Big, cushy love seats fill the waiting area, and the décor is very Mediterranean with rich shades of gold, red, and brown—so warm and inviting. I have to text Madison.
“Hey, I need to use the restroom and check my makeup. I’ll be back in a minute.” I’m sure he knows I’m lying, but who cares?
A very sweet attendant hands out hot hand towels. The restroom, which is probably the size of my apartment, has so many products that it could very well be a beauty supply store.
I pull out my phone to text Madison.
BEST PLACE EVER!
I put my phone back in my Tory Burch clutch purse (a small splurge, but I bought it at the outlets), check my makeup and hair, and head back to Luke.
When I get close, I notice that he’s talking to someone. Judging by his body language, he doesn’t like this person at all. I pause when I arrive at Luke’s side.
Under my breath, I let out a gasp. I can’t help but stare at the man Luke’s talking to. He has to be the most handsome man I’ve ever seen in my life. Tall and muscular with perfectly chiseled jawline. He smiles warmly at me. Gah! I think his eyes actually sparkle. I’m not kidding! I feel like I’ve landed in a Disney movie.
My heart may have stopped beating for a second, but I can’t be sure.
“Luke, who is this stunning woman?” he asks in the sexiest Australian accent I’ve ever heard. Just when I thought he couldn’t be more perfect. “Good for you, mate!” He turns to me, and I force my mouth closed. “Hello, I am Ace Eckelund, Luke’s mate from our summer of soccer in Europe. I am sure he has mentioned me.”
How do I answer this? I could say, ‘Yes, he has mentioned you, and he says you were the biggest ass he’s ever met. He also admitted that you’re a nice guy, and he’s just jealous because you were so talented and all the girls wanted you, including me right now.’ I need to think of something quick because this is the longest silence. Ever.
“Um, yes, he has briefly. I’m Sienna, Luke’s . . . girlfriend.” Why did I just hesitate? I’m on an anniversary date with my boyfriend. “It’s nice to meet you.” I reach out to shake his hand, and I swear my stomach does a backflip.
“This is brilliant! What are the chances of running into you here? I’m with my brother and sister-in-law. I would love to catch up. Will you join us? My sister-in-law’s uncle is the head chef. Please join us,” he says as he flashes me a million-dollar smile.
Oh my gosh, please, Luke, say yes! I think to myself.
“No. Thank you, though. We’re celebrating our anniversary tonight. Maybe we can meet up again while you’re in town,” Luke replies. I know he doesn’t really mean that.
“Happy Anniversary!” Ace exclaims. “How long?”
“Ten months,” I reply nonchalantly.
“Well, congratulations!” He hands Luke his business card. “I’ll be in town for a few months and would love to get together. I’m opening an office for our consulting firm here and need to get it up and running before I head back to London.”
“Are you having a launch party?” I ask automatically. For the first time since this encounter, I’m coherent. “I’m starting an event company, and we have a lot of experience planning launch parties. Let me know if you need any information or local contacts.” I pull out a business card from my bag.
“Absolutely! I will be in touch. Enjoy your celebration. Let’s go out soon, mate.” He leans in and gives Luke a bear hug then walks away.
Luke remains quiet until Ace is out of earshot. “I hate that guy! He’s always been so full of himself.”
“I don’t know. He seemed nice. And I can’t believe he knows the chef.”
Luke rolls his eyes. “I’m not surprised. His brother married into money. They have connections everywhere.”
Jealous much?
The hostess comes over to inform us that our table is ready and has been upgraded to the VIP section right in front of the dance floor courtesy of Mr. Eckelund.
“Oh, wow, really?” I squeal. “I mean—that’s fantastic, thank you.” I walk over to the edge of the balcony and look down to see Ace and his party being seated. I’m not sure this night could get any better.
“Right this way,” she calls, and we follow her down the grand winding staircase. Once settled at our table, I ask about Ace and how they met.
