by Way, Maggie
A gasp escapes my mouth, and I drop my pen onto the floor. “Are you serious? How is that enough time to plan everything they need?”
A running list of things run in my head. It’s still possible to do, but I need all relevant documentation, contacts, RSVPs, lists…and on it goes.
“Yes, I realise it is a bit rushed, but the venues for the ceremony and reception are all booked. Luckily, I was able to get the final RSVP guest list, so you can work your magic and get the rest done when you arrive.”
“I’m not a bloody magician, Gabe,” I groan and rub my temples to make sense of what I need to do.
“Hun, relax. I’m not trying to underestimate the work, but this one isn’t too bad. Hence why we are charging them this much, for the last minute service. Besides knowing you, you’ll have all the work done by the time you arrive!” He chuckles. “And we’ve got Tristan to help us out remember? He’s coming to Bangkok straight after his trip in the States. I bet you’ll be excited right?
I blush, clearing my throat. “Umm yeah sure…”
“Yeah speaking of that, I need to talk to you about that. But when I see you.”
I nod in agreement. “Okay, sure thing. I’ll go to your place when I’m done packing?”
Gabe pauses for a moment, and I can hear him trying to stifle a giggle. “Actually, I’m here already. In Bangkok, that is.”
My nostrils flare quietly, I feel all uneasy now. I have to endure through another flight alone? Gah! I was really hoping my Xanax free flight would involve Gabe at least. “What?”
“I was still in Capri when Tristan called, it made sense to come here straight away. Sorry for the rush! But wait ‘til you arrive, the hotel is amazing. Tristan’s hooked up with like all the major hotel branches and we are getting a major discount with them. Naturally I booked one of the best hotels.”
Nodding, I smile. “I’m guessing you used the company account to book it all?”
“Yup, this new gig rocks! In fact, he’s just hooked up period! Good job bumping into him!”
I can hear the jubilation in his voice. A happy Gabe means a happy me.
“Okay in that case, you can do a couple of things for me while I’m on the way.”
“Of course darl, what do you need?”
Pacing around the room, I am a woman on a planning mission. “Confirm who the caterers are, and of course dietary requirements. Also, find out who is delivering the flowers, decorating the church, music…actually just check with the couple what they have confirmed. I want the full report when I arrive and we can go from there. I can always dig into my book of contacts if it’s an emergency, but—”
I can hear him scribbling away. “To be honest most of those things are already handled, we’re just picking up where the wedding planner left off. But I will provide you all the details. I’ll email you all the info, you can get busy and plan like the fanatical person you are.”
We say goodbye and as soon as I hang up the phone, I rush to my bedroom and take out my suitcase. I don’t really have time to think, I just need to do. I need to grab clothes from my wardrobe, pack my laptop, toiletries, stationery.
However, there is one thing I’m not going to pack, as much as I really want to. Xanax. Not because I made a deal I with Tristan, but perhaps I’m relying on it too much. It’s becoming my go to solution. It’s not going to be easy, I know, but I can do it.
I think…
CHAPTER FIVE
There is a fragrance here, a distinctive aroma of zooming tuk tuks and hustle and bustle that is uniquely south-east Asia.
And the heat is uniquely south-east Asian too. As soon as I step out of Suvarnabhumi Airport, the heat rains down on me like an eternal hot breath. I’m really happy I’m here in Bangkok! Mostly I’m happy to be on flat land again, and in one piece - I’m surprised that I made it through the flight okay.
Having half a bottle of merlot helps, as well as this handy rubber band distraction technique I looked up. It involves placing a rubber band around my wrist and every time I feel twitchy, I pop it against my skin. The redness on the inside of my wrist proves that I got twitchy, a lot.
Turbulence is a bitch, too, and unfortunately common. I cringe when I think back to how many times I had to ask the stewardess for help when the plane shook. I’m rather proud of my behaviour on my first flight without prescription drugs, though. Hopefully, I do better the next time. Maybe Tristan is right – the more I fly, the more I’ll get used to it. The muggy heat presses on me, and within five minutes my sweat has my halter dress clinging to me. It’s a nice change from winter, and after a forty-minute drive in the taxi I step into the hotel lobby, relieved at the air conditioning, which surely must be on full blast.
