by Young, Alexa
She gasps as I stare deep into her emerald eyes, making my every intention clear.
“I’ll catch you later, Abbie.” I shoot her a wink and walk off smiling.
I welcome the challenge.
Game on.
* * *
I finish work and try to avoid a more-than-eager-looking Jo. Does this girl have fucking goldfish memory syndrome? I guess she thinks pursuing me will eventually wear me down.
She thought wrong.
There’s only one girl I have my eye on, and she’d prefer to have her nose stuck in a Kindle than spend time with me. But I have an idea. I’m going to wear her down and worm my way into her ice-cold heart.
I grin at the thought of it.
The next morning, I leave a small present in her desk drawer. It’s an Amazon gift card; apparently, girls go gaga at the thought of topping up their Kindles with endless books. When the hell are they going to read them all? But if it gets me in her good graces, who am I to question these bookworms?
I do a coffee run for Dray and Ritch and slide one onto her desk as I pass along with a cookie I know she loves. She gives me a look. I can tell she’s torn about thanking me, but the thought of being nice to me is so disgusting she just stares on in confusion. I walk off smiling, kind of enjoying this ‘killing with kindness’ routine. I might get a nice response from her yet.
A few days later, I’m with Gracie in the park. I know Abbie likes to come and have her lunch here, so it’s no coincidence I’m shamelessly using Gracie in my pursuit to win her over.
Sure enough, I find her finishing off the last of her lunch as she dusts off her crumbs, shaking them down onto the ground.
“There’s Abbie over there. Do you want to go and see her?” I ask, knowing exactly what her response will be.
Gracie nods, smiling. I bet she’s wondering if she has any lollipops on her.
“Abbeee!” Gracie yells.
Abbie’s head flicks up from her Kindle, her smile almost beaming. I wish she’d look at me that way just once. I place Gracie down and she scurries over.
“I wunnin!” she yells as Abbie laughs, scooping her up onto her knee.
“What a nice surprise. Are you here to feed the ducks?”
“Yeah, it’s Gracie’s favourite thing.”
Her warm eyes leave Gracie to glare at me. “Oh, hey. Almost didn’t notice you there.”
Ouch.
I frown and lose my cool. This girl always has a way of putting me firmly in my place. The air is practically frosty but soon changes the moment Abbie’s eyes return to Gracie. She’s like a little bundle of cuteness no one can keep from falling for.
“You are looking lovely today, Gracie,” Abbie remarks.
“Fank ooh.” Gracie has on her new red coat and stripy black and white bobble hat.
I can’t help but smile at her sweetness and the fact Luce and Dray have instilled such great manners in her.
Gracie points to Abbie’s hair, pulled up into a loose bun. Her obsession continues. I know what Gracie wants, but I don’t think Abbie will be as obliging. I’ve yet to see her wear her hair down; it’s always in a top knot, like it’s almost a hindrance.
“I pay with hair,” Gracie says, pointing.
Abbie smiles and rips out her hairband, letting her auburn hair tumble down, much to Gracie’s delight. She pulls out a brush from her bag and hands it over to Gracie, who is more than eager to begin. I sit there in wonder, simply staring. Abbie does a good job of hiding herself behind the glasses. She’s got a type of beauty which is not obvious, but I see it, and I can’t help but stare on in awe at this girl before me. I get so caught up in the moment I don’t realise I’ve been caught out.
“Why are you staring?” Her tone is one of confusion, her question missing its usual bite.
“You should wear your hair down more often. It really suits you.”
She blushes and I smile. Finally, a small chink in the armour she wears to protect herself.
“Pwetty hair,” Gracie states, placing one of her butterfly clips. Abbie pulls out a mirror and smiles at the new addition to her hair.
“Thank you, Gracie.” She kisses her cheek softly.
“I know it’s a little cold, but who wants an ice cream?” I ask, standing up.
“Me! Me want!” Gracie squeals excitedly.
“How about you, Abbie?”
