Hope you are enjoying the story so far. This is quite a long chapter. Enjoy it As always I appreciate the reviews, keep them coming.
Chapter 7:
It was a perfect day to spend at the zoo, the sun shining beautifully down on New York, no cloud in the sky, but with a tad of light breeze to cut through the heat. It was a perfect sunny day to achieve perfect photos, with bright vibrant colours. There were so many animals to see and things to do at the zoo, and Owen had arranged to get VIP tickets and even selected one encounter with one of the animals for Madison to get close to and be able to touch them and have a photo with them. Considering how the day had started, it was turning out to be an enjoyable one.
Claire had woken up with a massive headache after all the wine she drank the night before, feeling utterly foolish and stupid this morning. How did she let a simple conversation get so out of control? She almost felt like she couldn't face Owen this morning. How was she supposed to look at him after the way she acted and the way she practically threw herself at him? And to make it worse, she got upset because he stopped them from letting things get out of control, when he was doing the right thing. She felt so embarrassed, but the minute the door bell rang all feelings of embarrassment flew out the door when her eyes settled on Jessica standing next to Owen.
'Jessica?' Claire said shock obviously written all over her face at least it was obvious for Owen but not for Jessica, as she pulled her in a hug, and Claire glanced quickly at Owen who signalled her that he was just as surprised.
'I didn't know you were coming as well' Claire told her as she pulled away from her.
'Last minute thing' Jessica replied 'I hope you don't mind' she told her.
'No…not at all' Claire replied, lying through her teeth. What was she supposed to tell her? You are not welcome. This is supposed to be family time, and you are not part of it? The thing is that she was going to be part of it if her and Owen got married. She was going to be Madison's step mum. The thought of that leaving a sour taste in her mouth. It shouldn't really because they were best friends, but apparently where the matters of the heart are concerned, those things don't seem to matter. It almost made it worse. Claire hated the idea that someone else would be acting as Madison's mother because she was her mother and no one else, not even her best friend was supposed to be.
Claire was dying to talk to Owen now and Jessica gave her the perfect opportunity when she asked to go to the bathroom before they left for the zoo, and Claire wasted no time.
'I didn't know Claire honestly' Owen told her 'I was just as surprised. I even had to make a quick phone call to get an extra ticket reserved' Owen told her.
'I can't believe she is doing this' Claire muttered running a hand through her hair.
'Do you think she came with the intention to not leave us alone?' Owen asked her.
'I don't know. She hasn't talked to me all week. The last time I spoke to her was when I told her that you are Madison's father. She hasn't texted or called. Nothing, and I wasn't sure if I should so I didn't, and now she shows up unexpectedly to spend a day with us? Doesn't sit right with me' Claire told him.
'Mm when you put it that way…' Owen started telling.
'Hey you should know. She is your fiancée' she told him sourly, which didn't go by unnoticed by Owen 'She hasn't said anything to you? I mean what was her reaction afterwards?' Claire asked him.
'She was practically normal, not that I saw her a lot to be honest. I was spending a lot of time here with Madison after work. The only thing I am only realizing now is…' and then he stopped. He shouldn't be telling Claire that. The last thing he wants to do is hurt her.
'Is what?' Claire asked him, but that was when Jessica appeared, interrupting their conversation.
'Shall we go?' she asked.
And now they were walking inside the area where Madison could see one of the penguins close up. Owen crouched down next to her so she could touch him and then she was touching him, stroking his soft fair and if Claire had reservations about how the day was unfolding, watching the bright smile on her face as she did, made it all worth it, even if she had to pretend all was right with the world. She wanted to take a photo with the penguin, not that she had to ask really, because Claire was already taking photos while Owen tended to their daughter, and then Owen was calling her to join in the photo. 'Let's take a family photo with the penguin' he said, and Claire found herself crouching next to him behind Madison, one hand on Madison's shoulder and the other one holding onto Owen as he wrapped one arm around her, a bright smile plastered on all their faces. They took turns taking a photo with the penguin, and lost in the moment, they forgot Jessica was watching them from behind the window. Owen had asked her if she wanted to go in but she told him that this was his moment with Madison, but when Claire stepped in automatically following her daughter, Jessica was left behind. They were making memories right in front of her eyes…as a family, and all she could do was watch them share this beautiful moment. It was only when they all stepped outside that Owen and Claire realized they left Jessica outside on her own. 'It's fine' she said dismissing them, but they glanced at each other quickly not quite convinced, but didn't say anything.
They still had about two to three hours left at the zoo until it closes, because Madison insisted on staying there until they close, even if they have to go round the zoo and see the animals twice, so they sat down at the restaurant inside the zoo area, mainly because Madison wanted to get an ice-cream while the others got something to drink. The restaurant was quite full, loud noises of kids screaming and laughing, people eating and drinking, taking photos round the table while the radio played in the background, and then it started playing and Claire's heart stopped…and so did Owen's. A shiver ran down Claire's spine, goosebumps covering her whole body, as her lips parted slightly on their own accord, her eyes now fixated on his green ones. He could see tears filling her eyes, making his heart break and all Claire wanted to do was run out of the bloody restaurant. This was torture. How the hell did they end up like this?! And while their eyes remained on each other, Jessica was completely oblivious to what was going on around her. The song was the one thing Claire never shared with her, so it was like it was hers and Owen's secret, and when the song finally ended, they dragged their eyes off each other, finally releasing a breath they didn't know they had been holding.
