair of white jeans and a ruby red peplum top I laid the clothes on my desk because my bed was a mess. Walking over to my underwear drawers I selected my red silk French lingerie set. Very sexy, maybe I could see Toby today and give him a strip tease. I relished the idea. Dropping my towel to the floor I began getting dressed. Pulling my damp black hair into a rather simple ponytail and gripping my tendrils to the base of the ponytail I began fixing my face, red lipstick, bold eyeliner and mascara. I left the bedroom when I felt semi-presentable taking my phone with me. I hurried into the kitchen to make some juice.

Unlocking my phone as I poured the fresh orange juice into a tall glass I noticed that I had two text messages. One from my dad, the other from Toby.

I clicked on toby’s first. ‘Hey baby, I hope you didn’t mind that I carried you to your bed, I changed you into your bed clothes- I didn’t peak too much, I wanted to stay with you, looking so peaceful and beautiful. I hope you slept well, missing you already. T xo’

Smiling at my phone, I didn’t know what to feel about him dressing me. Especially as I’d recalled seeing my underwear in the bathroom. Never mind, nothing he hasn’t seen before. Shaking off an uneasy feeling. I typed my reply, my fingers swiftly moving across the touchscreen of my HTC One S, ‘Hey, thank you for taking care of me, and sorry for falling asleep on you like that, I feel awful! I hope you’re having a great successful day at work and can’t wait to see you soon, missing you too, yours C xx’   

