Hey Everyone!
This is essentially my second story. Hoping to lengthen it if you all enjoy it! I've got great plans for these two characters! *cheeky wink*
It probably seems quite mild at the moment in terms of content but this will soon change with future chapters...so stay tuned and please review! Any feedback is much appreciated.
Happy reading and I hope you enjoy!
Big fanfic love
xoxo
'So, Miss Swann, what type of career are you aiming for after graduation?'
My interviewer stared me dead in the eye. What a stupid question? I mean, I'm hardly gonna turn up to a job interview for an immensely successful advertising firm just to abruptly inform them that I intend to be a world famous philosopher, which wasn't true either but still. Utter stupidity. I mentally huffed in frustration, job interviews were so tedious especially when you're an upcoming graduate with only a few months left to secure a job for the summer vacation.
I was a 21 year old History student in my final year at St August University. My father was a keen historian and bombarded me with history books as a child. When he died 11 years ago something inside of me urged me to continue learning about the past. I could never quite work out what it was that inspired the decision: was it his will or my own? Either way, they seemed to meet in harmony and i sailed through history classes in school, just as I did at University. I sometimes felt like I pondered too long in the past and didn't concentrate enough on the present but I preferred the grandeur of history as opposed to the modernism is today. At times I felt trapped in my own century and longed to go back to the days of the Victorians, the Tudors even. Life was much simpler then, quite possibly a lot harder but definitely more straightforward. Relationships were a simple affair, two people in love and married, with a family. Sure, affairs were common, one only needed to look at Henry VIII's sordid love life to see that but what stood out mostly for me was the chivalry. Men of the past were honourable (mostly) and they offered the world in exchange for love.
In some ways, studying history made me almost bitter about the present. Why was it so difficult to find someone that was truly decent? Not one of those 'fuck-'em- and-leave-'em guys'. Not one of those guys whose idea of a successful date was telling you his life story and never once asking a question that alluded to yours. Yawn with a capital 'Y'. These guys clearly spoke about themselves because they found asking questions far too strenuous for their little pea brains. I suppose they deserved pity more than anything, it'd be difficult to land an intelligent woman with selfish tenacities like that.
Brushing my annoyance to the side, I flashed the most convincing smile I could muster and replied confidently to the question. I was always getting sidetracked mentally speaking.
'Well, I essentially see myself at the top of your organisation, Sir. With all due respect, I'm not one to shy away from a challenge and I realise my work experience isn't particularly extensive but please don't assume that to be a weakness. I like to think it makes me mouldable and receptive to any work environment I'm placed in.'
I flashed a sickeningly sweet smile and leaned forward in my seat, hoping my cleavage protruded slightly.
'If in doubt, Bells, flash 'em these bad girls'. Alice's advice bounced off the walls of my mind. I stifled a giggle at the absurdity of it. Not content to just advise, she'd physically demonstrated. She was a blast.
The elderly man smiled, giving me one of those "nice try" types of smile. I'd started to believe the 'bad girls' were melting that hard exterior but that smile alone put me back in my place. He wasn't convinced of my suitability for the role, and that was evident.
I was gutted really. I still had 6 months until Graduation with my ceremony being in June. Clearly, judging from this poor interview, December's attempts at employment were going to be just as blindingly successful as November's. I'd had a heap of job offers but nothing really stood out from the pack. I couldn't picture myself in the dingy offices of GoldHawk&Co. Couldn't see myself at the workstations of ComCon despite it's insane reputation as a top graduate employer.
If the truth be known, I wasn't actually that interested in advertising at all until Alice brought home a project from one of her classes. Being an Art and Media student was demanding and she sometimes lacked the imagination her project work required. We often concluded that two brains were better than one and so I helped her brainstorm. She was told to come up with the packaging for a new brand of soft drink which sounded straight forward enough but the theory work would need to be an advertising strategy. Alice was fine with the design work but business, strategy and words more broadly were more up my alley. I knew I was cut out for a career in advertising, my mother frequently told me I had the 'gift of the gab'. Hell, I could probably sell glasses to a blind man.
'Well, you've certainly given me a lot to think about. We've seen alot of worthy applicants so, with regret, we won't be able to provide any personal feedback for your consideration. We'll be in touch with you in the next week to let you know our decision. Thank you for your time, Miss Swann'
He stood up and extended his hand to me. I shook it in response, mentally kicking myself for pointing out my own weaknesses. Never point out your flaws: my career advisor's words now echoed in my mind as I descended in the elevator.
