by Hart, Rye
I wiped the tears that escaped. “I just wish he’d been interested in me for real. I had been so flattered. I must have looked like an easy mark: the stupid little small-town waitress. I gave him my virginity. There’s no telling how many other women he’s made feel the same way.”
She nodded sympathetically. “Don’t call yourself stupid, Carrie. He was charismatic. Anyone would have fallen for it.”
I nodded and then decided I needed to change the subject.
“I’d like to learn more about this procedure and set it up. I’d like Dad to be home for the holidays. I know Dr. Ross had said that scheduling wouldn’t be an issue since the surgery doesn’t take long.”
“That sounds hopeful.” She knew how long I’d wanted to do the surgery and to have my dad back home.
“Yeah, I’m glad something does.”
We sat a while just visiting and when she left she promised that she would not tell Chance anything if he came by. I planned to call our boss in the early morning and tell him I had to quit, and Lindy had already prepared to take the shift so they wouldn’t be left hanging.
I had handed in my phone and when Rick asked if there was any final message I’d like to give Chance, I’d shaken my head. But now as I sat there I wish I’d told him how I felt and had him pass the message along. In a way, I wanted him to know he’d hurt me, but in another, I didn’t want him to know how much. I also thought that many other messages I could have left, but knew it was not good to sit and think of what should or could have been. I needed to move on with my life and try to make things better for my situation as well as my father’s. He had to be my number one priority and Chance needed to be history.
I hadn’t bothered to take any of the clothes that he’d bought me in Paris, or the dresses that he’d left in the closet. I knew those were things that he’d given the others, and I didn’t want to be anything more like them. If I didn’t need the hundred thousand so badly I’d have thrown it all in his face, but I had more than earned that money.
I soaked in the tub, and got ready for bed, hoping that things would be better once I got through the next day. Maybe in time, I could put Chance behind me, and the memories of him would fade.
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN - CHANCE
Waiting on Monday to come had been hell, and I had sat in Angelo’s for a few hours Sunday hoping to see her friend Lindy.
I woke up late and cursed, seeing that the diner had opened two hours ago. I needed to check and see if she’d shown up for her morning shift and if not when she might be in.
“Are you heading out again?” Nate sipped his coffee and stared at his phone.
“Yes, and I hope to see her today. I’ll bribe Lindy if I have to just to get a moment with her.”
“That might not be wise; you know how women are protective of one another.”
“I’m sure a five-thousand-dollar tip will buy me what I need, especially when I explain that I’m in love with her.” I was going to march right in and declare that fact the moment I saw her. I’d played it out in my head a thousand times the night and day before. She’d be in that sexy waitress uniform, with her hair in that messy bun, and I’d walk right up and kiss her, or maybe she’d be so excited, we’d run to each other. It seemed like a cheesy love scene in a B movie, but I’d take it.
“You might piss her off. What if she just wants to be left alone? The billionaire status intimidates some people, you know. Some people are not impressed by it, and you already admitted she’s special and not like the others.”
“Thanks for the ounce of hope, friend.” I grabbed my phone off the table where it had charged through the night and then went to my room to grab my shoes.
“I’m not trying to be a downer man, but I just think if she didn’t jump at the chance to talk to you when Rick told her you wanted to, then she might not be so easily won. She’s got a lot on her plate.”
“I know, and I’d like to help her with it. Is that so wrong?”
“Just promise me this, Chance; if you strike out again, this will be the end of the chase?”
“I promise. But I’m not striking out. And it doesn’t count until I see her and she tells me for herself that it’s over.”
“Deal. Good luck, my friend.” He returned to his phone, and I heard the sound of a game loading its obnoxious music as I headed out.
I took off to the diner, hoping that I hadn’t missed an early morning shift change. When I walked in and caught a glimpse of Lindy’s smiling profile as she refilled a customer’s coffee cup, I breathed a sigh of relief. I glanced around, hoping to see Carrie, but she wasn’t there unless she was in the back.
I stood by the door until Lindy finished tending the table, when she turned around her eyes widened as she saw me.
“If you’re here to see her, she quit. First thing this morning.” She popped her gum and returned the coffee pot to the station as I followed her to the bar.
“I just need to talk to her, Lindy. Could you please help me?”
“What is it, sweetie? Do you think there’s a piece of her heart you left unbroken? Back to finish the job?” She turned and grabbed an order, and I waited until she dropped it on the table and as she made her way past she paused in front of me. “Sit and order or get the hell out.”
I decided to sit and order. A young, red head came across with a pad and pencil and leaned against the table. “Can I get you something?”
“Yes, I want Lindy to wait on me.” I gestured to her, and she turned and shook her head.
“I got him, honey. You can take the couple at four.” She sauntered up and took out her pad. “You look like a hungry man, what can I get you?”
“Carrie’s last name.” I met her stare, and she rolled her eyes.
“Look, I promised her that if you happened to show up here, I’d send you packing.”
“I love her!” I had blurted it out and a bit louder than I’d expected. Everyone around us got quiet and exchanged looks.
“You what?” That grabbed her attention.
