When Fate Isn't Enough

by Isabelle Richards

  He pulls away. “We’re getting a bit carried away. Are you okay, luv?”

  “No, I’m not. Start kissing me again and I’ll be all better.”

  “Damn it, what am I going to do with you? Kisses like that can’t be good for your heart. My heart feels like it’s going to explode!” He pulls back and closes his eyes. He rests his head against the headboard and takes slow, deep breaths. “I think I need to take up yoga.”

  Chapter Seven

  Back to reality. Gavin returns to work today, which makes it a big day for me. Either I find a way to put my own stamp on London, or I go home. I don’t expect to have my life worked out in one day, but I need to start. I’ll be miserable if I just sit home and watch British soap operas all day. Do they even have soap operas anymore?

  Lounging in bed, reading a romance on my Kindle, I catch a peak of Gavin getting ready. My Kindle slips through my fingers and bounces on the bed. “Good God, you’re going to go to work like that?”

  Oxford in a suit… hot damn. It’s obviously a custom job because it fits him perfectly, showing off his broad shoulders and tight, toned torso. The allure of the suit is more than just the way it highlights his ridiculous body. His commanding presence while wearing it, the air of confidence that surrounds him. Everything about him screams “power”. Or more accurately it screams, “Don’t fuck with me or I’ll destroy you.” I may not give a shit about his money but power seems to be a bigger turn on than I would have expected.

  “What? What’s wrong?” He looks in the mirror, trying to figure out what isn’t working.

  “Your ass in those pants! I can hardly contain myself. How does anyone get any work done? All your female employees must just swoon with you strutting around like that. I bet you actually stop traffic. You do, don’t you?”

  A sexy smirk spreads across his face. “Trousers, Lily. They’re called trousers. I can assure you I’m a slave driver. My employees are too busy to notice me.” He straightens his tie and looks back at me. “And only occasionally.”

  “Occasionally what?”

  He winks. “Occasionally I stop traffic.”

  I throw a pillow at him. “You’re an arrogant bastard, you know that?”

  He sits on the edge of the bed and slips his shoes on. “Hey, you asked! Don’t ask a question unless you can handle the answer.”

  I scoot down on the bed and wrap my arms around his stomach. I rest my chin on his shoulder and say, “You’re just lucky I’m prohibited from attacking you, or there’s no way in hell you would be leaving this bedroom. Not for a good long while anyway.”

  He peels my arms off of him, stands, and then kisses each of my hands. “I’m going to hold you to that after the doctor clears you.” He walks to his dresser and puts his watch on.

  I smirk. “Oh, you’ll be holding something to me all right.”

  Gavin closes his eyes and leans against the wall. “You’ll be the death of me, woman. Can’t you talk about football or skiing or carpentry? Anything other than… this?”

  “You want to show me what you can do with a hammer, Gavin?” I bat my eyes at him.

  He glares at me.

  I cock my head and flash him a coy smile. “What? You said carpentry,” I say innocently. “Fine, soccer? You want to come over here so I can show you how to score? I’m sure you’re amazing at getting it in the goal! No? Not better?” I explode into laughter as he storms out of the room.

  “Goodbye, Lily,” he yells from the hallway.

  I don’t know what he’s so pissy about. I’m just as sex starved as he is! I lie down and close my eyes for a few moments, mentally calming my libido. Suddenly, I feel his weight on me, and he kisses me with a passion that literally takes my breath away. I feel my heart pounding as if it’s going to fly out of my chest.

  I pull back. “You change your mind about staying in bed with me all day?”

  “If only, Lily. If only. I couldn’t leave without a proper goodbye.”

  “Well that was one hell of a sendoff. You’d better go. Don’t want to be late. I hear your boss is a real bastard.”

  He kisses my forehead and walks out the door. Damn, that man knows how to make an exit.

  It takes me about an hour to unravel from the sexual tension spurred by that kiss. I flip open my laptop and investigate places to go on my day of exploration.

  While I’m trying to decipher the Tube map, the intercom buzzes. Since I’m wearing fuzzy socks, I slide across the hardwood floors to get to the intercom phone. “Good morning, Willis. What can I do for you?”

