Harper's Fate

by F. C. Clark

  ‘Charles.’ Luke coldly greets him and holds his hand out for me. ‘Kate, let’s dance.’ Judging by his tone, it would be advisable for me to accept. I stand and place my hand in his.

  ‘Luke, I’ve had the pleasure of talking to your girlfriend, who I have to say is delightful. Kate, give me a call if things don’t work out.’ Oh dear. Disrespecting Luke can only lead to trouble.

  ‘Fuck off, Charles.’ Luke’s anger builds within seconds. I place my hands on his taut chest and feel the tension.

  ‘Thank you, Charles, but that won’t be necessary as I don’t intend to let him go.’ Luke relaxes slightly, knowing I am not offended. ‘Oh, and please repeat that to Alexis.’ I turn and gesture for Luke to walk me on to the dance floor.

  This has to be one of the most bizarre evenings I have ever had. These people are nasty; they’re not looking out for Luke’s happiness, so how can he call them friends?

  Luke pulls me tight to his chest, protecting me. I take a deep breath, inhaling his intoxicating scent and registering that I’m in his arms, a place I long to be, yet fear the most.

  ‘I’m sorry about Charles – I can’t fucking stand him.’

  ‘Don’t worry. He was actually quite nice until you turned up.’

  ‘He can be as damaging as Alexis – I will never trust him.’ At last! Does he agree with my feelings for her?

  ‘The only person I trust in this room is you.’ Luke looks at my face, giving me eye-to-eye contact. He must be able to feel my accelerated heart rate.

  ‘I’m glad to hear it.’ He holds me closer, as he continues to move me around the dance floor. Why does this feel so right?

  ‘Christ, Luke, some of these people wouldn’t piss on you if you were on fire.’

  Luke laughs. ‘Kate Harper, your analytical view of life amazes me.’

  ‘Luke, I would fall on a sword for my friends or family.’

  ‘I don’t doubt that.’ His hand moves to the nape of my neck. Lowering his cheek to rest it against mine, I feel the softness of his lips. I close my eyes, holding on to this moment, scared that once I blink it will be over.

  10

  Monday arrives with heat – not only from the weather, but the memories of Saturday. The thought of Luke in his tux caused me to melt, and the awkwardness I felt shutting my front door in his face when he escorted me home. By his own admission, he doesn’t mix business with pleasure, and I think a full-on kiss would count as pleasure.

  I input my code to the large black door. The office doors are closed. Crap – I’m disappointed. I head to the fridge. A note on the centre shelf with my name written on it stares at me: how far we’ve come from the good old days of anonymity.

  Dear Cook – as it is now Monday morning…

  I hope Saturday evening was not too traumatic. I assessed your honesty regarding my ‘so-called friends’ – you have given me food for thought.

  Once again, I apologise for their behaviour, and as you know I do not share their views on life.

  I hope you are free tomorrow evening, as I have another event… It will be Alexis-free!

  Boss x

  Does this mean he listens to me? Still, what I do know of Luke: he generally only does what he wants.

  The day passes quickly, particularly as I’ve been Jerry’s lackey for most of it. A note is all that remains.

  Dear Boss,

  Saturday was fun. Alexis who? I refuse to waste my time and energy on her.

  For dinner this evening, I have prepared spicy sausage casserole – not spicy enough that it needs a health warning, just a hint of heat.

  I have also made chocolate brownies… No need to share with Jerry and Max – they have some too… No fear of mutiny this evening.

  I have taken Tuesday evening off work so I can go out with you.

  Take care.

  Kate x

  Tuesday morning arrives, and so does my need to look in the fridge. Is this what my life consists of? Notes from my boss on the centre shelf. I chuckle to myself. The thought does make me smile, but the note staring at me makes my heart beat uncontrollably.

  Dear Kate… I noticed you did not sign your name with Cook!

  Having never had a sausage casserole, I had no expectations, but I was pleasantly surprised. I’m grateful that I don’t have to share my brownies, although I have still hidden them from all members of staff.

