by Owen, L
At one o’clock, Roman comes into the shop. “Hey Caitlin, you ready to go?”
“Yes, I’ll just get my coat.” I’m so excited, my feet are barely touching the floor.
Roman shakes his head. “Happy?”
With a really bad attempt at a serious face I ask, “How can you tell?”
Roman rolls his eyes. “Come on, we don’t want to leave her standing around.”
“Okay,” I say, trying to keep up. “Bye, Kiaya. Is Asher still picking you up tonight?”
“Yes, I’ll see you later. I’m really looking forward to meeting Beth.”
“I can’t wait for you two to meet, as well.”
“Caitlin,” Roman shouts from outside, getting impatient.
“Gosh, someone got out of bed the wrong side today,” I mutter as I leave the shop and get in his car.
Once we’re driving the busy roads, Roman says, “So, Caitlin, I thought we could talk about your training.”
“Okay, what do you want to talk about?” I shift in the seat to face him better.
“Well, I think you have done really well this week. I’m happy for you to join in with my other girl. I also think you have a talent. You could do really well in the ring. What do you think about that?”
I groan. “Roman. You know I don’t want to do that.”
“I know, but you’re good. You could do really well. I feel it’s a waste if you don’t use your talent someway.”
“Look, it’s really nice that you believe in me. I know what I’m about to say might sound silly to you, but I hate violence. When we’re training, it’s fun and good exercise. Once I would start to compete… I just don’t need that in my life anymore,” I say hoping he understands.
“Anymore?” he asks, taking a quick glance at me.
I don’t say anything and remain looking out the window until Roman speaks again. “Okay, how about this then? I’m so busy with all I do at the gym that I can only offer the one kick boxing class for beginners. If there were someone else who could train that class, the gym could take on a few more classes. You know, to take the pressure off me?”
“Are you offering me a job?” I question, feeling confused.
“You could coach in the evening. It wouldn’t need to affect your work for Len. So what about it? Do you think you could do a coaching course? It seems a shame to waste your talent.”
I think for a moment. “It’s not something I’ve ever thought about before. Can I have a bit of time to mull it over?”
He smiles. “Of course you can. Please, think about it.”
The airport is jam-packed when we arrive, and it takes a while to get parked. I nearly leave Roman in the car; it’s that busy. Finally racing to arrivals, I spot the flight board, and we make it just in time.
Me: Hi! Hoping everything is going well. We’re at the airport now. x
“You’re texting my brother again, aren’t you?”
Looking up at Roman, I reply, “I might be.”
He laughs. “You’re good for him you know? I approve.”
“Ha! I can sleep easy now that I have your approval.” I joke.
“I can take that approval away, you know.”
“No, you won’t. You like me too much,” I say as I bump him affectionately with my shoulder.
He puts an arm around me. “You’re right.”
“He’s good for me too, you know?” Then I’m stopped as I hear my phone beep.
E: Glad Roman got you there ok. We’re doing well. Just arrived with Wendy. I can’t wait to see you tonight. x
“Due to the big grin on your face, I assume he replied?” Roman asks.
“Yes, he did.” I chuckle then send a quick reply.
Me: Can’t wait to see you later too. x
“They’ll be walking through soon. What’s Beth look like? I’ll keep my eye out for her.” I give him a quick description just as we see the first people emerge through the doors. Standing by the barriers everyone walks through, I see no Beth. My heart sinks, and just as it does, the door opens again and out walks Beth. She’s always one to make an entrance.
“BETH!” I shriek.
“CAITLIN!” Beth shouts, dropping her suitcase to the floor and running over to give me a huge hug. I have missed her.
“How was your flight?” I finally ask.
“Long.” Her eyes focus on something behind me, and whatever it is, she likes the look of it. “And who’s this?” she asks.
