Fated Desires
Copyright © 2020 B.J Rosethorn
When an aspiring lawyer and brilliant mind finds herself intertwined in a traumatic event. The unusual happenings around her just may save her life. Caught between a world of reality and a fairy tale dream land. Confusion is just the tip of the iceberg when her worlds start to collide. The lies of those around her come to the surface. Will she be able to see through the facades or subsume to a new reality?
Part One Awoken
Available on Wattpad - Free
Forty-Two chapter and over 71,000 enticing words.
Sneak Peak
Chapter 1
I’m running full tilt through prickly trees. Hard ground beneath me vibrates through every inch as I trek forward. My pace extreme and my breath hitching. I can hear the sticks and leaves crunch under me as I continue through to the ounce of light in the distance.
What am I running from? I think to myself.
I have no memory before this.
I don’t have time to try and remember either. Adrenaline pumps through me as I sprint towards the spec of light. I am loosing velocity and my chest burns. My legs want to quit but I must push I am almost there.
Pushing through the last bit I come to a halt as the woods end and the moonlight hits me. My chest still on fire I look behind me but see nothing.
It's dark but it feels so comforting here, the shimmer of light creates a magical glow within the darkness of trees. It smells like pine, cedar and raspberries? Delicious I think as I’m pulled farther into the clearing. Wait how did I get here, last thing I remember I was running, but running from what?
I start to look around taking in more of the scenery and alerting more of my senses. The edges of my vision are foggy but this is definitely a forest. A beautiful hidden away treasure the thought enters my mind again. Where am I? How did I get here? Before I can investigate as usual, I see somebody. I'm not alone here, my breath quickens, heart rate speeding up. I'm locked on the figure when I hear a snap.
I jolt my head to the right there is another silhouette. What is happening I think to myself. Anxiety hitting max I can't focus or think, my heartbeat thumping in my ears. My palms are sweating and I feel like I am on fire.
A third being enters the sparkling clearing. I could see this one clear as day, the beauty of which I never knew existed. This wasn't what I expected to be looking at, an intense electricity in the air I’ve never felt before. He seemed to glow and his turquoise eyes popped, pulling me deeper even from this distance. I wasn't sure if I could pull my eyes away. His face was perfectly etched, defined bone structure like a male model. I made my gaze leave his face to see who stood before me when I realized he wasn't standing, wings flowed from behind his back.
I didn’t know what to expect seeing wings on a person but these were breathtaking. I couldn't exactly tell from where I stood but they seemed more magnificent than his eyes, opal shimmering wings, they looked diamond covered sparkling with intensity. The array of colours the opal effect produced stunned and amazed me. Left open mouthed and gawking at this absolutely god like being I could still sense the two behind me.
After a moment I was rudely snapped back to reality. This is not the time or place for wet thoughts. I must admit attraction felt so nice though. I longed for it. Yearned for it deep in my soul for this feeling, this passion.
Rage and anxiety bubbled over, no matter how strongly I felt pulled to this winged being I knew one thing I wasn’t safe.
Why was this happening?
What was happening?
Who was this man?
How did he jump start my dead libido?
"I’M NOT AFRAID OF YOU" I screamed, not really sure why I chose that phrase. Probably because I was afraid.
Very afraid.
I had no flipping idea what was happening, what about the other two people in this clearing?
The mouth didn’t move but a low, soft voice took over the clearing. "You don’t have to be fearful; we all mean you no harm."
I quickly shifted my gaze to the others with us in the mystical forest. They were out of the shadows, I was drawn to them, I wanted to get closer I want to see if they look like the winged creature behind me. I try to study the faces but they're just out of view.
Dammit my legs aren't budging.
I turned back to the winged god as how else could I rationalize this.
"I don’t know any of you, how could I trust you" I said perplexed with a bit more tone than I meant.
"You are safe my dear, more than you know. Death would be more pleasurable than to cause you pain" his mouth again didn’t move. This can’t be right how is he talking to me?
I look at the man flying just metres from me. This just doesn’t seem right; in my gut something feels off. How did I get here? I now know why I was running it was obvious. How come I am frozen to this spot? This just doesn’t feel real, I just don’t remember myself before.
The sounds of cracking snapped me back to the men behind me. I saw before me a monster and a beast instead. They faced off, growling and snarling at each other. They kept rounding each other, neither making a first move.
