“Yes, you can, Rory. Just take it. It’s been sitting in my closet for the last month.”
“At least let me give you some money for it.”
“Don’t be silly. Consider it a housewarming gift.” She smiled.
I hugged her and we went on with our workday. I kept checking my phone with the hopes that Ian would message me. He didn’t. So, I decided that I would send him one more text message.
“Ian, you haven’t responded to my last two texts. Please let me know you’re okay.”
My shift ended and still no word from Ian. I sighed as I grabbed my purse, and Jordyn and I walked down to the secondhand furniture store. The good thing about shopping in Malibu at a secondhand store is the stuff is practically new. Since the space was small, I had to be creative. I found a beautiful cream-colored leather sofa sleeper, a matching end table, and a small, round coffee table. I didn’t need a dining table since it was just going to be me. I asked the sales girl if she could hold my furniture until I found a way to get it to my apartment. Jordyn said that a couple of her friends had trucks and they’d help out. I hated to impose on people, but I really had no other choice. I owed Jordyn big time. I called a cab and went back to Ian’s.
When I walked through the door, there was a woman standing in the foyer. She was blonde and, when she turned around, I saw that her tits were huge. Damn it. I forgot about the gala. Her dress was unflattering, as it made her look fat. She smiled and introduced herself as Nikki.
“You must be Ian’s house guest?” she said as she snapped her gum.
“Yes, I’m Rory. Is Ian upstairs?” I asked as I pointed.
Just as she was about to answer, Ian came down the steps. He stopped and looked at me.
“Did you get my messages?” I asked.
“Yeah, I did. Now, if you’ll excuse me, Nikki and I have a gala to attend.”
He put his hand on the small of her back and led her to the door. As he walked out, he turned his head one last time and looked at me. It wasn’t his apologetic look this time. It was a big fat “fuck you” look. He shut the door and I stood there in tears. I had to get out tonight. I couldn’t live here anymore. I ran up the stairs as my heart beat rapidly. I grabbed a duffel bag that was sitting on the shelf in the closet and started stuffing some clothes in it. As I packed some things from the bathroom, I called a cab. I took a blanket that was sitting on the chair in the corner and shoved it in my bag. As I held it in my hand, I stood and looked around the room that had been a source of comfort to me over the past couple of weeks. A tear streamed down my cheek as the honking of the cab horn came from the driveway.
****
I inserted the key into the lock and opened the door to my new apartment. I flipped on the light switch and admired my half newly painted walls. I set my bag down and looked around at the empty space that was mine. The paint and supplies were in the corner of the room, so I decided to finish painting since I had nothing else to do. When I brought the can of paint over to the counter, my phone beeped. I pulled it from my pocket and noticed a text message from Adalynn.
“What’s going on between you and Ian? I asked him why he didn’t bring you to the gala instead of that blonde bimbo and he yelled at me and told me to mind my own business. Did something happen?”
I really didn’t know what to say to her, so I opted for the easy way out.
“It’s a long story. I’ll explain it to you over coffee.”
“Okay, but you’re still coming to my party on Saturday, right?”
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
I pulled out the rest of the paint supplies and finished painting my walls. I took a step back and looked around the room as I yawned in exhaustion. I looked at the time on my phone; it was already one a.m. Ian had to be home by now and I bet he’d brought that girl home with him. I washed up in the kitchen sink, spread the blanket on the carpet, and curled up into a ball and fell asleep.
The chiming sound of my alarm jolted me out of a sound sleep at five thirty a.m. It was the time I had it set daily so I could get up and go running. I picked up my phone to check my messages and nothing. Did he even realize I’d left? I bet he didn’t because he was probably too busy getting off in that room with the blonde. The thought burned through me like a gasoline fire. I shook it off and dug through my bag for my yoga pants and a t-shirt. I quickly changed, put on my running shoes, and went for a run. The morning air was brisk as I ran down the street, over two blocks, and down to small beach where an exercise class had just started. My ponytail swung from side to side as I jogged across the beach, trying to forget about Ian. He occupied every bit of space in my head. As much as I needed to forget about him, I couldn’t. I wanted to forget about him because a man like him spelled trouble and heartache. He’d already broken my heart and we were nothing but friends, or at least we used to be. I jogged back to the apartment because I had to start work in an hour.
