LOVE AT FIRST CLICK

by Jessica Caryn

  Olivia said. “I really like it.”

  I gave her a mocked look of surprise.

  “Quit it, when can I meet Curious Kitty?”

  I laughed. “I didn’t know you’d be here. I don’t want Merissa to feel obligated to meet my friends this early in our relationship.”

  “You just want her all to yourself.”

  ‘”Yes and that’s the other reason.”

  Olivia eyes sparkled. “I’m glad you found her.”

  “I showed up on her doorstep.”

  I told her how Merissa and I connected again.

  “Well that explains why the hotel wouldn’t let me know which suite you were in. You’re shacked up! I like it.”

  “Thanks, now I know you didn’t come here to see the place. I could’ve shown you on a virtual tour. Where’s Dallas? I’m sure he didn’t let you fly out alone.”

  “He’s at the hotel.” She said quietly.

  “We had an argument.”

  “Olivia what did you do?”

  “Why does it have to be me?” She muttered.

  I stared at her. “I’ll wait until you get to it.”

  “I talked on the phone with a guy. We hooked up a few times before then. The phone call wasn’t sexual or anything. I mentioned it to Dallas. He asked if I told the guy I was in a relationship. I didn’t.”

  “How did you expect him to feel?”

  “I don’t know.” Her eyes watered.

  “I’m not good with feelings, you know that.”

  “Have you ever been in a relationship?”

  “Not since college and that was you know.”

  “I remember those days.” I shook my head.

  “I have more experience now and so do you. We work hard and play hard. It’s about success and the thrill of it. You’ll leave the random sex behind if Dallas is the right guy for you. Did you talk with him about it?”

  “I tried…” She wouldn’t look at me.

  “Are you in love in Dallas?”

  “Yes and my heart can’t take it.”

  Olivia burst into tears.

  I hugged her. “You’ll be fine.”

  “I won’t. He’ll hurt me, I know it.”

  I kissed her forehead.

  “You’re scared, give it time.” I wiped her tears.

  Olivia sniffed.” Oh, hello.”

  I glanced at the door.

  Merissa was there.

  She apologized before I could speak.

  I saw the hurt in her eyes.

  She dropped the paper bag and ran out.

  I rushed out of the office.

  I didn’t see her.

  I asked the guys.

  They pointed to the emergency exit.

  I hit the latch and went outside.

  I checked the street.

  She was gone.

  I touched my pocket.

  Damn it. I left my phone inside.

  I went around the building and in the front doors.

  Olivia turned when I came in the office.

  “Where is she?”

  “I don’t know.”

  I grabbed my phone and called Merissa.

  She didn’t pick up. ‘

  I shook my head.

  “What are you waiting for go!”

  Olivia gave me the paper bag.

  “I’ll call Dallas to come in.”

  I left the building and got into the rental car. I had this sense of urgency I’ve never felt. I put on my seatbelt and took a deep breath. It wasn’t good for me to drive distracted. I can’t imagine how Merissa must feel right now. I started the car and drove the house. I’m glad I remembered to grab the spare set of keys. I unlocked the door and went in. She wasn’t home. I checked my phone. She didn’t return my call. I didn’t want to text her. She’s upset and I’m not sure how much she saw. I wanted a chance to explain. I glanced at my phone. Please call or come home kitten. I realized I should’ve told Merissa. We need to talk. I have to tell her I love her. I don’t want anyone else.

  MERISSA

  Chapter Seventeen

  I saw the way Damon kissed her forehead and wiped her tears. She was upset and I hoped it wasn’t about me. I’m sure I made it awkward for everyone. I drove to the flower shop and parked in a space out front. I took a deep breath before I unfastened the seat belt. I needed time to process it. I locked the car, dropped the keys into my leather bag, and went inside. Gwen was with a customer. I smiled at Lauryn and looked at new floral arrangements. My phone chimed. I reached into my bag and turned it off. I didn’t want to talk with anyone. I quietly stared at the flowers. I felt this awful weight on my chest.