As it approached the ground floor I quickly smoothed down my shirt. So much for Alice's grand outfit choice this morning. She'd semi-convinced me that this killer outfit would do the trick, clearly an immature idea. I scoffed at my appearance in the mirrored panel of the elevator door. I did feel sexy but what good was that now?
A black, mid thigh butt-hugging skirt, a black tight low cut buttoned down shirt with capped sleeves, and black shiny Louboutin's could only do so much. The rest was all on me and I'd let my outfit down to an extent. Alice had even gone to the effort of curling my chocolate brown hair, adding more curl to its natural bounce. My eyes were supposed to scream 'invite me to take this position' with their charcoal grey shadow, black liquid eye lined lash lines and heavy mascara lashes. My head drooped lazily to one side, if anything they probably screamed 'I'm desperately inexperienced but please hire me out of pity'. Ugh, I hated being underestimated.
The elevator doors opened and I carefully stepped out. The lobby was exquisite; I was just as impressed leaving it as I was when I first walked into it. White and beige marble floor and walls, it was almost heavenly. The words 'Cullen Creations' adorned the wall to my left, etched on the wall in gold. I had no idea who the director of the company was; my grouchy old interviewer had revealed that the company director was out of the office on meetings all day and wouldn't be able to interview me personally. Despite the fact that the job description had emphasised that the role would entail close correspondence with the Director himself. Charming, clearly employing a graduate was not on his list of priorities. Although, in his defence, I couldn't blame him there. I was sort of grateful I'd managed to spare myself the embarrassment of some hot-shot rich company director grilling me and watching me flounder.
The revolving doors soon swept me back out into the bustling street. I loved city life, the mad rush everyone always seemed to be was refreshing. At least I wasn't the only one swept up in my own thoughts and concerns.
I wasn't quite ready to go back to the house and face Alice, she'd no doubt want all the juicy gossip. What was the interviewer like? Was he hot? Did the 'bad girls' work their charms? I somehow imagined that'd interest her more than my poor interview performance. I headed right and walked a few blocks until I reached my safe haven- Hot Shots, my favourite little café, always peaceful, warm and welcoming. I frequently came here to study as my University was only a few blocks away.
'I'll have a hot chocolate, please' The Barista flashed me a familiar smile, nodded and set about his task.
The coffee shop was surprisingly empty given it was nearly 2 in the afternoon. Then again, I guess it was past the typical work lunch hour for many city workers. It was sort of off the beaten track too which added to its charm for me, but made no doubt made it challenging to find for those that didn't know it already existed.
My drink arrived in front of me promptly. I thanked the Barista and made my way to the sofa at the far back of the cafe, my usual study area was empty luckily. I debated in my mind whether or not I wanted a chocolate muffin with my drink, and turned on my heel, finally deciding that it was a good idea.
I immediately collided hard and fast with a huge but warm obstacle. Realising it was a man, now drenched in my hot chocolate. I blushed instantly. Oh. My. God. I wasn't good with confrontations, especially ones I hadn't initiated purposely. I cursed furiously at my clumsiness. You stupid bitch! I chastised myself over and over.
'Wow I'm so sorry! I totally didn't see you there. I'm so sorry. God, I'm so stupid' I put my empty cup down on a nearby table and reached for some tissues that were resting conveniently on it. My hands flailed in all directions, I was a jittery mess. I was frantically rubbing the guy's abs and lower arms. This was officially the icing on the cake.
I held my breath as the man straightened up, his hands stilled my own. He was much taller than me. I'd say about 6"2 to my 5"9 heeled figure. I was expecting a serious tongue lashing and sorta held my eyes shut waiting for the onslaught of abuse. I definitely deserved. The guy looked absolutely pristine. His previously immaculate attire now a chocolatey mess.
But there was no abuse. He was chuckling.
'No harm done! Don't worry, we've got a few layers of skin, right?' Please don't be nice, it'll make me feel worse!
His head slowly lifted and I noticed his hair was dishevelled but styled. He was sporting the 'just-got-out-of-bed-but-did-it-stylishly' look. His hair was a lighter brown than mine, almost coppery in colour and it was cut quite jaggedly. It was certainly a good look on him...to say the least. His head lifted further and his eyes finally met mine.
