“Never mind,” he says. “Who’s this?” he says, waving his hand at me. “Such beauty as yours should be put on canvas,” he adds.
My mouth pops open in shock, Tristan chuckles in response.
“Harry!” Sophia scolds. “Stop flirting.”
“You know this young lady?” He asks Tristan.
“I should hope so,” Tristan says, placing his arm around my waist. “Harry Leveson-Gower I am pleased to present to you my fiancé, Miss Coral Stevens.”
“You’re getting married?” He croaks. Tristan laughs and nods. “Finally!” He throws his hand up as he says this, gesturing to Sophia.
“Oh Harry,” she scolds. “Where are your manners?”
“You know, if I were a hundred years younger, you’d have some competition,” he tells Tristan. Ok, he sounds like Bob!
Nevertheless, I'm shocked again, and embarrassed. This is this his wife next to him, and he’s trying to flirt with me? This is funny!
“You’d have to fight me for her,” Tristan cajoles. He and Tristan obviously know each other very well.
“Where have you been?” Harry asks Tristan.
Tristan smiles. “I know. I haven’t been around much since...” He trails off, his cheeks flaming.
“We heard darling, and we are both so sorry,” Sophia says, clutching his hand. “Did you get our flowers?”
“Yes, I did thank you,” Tristan says.
“That’s good darling.” Sophia nods.
“Well, we’ll come and see you both in a little while,” Tristan says, glancing back at the queue of people behind us.
“Yes darling, please do,” Sophia replies.
Tristan smiles to them both, and we graciously glide out of the way of the other guests, patiently waiting in line...
TRISTAN HAS BEEN AMAZING THIS EVENING. I was so nervous about coming here, but he’s made the whole evening feel effortless. How does he do that?
“Happy?” He asks for the tenth time tonight.I smile a ridiculous smile at him, his answering grin is breathtaking.“Want to go?” I nod shyly. I want my man. I want to get him back to the hotel and I want to get him very naked. “Ok,” he chuckles.
“What are you laughing at?” I ask, feigning innocence.
“That wicked look in your eyes, I can tell what you’re thinking and I couldn’t think of a better way to end the evening – But can I leave you alone for one moment?” He adds.
“Alone?” I question.
“Yes, there’s an associate I need to talk to and I’d rather do that alone.”
“Why?” I laugh.
“Because he’s not going to like what I say to him,” he says.
“Stirring up trouble Mr Freeman, you should be ashamed of yourself,” I tease.
Tristan smiles, then leans in and softly pecks my cheek. “Back in a moment,” he whispers in my ear, just as he runs a cool soft finger delicately down my neck. Everything south of my navel clenches in delight. Is the room spinning?
“Don't tempt me,” I growl. I really would pounce on him, not giving a damn what others think.
“Ok, I'm going!” He chuckles, and I watch in appreciation as my man strides across the room.
“He’s a catch alright.” A woman’s voice says.
I spin around and see Sophia standing behind me. “Hello Sophia,” I smile shyly at her.
“It’s Coral isn’t it?” She asks.
“Yes.” I smile again and hold out my hand, she places her hand in mine and we shake. I’m surprised, her handshake is firm for an older lady, then I panic. She’s from another solicitors, the competition. Shit! Should I be talking to her?
“It’s nice to be able to finally talk to you alone Coral, I’ve been watching you all evening,” she says.I swallow hard – Why would she be doing that?
“Oh...ok,” I say, trying not to frown.
“It’s so refreshing to see a couple who actually like each other, as you and Tristan are clearly displaying.”What do I say to that?
“Maybe it’s because we are still new to one another,” I joke.
“Oh no, I’ve been around a long time, you two seem complete with one another, and genuinely happy.”
I smile at her. “Yes, we are,” I say feeling shy and take a sip of water.
“It’s very refreshing to see,” she continues. “This is a cut throat business. I’ve seen so many couples pass through here, only to be ripping each other’s heads off with divorce proceedings a year later.”
“Really?” I squeak.
She laughs at my surprised reaction. “Yes, unfortunately, but tell me Coral, how did you meet Tristan?”Crap, how do I explain this one?