A voice filled the cave, one I hadn't heard yet. A beautiful voice pleaded to me. "Choose wisely love for your choices will either bring extraordinary success or deplorable disasters. You will feel pain and loss like no other but hold onto your strength and allow it to give you power."
“Who are you? Where am I?” I yelled to the sky
“You have to find the path yourself” the voice spoke with the wind.
“That was neither helpful or what I asked” I said frustrated and frightened.
The voice faded out as quick as it came in. I looked around to see the mass of fighting making its way towards me. They were so close in a matter of seconds tearing into each other. One a giant wolf or bear the other a superhuman? Confused, baffled terrified I stumbled back.
BOOM! the mass collides with me at full force taking my breath away, everything goes black.
Boom! I snap awake!
I sit up in my bed rubbing my eyes. What the hell was that, I'm clawing at shreds of the rollercoaster dream I just had.
Feeling chased, the calming woods, the three figures, the fight, the voice. What the hell? I thought shaking my head looking around my room feeling more groggy than usual. I look at the clock. Shit! Might as well get up my alarm will be going off any minute anyways.
After a shower, eating breakfast and a brush and floss of my teeth. I grab the outfit I laid out the night before. Today was a special day and I wanted to look and feel my best! A quick brief of the calendar for todays meetings and I'm ready to hit the road. I was still trying to shake the narcotic dream.
In the car heading down the highway I lose myself to my music. Singing along to almost every hit. Today was a big day at the firm, today I became a senior lawyer. I shouldn’t say it as a definite yet, today was the vote and meeting following, formality really, I've been working my butt off for Lewis and Clarke LLP since my practicum. I've been told over and over by Ben Clarke that this is in the pocket no stress, but Caitlyn Lewis never much spoke a word to me. I need all the partners on my side for this one as there is always snakes in the field.
I fought for this, I deserved this. See growing up I came from nothing, no parents in sight, orphan style in the system. Life was hard to say the least bouncing from foster home to foster home. That is until I was placed in a home with a saint that gave a safe space and an open heart.
My life had been tumbling with every change of housing, I found the family homes the worst to balance myself in. Eleven years old I was wild and spiraling. Each stay getting shorter, my outburst and rage escalating. My worker looked at me like a lost case, frustration clear on her face each time she came to transport me.
I had been placed in a home that seemed nice enough, modern layout obviously an upper-class family. The family consisted of four: mom, dad, sister and brother. Perfectly groomed to my recollection and an uncanny way to make you feel inferior without a movement or word. Picture perfect family the moment I saw them I instantly started planning my plot. I wouldn't be here long; I'd make sure of it. The decor, family portraits, quotes, poems and art that lined the walls made me uneasy. In the centre, a photo of their saviour. Displeasure, distain, disgust I don't know which emotion it was to be honest, but I was getting out of here ASAP.
This would be my worst display yet I'd make sure that I was "unplaceable” just like my worker said on the way here. Amanda was my worker I had her for as long as I remember, there was a happier time with her one in which she didn’t resent my existence. I can’t stay in these family homes I'd rather be in a girls home than continue the torture of watching these "perfect" families love and share when I was not given the same opportunity, I get choices but I wasn’t given any of those either.
I had no chance not a spec of family or support so why would I believe in anything; the system, this family, myself or a savior. Life had given me a shitty hand of that I was sure but to rehash this wound every time was unacceptable. I recoiled at the thoughts and formulated my plan of attack.
Mere hours later Amanda was back to pick me up.
"FAYETTE! how could you do this; I literally have been gone 3 hours and you leave disaster in your wake" Amanda said obviously annoyed.
"It was only a bit of fun" I rebuttal
She’s just gazing off, I follow her glare to the bickering parents, fighting siblings and messy den. I giggle to myself, but Amanda obviously saw and with a shake and a bow of her head she disapproves.
"I told you Fayette this was your last chance, no more options, no more wasting resources and ruining families" Amanda looked like she was going to rip me a new one with the intensified stare and rigid movements of her body.
Suddenly her phone rang. At first, I'm not sure if she’s going to answer it or not her glare was so brutal but she glances down and her expression changes. Amanda doesn't say a word just holds a finger up to motion I stay put and she'll be back, she exits out the front door.