The day passed quickly and I really enjoyed working with Jordyn and Ollie. The two of them were so cute together. You could tell that he was totally in love with her. That was something I’d wished for my whole life; to be loved. Jordyn grabbed my hand and took me outside Java Hut.
“Come on. I want to show you something.” She smiled as she led me upstairs to my apartment.
As soon as she opened the door, I heard “surprise!” I took a step back and covered my mouth with my hands in excitement as I looked around my fully furnished apartment. Jordyn hooked her arm around me.
“I had the guys pick up your furniture today while we were working. SURPRISE!”
I was overcome with emotions because I didn’t know what to say. Everyone was being so generous and helpful. “Thank you. I don’t know what to say.”
“You’ve already said it.” Ollie smiled.
After everyone left, I ran my hand along my new couch, smiled, and sat down. I stared across the room, taking in that this place was mine, all mine. I was getting kind of hungry and I needed some things for the apartment, so I put on my shoes and went to the local Target to stock up. I was browsing in the clothing department when I came across a beautiful black lace dress that would be perfect for Adalynn’s birthday party. I looked at the price tag and smiled when I saw that it was well within my price range. It might not have come from Nordstrom, Saks, or any other high-end store, but it was pretty, and I loved it. After I arrived home and my arms felt like jelly from carrying all those bags, I preheated the oven for the frozen pizza I’d bought. Once I put everything away, and when my pizza was done cooking, I took it from the oven and sat down on the couch with my laptop. I did something I had no business doing; I googled Ian Braxton. The fact was that I missed him. Why? Why did I miss someone who only thinks women are good for one thing and one thing only? Before stupid words came out of his mouth, he was kind and caring. Every time I thought of him, all I saw was his smile. The headline that grabbed my attention was: ‘Who will tame Malibu’s most eligible playboy?’ It was right above the picture of Ian and a woman on each arm. The picture was dated a month ago. Could someone like Ian even be tamed? I picked up my phone and almost sent him a text message, but I didn’t. I brought up his name and stared at the flashing cursor that was waiting for me to type something out. After I closed out of it, I set my phone down, unfolded the couch, put the new sheets down, and crawled under the blankets as I cried myself to sleep.
“Rory, I’m in trouble,” I heard Stephen’s whisper over and over again.
“I’m looking for you, Stephen, but I can’t find you. You need to follow my voice.”
“You promised me that you’d take care of me, Rory. You promised.”
“You hurt me, Stephen. You hurt me really bad.”
“You lied to me, Rory. You lied!”
Stephen’s scream jolted me awake. My skin was drenched in sweat and my face was soaked with tears. It took me a minute to realize that I wasn’t in bed and that I was crouched in the corner of my new apartment. I was shaking, like I did with eve
ry nightmare. The only difference with this nightmare was that Ian wasn’t here to hold me and calm me down.
Chapter 10
A few days had passed and then it was the night of Adalynn’s birthday party. We had been texting back and forth over the past couple of days. She asked me if I needed anything and when I told her that I was doing fine, she didn’t believe me and came over with a bunch of kitchen items, extra sheets, towels, and washcloths. We had lunch and not one word was mentioned about Ian. She had told me that that her birthday was a no-gift birthday party and I’d better not buy her anything. I didn’t listen because everybody deserved a little something on their birthday, so I bought her a silver bracelet. Nothing expensive. Just a little thank you. I really thought that Ian would have either called or sent me a text message asking if I needed a ride to the party, but he didn’t. I still hadn’t heard a word from him since that night he spoke about his mother. Thinking about seeing him tonight made me nervous, but I had a plan. My plan was to not look at him, talk to him, or even be in the same room as he was. It wouldn’t be difficult because I was sure he was bringing one of his hookers to keep him company.