After that, the time at the zoo seemed to drag on forever, not that they weren't enjoying themselves, but now their minds were filled with images of that night, the song still playing in their heads.
'Can you stay daddy?' Madison asked him after they arrived home. He peeked quickly at Claire who looked like she had seen a ghost at that request, so Owen bent down in front of his daughter and took her hands in his.
'I can't now princess, but tomorrow we have another day together, and I promise we will have a lot of fun just like we did today, okay?' he asked her. Madison nodded with a sad look on her face and Owen pulled her into a hug.
'You can stay if you are not in a hurry' he heard Claire say and he looked up at her. She shrugged with a smile but Owen knew that she was saying that because Madison was upset.
'Thanks Claire but we really need to get going, but I have something for my little princess before we go' he said and he turned around and handed Madison a plush penguin which made all sadness evaporate in an instance, as she cheered and hugged Owen making him laugh.
Claire smiled at them hugging, it was just a scene that would never get old she thought.
oooOOOooo
'Oh this was a great idea Owen' Claire told him as she looked at him through her sunglasses while she laid stretched on her back, her head popped up on the bags while she flipped through the magazine in her hands.
Owen turned on his stomach smiling at her. It was true. She was relaxed and it was so good to see Claire that way. All smiles and happy, like she had no weight pulling her down for a change. Dressed in a pair of jeans, white t-shirt and matching sneakers, fresh air was doing her good. It was just the three of them this morning, and it seemed like it was what Claire needed, out enjoying the day as a family.
'Looks like you needed this more than Madison did' he told her.
'Maybe' she shrugged with a smile and then she sat up, pushing the magazine aside. She pulled up the ray ban on her head so she could see him better 'Thank you Owen…for everything' she told him.
'For everything?' he asked her a bit confused 'What's everything exactly?' he asked her.
'This…today…her' Claire told him pointing at Madison who was happy playing collecting flowers.
'I really should be thanking you then' Owen told her 'For giving me such an amazing daughter' and Claire smiled.
'She looks so happy' Claire told him.
'That's because she is' Owen told her. Her eyes were shining so bright, he couldn't help but let himself drown in them. He wanted to stare at those emerald eyes of hers all day, every day. She seemed to have a different air to her today. It was almost like she had made peace about their situation or maybe it was just the fresh air. He couldn't really tell, but it felt like he didn't have to be careful around her today, like he was walking on thin ice. Usually, the sexual tension would sky rocket high up in a matter of a second, but today, she was just smiling at him and almost shy away at times.
'Hey Madison' Claire called out and the little girl came running towards them with some flowers in her hands.
'For you mummy' she told her handing her the flowers she collected.
'Oh pumpkin thank you' Claire told her as she leaned in and kissed her chubby cheek 'Shall we take some photos?' Claire asked her and Madison nodded happily.
'What am I missing here?' he asked them, feeling left out on a private joke.
'We' Claire started telling him as she pulled Madison to sit between her legs 'Like to take a lot and I mean a lot of photos' she informed him.
'Oh really?' he laughed and they both nodded.
'And we are going to give you a taste' Claire teased. Owen laughed shaking his head but followed their lead.
When Claire said they liked to take a lot of photos she wasn't kidding. They couldn't stop laughing as they flipped through the photos they took. There was one with the three of them laying down on the grass in a triangle all of them looking up at the camera, one with Madison sitting on Owen's shoulders with Claire in front of them, Madison wearing Claire's sunglasses and one with Madison wearing Owen's cap but there was one in particular where Claire had her eyes closed, a smile plastered on her face as she leaned into Owen with Madison posing in front of them, that really caught Owen's attention. She must have blinked while taking the photos because there was another one in the same positions where her eyes are open. There was just something beautiful about that picture. There were photos of Claire wearing Owen's cap, Owen wearing Claire's sunglasses and everyone is laughing. Photos of them making funny faces and then there was one where they are sitting down and Owen had his chin resting on Claire's shoulder, Madison on his back, Madison's arms wrapped around his neck and she is looking from over Owen's head. Not to mention the ones Owen took with just Madison and also Claire and Madison together.
'You were not kidding when you said you like to take a lot of photos' Owen laughed.
'We took some really good ones too' Claire replied proudly 'I can't wait till I print them. We need to choose which ones to frame as well' she told him.
'You didn't take one with mummy, daddy' Madison told him and they turned to look at each other, their eyes wide but with a smile on their faces.
'You want me to take one with mummy?' he asked her and Madison nodded. 'Sure princess' Owen replied as he turned to look at Claire 'Shall we?' he asked her. She shrugged smiling. She was definitely not going to object to taking a photo with him. Owen wrapped one arm around her waist pulling her against him and leaned his head against her as they took a selfie.
'Kiss her daddy' Madison told him and they turned to look at each other, laughing. Owen leaned in and kissed her on her cheek taking another selfie.
