"Calm down Emma, it's going to be fine. Come soon and we will chat." He spoke. I could sense his tone was haste and nervous.
The elevator took forever, so I rushed down the stairs. My heart was pacing, and my palms were sweating.
What the hell was this about? I thought to myself, as always, imagining the worse.
Chapter 30
You saved me
Emma
I swiftly got into the car with Jake, and looking that he was okay, my immediate instinct made me embrace him.
"Are you ok, Jake? What's going on?"
"Yes, thanks to you, Emma, I am fine." He hugged me back. His arms wrapped tightly around me.
Thanks to me?
He adjusted back to his driving seat and drove the car out from the parking spot, "we are first heading to your apartment, and if you want, we can take a quick detour to the Aunt Amy's coffee house. We can sit and have a thorough chat there. I will explain everything to you before making any decision."
"What decision?" My brows knitted in confusion.
What the hell was happening?
"You will know". He was continually watching a car behind us and the entire fifteen minutes’ drive was in pin-drop silence. Jake was trying too hard to focus on something and was I trying too hard to calm my popping nerves.
After what seemed like the longest fifteen minutes of my life, Jake parked the car outside the cafe. As we stepped out, I saw a parade of black SUVs behind us. I soon saw Augustin and Brett and half a dozen other guard type men step out of them.
"What is all this, Jake?"
He didn't answer, and instead held my hand, intertwined our fingers, and strode us both inside.
We both sat down on a comfortable couch. Aunt Amy greeted us with a warm smile but sensing the tension in the air; she gave us some privacy. Jake calmed himself a bit. I could see anxiety dancing in his otherwise serene blue eyes.
"Jake, for god' sake, tell me what's happening?"
He took a deep breath, and finally answered, "last night, a major accident happened Emma. My apartment's security was compromised. It was set ablaze early morning today."
"What? Set ablaze? Oh My God, Jake! Did you inform the cops?"
"Of course, I did, I only got to know about this after I dropped you at the office this morning. My phone's battery died last night, and Augustin took control of the situation. Brett had informed him I was safe with you at your apartment."
I was shocked beyond measure. I didn't know what to say. After an awfully long pause, I finally broke the silence.
"What would have happened if I hadn't stopped you from leaving last night?" I was imagining the gravest possibilities and thanked heavens above for making me do what I did.
"I don't know Emma. You saved me from a dire situation. We are certain of foul play as the CCTV across the street caught a suspicious masked man enter the vicinity."
"Who could be behind this?" I suddenly held both his hands firmly. I was a bit shaky after the revelation, my mouth lost its moisture, and I felt a sharp pain in my temples.
"Maybe it was a quest for the evidence against Windsons. I think they were attempting to destroy it."
It made some sense, or maybe they were attempting to destroy him? The mere thought gave me chills.
"Did they? Did they destroy it?"
"No, they are still safe with me."
"This is getting very, very dangerous, Jake. I am worried about you. You should get this investigated, properly. I can never even imagine you getting hurt, please, for my sake." I was fighting my tears. I wanted to be his strength, but the traitors they were, they did manage to escape and stream through my cheeks.
"Yes, I am Emma. The cops and forensic team are all over my place, as we speak. "He opened his mouth and then shut it, contemplating what to say next. Finally, he exhaled a hot gush of air.
"I am sorry to drag you in my mess Emma. I can't explain how guilty I feel about this whole situation. I have been selfish to stay close to you even after knowing how complicated my life was."
"Shh… please don't blame yourself, we talked about this, we are in this together, remember?"
He gave me a reluctant nod. I could see how badly he was taking this. From across the table, I went to sit by his side now. I was rubbing his arms to provide him comfort, assuring him he isn't alone in this.
"Augustin and my security team believe you can be a target too, they must have figured our proximity by now."
I was numb listening to him. What was he implying?
He shut his eyes and took a deep breath, "it may not be safe anymore for you to stay at your apartment alone, Emma. I think you should move in with me."
"What? Move-in? With you?"
"Yes, please. I know it's too soon, but I am just thinking about your safety. Please, Emma, think about it with a rational mind."
I didn't know what to say. I could not just drop everything and move in with him. It was a big step, and I wanted it to happen for all the right reasons, not because of some threat shadowing our lives.
"Emma... I am sorry but please..." Jake whispered, getting me out of my trance before he could complete, I answered.
"Move in where Jake? Didn't they just destroy your apartment...?"
"Yes, they did. I have a family home in the city too. That's where my parents lived."
"Your family homes? Are you serious?"
"Yes, since my mom shifted to LA, that home is currently empty and available to move in.
When my father died, we re-instilled the best state of the art security systems there. It's the safest place where we could stay."
"I don't know how I feel about this, Jake. It's your parents' home."
"I know Emma, all this is too soon and quite rushed for you, and I am pushing you to do something out of your comfort zone. But protecting you at all costs is my top priority." His eyes, even though they looked determined, they were desperately searching mine for an answer. He was worried sick.
I took a couple of minutes to process all the information. I was supposed to move out of my apartment for the sake of my safety. This was all so bizarre and scary, yet the idea of being close to Jake in such dangerous times comforted me.