Deep brown with golden tinges to them. They were friendly, and warm almost sucking me in unknowingly. His grin was broad, flashing me his pearly white teeth. His jaw was chiselled, his face was undoubtedly masculine but at the same time, it was breathtakingly beautiful. I quickly concluded that I'd collided with quite possibly the best looking guy I'd seen in a while. He was truly stunning. His eyes were like pools of heat drilling into my own. My mouth dropped slightly and gaped open. I was suddenly aware and shut it firmly. Smooth. His eyes swept over my face taking in my expression, or my features? I wasn't sure which one. He lingered at my mouth as I absentmindedly raised bit down on my index finger trying to bite away the humiliation.
He continued to smile. I felt a rush of warmth flood my body darting down my spine all the way to my toes before settling in the pit of my stomach. I shuddered slightly. What the hell was that? I had no idea but it felt so exhilarating.
I shook my head as if trying to wake myself up from my silent sidetrack. I remembered that he'd asked me a question. I needed to claw some ounce of humility back.
'Well, let's hope so. I'm really am sorry' I was so embarrassed I could barely hear it myself. So much for clawing it back...
I gave him a tiny smile and instantly looked down at my feet to escape his gaze, I was officially mortified. My cheeks were burning incessantly from the humiliation of it all. I wanted the ground to swallow me whole, right then, right there. His black suit jacket was on the floor, in a sloppy wet mess at his feet. His black and damn expensive looking shoes were sporting some hot chocolate and his white shirt was barely recognisable as white at all now. It clung to his abs which, admittedly, were well defined, almost glowing at me. He was certainly...impressive. I'd just been touching those. I mentally high fived myself. Silver lining in a dark cloud... err, hello!
I bent down, my curls draped down on either side of my face obscuring my vision. I reached out for the crumpled mess that was his jacket and in doing so collided again with him, this time with his forehead as he too bent to collect his jacket. He laughed out loud. It was a gentle sound, one that he seemed unsure of. Perhaps he didn't laugh very often?
'Oh gosh, not again. Wow I'm so stupid! Sorry!' I instantly snapped up to face him and clutched the right side of my head. My curls bounced back behind me as I flicked my head up. I handed him his jacket with the other. His fingers grazed mine as he took it from me. His hands were soft, his fingers delicately curled around the material. Since when are fingers sexy? Snap back Bells! My lips had parted again. A knot began to form in my stomach having developed from that rush of adrenaline that had settled there only moments before.
'No, not at all. That was my fault.' He flashed me another smile and concern filled his eyes. He reached out and tucked my hair behind my ear. He was so graceful but yet so magnificently built. I snuck a quick peak at his arms, my drink caused the sleeve of his left arm to hug his bicep closely. He tensed his arm. Was that for my benefit? Don't be stupid Bella. My mouth began to water sub consciously.
'Are you ok?' His hand then brushed my fingers again, as if inspecting the damage on my head. A spark ran up my arm and startled me a little. The knot in my stomach intensified. Did he notice it too?
His hand moulded over the top of my own as he lowered them both back down to our sides. His breathing had slowed right down now, apparently over the commotion of it all. He took a step forward, invading my personal space entirely but it was a welcome move. My cheeks were still on fire, this was officially the most embarrassing thing that had happened to me in quite a while. Infact, since I was about 15 and fell all the way down an escalator in the middle of a crowded department store. Ugh!
His gaze flickered up to the side of my head, he smiled kindly again. I looked up at him through my lashes. He smelt unbelievable. Rich and intoxicating. I grew dizzy as the knot in my stomach cranked up its effect a notch.
'Well you're not bleeding so that's definitely a good sign.' He stepped back and I suddenly felt a rush of cold as the space between us flooded with air again. Or was it the rush of disappointment that flooded it instead?
'Ah well that certainly improves the situation a tad, huh?' I smiled softly back as my eyes met his. They were truly captivating. But it was time to take control of the situation. I wasn't a ditzy fool after all, I was an educated woman.
'Well, I for one am quite grateful for this little situation'. He passed his semi-destroyed jacket to his left hand and shook it out as if trying to shake the hot chocolate from it. He squinted down at it deciding it was a lost cause.
I shook my head, annoyed at my clumsiness and curious as to how this could possibly have left him feeling 'grateful'.
'What on earth makes you say that?' I half laugh at the absurdity of it.
He turns his face back to mine and fixes his gaze on me, he grins deliciously. This guy's officially a God! Stop thatttt, I mentally urge him to cease his seduction of me.
'Well it's not every day that such a gorgeous woman spills her drink on me and, graciously lets me buy her another one.' Gorgeous? What? Me? I swallow hard suddenly empowered. Alice's outfit choice had paid off afterall. Here I was being complimented by quite possibly the most attractive man in the entire damn city. My appearance hadn't quite landed me a job but it had scored me a compliment. Not a bad consolation prize, especially coming from Mr Hot Shots himself.
