Chapter 23

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AN: And we're back to Emmett's POV…

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I awoke with Edward still wrapped in my arms. I didn't ever want to let him go. I can't even begin to describe what I felt while listening to his story. It was a jumble of emotions, ranging from horror to sadness to anger. And now, I just feel this overwhelming need to protect.

I turned my eyes to the clock and groaned internally. As much as I wanted to hold Edward forever, I was due at work in an hour. So, I left a lingering kiss on his forehead and gently extracted myself from his arms.

After grabbing a shower and a quick bite, I peeked back in the bedroom to find my sweet Edward curled around my pillow and sleeping soundly. I jotted a quick note to let him know I was sorry that I had to rush off, and laid it on the table, next to his phone.

As soon as I got to the office, I was bombarded with memos and messages galore. More client referrals, follow-ups with current clients, and an urgent message from Aro himself. I heaved a sigh and mentally prepared for whatever Mr. Marcus would have to say. Hopefully it was good news and business related. I told Chelsea to make sure I was not disturbed as I returned the calls and she swiftly assured me she would hold the masses at bay.

First up was Mr. Marcus. As uneasy as he made me, I knew I couldn't keep him waiting. So, I steeled myself and dialed his number.

After just two rings, he answered gruffly, "Aro Marcus here."

"Good morning Aro, this is Emmett McCarty," I began with business-like pleasantness.

"Ah, just the man I was hoping to speak to," he gushed, a saccharine tone overtaking the gruffness of just moments earlier.

"What can I do for you sir?"

"Emmett, you wound me. I thought we were past all those formalities by now. It's Aro, if you please."

"Of course, Aro, excuse my thoughtlessness. Now, what can I do for you this morning?"

"I have a few changes that I would like to discuss with you in person, Emmett. How about lunch at one o'clock this afternoon?"

Well, crap. I was really not looking forward to more face time with Aro. Especially out of the office, where he'd probably feel even freer to come on to me. But, I could hardly turn him down. This was too important and if I screwed up it would not only ruin my reputation, but I'd be fired for sure.

I ran a hand over my face in frustration, but replied as calmly as possible, "Yes, of course, I'll just arrange my schedule. Did you have any particular place in mind?"

"Oh, not to worry my dear Emmett," he purred, "I will have a limo waiting to pick you up outside the office at one pm sharp. Until then…"

And he hung up, just like that. I obviously had no say in the matter, though even if the conversation had continued - it would have doubtlessly come to the same conclusion. A private lunch meeting with Aro… God help me.

The rest of the morning was spent frantically trying to catch up on all my other calls and paperwork, before the big event. I had already informed my boss that I would be taking an extra long lunch break. And, once he found out the reason, he encouraged me to take as long as necessary, even the rest of the day. Just what I wanted to hear. Note the sarcasm.

I decided to close things down for the day, just in case, and made my way to the elevator. Feeling nervous, I tried breathing deeply to get a grip on myself as I descended towards the lobby. When I exited the silver doors, I immediately spied the limo out front. I straightened my tie and walked as confidently as possible to meet my fate, or doom as it were.

The driver was another stocky, bodyguard type – of which Aro seemed to prefer to surround himself with. He seemed friendly enough as he greeted me and opened the door for me to enter the car. I was surprised to find the cab empty, other than a bottle of champagne and a card. Thank God for small favors – at least I wouldn't be riding next to the man in the enclosed space.

I scooted into the cab and picked up the card addressed to 'Dearest Emmett.' It read:

Please accept my deepest apologies for not accompanying you to our luncheon.

I was otherwise detained, but I will see you shortly. Please enjoy the champagne.

Yours, Aro

That man was a piece of work. I set aside the card as well as the champagne and basked in my last moments of freedom before the looming luncheon.

The freedom was short-lived as we soon stopped in front of our destination… an upscale restaurant on Mt. Washington, Monterey Bay. Located atop the Grandview Point Apartment Building, it's well-known for its wonderful view of the city skyline.

That figures. He would choose a pricey place with a romantic atmosphere. At least this was lunch, rather than dinner. But, frankly, I was just thankful we weren't at his private condo – wherever it may be.

I took a fortifying breath as the driver opened the door for me, straightened my suit jacket, and headed in for what was sure to be an interesting event.

I was greeted at the door by an overeager young man, who nearly stormed over me in his haste to welcome me to the establishment. "Hello," he greeted warmly, if exuberantly, "Welcome to Monterey Bay, sir. You must be Mr. Marcus' guest, Emmett?"

I shook my head in the affirmative as he continued without pause, "Yes sir, I thought so. We are so pleased to have you dine with us this afternoon. If you would just follow me, please. Mr. Marcus has booked our Signature Wine Room for your dining today. I am sure you will find it to your satisfaction."

I followed him obediently as he prattled on, "Please do not hesitate to let us know if there is anything we can get for you, sir. Anything at all."