She hesitates and looks at her watch. “I only have ten minutes—”
“That’s plenty of time. What kind do you want?”
“Locklat, peas,” Gracie chimes, grinning.
“I know what you want, sweetheart. How about you, pretty girl?”
My compliment throws Abbie, confusion spreading across her face. I guess she’s not used to people actually being nice. I make a mental note to compliment her more.
“Err, strawberry, please.”
I smile at her answer. “I’m a strawberry man, too, something we have in common.” I wink as she scowls, but then watch as her eyes soften slightly. She continues to stare for a few beats longer before her attention is turned back to Gracie.
I order and pay for the cones, adding extra sprinkles to hers and Gracie’s. Both their faces light up in delight.
What is it with girls and ice cream?
“Fank ooh.” Gracie soon has it smeared over her face. I quickly tuck a paper napkin into her coat to catch the dribbles. She and Abbie giggle as they lick away, watching the ducks in the pond.
“This is my favourite place,” Abbie adds, almost to herself.
“Ours, too. We’re here most days. I try and lure her to other places, but this is her top choice.”
“Then you have great taste, Gracie.” Abbie winks.
“You have a great smile; you should do it more often.” My words send her into a complete fluster. I can see she’s questioning my motives, but everything I say is true.
She frowns slightly and her eyes meet mine, almost like she’s searching to find sincerity.
Gracie breaks the moment. “Finish!” she yells, handing me the cone after licking out all the ice cream. I toss it into the bin and grab a few wet wipes, cleaning her face and hands.
“You know, you’re really good with her,” Abbie remarks.
Wow, a compliment.
I thought I was mishearing things, but her look is genuine enough.
“I love spending time with Gracie. She’s my girl, aren’t you darling?”
Gracie nods, smiling. “I lub Lex.”
I never tire of hearing those words; they choke me every time.
“Aww, you lub him. That’s so cute.” She giggles, and it’s the most perfect sound in the world. All I can think about is how I want to hear it over and over again.
“Oh, no.” Abbie checks her watch. “I’d better get back, my lunch is over.” She gives Gracie a quick cuddle, who surprises Abbie by kissing her cheek.
“See soon,” Gracie says, causing Abbie to pause.
“I hope so.”
I take Gracie from her. “I hope so, too.” My eyes hold hers for a few beats before it dawns on her again that she’s running late.
“Oh, now I really have to run.” She looks flustered and scoops up her bag, waving at us both as she sprints back to work.
We sit watching as Gracie giggles. I can tell she likes her, too.
Now, how do I convince her I’m the one?
Chapter Nine
For the next week, I take time to drop off Abbie’s favourite Starbucks and snacks. She’s worn her hair down for the last few days, and I can’t help but smile at the fact alone. Her scowls have been replaced with shy smiles. I think I’m making some progress, until Jo decides to put the boot in.
I’m in the stationary cupboard grabbing supplies when an unwelcome pair of hands slide around, encircling me as she nuzzles into my ear. “Want me to lock the door so you can fuck me on the photocopier?”
I pull away in disgust. “No, thanks.”
“What, are you too good for me now?�
�� she shrieks.
I spin round to face her. “I’ve already told you, I was drunk.”
“What the fuck is wrong with you? Have you seen me? It’s not like I’m lacking in attention from other guys.”
My eyes flick over her. Sure, she’s what most guys would think was perfect – hot body, big boobs, with an attractive face to match. But she does nothing for me.
At that precise moment, Abbie walks through with a pile of documents to photocopy.
“Err, we’re having a private conversation, do you mind?” Jo snaps, narrowing her eyes at Abbie.
“It’s fine, we’re done talking,” I quickly cut in. I don’t wish to be around her a moment longer.
Jo surges forward to me. “No, we’re not. Oh, I see, so you screwed me once and now I’m old news.”
“I told you, I was drunk,” I bite out again.
How many fucking times do I have to say it?