Now understanding the rules of his little game, I decide to play along. I could be flirtatious but it was rarely a side of me I ever unleashed. Only at bars and clubs did flirty Bella come out to play, on most other occasions it was intelligent, sensible Bella. I tucked her away for now.
I cock an eyebrow and smile sweetly at him,
'You've still got time to find one...'
His eyes widen in mock-shock and he slaps his hand to his heart as if been struck with a bullet. I laugh. Surely he's not amusing as well as fucking sexy! They don't make them like that anymore!
'Now that's no way to treat a potential burns victim is it?' He cocks an eyebrow back at me and I can't help but laugh nervously. Is he joking or merely reminding me of my stupidity and injury-inducing clumsiness?
'I never did have a good bedside manner' I smile back, taking the plunge that he was trying to be flirt and expect the banter to continue but he catches me off guard a little.
'Well I certainly doubt that...' his voice trails off as he steps back slightly and begins eyeing me up and down.
He starts grinning as he obviously drinks in the sight of me. Oh Lord, he's checking me out! I shuffle uncomfortably on the spot and shake my head at his obviousness. I wrap my left arm across my body to meet my right elbow, feeling slightly self conscious and wanting to hide myself from his gaze a little. The second I do that I realise the movement pushes my breasts together, which combined with my tight fitted shirt and push up bra merely emphasises my assets further. I blush but pause a little. His mouth parts and his chest heaves, he inhales deeply. I drop my arm content in my efforts. His eyes shift back to mine and he gives me a knowing smile. Body banter is sexy...
He can't quite hide the smirk that spreads across his face. That alone gives me an immense sense of victory. I should've been repulsed by his attention and reaction, every feminist book I'd ever read (which being a politics student was a particularly weighty list) came flooding into my mind. But I mentally batted them away because in all honesty, I was absolutely flattered that someone as devastatingly hot as him would even look twice at someone like me. I'd never thought of myself as stunning or even attractive, I was pretty and I tried damn hard to be sexy but I guess it never came across right...well not to the right guy at least. But in this moment, standing here with a complete yet gorgeous stranger, being openly checked out, I suddenly felt sexy and confident.
I was blushing, but smiling brightly. He shook his head as though mentally kicking himself for being caught staring at my chest. I inhaled deeply myself, my chest rose and lowered. His lips parted wider as though he was about to speak, his gaze drifted again disrupting his thought. I giggled to myself.
'Would you like me to turn around?' I narrowed my eyes and pouted my lips. I was being suggestive yet sarcastic.
He shut his eyes and bit his bottom lip subtly, a small gesture but one that I didn't miss. He chuckled softly before opening his eyes to look into mine.
'Is that a legit offer?' He raised his eyebrow and shot me a lopsided grin. Wow. Where'd he been keeping that little gem of an expression?
There was a pregnant pause as we studied each other's faces. I was trying hard to etch his face into my memory. If i ever needed a visual reference for the definition of 'sexy' then I'd surely have one now. Or if I ever needed a visual reference for a much more pleasurable task for that matter... I hoped he was thinking the same thing... it's always nice to feel desired.
We laughed simultaneously but the sexual tension didn't disappear in the slightest.
'I really am sorry; please take this for the dry cleaning.' I reached into my bag for a cash note and pulled it out successfully.
'It's nothing, honestly. That's not necessary at all.' He reached for my hand and stopped me thrusting the money towards him. Another tremor ran up my arm, I instantly got Goosebumps. What the hell was that and why does it keep happening? Do it again though, please... I looked at him almost longingly.
'I insist, really. I'm too clumsy for my own good, I was miles away.' I push my hand forward and his grip tightens. Score! We stare at each other again, I continue trying to condemn his features to memory seizing this fluke opportunity to see such an incredible example of real beauty before me.
'Well it serves me right for following you all the way to the back of the café, doesn't it?' He holds my gaze. The tension is mind blowing. Is he joking? You can follow me anywhere, I mentally scream at him.
'I'm sure that's not the case' I offer him a smile and push my hand forward further. His grip tightens. He closes the space between us slightly as he steps nearer me; I look up at him again innocently. I probably look like a deer in headlights.
'I guess you'll never know' He winks and gently pushes my hand back towards me and retreats back to his position. He winked? He was so flirtatious, was he this brazen with everyone? My knees began to quiver slightly, the knot in my stomach was increasing in strength.