  “Hey, you’re early our …”

  Gwen saw the look on my face.

  She grabbed my hand.

  We went into her office.

  She closed the door.

  “I saw Damon with another woman.”

  I burst into tears.

  Gwen went to her desk for tissues.

  I told her what happened in a broken voice.

  “Well you were calmer than I would’ve been.”

  “I didn’t want to make things worse.”

  “Hey, you’re with Damon and didn’t know about the situation. You could’ve stayed and let him give you an explanation. I know you didn’t want to interrupt their intimate moment but how many of them have you two had at your house?”

  I blushed in embarrassment.

  “Merissa, I’m your friend and I love you but there is no shame in wanting the truth from a man you’ve shared your roof and bed with. I think you should talk to him.”

  “I can’t see him right now.”

  “Alright, you can relax. I’ll cancel the reservation. We’ll get you situated and then you can talk.”

  “I won’t call and I don’t want to go home. “

  “I know you’re upset but that’s crazy. Damon wouldn’t be disrespectful. We don’t know what his relationship was with the woman. I’m sure you…”

  Gwen stared at me.

  “Merissa, are you in love with him?”

  I nodded and had another crying spell.

  “Oh honey.” She hugged me.

  “What kind a woman falls in love this fast?”

  “You wanted him the second you read his profile.”

  Gwen laughed. “You started to fall for him then.”

  “It’s not funny.” I sobbed.

  “No but it could be fate if you believe in it. Now what are the odds you’d meet your dream guy online and him being the man from the bistro? Well I had a part in that but not the attraction you two felt. I want you to think about the time you spent with him before you knew his identity. What kind of man is he? You don’t have to tell me but if he’s worth it, put effort into this. Merissa you deserve to know the truth. If it’s not what you want, walk away. I saw you do it before with Jake. I know it’s a different situation but broken hearts heal all the time.”

  I talked with Gwen and felt much better. We ordered take out and then relaxed. I told her I’ll be fine. Gwen returned to work. I felt emotionally exhausted. I curled up in the window seat and closed my eyes. I wanted to be calm when I talked with Damon. I fell asleep and woke up when Gwen came to check on me. She said it was after six. I told her I’ll hang out and then go home after the shop closed. I searched my bag for my phone. I tapped the screen.

  There were missed calls and texts from Damon.

  AS569

  Call or text me please.

  Please give me a chance to explain.

  I need to know you’re alright.

  My eyes filled with tears. I should’ve told Damon I was in love with him. I’m not sure if I should now because I didn’t want him to think it was a play for his attention or his heart. I thought about what I should do. I had an hour to decide. I glanced at my phone. I would have to talk with Damon at some point. I didn’t know when.

  DAMON

  Chapter Eighteen

  I called Merissa twice. She didn’t an
swer the phone. I waited fifteen minutes and then called again. It went straight to voicemail. I didn’t leave a message. I sent another text. I knew she was upset and I wanted to be there for her. I sent my final text around five. I’ll wait until she came home. I’ve done all I could. I went out to the car for the sandwiches. They were cold but still tasted great. My heart ached. I really would’ve liked her surprise. It was sweet and thoughtful. Olivia called a few times. I told her I still hadn’t heard from Merissa. She had to come home if only for a change of clothes. Olivia tried to apologize but I didn’t need it. It wasn’t her fault. I just wanted a chance to make it right.

  “Damon, are you there?”

  I forgot Olivia was on the phone.

  “Yes, I was thinking. What did you say?”

  “Merissa loves you.”

  “I’m not sure about that, I just want her home.”

  “She’ll come back and then please tell her.”

  “Olivia, you didn’t do anything wrong.”

  “I know. Please tell Merissa you love her.”

  I didn’t say anything because I couldn’t.

  “Will you tell her?”

  Olivia waited for my response.

  “Yes, I planned to when she came in.”

  “Okay, call us if you need to.”

  I heard Dallas in the background.