I immediately made up my mind. I didn't want to leave him alone when his life was at risk. "Jake... I understand. Please stop being apologetic. I will always decide to stay by your side and do what helps the situation best."
He sighed in relief and took my hands in his. He placed soft kisses at the back of my hands, "I love you, Emma, and I will make this better, I promise." He whispered.
"I love you too, Jake, and you have my back, no matter what."
***
I felt a bit empty as I left my apartment behind, this place did grow on me in all these months, plus I had the fondest memories here.
How was I going to explain all this to my family and friends?
We then headed to Jake's family home with a band of guards following us. It felt unreal. Suddenly I was snatched off my commoner identity and got straight away planted in an action-thriller movie.
I closed my eyes, and let it all soak in.
"Are you okay, Emma? You are awfully silent."
"Nothing, just contemplating. My brain could explode; the only thing that is keeping me sane is the fact that we are together."
His eyes softened, and he shifted closer to me and took me in his arms. We were in the passenger seat in one of his many cars.
"Jake, is it silly of me to feel sad that I could never see the apartment, where you lived?"
"No. You shouldn't worry, I was never planning on taking you there anyway." His abrupt remark earned a frown on my face.
"Why? What do you mean?"
Before he could answer, the car made a stop. We had arrived. When I looked out of the window, I was speechless. Calling this place just a home was unfair to its grand existence. It was huge and majestic, like a palace of some kind. I was taken out from my trance when Jake opened the door for me.
"Shall we?"
I took his hand and stepped out, "how freaking rich are you?"
He chuckled at my question, "me? Not so much. My parents? A lot."
I felt small in this vast space. I was suddenly having second thoughts about staying here.
"Can we go someplace else, please? I don't feel good about this anymore." I held his hand to make him stop. I slowly withdrew my steps.
"Come on, Emma."
"No, seriously. It's a family home, Jake. I shouldn't be staying here."
He shook his head, and just grabbed my waist and suddenly picked me in his arms, "I thought you knew by now, you are family Emma. Maybe even more."
His words melted my heart, but I resisted him throughout, asking him to put me down, but to no avail. He finally let me go as we entered the huge, no, enormous living area. Countless staff members were lined up, dressed neatly in a white and beige uniform. They all gave me sheepish smiles, totally amused, watching Jake and me together.
I felt so embarrassed. I couldn't make eye contact with anyone present. Suddenly, Jake introduced me to one of them. She was a slightly old lady, probably in her late 50s, exquisite and charming.
"Emma this is Aunt Olivia, she is the head of the house staff, my nanny, my godmother; and your go-to person if you need anything."
"Aunt Olivia." Jake was ecstatic to see her. He engulfed her in a warm hug. "This is Emma, the girl I mentioned before. She is in your care now."
"Of course, son. Welcome home, Emma!" She said politely with a bright smile on her face while extending me her hand. As I took her hand for greeting, she stepped forward and gave me a warm hug.
"Come, let me show your room."
"I will be in there shortly," Jake said in an assuring tone, as I walked past him. We walked through the huge corridors. Aunt Olivia gave me a mini-tour. She told me how Jake's room was in the East Wing of the house and showed me where the dining area and kitchen were. I was trying to remember the way. This house was like a maze.
Note to self - try not getting lost here.
After a good ten minutes’ walk, we finally reached the room. It was an all-black room, with modern interiors and Jake's huge portrait at the back of the bed. The room was like a mini apartment itself, with separate sections for bed, dining and wardrobe.
"Settle in dear. I will send something to eat. Do you have any preference?" I was so nervous; I completely lost my appetite. "No, just a glass of water, please. I am not hungry at all."
"Water is right there, and I will send a glass of fresh juice at least, I insist." She pointed to the far corner of the room and then left after taking my leave. My luggage was bought in soon after.
I quickly changed into something comfortable and sat on the bed, waiting for Jake to come back.
After a while, a very tired looking Jake entered the room. "Hey, are you settling in fine?" The other side of the bed dipped as Jake slumped comfortably
"Yes, I am fine, I guess. I just want to go to bed. This day was very eventful."
"That can be arranged." His tone was laced with mischief. His intentions roared in his lustful eyes.
It was almost five in the morning when I woke up with a sudden growl in my stomach. I was so hungry that it was tormenting me now.
I quickly got up, attempting to wriggle out from Jake's embrace silently. I looked around for some clothing and wore the first thing I got - Jake's shirt.
I quietly exited the room and began my voyage of finding the kitchen. Nobody would be up at this hour. I could make a quick tour, eat a toast or something and get back to bed. That was the plan.
After wandering for fifteen minutes, I finally made it to the kitchen. I opened the huge fridge to find something edible of my choice. There were fruits and bread amongst many other delicacies. I took an apple and a loaf of bread.
That's when I felt somebody's hand shake my waist, and I screamed in terror. I turned around and found a very amused Jake, shirtless, wearing just his lower. He was laughing, looking at my shocked state.