  I will collect you from your house at five thirty. Please leave here early, as Valerie will arrive at your home at three o’clock.

  Luke x

  Two o’clock arrives; time to leave the palace. I offer Jerry and Rosie a plausible reason for my early departure. Even with my rambling explanation, saying their boss needs my help with a very difficult situation, Jerry found it amusing. Rosie insists that Luke needs a normal home-grown girl. However, the words ‘Kate’ and ‘normal’ in the same sentence should be monitored at all costs!

  I open my front door to a very elegant lady. ‘Hi Valerie – how are you?’

  ‘Fine thank you, Kate.’

  ‘Let me take a bag for you.’ I help Valerie with her multitude of goody bags.

  ‘I apologise, as I only have fifteen minutes to spare. Mr Sutton can be very persuasive – he also congratulated me on the dress you wore.’

  ‘I know what you mean – he can be demanding!’ Let’s not forget controlling.

  ‘The photos of you were lovely.’

  Photos, what photos? Valerie looks at me.

  ‘I take it you haven’t seen any pictures?’

  ‘No – oh crap, how did I look?’ Do these events have hidden cameras? Let’s add that to the list of complications: linguistic control, heels, tight dress, and now I have to be prepared for hidden cameras. I think Luke was right – these events are quite traumatic.

  ‘Kate you looked lovely, hence I’ve had numerous calls from new potential business clients. So thank you.’

  ‘You’re welcome, although I really didn’t do anything.’ This new world of shallowness baffles me.

  True to her word, Valerie comes and goes, leaving me with gifts, as she did on Saturday.

  My reflection is truly testing my ability to accept gifts – expensive gifts – from my boss. The dress is beautiful and elegant: high-necked taupe dress that is completely backless, with an overlay of lace on a boned bodice. From my hipbone the dress has concertinaed pleats in the most beautiful soft voile, and falls effortlessly to the floor, with a split that begins at my thigh. I wear my hair in a smart ponytail and use make-up tones that complement the dress. It’s simple and yet striking, which also mirrors my shoes and bag – good old nude Chanel and Louboutins.

  There is a knock at the door. Luke stands in front of me looking incredibly handsome in a black dinner suit, white shirt and straight plain black tie – very much like my outfit this evening, understated and simple. He takes my breath away. His dark eyes penetrate me deeply, leaving my emotions running wild and my body yearning for attention – from him.

  ‘Kate, you look stunning.’ His eyes scan my body, feasting on all of Valerie’s gifts.

  ‘I have to admit I can’t believe I am wearing something so beautiful – thank you for the dress. You look very handsome too.’ I smile. He can’t be unaware of the reaction he causes when he enters a room: a rush of female hormones that react to his good looks.

  We take to our familiar seats in the back of the Bentley. Luke chats to me about his day. I ask him questions and he answers, offering me a glimpse into his professional world – I’m ignorant of most of what he speaks of. For an outsider looking in, our behaviour is more than employer and employee. In turn, I tell him about Pete’s bar and my family and friends. Luke tells me he’s thirty-two – he has accomplished so much in life already.

  My inquisitive nature gets the better of me; I reach across and turn round his black tie – hand
made by Kate, aka damsel in distress.

  ‘I did wonder what happened to the tie I made you.’

  He smiles. ‘If you had discovered it, you would have discovered me.’ He laughs at his own act of deceitfulness.

  ‘Well, I’m glad you wear it. I spent my last day at work creating that masterpiece.’

  We arrive at this evening’s event. Luke has already informed me that it’s in aid of Help the Heroes. He seems highly informed and passionate about the cause, and loses himself explaining how the money helps the wounded, and their families, not just physically but also mentally. We have an open conversation that reflects his honesty.

  The event is held in a disused manor house, which instantly feels welcoming and not as stuffy as the venue on Saturday. We take our seats at the dining table. Joining us are various faces who are unfamiliar to us both. However, these guests appear to be different from those that attended Saturday’s function – they are friendly.