Crap! I forgot to introduce Roman. I turn to see a similar look on his face. Of course I do; these two would make a cute couple. Roman must be a good foot taller than Beth. With his dark hair and eyes, he’s very handsome and just her type. Roman’s a really nice guy but doesn’t take anything seriously. I feel he’s better to have as a friend than a boyfriend. She’s only here a week though, and I know Beth. If she wants something, she gets it. And by the look on her face, she’s seen something she wants. Her eyes, suddenly showing concern, snap to mine.
“Is this the guy you were telling me about?”
“No, this is Roman, Ethan’s brother. Ethan’s helping a friend today, so Roman very kindly offered to pick you up.”
She’s extremely happy about what I just said. Beth glides over to Roman, offering her hand to him. “Well, Roman. That’s very kind of you.”
“Anything for such a beautiful woman.” He takes her hand and winks. Beth bats her long lashes and giggles. After watching them play their games, I can’t help but roll my eyes at this blatant display of flirting. They’re facing each other, Beth’s hand still tucked in Roman’s as they smile at each other.
“Guys?” They both jump a little, as if they’d forgotten I was even with them. “Remember me?” I question, with a knowing grin on my face. Roman has the decency to look embarrassed.
Not Beth though, she just winks and says, “Sorry Caitlin, I did forget you were here.” That’s the friend I know and love.
“Do you want to get something to eat, or did you eat on the plane?” Beth’s quite particular with what she eats, so I’m certain she would not have eaten much on the plane.
“Ugh! That food was disgusting. I barely ate a thing. I can’t believe they would serve that slop. Yes, let’s go eat, please. I’m starving.” I knew it.
“I know just the place,” offers Roman.
Beth strides up to Roman and hooks her arm in his. “Lead the way, Roman.” She purrs his name.
I can see his Adam’s apple bobbing as if he’s nervous, and it makes me laugh. This is not the confident Roman I’m used to seeing. It’s not even the Roman who treats women like a commodity to be used.
Only yesterday before our training, a tall blonde lady came over to us; she looked me up and down, and she then turned her focus to Roman. “Roman, you never called.” He looked at her like it was for the first time.
“No, I didn’t, Lauren.”
“It’s Laurel,” she snapped at him.
He didn’t look back at her, he just said, “Close enough.”
She stood there for a few very awkward moments, glaring at him while he ignored her and continued what he was doing. She looked to me as if to ask for help. I shrugged and smiled back. I mean, what else could I do? She stomped off without a word. I turned to Roman, “Well, that was rude.”
“Huh? I know, right? I mean, does she expect me to get every name right? I was only one letter off.”
I couldn’t believe him! “I mean you, not her!” He looked up at me, but only shrugged and continued unpacking the equipment.
“Are you coming?” Beth asks over her shoulder as they walk ahead. I see Beth’s suitcase next to me. Shaking my head, I pick it up and follow them to the car.
Roman drives us to a classy café I’ve never seen before, let alone been to. It’s up market, just the type of place Beth would enjoy. Looking over the menu, I see the café has every variety of burger known to man but also every type of salad. I can’t stand salad, but I do love a burger, especially a burger in the States.
They are super-sized compared to the ones I get in the UK. Beth, though, would never be seen eating a burger, but salad, on the other hand, is a given. So, Roman has pleased us both.
Beth eyes the menu, a smile spreading over her face. Looking up at Roman, Beth states, “You picked well.”
Roman seems to grow taller; he sits up straighter and puffs out his chest like a proud little boy. If they carry this on all week, it’s going to be a very long one.
The food arrives just as I hear my phone beep.
E: Hi, Simon seems more settled today. Wendy drove here in her car because she’s going to stay a bit longer. I’m coming home now. See you soon, babe. x
I squeal I’m so happy and then feel the whole room’s eyes on me. This makes me turn beet-red. Beth tuts and shakes her head laughing. “Ethan, I take it?” I smile an apologetic smile and text Ethan back.