Saved by the ring I thought to myself looking over to the havoc I'd left in my wake. Mixed emotions, guilt and remorse the strongest. I don't like causing others pain and grief contrary to popular belief my heart breaks at this destruction. Selfish maybe but the minor pain I've caused to save myself from even more lifelong trauma, I'd take it. I really don't think I could survive the emotional toll any longer, happy it was done though. No more families.
Amanda returned not looking
at all as steamed as a second ago, almost looking quite bewildered. What the
hell I thought to myself this cant be good.
"Looks like you have a saving grace kid, a guardian angel if you will. You have a new foster home." She stared at me face dead of emotion and added. "If it were up to my supervisor and I you'd be a girls’ home till you got arrested, because trust me that is your future kid but you’re not my problem anymore. This home comes with a new worker." Getting it all out before taking a breath.
I guess my plan was foiled, but how and by who? Who called Amanda? It had to be over her supervisors’ head. I was so close what torture awaited me I dreaded to find out.
Chapter 2
I arrived to work quicker than I anticipated, driver amnesia will do that to a person. This promotion is such a pivotal point in my life just like that day was.
I can't be a space case today I push the thoughts back down for now and turn off my beater to head inside.
“Can't wait for better parking” I mumble to myself during my hike to the building, passing the assigned parking as I go.
When I enter the building I quickly change into my heels and fix my posture.
The office energy is tense a friction abuzz that you can feel in the air, or at least I could. I head to my station and start the pre day preparations.
Quarterly meeting is at ten so I have some time. I check the emails and respond accordingly, I check my personal email right after and see one labeled:
To: Fayette Everborne
Subject: Today is the Big Day
Heya!
I know today is the last day for you in the cube! You've worked so hard, so excited! Coffee station stat!
Mauh
Kali Davis
Paralegal
Lewis and Clarke LLP
I roll my eyes glance at the time and shut down the computer, about time for a tea anyways.
Kali is standing next to the boiling kettle as I enter. "Tea?" she asks pointing at the kettle.
"You know me too well" I smirk at her
I make my tea as Kali fires off invasive questions in my ear. She grabs my attention with a half hearted, "don't forget me with your new office view".
I look at her finally paying attention, she smirks. " I knew you weren't listening” she scowls sarcastically but I see pain and truth in her eyes.
I wrap an arm around her, "you know you're coming with me right. I may be going up only a couple floors but that's an ocean apart in the office world." Laughing, looking to see relief and a smile on her face.
Good I can get on with this meeting, it’s really eating up my concentration. I glance down at my watch, time to prep, if you’re on time you’re late, if you’re early you’re on time.
All the major partners are in there, along with the senior's and juniors. The senior paralegals from different departments are scattered about the room and a handful of Lawyers like me.
Lawyers and paralegals only attend these meetings by official invite, this will only be my second time. They'll go over firm business, financials, quarterly dealings and of course promotion voting results.
I’m scanning the room when my focus lands upon Jonathon Ayres, he’s Caitlyn’s pet, he’s been here two years and acts like his shit don’t stink. Johnathon and I have not been able to see eye to eye since he started. He is also up for consideration today; Ben has told me I have no worries regarding the whole thing. I have been doing my best to push every negative thought away, I had the tenure, but I didn’t talk with Caitlyn so I have no idea what she has in mind or the other senior partners for that matter.
I found myself
pondering that in all the time I’d given this company I was still a small cog
in a giant machine. As Jonathon stares at me with a fiery gaze it is like I can
feel his triumph over me, all of a sudden, I feel weak and nervous. Jonathon
has a huge social click with the guys, he could win this. I start sweating, I
don’t know if I can handle this large of a rejection. This is part of my one
and only goal.
You deserve this.
You worked hard.
You can handle this.
I start to stable my hitched breathing, all the above are true and I have so much thanks to the one responsible for allowing me to see it. My thoughts escape me while steadying my panic.
I'm back in the car with Amanda she hasn't spoken since we got in, she looks up every now and than. She seems puzzled but I don't care to pry. We're heading to the outskirts of town. I do start to ponder what the outcome of this will be. I've seen horror flicks knowing my life and luck they’re cutting their losses on me; I catch my mind reeling laughing at my childish thoughts. Relax Fay I say to myself that's not what's happening here, I'm trying to catch it but the deeper we go into the countryside the worse it gets. The signs of panic are clear all over my body.
Almost like hitting a wall, a calm washes over me. Instead of impact causing me to be winded I found instead the urge to breathe deep and exhale. This is nice I thought, almost tranced I look up.