Luke sighs. “Our tour began in England. I had only been there a few days. My first roommate was from the US, but he was homesick, so he left, and they moved Ace into my room. He’s originally from Australia, but he grew up in England. He was really cool and introduced me to everyone. We actually played the same position, and now looking back, he was better than me. I was young, and I know I shouldn’t talk so badly about him because he was a nice guy. So nice that he annoyed me—and obviously still does. When I left, we emailed on occasion but eventually lost touch. I was shocked when I turned around tonight and saw him standing there. Anyway, I really don’t want to talk about Ace. This is our night. Let’s start celebrating.”
The waiter comes over and greets us by name. He recommends the chef specialties. From then on, the night is perfect. The food is phenomenal. And after much coercion, I convince Luke to dance. About halfway through dessert (that is specially made with our names written on the plate in a raspberry sauce), Ace shows up at our table.
“Hello again, mates, are you enjoying yourselves? I hope you don’t mind my stepping in and getting you a better table.”
“Of course not, thank you!” I reply, trying not to say anything stupid.
“It’s fine, thanks,” adds Luke.
“Right, enjoy your night,” Ace says taking Luke’s hint.
And with that, he’s gone. I watch out of the corner of my eye as several women stop by his table to chat. He’s very friendly, but not overly friendly with them. Lucky girls.
What’s wrong with me? Maybe it was that glass of champagne. I never drink alcohol, but since tonight was a special occasion, I had one. That will teach me not to drink. I must be drunk if I want to hang out with this gorgeous, mysterious stranger—who also happens to be my boyfriend’s arch-nemesis—on my anniversary.
“He has a lot of nerve. Why won’t he leave us alone?” Luke says angrily.
“He’s just being nice.”
“More like showing off.”
Our night starts to wind down, but the band is still going strong. I manage to get Luke on the dance floor two more times before we leave. When we get to the car, Luke produces a beautifully wrapped box from the trunk. Yes! Presents! I was starting to wonder. I left his at home for later. I got him a gorgeous new watch that I know he will love. He showed it to me several months ago, and every time we’re out, he always looks at the same one.
I tear open my gift. When I open the box, I unwrap the tissue and see a beautiful sterling silver nameplate for my desk, my name written in Swarovski crystals. It’s beautiful, but I guess I was expecting something more. Like maybe some jewelry. A pair of earrings or . . . a ring? I try not to let my disappointment show.
“I thought it would be perfect for your new desk at Sheer Happiness. Do you like it?”
“Yes, I do. It’s beautiful. Thank you! I have your gift at home.”
I know I shouldn’t be disappointed; it really is pretty and thoughtful. And this is the first time he’s actually shown an interest in Sheer Happiness. I just thought maybe there would be a gift showing more of a commitment.
“Are you okay?” He pulls onto the highway. “You’re quiet.”
“I’m great. Just tired.”
“I hope you had fun. Venice is a great place. I’m just sorry we had to run into Ace. I tried not to let that ruin our night too much.”
Ruin our night? Is he insane? Our table was bumped up to VIP. That never would have happened if we didn’t run into him. I don’t mention that though. It’s probably better to not bring up the fact that his arch-nemesis hooked us up.
Luke loves his watch. And he had Madie make me the sweetest cookies, which were waiting f
or me when I got home. She made the cookies into hearts and little number tens. I’m sure he scored points with her by asking her to help. You never know, someday they may be friends. Only time will tell.
Madison gets home an hour after Luke leaves. She comes running into my room as I’m making lists for the following week. “Tell me everything!” she says as she jumps on my bed. “I’m surprised you’re here,” she adds with a wink.
From the food to the décor, I describe the night in depth. I tell her about running into Ace and getting upgraded. I leave out the part about him being extremely attractive. She would jump all over that one. Then, I show her my gift.
“Oh, that’s very . . . nice,” she says unconvincingly. “Do you like it?”
“Yes. It’s very thoughtful. I just . . . I was kind of expecting something else.”
