“Sarah please. Don’t leave. Call the police if it makes you feel more comfortable. But please… please don’t leave. I’ve been waiting such a long time to talk with you. I thought I’d never see you again.”
I stopped and turned around. He stood next to the bench, tears flooding his eyes.
“I promise I won’t harm you. I just need you to listen to what I have to say. Please Sarah.”
“I don’t like what you are saying.”
“I understand that and I’m sorry, but you need to know the truth about what happened to you.”
My stomach knotted with tension and I wanted to do nothing more than run away. But there was something in his tone, something desperate, and that tone made me stop short. I needed to find out what he knew. I had to admit, there was a nagging feeling in the back of my mind. What if what he was saying were true?
“I will listen to you, but I’d appreciate if you would please refrain from telling me anything intimate that may or may not have happened between us. It makes me very uncomfortable.”
“But…” He wiped at his eyes and he took a deep breath. He looked defeated. “I understand. I’ll do as you ask.”
“What is it you have to say? Tell me your story.” I was trying to maintain a certain calmness as I stood before him with my arms crossed tightly over my chest.
“Please sit. I’ll move over and give you some space.” He motioned towards the bench next to where he stood, then sat down. I looked around, relieved to see there were still many people sitting and walking about. I was sure that if I cried out for help, someone would definitely come to my aid.
“A little more, please.” I motioned for him to move over more and when he did I sat. “Okay, I’m ready to hear your story.”
“Story?” He looked hurt. His eyes welled up again and for a minute he looked like someone killed his favorite pet. “I’ll tell you a story. Do you want to hear a story?”
The way he annunciated the word story sent a chill right down the length of me.
“Only if it has something to do with me and my life?”
“It most definitely does.” He was arrogant, but his self-assuredness pulled me in.
“Yes, tell me a story.” I sat back and tried to mentally prepare myself for what felt like some serious dishing, with an extra helping of freaking creepy.
Chapter Sixteen
“It started on a Tuesday. Yeah, it was a Tuesday when I first saw you.” He said more to himself than me. “One year, two months and three days ago to be exact.”
Wow, he was one for details.
“I saw you walking. I think you were going back to your office upstairs. You looked so sad and lonely, but you were so beautiful I couldn’t take my eyes off of you. I was leaving the building, I had an appointment I needed to keep, but something about you made me stop. I stared until you disappeared into an elevator.”
“Wait, you work here?” I interrupted and jumped from the seat.
“Yes.”
He waited for me to sit back before continuing.
“As I said, I was leaving the building for an appointment, but the next day, when I was on my way out to grab some lunch, I spotted you sitting over there.” He pointed to the end of the curved bench, outlining the fountain. “You looked like you had been crying. I was reluctant to approach you, but when I saw how devastated you looked, I walked over to you. I asked if there were anything I could do. I remember all I wanted to do was make you smile, I told you a woman as beautiful as you should never look so sad. You smiled, but for the most part ignored me.” I looked at him briefly, then back towards the revolving doors, “I expected that. I didn’t think you were going to just open up to me…a perfect stranger. So I left you to your thoughts. When I saw you the next day, I walked up to you and said hello. You smiled. I think I lost my heart right then.”
I had this strange feeling deep down inside my gut. Something about what he said seemed familiar to me. He had my attention, and I still had the revolving doors visible from the corner of my eyes, but I was hell bent on hearing the rest of his ‘story’.
“Please continue.”
He smiled briefly, like he knew he had me.
“Well, we began to greet one another whenever we saw each other. Then it turned into small talk; usually benign conversations, the weather, our jobs. Then it started to get more personal. You obviously needed someone to talk to, and I had fallen for you hook, line and sinker.”
“My dad used to say that a lot.”
Flash.
Memory.
I don’t know how or why, but this guy was making sense to me.
“You loved him very much.” When he saw my reaction it seemed to spur him on. “Well, we started to meet for lunch once a week, then twice. Our conversations got a bit more personal. You confided in me that you were very unhappy. You were living with your fiancé.
You told me at first he swept you off your feet. You were so in love, you didn’t know up from down. And then, after you agreed to marry him, he became very controlling. He would tell you what you could and should wear.”
I suddenly remembered this morning, the shoes…Brad kind of telling me what shoes to wear. He was right, but still…I got a weird vibe. “He would dictate your work schedule, who you took on as clients, who you were allowed to socialize with. You were feeling smothered, stifled.” He stopped and looked directly at me, like he was waiting for affirmation. “Those are your words, not mine.”
He looked away for a moment, as if in thought, then turned around and continued. “You confided in me that you were thinking about ending the engagement, but were afraid of what he would do to you. You told me he presented a different persona to the world, but at home, you tried to stay as far from him as possible.”
“You began to count on me. You were so lonely and I was…”
“I told you I didn’t want to hear that we…”
“I understand, but there isn’t an easy way to say this.”
He waited for my response.
I barely nodded. Not wanting to hear this, yet unable to walk away.