  “Ms. Clark, I have a package for you. May I deliver it now?”

  “Yes, please!” I look down and realize I’m only wearing Gavin’s shirt, white panties and socks. If only I had a pair of sunglasses, I could slide across the wood floor and lip sync to eighties music. Regardless, it’s not appropriate attire for company. I rush back to the bedroom and throw on yoga pants.

  A few moments later, Willis is at the door with a big white box with a deep purple ribbon. I open the box to find two dozen long-stemmed lavender roses, a small box wrapped in violet paper, a large purple envelope, and a small white envelope. I open the small first, revealing a cream card embossed with GE.

  My dearest Lily,

  Circumstances have prevented me from courting you in the manner you deserve. A woman as spectacular as you deserves to be wooed. Please do me the honor of joining me this evening for a proper date. More details to follow.

  In preparation for a lovely evening out, you deserve to be pampered. As I am not able to properly fill that role at this time, I hope that this will be an acceptable proxy.

  Counting the moments until I see you,

  G

  I’m moved that even though I horrifically overreacted yesterday, he still listened.

  I open the second envelope. It’s a spa package at the Four Seasons—where else? A full day of soaking, massaging, scrubbing, and primping, set to start in an hour. I guess my first day of London vs. Lily will have to be postponed.

  Finally I open the small box. It’s a new iPhone and a note. Can’t have you wandering the city without a mobile!

  He’s pulling out all the stops!

  I text him:

  Sweetest boyfriend ever!

  Gavin: Does that mean you’ve accepted my invitation?

  Lily: How could I not? Where are we going? What should I wear?

  Gavin: Did you not read the card? It says details to follow. Have some patience!

  Lily: Bring sexy, seductive Gavin back. Cranky Gavin isn’t as fun!

  Gavin: You’d best chivvy if you want to make your appointment.

  Lily: I’d best what? I hate it when autocorrect makes you say silly things.

  Gavin: That isn’t an autocorrect problem, that’s just a sign I need to get you a British English to American English translator. Chivvy, it means get moving.

  Lily: Huh, learn something new every day. Vocab lesson aside, thank you. This was really too sweet.

  Gavin: This is just the tip of the iceberg.

  Lily: Curious...

  He doesn’t reply, which is the kick in the pants I need to get myself together. I search the kitchen for a vase but come up empty. I guess Gavin’s designers didn’t think of everything! I find a pitcher that’ll make do then bolt out the door. Willis gives me directions to the hotel, which is only a few blocks from the flat.

  When I arrive at the spa, I’m asked to change into a robe and wait in the relaxation area. A woman named Nicole comes in and checks me out. She says she needs to examine my skin tone and body type to make sure they use the right products during my treatments. Something feels off about it and creeps me out. But by the time I’m in my seaweed and eucalyptus scrub, I’ve completely forgotten about her.

  Eighty minutes later, I’m back in the relaxation room with a bottle of water and waiting for my hot stone massage. A messenger delivers me another big white box with a purple bow and ribbon. This time, the card is on the outside.

/>   My dearest Lily,

  Please join me for dinner followed by an evening at the London Philharmonic. A car will pick you up from the spa at 6:00.

  Counting the moments,

  G

  I open the box and find a stunning Versace gown. It’s strapless and black along the bust. Down the floor-length straight skirt, it transitions into the most spectacular shade of deep purple. This is the most unique and stunning dress I’ve ever seen. Moments later, a box arrives with a pair of Giuseppe Zanotti’s four-inch heels. The ensemble is show-stopping, and a woman needs balls to pull off an outfit like this. Otherwise, she’ll look like a little girl playing dress up. I never would’ve had the courage to choose this for myself. How the hell am I going to pull it off?

  Before I have too much time to feel insecure, my masseuse calls me back. Another note is waiting for me in the treatment room.

  Get out of your head so you can enjoy the massage!

  The man knows me well, that’s for sure.