“Have you heard of Garland & Associates in Brighton?”
“John and Joyce,” she nods. “So sad, he was a lovely man,” she muses.
“Yes, he was,” I say, swallowing hard.I miss you John...
“You knew him?” she questions.
“Joyce is my mother’s best friend, so yes, John and Joyce were like an Aunt and Uncle to me.”
“Oh, I see...I’m sorry dear, I didn’t mean to bring it up.” I can see she means it.
“No please...it’s ok, I don't mind talking about it. But in answer to your question, I used to work for Joyce, that’s how I met Tristan. He took over the company.”
“Ah yes he did, I remember hearing about that.”
“Sophia...” A croaky male voice calls.
We both turn in unison and see Harry standing behind us. I feel Tristan approaching, so it doesn’t make me jump when he slides his arm around my waist.
“Tristan, I was just saying to Coral how happy you both look.” Sophia says.
Tristan gazes adoringly at me, making me feel shy. “She makes me very happy,” he tells her.
“Yes, darling I can see that, and I’m so pleased for you. Well, it’s late. Come Harry, we should get you home.” Sophia says.
I look at the clock on the wall, it’s only 8pm. Maybe he goes to bed early?
“Nonsense,” he argues. “I haven’t seen this young whippersnapper in a long time,” he says pointing to Tristan. “We need to catch up, and I need to get to know this beautiful young lady a little more too,” he adds.
Sophia rolls her eyes at him. Tristan and I grin at one another. This old guy is a scream!
“Shall we?” Tristan gestures, he’s waiting to see if I'm happy with this which I am, so I nod and place my hand in the crook of his arm.
“Oh no you don't,” Harry says, holding his arm out to me.
Tristan laughs, takes my hand and places it on Harry’s arm.“I'm watching you,” he teases Harry.
“You need to,” Harry jokes and we head over to his table...
I AM STOOD AT THE BAR WAITING FOR TRISTAN TO FINISH TALKING TO AN ASSOCIATE. I feel exhausted. After speaking to so many people, and dancing the night away with Tristan – and Harry – to Tristan and Sophia’s amused expressions. I am definitely ready to leave.
I actually feel quite proud of myself. I haven’t freaked out, or felt uncomfortable once, but that probably has something to do with Tristan’s constant presence. I sigh blissfully and turn around to place my empty glass on the bar. I’m instantly aware of a man’s body that’s stood a little too closely for my liking. I glance up at him and almost faint.
No! Not you...this is not happening! – I feel paralysed with fear. My heart has jumped into my mouth and I can't breathe; and I can't look away either.
His evil black eyes stare down at me as a sickening smile spreads across his face. I didn’t think I would ever see those eyes again – Not in this lifetime.
“I remember you,” he whispers.My whole body shudders as I hear his words. I want to scream at the top of my lungs, but I can't – not here. I squeeze my eyes shut for a moment, trying to block him out. Tristan, please hurry back!
He moves closer to me, I take a step to the side, trying to put some distance between us, but he discreetly grabs hold of my elbow stopping me. No!
&nb
sp; I’m instantly transported back in time – I’m five years old again – My heart is palpitating, my hands are sweating; and my legs are uncontrollably shaking.
I feel like I’m going to pass out – Tristan...where are you?
“Let go of me,” I growl.
He laughs, an evil twisted laugh, my stomach twists and rolls in response. Oh god!I think I’m going to be sick! – Bile rises into my throat. I swallow hard and try to stay focused.
I feel his hand touch the top of my shoulder. “You’re still so shy,” he whispers. “And your skin...still so soft,” he adds, tracing his finger down my forearm.
“Don't touch me,” I snap, pulling my arm out of his reach.
His smile widens. He takes a step to the side so he’s stood right in front of me. I take a step to the right, I need to get away from him, but he mimics my movement, effectively blocking me from running away from him.
“Come on Coral,” he cajoles.
I snap my head up and glare at him – He remembers my name?
“Stay away from me.” I threaten, tears pooling in my eyes.
He laughs again and takes a step to the side. “Vodka, on the rocks.” He snaps at the barman.