“I know, it wasn’t part of the deal, but I’ve been sick without her, and I’ve tried to get back to her, but the meetings went long, and the plane was delayed. I should have brought her with me; I should have explained, I—”
“Slow down, Chance.” She motioned to me that I needed to lower my voice. “If you love her and she’s in love with you, then what’s the problem? She’s been so upset.” She gave me a narrowed glance. “Tell me what happened.”
I explained what happened to her, leaving out the graphic detail and by the end, she was holding my hand. “Shit. She thought you didn’t care. What about all those other women?”
“I had my arrangements, yes, but I have never fallen for any of them. She’s special. I have to see her, please. Could you help me?” If I had to get on my hands and knees and kiss her feet, I would have, but after a moment with her hand to her mouth, as she quietly contemplated, she nodded.
“Okay. I’ll help you. But if this blows up in my face, I’m kicking your ass. And if you hurt her, I’m kicking your ass. Do you feel me, money bags?”
I believed her.
“Yes, thank you. You won’t regret this.”
“I told her I was right,” she said shaking her head as she went to refill a man’s coffee. She waited on a few of her other tables, refilling drinks, grabbing extra napkins, and leaving their check, and then she returned to my table.
“What did you mean by that? That you told her you were right?”
“I don’t know if you know this or not, but Carrie doesn’t believe in miracles, magic, or dreams coming true. She’s quite the doubting Thomas. The day you walked through that door, she had just said that she needed a miracle. Do you know that you were supposed to be my table, but I conceded to her because I thought that was a sign?”
I had no idea.
“You’re right. So, will you tell me where she lives?”
“Not so fast. I don’t mind helping and giving her a call, but I’m not
about to give you her name and address. I’ll call her in and tell her the boss needs to see her about quitting. She’ll come in. She won’t like leaving something unresolved. That’s when you can see her. And I suggest you don’t waste any time telling her, because she’s going to be pretty pissed off at us both to see you sitting here.” She shook her head, and with a deep breath she pulled out her phone. After a moment, she met my eyes.
“She’ll be here in twenty.” She took her pen and pad and waited for me to order. I knew by the look on her face; I shouldn’t refuse.
“Bring me the waffles, two eggs on the sunny side, and juice.”
“And some maple bacon, of course?” She lifted a brow, and I nodded. “Trust me. It’s her favorite. If she tries to run screaming, you can always wave it in front of her, and she’ll follow you right home.”
She turned to go put the order in, and I sat in the booth, tapping my foot and wiping my sweaty hands on my jeans. I hadn’t been that nervous in ages. Not for anyone or any situation, but this was my last chance. If she said no, I’d have to give it up like I’d promised Nate.
My nerves only got worse as I waited, and when Lindy brought my food, I let out a long sigh. “She should be here by now.”
“Patience, she went to her dad’s home to drop off a plant. You can wait, can’t you?”
“As long as it takes.” I unwrapped my fork from the napkin covering it and dug into my waffles. The maple bacon smelled wonderful, and as soon as I had my mouth good and full, my phone rang.
I dropped my fork and answered when I saw it was Nate. “What?”
Nate seemed out of breath. “I need you to get down here, man. Proctor is on a tear, and he wants to see you. I messed up and told him you were in town.”
“Tell him I’m not. That I left. I can’t come right now!” I ducked toward the wall next to my booth and raised my voice, and when I peeked over my shoulder, Lindy was watching.
“Don’t do this to me, man. You’re the only one he deals with for a reason.” Nate’s voice was uneasy on the other end.
“Stop being a pussy and tell him to fucking wait! I don’t have time to kiss his ass right now. She’s on her way, and I’m not leaving!” I couldn’t believe this was happening, but I wasn’t going to miss her, not even for the millions at risk. I knew I could kiss them goodbye. I slammed down the phone and let out a long breath. I couldn’t believe I’d flipped out like that, but damn. Lindy walked over and refilled my juice.
“Sounds like problems in paradise.”
“If you mean the sound of me losing millions of dollars, yes. But I’m not leaving, so please tell me you really called her.”
“I did, I promise. Are you really losing millions?”
“As we speak. It’s okay; I make them by the minute. But I’d really wanted that deal to go through. It could mean a lot of jobs for this community.”
“You know, you don’t sound so bad. I hope it works out.” She looked up as the bells chimed on the door and then she gave me a wink. “Good luck.” She nodded, and I turned to see Carrie at the door. She spotted me, but Lindy was already on her way, begging her to trust her and just to hear me out.
After some convincing, she came across the room, and I released a long-held breath, praying if she turned me down, I’d never take another.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN - CARRIE
Chance stared at me across the room as I deliberated on fleeing or trusting my best friend. She’d never gone against my wishes before unless she’d had a good reason, and she’s always had my best interest at heart.
“What’s he doing here?” I folded my arms knowing now that the boss hadn’t called me in to talk. I’d assumed I was coming down to hear him beg me back, and instead, there was Chance to say his piece.
“Just listen to him.” She took my arm and walked me to the table. “Oh, and I was right,” she whispered in my ear.
“I don’t have anything to say.” I leaned against the booth and looked out the window.