The Purple Lotus Riverside hotel is classy without being over-the-top opulent. The white marble floor shines as well as the tables. In fact, it’s completely white, with an iridescent orange wall where reception sits. To my right, I see a large, sparkly green-tiled wall. It feels like I’ve stepped into the future. As soon as I walk in, I’m greeted with Sa-wat-dee Kah by friendly and gorgeous female hotel staff. I walk up to the receptionist, her hair is immaculate in a tight bun.
“Hi, I’m here to check in. Lacey Ryan.”
She gives me a friendly and checks the computer screen. “Yes, Ms. Ryan. You have been upgraded to a Premium Deluxe Suite, Level 14—”
What? Gabe booked the rooms, he wouldn’t have allowed this to happen. “No, I was assured my room would be a Standard Room on Level Two. Can I just have a normal room?”
She smiles politely, trying to avoid a why-are-you-protesting look. Typing quickly, she frowns.
“I’m sorry, all our lower level rooms are booked out. Your upgrade is complimentary, by the way,” she gives me a wide smile. “You had a joint booking with Mr. Sasse and the upgrade applies to both your rooms.”
“Can I have the standard room: on Level Two?”
Poor girl, she looks extremely confused. “I apologise Miss Ryan. All our rooms are booked out.”
That won’t do. I’ll find something around here. I just want to drop my luggage first, and I’ll meet up with Gabe later.
“Sorry, I would like to cancel my booking.” I lean in to whisper to her, I don’t want to make her feel like she’s done something wrong. “I’m scared of high buildings. It’s not your fault.”
Grabbing my suitcase, I turn around and get out of there. Even if it’s a massive downgrade, it doesn’t matter. There is no way I’m staying on any level with double digits!
♦
“I’m such a shit, I’m so sorry. I told them that you needed to keep your room but they said no. Not to mention you didn’t get my text until you spoke to reception. I’ll cancel my booking and book a room next to you,” Gabe says. I think he’s literally said sorry twenty times in the last minute. I put the phone on loudspeaker and throw it on bed as I start unpacking.
“No don’t! It’s not your fault you have a freak of a best friend who can’t get into a lift. The hotel is gorgeous, by the way. I’m not letting you cancel the room.”
“What about you?”
“This place I got is great! A lot cheaper, the air con is good and there are a few takeaway restaurants downstairs. I don’t care where I stay, honestly.”
Because everything was all booked out, I had to book the only room left at a two-star motel a block away from the hotel. At least I got something, and most importantly it’s on ground level.
“Well, you must come use the pool and spa over here later alright?”
“Sure, of course. Anyway, I’m going to unpack and do some work. Let’s do dinner tonight, okay? If you want, you can meet me here. It’s just around the corner.”
“Yep, I know the address and room. I can just come and knock on the door, yeah?”
“You sure can. Okay, I’ll see you a bit later. Bye.”
I lied. The air conditioning is sub-par and the place isn’t great. It’s...sufficient, and that is a generous description. F
rom the paper thin single bed mattress, the mouldy carpet, and the lingering smell of curry and potatoes from the restaurant downstairs, I’m not living in the most comfortable conditions. The only good thing about it is the dirt cheap rates, and the fact that it’s a stone’s throw away from the Chao Phraya River. But I’m not here to live in luxury, I’m here to work.
Reaching for my laptop bag, I take out everything and plug in the charger, keen to get started. I’m happy that I managed to get a lot done before I hopped on the plane, drafting two run sheets based on the information I was given. I’m meeting the clients at the church tomorrow to present it to them. Considering the fee they are paying us, this assignment is relatively simple. I’ve done more for much, much less, but Tristan is obviously hooked up with the right people and I’m not going to argue about it. I’m really looking forward to this.