'Your turn mummy' Madison told them. Laughing, Claire grabbed his cap and wore it the other way round before she leaned in and kissed his cheek, her hand resting on his thigh.
'You girls are crazy' Owen laughed 'Now how about we play some ball?' he asked and Madison cheered 'Okay…me against you and mummy' Owen told them.
They laughed chasing each other, passing the ball and tackling each other. It started completely innocent as they played and laughed hysterically until Owen tackled Claire at one point and they rolled on the ground with Claire landing on top of him, her hands resting against his head, his hands resting on her waist, their eyes locked on each other, their breath coming out in pants, all innocence evaporated into thin air. He reached up and pushed a strand of hair that was blocking his view behind her ear, his hand sliding down her cheek, his thumb caressing his cheek, everything and everyone else vanishing for a moment until Madison jumped on top of them and they all laughed despite the lost moment.
When they finally left from the park and headed home, Owen gave Madison a bath while Claire emptied the bags and put things in place, and then he stayed there while Claire took her shower and changed and when she got out of the shower, there was a mug of coffee waiting for her. She was so touched by his gesture and when he smiled at her, she felt her insides melt.
'Hey Owen' Claire called out as she leaned against the door, resting her head against her hands 'Thank you for today. It was a lot of fun' she told him smiling softly.
'You're welcome Claire. I had a lot of fun too' he told her as he cupped one cheek and caressed her skin with his thumb. She smiled at him, enjoying the feel of his touch against her skin flattering her eyes momentarily, she grabbed his t-shirt and kissed his cheek, letting herself linger a little, until she pulled away slowly but not too far. He smiled kissed her forehead, his fingers caressing her cheek still and went on his way.
oooOOOooo
The sun was scorching down on New York Monday morning, as the birds sang up in the trees, the waves crashed against the shore in the distance. The seals barked, the lions roared and bears growled feeling the heat and Owen cursed for forgetting his cap and sunglasses behind. His mind was all over the place this morning, with Jessica seemingly putting the extra effort to try and keep him longer in bed, and his mind still focused on the weekend he had with Madison and Claire, his mind was focusing on everything except work.
'What's up with you this morning man?' Barry asked, a friend and a colleague, who Owen was more than appreciative for landing him this job.
'I forgot the bloody cap and glasses at home and the sun is punishing me for it this morning' Owen replied.
'Nah it's not that. Your mind is not here today' Barry told him 'Which reminds me…who is that hot chick you had with you last Saturday?' he asked him and Owen beamed as he turned his head to look at him, his arm covering the sunlight.
'That hot chick…is the mother of my daughter' Owen informed him with a grin on his face. Barry had been out on leave last week, thus not being up to date with Owen's life, not that he made his private life public, but Barry was his best buddy and he was pretty much the only person Owen would open up to.
'Shut up. Since when do you have a daughter?' Barry asked, hitting him surprised in his chest with the back of his hand.
'Since last week apparently' Owen replied. He filled him up with everything that happened and how Claire was that woman he had once mentioned to him but happened to be Jessica's best friend, up to the amazing weekend they had together as a family.
'Ouch man…looks like you found yourself in a bit of jam' Barry told him grimacing.
'Tell me about it' Owen replied dryly running a hand through his head.
'No wonder you can't focus. I know what my head would be focusing on with that red head around' Barry teased as he made a silly expression with his eyebrows, making Owen laugh as he slammed his hand in his friend's chest.
'Don't encourage me please' Owen begged 'My mind goes there on its own accord. I can't get her out of my mind. She is all I can seem to think about. Ever since I saw her again, and please note I have seen her every day since, she is constantly on my mind. She is even haunting my dreams' Owen told him rubbing his forehead, feeling a headache coming.
'I wouldn't exactly say haunting but I understand what you mean' Barry told him 'What are you going to do about it?' Barry asked.
'I don't know man. I am to marry Jessica in less than three months and I find out I have a family with her best friend who happens to be the woman I longed for, for the last five years' Owen told him.
'Well…I'd say it's a no brainer but you know what your heart wants' Barry told him, before he went on his way to continue with feeding the animals.
oooOOOooo
Claire pushed the door to her office open as she hung up finally from a call that has been going on for the last half an hour. She practically threw the phone on the desk and dropped all the papers she had in her hands with a loud plop before she let herself drop on her chair behind her desk sighing heavily. She was completely exhausted already with the early start at the office today and all the meetings and conference calls she already had, and now she had about another three meetings outside the office. She was so busy she didn't even have the chance to think of the amazing weekend she and Madison had with Owen, nor about the fact that she had yet to eat something. She was about to go and grab something to eat when her mobile rang again.
'Hello' she answered without checking who was calling.
'Claire. It's Jessica' she heard her friend say and Claire stopped dead in her tracks. Before the whole Owen situation, Claire would have cheered and talked non stop to her friend. They would actually update one another on what's happening in their lives frequently, but ever since they found out that Owen was the mystery man from Claire's past, things seem to have change automatically, and Claire hated that. She hated the fact that their friendship was changing, and not just that, but it was changing because of a man.