“Oh, well, that makes me feel so fucking special. And what the hell are you gawping at? You enjoying listening in on our conversation? Nosey bitch.”
“Excuse me.” Abbie’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise. She blushes slightly at Jo’s outburst, and it boils my blood.
“Don’t you dare talk to her like that,” I warn, walking nearer, ready to protect her.
“What… Oh, fucking hell, don’t tell me you’re interested in this little mousey bitch. Should I wear black and do fuck-all with my appearance and that way you might notice me?” she hisses, her tone mocking.
“Don’t be fucking rude,” I growl.
She’s pushing me to the brink.
“He’ll be wanting in your frigid knickers next! What a fucking comedown.” She storms off, leaving Abbie with eyes wide, staring at me.
“I’m sorry—”
“Don’t,” she snaps, cutting me off before I can explain myself.
We’re back to this.
“But—”
“It’s fine. I know what everyone thinks about me around here.” She grabs the hair band from around her wrist and ties her hair back up. In that one action, I know all my efforts have been undone by Jo’s little scene.
“Can I just—”
“Please, I just want to be alone. I need to photocopy these for Dray. Can you just leave? I don’t want to talk about it anymore.”
“Okay,” I say reluctantly. I want to stay, to sort it out, but I know it’s not what she needs right now. The look in her eyes tells me to leave her alone, to give her time.
I want to throttle Jo.
God, she can be a cruel bitch at times. I curse the fucking night I got drunk and slept with her. I’ve been paying for it ever since.
Closing the door behind me, I slump against it.
Have I just lost her?
* * *
After work, I head off into town with an endless list of things to be done, one being to pick up Dray’s dry cleaning. I’m walking to collect it when a voice I instantly recognise sends shivers down my spine, and not in a good way.
Dad.
“Lex, I’ve been searching all over for you, son. But looking at you now, I can see you’ve more than landed on your feet. I heard Dray took you in. How are things over at his millionaire mansion? Boy, I played it wrong, but I never would have thought he’d be the one to amount to anything.”
He just can’t help himself, never having anything good to say. The guy just makes me sick.
He heads towards me with a smirk, his identical eyes staring into mine. We all inherited his height and eyes, apart from my blond hair which I get from my mother’s side. I hate being reminded of the one guy I despise the most.
“What do you want, Dad?” I’m straight to the point, already itching to leave.
His eyes narrow at my directness. “Well, that’s not nice, Lex. Maybe lose the tone and remember I’m your dad. Show me some fucking respect.”
“I will when you show me some back,” I bite out.
“I see Dray is rubbing off on you. He was always a cocky little shit. His mother used to make excuses for him, but if he’d felt the back of my hand a few more times he maybe wouldn’t have such an attitude.”
Motherfucker.
“Is there a point to this?” I’m two seconds from walking away, done listening to this bullshit.
“Zack is coming out.”
“What? When?”
“In a month. Due to over-crowding. As long as he’s on good behaviour and keeps his nose clean then all should be good.”
“Keeps his nose clean? We all know the real reason he was locked up, don’t play the innocent.” He’s the one who let his own son take the fall.
The bastard.
“Look, what’s done is done, and Zack is fine.” He says it in such a blasé way it makes me want to punch him. He really doesn’t give a fuck.
“And how do you know? Prison changes people.” I’m scared he might no longer be the mild-mannered, caring brother I’ve always known.
“Zack’s always been tough, didn’t need to be pampered unlike some.” His evil eyes hold mine, and I scowl.
Is he fucking joking?
“Me, pampered? I’ve been bringing myself up since I can remember.” He’s never looked after me in his life. In fact, I can barely remember him ever saying anything remotely nice.
“Oh, don’t exaggerate. You always were a whiner. You and Dray must get on well,” he snorts.
Unbelievable.