 I scrolled down to the second message from my dad, I didn’t save him in my contact list as dad, just ‘Robert James’. Clicking on the message and reading I was momentarily dazed. ‘Hello Lottie, I’m going to be in Birmingham on the weekend, haven’t seen you in over three months so I thought it would be nice to meet up and have a meal on Saturday, my treat, if you’re not too busy. We can celebrate your results, too. Speak soon, dad x’                Dad, wanted to meet up with me. Pfft, that’s a first. I always thought I was too much of a nuisance for him, which was my way of explaining to myself the reason he never saw me as much. He loved me, in his own way, usually ended a text with ‘love you lots’ as if it was a chore to say so, rather than actually meaning it. He’d never told me he loved me in person, but that didn’t mean I thought he didn’t love me. However, it was still confusing that he would actually make time to see me, usually he’d only see me when he had to, when mom arranged it. But since I was 17 we saw each other every few months rather than every 2 weeks or so because previously mom had arranged all the meet ups to ensure we had ‘father and daughter’ bonding time. Not that either of us wanted or appreciated it.  It was always the same, meal and then home by 6, maybe a couple brief hugs and smiles. Nothing too cosy. I suppose it reflected his powerful demeanour. Although, before my mom had an affair with somebody behind his back he was much different, more open and friendly. Now he was just closed and reserved, very formal, even to his only daughter. I didn’t care too much. I suppose meeting up this Saturday wouldn’t be too bad. Sending my reply stating that it would be nice to meet up and that Saturday would be fine, switching the small device off I placed my phone on the breakfast bar and sipped my juice in silence. I still felt and uneasy feeling at the pit of my stomach, trying to shake it off I looked at the clock, 9am, time for my morning pill. Heading off to the bathroom I took care of business. Padding back out of my bedroom I heard voices arising from down the hall, from Leila’s room. I was going to ignore the arising voices which sounded violent until I heard a smashing sound. Storming off in the direction of Leila’s bedroom, the voices growing louder, I threw open her door, ‘What the hell is going on in here,’ I bellowed, turning my gaze from Leila to Richard who was covering himself with a blanket with a smashed lamp by his left side, Leila standing across the room in her skirt and bra, hands on her hips with her face scowling and deep red. ‘Nothing, don’t worry about it’ the tiny voice of dismissal came from Richard, he looked terrified as he white knuckled clutched the blanket hiding himself from my view or protecting himself from Leila. ‘No, I will worry about it because I thought someone was being killed in here!’ I barked at Richard whilst facing Leila, she shook her head and pinched the bridge of her nose, resigning with my temper and confusion, ‘Look, we were just arguing, I lost my temper, I threw the lamp, everything’s fine..’ looking up at me to reassure me with her eyes, ‘..I’ll talk to you later, could we just grab a minute alone please’ it wasn’t a question, I nodded, glared at Richard on my wait out and quietly closed the door. Boy, he must have really fucked up or something. I haven’t seen her this mad since, well, since never. Pacing into the     living room I picked up the television remote and put on some pointless daytime television to drown at the conversation at the bottom of the hall.   A little after three Richard left the apartment, hanging his head in shame he barely muttered a goodbye as he closed the door behind him. I waited patiently for Leila to come into view. Switching the television off, I went into the kitchen to pour two cold glasses of wine with strawberries.  Sometime later, on my second glass of wine Leila appeared. She had changed into a   pale pink skater dress, with her wavy blond hair tucked into a messy bun, two loose tendrils fell at the side of her face, making her look effortlessly beautiful without any make up on. Not that she needed it. ‘So, you going to tell me what that was all about?’ I asked facing her dead on so to catch any emotions that flagged up on her face before she chased them away. Sitting next to me she took the glass of wine I gestured towards her and she took three large gulps. ‘Richard was engaged, was being the keyword because he called it off last night.. .’ rubbing the bridge of her nose and holding the back of her nose she sighed in exasperation ‘...He was seeing me and her up until last night, he expected me to be happy that he chose to be with me. Said he’d fallen for me and that being with Michelle was a mistake.’ Waving her hand in mid-air, ‘Oh, hunnie,’ I began placing my arm on hers, but she shook her head, releasing my hold she began to talk again, ‘I really started to like him, you know, he was funny, smart knew all the right things to say, pfft...’ she laughed sarcastically at herself ‘...of course he knew what to say. How could I be so stupid, nobody that good, especially in bed comes without attachments. He said that Michelle proposed to him a year ago on his 22nd birthday, said they weren’t even serious, but he couldn’t say no because she’d gone to the effort of hosting a party, inviting all their friends, most of them from her workplace and renting balloons that he didn’t want to embarrass her in front of everybody.  