At this he abruptly stopped, nearly causing me to collide with him. He turned and looked right into my eyes, stating seriously, "Sir, you will find that we are very discreet here at the Bay and we will be happy to provide for any of your needs during your visit. Mr. Marcus is a very special client and as his guest, please be assured that we are here to accommodate you." He gave me a knowing smile and a wink, before continuing down the hall.

Well, that sounds just wonderful. What have I gotten myself into?

I didn't have time to think on it, as I was ushered into the Wine Room.

The space was quite large, for a private room, looking like it could seat thirty or so people. Yet it was completely reserved for our meeting. The décor was elegant, yet masculine – with beautiful wood furnishings and racks of wine covering an entire wall. Even in the daylight, the room was filled with candles and lowly lit sconces. Two more walls were made up of floor to ceiling windows overlooking the city. It was quite beautiful, and may have served well for a group business meeting under other circumstances.

But, my eyes were drawn to a candlelit table in a corner near the windows – where Aro sat with a predatory grin on his face. Yes, there was no mistaking his intent or the host's words about discretion. Aro definitely had expectations about this meeting. Expectations which I was certain to disappoint.

He stood and took my hand in greeting, not a handshake mind you, more of a tender grasping of a close friend or lover. He wishes.

"Welcome, my dear Emmett. Please have a seat." He went so far as to pull out my chair for me and to open the skillfully folded napkin and place it on my lap. "I hope that this room is to your liking?" he purred as he reclaimed the seat next to mine.

"Yes," I responded candidly, "I have heard great things about the food here. Now what is it that you would like to discuss this afternoon?"

"Oh, Emmett," he nearly giggled. "You are too much. Let us enjoy this luxurious meal and then we can talk business. Let's save the boring details for later, shall we?"

Internally, I rolled my eyes, but nodded my head in polite agreement.

We proceeded to talk of inconsequential things, while enjoying our elaborate seven course meal. Not exactly the typical working lunch menu. However, it was quite delicious with dishes ranging from fruits and cheeses, to crab cake, stuffed mushrooms, salmon, filet mignon, and swordfish.

Each course was paired with an accompanying wine, which Aro continued to insist that I drink. His pushiness was almost as frustrating to me as his blatant come-ons. I have never been a drinker and am even more cautious due to my cancer diagnosis and the medications I am taking.

There is no way I would put my health at risk for a glass of wine, or rather a half dozen, especially for Aro's sake. Not to mention, I would never let my guard down around him and alcohol would certainly lower my inhibitions.

Of course, he wouldn't take the hint and kept coaxing me at every turn to, "Just give it a taste, Emmett." I wasn't about to let him in on my personal reasons for abstaining and continued to respectfully decline.

Unfortunately, he saw my reluctance as a great excuse to touch me. Whether putting his hand over mine, running his fingers down my arm or putting a 'friendly' hand on my thigh, All of which I immediately shifted away from with tact, but firmness.

For that reason, among others, I was thrilled when the desert course finally arrived.

Yet, even that quickly turned to disappointment. The molten chocolate cake with raspberry sauce and ice cream was served on one plate with two spoons. How romantic. And how very business-like.

Finally, we got down to the matter at hand. Which was discussed and settled within twenty minutes. During that time, Aro was all business – no sign to be found of the hands-y, flirtatious man of mere moments ago. Not that I'm complaining.

When the exchange was complete, he walked me out to the limo, his hand resting on my back and sliding gradually lower with every step. It was all I could do not to shake him off and give him a piece of my mind. If I could just play it cool for a couple more minutes, I would be on my way.

"Well, Emmett," he said in his syrupy way, "I hope you enjoyed yourself as much as I did today.

Not likely.

"Of course, Aro," I responded appropriately by shaking his hand with a firm grip. If it was a little too firm, then sue me. "It was a pleasure doing business with you."

"Ah, now you know the pleasure was all mine," he sighed. "It is unfortunate that I cannot accompany you in the car today. Alas, I have some other business to attend to."

"Not a problem," I responded jovially. "Thank you for lunch and I will give you a call in a few days with some of those figures we discussed."

"Yes, I will look forward to it – very much so. Do take care of yourself Emmett. I look forward to…seeing you again soon." His eyes were beginning to wander over my body and the time had long passed for me to be well on my way out of there.

"Yes," I said abruptly, "have a good day and I'll phone you soon. Good-bye." I gave a quick wave as I stepped nearer to the car, alerting the driver that I was ready to go.

"Well, good-bye then, my dear charming Emmett. I look forward to our next meeting!"

As soon as the car door was closed, I let out an exasperated huff and slumped back against my seat. Thank God for tinted windows. I couldn't wait to get back to my own car and head straight home, where I would hopefully be seeing Edward.

I hated having to leave him today, particularly in light of last night's disclosure. I just hope he is doing okay. Thankfully the meeting from hell is over and I can go focus on my sweet man who deserves lots of affection and care.

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AN: Well, I'm on a roll – two chapters in a month! Hope this makes up for lost time, though I don't expect to keep up this pace for too long. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. I would love to hear your thoughts, critiques, whatever. It means so much to hear from the readers out there!