Chapter 49: Chapter Forty-nine

I can’t help but wonder that if we’d met at a different time and place…would you still treat me the same? You used to be different, back when we first met each other—unapproachable and a bit cruel. I used to fear that if I got too close, I’d turn to ash. But right now, it’s like you’re my lifeline. You’re the blood in my veins; the sun in the sky. Will you still love me as time passes in the blink of an eye?

“Open it.”

At Francine’s urging, I pulled the red ribbon loose and opened the box. Inside sat a beautiful pair of pink flats, a tiny white ribbon adorning them. Pulling the pair out, I admired them before grinning at a proud Francine.

“Thank you so much, Fran! I’m really surprised…”

“Well, who wouldn’t be?” Patton teased, smiling quite sarcastically. “Who knew Francine had a nice taste in shoes! In pink, no less. I thought she'd pick something gothic, black and all.”

A pout made its way onto Francine’s lips. The next thing I knew, Patton was wincing in pain as she flicked his ear.

"And here I thought you liked pink!" She frowned at the man.

"Yes, I liked those heels we saw but I couldn't even ask your opinion with all your whining! You said the pair was ugly! I also noticed that you don't know the difference between heels and sandals—”

"All right! I'm sorry..." Patton sheepishly scratched his head, looking quite apologetic. "It's cool, okay? I'm sorry if I offended you. I like the shoes, but they’re too girly for my taste." He then gave a defensive aura. "And why would you ask me—a man who only wears one pair of shoes for a year—to decide between black heels and these pink ones?"

Rolling her eyes, Francine then turned to me with concern.

"Are the shoes okay? Do they fit your feet? Is the design all right?" I knew she was about to ramble, so I immediately stopped her, shooting her a reassuring smile.

"Yes, they’re beautiful," I assured her, patting her shoulder. They were indeed 'girly' as Patton said, but they weren’t ugly. Now that he mentions it, Chad has his own preference in women's shoes… specifically, high heels. "I'll wear them to work, okay?"

Happy, Francine stuck her tongue out at Patton, who was only admiring her. Even if Francine was drenched from the rain, had fallen leaves stuck in her curly red hair, she would still look like an angel to Patton.

Setting the box and the shoes down, I got up and hugged Francine. "Thanks for the gift, Fran. I like it very much."

Francine giggled. "I'm really glad you liked your birthday gift, Rach. Happy twenty-sixth birthday!"

At the repeated greeting, I hugged her tight and quietly whispered my thanks. Inside, I was softly mourning since I was growing older each passing year and I still hadn’t pursued my passion—just silently. The moment I’d woken up that morning, the sudden thought of growing older had hit me and I was instantly saddened.

I’ll be thirty in less than four years and I still haven’t achieved my dream. Will I be able to pursue my passion then? God knows what happens next…

“By the way, what happened with the case?” Patton inquired softly. “Will those bastards go to jail? Have the police found the mastermind yet?”

“No, not yet,” I replied. “But don’t worry about it. Dad’s lawyer said that it would soon be over and those maniacs would be jailed for life. As for the mastermind…” My words trailed off, and I gave them a small smile. "I hope the police will get new leads and that they’ll get more information from Leonard."

"I hope so." Francine heaved a sigh. "Just thinking about the man gives me the creeps. I can't believe there are people like him running around."

Patton supported her opinion and I couldn't help but giggle at how cute they were. Why can't they just get together already?

"By the way, how are things with that Montgomery dude?"

It was a surprising question, but what made it more shocking was that it was Patton who’d asked. I’d expect Francine to ask that type of question, but never Patton. Even the redhead was astounded. Nevertheless, I shrugged at him, trying to appear like I didn't care.

"Don't know... We didn't talk that much after the incident. We're still business partners, though."

"I see," Patton mumbled. "No wonder he's here tonight."

At the mention of Chad, I leaned forward in interest. "He's here now? I was expecting he'd never come." Lying through my teeth, I continued, "Mom probably invited him and his family."