He said he’d been sick with panic every night since that night, worrying about how he would get out of it. We were only supposed to be a fling that night, but he said he couldn’t stay away, which I guess was true he didn’t stop calling my phone when he left the next evening.’ Looking at me for answers on what to do, plea filled her eyes. My heart broke for her in that moment because I knew if I were in the same situation I wouldn’t know what to do, what to feel, how to act. ‘What do you want to do about this?’ I heard myself ask, kicking myself under the table the second the words left my tongue. She shrugged her shoulders. And buried her face in her hands. ‘I really don’t know what to do,’ she sobbed. Wrapping my arms around her even though I knew it wouldn’t help, I stoked her hair and held her tight. ‘You’ll figure it out, you’re the smarter one out of the two of us remember,’ I coaxed, ‘besides you have plenty of time to talk things through, I know you head off to Oxford next Monday, but if it’s meant to be, you’ll work through it.’ She snivelled her nose, and rubbed her eyes, turning to face me she nodded, ‘You’re right, I shouldn’t be moping around, I’ve got Oxford to prepare for and be excited about, I need some space from Richard to get my head together.. if he likes me as much as he says, he can respect me enough to give us this space to think things through.. in fact, im going to call him now and tell him.’ Wrapping her arms around my neck to hug me, ‘ thanks Hun, where would we be without each other’ kissing my cheek she paced back towards her bedroom with her glass of wine. Rubbing my own eyebrow crease, she had a lot on her plate. I do not know how I could deal with it. I wish I could help her more, made me feel impotent as a friend. The sound of the doorbell startled me, wondering who it could be I looked at the clock 7:20, where had the time gone? Still not guessing who it could be, I walked over to the door, took it off the latch to find my beautiful sex god standing before me. His facial expression both relieved and scared. Confused by his expression, ‘Do you want to come in?’ I asked, still dazed by his being here and his expression. Nodding, I could see that he was gritting his teeth.  ‘What’s wrong?’ I asked, studying him from head to toe, closing the door behind him. ‘Nothing, well, it’s just... irrational, I was worried about you, I tried calling, several times actually, to see if you wanted to go out tonight, after I finished work except your phone was off, after the 6th try I got a bit worried and I freaked out. I need to know I can always get hold of you Charlotte, I get concerned, so easily. I’m sorry, Im just a bit overprotective, but Im glad you’re okay, you look beautiful by the way, as always’ He kissed my temple, I melted into him. The contact on my skin despite being brief, left a tingling sensation down my body. Wrapping my arms around him I pulled us closer together, tucking my head firmly beneath his chin. I was both surprised and happy to see him. ‘I missed you’ I indicated honestly, I heard him smile, which in turn made me smile in response. This was nice, simple gestures like this. ‘I’ll keep my phone switched on and on me at all times, just to make sure you can reach me, I’d hate to think of you worrying for no reason.’ I murmured, breathing in his scent. He smelt divine, lynx Africa by the smell of it. Mm. ‘you smell good’ he murmured, mirroring my thoughts, ‘I was thinking the same thing, except you’ I giggled clarifying what I meant so not to seem vain. He peered down at me with a grin, ‘considering you look killer sexy in those white jeans and red top, fancy going out right now?’ he asked smiling, looking down at myself I thought why the hell not, ‘Sure I’ll just grab my bag and slip on some sandals. Heading off to my bedroom I left him and his megawatt smile standing in the hallway, blowing a kiss as I entered my bedroom backwards, I hurried to apply a fresh load of ruby lipstick and found my red fabric wedged sandals, grabbing my shoulder bag I sped walk back to his side, grinning along the way. He had picked up my phone for me, ‘couldn’t forget this’ he said sarcastically, rolling my eyes I popped it into my bag, ‘let’s go’ he said, heading towards the door. ‘Ooh 1 sec’ I put up my finger jogged to the end of the hallway and knocked on Leila’s door, no answer, debating whether to just barge in or not I decided not to. Speaking to the door I said ‘im just going out with Tobias, I don’t know how long I’ll be but don’t wait up for me, cya later’ I paused for a second and then returned to my Toby. I found him leaning against the door frame, his brilliant white shirt still tucked into his smoky grey trousers, his black tie shoved into his left pocket and his top two buttons undone. Mm. Simply scrumptious I thought. Smiling as our eyes met, he took my hand and closed the door behind us.