  Gavin’s advice is sound. If I sit and stew, I’m completely wasting this experience. I do my best to turn off my brain and live in the moment. The massage is spectacular, almost ethereal. I return to the relaxation room, curious if there’s any more surprises coming my way.

  I’m called back for my facial, which I hope won’t leave my skin too raw for the evening. The esthetician assures me I’ll be in tip-top shape and the makeup artist will help me get ready. Gavin has done the full spa day thing for me before, but this level of extravagance is intense. After the facial, I’m swept away to another room where someone starts on my hair, makeup, and nails.

  After I’m primped and pampered, my gown is brought into the room, along with a thin square white box with purple ribbon. In the box is the most delicate diamond tennis necklace. Holy crap! This is too much! I see why he’s giving me the necklace by proxy. If he were here, I’d never accept it. But what am I going to do, leave it at the spa? Melanie, the makeup artist, puts the strand of sparkle on me and turns me to face the mirror.

  I want to hate it. I want to think it’s too much money and Gavin has gone overboard with all of this. But I can’t. It is so pretty, and it lies on my neck as if it were meant to be there. All of my strong, feminist, independent pride melts away, and I’m transformed into a little girl who feels like a princess.

  I’m giddy beyond words. This isn’t my first black tie affair. Ash and I used to attend functions like this all the time back before Franklin’s accident. But this feels different. Like that was playing dress up and this is the real deal.

  Melanie helps me get into my dress and makes a few last-minute touch ups. Nicole returns to the room and asks, “How does it fit?”

  “Perfectly,” I respond.

  “I thought it might,” she grins. “I’m one of Mr. Edwards’ personal shoppers. Sorry if I seemed like an odd duck earlier. Mr. Edwards mentioned that this was all a surprise, so I was trying my hardest not to give anything away.”

  “Mission accomplished. I was completely surprised!”

  “Well, let’s look at you.” I slowly turn around so she can see her handiwork. “My word, you’re gorgeous. That dress didn’t need a stitch of alteration.”

  When I look in the mirror, I can’t believe it’s me. I forgot that I could actually look like this. For the past five years, my wardrobe has consisted of yoga pants, tank tops, and flip flops. With each different perfume I’d smell on Ash’s laundry, my self-esteem diminished. I didn’t see the point in trying.

  When I was in college, I used to strut into events like I owned the place, confidence oozing from my pores. Hell, that was why Ash fell in love with me. But that light burnt out of me. My marriage, taking care of Franklin, ignoring myself. They suffocated me. When I look in the mirror now, I see glimmers of the woman I used to be.

  Gavin is very good at the woo. I take a quick picture of myself and send it to Em, then make my way to the lobby. The concierge directs me to Lucas, my driver for the evening. He leads me to a black Mercedes, and we’re on our way.

  Em texts me back: There’s the girl I know and love. Can’t wait to hear the story behind this. I owe Gavin one for getting you out there. Welcome back to the land of the living. Your throne has been waiting for you.

  Her reference to my throne cracks me up. My sorority sisters used to joke that Ash and I always “held court” like a king and queen. I never thought it was quite that bad, but I’ve seen enough pictures to know there was some truth in it. Part of why Em and I lost touch after I married Ash was because she couldn’t stand to see the queen bee reduced to a mousey maid.

  Lucas informs me when we arrive at the Royal Festival Hall. Before I have a chance to wonder where I’m going to meet Gavin, my door opens to heaven in a tux. Tux Gavin is a sight to be seen. I’m frozen in my seat, breathless.

  “Are you getting out, or shall I come in there to get you?” he jokes.

  I will my legs to move. “Good evening, Mr. Edwards. I must say this whole day has been quite the surprise.” I give him a chaste kiss, then wipe away the lipstick mark. “I cannot thank you enough.”

  Gavin stares at me as if he’s in pain and swallows hard. “Lily, one of my hopes was that this would give us an activity that would prevent me from thinking about sex. I’ve failed miserably. You look devastatingly gorgeous. I don’t think a woman has ever looked so beautiful. Let’s get you inside before I lose all self-control and ravish you.” He puts his hand on the small of my back and guides me toward the building.