'Well if you won't take the money, then what can I give you?' I straighten my legs out from their slumped position hoping this will stop the quivering. It works...until he flashes me another lop sided grin. This guy's killing me!
He puffs his cheeks and breathes out in mock defeat.
'Now, Miss. That's one hell of an open ended question, don't ya think?' His eyes dart from side to side as though making sure nobody is listening. I smile cheekily suddenly aware of the connotations hidden in my question. If he picked up on that then where is his mind at? Hopefully in the same place as mind...the gutter!
I roll my eyes and my cheeks flush red, the heat temporarily distracts me from his beauty.
'Only if it's perceived as such...' I whisper leaning into him, stretching to reach his ear.
He chuckles and runs his hand through his hair. The smell of him floods me again given the close proximity. A dizzy spell threatens to overcome me, I retreat and lean back on my heel. My mind clears again. He's intoxicating...
'Let me buy you another drink ...' He pauses for effect '...since you so desperately wanted to see me wet and threw your last one over me!' He raises his eyebrows and tilts his head in the direction of the cafe counter. He might well be wet but my god, I was well on my way to joining him! The knot in my stomach began to loosen as warmth spread to my core. He had a mesmerizing effect on me, there was no denying that. I was undeniably horny.
'I'm so mortified! Can I just disappear?' I say through gritted teeth, my mind was running wild. I wanted him to strip me and fuck me senselessly. What had come over me? You've only known him 5 minutes, you stupid girl. Grow some balls... STOP IT!
'I think the least you can do is stand here and look gorgeous and apologetic. You're not going anywhere...' He pulled my hands from my face and as he did I glanced at the label inside his jacket, now resting in the crook of his arm. It was Armani. Shit! I've ruined an Armani jacket! A HOT SEXY ARMANI JACKET!
'Your jacket is an Armani? Oh. My. Gosh.' I blurt out abruptly like an excited school girl incapable of keeping her mouth shut in Class Assembly.
He looks down at the crook of his arm.
'Huh? Oh. Yeah. It certainly is, I'm sure it'll be fine. I'll just dry clean it. No big deal' He smiled sweetly, his voice was reassuring and friendly. Sexy and considerate, amusing and pleasantly flirtatious without being repulsive. What's the catch?
I narrowed my eyes in suspicion and brought my right hand to rest on my hip. Seriously wondering now, what's the catch?
'Are you going to let me buy you that drink now?' He gave me his cute puppy dog eyes as his bottom lip protruded. He was so damn cute and surprisingly animated.
'Well shouldn't I be buying you a drink, ya know, to apologise for all this?' I laughed realising the irony in his own request.
'Ahhh that's true, well hop to it then! Don't let me stop you...' He side stepped, clearing the path for me to walk a few feet to the counter. I step forward glancing to my left as I pass him, now just a whisper from his face. The smell of his cologne flooded my nose again. It was so fresh but masculine. Truly enticing, like the smell of the Ocean. I smile and continue walking.
'What are you having?' I turn suddenly and find his eyes looking down at my waist, apparently he wasn't quick enough to divert them elsewhere. He was checking out my butt! I mentally High 5 myself again.
He instantly tries to look everywhere but at me. A smirk emerges across his face, he's been caught checking me out again and he obviously knew it. He threw his head back and laughed heartily. I tip my head to the side smirking in response. God, his laughter was infectious... as well as his smile, his scent... pretty much all of him.
He lifts his hands up suggesting he's been defeated. He mouths silently to me 'Busted'. I nod twice slowly and giggle at him. Mouthing back 'Yep'.
He clears his throat and regains composure, trying his hardest to put on his best poker face.
'Whatever you're having. Surprise me.'
'But how do I know you'll like what I'm having?'
There's a pause. He places his jacket on the table next to my empty cup and steps towards me slowly, almost like a predator sizing up its prey - measured tentative movements. He grabs my arm with his right hand and licks the index finger on his left hand. He runs it across a patch of hot chocolate that's stained the inside of my wrist and I watch as it disappears, transferring from my wrist to his finger tip. I hadn't realised I'd been caught up in the hot chocolate river. Apparently, he had. This was purely erotic behaviour, no doubt about it.
I watch him intensely. He stares into my eyes unwaveringly and puts the finger on the tip of his tongue, tasting the liquid he sourced from my wrist. Wow. This guy is electrifying.
