Chapter 114 Broken sparks
Bridget's arrival was announced by the sharp abrupt click of pricey heels that reverberated throughout the marble foyer.
Standing in the spacious well-lit kitchen still wearing his rumpled dress shirt, Carson poured a second glass of water for himself from the dispenser.
Even before noticing her, he heard the rustle of shopping bags and the door slam.
Balancing four heavy designer shopping bags on one arm, Bridget strolled into the kitchen.
Even though there was no direct sunlight she wore sunglasses on her head and had her hair perfectly coiled.
When she noticed him she stopped.
A broad practiced smile curved her lips.
“Well, look who decided to show up,” she said.
Slowly Carson put down the glass. He had anticipated an outburst of emotion such as a hug, a grievance regarding his absence or a request for a present.
He had a tired evasive response ready for any of these situations.
“Hello Bridget.” He said.
Bridget merely tilted her head and hummed a little song while observing him.
“Hi darling,” she uttered.
With her focus already elsewhere, Bridget just walked past him.
“Don’t just stand there looking rumpled,” she advised. “The brand-new Prada coat isn't hanging up by itself.”
Carelessly, she dropped the bags onto the sleek quartz countertop causing the leather to thud gently.
She then walked to the refrigerator.
“I need a cup of sparkling water,” She said in a cheerful and carefree tone. “The downtown humidity was unbearable and those Jimmy Choos are a nightmare.”
Carson’s jaw gradually tensed as he watched her. He couldn't even speak. He picked up his glass once more and took a trembling breath.
“You don't seem very upset that I was gone.” He said
After taking out a bottle of imported water, Bridget closed the refrigerator door. Using her long polished nail she removed the foil from the cap.
She ignored him.
“Carson,” she said, “Why would I be upset?”
“Because I've been staying at a hotel for two days and I'm your fiancé,” he explained.
He drank some water quickly.
At last she looked him in the eyes, her face showing a slight almost bored expression.
“Oh that. Well what's done is done. Victoria told me everything about the little incident with Annabel so I assumed you needed to lick your wounds.” She said.
A shock of rage shook Carson.
“What did my mother tell you?” He asked.
Bridget crossed her arms and leaned against the counter.
“Your old flame showed up with her bodyguard or whatever he is,” she said adding, that you were too emotional. You handled it poorly and it took you a few days to collect yourself.” Bridget said.
“And you just agreed with that?” He asked.
“Of course, I agreed. Darling, you were acting out.” She said “You were being weak. We don't currently have time for weakness. In two weeks there will be a merger party and I need you to concentrate on the guest list rather than some painful memories.”
The brittle glass of water slipped from his fingers. The kitchen’s air suddenly felt too hot and constricting.
He reflected on Fred's quiet encouraging presence and Annabel’s cool controlled rage.
In contrast Bridget’s casual rejection of his emotions was a slap in the face.
“So you're not angry that I disappeared? You don’t give a damn where I was?” He asked angrily.
Bridget sipped her water slowly and repeatedly.
“Honestly, Carson I don't” she stated. “You had been brooding. I'm bored when you brood. I choose to shop when I'm bored. Look…”she said pointing to the shopping bags.
“You paid for a gorgeous new coat for me. Thank you sweetheart.” She said and blew a kiss.
Carson let the glass fall. With a thunderous smash it struck the floor breaking into a hundred glittering fragments and causing water to splash all over.
He was breathing heavily while standing motionless. Neither did Bridget flinch.
She let out a sigh and cast a mildly annoyed glance down at the mess.
“Oh for heaven’s sake Carson. That is now going to be the responsibility of the housekeeper. Stop being dramatic.” She said,
“You don't love me” He said in a quiet but direct manner.
Bridget arched an exquisitely defined eyebrow.
“Love? We are a partnership sweetheart so what in the world does that have to do with anything? Our families have a history together and we are all safe for the future. That is far more valuable than a passing feeling.” She said,
Carson took a step back from the shattered glass. He was unconcerned about the mess.
He made his way over to the counter’s bags. Reaching into one he took out a box wrapped in tissue. He pulled it open to reveal a pair of absurdly costly diamond earrings.
“Did you really need these?” He asked.
“Need is subjective,” she shrugged. “They were amazing and will look amazing with the gala dress I bought.”
He sighed and closed the box.
He turned to look at her. Although she had perfect beauty her eyes were icy judgmental and completely devoid of warmth.
“You’re tired. Take a nap now.” She said,
With her hands on her hips and her posture rigid with rage she approached him.
He moved toward the door, turning his back on her.
“And where you were going.” She asked.
“Out.” He said. “For a walk.”
She called after him “You should be back before your mum does!”
He remained silent.
He grabbed his briefcase and suit jacket from the banister as he crossed the foyer.
With a soft thump the heavy elaborate wood closed behind him as he left through the front door.
Instead of being a slam, the sound was a period at the conclusion of a long depressing sentence.
A smile crossed Bridget's lips as she watched him leave. She leaned against the counter and crossed her arms across her chest.
“Bunch of stupid fools,” She muttered. “Wait until I'm done with you.”