                                                                              

7

Things were going well in my world as Tobias and I headed to his house in a tidy residential area in four oaks, Sutton Coldfield. We drove up a long drive and came to a stop outside an old moss filled wall with giant iron gates. Tobias pulled out his mobile phone, punched in his key lock and unlocked the gate using a code on his phone. Wow, this was really impressive. I couldn’t keep my eyes off the surroundings this was absolutely magnificent, aside from the iron gates everything seemed natural and blissful, so open. Toby lived here, wow. He pulled to a stop outside the large charcoal garage of his massive Tudor mansion. The typical white on black and old style lamps, it looked beautiful against the trees and flowers which occupied the large outdoor space of his front lawn. It was beautiful. Situated in the outskirt of four oaks, his neighbours were miles apart, the only sounds to be heard were the blissful chirping of the birds and rustling of the leaves in the wind. It was serene and beautiful, unspoiled. He opened my passenger side door and offered his hand to let me out, I had been caught up in my daydream that I hadn’t notice him get out of the car. Walking up the gravel path Toby gave me a light squeeze on my hand, I gave a gentle squeeze in return. ‘Only my family and cleaning staff have come to my house, so this is a big deal...’ he said, I could tell he was anxious about me seeing his place. I could tell that it was a big deal without him saying so. ‘Im honoured to be here’ I stated, I leaned on my tiptoes to plant a soft kiss on his lips as despite my wedged sandals I was still slightly shorter than my Toby. Just my like I mused. Toby opened the door and began showing me around his home, pulling me from one room to the next in an excited trance. The reception hall has oak flooring and a galleried landing which gave the area a complimentary homely touch. Toby also has the largest drawing room that I had ever seen and the dining room has tall stained glass windows- they must cost a fortune I thought absent mindedly. He walked off into a large room, without doors, it was a wide open space. He had a large billiard table in the centre. The floor was carpeted a plush cream colour, the walls were a patterned black and cream. A large shelving unit occupied the far wall, it consisted of trophies, medals and framed certificates from business projects, school activities and from when he was a young boy. I paused to admire them for only a heartbeat. Pictures were scattered around the room from article clippings, fundraiser events and family portraits. This was his room of achievement I thought. I loved this room already, it paints my Toby in a wonderful light and that was just a metaphor, as the room was well lit with an overhead chandelier and wall lights around the base of the walls were bright, illuminating the large space impressively. ‘Your house is magnificent’ I affirmed with awe in my voice, he smiled and shrugged his shoulders. ‘It used to be my granddads, he did all the interior work, the décor, he remodelled the whole house... well, except for the kitchen, I did that, come, I’ll show you’ taking my hand he led me out of the room and into the kitchen, white marble floor, with black marble walls enriched the grand space. The back wall between the countertop units and oven was decorated with a charcoal grey slate brick effect wallpaper. Despite the marble it worked perfectly. Black high gloss surfaces spilled out across the space, black glossy American style fridge freezer was the largest object in the room. A large breakfast bar stood central in the large space with 6 metallic black glossy situated around it. I was in awe of how modern the space was, a wine rack full with 17 bottles of wine neatly resting in their place. The space was beautifully modern and reflected him perfectly. Rich and beautiful. I was still stuffed from our meal at Toby Carvery, my friend Steph recommended it once so we headed there. Toby seemed to enjoy himself a great deal. I was glad he could mingle with ordinary people and still be carefree and happy. I don’t think his wealth will be too much of a barrier for us. For now at least. ‘Do you want some wine?’ he asked bringing his arms around my waist from behind, resting his chin on my shoulders, ‘No thankyou, Im stuffed from the meal, I don’t think I could stuff anything else in, wine or otherwise’ I stated matter of factly with a hint of humour in my tone. He chuckled darkly into my ear, swatted my behind and walked off in search of a glass for himself. I turned to face him, watching how he swiftly moved around the open space, his bare feet padding across the floor. He looked so comfortable in these elegant surroundings. As always he looked so mouth-watering. He’d left his tie, and jacket in the lounge and we had put our shoes by the door as we began our tour around his home. Just seeing him so carefree made him look that much sexier, a man in the kitchen, Mm. I wonder what it would be like to have sex on this breakfast bar I thought stroking the hard cold surface to get a better picture- ‘How long have you lived here?’ I asked interrupting my own thoughts. Looking up from the wine cabinet, ‘4 years’ he stated, retrieving a deep bellied glass from the cabinet, ‘Sure you don’t want anything?’ I nodded and he closed the cabinet door. Walking towards me I pictured him naked, walking towards me with the same look on his face. He stopped before me, and smiled, flashing his brilliant white teeth.  Dropping to his knees he reached between my legs and fished out a bottle of wine from behind me. My cheeks flushed red instantly. I was both turned on and embarrassed. Pouring himself a glass of red wine, I watched his muscled flex in his arm beneath his shirt with each movement. Licking my lips are came up beside him and planted a kiss on his arm. Looking up at him, I seen his eyes become glassy and watched his mouth part to make way for deeper inhalation of breath. I loved that I had an effect on him, because he had such an effect on me. He swallowed the contents of his glass in one large gulp never taking his eyes off me. Stalking towards me his eyes grew fiercer and his body appeared leaner, bolder and musclier. Grr, I wanted to devour him. He swooped me into his arms, dipping his head he crushed his lips to mine, filling it with his tongue. Invading my mouth exploring it deeply, tasting me, and savouring me. I submitted myself unto him, as I always did, he was so powerful and possessive I had no other option but to submit to him. I could feel my blood pumping throughout my body. I was struggling to breathe but I didn’t want to release from the kiss- biting his lip I sucked in /a large gasp of air, ‘Take. Me’ I demanded through pants of breath. A deep growl ascended through his chest in response to my words. The growl rippled through me, awakening my sex. I was so aroused. Squeezing my thighs together I craved his touch. With another growl he lifts me into his arms and im being carried up a long stair case.   I wake with a start, disorientated. Where am I? Toby’s bedroom, the landing land on, emitting light from beneath the door. Tobias is sprawled out beside me, his head back, his eyes screwed shut his face relaxed and peaceful. His left arm is draped over his forehead. The covers barely covering his groin but I could still make out the outline of his sex despite the blanket covering him from my sight. Kicking the covers from my legs I sit up and enjoy my brief moment watching him sleep next to me. Leaning over him, I wipe his wayward strands of hair from his face. As I do so, he stirs ever so slightly. H blinks, looks around and then focuses on my face. Smiling when his eyes found mine. ‘Charlotte’ he breathed, in a haste he grabbed my face with both hands with such speed that it momentarily startled me, pulling me down onto his chest, he began kissing me. His tongue invaded my mouth, he taste distinctively of desperation and need. He flipped me over by rolling over me, his lips locked on mine, crushing me into the bed, pinning me into a still position, locking me beneath him. Keeping me still, he parts my legs with his hands making room for his perfectly shaped his hips, his erection so thick, raw and long straining towards me. Toby gazed down at me for a split second, freeing the contact from our lips.. Grinning, he flexed his hips into me, His erection pushes into my soft flesh. Oh… I moan softly, I needed him, desperately. Sexual tension began building, flooding my system with desire. Wrapping my arms around his neck, I began grinding my pelvis against his in welcome.  ‘I need you,’ I whispered urgently, locking his gaze on my face, ‘me, too’ he pants, his voice low and rough. I want him. I want him, now. Tobias shifts his weight onto his elbow, staring down at me for a split second he suspended his body above mine, searching my body for permission. I nodded at him, eagerly with need. In a swift skilful movement Tobias buried himself in me. My mouth performed a perfect ‘O’ at the penetration, my back arching into him relishing his touch and feel. His lips found my nipples and he pushed into me, over and over, his tongue flickering relentlessly over my sensitive nipples. I met him thrust for thrust, welcoming him.  He continued his assault on my breast, whilst pumping inexorably into my sex. He showed no mercy, worshipping me with his sex and tongue. My body tenses and my legs begin to tremble. Oh my I cry out as the sensation building between my thighs continue to heighten. I can’t take it anymore. Gripping the sheets so hard that my knuckles were whit, throwing my head back I could no longer match his thrusts, the sensation was overwhelming. I explode around him, crying out his name as I did. ‘Charlotte,’ he growls almost incoherently, and he came powerfully, pouring himself into me, his face strained, his body went rigid before collapsing on top of me with his full weight. He eases out of me gently, holding me for minutes. Finally, he shifted next to me, I sucked in a deep suck of air in an attempt to steady my panting. Reluctantly, after I steadied my breath I shift to turn and face him. His face was so beautiful, I could hardly believe he was mine. He was sporting a smug smile like an adolescent boy. I rolled my eyes and planted a soft kiss on his forehead. Without uttering a word to one another we fell asleep facing one another smiling. It was perfect.          

Impressum

Bildmaterialien: Google
Tag der Veröffentlichung: 28.11.2012

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Widmung:
To my cousin Reece, and boyfriend Nathan, who helped me to come up with some of the ideas within this novel. Thank you both :)