'Mmm, well, I like hot chocolate. So no problem there, huh?' His tone is playful but dangerously so. Is he playing with me? I was more turned on than I could ever remember. He was incredible at pushing the right buttons... buttons that had never been pressed before.
'Guess not' I say matter of factly. 'Don't be played with' I mutter to myself mentally. Wise advice my mother once gave me, but I'm sure Alice reiterates it on a weekly basis if I were to ever forget it. At least, don't be played with here. I laugh a little at my own filthy mind.
I turn again and head towards the counter, slowly taking my hand away from his as I swivel my body.
'What can I get you, Madame?'
'Can I have two classic Hot Chocolates, please?'
'Sure, whipped cream on those?'
'Oh urm, definitely on one. Hold on a sec.'
I walk briskly back to the table 'Mr Sexy' has sat himself down at. He's texting on his phone but his head snaps up as I reach him. The muscles in his shoulders and arms tense as he drinks me in again.
'Whipped cream on your hot chocolate?'
He grins devilishly. His eyes widen. Sex. Pure Sex.
'Always...right?'
I grin back, the sexual tension is excruciating. He's obviously asking me a leading question, I shrug not wanting to give away too much. He smiles cheekily perhaps aware of my desire to keep that a mystery.
I tell the barista it's whipped cream on both and he rings up the order on the till.
'Five fifty then, please'
I rummage in my bag for my bank card, my hair falls in front of my face shutting me off from the world temporarily.
'Sorry, it's in here somewhere' I'm speaking into my bag but hope the Barista can still hear me.
I surface after a few moments to find Mr Sexy standing next to me, with his bank card in the reader, hitting enter on the key pad having apparently just put his PIN number in. I look up at him, slightly annoyed and feeling undermined. He seems to sense my frustration. His eyes narrow as he tries to assess my mood and seeks forgiveness.
'Ladies never pay in my world. Not even for hot chocolate' He whispers into my ear as he walks past me with our drinks in his hands, heading back to our table. I smile in defeat and roll my eyes. I look over to find him seated and patting the chair he's drawn up next to him. If he pulled it any closer, it'd be in his lap. If only...
I straighten up, readjust my hair and hoist my bag over my shoulder.
I keep my eyes fixed on him as I stride across the cafe to the table. He unabashedly drags his eyes up my body, slowly and deliberately until he reaches my face. I nervously run my hand through my hair. He mutters something to himself too slight for me to make out. Knowing he's watching me makes me feel incredibly sexy and empowered. Something about his eyes make me feel like he's beckoning me towards him. His gaze is almost possessive, as though I'm the first thing he's ever clapped eyes on. A small shiver runs up my back.
I sit down next to him just as his mobile phone chirps with a message alert. He drags his eyes away from me reluctantly and consults the message with a huff.
He snaps the phone shut in a matter of seconds.
'Bad day?'
'It was until I decided to get coffee...' He sounded sincere but it was such a line. I was flattered nonetheless. Perhaps I wasn't giving him enough credit?
'Just work stuff mostly.' He continued without being pressed for more.
'Well if it makes you feel better, my lack of employment is causing me grief so maybe you should be grateful you've got a job ' I try to sound upbeat.
'I'm grateful on the days when I don't have much hassle'
I laugh. 'Well that can't be very often. Everybody gets hassled in one way or another'
'That's awfully philosophical of you' He says in a posh accent. Is he mocking me? He strares at me with an amused grin on his face and raises his elbow to perch on the table, resting the side of his jaw in the palm of his hand.
'Or just awfully sensible' I reply in an equally posh accent. We both laugh. He shakes his head.
'So if you're not employed, and are seeking employment...that must make you a student in your final year of University and that makes you...' He pauses and counts quietly to himself. '21 years old?'
I nod and clap three times, mockingly and mirror his position by perching my elbow on the table, staring back at him now.
'Your power of deduction knows no limits' I start twirling a strand of my hair round my finger. Something about his gaze made me nervous and excited. And... obviously extremely horny.
'What are you studying then, Smart Ass and where do you grace your presence with?' He nudges my arm with his shoulder playfully. My elbow wobbles.
'Modern History at St Augustus University, I graduate in July next year'
His eyes widen as though in astonishment.
'Brains and beauty, huh? That's my personal kryptonite ya know?' He shoots me a flirtatious smile.
'There was me hoping that my body alone was good enough for ya... you certainly got enough of a look at it...' I sipped my drink and averted my gaze from his. Am I really being this forward?
He laughed and inhaled sharply in astonishment.