'Jess…everything okay?' she asked, trying to push the awkward feelings away.
'Yes yes. I was just wondering if you could come over. I was thinking of refurbishing the bedroom before the wedding and I need your help' Jessica told her.
Claire hesitated a bit but then remembered that this was her friend that was on the line and needing her help. She couldn't possibly deny her her request because it was about the room she shares with Owen.
'Sure. Are you at home?' Claire asked her.
'Yes. Can you come over now?' she asked.
'Sure. I'm leaving now' Claire told her, and with that she grabbed her bag and went on her way to meet her friend. She had never been at their new apartment yet since it hasn't been long since they moved to New York and Claire was always very busy, so Jessica sent her a location on her phone and Claire followed the directions. She could feel her stomach turn in knots though as she approached and Claire hoped that Owen wasn't there at least. He shouldn't be at this hour but then again he could also have taken his break now to come meet them so they could discuss the refurbishment of the bedroom. She wasn't sure she could do this though. How was she supposed to discuss the details of what they wanted in their bedroom with him being present, when all she wanted was to share her own bedroom with him. There were times when she didn't think much of it but when something like this comes up, it was impossible not to think about it.
Jessica greeted her as if this whole Owen thing being Madison's daddy hasn't happened and Claire was aware of it. She was acting like nothing has happened. She wanted to talk to her but wasn't sure what to say or if it was best to just leave things the way they are. A part of her remembered the promise they had once made when they were young…that no man will ever come between the two of them. That their friendship was strong and important more than any man in the world, but when Claire had slept with Owen that night and gotten pregnant from him, the world shifted on its axis without realizing until five years later. The fact that Claire had a daughter from him, made things even more complicated. It would have been awkward if she had just slept with him and Claire would have to just deal with keeping her feelings at bay and that was it, but the fact that Madison was involved, it made Claire see things from a different perspective, and her daughter's happiness was now more important than her friendship with Jessica. Not that she wanted their friendship to be ruined and all that, but if she had to choose, she will always chose her daughter. The fact that Owen had left such a big impression on Claire, the fact that he has given her a daughter, a life without knowing, the fact that they had connected so much, made things even harder. She was starting to realize that she wanted to him all for herself. Watching him with Madison, being a family, after raising Madison on her own so far, was giving Claire a new perspective of life. It was like she was watching what she could have, what she so much desire right in front of her own eyes. It was so close but yet still so far away. Owen was being absolutely wonderful with both of them and after spending the whole weekend together, Claire realized she wanted this even more, in fact when Jessica had showed up for their outing at the zoo, she hadn't liked it. She had actually gotten really pissed off at her friend for intruding on their family time. She wasn't sure if Jessica had picked up on that or not, but if she did, she was hiding it pretty well.
Anyway, today was a new day and Jessica seemed to be all bright and sunshine this afternoon, so when Claire arrived they prepared two coffees and Jessica proceeded to showing her best friend who happened to be a house designer around the apartment. It was a two-bedroom apartment with also a laundry room and a nice big balcony. The only drawback to this apartment was probably the fact that it had only one bathroom which obviously was not ensuite. She felt her body turn cold and a rush of blood rushed through her ears, almost blocking everything Jessica was telling her, as her eyes settled on the bed ahead of her as they walked into the bedroom where the redesign was to take place but all she could see was Owen laying in the middle of it, and Claire had to try really hard to control all the images that were popping up in her head.
'Claire? Are you alright?' Jessica asked her realizing she hadn't heard a word she was saying.
'Mm? Oh yeah sorry. It's just been one of those days already that's all' she told her. She wasn't exactly lying telling her that even if that wasn't the real reason 'So tell me, what did you have in mind?' Claire asked her.
'Not sure but the room feels a bit dark and I wanted to brighten it up, make it feel more airy and bright and maybe possibly change the layout?' Jessica told her 'Oh and there is one thing I almost forgot. I saw it once in a movie and I fuckin' love it' Jessica told her and huge grin on her face.
'What is it?' Claire asked intrigued, furrowing her brows a little bit, as she jotted down some notes.
'A mirror attached to the ceiling above the bed' Jessica blurted out, her smile so wide it must have hurt.
Claire's eyes popped out at that and her eyebrows shot up, her mouth almost falling wide open 'A what?' Claire asked.
'A mirror above the bed' Jessica repeated.
'Why would you want a mirror above the bed?' Claire tried to laugh it off, but she felt anything but laugh. Putting a mirror above the bed served only for one purpose, and Claire really didn't want to think about that.
'Well duh…so I can watch Owen make love to me, why else would I want that?! I saw it and I really like it. Do you think you can design that for me?' she asked again.
'Su…sure. I will need to send an architect to assess the ceiling but if all is as it should be, it shouldn't be a problem' Claire stammered. She needed to get out of here. She could suddenly feel herself getting claustrophobic and emotional. All she could see was the bed, and Owen and Jessica making love with the mirror on top of them, watching each other being one. She just needed to get out. She needed to breathe, and she needed to get out now.