I stood in front of my bathroom mirror and put on my makeup. I played with my hair and tried different styles before I decided just to curl it. After curling the last strand of hair, I ran my fingers through the loose curls and sprayed them with hairspray. I slipped on my black lace dress with the three-quarter-length sleeves and sweetheart neckline. It was the type of dress that hugged my body and showed off my hourglass shape. I felt sexy and confident as I looked in the mirror. As the cab pulled up to the curb, I put on my black heels, grabbed my purse, and took in a deep breath as I shut the door.
When the cab pulled up the long, winding driveway of Adalynn’s house, nervousness settled in. The valet opened the door and helped me out of the cab. There was a couple who pulled up behind me, so I let them walk ahead and I pretended just to blend in with them. The oversized doors were opened by a really hot guy wearing a black tuxedo. He was older, but extremely handsome, and definitely someone you could sit and stare at all night. He looked at me and smiled as I walked through the door.
“You must be Rory,” he said as he lightly kissed my hand.
“Yes, I am.” I smiled.
“It’s nice to finally meet you, Rory. I’m Daniel, Adalynn’s boyfriend.”
I wasn’t surprised. As beautiful as Adalynn was, I knew her partner would be equally as gorgeous.
“It’s nice to meet you, Daniel.” I smiled.
“There you are! And, oh my God, look at you. You look amazing,” Adalynn said as she flitted across the room and hugged me.
“Happy Birthday,” I said as I handed her the small gift bag.
“Now what did I tell you?” she pouted.
“It’s nothing big. Just a token of my appreciation for everything you’ve done for me.”
“Aw, you’re just too sweet. Come in and have a drink. There are some people I’d like you to meet.”
She led me to the living room, which was filled with men in suits and women dripping in diamonds. I felt so out of place. I scanned the room to see if Ian was there, but I didn’t see him. There was no way he wouldn’t come to Adalynn’s birthday party. After leading me through the living room and introducing me to some of her friends, Adalynn and I walked out onto the patio and I stopped dead in my tracks as I looked a few feet in front of me. Ian was staring at me. There was no expression on his face at all. Just a blank stare and dead eyes. My stomach began doing flips and I wanted nothing more than to run away. I grabbed a glass of champagne off the tray as the waiter walked by and started to sip it as I turned away. I couldn’t even bring myself to give him a small smile or wave. I was angry at him for ignoring me the way he did and it stung to look at him.
After meeting more of Adalynn’s friends, I walked to the corner of the property, where it was quiet. I felt so out of place with all these rich people, even though some of the ones I met were nice. I walked over to a beautifully lit gazebo that sat in the middle of a large flower garden. I could hear the soft music that was playing throughout the entire property. I sat down on the bench and took off my shoes. My feet were already killing me in those heels. As I admired the flowers that surrounded me, the mixture of colors and the beauty of them made me feel both happy and sad.
“You look beautiful,” a familiar voice spoke softly from behind.
My heart started racing and my belly did flips. I closed my eyes for a moment before I turned around and looked at the sexy man standing in my presence.
“Thank you, Ian.”
“Do you mind if I sit down?”
“No. Have a seat.”
This was awkward and uncomfortable. Why would he talk to me now? He had his opportunity and I didn’t know if I had it in me to struggle to be nice to him.
“I like your hair curly like that. It’s very pretty.”
“Thanks.” I smiled as I looked down.
“How are you, Rory?”
Stay calm. Don’t give him attitude. Breathe. Be nice. “I’m fine, Ian. How are you?”
I really wanted to ask him why the fuck he cared how I was now and not a week ago when he chose to ignore me and my text messages.
“I’m okay. How’s your new place working out?”
“It’s great,” I lied as I looked at him.
“Are you still having the nightmares?”
“Yeah, every night.”