“Sit. You know we don’t like no standing around in Angelo’s diner.” Lindy encouraged me to take a seat, which I did. “Look, he’s got your favorite. I bet he gives you a bite.” She met my eyes, and I was less than impressed.
He leaned in closer. “Please, Carrie. I tried to get back in time, but it didn’t work out.”
Lindy walked over from where she’d been listening and leaned in. “No time for small talk,” she rolled her hand as if telling him to hurry up.
The two exchanged a glance, and he nodded. I didn’t know when the two had become so chummy, but it was obvious that his charms had her mesmerized.
Without warning, Chance reached across the table and took my hand. “I love you.”
I jerked my hands away and shook my head. “Nice one. But I don’t think so.” He looked crushed, and as I saw the pain in his eyes, I couldn’t help but think he was serious.
“I know I messed up, Carrie, but I’m here, and I want you to know that you changed me. You made me want something that I haven’t wanted in ages, and that’s a real relationship.” He raked his hand through his dark hair and let out a breath. “I’m begging you for a chance. Lindy said you were heartbroken and I want you to know, I’d never do that intentionally. I thought you didn’t want more than the contract agreement.”
I didn’t even know what to say, and I wasn’t sure the words were even registering. I’d stopped hearing everything after I love you.
“I love you too.” I wasn’t sure where the words were coming from, or how I’d managed to speak them, but he practically crawled over the table to kiss me.
His lips crushed against mine and suddenly everyone in Angelo’s was clapping and cheering, including Lindy who had tears in her eyes.
I pulled away, and my cheeks reddened.
Lindy pointed to the parking lot. “Friends of yours?” she asked Chance.
I looked over to see Nate getting out of a car with a short, portly man whose face was so red that he looked like steam might billow out at any moment. They had to be looking for Chance, and as he got to his feet, the two came in.
Chance stood and greeted the angry one. “How are you, Peter?”
“Wondering why I’m down the road bothering with your deal when you’re here chatting it up with the wait staff and eating waffles.” He took out a handkerchief and wiped his brow. “What’s more important than our money, boy?”
Chance was not amused by the endearment, and he stood and squared his shoulders, looking down his nose at the man as he took my hand and pulled me up to stand beside him. “I’d like you to meet Carrie. She’s who’s more important. So, if you’ve come down here to put me in my place or threaten to take your money and run, all I’ve got to say is get moving. But you’ll miss out on a great opportunity to help the people of this community.”
The old man looked around at the eyes on him, most who were upset that he’d killed the tender moment between the handsome stranger and their favorite waitress and his face reddened, this time with embarrassment.
“It’s nice to meet you.” I put my hand out, and he took it, offering a half smile.
“Pleasure.” He glanced toward Lindy who stood with her arms folded in front of her and a sly grin on her face.
Then the order bell rang, and Joe shouted, “Order up,” returning the energy back to normal.
The portly man extended his hand toward Chance and then glanced down to the table. “Is that waffles with maple bacon?”
Lindy stepped up with her order pad. “They’re a house favorite, can I get you some?”
The old man sat in my empty seat and rattled off his order, and Nate sat with him looking like he wasn’t sure what was happening.
Chance pulled me close and kissed me again, causing my heart to do another flip. “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?” I whispered in his ear as we took another booth.
“I didn’t think you wanted more. You’re strong, and I love the way you want to take care of your father, but I thought that was
all that mattered to you, I didn’t think you’d have room for me.” He lifted his shoulder as he squeezed my hand.
“He’s getting his surgery, thanks to you. I called the specialist earlier.” I had hoped I’d be able to share that news with him, and by some miracle I had. Lindy had been right all along.
“That’s not thanks to me, Carrie. You’re the one who was willing to do what it took. But I’m glad you did. I haven’t felt like this before. I want you by my side. I want to take care of you for a change.” He stroked my hair and tucked a stray hair behind my ear. “Will you let me?”
“I’m not sure I can get used to that.” I had always been the one to wait on others and tend to them, and I hadn’t ever had anyone do that kind of thing for me. Not even my stepmother.
“Do you want to try?” He looked at me with hopeful eyes.
“Yes—”
His mouth was on mine before I had a chance to finish the word, and I couldn’t believe that this was all happening for us.
He pulled away and met my eyes. “I want to go meet your father. I’d like to ask his permission to date you.”
“I’m sure he’ll like that. You want to go right now?” I had left my father on the way over, and he’d been in good spirits, and we’d had a good conversation. “Just remember, if he asks, I met you on a girl’s weekend with Lindy. I’d rather him not know.”
“Yeah, me too.” We shared a laugh, and he called Lindy for his check then the two of us headed out to his car where we climbed in back and gave the driver directions to the home. Then as we shut the tinted glass, he pulled me close.
“God, I’ve missed you.” He buried his nose in my hair and inhaled deeply. “You’re scent, your taste.” He kissed me, planting a soft peck on my lips. “I can’t wait to be inside you again.” His words sent chills up my spine and neck and I met his eyes and placed my hand on his thigh.
“Why wait?” His eyes widened, and he grinned, and suddenly his hand was on mine, bringing it against the huge erection in his pants.