'I will start working on a design and check in on you when it is ready okay?' Claire told her, as she turned around and started making her way out of the bedroom 'I will send one of my guys to take the measurements or if maybe you have the blueprints of the apartment I will be able to take the measurements from there' Claire told her before grabbing the mug of coffee and taking a sip. It was just the right temperature. It was exactly the way she likes it, but then again this was Jessica who had done it for her, and no one knew her better, and that is what terrified her, because that being said, she must know what Claire is thinking and feeling right now, and Claire wasn't sure she wanted her to know that. It was only then that Claire realized how much she needed this coffee 'I love your apartment by the way and this coffee is divine' Claire told her just for something to say.
'Thanks' Jess replied with a smile 'Is there anything I can do to improve it? Sometimes I feel like it is a bit dark but I guess some white paint can fix that' Jess told her to which Claire nodded.
'That and maybe add some colours when accessorizing, some rugs or carpets and some plants here and there and you would give it a completely different look' Claire advised.
Getting out of there hadn't been that difficult since Claire had an appointment to attend to, but going through the rest of the day without having her mind thinking about the fuckin' mirror above the bed, had been somewhat of a challenge. At first she kept imagining him with Jessica but as the time and the days passed by, the image of Jessica started fading away and getting replaced by herself being under him or on top of him…but it was definitely her…the red hair couldn't be mistaken.
He was pushing inside of her as she arched her back, her arms traveling up his back, her head dropping back, as his lips kissed her neck. Her eyes caught them in the mirror above them, and damn that was hot and sexy watching them making love. Her eyes were watching him…naked on top of her. She could see his muscles flex as he moved, the way his butt tucks in making her hands travel down to grab his ass….
'Claire…Claire…are you alright?' she heard him say making her jump and spin around in her chair.
'Owen' she whispered feeling her cheeks blush at the sight of him, standing in the doorway of her office 'What are you doing here?' she asked him as she got up from her chair and walked over towards him signalling him to walk in. He closed the door behind him and turned back to face her 'You're blushing' he told her amused 'Did I interrupt anything?' he asked her feeling somewhat entertained.
'NO…no…you didn't' she lied a little too quickly.
'Yeah right' he replied smiling knowingly making Claire hit him a couple of times 'You wanna share?' he teased. He had a feeling he had interrupted a hot day dream…possibly one where he was involved and they were both naked together, because even though he was engaged to be married to Jessica, sometimes it was so easy to forget who he was engaged to. That night five years ago had been so good, Owen just longed for a repeat even though he really shouldn't.
Claire rolled her eyes at him laughing 'Idiot…what do you want?' she asked him. It amazed both of them how easy they had become comfortable around when another, comfortable enough that she could call him an idiot and they would both laugh it off in just a matter of weeks.
'Oh yeah…I wanted to check…to ask you…when is Madison's birthday?' Owen asked her and Claire furrowed her eyebrows at him, a hint of a smile still on her face.
'Is that why you came all the way here to my office?' she asked him crossing her arms, her eyebrows still shooting up 'It couldn't have waited till later?' she asked, not that she didn't like such a surprise.
'Yes' he laughed 'I'm sorry I should have called first, I know you are a very busy woman but I was hoping that her birthday is still coming because I have some ideas that I wanted to discuss with you, well that is unless you already have something planned' he told her and then he stopped 'I'm sorry. I keep talking and I don't even know when her birthday is' Owen told her.
She couldn't help but laugh at how excited he was getting. There was just something so beautiful in seeing him and Madison together that just makes her heart swell in her chest.
'Actually her birthday is in two weeks' she told him with a smile on her face.
'Oh really? That's great. Do you have anything planned?' he asked her.
'Nope. I am ashamed to say I haven't even had time to think about it. Actually, this is the first time that I am thinking about it' she told him as a sudden realization hit her, suddenly feeling a little bit panicked 'Oh my God…I am so late in planning anything' she told him with a gasp, placing a hand on her forehead as she started to pace around the office.
'Hey hey…calm down' Owen told her as he placed his hands on her shoulders first 'You are not doing this alone Claire. I am here to help you this time' he told her, cupping her face with both hands now, his thumbs stroking her cheeks, trying to calm her down.
'I have just been so busy with work lately, it slipped my mind and now I don't think I have enough time to organise a party for her. I have meetings scheduled, and designs I have to do and then there's the workshop…oh shit' she cursed as she almost started to turn white now as she thought about it, her eyes flying wide open.
'What? What is it?' he asked her straightening up. She had this horrified look on her face like she had forgotten something really important.
'I completely forgot about it' she started saying. Owen took her hand and lead her to the couch so they could sit down and talk 'I have this workshop in nine days. It's in Chicago and obviously I can't take Madison with me. I already missed out on this workshop last year, I really need to go this time' she explained.
'Go. I'll take care of Madison myself' he simply told her 'She can stay with me for a couple of days while you are away. I would actually love to have her, and I can take care of her birthday party as well. Just tell me who you want to invite and leave everything up to me' he told her 'You just focus on your work'.
