A Passion Rekindled (21 page)

“Scarlett is so different. She is not like any of these girls out here. And I just I don't want to lose her. With Charlene, it was a love that grew from friendship. I felt we had to be together because it was who we were raised to be. But with Scarlett, it was love at first sight. And the more I see of her and am around her it grows every day.”

“It must be love. You actually said Charlene’s name. In all the time you have been separated from her, I heard the girl. The heartbreaker or even her. Now it's Charlene?”

“I think talking about what happened with Scarlett did that.”

Jerome gave Christian a cocked look? “Wait you told her?”

“Yeah I did.”

“And what did she say?”

“That she was sorry that happened to me and that she wanted to erase that hurt for me like I do for her.”

“And how is she at work?”

“Great. She has really came in and made changes for us in a good way as just my secretary.”

“Christian this woman is Beautiful and smart. She is a hard worker and she wants to be with you. I don't think you can find better.”

“You’re right as always.”

“I know. So get over there and cut in. before Romeo makes his move.”

Romeo twirled Scarlett in his arms and she smiled. “You are a really good dancer.”

“And you are beautiful.”

“Thank you.”

Scarlett looked over to Christian and Romeo followed her eyes to him.

“You know I would love to take you out sometime.”

“Oh that would be nice but.”

“No buts.”

He pulled out his card.

“You take this and call me anytime.”

Before she could respond, the song ended and Christian walked over to them.

“May I cut in?”

Scarlett smiled. 

“Sure. It was great talking to you Romeo.”

“You too. Don’t lose my number now.”

“Ok.”

Romeo winked at her as he walked away and Scarlett laughed shaking her head. She turned to sit down but Christian pulled Scarlett in his arms. Scarlett smirked up to Christian.

“Your friend thinks pretty highly of himself.”

“Yeah he always has.”

Christian spun her around in his arms. “You seem to be having fun tonight.”

“I am.”

“So you’re happy I invited you?”

“Yeah it’s been a wonderful evening. I'm sad it’s almost over.”

“Yeah but all good things come to an end.”

“I sure hope not.”

“And why is that?”

“Cause working for you is a good thing I don’t want to come to an end.”

Christian stared her in her eyes she smiled back at him.

“What?”

“Nothing you just look so beautiful tonight. I just.”

Christian placed his lips to hers and gave her a light kiss. She looked at him and allowed him to kiss her again. She wrapped her arms around him as their lips parted. Scarlett smiled as the song ended. Everyone applauded as Christopher Sr. and Helen walked onto the stage. Scarlett was still engrossed in Christian’s eyes.

“What a great night this has been. My beautiful wife and I love to attend this ball because it never ceases to amaze us at how wonderful the turnout is…Benjamin asked me to say a few words before we wrap up this evening. First, I want to once again thank you all for coming out tonight. And second, I want to give a special thank you to my sons. Why don’t you guys come up here? Your beautiful dates too.”

Chris and Jay walked over to the stage as Christian followed. Scarlett still standing in the same place she was. Christian stepped back and grabbed her hand and escorted her to the stage. Chris took the Microphone.

“Five years ago my brother and I decided to create an event that would unify us with you all. We wanted a way to thank all of our supporters, our friends, and staff. So we came up with this Ball as we simply call it. It’s to show the sponsors the donators and all of you that work hard that we appreciate you.”

Christian took the microphone.

“I would also like to recognize Benjamin Wilson our director. He is the one who put everything together tonight…and Mary Wills Catering Company who provided the wonderful food this evening and the band Walter Hill and the Mavericks for the wonderful performance they have given us all night. So seeing as this is the last dance why don’t you grab someone hold them tight and just enjoy their presence because as my mother always says. “Enjoy the here and Now…” I know I will.”

He grinned at Scarlett then looked back at everyone.

“So everyone drive safely and good night.”

Everyone applauded while the band played the last song. Christian escorted Scarlett back to the dance floor. Amber walked over to them.

“May I cut in?”

Christian and Scarlett beamed looking into each other’s eyes.

“I don’t think so. Besides I'm sure your date is looking for you.”

“Sorry Amber. The lady has spoken.”

Amber stormed away. Scarlett beamed still not taking her eyes from Christian’s. He held her tight and placed gentle kisses on her neck.

“What spell do you have me under?”

She pulled back and looked at him. “Huh.”

“There is something about you that drives me crazy. How do you do it?”

“I don’t know? But I feel it too.”

“I don’t want this dance to end.”

“Me either.”

Christian held her tighter and kissed her again. When he pulled away from her, he dipped her. As the song ended, they walked over to the table and grabbed their things. They walked to the limo arm in arm. Chris smirked.

