by F. C. Clark
A waiter interrupts us. Luke speaks to him, which turns my body molten. The only words I recognise are ‘Dom Perignon’.
Luke smiles. Mr Empathy Sutton has vacated the building, I feel Mr Frustrated Sutton has returned. Please take a seat and allow me to tease you.
‘I have ordered your meal,’ he says.
‘Tell me, do they rent rooms by the hour here? Also, may I ask why you ordered for me?’ Secretly, I know this is due to his frustration, which I’m learning heightens his need to control a situation – and me.
‘I would say no to hiring a room. I have planned your day; I believe choosing your meal falls into that category.’
Bullshit, Luke. You want me – tell me.
‘I may not like what you’ve ordered,’ I sassily reply.
‘You will. I understand you more than you realise.’ ‘Captivating’ is the word to describe the man in front of me… Oh, and completely fuckable.
The waiter returns with our champagne, and pours the cool bubbly liquid into our flutes.
‘Cheers – here’s to the most beautiful birthday girl.’
‘Thank you.’ I take a sip of the champagne, which is perfect. ‘OK, as we’re here with nowhere to go, let’s use this time to get to know each other better, so that maybe we can avoid situations like Sunday.’
Luke tilts his head, feeling slightly apprehensive about where the conversation is heading. ‘As it’s my birthday, I’ll go first.’
Luke’s eyes narrow. ‘I’m not sure this is a game either of us should play.’
‘It’s not a game – let’s say it’s a slight twist on truth or dare.’
Luke blows air through his lips. ‘You know I play to win.’
‘Then you have nothing to worry about. As I said, I’ll go first. I want to know why you and Maddy broke up.’ I take another sip of champagne as Luke glares at me. ‘By the way, I should warn you champagne makes me really chatty.’
He smirks and pours some sparkling water into a tall glass. ‘Here,’ he places it directly in front of me, ‘prevention rather than cure.’ His authoritative tone indicates this is a request, not a suggestion.
‘Well… I want to know what happened.’ I sip some more delightful champagne.
‘Matthew Williams – you know, the fucking arsehole you danced with?’
I nod.
‘Maddy had an affair with him.’
I nearly spit my drink out. ‘Are you shitting me?’
‘Shitting you… Kate Harper, your vocabulary leaves me speechless. No, I’m not shitting you.’
‘So let me get this straight – she left you for him. Was she mad?’ Luke frowns. ‘I’m sorry, Luke, but really… she left you?’
‘I think we’ve established that point.’
I hold my napkin to my mouth, hiding my amusement.
‘I’m grateful that you’re being mindful of my feelings.’ He also laughs.
‘Her loss is my gain. I just can’t believe she would leave you for him. I knew he was full of himself the moment I met him in the lift. Did you catch them at it?’
‘No. What lift? You didn’t mention you met him in a lift.’
‘The night of the ball, we shared a lift together. He then told me I was his prey as he was on the hunt.’
Luke’s fists clench.
‘Luke, you know I don’t like him. To be honest, he’s not my type; he loves himself too much.’
‘Pleased to hear he’s not your type. Do you have a type, Kate?’
‘Yes, I do. My type is you, Luke. No one else. I told you, all or nothing.’
‘I’m a lucky man that I seem to fit you so perfectly.’ He smiles.
‘Yes, you are a lucky man. My gut instinct was right about Matthew. Something didn’t feel right when we danced. He had his hand on my back, a bit too low… He knew I was with you, and he was pushing his luck – very disrespectful. Actually, he’s an arsehole.’
‘Jesus, Kate.’
‘Luke, I don’t like him.’ I reach for his hands. ‘You still haven’t told me how you found out.’
‘I heard a rumour. When it landed on my lap I questioned Maddy and she didn’t deny it, merely confirmed the truth.’
‘No wonder you don’t bloody like him. That explains why you lost it with me in Venice.’
‘I didn’t lose it with you in Venice. You pissed me off, dancing with strangers.’
‘Luke bloody Sutton, you went demoniac on me.’ I smile at him, knowing this disagreement will be everlasting.
‘I think you’ll find that you didn’t help that night… I believe you called me an arrogant arsehole.’
‘You were behaving like one.’
‘If I remember correctly, you were pushing my buttons. However, that did lead to a memorable evening, where my insatiable Kate was officially introduced to me.’
‘Insatiable!’ I frown.
‘Yes – greedy.’
‘I know what insatiable means, and for the record I wasn’t being greedy. You were teasing me, as you do all the bloody time.’ Another question pops into my mind. ‘How did you propose?’
‘You asked a question – it’s my turn.’
‘It’s my birthday. I make the rules.’
‘Honestly, it wasn’t memorable.’
‘Urgh – hello… You’re the human memory box. Don’t sidestep the question and offer me bullshit.’
‘Jesus, Kate… I’m not talking about Maddy on your birthday.’
‘Fine. I don’t really want to know.’
‘Then why ask? Today is about us, not dragging up the past.’
‘OK, it’s your turn.’
‘How do you feel about Harry getting married?’ he asks.