  After the meal, a gentleman approaches a small podium to give a speech thanking all the guests for participating in this evening’s fundraising. He gives a special thank you to Sutton Global Industries for its outstanding contribution and support. The guests all stand, honouring Luke and Sutton Global for their exceptional donation. I watch Luke deal with the unexpected gratitude; it completely throws him off-guard. I reach for his hand, squeezing it, transmitting my feelings for him, proud to be in his company.

  ‘Luke, wow, I had no idea.’

  His hands remain on the table while he looks unsettled by the attention he’s just received – that’s another first for me, to see him uncomfortable and speechless.

  ‘I feel passionate about the cause. I’m in a position that I can afford to help.’

  ‘Well, I feel honoured to be seated next to you.’ With no forward thinking on my behalf, I lean towards him and plant a tender a kiss on his cheek. Even so, my body will take what contact I can get, although my throbbing groin was hoping for something a little deeper – maybe south of my navel. No words are exchanged; we look wordlessly at each other. Does this tantalising creature know what he’s doing to me? Equally, what effect – if any – do I have on him?

  Midnight arrives and we depart to our ‘carriage’ – the black Bentley. I sit back as exhaustion takes over.

  ‘Thank you for this evening. It was a lot of fun. I’m very proud of you.’ I manage to finish the sentence, before a yawn escapes my mouth.

  ‘You look tired.’ He loosens his tie and unbuttons the top button of his shirt.

  ‘I worked until one o’clock last night.’ I justify my weary appearance, releasing my ponytail, allowing my hair to fall down my back.

  I turn to Luke, who has one hand on his knee and the other rubbing his jaw. His dark eyes lock on to my body, watching me.

  ‘I like your hair down.’

  ‘Oh.’ It’s not what he says, but how he says it.

  ‘You’re shivering.’ He runs his finger down my arm, making contact with the goose bumps that have suddenly covered my skin. His touch unsettles me.

  ‘I’m cold.’

  He removes his suit jacket. ‘Put this on.’

  I slip my arms inside, feeling the warmth from his body.

  ‘Thank you.’ Is this the only contact I’m allowed?

  We begin the long journey home. Feeling warm and relaxed, I struggle to stay alert. My eyes battle to stay focused and awake.

  ‘Kate, Kate.’

  My eyes open slowly. I try to focus, but I feel slightly disorientated. For a brief moment I can’t work out where I am, or more importantly where my head is lying. I look up to see Luke Sutton looking down at me. Shit. My head is on his lap, very close to his groin. Shit. I bolt upright.

  ‘Sorry.’ Thank God it’s dark as my face begins to burn, yet I still manage to see Luke’s bemused expression.

  ‘You said two words and then nothing… As I recall, you fell into my lap.’ Once again, he laughs at my expense. ‘I guided your head down, as I was concerned you would hit it on the window.’

  ‘You should have woken me.’ Does my body have no facility to behave in the company of this man?

  ‘You looked peaceful. I would have to agree with you: the only time you’re quiet does appear to be when you’re asleep… Although your head lying on my lap was somewhat distracting.’

  ‘Very funny, Mr S.’ I tap his arm, gesturing for him to leave me alone, although I have zero energy to argue with him.

  ‘Let’s get you indoors, Sleeping Beauty.’

  Arriving at work the next day, there seems to be no sign of Luke. Why am I always disappointed when he’s not here? However, there is a note in the fridge – I guess that will have to do.

  Dear Kate,

  Thank you for your support last night. I did enjoy returning the favour in supporting you on our return journey.

  Luke x

  I smile at the thought of my head on his lap. Did he really enjoy the view? I giggle to myself. The predicaments I get myself into… Diversion needed, as my body begins to climb. Too early to use food to distract me, therefore my little piece of Ireland and the garden will have to do.

  Meal completed. I am exhausted and not looking forward to another evening of work. Nonetheless, I need to leave a note for the man who makes my pulse quicken and my body melt.

