Hello, Hello guys. Well, I just managed to remember posting this lol before we're leaving the house. It's only a small chapter, I'm afraid, with not so much substance but we're onto December next so stay tuned ;) Leave me a review, please, I'll be back on Thursday! :)
29th November: Rainbow Room, New York
After having spent quite a lot of time secluded from the world, C.C. had been buried under a pile of work since her reappearance. She couldn't really blame Maxwell for the huge lecture he had given her upon her return. She had silently sat through it, neither defending her actions, nor offering any form of explanation as to her disappearance. It had finally been the former Nanny who had released her from Maxwell's wrath. In a rather uncharacteristic move the brunette had placed a hand on her husband's shoulder and whispered something into his ear. C.C. hadn't perceived her words but whatever it was it seemed to be effective, as Maxwell simply nodded and went silent. After as long pause he had finally quietly told her what he expected her to do. The list of tasks was long and seemed never-ending, but C.C. steadily worked through it without voicing a complaint. She knew that any other employer wouldn't have hesitated to fire her and she was glad for the chance she had been given.
The last thing on the list was the huge backer's party she was currently attending. Numerous couples had been squished into the ballroom, bumping into each other unceremoniously as they tried to manoeuvre their way around the room. She was standing by the door, a half empty glass of Martini in her hand, busy scanning the crowd in an attempt to spot the least slimy backer.
She had just set one foot into the room, when she felt a hand on her lower back, dangerously close to her butt. She froze on the spot and turned her head, ready to throw her drink at the impudent man, when she recognised him as Sean Jefferson, one of the wealthiest backers in New York City. So instead of making use of her drink, she plastered a smile on her face, turned and pecked his cheek.
"The lovely Miss Babcock all alone," he greeted.
His words stung, as did any mention of her relationship status, reminding her of Niles' absence almost painfully.
"Yes well, I find that I hunt better alone." She replied sweetly.
"Oh so you're on the prowl again? I'd volunteer as a prey in a second." He laughed and caressed her waist intimately.
"I'm afraid I enjoy a challenge more." She said and took a step back.
"If you ever change your mind..."he said softly and caressed her cheek with his knuckles, before disappearing into the crowd once more.
She suppressed a shiver and empted her cocktail in one gulp. She would've given anything to have Niles back by her side, to slip an arm around her body and hold her steadily against him in a way that showed that she was his and his alone. Or just to have him waiting for her when she returned home, patiently listening to her many complaints and rants. Her yearning for him was growing stronger the longer they were separated, but as long as she managed to hide the hurt in her heart, she'd continue to flee from taking action.