We pull up to a beautiful stone cottage surrounded by flower beds and ivy growing wild. Glancing around quick I note the wildflowers and greenery everywhere. Beautiful I couldn't think of a lovelier place to die I thought, smirking at my usually grim thoughts.
I exited the car still in awe, Amanda in tow. I felt oddly at home with this place, these woods. Calm flowing through me, feeling almost abnormal to my usual contentment with people, places or things.
I am broken from my trance to see a woman in an opal aura standing at the door of the cottage. My rage and abandonment coming up all over again. Like hell, I silently raised argument all to myself as Amanda introduced herself.
The way this woman glared at Amanda; brownie points, I cheered internally. Loathing myself as I thought it, what the hell Fayette keep it together. I'd never felt like this at a place before, the wind gently whispered as the birds sang and the flowers danced oh what a sight. I was snapped back to reality with a lump in my throat.
‘FAYETTE GET OVER HERE!" Amanda screeched across the driveway.
I rolled my eyes. Catching anger, disdain and fury in the woman’s eyes. Standing in front of Amanda, I couldn’t quite tell where it was directed.
What the hell I hadn't even spoken to her yet, how'd I piss her off already? Better than I thought I giggled to myself. Believing it too till I noticed her glares intended party was not I.
"My name is Tatiana" the woman
extended her arm.
Chapter 3
A nudge to my side jerks me back to the meeting room. I quickly scan no one is staring at me that’s a good sign. To my left Jonathan is smirking. He mouths the word “nervous” as he cocks an eye with a shit eating grin.
His confidence radiating even more so than before, I roll my eyes in response. Just because he is Caitlyn’s office sex toy don't mean he'll get it I say to myself but every negative thought comes back like whiplash. I stopped my thoughts surprised in myself and disappointed in my assumption. One could simply make the same accusations of Ben and I due to our closeness. I laughed at the thought of us intimate in any way. I just didn't see him that way. I know a hundred women who would call me crazy but it just is different for me.
I've yet to be attracted to anyone. Don't get me wrong I know good looks and vogue hot but never anyone I wanted to have sex with. I've just yet to find anyone who makes me get a tingle, a spark, desire or passion. I want true attraction and intimacy not looks and beauty. I’ve yet to find it even in the hottest of men and I can tell you I looked for it at one point. I snapped fully back just in time to hear Ron Attimin finish up the finance report.
Once the floor returns to Ben and Caitlyn all eyes are up front. I am nervous but hell if I’ll let Jonathon see that. I have worked hard, I pushed myself everyday to do better, to be BETTER! I straighten my back aligning my shoulders.
"Next on the docket is senior lawyer" Caitlyn’s voice pierces me. I'm at attention, fully grabbing every word.
"We have given this a lot of thought" Ben continued.
"This is a decision we never take lightly. The vote is always fair and secure." Caitlyn added without a beat.
"We believe this young person has and will continue to show this company how valuable and limitless their skills are" Ben gloated.
"They've shown loyalty and professionalism within our firm, bringing in clients on their merit alone" Caitlyn added.
"We look forward to all the great things you will still accomplish and are so lucky to have you" Ben starts.
There was a pause, for added tension I bet. I looked around quickly focused on Jonathon, unfazed and triumphant. He may win this, my confidence dwindled extraordinarily fast after that thought. I looked down to the floor loosing self esteem just as quickly.
"Fayette Everborne" Ben's voice says loud and clear.
I looked up shell shocked I think, motionless and speechless.
"Slut, sleeping your way to the top is not an accomplishment." Jonathon scowled in my ear, eyes dark with rage. I guess people did think Ben and I had slept together.
What the hell is up with this man child. I ignore his comment as the cheers ring out in the room. I wouldn't let this imbecile ruin my day.
After the room calmed Caitlyn addressed me to stay once the meeting was complete. I nodded still high on my success. There was a couple more formalities before we adjourned. I felt eyes burn into me the whole time. I didn’t have to look to know where they came from.
When I returned to the cube, I had a skip in my step. The meeting with Ben and Caitlyn went amazing, finally I feel a connection to her. I just had to go over all the new contracts of employment. They gave me a run down of the new duties and tomorrow will be a whole new day!
I must move my office and get my paralegal! I had the choice and I knew in a heartbeat who it was. As did the partners to be honest. Kali was going to be so excited. Personal Paralegals get paid more than general and getting out of the cube is the right direction for Kali.