  She lowered her voice.

  “I took your advice, thanks.”

  Olivia ended the call.

  My phone chimed.

  Kitten

  I’m sorry I turned off my phone.

  I sent her a text. I kept it brief and honest.

  I’m glad you’re okay. Can we talk?

  She called. I answered.

  “Hey, thanks for calling.”

  “Oh, okay I just…” Her voice faded.

  “Merissa I need to tell you...”

  “Please don’t.” She said softly.

  “I should’ve called before I came. I didn’t…”

  Her broken sob bruised my heart.

  “Beautiful, tell me what you need.”

  I pleaded with her to communicate.

  “Do you love her?” She asked quickly.

  “Merissa, she’s…”

  “Damon I asked if you love her.”

  “It’s not the same…”

  She cried harder.

  “Merissa, I love you.”

  She didn’t respond.

  I glanced at the phone.

  My screen showed the end time.

  My phone chimed.

  I didn’t hear you. My phone is about to shut off.

  I sent a text.

  Okay. Please tell me what you need.

  I waited for her response.

  I need time to myself.

  It hurt when I read it. I went upstairs to the guestroom. I called the hotel to check availability. It didn’t matter what suite I was given. I paid for a two day stay, put my suits inside garment bags, and then grabbed my leather duffle bag. I packed loungewear and the basic stuff I needed. I double checked. I didn’t want to come in for something and upset Merissa. My heart was so damn heavy. I left the house and a few minutes later I was in the rental car. I drove to the hotel feeling sorry for myself. I’m glad the check-in was fast. The sound echoed when I opened the suite door. I wanted to be at the house with Merissa. I put my things where they needed to be, took a shower, and put on lounge wear. I docked my phone and got in bed. I closed my eyes. I had to give her time. I think forty eight hours is my limit. I understand why she’s emotional. This is a new feeling for me. She can be upset, scream, curse, and cry. I’ll love her through it. She’ll learn to trust me. It’ll take time but I’m willing to put effort into it. I need her to love me. I’ll earn it.

  MERISSA

  Chapter Nineteen

  It’s been two nights and an entire day without Damon. I needed time to regulate how I felt but I didn’t expect him to leave. His luggage and things were still in the guest room. I felt horrible. I couldn’t sleep that night. He didn’t call or text the next day. I spoke with Gwen. I know I have a fear of rejection. I decided to call him. I couldn’t go another day without hearing his voice or seeing him. I needed Damon to come back. I called, it rung, and then went to voicemail. He probably saw my call but didn’t want to speak with me. I ignored the hurt and waited for the automated voice greeting to end. I said I missed him. I apologized for my behavior and asked if he’d liked to talk. I said it was alright if he didn’t want to but I hoped that he did. I let him know I was home and I’ll wait to hear back from him. I ended the call. Damon knew what I looked like naked. He won’t mind my oversized sweater and knit leggings. I couldn’t put in contact lenses. My eyes were irritated from the crying spell I had last night. I was emotional and jealous over the situation and I didn’t know even know what it was. I wanted to work on it if he’ll have me. I heard the knock on the door. I smiled because it reminded me of the first time he came to my house. I’m not sure why he didn’t use the spare key. I’m just glad he’s here. I unlocked the door. My smile faded.

  “Jake why are you here?”

  .It was cold out but of course he didn’t have on a coat. He adjusted his cuff links. I watched Jake primp for a few seconds. He always was a show off. It was one of the things I disliked about him. He straightened his tie.

  “Merissa, you look…comfortable.”

  He stared at my outfit.

  “You’re still superficial. What do you want?”

  I didn’t care about his shocked expression.

  It was too cold for his nonsense.

  I tried to close the door

  Jake caught it. “I need to talk to you.”

  He pulled papers out of his suit jacket.

  I opened the door wide.

  “You have five minutes.”

  He stepped in and closed the door.

  “I wasn’t surprised when the realtor said this is where you lived. I like what you’ve done with the floors.”

  He walked over to the steps.