“Like?” she asks, raising her eyebrows.
“I don’t know.” I don’t want to tell her. Ten months is probably too soon for an engagement. She’s been dating Cole for almost two years, and they aren’t engaged yet. She would think I’ve lost my mind. I change the subject to the bathroom attendant and all of the beauty products. I knew that would get her mind off the gift.
When I finally lie down, I think about the events of the past few weeks, tonight, and the coming months. Both Luke and I have a lot going on. I know he loves me, and I know we are headed in the right direction. I try to put the doubts out of my mind. It sure feels like I’ve been doing this a lot lately, and unfortunately, it doesn’t seem to be getting any better.
Chapter Five
“A nameplate? A nameplate? Are you serious? At least he took you to Venice, but I’m just shocked that this is all he gave you.”
“Craig, it’s been ten months, not ten years. You need to relax,” I say, trying to calm him down. He’s overreacting as usual.
Things have been extremely quiet at the office today. We’re just working on more plans for the charity event—securing a local celebrity host, working on the menu, and speaking with Mrs. Canton multiple times regarding changes to the color schemes.
“She is driving me crazy!” Nicole yells from somewhere in the office. Apparently, Carrie has changed her upcoming trip plans two times in the past few hours. Typical.
After Craig walks out of my office, I check my email and find an invoice from the painters. That means my new office space is ready. I can’t wait to see it.
I add that to my list:
Pay invoice for office paint
I need to check my bank account. I’ve been really careful with my budgeting, but these expenses are adding up. Most of the money I have put into Sheer Happiness has been from my savings, but I did have some money my grandparents left me, and my parents gave me a small loan for the deposits. I bought some great office furniture at one of those going out of business sales. Other than the occasional pair of shoes and that Tory Burch clutch, I’ve been really good with my spending.
I designed my own business cards, which I absolutely love. They’re made from iridescent-silver cardstock with the company name and information printed on the front with a sheer paper overlay. I never liked my business cards for Carrie’s—basic white with black lettering. I’ve tried numerous times to convince Carrie to change the design, but she said it was a waste of money. This is coming from a person who sees a psychic at least once a week. I’m not against seeing a psychic, but just how much can your future really change from week to week? Anyway, even though I have creative control over most things here, I lost the battle of the business cards.
My phone buzzes in my bag. A text from Luke.
Have to cancel dinner. Working late. So sorry! Love you.
I sigh. We were going to meet up with Abby and her husband for dinner. They wanted to take us out as a thank you for the birthday party, which is completely unnecessary considering Matt paid for most of it. I used a bunch of favors and contacts to cover the rest.
OK. I will reschedule. When is a good time?
While I wait for his response, I call Abby on my work line, but she doesn’t answer, so I leave her a message. A few minutes later, Luke returns my text.
Not sure. May have to travel this weekend to meet with client. Not a good day today.
Sigh. Lately, it seems like there’s never a good time.
I don’t really know what to say. I understand how work drama can take over every aspect of life when you’re right in the middle of it. He’s probably losing an account, so it’s better to let him get through it.
Luke’s brother-in-law started Summer Advertising about eight years ago, and Luke and his other brother-in-law joined the firm a few years later. They all work very well together considering it’s a family business. He has two sisters who are both really sweet, and they each have a baby. His parents divorced when he was young—both are remarried—but they all have a great relationship. They even spend holidays together, which I find very entertaining. It’s an interesting dynamic when everyone is together. I’ve only been around all four parents once, and I’ve never seen anything like it in my life. They’re one big, happy, blended family.
Abby calls back a few minutes later, and I explain about cancelling dinner.
“Why don’t you just come with us then?” she begs.
“I don’t want to be a third wheel. Let’s just reschedule.”
“Nope, you’re coming with us. I insist. Please don’t make a very hormonal pregnant woman cry.”
I know better than to tell her no, so I give in and agree to meet them after work.