I shoot him a look of pure disgust. The guy is off the charts, definitely delusional. I watch Dray as a dad with Gracie and see the love which resides in his eyes. He would move mountains for his daughter. He’d kill for her and he’s been there every moment of her life, showing how much he loves and cares. Dray gives me hope that, when the day comes along, I will take his lead and be just as good a dad as him.
“You have selective memory, probably from not being around as much,” I add bitterly.
“Oh, here we go again. I had a job.” He throws up his hands, shaking his head in annoyance.
“I didn’t realise you worked at the pub.”
He flies forward and his eyes lock with mine. “Less of your cheek. Anyway, you couldn’t sub me some money, could you? You know, with Zack coming out. I need to get him a few things.”
“I don’t know—”
“It’s fine. I guess I’ll just have to get him second-hand stuff, ask around.” He shrugs, sighing loudly.
His words boil my blood. He can’t even buy his own son new things after all he’s done for him.
“Here.” I rip fifty pounds from my wallet and slap it into his hand.
A smirk crosses his face. “You’re a good lad, but could you make it a hundred?”
“Seriously?” I snort.
“Prices are going up, you know. The government, inflation the way it is,” he rambles on, justifying his greed.
“What would you know about inflation? Well, maybe tax on alcohol,” I scoff.
His eyes pierce mine. “I’ll let this one slide as I’m in such a good mood. Now, do you have a mobile? I’ll need to ring you.”
“About what?” I’m not even remotely comfortable giving him my private number. I already know Dray won’t be happy.
“Well, I thought I would pass it on to Zack, since he’s been asking to speak to you after he’s released. I know he can’t wait to catch up with you.”
And here’s the guilt trip.
It’s true. Since Dray took me in, all thoughts about my brothers have gone out the window.
“No, here, it’s fine. Pass it on to him.” I hand over the phone so my dad can type the number into his old mobile.
“Ooh, fancy. Another one of Dray’s perks. Could get a bit for this.” His eyes light up with greed, and I snatch it from his hand.
“I work for the money I make, thanks.”
“Oh, but you could never afford the type of home you live in. Certainly come up smelling of roses,” he sneers in disgust.
“Just tell Zack to call me and we can a
rrange something once he’s released.”
“Duly noted. I’d best be off, got a few errands to run.” He walks away smirking, and I can only imagine where he’s off to.
I fall for it every time.
* * *
“So, you’ll be working the eight-till-four shift Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday,” Dray confirms, setting down the rota.
“I thought I was working the early shift on Wednesday,” I reply in confusion.
“No, we have you down as… See, this is why Abbie should never be off, she deals with all this shit. She never has time off, even sickness,” Dray growls. He’s no patience when it comes to these kinds of things.
“Well, she’s maybe not well,” I lie. I know the exact reason she’s pulled a sickie, and my stomach tightens at the thought.
“She didn’t sound sick on the phone,” Dray huffs, not convinced.
“Well, she is entitled to a sick day.” Regardless of whether or not she’s faking.
“Something’s up. I get the feeling she was lying to me. She was practically babbling on the phone. Do you know anything?” His steely gaze meets mine.
“Me? Why would I know anything?” I ask in alarm.
Keep it together, Lex.
His eyes narrow, scrutinising my face. “Because you’re looking shifty.”
“I’m not looking like anything.”
Fuck.
Can he read minds, too?
“Yes, you are. Do not tell me you’ve got something to do with her being off. She’s the best fucking worker I have. If you’ve done anything to offend her…” he growls looking completely pissed.
Shit.
I bite my lip and let out a deep sigh. “I didn’t, but Jo said some mean things.”
Dray’s eyes widen. “And how the hell is she involved in this? They barely even know each other.”
“Well, it was—”
“What? You? Tell me what the hell is going on,” he barks, making me flinch.
“I slept with Jo,” I mumble, my eyes falling to the ground to avoid his glacial stare.
He leaps up, slamming his hands against the desk, and I stumble back in fright. “What the hell have I told you about shitting on your own doorstep? You work with her, why the fucking hell would you make things awkward?”