“You two behave yourselves now.”

Jay punched his arm. “Oh stop it.”

After he and Jay hugged Christian and Scarlett, they walked to the limo that he and Christian took earlier. Christian lead Scarlett to the limo she and Jay took and opened the door for her. She got in and Christian followed her. He sat next to her.

“Did you have fun?”

“I had the best time. It was incredible.”

“I'm glad. You look so beautiful I know I keep saying it I just can’t seem to say it enough.”

“Well I didn’t even have to tell you how good you looked. Those women just flocked to you.”

“Yeah but I'm not interested in any of them.”

“So just out of curiosity that are you interested in?”

“You.”

Scarlett looked around the limo. “Christian. I do like you. I like you a lot but.”

“I am not looking for any buts tonight…I'm just looking for a kiss.”

“What?”

“You’re beautiful and smart and I am falling for you. But right now, you need to concentrate on your family first and I respect that. But that is not going to stop me from wanting to kiss you and wanting to be with you more and more.”

“So what's stopping you from kissing me now?”

“Why I have no idea.”

Christian leaned in and grabbed her face with his hands he placed his lips on top of hers and pushed his tongue through them. As his tongue massaged hers she let his hands explore her body. Everything about her drove him crazy. The limo stopped and Scarlett pulled away.

“I think we are at my house.”

“Oh ok…can I come in?”

“I want to say yes so bad but I don’t think so…I think it’s best that we don’t let this go too far too fast.”

“You’re right…can I at least walk you to the door?”

“Yeah I would like that.”

Christian walked her to the door. “So I will see you Monday?”

“Yes you will.”

Scarlett pulled his lips to hers and kissed him. “I had a great time. Thank you for inviting me.”

Her phone went off and she lit up. Christian looked at her.

“Is it Jonah coming to his senses and ruining this for me?”

“Stop it. It was a text from Jay we are going to have lunch Sunday.”

“That’s good. So what are you doing tomorrow?”

“Umm nothing I have the whole weekend to myself remember?”

“Well how about you join me for a movie?”

“Really?”

“Yes so will you go out with me? Please?”

Before she could answer, a gust of wind blew the snow off the roof and onto them and Scarlett screamed.

“Ahhhh that’s cold.”

Christian laughed as he shook off the snow. “See that is what I get for my bad thoughts a cold shower of snow.”

“You better get in the car and warm up.”

“Not until you agree to go out with me.”

“And if I don’t?”

“I will stay out here all night long.”

“Well we can’t have that so ok I guess I can go to the movies with you.”

“Great so I will pick you up at what 2?”

“That will be great gives me enough time to get ready.”

“Ok. I can’t wait to see you tomorrow.”

Christian pulled her to him and kissed her again. “Good night Christian.”

“Good night.”

She placed another light kiss onto his lips then opened her door and walked in. He stood outside for a moment and sighed. He turned to the limo as his phone vibrated. He picked it up.

“Hello.”

“I had a really great time thank you again.”

“Scarlett you know if you want I can turn around and come right back in.”

“Goodnight Christian get home safely ok.”

“Fine. Goodnight.”

He hung up and got into the limo. His phone vibrated again and he answered. “Changed your mind?”

“Why you sound really happy.”

“Hey dad I can’t help but be happy. I feel really good.”

“So where are you?”

“Just dropped my beautiful date off.”

“You guys were the talk of the party.”

Christian stepped into the limo. “Well what can I say it was a really good night?”

“You really have feelings for this one don't you?”

“I do.”

“And she feels the same?”

“I hope.”

“Well I trust you and Chris and if you say these are the women for you then I believe you. But be careful ok I don't want to see you guys hurt.”

“Dad we won’t be. As long as mom keeps up the nice act.”

“Well hey you know your mother.”

“That I do. I just.”

“You just what son?”

“Dad how can I choose between my mom and the woman I am falling in love with?”

“It’s not going to come to that.”

“And how do you know that?”

“Look why don't you and Chris come join me for a game of golf in the morning I think there is something we need to discuss.”

“Ok then I guess I will see you in the morning.”

“Well ok goodnight son.”

“Night dad.”

Chapter 7

Start of something new…

Scarlett walked to the door but checked in the mirror before opening it. She wore a large gray sweater with black leggings. She had on long boots with gray and black fur at the top and little balls that tied. She opened the door and saw Chris standing there. Scarlett stood in surprise.

“Chris. This is a surprise. Come in please.”

She stepped to the side allowing him to enter.

“Scarlett we need to talk.”

“About?”