♦
“Great, I can’t wait to see you guys tomorrow!” I hang up the phone, and type quickly what Yvonne has said to me. She seems really lovely, a real bubbly girl who can’t wait to get married and I’m excited to meet her and Terry.
Within the past two hours, I have confirmed everything with the florist, venue, and hotel. Since the family is hiring out the top floor of a five-star hotel, they have decided to do the reception there. I offered to coordinate with them as well, to ensure the bridal party arrive on time. Sitting at a tiny dining table next to the bed, I am barely comfortable in my tiny white shorts and striped top, in this air conditioning that can only be set something barely cooler than outside. I’ve finished my third bottled water and second chocolate ice cream bar, and I have to remind myself to get more from downstairs soon. The room smells faintly of lemon, but that’s the spritz that I have to spray every twenty minutes to mask the smell of curry.
Suddenly a loud pounding at my door has me clutching at my chest, and I check the time wondering why Gabe would knock this loudly. 5pm. I told Gabe to meet me at 7pm. Why would he want to come over now? I stand up and stroll to the door, dismissing the fact that I’m bra free and that my top is pretty see-through. Meh, it’s just Gabe.
“I thought you were coming—” I open the door and gasp quietly when I see who is on the other side.
Tristan, standing at my door with his luggage and that drop dead gorgeous smile in tow. Brain meltdown.
“What the hell are you doing here?” I should be asking myself that question instead. What the hell am I doing standing in front of him braless, my messy hair falling down past my shoulders, my mouth flooding moisture at the sight of him?
What the hell is he doing looking damn sexy in just a black singlet and cargo shorts. Those arms, those shoulders…those lips…
He smirks, noticing my suddenly distraction. “It’s nice to see you, too. Are you going to invite me in?”
I think he’s going to regret that – this place is a dump. Opening the door wider, I raise my arm out and let him in. He drops his lone suitcase and duffle bag by the door and walks in, sniffing loudly. “What is that smell?”
Oh dear, he notices the stench too. Anyone with a nose can. “It’s the restaurant downstairs. Anyway, why do you have your bags with you?”
He turns around to face me, that cheeky-and-damn-sexy smile on full display. “Mind if I crash here tonight?”
Sweet blue blazes.
CHAPTER SIX
The heat must be making me delirious because I heard him ask if he could stay with me. Here, in this dingy and hot motel with the crusty carpet and stinking of curry and potatoes. I heard him wrong, surely. “Come again?”
“Don’t make me beg, I really don’t feel like begging to stay in a place like this.” He arches an eyebrow, daring me to do otherwise.
“Why, aren’t you staying at the Purple Lotus?” Where normal people like Gabe are staying, and gladly accepted a free upgrade to a supreme deluxe room, instead of declining to come somewhere like here.
“Believe it or not, my booking got messed up. I was supposed to have been booked for three adjoining rooms, but it only got booked for two. Since you didn’t take your room, they gave it to someone else. I had the choice of either sharing a room with Gabe. Or stay with you.” He looks at me longingly. “Of course, that was a no-brainer.”
Eep! Given the way my heart is brimming with electricity right now, I’m happy with his decision.
“Oh, that’s nice of you….” I clear my throat, trying to revert to a cool and calm demeanour.
He scans the room, starting with the stained green walls, the drab furniture until he stops at the paper thin double bed in front of him and walks up to it. While he is perusing the room, I quickly straighten my hair and cross my arms to cover the fact that I am naked under this top. Why must I see him when I least expect it? Can’t I ever see him at a planned time and place?
“Gabe told me where you were staying and I wanted to know why you chose to stay here…”
“Yeah, I didn’t want to stay there. I think you might have an idea why.” I look at him decidedly. “I didn’t take any Xanax on my flight.”
His eyes soften, and his lips turn up in a smile. “Good girl. I’m proud of you.”
I smile at him kindly.
“Just so you know, I only had one drink on my whole trip. And I met up with a lot of clients who were heavy drinkers, I had to risk looking lame for you.” His eyes are serious, yet full of light.