'I just…I just don't want you to think I'm a bad mother or something. I mean which mother forgets her daughter's birthday?!' she asked him feeling herself tearing up all of a sudden, and Owen noticed the unshed tears. She had been feeling a little anxious lately, especially since her visit to Jessica's apartment but she didn't think much of it at first. She just thought that she was just making a big deal because she had feelings herself for Owen, even if she hated admitting it. She didn't hate the fact that she had feelings for him, but the fact that he was Jessica's fiancé. Everything was just confusing and complicated and between all of her feelings and her work which demanded a lot from her, Claire just had too much on her plate right now, and she was starting to feel tired.
'Hey hey hey…no one thinks you are a bad mother Claire…I certainly don't think so' Owen told her as he cupped one cheek and started stroking it for her 'Where is all this coming from?' he asked. He was watching her breaking down right in front of him, and all he could do was watch her and maybe hold her if she lets him. He just wished he could do so much more for her. She was an important person in the company she works for so it was natural to have a lot on her plate, and with being a single parent for so long and always having to take care of so much on her own, maybe it was just time to try and slow down now with Owen being in the picture, and let him help her a little bit more.
'I don't know…maybe I'm just tired. They have been a couple of crazy days that's all, with all the meetings and deadlines and designs I had scheduled, and then Jessica called me to redesign your bedroom and I couldn't exactly say no…' she went on.
'Wait what? Jessica called you to redesign our bedroom?' Owen asked surprised.
'Yes…wait…you didn't know?' she asked him surprised.
'No. Why would she call you?' he asked her.
'Well I do happen to do this professionally and we are best friends…' Claire started telling him as if stating the obvious.
'Yes and you also happen to be the mother of my daughter. As if the situation isn't awkward enough. She shouldn't have asked for your help especially when it is the bedroom she wants to redo' Owen told her almost angrily. How could Jessica be so unsensitive towards Claire?
'Hey don't worry about it. It was more what she asked for then the actual fact of redoing your bedroom that kind of set all this in motion, and I know I am a professional and I shouldn't let it affect me but…'
'What does she want then?'
'Here…let me show you' she told him as she got up from the couch and walked over to her desk, taking a seat behind it, Owen stopping behind her chair. She made a couple of clicks on her laptop and the design popped up in front of them.
'Wow that looks amazing Claire' he told her 'It looks really different and bright. Hey…what's this?' he asked her pointing at something above the bed.
'That's…what Jessica requested' Claire told him 'It's a mirror'.
'A mirror? Above the bed?' he asked surprised.
'Yep' Claire replied shortly.
'But why? Why would she…?' And Owen stopped realizing why she wanted that 'Who does that?' he asked.
'She saw it in a movie and she liked it' Claire explained 'Hey…I can't exactly blame her. It's kinky…I would want one if I had someone to make love to' Claire told him a little too quickly as she turned her head to talk to him, not really thinking about what she was saying. Big mistake. Her eyes settled on his lips before she lifted them a bit so she could look in his eyes, only to find he was already looking at her. Their eyes locked on each another and Claire could hardly breathe. All she could think about was his eyes…his lips…and then they were leaning in, closing the distance, when the phone on her desk started ringing, making both of them jump away from one another. Claire quickly picked up the phone and Owen stepped away rubbing his face, before letting his eyes settle on her again, and then on the design in front of her. She had his bedroom on her screen…a mirror attached to the ceiling…how was he supposed to be thinking of Jessica now while in his bedroom when everything about it will be reminding him of Claire?! Claire hung up after a couple of minutes and Owen had hardly realized she did, her voice startling him, almost making him jump, being so lost in thought. Claire narrowed her eyes, studying him, wondering what he could be possibly thinking.
'So do you like it?' she asked him as she twirled around in her chair to face him again.
'Mm? The design? Yes…yes of course I do. Who wouldn't? But she really shouldn't have asked you to do this' Owen told her. It wasn't just the fact that Jessica was being insensitive towards Claire, but also the fact that she didn't say anything to Owen about this redesign that was pissing him off. They had never talked about it and Owen felt like Jessica was changing lately. She was doing things she didn't used to do, such as doing something like this behind his back. It wasn't like she had just told Claire and didn't have time to talk to him about it. She had this planned for days now and she didn't say anything.
'Owen it's fine' Claire replied 'Really'.
'It is not fine Claire. She was being insensitive asking you to redesign our bedroom' Owen replied.
'Maybe she was just trying to send me a message' Claire replied.
'What message?' he asked.
'That you are hers…not mine' she replied bluntly furrowing an eyebrow and crossing her arms in front of her chest.
'Oh come on Claire…seriously? You really think that is the reason? Isn't it simpler and economic to just say what she wants to say instead of going around it this way?' Owen asked.
'I don't know Owen…I really don't. It feels like our friendship is changing lately' Claire told him with a shrug 'Ever since we found out you are Madison's father, we don't talk much anymore' Claire told him.