I want to run, but I feel like my feet are encased in cement. Come on Coral, you can do this, get away from him!
My eyes frantically dart around the room, hoping and praying that I can catch Tristan’s eye and he can save me, get me away from this evil, twisted man. But the fear quickly turns to anger, I can feel the adrenalin pumping through my veins, getting ready for fight or flight.
I grit my teeth and try to control the rage building within me – I swear if I had a gun I would shoot this man, kill him dead, right here in front of all these people.
I close my eyes and take a deep rasping breath...Tristan, help me!
Taking a step to the side, I shakily take a step forward – My leg trembles, and I almost fall.
He reaches out and takes hold of my elbow. “Leaving so soon?” He smirks.
“Let go of me.” I yank my arm out of his hold. I try to take another step forward, but my legs feel like jelly – Fuck! Come on legs, work!
He starts laughing, evidently finding my suffering amusing. I look up and see Tristan in the corner of the room. I mentally beg him to look my way, and almost as though he can telepathically hear me, he turns his head and our eyes meet.
He smiles his enigmatic smile at me, and winks. Then his face falls as he takes in my expression. He says something to the man he’s talking to, then begins quickly striding over to me, locking eyes with me the whole time – Thank god!
“Who’s that?” The evil fuck asks.
“My fiancé,” I snap.
“Tristan Freeman is your fiancé?” He says, sounding surprised and I have to say a little worried.
“Yes.” I snap, keeping my eyes fixed on Tristan – And he’s going to fucking kill you when I tell him who you are – I turn and look up at him.“You’re a dead man,” I threaten.
He instantly loses the grin, and I can see the fear behind his black eyes.
“Coral?” Tristan says as he reaches me. “You ok?” He cocks his head to the side, trying to read my expression.“Simon.” Tristan says, nodding to the man.So that’s his name!
“Tristan.”Simon reaches his hand out and they shake – I think I’m going to be sick.I need to get us both out of here – now!
I seem to have lost the power of speech! Fuck! The room is spinning, my ears are ringing and my stomach is doing summersaults.
“Tristan, it’s been a while,” he says. “Sorry to hear about your folks,” he adds.
“Thanks.” Tristan turns and frowns down at me.
“Heard you branched out,” Simon says.
“Yes, down’ – “Tristan” I interrupt, finally finding my voice. I do not want him to tell this fucker where we live. “Escort me to the ladies?” I whimper.
“Of course” he says. Holding his arm out for me, I wrap my hand around his strong forearm and grip tightly. Tristan places his other hand over mine and squeezes it once, then he starts to walk us forward, but my legs still aren’t working properly so I stumble slightly.
“Coral?” Tristan stops, wraps his arm around my waist to steady me, and guides us out of the great room.
We silently head down the hallway until we reach the restrooms – I feel faint.
“Baby, what’s wrong?” He asks, gently stroking my cheek.
I take a deep breath in, trying to work out what to do. This function is important to Tristan, I know that, on the one hand I want to be here, support him, I don't want to let him down, but on the other I want to run screaming from the building.I stare blankly ahead, trying to think of the right thing to do – I could feign sickness?
Tristan can stay, I can go back to the hotel room, tell him when he gets back? But I know, deep down inside that I don't want to be alone, and if I tell him the truth – like right now – he won't be able to help himself, I know he won't. He’ll charge in there without thinking of the consequences and beat that fucker to a pulp, I know he will. And where will that get us?
Tristan would be charged with GBH, and possibly have a prison sentence, he could lose everything he’s built, his businesses, his homes?
No, I shake my head at myself– I can't tell him here, it will have to be later, when we are back in Cornwall and Tristan can't get near him. He’ll have time to calm down, think about things logically. But then again, I think I need to be away from Tristan, he’s going to know something’s wrong, I know he will, and he can read me like a book!
I swallow hard. How do I tell him that the man he just shook hands with, is in-fact, the man that sexually abused me all those years ago?
“Coral, come back to me baby,” He says with wide, worried eyes.
“Tristan,” I whisper. “I’m so sorry, but I think I need to go back to the hotel.”