"Be careful around him, Rachel." Patton's tone went low, warning me. "I get a bad vibe whenever I'm around him. The man's up to no good. He has a reputation with the ladies."

Francine nodded. "He's right, Rach. When you told me you were business partners with this man, I immediately searched him, and just like Patt said, he's a womanizer."

The way they spoke about Chad, despite not knowing the man, made irritation rise within me. How can they say that about him? They don't even know the real him! Keeping my feelings at bay, I respected their opinions but didn't toss my own out in the open. It would be frustrating to explain my side, and besides, they shouldn't know about the relationship Chad and I had.

"Yeah, I know about that too."

"Rachel, you haven't fallen for him...right?" It broke my heart to see how hopeful Francine's eyes were, urging me to tell her no, that I hadn’t fallen for his charms and that I was still hurting because of Nathan.

"She probably did already, Francine," Patton mumbled coherently, playing with the loose thread he’d pulled from the hem of his shirt. "I mean, I have to admit...the man is attractive enough to catch her attention. Not to mention, someone who has the same status as her. I wouldn't be surprised if she fell for him while they spent time together."

Frowning hard, Francine yelled at him for being an idiot, saying that I wasn't dense enough to fall for Chad. "She knows her worth! She won't fall for someone like Nathan..."

S-someone like Nathan? They think Chad...would be like that jackass?

"I know that, Fran," Patton sighed. "But if she likes Chad Montgomery then we got nothing to do about it."

"Oh, so you're saying that he might be a good guy after all? That what you said earlier wasn't true?"

"No..." Patton shook his head. "That's not what I meant. Chad might give me these vibes but—"

"That's enough, guys..." I whispered, not wanting to hear further. Please guys, stop this... You're hurting my feelings...

"Tell me, Rachel," Francine urged. "Tell me you haven't fallen for Chad..."

Why? What was wrong with Chad? I used to think that he was exactly what you're telling me right now, but when I actually got to know him better, I realized he is probably the kindest man I know. Well, not actually the 'kindest', but if I were to choose between him and Nathan, the obvious answer would be Chad.

Instead of telling her what I truly felt, I did exactly what she wanted—even if it hurt my heart. She might take it the wrong way. I'm sorry, Francine. Putting a smile on my face, I shook my head.

"Nope. I don't want to be his plaything."

"See?" Francine smugly smirked at Patton, who stared at us passively. "I told you, didn't I? Rachel will never fall for that man!"

"Fine, whatever you say." Patton surrendered, hands in the air. Happy that she’d won, Francine went back to her cherry self and started telling him jokes. Knowing that my parents couldn't wait to introduce me to their new friends, I excused myself.

"Be there in time, all right?" I grinned at the two of them. "Or you won't get any cake."

Both of them laughed as I turned my back and started heading for the ballroom, where the entertainment was at its peak. The band was playing Jazz tonight, the guests dancing in the center of the room. Patting the skirt of my red one-shoulder dress, I waltzed my way in after plastering a huge smile on my face.

Forget what they said, Rachel. Just ignore what they said. After all, they don't know who Chad really is.

"Ah! There she is, the birthday girl!"

I sharply turned my head as Dad's voice snapped me out of my endless thoughts. He and Mom were surrounded by the usual crowd, men and women with power. But who stood out the most was the Montgomerys—Chad, to be specific. His mom flashed a smile as I walked towards them, Rebecca in her glorious gold dress.

If you ask me, I say she'll be mistaken as the woman celebrating her birthday today because of her outfit. Gold and all.

Chad, staring at me, smirked and gave a wink. Under the makeup I was red as the lipstick the makeup artist had spread on my lips.

"Good evening, everyone," I greeted, kissing Rebecca's cheeks and ignoring the way he was gazing at me. Seriously, Chad? Can you be more obvious?