‘FAY!!!!" I hear the waiver in her voice and know word traveled faster than I did, Kali is embracing me before I can answer. "Omg" she says "how stoked are you?" She can hardly contain herself she is almost jumping. Would have thought she was the one who got promoted.
Oh wait, I giggle to my own thought. I guess she did.
"Kali..." I start. Looking at her grin, its almost ear to ear. Cutting me off before I can continue.
"YOU GOT TO PICK YOUR PERSONAL PARALEGAL AND YOU CHOSE ME!" Kali blurted it out one long loud breath, squeaking at the end adding a questioning tone.
I look at her dead faced, I knew she would know but to ruin the surprise. As if to read my mind which I swear this girl does from time to time. One of the main reasons I want her as my personal paralegal.
"I heard from another paralegal that seniors get a personal paralegal and was hoping you'd choose me" she said a lot calmer than her previous outburst but still louder than normal.
"Would there be another option here for my personal paralegal?" I quickly said with a wink before I let her hang on too long. "Grab some stuff time to move, going to be a leg day" I added looking at our heels.
Taking up the remaining hours getting ourselves set-up. The move was only our personal items. Files were boxed and maintenance brought them up separately. After work I opted for take out and TV. Even if I got the promotion the let down was still evident.
Hitting the sheets after the most amazing day, I was exhausted. Tomorrow I start my time as senior lawyer in my modern office. Next is junior partner I giggle to myself staring at the ceiling.
I think back to how my obsession with law began, I hadn't been with Tatiana long. Every time my rage and emotions took over. I found comfort and calming in the land, the forest, meadow and lake. Tatiana never forced, pushed or barged her way with my emotions but she watched breakdown after breakdown with comforting eyes and open arms.
Every prank I pulled, every ploy I tried she never called my worker. I began to trust her, and I loved that place. Eventually I stopped the pranks and such as I didn’t really want to leave or hurt Tatiana. I had breakdowns still, I was a traumatized system orphan with the horror stories to match the scars. It was never going to be perfect. I was never going to be perfect.
One day Tatiana started showing me other unjust scenarios brought to justice through the court of law. Something opened in me a fire burned to help fight. To stand up for what is right. My hero’s became advocates fighting for what's right and helping those who couldn’t help themselves. Tatiana watched my passion spark and fed it through case studies and tv courtroom shows. At that point we matched my learning at school to make sure I'd get into my university of choice and law school to follow. Just like that my life changed my passion alight all thanks to Tatiana. My guardian angel, my saving grace, my family. It is with this thought I fall easily to sleep.
I'm in the woods running, running for my life.
How'd I get here, wait where am I?
My breath is getting rough and my body heavy. I stop because I don't know why I was running, I don’t think I can keep going anyways my body is at its limit. Looking around I recognize this clearing; the light is different but the trees are the same beautiful colour and the smell, the beautiful smell is back.
I've fully stopped, looking around taking in all the serenity and calm in this amazing place when I hear the cracking of leaves, sticks and large logs? I sense something coming, more than one. I see from the clearing on the tree-line; three figures emerge. They're silhouettes all I can see.
"Just because they adore you does not mean they'll treat you right". The ominous gentle voice is back, the voice sweeter than sugar. Her voice intoxicating, I linger in the moment not taking in what she said.
"THEY'LL HURT YOU!... RUN!" the sweet voice boomed with urgency. I saw the figures approaching with unmatched speed.
"I CAN'T RUN THAT FAST" I yelled scampering as fast as my little legs could carry me.
When the three beings were almost on top of me a shilling plead rang through the air.
"Wake Up!" It bellowed.
I shot awake like a bullet out of a gun. I looked around my room still groggy and disoriented when I caught a pair of eyes staring at me.
I squealed and jumped for my side lamp, fumbling to turn it on. Looking back to where I just saw the most piercing eyes all that was there was my desk and chair. They were undisturbed. I shook my head and rubbed my face.
“What the hell Fayette?" I said out loud.
I looked over at the clock, 3:30am in fluorescent red stared back. I'm going for a glass of water to clear my head before I lay back down. I urged myself up not wanting to fall back to that slumber.
I through on a fluffy housecoat to keep my warmth. I was always cold no matter what, I had a running joke that I was warm blooded. I popped on my slippers for good measure.