“Are you sick?” He asks, looking extremely worried.
“Not feeling a hundred percent,” I murmur, my stomach twisting into knots.
“Do we need to head over to A&E?” He asks, a little frantically.
“No baby, I think I just need to lie down, I feel a little dizzy that’s all. Lots of talking and dancing, it’s kind of taken it out of me. It’s nothing to worry about.”
He pulls me to him and kisses my forehead.“Let’s go back to the hotel,” he says.
“No, you stay. I know how important this is to you, I’m just sorry I can't stay,” I argue.
“No Coral’ – “Tristan, for once in your life will you just do as I ask. I want you to stay, I’ll be fine, Stuart can take me back to the hotel,” I plead. Tristan doesn’t look convinced.“Please baby, stay. Harry and Sophia have been waiting to speak to you again. I can ask Stuart to stay in the room with me if that puts your mind at rest,” I add.
Tristan sighs heavily as he rubs his hands up and down my arms. “No. I don't like leaving you,” he says. “I’ll make my excuses to Sophia and Harry.”
“Tristan stay,” I say again, trying my best to give him my warmest, most convincing smile.
“There are a few more associates I need to catch up with,” he ponders aloud.
I reach up onto my tip-toes and plant a soft kiss on his cheek.“Take as long as you need baby, I’ll wait up for you.” I manage to smile again. “Oh, and if you like, invite Harry and Sophia to the wedding,” I add.
“You wouldn’t mind?” He asks.
“Of course not, they’re a lovely couple,” I say.
“Alright.” He gazes down at me, strokes my cheek, then frowns deeply at me. “Are you being honest with me? You would tell me if there was something more?” He asks.
My stomach flips over, I don't want to lie to him but I don't want him to see I’m hiding something either.
“Tristan, let’s not rehash that argument. I should have told you what was going on over the last few days, I know that. I’m just tired.” I say, cringing inside because I’m lying to him
again. But I know it’s for his own good, and mine. I don't want to be spend the next ten years visiting my fiancé in prison.
“Sorry,” he says. “I can't help worrying about you,” he adds smiling down at me with his deep dimpled smile.
“Don't be, it’s one of the many things I love about you,” I say, stroking his soft cheek.
His enigmatic grin broadens, flashing his perfect teeth. “So you’ll wait up for me?” He croaks in his ultra sexy voice.
“Yes,” I whisper as seductively as I can and plant a soft kiss on the side of his neck, right at the spot that drives him wild. A deep, husky growl reverberates from deep within his throat, it has never failed to instantly turn me on. So I’m shocked, but not surprised when I feel no reaction.
Right now, I just feel totally numb, head to toe – numb.
“Get back to the function baby, I’ll call Stuart,” I say.
“No.” Tristan pulls his mobile out from his pocket and calls Stuart, when he’s finished he slips his mobile back inside his trouser pocket. “He’ll be here in five,” he adds and leans down to kiss me.As his lips softly meet mine, I hear his breath catch, I usually have the same reaction, but again, there’s just nothing – Now I’m actually starting to freak out about us.
Are we ok? Am I ok?
I part my lips, giving his tongue access to my mouth, hoping it will stir some kind of reaction within me, but when his tongue touches mine, I feel myself tense up – I can't do this!
Shit! What if there is something wrong with me and I don’t feel the way I used to feel?
“Hey.” Tristan stops kissing me, tilts my head back and gazes down at me with dark, worried eyes. “You must be feeling rough,” he says. “Normally I kiss you and you pounce on me like a wild woman,” he adds jokingly, but I can tell it’s a mask, hiding his fear.
“Tristan, I still feel the same about you, I just feel....” I close my eyes and try to think of something to placate him. “Woozy,” I add.
Tristan frowns, then places his hand against my forehead. “You do feel a little too warm,” he says.
“I’ll be fine” I reiterate. He frowns and shakes his head slightly, then Tristan suddenly looks up over my head, I turn around and see Stuart stood waiting for us.
Darkest Fears Trilogy: Fallen For Him / Freed By Him / Forever With Him Page 123