  “How did you orchestrate all of this?” I ask. “I feel like this was a Cinderella day for me.”

  “After last night, I realized you were in dire need of pampering and romance. After some googling, I pulled it all together. Get used to it. You’d best be prepared to be wooed.”

  “Bring it, Oxford.” I beam.

  He kisses my neck, which makes me giggle. “Thank you for not fighting me on the necklace. It’s stunning, and highlights one of my favorite parts of you.”

  “Oh, yeah? Which part is that?”

  He runs his tongue along my collarbone and up my neck and whispers, “This part.”

  If only I’d brought a change of panties.

  I link my elbow through his and we walk through a small collection of reporters before entering the building. Gavin handles it all without flinching, but I’m blinded by all the flashes. Apparently if you are born into money, you’re also born with pupils that avoid dilation when necessary. I was squinting and crinkling my nose, trying to block out the light. From the face I was making, I’m guessing there’s now a bunch of photos that look like I was about to sneeze. Perfect.

  Gavin guides me through the lobby. As we climb the stairs, he whispers, “Every bloke in this building is painfully jealous of me. I’d best be on guard tonight. Several look like they’re ready to pounce on you.”

  I pat his arm. “It’s hardly me people are looking at. You really know how to work that tux, Oxford.”

  “They’re used to me, luv. Take a look around. You’re the one causing the commotion.”

  When we reach the top of the staircase, I causally look around and notice that we do seem to be a focal point. I look down to avoid the stares and let out a slow breath. Em’s words come back to me, making me silently laugh. I stop looking down and strut through the crowd. It’s nice to feel some swagger back.

  Gavin directs us to a balcony with a spectacular view of the stage. I never even asked what we’re hearing tonight, and I honestly don’t care. I’m sure whatever it is will be amazing, and I’m enjoying living in the moment.

  The house lights go down, and the performance is powerful and entrancing. I become lost in the music. My pulse races with the crescendo, luring me into a seductive trance. I’m only pulled out of the allure of the music by Gavin’s gentle touch. He draws patterns on my arm with his fingertips, while whispering sweet nothings in my ear. He’s pulling out all the stops.

  After the show, we go to the most intimate, romantic rest
aurant I’ve ever seen. The restaurant only has a handful of tables. Parties of two only. The roaring fireplace, candle light, and exquisite food perfectly set the mood for seduction. Clos Maggiore could rename itself Gonna Get Laid. That is, of course, if one part of the couple doesn’t have a pesky heart problem. The fact Gavin’s trying so hard to court me while knowing there’s only a PG ending to his evening makes it all the more sweet and genuine.

  We take the long way back to Gavin’s flat, and he points out various places that have significance to him. Where he fell and broke his arm when he was nine. The dive bar he and his friends would sneak to when they were fourteen. The bakery he and his grandfather went to every Sunday for fresh bread for family dinner. Each story is lovely and always told with humor. I laugh the whole way home. More than anything, I’m touched by his effort. He heard my concerns yesterday and did everything imaginable to soothe my anxiety.

  A man who actually listens… He is a freaking unicorn.

  All the distance and drama allowed me to forget why I fell in love with him in the first place. My feelings for him developed during the quiet time we spent together. Spending this night with him brings it all back and reminds me why I came to London.

  By the time we return to Gavin’s, I’m floating on air. I feel as though I’ve spent the day in a fairy tale. While Gavin showers, I throw on a pair of sweats, grab a glass of wine and a heavy blanket, and go onto the terrace. It’s cold but peaceful. I feel serene for the first time I can remember. I want to hold onto this feeling and never let it go.

  Chapter Eight

  I wake up the next morning in an empty bed. I don’t remember coming back inside last night, so Gavin must have carried me to bed. There’s a box and a card on the pillow.

  Lily,

  Had an early meeting. Sorry you’re waking up to an empty bed, but it’s better than waking up on a cold terrace! Silly girl!

  I’ll be thinking of you all day. Call if you need anything.

  Love,

  G

  P.S. Special plans for today. More details to follow!

  Inside the box is a book: Bum Bag and Fanny Packs: A British- American Dictionary.