“Our relationship blossomed,” he began talking again, “and one thing led to another. We would meet in your office…”
“Wait, are you telling me that I was having sex with you?”
“It was otherworldly. You were soft and sweet…and insatiable.” He smirked and my stomach rolled.
I felt nauseous.
Dirty.
He continued, but then quickly lost the smile when he saw the disgusted look on my face.
I looked at him questioningly, and he jumped back into the story, full steam ahead.
“You would meet me in your office in the morning, then it was twice a day. We fell in love. It wasn’t our intention. Of course I wanted you more than air, but you were hesitant. You were afraid. Always looking over your shoulder.
We met at my apartment as well. You’d tell him you were going shopping, or visiting your friends when the whole time we were… um. It wasn’t long after, when you confided in me and told me you loved me. That was when we began discussing how you would end your engagement. We both agreed it would be best if you left him and moved in with me, where I could protect you.”
My head was spinning. I couldn’t believe that I was ‘plotting’ to leave Brad. I couldn’t believe Brad was so controlling that I actually feared him. But I didn’t remember anything. I just had that familiar feeling that I was afraid of someone.
“I was planning on leaving Brad?”
“Yes. You had packed the day before and instructed me to take your things to my house. You told me your mother wouldn’t understand you leaving a man with Brad Hunter’s wealth and social status.”
I couldn’t believe I actually thought that way about my mother. She was…seemed so caring and wonderful. Surely she would understand if my feelings for Brad had changed and I was fearful of him.
“We decided the best course of action was for you to go to work…here the next da
y and we would leave in the middle of the afternoon. You would call Brad, when you were at my apartment and tell him that you were no longer in love with him and wanted to end your relationship. I was so excited to be beginning our new life, and so…so were you.”
“Well, what happened?” I was totally engulfed in the story he was telling me. It seemed so unlikely, but at the same time would explain some things…feelings I’d been experiencing of late.
“You never showed up to work the next day. When I called your office, I was informed you were in an accident. I pressed Lena for more details, but she was reluctant. I think she was also afraid of Brad.”
‘She’s on leave…full pay of course.’ But was she, or did something else happen?
“I kept calling back until she finally told me that she’d heard you fell down the stairs and was in the hospital, in a coma. A fucking coma!” His neck muscles tensed into cords and I could see anger replace the warmth in his eyes. “I was so angry. So confused. I felt guilty.”
“Yes, I was hurt. Guilty, why would you feel guilty?”
“I thought maybe he found out about us. Found out that you were planning on leaving him.”
I looked at his vacant stare and felt sick to my stomach.
“I spent several weeks in the hospital how come you...”
“I know. I tried to visit you, but was informed only family members were allowed to see you. That’s when I knew Brad had something to do with your being there. He must have had you followed or something and knew of our plans, although I can’t figure out how. You were very careful. He instructed the staff at the hospital that I was not allowed in to see you, or to visit you.”
“I have no memory of you. I have no memory of my life. All I have now are small flashes. Like millisecond visions that would come and go so quickly.”
It was the strangest thing, but I think I actually saw him smile. I could be wrong. I was very confused right now.
“Well, doesn’t that seem a little coincidental? You were meeting me the next day to leave him and the night before you ‘fall’ down the stairs.” The way he said ‘fall’ made my head spin.
“You can’t possibly think I was pushed.” My whole body shuddered. “Brad couldn’t…he’d never.” I had to stop. I felt a coldness creep into my chest and wrap its fingers around my heart.
“Well, nothing was ever proven.” He looked at me again, fire blazing behind his eyes, “There was an investigation. He called the police to cover his ass. I’m sure his money bought him the results he needed.”
“Are you saying Brad bribed a law officer?” I stood, my hand released the vice like grip I had on phone in my pocket. “You really think he pushed me don’t you?”
My stomach churned. I felt sick and I suddenly knew I was about to vomit. I quickly scanned the immediate area for a place that wasn’t so public and with my hand over my mouth ran to the side of the building, on 48h Street, and cowered in a small corner. Giving up all I had this morning and more. My head was pounding, my heart racing. Could this man be telling the truth? Did Brad try to kill me? Could this be happening? Why can’t I remember anything?
I slowly stood to find the ‘man with the story’ standing right behind me. He held his hand out offering me a wad of napkins and I took them wiping my forehead and my mouth. My legs threatened to buckle underneath me and I was trembling from head to foot. I leaned on the building for support and raised my eyes until they locked with his.
“You know my name, and I don’t know…remember yours.”
“Kevin. Kevin O’Shea.”
“Well, Kevin.” The name didn’t ring any bells, but that was one hell of a story. “Is there any way? Umm. Can you prove any of what you are saying to me?”
“Yes.”
“How?”
“I have things… I have your things. The suitcase you packed, personal things.”
He waited a moment for that piece of information to sink in.
“If you can meet me here tomorrow, I’ll take you…we’ll go to my home and I’ll show you everything.”
“I don’t know that I could get away without Brad knowing.”
“Seems like nothing’s changed. He still has you afraid to leave the house.”