I took my time on my way down the hall, not that it was far. I kept a modest apartment for city living, a lot of compromises to the cottage. I was trying to maintain justice, not spend money. This place was close to work and amenities.
Getting to the kitchen I grabbed a glass and started the tap. I think of the recent dreams. Wondering if my nerves from work are overflowing, maybe time for a cottage visit. Coming back to the running tap I glance out the window in front of me.
A set of glowing eyes meet my glance, too far back for me to focus on. Hidden in the apple tree out front but I see them.
Chapter 4
I gasped and dropped the glass; it comes crashing down into the aluminum sink.
SMASH!
The sound startles me, I jump diverting my gaze and stumble back. Ah! I catch myself before I fall on my ass. I scatter back to the window, but nothing is out there. I'm straining my eyes trying to convince myself when tears start to prickle at my eyes.
I'm not sure if it is emotion, tiredness and straining, or fear but I push down the tears and blink a couple times. Rubbing my eyes, a shiver descends my back ever so slowly. Vertebrate by vertebrate. I slowly start moving again realizing only than that I had stopped breathing for the shiver. I cling to myself for ease of the sudden chill.
Grabbing a jug of juice from the fridge I returned to my room not turning off a single light. I sat in the glow of my bedside table drinking my juice thinking about what just happened.
Is someone watching me was the first thought and I shrank into my bed at the idea. Wait. They were different, thinking about it my mind started reeling. A thousand scenarios later and half a bottle of juice I started rationalizing.
I'm seeing shit! I concluded, nodding in response to my own theory. I'm having let down, my blood sugar is out of wack, night terrors are back, light reflections, I started laughing aloud. A coping method that for now was working.
I’m eased back into a dreamless sleep with the lights on. Six in the morning comes way to quickly and I feel like death. I hear my alarm beeping it pulls me from a blackness. Morning alarms plan my routine. Wake up, shower, breakfast there is an alarm for each.
“SHUT UP!" I yelled at my alarm.
Sitting up I stretch every inch, feeling it into my toes and fingers. Plopping back down in the bed with my legs over the edge I stretched again for good measure. As I stretch my late-night adventure came flooding back, what an odd couple of nights it had been.
I had that weird dream the night before last. Then last night I swore I seen someone in my room, than the tree. I felt like our eyes met before I dropped the glass. I allowed my mind to wonder a moment before reason took hold and I used the same excuses as last night to move forward.
I jumped in the shower just a quick wash and out. While drying I brush my teeth and apply lotion. I ran to the closet hair still in a towel to locate an outfit. First day as senior lawyer, I go with beige heels and a black t-skirt paired with a fitting beige bottom up top. Grabbing a black blazer, I head to my dresser for my necklace, earrings and rings.
Although my collection is large enough, I rarely choose different jewelry, Tatiana gifted me these and I've worn them ever since.
The day was off to a great start, the drive but a blur. Excited I pulled into my new parking spot no more long parking lot walk for me. I settled into my office and started going through new routines. I looked up to see Ben strutting across the firm towards my office. I met his gaze and we shared a small smile.
He swiftly enters my office.
"What’s up Ben" I ask.
We're ordering lunch from Lee's do you want anything?" He retorts.
"You didn’t have to come all the way here to ask me" I look at him, a smile etched on my face.
"I know" he says laughing to himself " I kind of wanted to see how you were settling in".
What a great guy, I catch myself looking Ben over, am I blushing. Catch yourself Fay I think to myself. I meet his curious eyes "thank you Ben, I'm settling in great. I can’t believe my dreams are coming together. As for lunch I'll get the number five"
“I can believe it Fayette; your hard work and skills shine through with everything you do! I'll get your order in, there's a sheet in our kitchen. Sign up in the mornings and lunch we arrive promptly at noon.” He turns on the spot and exits the room as smoothly as he came in.
As he is leaving, I catch my self daydreaming over his captivating physique and muscular tone. I'm snapped back when he pops his head back in. He was a gorgeous specimen that women want, I’ve seen it. I just don’t have that spark for him. Like in my dream passion and desire so thick I can feel it, I want that.
"Oh, I almost forgot meeting at one forty-five, Caitlyn’s office, new client. See you than." His voice so sweet I'm struck by its melody.
Sounds great see you than" I quickly blurt out as my cheeks heat. He double takes and giggles to himself as he leaves. Did I just embarrass myself or what? Getting busted looking over the boss! I shake my head and get back to work.