'I'd be lying if I said it wasn't a new addition to the kryptonite source list...' His voice was low, almost husky.
I smiled and continued to drink my Hot Chocolate.
'Who's your favourite person from the past?' He raises an eyebrow in anticipation of my answer.
I 'm caught off guard, usually most guys didn't press for any more information about my degree or interest in history. Perhaps they felt it wasn't the most efficient way of getting into my pants. How wrong they were.
'That's a toughie!' I chirp up excitedly. I love questions like this and my enthusiasm was hard to disguise.
'There's tons. How long have you got?'
'However long you want' His face is blank but his tone is firm. He's not bluffing. I smile appreciatively.
'I must say it's refreshing to meet someone that's actually questioned me on it. Most people accept that history is a thing of the past and unimportant' I try not to sound too preachy but my passion is threatening to betray me.
'History is an essential part of today. How can we understand what we are to do if we don't know what's already been done?' He continues staring at me; his tone is warm and inviting as if encouraging me to go further.
'Anne Boleyn is one of them.'
His eyes widen in surprise.
'Anne Boleyn? Second wife of Henry VIII. Interesting choice I must say, why her?'
I lean forward to whisper to him, the movement opens up my cleavage to his view. He tries hard not to look but fails miserably.
'...she singlehandedly seduced the King of England, credit where credit is due.' I sit back, my cleavage escaping his eye line once again. He smiles at me, his eyes are heavy and his breath seems slightly laboured.
He leans into me and tries to take another sneak peek at my goods. His eyes sparkle as he whispers,
'I'm sure she'd give you an equal amount of credit...'
We both laugh quietly together. A comfortable silence descends upon us.
Mr Hot Shots breaks it after a minute or so passes.
'If I'm honest, you've caught me off guard. There was me thinking a ditzy blonde, poorly co-ordinated man, elderly person or anyone else equally unappealing had covered me in hot chocolate... Just to find quite the opposite standing before me' His tone was serious now. The most serious it had been during our whole meeting.
'And what's the opposite of all that then?' I tilt my head to the side, curious.
'A beautiful, sexy, intelligent brunette complete with a fiery personality who flirts unashamedly with me' He throws his head back and laughs.
I softly punch his arm in response, pretending to be annoyed despite the fact that he's right, well about the last bit anyway.
'You think I was flirting with you?' I raise my voice slightly, feigning disbelief.
He nods slowly still grinning. My god I want this guy.
'What was I suppose to do? Drown you in hot chocolate and reject you at the same time?' I raise my eyebrow sounding as cold as I can.
He laughs again, this time louder.
'Ahhh, so you were flirting for my benefit were you? You're so kind!' He bows his head to me patronisingly.
I was suddenly embarrassed. Doubts began to creep into my mind. Have I seriously miscalculated this? I spied the door across the room, it'd probably take about 5 seconds to make it out...
Perhaps he saw my eyes flicker to the exit, I couldn't be sure, he softly brushed his fingers across my arm and whispered to me.
'You gave as good as you got'
I turned to the right and faced him straight on; his lips were parted, his tongue darted out to wet them leaving them shiny...and so tempting. I swallowed quietly. Breathe. Breathe. His eyes were burning into my own, I could smell his cologne all around me again, drowning leisurely in it.
'What are you doing to me?' He said huskily. I stared back at him, my hands fumbled with the half empty mug on the table. He looked at me, his brow furrowed in confusion but a smile still shone across his face.
'Exactly what you're doing to me' I whispered and smiled back. He closed his eyes and held them shut for a few moments. He shifted slightly in his seat, his foot brushing against mine in the process.
There was an intense pause which lasted for what felt like hours.
'What's your name?' He opened his eyes slowly and let his head lazily drift in my direction. The tension evaporated.
'It's Bella. Yours?'
'Edward. And I'm 24. And the proud owner of a ruined Armani suit.' The grin returned. I rolled my eyes and blushed yet again at the mess I'd created. I looked away. I hated blushing and I did it so often. It made bad situations even worse at the most awkward of times. I mean, it's bad enough doing something cringe-worthy but having your cheeks signal this to the rest of the world was just an added kick in the teeth.
My hair fell across my right cheek shielding me from his view. Safe. My relief was short lived though as I felt his fingers lightly brush a few of my curls behind my right shoulder.
'Cute.'
'What's cute?'
'You blush when you're embarrassed'
'Don't remind me' I shook my head annoyed at my own body.
'You don't want me to remind you how gorgeous you are?' He asked practically laughing.