He folded his hands while he looked straight ahead. “I think you need to talk to someone about what happened to you. I know someone who may be able to help you. She’s a good friend of mine.”
I bet she is. “Thanks. But I don’t think so. I couldn’t afford it anyway.”
“You wouldn’t have to worry about that,” he sighed as he rested his elbows on his thighs and cupped his face in his hands. “I’m sorry, Rory. I’m sorry for ignoring you.”
Suddenly, my heart started to slow down and beat at its normal pace. It took a lot for him to come over to me and apologize. I put my hand on his and he turned his head and looked at me.
“I’m sorry too.”
“Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers began playing. “Would you care to dance?” he asked with a slight smile.
“I would, but I don’t know how,” I replied as I looked down.
“Then I’ll teach you.”
Ian took my hand and helped me up. He wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me close. He then wrapped his hand around mine as we swayed back and forth.
“Just follow my lead.” He smiled.
I was nervous as all hell. I’d never danced with anyone before. I started to ache down below for him. His strong hand wrapped around mine, and when our bare flesh touched, it sent shivers throughout my entire body. I slowly closed my eyes and concentrated on not stepping on his feet.
“For someone who doesn’t know how to dance, you’re doing very well.”
“Thanks. I’m trying really hard not to step on your feet.”
“Ah, well, I wouldn’t mind if you did.”
I looked up at him and smiled. The song had ended and so did our dance. He let go of me and my hand and I walked down the steps of the gazebo and stood in front of all the big and beautiful flowers. I ran my finger along the petals of hydrangeas and then bent down to smell them.
“I take it you love flowers,” Ian said.
“I do. They represent life and growth. As long as you give them tender loving care and everything they need, they’ll thrive. Like people do in life. Even if the flower starts to wilt, it can so easily be brought back to life.”
“I never looked at flowers that way,” he said. Ian put his hand on the small of my back as he stood next to me and looked at the array of flowers.
He put his hands in his pocket, turned around, and started to walk away. When he was a few feet away, he stopped in the middle of the grass and stood there. “I miss you, Rory,” he said as he continued to walk away. His words
stabbed through me much like the knife had.
I blurted out, “Tomorrow morning, six a.m., I’m going running if you would like to join me.”
He stopped again and stood there. “We’ll see.”
And just like that, he left. I walked back up to the house and, when I stepped inside, I saw Ian kiss Adalynn on the cheek and walk out the front door.
“Why did Ian leave?” I asked.
“He got a call and said there was something he had to do,” she replied as she shrugged her shoulders.
I stayed long enough to sing “Happy Birthday” and have a piece of cake. It was getting late and I wanted to get home, so I called a cab, said my goodbyes, and left.
****
As my alarm went off, I rolled over, fumbled to find my phone, and turned it off. I noticed I had a text message from Jordyn.
“I had to switch your day off from Tuesday to Monday because one of the girls quit last night. I hope you don’t mind. Enjoy the next two days.”
I smiled as I got out of bed, went into the bathroom, and stared at the bags under my eyes from another nightmare and sleepless night. Maybe I should take Ian up on his offer to see a therapist. I changed into my running clothes, threw my hair up in a ponytail, and looked at the clock. It was six a.m. I guessed Ian wasn’t coming or he would’ve been here by now. I should’ve known better than to get my hopes up where he was concerned. I sighed with disappointment and opened the door. I gasped when I saw Ian sitting down on the steps.
“It’s about time,” he said with his back turned.
“It’s six o’clock right on the dot and why are you sitting on the steps? You could’ve knocked,” I said as I walked down and stood in front of him.
He got up from the step and stared at me. He took his thumb and lightly swiped it under my eye. “Another nightmare last night?” he asked.
I nodded my head as I stared into his eyes. “Come on; let’s get going. You lead,” he said.
I ran my usual course. The only difference today was I had a hot and sexy millionaire by my side. “I was thinking that maybe you could give me the phone number of that therapist you know.”