‘I’m pleased for her, she’s so happy. I can’t believe my sister is going to be a wife. We’re both moving on to new and exciting chapters of our lives.’ I reach for some champagne.
‘How do you feel about marriage and children?’
‘One day – I’m not in any rush. What about you?’
‘I feel the same. I want to have a relationship that will stand the test of time, while having fun along the way. I want to show you the world, Kate – allow me.’
I roll my eyes.
‘Don’t sit there disapprovingly; I want to take you on a journey. I’m sure you will frustrate me on the way, but it will be worth it.’
I sit back in my chair, feeling full. Too much crab and lobster, and let’s not forget a bottle of champagne, leaves no room for my delicious chocolate dessert. I pass my plate to Luke. ‘I can’t eat any more – you’ll have to finish it.’
‘Kate, are you happy?’
‘What?’
‘It was a simple question.’
‘It’s a random question. Of course I’m happy – you’ve spoilt me rotten today. What about you?’
He tilts his head to one side. ‘I think you know the answer to that.’
I laugh. ‘Looking back, I wasn’t so happy. When I saw you at Vista the night I was with Barney, I had a complete meltdown.’
‘Why was that?’
‘Well, I thought I had a kinky old codger as a boss…’ Luke laughs at my past assumptions of my ex-boss. ‘My boss informed me he was out that night. I knew he had a life that I – the cook – was not part of, then I saw you at the bar, which knocked me flying. I guess I was just lost that night. The lift doors shut and I cried.’
‘I knew you were trying to escape quietly.’
‘Yes, well, Barney and his lack of covert operational skills really didn’t help. I saw you with a woman – it made me feel sick, and I had to leave.’
‘Zhan’s wife.’ Luke looks concerned.
‘So, let me ask you a question that has been on my mind. Why did you decide to stop being anonymous then? Why not sooner or later?’
He looks out of the window and then back at me.
‘I saw your eyes in the lift, and I knew something was wrong. It was time to tell you who I was. I wasn’t prepared to take a risk by leaving it any longer, even though I knew that it might make you flee. For some reason your eyes tell me everything I need to know.’
‘Do you believe in fate, Luke?’
‘I believe in being in the right place at the right time.’ He reaches into his jacket and passes me a box.
‘Luke, no more – you have done so much for me today.’
‘Please open it, and remember our deal this morning… You have to accept everything on offer.’
I open the box to reveal a watch. ‘Holy shit, Luke, this… this is a bloody Rolex.’ I shake my head and remove it from the box. Luke reaches across the table and turns the watch over, to let me see the inscription on the back.
Kate,
I will always be with you,
I love you,
Luke x
My hands are at my mouth as the tears roll down my face. Does he mean the words, those three small words with a huge impact? I stand up, needing to be in his arms. He moves his chair, allowing me to sit on his lap. My arms lock lovingly around his neck and my lips gently make contact with his.
‘Kate, I love you.’
Oh great, more tears. ‘I love you too. I didn’t say it the other night to make you say it to me.’
His hands rest on either side of my face.
‘I wanted to say it then, but I knew how badly I had fucked up, and it would have tarnished how I felt. Besides, I wanted to write the words on the watch. Do you like it?’
‘I love it. Luke, I don’t know what to say.’ I look around and notice people watching us, unimpressed with my lack of decorum. ‘I’m not sure people are pleased with my etiquette.’
‘Fuck ’em, baby – if they don’t like it, they can deal with me.’ He pulls me to kiss him again.
I stand and return to my chair.
‘Allow me.’ He places the watch on my wrist. ‘There is a condition to this watch: you must never remove it. Bath, shower, cooking – anything you do, the watch must remain on you. It’s insured, so don’t worry. Promise me you will never take it off.’
‘No, not if it means that much to you. Luke, are you becoming sentimental?’
I look out the window as the plane takes off and ascends, returning us to London.
Luke pulls my hand to his lips. ‘Kate.’
I turn to him. ‘I can’t thank you enough for today.’
‘I’m pleased you have enjoyed it.’
‘Beyond enjoyment – it’s been bloody fantastic.’
‘Good. I know it’s your birthday, but I need to read some emails. I’ll work here.’
‘I’ve had you to myself today; I can share you for a while.’ I smile dreamily.
‘Tea?’ His hand gently skims my cheek.
‘Hmmm… Please.’ I remove my jacket and slip off my shoes, making myself comfortable.
The stewardess arrives.
‘Can I have tea and a blanket for Miss Harper?’
The stewardess returns with a blanket, and Luke takes it from her.
‘I’ll do it.’
Within seconds my seat begins to recline.
‘I think you should rest, reserve your energy, baby.’ He leans towards my lips.
‘Luke, I’m not a child. Besides, how much energy do I need?’ My smile is stifled by a yawn.
‘Because of the amount of frustration I have suffered today, once will not be enough – now sleep.’
My heavy eyelids close.
* * *
‘Kate, wake up, we will be landing shortly.’ My eyes open and my seat resumes its upright position.
I stretch my arms above my head and yawn. ‘That went quickly.’
‘It does when your eyes are shut.’ Luke laughs.
‘You told me to sleep and reserve my energy.’ I pull him towards me for a kiss.