After getting off the phone with Abby, I let out a deep sigh. Another night of cancelled plans, another disappointment. I put my forehead in my hand and try to make sense of what’s happening in my relationship.
My computer chimes, indicating a new email. I lift my head to see Carrie’s name.
S,
May be gone rest of week. Scan in paperwork for charity, I will sign and send back. Thanks, love.
C.
Hmmm, another week goes by with Carrie unavailable. The launch of Sheer Happiness can’t come soon enough.
I’ve rehearsed my resignation in my head many times. As soon as Faith, Fashion, and Hope is over, my plan is to set up a private meeting with Carrie. I’ll give her my formal resignation in writing, but I really want to explain in person. I’m very curious (and a bit nervous) about what her reaction will be, but I can’t let that stand in my way.
The Cantons have graciously offered to host my launch party at their home. After they hired us to plan their event, I told them about Sheer Happiness. They were even willing to break the contract with Carrie’s and hire me, but I asked them not to. Needless to say, they entertain a lot, so I know they’ll refer quite a bit of business to me in the future.
Faith, Fashion, and Hope is a charity to raise money to help disabled children get needed health care or help pay for their family’s expenses. Their niece Faith has Down syndrome and cerebral palsy, and she’s the sweetest little girl. They’ve made great progress bringing awareness and acceptance to the children that struggle and don’t receive the best care. It’s a wonderful cause, and I’m so excited they asked us to be a part this fabulous night.
I finally reply to Carrie’s email and send over all the documents for her to sign. Of course, this should have been done a while ago, but she’s notoriously bad at following through.
After seven, I finally leave the office to meet Abby for dinner. Her husband decided to skip so we could hang out. He’s such a good guy. I can’t remember the last time Abby and I hung out.
We meet up at a local family-owned Mexican restaurant. It’s small and quaint, and the food is delicious. It’s great to catch up with Abby and hear all about her pregnancy and plans for the baby. She’s going to be such an awesome mom. I remember when she used to say she would love to have ten kids. I think that number has gone down drastically now that she’s pregnant.
“I hope you’re going to let me plan the baby shower. When do we find out if it�
�s a boy or a girl?” I ask, taking a sip of my Diet Coke. Baby showers are so fun and easy to plan, and I haven’t done one in a while.
“We find out in about four weeks. I can’t wait,” she says excitedly. “I would love for you to plan it, but I figured you would be too busy.”
Just when I’m about to tell Abby it will be no problem, I hear a familiar voice laughing and talking behind me. I turn around and see Ace Eckelund standing near the door.
My heart begins to race. What’s he doing here? Should I say something? Should I pretend I don’t see him? How did he find out about this place?
“Sienna? Is something wrong? Hello?” I turn back to see Abby staring at me with a strange look on her face. “Are you okay?”
“What?” I hesitate. “Oh, yeah, I’m great.” I turn again to see Ace still standing near the door.
“Who is that?” Abby asks after figuring out who I’m looking at.
I take a deep breath then tell her the story about running into him at Venice, careful to leave out a few details about my (small) attraction to him.
“Wow, so Luke can’t stand him? I can see why. He is hot,” she adds loudly.
“Abby!” I yell, trying to get her to quiet down.
He glances in our direction.
Oh, no!
I quickly look around for a place to hide.
It’s too late. Before I have a chance to escape, he walks toward us.
I start to panic.
Abby watches intently.
“Excuse me?”
I look up and meet his eyes.
“Don’t I know you? Sienna? Well, hello! I thought that was you,” he says, smiling at me.
“Where is my best mate, Luke, tonight?”
I clear my throat. “Hello, Ace. It’s nice to see you again.” I try to act cool and secretly hope he didn’t hear what Abby said. “Luke is working tonight. This is my friend, Abby. Abby, this is Luke’s friend, Ace. They played soccer together in Europe.”
[Event to Remember 01.0] An Event to Remember...or Forget Page 4