'I'm sorry Claire' Owen apologized. Claire assured him that it wasn't his fault and then had to excuse herself for practically throwing him out as she had an appointment scheduled due to start in a couple of minutes. He promised her once again that he was going to handle Madison's birthday party and encouraged her to relax and calm down a bit and promised her, he will see her later before leaning in and kissing her temple. There was just something about her that always had him wanting to make some sort of physical contact with her especially after having one of those moments earlier. He admired her sometimes about how she managed to ignore what had almost happened almost every time and continue with the conversation as if it was never interrupted.
oooOOOooo
Owen was lying in bed, his arms bent his fingers hidden under his head as he stared up at the ceiling imagining the mirror above him. What was she thinking? How could she do such a thing and not discuss it with him? Why would she tell Claire to design their bedroom? He wasn't stupid. He knew Claire has feelings for him just like he does, and the last thing he wanted to do was hurt her. Doesn't Jessica realize that she was hurting her by asking her to design their bedroom? It was like she was rubbing it in her face, and Owen didn't like that.
He felt like he had been suddenly hit with a brick in his face when Claire started having that panic attack in front of him. He didn't realize she had been so stressed when he went to visit Madison after work. Maybe it was because he had been trying really hard to focus on his daughter and not get distracted by her mother, well not to mention how Claire had been spending a lot of time on her laptop in the kitchen while he helped Madison with some school stuff she sometimes had or played with her. He realized today that Claire needed him to help her, that she has been doing the single mom life for too long, and having such an important job like she does, was certainly even more exhausting.
He heard the water being turned off and realized that Jessica was almost ready from her shower and ready to get into bed, and something told him that she was up for it again tonight but Owen didn't feel like it. He had contemplated talking to her about redesigning the bedroom and not telling him. He planned on telling her that she shouldn't have told Claire to do their bedroom, that she was being insensitive, but something was holding him back. Maybe it was best to stay out of it. The last thing he wanted was to expose insecurities tonight. It was late and he was tired and Owen planned on waking up early tomorrow morning, so he turned on his right side to face the wall and pretended to be asleep. Luckily, he didn't have to pretend for too long, as by the time Jessica emerged out of the bathroom, Owen was fast asleep.
oooOOOooo
It was barely seven in the morning when the doorbell rang, and Claire made her way towards the door yawning as she tied a bow to close her robe, pulling the door open to find Owen standing there with a bright smile on his face.
'Pancakes anyone?' he asked her.
'What? What are you doing here so early?' she asked him as she stepped out of the way to let him in and closed the door behind him.
'I thought I come and give you a hand to get things ready this morning and take Madison to school so you can have some quiet time to get ready' he told her.
'Really?' she asked surprised and then she remembered what had gone down in her office the previous day 'Is this because I almost had a panic attack yesterday?' she asked him.
'No…well yes but I realized you have been doing this on your own for too long now, and I guess it is time you got some help' he told her.
'Owen…that is really sweet of you, but you really don't have to do this' Claire told him, as they made their way into the kitchen.
'I know but I want to' he replied, and who was she to object to that. The truth is that she would love some help. She was too proud and stubborn to admit that she needed it, but it was completely fine to admit that she would love to have his help, so while Owen got things ready in the kitchen, Claire made her way upstairs to wake up Madison for her surprise, because it was definitely going to a wonderful surprise to find her daddy there.
'Daddyyyyy' Madison cheered as Claire stopped in the entry of the kitchen. She put her little girl down, and Madison ran towards her father, who lifted her up and twirled her around, enjoying the sound of her giggles.
'Surprise' Owen told her and Madison hugged him, thanking him for coming. They sat down and indulged in all the pancakes and the different creams, sauces and chocolate Owen got for them, while Madison sipped on her vanilla milkshake. This was nice…really nice. A family moment to remember, and as Owen glanced towards Claire, he caught her smiling at him. She was looking at him in a particular way that warmed his heart, and Owen couldn't help but store that somewhere safe.
'What?' he asked her.
'Thank you for doing this…I needed this' Claire admitted.
'You're welcome' he replied 'How about we make it a date…like set a particular day of the week…let's say…Wednesday. We do this every Wednesday…what do you think?' he asked her.
'I like the sound of that' Claire replied 'What do you think pumpkin?' she asked Madison, who nodded eagerly and gave them a thumbs up, making both of them laugh, as she kept on chewing on her pancakes.
Claire went upstairs to start getting ready, and Owen assured her that she could take her time if she wanted to, which she did. She had a nice hot shower and let herself relax for the first time in God knows how long, enjoying the feeling of not having to rush to take get ready and take Madison to school and then rush to go to work. Instead, this morning, she had a really delicious breakfast, and was going straight to work.
Finally ready from her shower, fully dressed and make up ready, she made her way downstairs putting her earrings on to find Owen putting the satchel on Madison's bag and ready to go, and another hot coffee waiting for her on the counter.
'Ready princess?' Owen asked her. The girl nodded and went to hug her mother before going to school. Claire felt herself getting somewhat emotional as she watched her little girl waiting to have her daddy drive her to school, and Owen caught that.
'Are you okay?' he asked her placing a hand on her arm, and Claire nodded 'Okay' he replied before he leaned in and kissed her cheek 'Talk later. I will let you know as soon as I drop her off' he told her and with that Owen and Madison were out of the house, leaving Claire with her coffee for a brand new day.
oooOOOooo
'Thank you for this morning…I owe you one' Claire texted Owen, as she sat behind her desk in her office smiling at the phone.
'You owe me nothing…besides…the day is not over yet' he replied. Claire furrowed her brows in confusion and texted back.