'I'm sure you remind numerous girls whenever you have the chance' I shot him a subtle scowl.
'Well then you've heavily misjudged me, Bella' He sounded hurt and dropped his hand from my hair. Shit, I've blown it!
'Sorry, I didn't mean to offend you' I spoke up quickly. 'Sometimes I'm too presumptuous for my own good'
'Well if I was indeed what you assume me to be then surely, I'd have noticed every female that's walked into this café. Can you honestly say you've seen my gaze wonder at all in the whole time we've been talking...or flirting?' His eyes burn into mine again, he smiled proudly aware of his victory. I could honestly say that I'd not seen his eyes wonder upon anything else at all. Even as he drank from his mug his eyes searched for mine.
'Exactly. Now I think you should just accept the fact that you're sexy as hell and have me pretty much wrapped around your delicate little finger' He wrapped his little finger around my own dragging it away from the mug I was fiddling with. He holds it up to me putting it in my line of sight. So cute!
'You're not short of compliments are you?' I narrow my eyes suspiciously.
'My father always told me every woman deserves to be told how beautiful she is...and you deserve it more than any woman I've ever seen.' His tone reverts back to serious and firm.
I was gushing in my head, his dialect and voice were almost not of this time. He sounded educated, philosophical, wise. Was he faking it? His comment echoed loudly through my head. It was quite easily the nicest thing anyone had ever said to me. I was stunned.
'I'm extremely flattered, Edward. Not quite sure what to say really' I smiled, convinced of his sincerity now.
'I have the perfect response for you... Ready?' He flashed me a lop-sided grin. So sexy...
'...How about..."Yes Edward, I'll most certainly accompany you to dinner on Friday evening"...' His impression of an exaggerated feminine voice genuinely makes me laugh. His eyes seemed to sparkle as he watched me laugh. His gaze was intense, his muscles seemed to tighten as he awaited my response. Is he genuinely nervous?
'That a yes then?' He sat forward trying to close the gap between us, or intimidate me into the correct response. Either way it was a sexy gesture.
'How can I refuse given you asked so elegantly?' I manage to squeeze out in between giggles.
'What can I say? It got a good result!' His shoulders relax and his body hangs limper again. He laughs with me and nudges my arm again with his shoulder. I nudge back playfully.
'What time shall I pick you up? And from where?' He keenly enquires.
I realise then what I've agreed to.
'You really wanna take ME to dinner?' I ask making sure I've got this all correct. Pointing at myself to emphasise the 'me' in my question.
He looks behind both his shoulders and then behind mine, exaggerating and drawing out the movements. I laugh at his goofiness.
'Why'd you ask that? Is there a more stunning brunette around here somewhere that I haven't spotted? Excuse me...' He starts to rise from his seat until I reach for his arm and stop him, forcing him back down as he willingly obliges. I giggle and playfully slap his arm. He watches me intensely, eyes sparkling again. I quieten down suddenly sub conscious.
'I'm afraid you've said yes now, Bella. There's no turning back...' His voice regains its serious tone. He was so seductive it wasn't humanly. One moment he was clowning around and winning me over with laughter and the next he was serious and demure yet still sucking me in. He was officially the sexiest guy I'd ever encountered. Thank god for my clumsiness!
'I'm glad there isn't. I'd love to go to dinner with you.' I lick my lips subconsciously. Edward's eyes immediately became transfixed with my mouth. His breathing seemed to speed up and he zoned out for a few seconds. Is he ok? What the hell?
I cleared my throat and waved my hand in front of his face snapping him back to reality. He smiled goofily and shook his head. He began laughing to himself as though he had his own little private joke going on. My brow furrowed, is he laughing at me?
'I can't believe I'm telling you this after having only met you like 15 minutes ago or whatever. But my god, you are absolutely captivating' He lowers his head shyly, refusing to look me in the eye.
Pleasantly stunned and relieved that he wasn't laughing at my expense after all , I leaned into him whispering into his ear, my cleavage revealed which he doesn't fail to notice. his ear...'8pm, Friday. 42 Fleetwood Street'
I slowly backed away from him and stood up. He smiled broadly up at me like a kid at Christmas unwrapping his favourite present.
'Oh and...the feeling's mutual. It's been a pleasure spilling hot chocolate over you, Edward...' I whispered and finished with a wink.
He chuckled. I made my way to the door and could just make out his response:
'The pleasure was all mine, Bella'...
Please review if you enjoyed! Desperate to hear your thoughts... to continue or not to continue?