The morning went quickly and I accomplished very little. The process of changing over title took over a lot more of my time. I had to send off emails, change files, draft letters to clients and make phone calls. I also had eight new files I would be covering. I had to begin processing those.
Kali came in with lunch, she looked happy. We hadn’t really chatted this morning which was not like us. Her, out front of my office at her desk and I, closed up in here working. I’d sent her a pile of emails so far all relating to work.
“Here’s your lunch” she hands it too me. I suddenly feel guilty.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t even think to ask”
“Don’t be, we paralegals have our own lunch thing” she smiles.
“Oh good” I say hating the power shift with this recent jump. “How is it out there?” I ask.
“Well, there is a way to things, that’s for sure” she says blushing.
“Hope it is going okay” I tell her honestly.
Kali sits and we talk over the changes we are both going through. I really do like her as a person, I think about how we should probably spend more time together outside of work.
Before long Kali is up and out the door again.
Lunch was amazing, with all the new work though time is passing so quickly. I look down and see it is time to get ready for the meeting, I gather my supplies; notebook, pens and my computer- I'm off to my first meeting as a senior.
Chapter 5
Heading to Caitlyn’s office as I was instructed, I find out there is no one there to meet. Shannon her personal legal assistant (only the partners got those) told me they were out for a business lunch but handed me a memo for the upcoming meeting.
As I enter the room my senses are awakened, the energy in here is palpable. I look around to try and level my emotions, we're in conference room one. I don't see anything that stands out. Must just be my nerves I think shaking my head. I sit on the side with Caitlyn and Ben's belongings. I'm the only one here but not the first, my anxiety bubbles up. My thoughts start racing, was I doing something wrong? Are they greeting the client? I should have been there. I'm cut off from my line of thought when the door opens, Ben and Caitlyn stand before me.
“Perfect - we wanted to chat before Mr. Silver arrived" Caitlyn stated
“This is a huge client; we don't know why he decided to change firms, but it is a blessing" Ben added
With the business Mr. Silver does, it could be bringing in millions" Caitlyn finished.
I had a ton of questions, considering I was new to the partner position. I couldn't see why I was being added to such a high-profile file I knew better than to question it though. No squashing opportunity. Instead, I looked up and spoke. " What do you two require from me? how can I help?" In the earnest voice possible.
They both smiled, Ben's a little larger than hers. Neither responded though as a commotion outside the room stirred our attention. Through the glass walls we could see it all unfold like a movie. The copy machine beeping like a bomb and a group of paralegals and lawyers rushing around it like a bomb squad. Almost like slow motion I saw the machine spew ink like an octopus from the bottom. Spraying up with intensity and pressure. Looking at the people around the machine some had it on their faces. How the hell, what just happened? Caitlyn was on her way out to figure out the situation when the ding of the elevator jolted our gaze.
"Just our luck" Caitlyn sighed " it had to be now".
A team of people exited off the elevator, five people in a bird like formation entered the chaos of the octopus’ printer. Their gaze all focused on the scurry of motion in the sea of ink that used to be our front office. I follow the gazes looking back to the scrambling associates, this is bad timing but honestly it is quite an amusing site. Caitlyn struts over to the party of people and gear them to us.
The energy is back full force, a tingle in my gut. Is this my nerves again, I'm frozen still staring at my coworkers cleaning up ink-aggedion. I’m hot, heating up more every second, something I've never felt before passes through me, looking like a shiver. The tingles expand across my body, focusing in my groin and lower abdominal area. I snap my gaze down to the floor taking some deep breaths to steady myself.
It takes a quick moment to bring my gaze back up.
Bam! Like a two-by-four to the chest, I'm winded. I'm looking at this god like man making his way towards me, chatting with Caitlyn who looks ecstatic. I’ve never felt this before, I'm pretty sure I'm attracted to this man. Hosting a tall, muscular build. Que mouth watering. Perfect facial physique in my opinion. Above all something else was there, a buzz, an electrical pulse, a pull so intense I don’t know if I can stand it a second longer. My breath has quickened to match the other signs of arousal. Is this happening? Have I finally found attraction!
I'm melting where I stand, feeling like an ice cream left out in summer. Mr. Silvers eyes flash forward catching mine, I'm stuck in his gaze. Eyes burning with an intensity that pulls me even farther into him. Brown eyes so lucid they look gold. Never seeing eyes of this shade, I rationalize it must be the light reflecting. However, the more I look the more they pop and shine like fresh polished gold. I can't pull my eyes away even though I know I should, he’s a client for goodness’ sake.