  “No, we’ll talk here.” I sat on the bench.

  “Oh do you have company?”

  I ignored his question.

  “You have four minutes.”

  “You should’ve communicated before you purchased this place.”

  “Why, is that?” I tried to stay calm.

  “My name was on the paperwork.”

  “No it isn’t. I own this house.”

  “Yes but the realtor didn’t ...”

  “Jake, give me the papers.”

  I wanted to slap that smug look off his face.

  I read the first page and then the second.

  “You want me to give you thirty thousand dollars.”

  “Well yes and no.”

  “What does that even mean?” I stared at him.

  “You owe me that amount but I could move in.”

  “I lost my deposits on the wedding venue. You didn’t pay the caterer or the place you wanted to have your epic bachelor party. I’ll add in the expenses to move here, storage payments, past and current frustrations. I don’t owe you a cent. I’ll keep the papers. It’s time for you to leave. “

  “Merissa, I was selfish. I know but I lost it when I saw you with Damon. You used to smile at me like that. Please give me another chance. ”

  “It’ll never happen. You wanted Trixie, you have her.”

  “You were always my number one. I’m still in love with you. Our routine was dull. I wanted a little excitement. I made a mistake with Trixie; all she wants is to spend money and party. I don’t want to anymore. I need you. I’ll give up the corporate place, we can start over.”

  I laughed. “You’re delusional. Trixie is about to run you into the poor house. You wanted thirty thousand dollars, now you want a relationship. Unbelievable.”

  Jake smirked. “I can sue you for the money.”

  I felt the anger just under the surface.

  I was about to tell him exactly how I felt.

>   The front door opened and Damon walked in.

  DAMON

  Chapter Twenty

  I closed the door behind me.

  Merissa put a stack of papers on the bench.

  She looked upset.

  I walked past Jake.

  “Hi, let me help.” Her soft voice shook.

  I gave her the garment bag.

  “Thank you beautiful.” I winked at her.

  Merissa blushed.

  I knew it felt like she needed it to.

  I set the duffle bag on the bench and took off my coat.

  Jake cleared his throat.

  “We’re having a conversation.”

  “You can continue.”

  I hung up the coat and took off my shoes.

  Jake didn’t speak.

  I didn’t think he would.

  I took the garment bag and grabbed my duffle.

  Merissa scooped up the papers.

  Jake stood in front of the steps.

  I glanced at him.

  It could go however he wanted.

  He stepped aside.

  We went upstairs to the living room.

  I tossed my stuff on the sofa.

  I turned and pulled Merissa close.

  I gave her an intense kiss.

  She lost her breath inside it.

  Her soft lips brushed mine. “Damon...”

  I gave her a gentle kiss. “We’ll talk later.”

  “Okay.” She showed me the papers.

  “Jake wants thirty thousand dollars. He lost a deposit or something from this lender. I’m not sure.”

  I scanned the pages.

  “Your signature isn’t here.”

  “I didn’t sign any documents for this company.”

  “Alright, I’ll have my lawyer take a look.”

  “Thank you and….” She bit her lip.

  “Beautiful you can be honest.”

  Merissa told me the rest.

  My jaw twitched.

  She held the front of her sweater.

  I forced myself to relax.

  “Kitten, I’m not mad at you.”

  “I know but I don’t want to cause trouble.”

  Jake called her. I didn’t like his tone.

  “Do you still have your engagement ring?”

  “Yes, I’ll get it.”

  She knew where I was with it.

  I waited until she went upstairs.

  I went down to the foyer.

  “I don’t know what Merissa said.”

  Jake smirked. “This doesn’t concern you.”

  “My lawyer will look at the documents but I know they aren’t real. What kind of man tries to con a woman? Jake your relationship with Merissa is finished. If you ever upset her like you did with this, I’ll hurt you, not just physically, I’ll come with all the resources I have. I won’t stop until your finances are depleted and your career is finished. Merissa means the world to me and I will not stop. Do you understand?”