  Dear Luke,

  It was an honour to support you last night. Thank you for the loan of your jacket, which has now been safely returned, and is hanging in your extremely methodical closet.

  For tonight’s meal, you have homemade pizzas, one with spicy mixed Italian meats and the other with various cheeses, and a rocket salad. Cold beer and glass are in the fridge.

  Also, in the fridge you will find milk chocolate and white chocolate-coated strawberries. Enjoy – they are yummy, and relatively healthy, so your trainer can rest at ease.

  Hope to see you soon.

  Kate x

  Thursday has arrived at record speed this week. Unlocking the black door, a sense of relaxation washes over me. However, seeing the office doors closed always leaves me with a feeling of emptiness. I try to eradicate any unwelcome thoughts – I usually achieve this when I open the fridge door and see the note inside.

  Dear Kate

  I am very well, and extremely busy.

  Thank you for the safe return of my jacket in my highly organised closet.

  The homemade pizzas were delicious. Your choice of beverage to accompany the meal was, of course, perfect…

  Chocolate-coated strawberries were divine… I am sure my trainer will be very pleased with you.

  I have a business meeting this evening and will return home late; therefore, I do not require a meal.

  Luke x

  No meal. I guess I’ll have more time to help Jerry, although I would rather cook a meal for Luke. Who am I kidding? I would rather do anything for him. The day passes quickly, helping Jerry prepare for the white party in a couple of weeks. Before I depart for the day, I make myself look presentable for a dinner date, a date with the most delightful gentleman I know – Mr Jones.

  I arrive at Mr Jones’s favourite French restaurant, Le Jardin, and spot him instantly, seated at a table.

  ‘Hi.’

  He stands and embraces me.

  ‘Kate, you look well.’ He holds both my hands and stands back, absorbing my appearance.

  ‘Do I? Well, I have a lot to tell you.’ We take our seats.

  ‘Good; I have missed our conversations.’

  ‘Do you mean my endless chatter?’

  ‘Yes, that too.’ We immediately fall into our old ways.

  ‘Tell me, has the shop been busy? More importantly, I hope my replacement is satisfactory.’ I raise my brows and reach for some bread.

  ‘Your replacement is lactating, Kate.’ Mr Jones looks at me over the rim
of his glasses.

  ‘Lactating – oh…’ I can’t help but laugh. ‘She’s just had a baby; it goes with the territory.’

  ‘That may be so… Did you know that a breast pump can be off-putting? I would go as far as to say it’s a potential health hazard.’

  I look to him with confusion. ‘Health hazard?’

  ‘Yes.’ He holds his thumbs up for proof. ‘I haven’t pricked myself in twenty years and now twice in one day. It’s the pump. I find it very off-putting.’

  I reach across the table for his hand. ‘God, I’ve missed you.’

  ‘So tell me – any news with your job hunting?’

  ‘How long have you got? Do they serve breakfast?’

  We order our food and then I proceed to explain my life and the different roads it has led me on recently: most importantly, the Luke Sutton path.

  ‘I’m trying to remember – you did ask me about him when you dropped off the shirts. If my memory serves me correctly, I believe he was quite assertive.’

  ‘Yes, that’s the one, except I would say bossy and slightly controlling.’

  ‘It sounds like you have feelings for him, Kate.’

  ‘You know me, Mr Jones: give me a “do not enter” sign, and I’ll go in… I knew when I found out he was my boss I should have left.’ My head bows. The thought of never seeing Luke again leaves me feeling empty.

  ‘Kate, trust your heart. I have told you: don’t make the same mistakes that I have, over the years. Unless you try, you will never know.’ Mr Jones looks sternly at me.

  ‘Anyway, it’s irrelevant. Luke has said that he doesn’t mix business with pleasure, and I’m an employee.’ I shrug.

  ‘Nonsense. Correct me if I’m wrong, Kate, but that statement has no foundation and I assume that he doesn’t believe that either. You can solve the problem, young lady: resign.’