He pulls away. ‘Soon, I’m going to fuck you hard – you’re killing me today.’
‘I take it that’s a birthday fuck.’ I can’t help but giggle.
‘Your mouth will get you into trouble one of these days.’
* * *
I head straight to our bedroom, which still looks like a florist’s shop. Luke moves closer to me.
‘I’ll run you a bath and then we will have a night in front of the TV.’
I clasp my hands around his neck. ‘Perfect.’
We move to the bathroom. Luke takes my hand as I step into the water… Divine – just what I needed after a day of over-indulgence; more indulging.
‘Are you joining me?’
‘No. I’ll take a quick cold shower.’ Humour has possessed Luke, but I’m sure this will be short-lived. ‘Also, I have a couple of minor details to complete.’
I lay in the bath and watch the best show in the world – Luke Sutton with a sponge and soap. He knows I’m watching; however, quick is most definitely the word to describe his shower. He places a towel around his waist and moves closer to the bath.
‘There’s a box on our bed for you. I promise it’s the last gift. When you’re ready, join me in the office.’
‘OK.’
A large box sits on the bed, Agent Provocateur on the lid. I wonder if this is a gift for Luke or me.
I remove the lid and open the tissue paper to reveal the most stunning full-length black nightdress. I slip it on and walk towards the large French mirror. Wow, it’s beautiful, with splits on either side and lace panels that run symmetrically to the hem, with two thin straps that cross over and sit just above my arse. Last, there is a matching full-length silk robe. This has to be the most exquisite nightwear I have ever seen. Luke has surpassed himself.
I make my way down the stairs and hunt for my personal party planner. He catches sight of me, and his eyes widen. My eyes fall to his black pyjamas bottoms, which emphasise his toned hips. Undeniably, the tension in the air is magnetic; a pull that has been present all day.
Luke makes his way towards me. ‘You look stunning.’
‘Did you or Valerie buy this?’ He removes my robe to examine the garment underneath, appreciating how it flows over every contour of my body.
‘I picked this myself. It appears that I have good taste.’
‘Yes, you do… I would also like to say you look extremely fuckable this evening.’
‘Fuckable.’ He grins at me.
I smile. ‘Yes, that’s what I said.’
He takes my hand and leads me to the sofa. ‘Sit, and wait.’
‘For what?’
‘Wait here.’ He leaves the room.
Wait, what for? I’ve been waiting all bloody day. Is it now my turn to feel frustrated? Luke returns with a tray and places it on the rug in front of the roaring fire.
I sit next to him. ‘Luke Sutton, have you cooked?’
‘If making a sandwich qualifies me as a chef, then yes.’
I laugh at him, and gaze at the contents of the tray.
‘OK… So who have you been talking to.’
‘On the menu this evening, I would like to present you with a homemade ham sandwich, with your favourite Walkers ready salted crisps, accompanied by a super-strong cup of tea – just how you like your men, or so I’ve heard. Last but not least, here is your birthday cake – white chocolate.’
My eyes fill.
‘Kate, no more tears.’ Luke uses the back of his hand to wipe away the dampness from my cheeks.
‘What do you expect? Your surprises keep knocking me off my feet, and you know I’m an emotional girl. Besides, I think I’m hormonal.’ I place a tender kiss on his forehead.
He takes the TV controls. ‘You mentioned this is your idea of a perfect night.�
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I look at the screen.
‘How long was your conversation with Harry? Have you seen this film?’
‘No, I haven’t.’
‘As you now know, My Cousin Vinnie is my absolute favourite film.’
This evening is complete – no words, no games, just us…
25
FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST
LONDON 9.30 AM
I stretch my arms high above my head. God, I feel deliriously happy. The memories of last night replays in my head. Sex. It wasn’t sex – it was Luke tenderly saying he loves me, with his body. I turn to his pillow and sit up. He may be in the air flying to Dubai, but I have the next best thing. Old habits die hard; he has left me a note.
Dear Sleeping Beauty,
I know how much you miss our correspondence so I thought I would indulge you with a note.
Have fun with Harry and Kiki, but please be safe. If you need anything you have ALL my numbers!
I miss you already and long to be in bed with you… Frustrated does not begin to describe how I felt this morning, watching you lying naked in our bed. They say distance makes the heart grow fonder. I disagree entirely: distance makes me grow harder – for you.
Accompanying this note, you will notice a small rectangular piece of plastic imprinted with digits… Yes, it is a credit card and, yes, it is in your name. It has unlimited credit. Please don’t destroy it, as I will be very cross. That is, unless you would like a repeat performance of what occurred in my office – a reminder for you, ‘lucky it was only my thumb’.
I know you will be smiling when you read this note. I will call you later.
I love you,
Luke… aka Adonis, techno boy, sex god and ex-boss
I laugh at the note and the humorous words of the love of my life. Missing him already, I shake my head, with no choice but to accept he has possessed me.
I enter the hallway as the black door opens. It’s Max.
‘Morning.’
‘Kate, you’re just the person I was looking for.’
‘Was I?’ Panic sets in. ‘Is Luke OK?’