Me: Really! I can’t wait to see you. We’re just having something to eat. How long before you’re back? x
E: A couple of hours at most. I’ll go back to my place first and get ready. That should give you and your friend some time together. x
Me: Thanks, where do you want us to meet you later? x
E: I’ll pick you up at seven. Thinking I’d take you both out for dinner, if that’s ok with you.
I nearly squeal again, but I somehow control myself this time.
Me: I’d love that. Roman’s here, so I’ll invite him, too. They seem to be getting on well. Can you text Asher as he is bringing Kiaya? See you at seven. x
E: No problem. I’ll let him know now. See you later :)
I inform Roman and Beth about Ethan’s dinner plans. Beth asks Roman to join us before I get the chance, which makes him happy. He eagerly agrees before dropping us back to my apartment.
SEVENTEEN
Caitlin
As we enter my apartment, Beth looks around the small space, lifts one brow, and asks in a way only Beth can, “When did you turn into a ninety year old, Caitlin?” She bursts into laughter.
“Ha. Ha. You picked this place, remember?” I accuse, not the slightest bit amused.
She stops laughing. “Did I? Oh, sorry about that.”
“It may be a little dated.”
“A little dated?” Beth interrupts.
“Yes, a little dated,” I repeat. “But I love it here and wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Beth gives me a hug and doesn’t let go. “Um, Beth. I’m trying to breathe here.”
She finally releases me. “Shit. Sorry, Caitlin.” Placing her hands on my arms, she says, “I’m so happy you love it here.”
“What? You’re happy I love the granny apartment?” I joke.
She slaps my arm. “No, silly! I’m happy you love it here. I’m so elated you got away from Stephen. Your Nan would be really proud of you. I hope you know that.”
I hug her in return. I’ve missed her so much. “Thanks,” I whisper.
“Right, none of this mushy crap. When do I get to meet the guy who has put the sparkle back into your eyes?”
“Tonight at seven. You’ll meet Kiaya and Asher, too. Kiaya is becoming a really good friend.”
“That only gives us two hours to get ready. We better hurry up as I want to be looking my best for Roman,” she says with a wink.
“You like him?” I groan.
“Tall, dark, and sexy? Of course I bloody do! Plus, he smells delicious.” She rubs her hands together with delight.
“You and your smelling fetish.” I laugh.
She shakes her head. “It’s not a fetish; it’s good sense. You don’t want to be with a man who stinks.” I suppose she has a point.
Just under two hours later, we’ve had a great time getting ready and reminiscing about silly things that happened in the past. I finally get the nerve to ask her a question I’m not sure I really want the answer to. “So Beth, have you seen Stephen again?”
Her face turns serious. “No, I haven’t. You have to look ahead now. He’s old news.”
She’s right. I’ve got a lot of things to be positive about, Ethan being the main one. There’s a knock at the door, and I jump up to answer it. “I’ll be in the bedroom touching up my make-up. I’ll give you a few minutes alone with Mr. Hottie.” Beth laughs and walks off closing the door behind her.
I run to the door and glance in the mirror to make sure I haven’t smudged my make-up. My hair is down tonight, and I’m wearing skinny jeans, a see-through black blouse with a black camisole underneath, and some knee-high boots. Opening the door, I greet Ethan, who looks just as handsome as ever in jeans and a white shirt with the sleeves rolled up.
“Hey, babe,” he says leaning in and pulling me into him for a kiss. He lifts me up, and I wrap my legs around his waist. He walks inside the apartment, shutting the door behind him. He presses me up against the wall as his hands begin to roam. I try to pull away.
“Hi,” I mumble against his lips.
He pulls his head back a bit, but our faces remain close. “Hey,” he says, that smirk ever present.
Dropping my feet down to the floor, I remember my company. “Beth’s only in the bedroom. I really want you to meet her, and I don’t want the first time to be when she catches us having sex.”
He groans. “Who says she has to catch us? We can be quiet.”
“Ethan.” I giggle.