“You and my brother.”

They sat down and Chris cleared his throat.

“I first wanted to personally thank you.”

“Thank me?”

“You came in here and you made such an impact on this company and my brother.”

Chris pulled out a paper. “This was posted this morning.”

Scarlett took the paper and saw a picture of herself with Christian, Chris, and Jayla from last night. Chris grabbed her hand.

“I have never seen him so happy. He seems so content with his life and so much in love.”

“Love? You think he loves me?”

“Yeah he reminds me of myself when I met Jay. And that is why I need to talk to you.”

“Ok.”

He turned towards Scarlett.

“Scarlett I don't know how to put this so I am just going to say it if you’re going to be here you need to know what you are getting yourself into.”

“Such as?”

“If you want to be in a relationship with Christian then you are going to get phone calls from strange women claiming to have been with him. You are going to have to deal with our mother. And you need to know that we are the job. Work comes first for us.”

“Women actually do that?”

“Christian and I are wealthy. Women want that. But you need to trust what you feel for him. Scarlett I like you. We have always been able to talk and you and Christian are a perfect match. Trust that.”

“I do. It’s just.”

“Just what?”

“I don’t know I guess I just feel like with Jonah this with Christian is going to be short lived. You said Jonah and I would make a good couple too.”

“I introduced you to Jonah because I thought he would be a nice distraction from Christian and whatever happened with that whole situation I am sorry but I do think that you and Christian would be good together and if you feel something for him then give it try. The worse thing that could happen is it doesn’t work out.”

“You are right. Thank you.”

Chris stood. “You are welcome. Now if you will excuse me I need to pick Jayla up before we are late.”

“You really think we are good together?”

“I do you complete him and I get the feeling he does that for you.” Chris hugged her and walked to the door.

“Good luck.”

Chris walked out the door and Scarlett stared at the news clippings. She felt overwhelmed with emotions. She never thought she would meet someone who made her feel the way Christian did. She walked over to the table in the hall and picked up her cell. She dialed and felt at ease as she heard her mother on the other end.

“Hello.”

“Hi mommy.”

“Scarlett, sweetie how are you?”

“Good just checking on you.”

“Oh I'm fine just doing a crossword puzzle.”

“Keeping your mind right huh?”

“Always. So I got a call from Maggie and Angel they are having a great time over Tasha’s.”

“Yeah they are there until Sunday.”

“Scarlett I know you guys are due up here this week but there is something I wanted to talk to you about.”

“What is it mom?”

“Things aren’t looking so good over here.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean just that. They say I should get my affairs in order.”

“Mom no. they are wrong we can get you a second opinion.”

“Scarlett you and I both knew it was going to happen sooner or later.”

“Well I prefer later.”

“Scarlett I am telling you now so that you can be prepared.”

“I can’t lose you mom.”

“Scarlett I have done all I can for you and the kids. I have made my peace with this.”

“But mom.”

“Scar I have to go but we will talk about this soon ok. I love you.”

“Love you too.”

As she hung up the phone, someone knocked on her door and she wiped the tears brimming on her eyes away and opened it. She forced a smile when she saw the dozen roses Christian had in his hands.

“It is freezing out there…wow you look stunning.”

“Oh stop I don’t but you look very handsome. So are you ready for the movies.”

“Not yet. I think I need to warm up.”

Christian shut the door and pulled her into his arms. 

“Why Mr. Waters what do you have up your sleeves?”

“Nothing really I just want to kiss you.”

“So do it already.”

Christian pulled her to him. He kissed her as tenderly as he could then kissed her passionately. He turned her around and pushed her against the door. 

“Christian I think we are going to miss the movie.”

He kissed her neck. “I think I can live with missing the movie as long as I have you to keep me company.”

“You are going to get me in trouble.”

“What’s life without a little bit of trouble?”

“Peace.”

            
 
Christian kissed her again and she pulled him close to her.              

“But if I were to get in trouble…I am glad it’s with you.”

“That means a lot. Now let’s get into some trouble.”

He pulled her to the couch. He kissed her fingers and went to her arms.

“I could kiss you all day.”

She laughed as he pulled her sweater to the side and kissed her shoulder.

“Your skin is so soft and smooth.”

He kissed her neck again then nibbled on her ear.

“I really like you Scarlett you are just fantastic”

“Fantastic huh?”

She sat up and looked at Christian as he frowned at her.

“What’s wrong?”

“What?”

“I see it in your eyes something is wrong.”

“It’s nothing.”

“No it's something.”

“It’s my mom.”

“Scarlett what happened?”

“I called her and she is saying that she doesn’t have that much time.”