“I’m not afraid. I just don’t know how to get around.” I was angry at his implication that I was some stupid, weak woman, who was so frightened that I couldn’t function. I just don’t remember. “I wouldn’t know the first thing about how to get into the city.”
“Here. He quickly wrote down a number. This is my number. Put it somewhere safe, where he won’t find it and when he leaves tomorrow, call me and I’ll come get you.” He handed me a business card with a number written on the back.
“How do I know what you say is true? How do I know I could trust you?”
“Sarah, sweetheart. I will prove it to you tomorrow. You have my word as a gentleman.”
“I have to go. I have to think. This is a lot, too much. My head is spinning.” I was still trembling violently, unsure how I was even speaking at this point.
“I understand. Calm down. Try to calm down. Think about it tonight. I’m hopeful something will come to you.”
“I need to go now.” I looked at the cell phone Brad gave me. Two hours had gone by and he would be looking for me soon. “I will think about it.”
“Promise me you’ll call.”
“I can’t promise. I’m so confused.” I was teetering on the verge of hysteria and he saw it. “You need to give me time…and space.”
“Okay. Please calm down. We don’t want Brad to become suspicious.” He squeezed my hand and leaned in close. So close his lips grazed my ear. “I love you Sarah. I love you so much, and I thank God that you’re alive. I will protect you. I promise to take care of you. No one will ever hurt you again.”
“Goodbye.” I whispered and walked quickly towards the entrance to the building.
What can go wrong indeed?
Chapter Seventeen
When I finally stepped off the elevator and walked into Brad’s office suite I was both mentally and physically exhausted. I was met by a barrage of people who rushed to greet me, all strangers. They knew exactly who I was and I didn’t recognize a soul. I was still reeling from the story I’d just been told by Kevin. My stomach was still a bit queasy and I’m sure I looked green.
I was led into Brad’s office by his assistant Charlene, a very pretty blonde, about my age. Brad was on a phone call, but immediately looked up and smiled. He raised one finger indicating he’d be off the phone shortly and I looked to Charlene for direction. She smiled and pointed to the sitting area.
I quietly thanked her and made my way over to the couch.
“…I expect that and more…make sure you keep me up. I need this project completed on schedule…You understand me?” He hung up the phone and walked over to where I was sitting.
“Did you have a nice time?” He smiled and I tried hard to see the monster behind the eyes. Either he was very good at concealing that part of himself, or he knew I was unable to remember that Brad. Or it may just be I’m totally crazy and I just met someone crazier than myself. Too many ‘whys’ were floating around inside my head. Why would Brad hurt me? Why don’t I remember anything? Was Kevin telling the truth?
In any case, the room was spinning and I was still incredibly nauseous.
“Um, I don’t know that nice is the right word.”
“Oh?” He seemed concerned and sat next to me. “I’ve missed you” He took my hand in his and brought it to his lips. “Sarah. Why are you trembling?”
I pulled my hand back and clasped them both together resting them on my lap.
“I just think it was too much, too soon.”
“Are you feeling alright?” The concern in his voice was evident, or was he just really good at faking it.
“Would it be okay if we skipped lunch, I’m really not feeling well. I’m tired.”
“Of course.” He stood and walked over to his desk
. He pressed a button.
“Yes Mr. Hunter?” Charlene’s voice came through the speaker clearly; she sounded totally professional.
“Have Jay bring the car out front.”
“Of course, right away.”
He walked into the room behind his desk and came out with a cup filled with water.
“Here, drink this.”
I took the glass and drank it down quickly, the coolness of the water made me feel a little better.
“Thank you.”
“I’m sorry. It was selfish of me to ask you to come today. I was afraid it might be too much for you, but I just like having you near me.” He pulled me to him and I stiffened. I felt his body tense and I knew our newly formed dynamic had changed forever. Everything was different.
Could it be possible he did this to me? Was he hell bent on controlling me to the extent that he would try to kill me if I tried to leave him? I had no way of knowing if any of this was true. I would have to rely on my instincts. I just prayed the instincts I had were sharp enough.
The ride home was quiet. I leaned my head against the back seat and closed my eyes, effectively ending any conversation about my day, which by anyone’s definition was horrific. I wasn’t feigning the throbbing headache, I was now suffering. I did, however, feel emotionally spent and physically exhausted.
When we arrived back at the house, I told Brad I needed to lie down for a while. He handed me two pills and a glass of water.
“Drink up. Doctor’s orders.”
I took the pills and swallowed them. Realizing after I’d taken them, it was too late to protest. I would have to get through whatever mind-altering effects they may cause. Or was I just being overly paranoid now? I hated that I had no way of knowing for sure, but from here going forward, I had to be more vigilant. After all, it is always better to be safe than sorry in the future.
“I’ll see you later then?” I asked, trying to gauge his mood.
“Of course, get some rest. I’m sorry if it were too much today. I had hoped that you would remember something. Although, I have to admit, I like spending time with you the way we used to. I miss traveling with you. So the trip today was, in part, somewhat my fault.”
Ever, Sarah Page 15