He smiles taking in my inability to stop gawking, I'm fighting with everything I have to center myself. I can't. It is like there is no one else here, just him and I. Looking deep within me in a place I yearned to be explored. I feel like he can read me like a book, see into my soul if you will.
“Hello Mr. Silver, nice to meet you" Ben says with an extended arm. We're both torn from whatever happened with the printer and this mans arrival.
The machines sounds like a dying R2D2 and people are still running around.
"Pleasure Mr. Clarke, I look forward to finding out more about your firm." he turns to me to jester introductions. The energy I'm feeling in this room between us is so thick, I’m so overwhelmed by these unfamiliar and new feelings.
I drop the ball staying motionless.
"Who might you be Love?" he asks staring at me full of intensity.
A voice so calm and low he could be an actor. I've never had a voice cause butterflies in my stomach before. I was floating away with it when I was nudged by a scowling Caitlyn.
Head in the motherfucking game Fayette I screamed in my own head.
Finding my voice, I mustered a reply "Sorry, distracted by the octopus’ printer. My name is Fayette, pleasure to meet you Mr. Silver". My body betrayed me and instead of a strong voice it was barely above a whisper.
I however gave my mega watt smile and I think it helped.
A satisfied almost mischievous smile crept upon his face, had I not been in a moment of euphoria. I would have noted it in the creep section of my brain. Instead, the feelings only intensified, radiating throughout my body.
The meeting went by however I’m not sure if I caught much. Mr. Silver kept my attention and the energy I was engulfed in made it impossible to focus. As the meeting concluded, we all stood to formally say goodbye. Mr. Silver had signed a retainer and we were officially his attorneys. We shook hands one by one with everyone from his party. When he towered in front of me, eyes piercing into my soul. I reached out my hand as did he, electricity already pulsating up my fingers.
Our hands connected and bang a surge of tingles, electricity and ecstasy flowed through my body, through every nerve, blood cell and bone. I felt like I had an out of body experience and that everybody would for sure be looking. Glancing around I see not a stir from anyone else like nothing had happened. I meet Mr. Silver’s gaze, a smile broad on his chiseled face.
“Great meeting Mr. Silver, I look forward to working together" I said my voice stronger than earlier but still weak and breathy.
“We shall see Love. I haven’t figured you out yet" he says almost as if just to me.
He clears his throat grabbing the attention of others in the room “I think we should celebrate this relationship between Silver Industries and Lewis and Clarke”
Caitlyn bubbled over to my right, “Yes, what a fabulous idea Sir. What did you have in mind?"
“Lewis’ Vorturios’s, 7pm" he stated not shifting his body or gaze from me.
“Spectacular choice" Ben’s voice rang though.
“I expect my whole legal team present" he said in a matter-of-fact tone staring right at me.
Caitlyn and Ben nodded in unison, with that this man (the one that just flipped my world upside down) turned on his heels and left. I watched him all the way to the elevator before I took a breath. When I came back to reality both were glaring at me.
“Did you take in anything during the meeting” Caitlyn’s voice was harsh.
I look to Ben, pleading for help here but he was silent. What the hell had happened. The energy was no longer light, calm and tingling it was dry and angry.
“We promoted you on merit, don’t let us down, this is not a club or your sexual playground”. She was shooting daggers at me, I swear I could sense jealousy.
Staggering my words, I pleaded “N-no that’s not the reason, sorry for my off demeanor, I’m a bucket of nerves to be on such a high profile file and was worked up by the printer, like an omen I was going to screw up. First day jitters” I took a breath after my word splatter
Caitlyn and Ben’s face lighten, good they see some reason. “We chose you because we know you'll be a great asset and this client will require an out of the box thinker as yourself." Ben said softly as if trying to help steady my panic.
I relaxed my rigid posture as Caitlyn adds “go rest and get cleaned up for this evening. We need you on your best tonight. I’ll have Kali send you over a copy of the file so far. I expect you be up to speed by dinner". Curtly she walked out. Ben gave a smile as he went to leave “see you at six-thirty” he said.
That didn’t
leave much time, it was already three. I collected my things and made my way
home.
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Part Two : Worlds Collide (Coming Soon)
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