“Oh, come on then before I change my mind.” He says it like he’s pissed but smiles, so I know he’s joking. “Hold on, I just wanted to ask you something?”
“What do you want to ask?” I now feel apprehensive.
“Well, you remember a while back when Nicola called me your boyfriend?”
I roll my eyes. “Why are we talking about Nicola? It’s a bit of a passion killer.”
Ethan chuckles. “You missed the important part of that sentence—the boyfriend part.”
I scrunch up my face because I have no idea where he’s going with this. “What are you talking about, Ethan?”
“Us,” he simply states. “I’d like you to introduce me to Beth as your boyfriend.”
I suppose we’ve been together for a few weeks now, but like Ethan pointed out, we haven’t put a label on it. I’d have thought doing so would make me nervous, but I’m happy to say I feel nothing but excitement and honor. He wants me. Me! A smile breaks out across my face.
“Of course!”
There’s silence at first as he strokes a loose piece of my hair. “You make me very happy, Caitlin.” He leans close to my ear.
“Beth!” I shout. There I go again, getting embarrassed and awkward, and of course ruining the most perfect of moments. I can’t seem to help myself. Ethan doesn’t seem to mind, though; he’s laughing and shaking his head at me.
“Just coming!” she shouts back.
The door opens, and Beth comes out wearing a fitted black jumpsuit with her blonde hair up in a neat bun. She sees Ethan, who now stands behind me with his arms wrapped around my middle and his chin resting on my shoulder.
“This is my boyfriend, Ethan.”
Beth’s smile grows huge as she holds her hand out to him. “Boyfriend, well it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Ethan doesn’t move from behind me, but pushes his hand towards her. “Really nice to meet you too, Beth.”
She glances around the room, and she seems disappointed. “No Roman?” she asks.
“He had some things to do at the gym, but he’s now home getting ready. I told him I’d pick him up once I collected you two. You ready?” he asks, kissing my head.
Beth grins ear to ear like a proud parent. “Yes.” I pull away and put on my coat.
Ethan puts his mouth to my ear and whispers, “I remember this coat well.” Shivers run up my spine, and my body stiffens. At that moment, I’m glad Beth has gone back to the bedroom to get her bag.
Ethan laughs because he knows he’s gotten to me. “Come on, we don’t want to be late,” he says once Beth joins us again.
We pick Roman up on the way, and he
slides in the back with Beth, which seems to make her one very happy lady. “So?” I ask Ethan. “Where are we going?”
“It’s a surprise,” is all he says as he places his hand on my thigh. This seems to stop all coherent thought, so I leave it at that and enjoy just being with Ethan.
It’s dark as we pull into the parking lot, and I can’t make out where we are. I’ve already had a text from Kiaya to say they’ve already arrived. As we get out of the truck, Ethan tucks me under his arm.
“Where are we going?” I ask as we walk around the corner.
“Asher mentioned you told Kiaya that you and Beth used to go to karaoke bars and…”
“WHAT?” I interrupt, louder than I intend. “Please tell me you didn’t.”
His face pales slightly, and we turn upon hearing Beth shriek in delight. Oh no! He has, and Beth has seen. It’s too late to escape.
“OH MY GOD. A karaoke bar! Caitlin, did you do this for me?”
Ethan and Roman look between Beth and me. Roman seems amused by my predicament.
“No, Beth. I can’t take the credit. This is all Ethan.” I say with a fake smile and gritted teeth.
Beth claps her hands and turns to Ethan. “Ethan! Thanks so much! You’ll be able to hear our signature tune. Let’s go in.” She grabs Roman’s arm, and they walk off leaving us standing there.
Ethan turns to me. “Have I missed something?”
I start laughing. “It’s okay; I just freaked out. This is Beth’s favorite thing in the world, but I bloody hate it. She always makes me sing, and I really can’t, and neither can Beth.”
“Oh,” he draws out. “Kiaya thought you would love it. Sorry, babe.”