"Shut Up! You scared the hell out of me." I gave him a small slap on his chest. My heartbeat was still racing.
He cupped my face after controlling his bout of laughter and gave a soft kiss on my lips.
"Do you know how irresistible you are, standing here, wearing just my shirt?"
I bit my lower lip, blushing at his words.
"I want to rip it apart and take you right here."
He whispered in my ear and then bit my earlobe, making me whimper. Soon my lips met his, and in the same precise moment, we heard a loud voice, causing us to jump out of our kiss.
"Now what have we got here?" Said the unknown guest. We got numb at the intrusion and nervously turned to see who it was.
Chapter 31
Two to Tango
Emma
"Now what have we got here?"
We both jumped in shock and turned around to see our unexpected intruder.
"Mom?"
Mom? What the fuck! His mom?
Great. Good way to meet his mom for the first time Emma, half-naked while eating her son's mouth. Just outstanding!
My conscience mocked me at the irony of the situation. I quickly left Jake's embrace and hurriedly hid behind him, my head down in embarrassment. I dared not look at her.
"Hello, son. I didn't know you had company."
She paused for a bit and continued, "I just got here from LA and heard hysterical laughs coming from the kitchen. I was intrigued as to who it could be at this hour, so I just followed the voices here." She sounded awkward too. She was as shocked as us.
"Umm yes, mom. Well, this is Emma. Umm... I told you about her. We were just.......hungry, I guess?". Jake attempted to pull my arm from behind him to make me come forward but to no avail. I slapped his back twice, I was adamant on hiding behind him, no way I was ready to talk to his mom in this state.
"As you say, Jake. Well, hello to you too, Emma! Clearly, this is not the best time to greet each other. So, I guess I will see you both at the breakfast table, sharp at seven."
With that, she left us both there, totally shaken and embarrassed.
"Emma, she is gone now, you can loosen your grip on me, and step forward." Jake chuckled. He had a mocking grin plastered on his face.
"Jake? Are you finding this funny? I never thought this would be my first meeting with your mom."
"Well, I planned it differently too, but this was even better, epic I would say. No need to say or explain anything. She saw everything with her own eyes." He let out a huge laugh. He was entertained at my expense.
"Shut Up. Easy for you to say. What if my mom walked in on both of us, while we are in an intimate position?"
The moment I let out that question, I felt stupid. How would that be less embarrassing for you, Emma? Maybe worse. My conscience mocked, again.
"That would be super fun too, well far better than this, don't you think?"
"Get Out. You are such a tease!" I pushed him back a little. I was so worried, pacing up and down, running my hand in my hair.
"What will your mom think of me? I messed it up, didn't I? She would hate me."
"Shh… stop over-thinking. It takes two to tango, and she saw both of us. She won't judge you on this. I know she won't. Just relax, okay?"
"Two to tango?" I rolled my eyes at his choice of words.
He laughed louder, "You know what I mean. Just relax Emma, you will be fine, I promise." He took me in his arms again and kissed my forehead.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, absolutely. So now... umm... shall we continue from where we last left?"
"No way. You pervert. I better rush back to the room before the entire staff is up and sees me like this." I untangled myself from his grip and ran to the room.
Surprisingly, I found it in one go.
I quickly went to the shower and took a long deep bath to calm myself. I was now supposed to have breakfast with his mom. I just wish how I could bail myself out and disappear
from here altogether.
Jake was so relaxed about the whole situation. Today I realised how these things are different for boys.
We both got ready to head down to the dining room. I was wearing a light blue color knee-length dress, and I let my hair down, my curls brushing against my back and shoulders.
"How do I look?" Jake had been silently watching me get ready. He was leaning against the headboard on the bed. The way he looked at me did alien things to my body.
"You are beautiful Emma, whatever you wear."
"What are you thinking? What's with the smile?" I cooed shyly.
"You know I never imagined I would be sitting in this room, and a girl would be getting ready in my dresser. Now that it's happening, it feels surreal, makes me so happy."
I gave him the most genuine smile and went ahead to hug him.
"Come, let's go, mom is waiting for us".
Jake held my hand throughout. He gave me an assuring look before we entered the room and sat down at the table. His mom was already there, sipping tea, I guess.
"Good Morning, mom." Jake gave her a quick peck on her right cheek before settling down.
"Good Morning, son, Emma." She said warmly while giving both of us a soft smile.
"Good Morning, Mrs. Richmond". I stuttered nervously.
"Oh, call me anything but that darling, Pamela or Pam works too, that's what my friends call me." She began pouring tea for us, a small smile formed on her lips.
"Sure, Pam," I murmured.
"I am so disappointed, Jake, when were you planning on telling me? Your apartment was set on fire, and if I hadn't received confirmation from Augustin, I would have never known."
"Mom, it's all under control now. I didn't want to worry you." Jake's tone was humble and apologetic.
"Worry me? I am entitled to be worried if my son is in trouble. I have talked to our close contacts in the law enforcement body. This case will now go to the FBI. I don't want any loose ends in the investigation."
"Mom, relax, I have it covered." Jake persisted.
I will lower the moon for you Page 17