Keeping my giggles in—which was very hard, to be honest—I returned the pleasantries of the others and when it came to Chad, I secretly smiled. "Glad you could make it, Mr. Montgomery."

"I wouldn't miss your birthday, Miss Maxwell," he said in a low voice, his tone suggesting something else. "You know, I've been looking forward to the activities tonight.."

Mentally rolling my eyes at how dirty he sounded, I knew it was the party he was talking about. The party he’d told me about back in New York City. I'll probably feel awkward there, since I don't know anybody other than Chad.

"Really?" I grinned at him and playfully winked when no one was looking. "Well, we aim to please Mr. Montgomery."

This riled him up, I could tell just by the way his eyes sparkled in excitement. Smirking, I walked away and headed towards the buffet table where Harvey was, as always. The birthday cake Mom ordered was sitting on its stand, the center of attention—well, Harvey's attention, to be exact.

"Wanna take a slice?" I asked, hand on his shoulder. Harvey eagerly nodded, eyeing the delicious-looking dessert. I shook my head and giggled at him. "Well, according to what Mom told me last night, we still have to dance."

"I don't want to dance!" Harvey grumbled, crossing his arms across his chest. "You know that very well. I just want to eat, I'm very hungry."

Well, he does have a point. It's already past nine and we haven't even touched a single dish.

"Okay, go get a slice," I whispered to him. "While you're at it, just grab anything so you won't feel hungry. Just do it silently, Harv...so that no one notices you."

Happy to hear my confirmation, Harvey nodded enthusiastically and grabbed a nearby plate, dashing past me. "Thank you, sis!" I shook my head at the boy, who was currently putting food on his plate.

Really, Harvey...

"Rachel."

I sharply turned around to see it was Chad who had called my name. He suddenly bowed slightly and held out his hand. "Your mother told me to dance with you and I heard that after this dance, we will soon eat, so here I am! Please dance with me, my lady."

"Goodness..." I laughed, taking his hand and deciding to tease him a bit. "Is that what you really want? To dance just because there's food after? Don't you wanna dance with me until the moon says goodbye?"

"Well, I do want to...Miss Maxwell," he sensually whispered, squeezing my hand gently and pulled me close. Doing this, I could smell his familiar cologne and gripped his shoulder. "But I thought we had other things to do?"

The music started slow as Chad led us to the dance floor. A few couples distanced themselves from us, giving us room. I smirked at him.

"Of course, Mr. Montgomery. I know we still have to make our escape. I didn't forget."

"Oh, I believe it's hard for you to forget," he leaned in and whispered. "I can't wait to show you the wild side of a party. I'm guessing you're bored here?"

"Very, Chad."

"Then," he chuckled, "I'm sure you'll enjoy it later."

The dance started slow, just an excuse to talk to each other until the beat of the music accelerated, our feet keeping up with rhythm. The dance floor felt like we were inside a tornado; it was like being in one of those ballroom competitions.

Chad smirked. "What's the matter? Can't keep up?"

"I took dance lessons before, Montgomery." I smugly grinned. "How about you? Tired already?"

"Hell no."

We dance quite passionately, something we often did in bed, and before we knew it, after the music ended...we were flooded with applause. We didn't even break a sweat, too focused on our dance and ourselves. The moment we finished, my feet were aching and wished I hadn’t taken the challenge Chad had thrown, but it was satisfying to see that he appeared quite breathless.

Ha!

"That was a stunning performance, darlings!" Rebecca cheered, throwing her arms around her son. "You really showed them that you guys are on top!"

Chad, who didn't reply to his mother's praise, slowly slipped away from her embrace and went to their table. After that, food was now distributed and everyone—who tried to appear like they weren't hungry but were absolutely famished. Bored, I took a glass of champagne and went out to the balcony to gaze at the city before us, despite how cold it was outside. The man who was standing at the side decided to leave me alone and mingle in the party.

Oh well, alone time for me!