“Scarlett I'm so sorry.”

“I am so afraid.”

“It’s going to be ok.”

He pulled her closer to him and she held him. “Thank you for being here for me.”

“Anytime. You know I care about you.”

“You do?”

“Yes I do. I am falling for you so hard.”

“But what about your image?”

“What about it?”

“I work for you.”

“Yeah and? That doesn’t matter to me.”

“Are you sure because I'm not sure I can be what you need me to be.”

“You just be you and you will be all I need.”

“You have made me feel like the most important woman in your life.”

“You are.”

Scarlett brushed his face with her fingers. “You are to me too. At first I didn’t know if you being my boss and boyfriend was going to work but it seems well worth the risk to try. As long as you keep keeping your hands and lips to yourself in the office.”

“Well as you can see I don’t know if I can keep resisting holding you and kissing you?”

“The only way we are going to make this work is if we keep it professional. I don’t want us to interfere with the job I have to do.”

“Ok. I understand. I promise I will be professional at work. As long as I don’t have to be professional outside of work.”

“Oh I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Christian pulled her close to him and kissed her. He held her tight and pulled her on top of him. She kissed down his neck and back up to his lips. He moved his hand up her legs. She pulled away from him. 

“Are you ok?”

“Yeah I just…we should talk.”

The door opened and Devon walked into the room. Scarlett sat up and blushed. Devon looked at them.

“And look at you two looking like two teenagers who just got caught fooling around.”

“I thought you were out for the weekend?”

“I forgot my bag. I will be out of your hair in a second.”

“That’s fine we need to go catch a movie anyways.”

“I'm sure that’s what you guys are doing.”

“We are.”

“Hey you guys are grown you do what you want. Just be careful.”

“Devon. Are you actually giving me the speech?”

“Well Scar I mean I walk in and see you messing around on the couch. I think it’s about time we had that talk. Now I know this may be awkward.”

“Go get your bag you punk.”

“Hey how was last night?”

“See for yourself.”

She handed Devon the newspaper.

“Wow you guys looked great. Scarlett who knew you were hiding under all this.”

“You know what?”

She ran after him and he laughed as he took the stairs three at a time. Christian picked up the paper.

“Wow I can’t believe we are on the front page.”

“Me neither. You look so handsome though.”

“Only because you were standing next to me.”

Christian pulled her to him as Devon came back down stairs.

“Dang guys can’t you at least wait until I leave?”

“Goodbye Devon. I will see you tomorrow.”

They walked out the door and Devon laughed. Christian pulled his 2009 red Porsche 911 GT2 into a hiking trail parking lot.

“Have I said how much I like this car?”

“Yes three times already.”

“I have never been in a car like this. Where are we? This doesn’t look like a movie theater.”

“I thought we could take a detour I wanted to show you something.”

“Ummm ok.”

He pulled into a parking spot and turned off the car.

“Ok get out.”

“What?”

“Come on. Trust me just for a second.”

They stepped out the car and he pulled her close to him.

“I know its cold so stay close to me and I will keep you warm.”

“Where are we going?”

“You ask too many questions why don't you just let someone else lead.”

“What do you mean lead?”

“I mean walk and talk with me.”

She smiled as they started to walk. Christian exhaled gently.

“You told me how much you like the snow and I decided I should show you what Ohio has to offer. When we were younger my dad would bring us here and I just thought you would like it.”

“Ok but why?”

“Look up.”

Scarlett looked up and saw the snow covered trees. She looked around and never in her life saw a more beautiful sight.

“Wow look at it.”

“I know.”

She inhaled the cold winter’s air.

“It takes my breath away. It’s weird how it just falls in place to make this beautiful picture. I wish I had a camera.”

“I know. So have you ever been kissed in such a beautiful place?”

“No will you be my first?”

“I would love too.”

Christian pulled her to him and kissed her. She wrapped her arms around him. She pulled back and smiled.

“You are a mind-blowing kisser.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean you blow my mind with every kiss.”

“Yeah well I have been told that a couple times before.”

“Oh really?”

She picked up some snow and tossed it at him then ran away. She slipped on some ice and fell. He ran over to her and she laughed pulling him down to her. They played till they were
covered in snow. They walked back to the car laughing.

“I am freezing.”

“Me too. I know a way we can warm up,”

Scarlett pushed him away.

“You are so bad.”

“Only for you.”

He pulled her close to him.

“So warm me up baby.”

“How about I cool you down.”

She put a ball of snow down his neck and ran away. He chased after her. He picked her up and spun her around. She screamed as she grabbed his neck.