I breathe silently, mulling over his words. I don’t know what means more to me – the fact that he wanted me to break a bad habit for his benefit, or that he’s trying to clean up his act because I asked him to.
“I suppose you can stay here tonight, if you can deal with the smell and the heat.”
He purses his lips, happy with my answer. “I think I’ll be fine, I’ve got you to keep me company.” He uses the chance to look right at me, eyes blazing. I blush. “Actually, I thought I would also use the opportunity to discuss with you how you’re doing with the O’Reilly wedding. Speaking of, I have some bad news.”
My stomach blips at his last comment. “There’s no such thing as bad news or good news. There’s just news.”
He laughs. “Fine then, I have news. I won’t be able to work with you on the wedding. I can advise, but I can’t be as hands on as I’d like for this first wedding. I’m leaving Bangkok tomorrow morning.”
A look of frustration emerges on his face. Oh. He just got here, and he’s leaving?
“Oh, how come?” I say as calmly as possible, hoping I hide my tone of annoyance.
“I’m going to Pattaya tomorrow morning to oversee a private party I personally planned,” he says, his voice curt. “I apologise if everything feels a bit last minute, I promise everything will be a lot more structured in the next few months.”
“It’s okay. I rather like things to happen unexpectedly, don’t you?” I say, my voice suddenly husky.
His eyes widen before he clears his throat, looking at me hesitantly. “Listen, about what happened that day...”
I think he’s referring to the time he attacked me with his lips in the bathroom in Singapore. Just a hunch.
“I acted in haste and I apologise for my behaviour. I hope you understand that I was,” he pauses, struggling to find the words to finish his statement, “not in the right frame of mind.”
Is that what he called that moment of passion: not the right frame of mind?
“After Hansley called, I came to my senses. You’re his sister, and now we work together.”
He looks at me anxiously, awaiting a response: for me to agree or for me to ask him to take to it back, I’m not sure.
“That’s fine! There’s no hard feelings,” I give him a fake smile. I really want to say something and protest; change his mind. But now is not the time.
He looks slightly startled by my sprightly response but doesn’t say a word, and he walks over to his suitcase. I wished I could beg him to let go and let me in, but I can’t. I can’t let him know how much I want him to be mine, because he just told me all the re
asons why we can’t be together. I’ve been raised to never make the first move. Mom says it’s un-ladylike, uncouth, and will only serve men to look at me in a bad way. I’m going to leave it in his court, even if I’m dying for him to take me to bed right this instant and kiss me all over. The silence becomes deafening, and all I can do is watch him open his suitcase and scan the contents of his luggage.
Everything is so neat, better than the crammed tetris style packing I advocate. T-shirts, tops and pants all rolled up in neat scrolls, a leather pouch, a pair of brown loafers and a navy tie. Hmm, I’d like to see him in a suit. He would look good. Tristan takes out some clothes, the leather pouch and stands up, looking at me briefly before strolling over to the bathroom.
“I’m going to take a shower.”
Hot damn. Tristan is going to take a shower. He’s going to be naked in the next room. My heart races at the image of hot water and steam running down his bare body, his hair wet, his skin wet…
He starts to say something but stops himself, instead his mouth quirks up in a smile and he walks into the beige tiled room and closes the door. I let out a breath, one I have been holding in for a while. Bra, I need to put on one now. Skirt, trousers, anything to cover up my legs which practically look naked in these shorts. I rush over to my suitcase to dig for some clothes when my phone buzzes loudly on the dining table. Groaning loudly, I walk over and look at the name on the screen, sliding the screen to the right to pick up the call.
“When are you coming over? You will not believe who is here!”
“Oh good, he found the place okay,” Gabe replies calmly.
I’m confused. “Huh?”
“I told Tristan you had to switch hotels and I didn’t even have to guess that he wanted to know where you were staying.”
Even more confused.
“Anyway, I don’t think I can meet you for dinner tonight.” He coughs theatrically, sounding more like he’s trying to retch. Subtlety is not his thing. “I’m not feeling the best, I’ll just have to see you tomorrow.”