Ambivalent

Chapter 16: Winter

I stared at my phone screen as if some phantom is emerging out of it. It displayed a call. A call from Richard. I don't know what I have done to receive such attention from Lord Richard.

Clearing my throat, I received his call.

"Yes."

I answered professionally, as I always did.

"Momma and Dad will be visiting me tonight for dinner. I need your presence."

Even he spoke the fact that only mattered, skipping all the formalities and wishes.

"But I will get off by seven in the evening."

"No problem. I will tell them you are off to meet some friends."

"Oh! Okay thank you."

I was about to hang up when he spoke again.

"I will come to pick you up."

"No it's alright. I will come on...."

"What do you think my parents will thinks if you return home by yourself riding bus, while I enjoy cozy time at home."

He cut me off in between. And I was dumbfounded. He is actually correct.

"I don't want them to doubt."

Well Richard, believe me neither do I.

"And if they have any doubt, even if its for a little bit, you know what will happen? They will directly contact your parents. Do you.."

"I know, I know."

I shouted. Something have got on my nerve recently, for me to be acting all riled up. Whereas in general, I don't loose my composure.

"Fine. When you arrive, do give me a call."

He hung up from the other end. Only if I can beat shit out of this spoiled bastard.

I got back in my work, recently days in office have turned easier for me. Theodore have been acting normal, he didn't approached me, neither misbehaved with me. I don't know, what have got in him, but what ever pixie dust is sprinkled on him, I wish it's influence acts on him for the time being I am here. After some time, I noticed Theodore's cabin's door open and he came in picture. I stood up abruptly from my seat. He was heading towards board room for meeting. Halting on his track, and turning back he came back to me.

"Mmm. Actually tonight I am free. If you don't have any plans.."

I kept looking at him. Theodore, this is a really- really wrong move. We...

"..Would you like to dine with me?"

I stood up from my seat, slowly. Hesitatingly I tucked my hairs behind my ear and twiddling my fingers, I pursed my lips. I don't know, how to refuse his offer? How can I refuse him?

"Actually, Sir.."

He flinched a little on my way to address him

"..I have some plans for the night."

"Oh!"

Just a simple reply and he walked back to his cabin. While I, slumped back on my seat and pulled my hairs. Sighing I got back in my work. At times I did glanced back at his close door, but he didn't re appeared after that.

Good, he need to understand. I am about to marry another man. And it will be better as soon as possible this piece of information seep in his head.

But the question is, would I had still declined his offer if I didn't had any prior commitments? Or would I had accepted it, for sake of my lingering feelings for him.