As I was sipping the bubbly drink, my ears picked up footsteps, and the next thing I knew, Chad was standing by my side...holding out a pink box. "Happy birthday, my love."

Fighting a huge smile that was close to surfacing, I put on a frown and narrowed my eyes at his gift. "What is this?" When I was about to shake it, Chad snatched the box from me and gave me an offended look.

"Don't shake it," he chided, "you'll ruin it inside!"

"Okay..." I took the box once again and this time, gave him a smile. "Thank you for this, Chad. I appreciate—"

"You haven't even opened it!" He laughed and motioned to the box. "Open it first and tell me your thoughts after."

All right...

Undoing the ribbon. I opened the box and what greeted my sight was a cupcake with pink frosting, yellow stars decorating it with colorful sprinkles, but what stood out most was the picture of me sleeping soundly, a toothpick below it. It was taken back in New York, after we made love. My eyes were wide as saucers at how cute it was.

"Do you like it?" he asked expectantly. I nodded, amazed at how creative he could get. This is just too adorable!

"It's so cute, Chad! Thank you!" Hugging him, I kissed his cheeks and pulled away to admire the cupcake again. "It's very pink!"

"I'm glad you like it, Rach." He smiled gently. "I baked it myself."

Leaning in, I kissed him briefly before taking a bite out of the cupcake. Moaning in delight, I took another bite. This is delicious!

The creamy filling inside, the moistness, and how it wasn't too sweet just told me how great of a baker he was. "You made this? Were you some kind of baker back in your previous life?"

"Ha, ha, very funny." The cold wind blew and, just as we expected, it started snowing again. The snowplow's hard work earlier was going to be futile. At least the snow we have right now isn't as heavy as we expected. Usually winter is bad here in Cleveland.

Going back inside and shutting the doors to prevent the bitter cold from coming in, I stayed by Chad's side until I finished the cupcake. He put his suit jacket around my shoulders, shielding me from upcoming threats.

"You okay? Not feeling cold, or anything?"

I shook my head and showed him the empty box, pouting. "I finished it! Can I look forward to more of these?"

Chad grinned, proud of himself, and nodded. "You bet!" Then, he scanned the crowd with narrowed eyes.

Alarmed, I tried to do the same to spot who he was searching for. "What's wrong? Found someone suspicious?" I gasped aloud when he suddenly grabbed my hand and dashed towards the front door. "C-Chad! Where are we going?"

He then stopped in his tracks, almost bumping a guest, and faced me with a small smile. "Let's go to the party now, it has begun."

"And you're planning to escape through the front door?" I shook my head and chuckled. "Are you serious, Chad?" Gripping his hand, I pulled it to make him follow me. "We're going to pass through the back. In case you didn't notice, there are guards at the front."

"Of course I noticed them," he whispered softly as we avoided a few house staff. "I actually parked my car outside the gates since we will be going on this escapade... Are you sure we won't be noticed here?"

"Trust me, Chad." I grinned, and pulled him when the chef was going through things in the lower cabinet. "Let's move!" Without another moment to lose, we dashed outside and greeted the snow. Fighting off giggles, I guided him through the garden and pointed up to the small gate. "Here's our exit."

Two men who were lifting a box to carry inside stopped to stare at us as Chad and I walked out in a carefree manner. Once they went back to work and we were through the gate, we made a run for it towards Chad's car. A black Mercedes-Benz E-Class vehicle was waiting patiently for us. Chad took out his keys.

Another car? Just how many cars does he have?

"Where's the red one?"

"Well, I didn't want my baby to get cold, so I left her at home."

I rolled my eyes internally as Chad opened the door for me. "I can't believe that was so easy!" I laughed and got in the car. Chad got behind the wheel and took off his necktie.

"Are you ready for a real party, my lady?" He winked.

The car roared to life, the snow wiped off by the windshield. With one nod from me, Chad maneuvered the car away from the curb and down the icy road.

This is it. No turning back, Rachel. It's time to see what a real party people are throwing these days.