'What do you mean?' she asked him.
'Wait and see ' he replied.
Claire couldn't help the smile that crept on her face as she re-read those messages recalling that day, while she sat in her seat on her way back home from Chicago. She had been away from Madison…well and Owen for three days and Madison's birthday was happening in two days, and Claire was a bit anxious to find out what Owen had planned. He had kept everything secret, and all he told her was that it was going to be a party neither one of them will ever forget. She couldn't wait to see and hug her daughter, hear her narrate everything she did with her father while she was away, not that she didn't have any idea because Owen made sure to text her and update her with photos and videos of everything they had been up to…from visiting the park and the playground to having tea parties and taking lots of funny photos. Owen even sent her a photo of him wearing make-up and Claire had to admit that it was hilarious and special at the same time.
A part of her wished she was there with them, having fun with them, taking photos and making beautiful memories while on the other hand, a part of her enjoyed the alone time she had. She had even managed to catch up with her sister after a very very long time. She had let her know that she was going to be in Chicago and Karen who lived in Wisconsin had made it a point to visit her. They had grown somewhat apart living so far away, but now that they have met, Claire realized she missed having her sister in her life, and they promised to keep in touch more often. Karen also promised her she will try and visit her with the boys in the near future and even apologized for not being there for her to help her raise Madison. She told her that she wanted to get to know her niece better, and wished that their kids could grow up to be close as they once were.
Glancing back down to the phone in her hands, Claire let her mind wonder to that same day in the evening after work. She had gone home to find Owen and Madison cooking dinner…
'What's going on here?' she asked.
'Daddy is cooking dinner' Madison replied 'Spaghetti with meatballs' Madison informed her.
'Mmm yummy' Claire replied with a smile as she went to kiss her daughter on her head and then walked over to where Owen was busy cooking.
'What's all this?' she asked him smiling at him, her hand resting on the small of his back so she could lean in an smell the sauce he was preparing.
'Spaghetti with meatballs' he replied smiling knowing that that was not what Claire was asking.
'No I mean…this' she told him glancing back towards the food on the burner.
'I told you the day isn't over' he reminded her 'You should go and change. Food is almost ready' he told her and with that she smiled and went to change into something more comfortable.
Thinking about all these little moments, Claire couldn't wait to see them. She made it a point to keep the day clear so she could spend time with Madison. Deep down she wished Owen could spend the day with them, but then again it is not like they are together or anything. He is just Madison's father.
As she flipped through the photos Owen sent, she realized that Jessica wasn't in any of the photos he sent her, and Claire wasn't sure if that was on purpose or just by coincidence. The thought that she was being Madison's mother for the last couple of days made her stomach turn. It was nothing against Jessica, far from it, it was only that she longed to be a proper family with Owen and not having to share him. Thinking about Jessica, made her recall the bedroom she designed for them, and by now everything should have been installed, because she made it a point to have it ready while she is not there so she wouldn't have to visit and watch the workers install the mirror above the bed. Jessica had said that it was fine and that they could use the spare bedroom while the master bedroom was being done, but apparently, Owen had stayed with Madison over at her house. He had of course asked her if that was okay for her and Claire had insisted that it was fine. He said that he wanted Madison to still feel close to her mother while she was away since this was the first time they were being separated and had assured her that he won't be sleeping in her bed and Claire had laughed, telling him that it was not a problem. The thought of having him in her bed, did something to her but Owen had insisted that he would be using the spare bedroom. Of course, Jessica didn't like this one bit, feeling like Claire was coming between the two of them and that was when Owen had found the opportunity to let her know that she shouldn't have asked Claire to redesign their bedroom, that she was being insensitive towards Claire, and they had ended up having quite the argument, all while Madison was sleeping of course. He was not going to have his daughter witness a fight over her mother. She had accused him of still having feelings about Claire and Owen had all but avoided to answer that accusation, telling her that she is being silly and that he was only trying to make up for lost time with his daughter while helping Claire raise Madison together now that he was in the picture.
So lost in thought Claire didn't even realize they had landed until everyone started getting up from their seat and pulling out their hand luggage from the compartment above their heads. She could feel the butterflies tease her stomach as she waited to see if Madison and Owen were waiting for her. She had told him she would catch a cab but Owen had insisted that he would pick her up and to stop being silly.
The sound of Madison's voice caught her attention and Claire practically ran towards her daughter, as she picked her up and twirled around, making Madison laugh as she hugged her tight.
'Ohhh…it is so good to see you pumpkin' she told her kissing her all over the face, making Madison giggle.
'I missed you mummy' Madison told her and Claire smiled lovingly at her daughter.
'I missed you too' she told her kissing her nose and then she turned to look at Owen.
'Hey you' she said with a smile as she wrapped one arm around his neck to hug him.
'Hi Claire' he replied hugging her back and kissing her cheek 'How was the trip?' he asked her.
'Good. Flew by really quickly' she replied.
'Are you tired or do you have anything planned?' he asked her and when Claire shook her head, Owen filled her in on what his plan was for the rest of the day while Claire just stood there and listened and agreeing with everything he said.