No Strings Attached

Part 21 : No Strings Attached

"Why would you need that!" I shouted, beyond frustrated with my husband's stupidity, "We live in New York!"

"It's not for me, it's for.... it's for Linda... yeah, it's for Linda."

"Why the hell would Linda need a map of New York City, Riccardo? She grew up in the Bronx!"

"I know but--I -- her niece! That's right, her niece is coming to New York for a couple of months and wanted an easy way to get around."

"Hmm. I see." I detected the lie in Riccardo's tone, "I'll pick it up then."

"Okay honey, see you soon."

He hung up.

Well, wasn't that a weird conversation!

I drove to the local gas station, picked up the map and drove home via the route that Jeremy had taught me. I loved the convenience of the house to the office. Riccardo had chosen well... and the house was so perfect... a house for a family... a family that we'd have sooner than we expected. How could I even consider this?

I pulled up on the gravel drive outside the estate. There were no lights on. That was weird, seeing as Rick had called me from the home number rather than his personal mobile phone. He usually preferred the house to be lit up like a Christmas tree, despite my warning to him about the astronomical light bill.

I walked toward the oak door to find it ajar. I contemplated what could be going on in my mind. Where was Rick? I had to tell him. No matter how negative the reaction could be, I didn't want secrets in our marriage. Sofia had almost ruined it and I wasn't going to let anything break Riccardo and I apart. Not even this baby.

"Rick!" I called, stepping through the living room, swinging the bag that contained the large map as my only weapon, "Rick!"

The house remained eerily silent.

"Riccardo!" I shouted, "You better get out here right now or so help me I will-"

Then I spotted him. My heart skipped a beat and I lost my breath.

The dining room floor was covered in red rose petals and the table too, with a single white rose in a vase in the middle.

He sat at one end, his hair styled to perfection, his cream shirt and diamante cufflinks sparkling under the candles which lit the table.

He stood, a small white cloth thrown over his left arm.

He found his hand at my waist, pulling out my chair and sitting me down before proceeding to take a seat himself.

He disappeared for a few moments before returning with two steaks, sautéed potatoes, asparagus and hollandaise sauce. One for himself and one for me.

I cut open the steak and began to eat in small amounts, "So. What was that map all about?"

He smiled, reaching across the table and pouring us both a glass of white wine, "That was just a ploy as you've probably guessed by now."

Crap. The wine.

"Hm!" I replied, staring at the wine, "I foiled your plan when I realised you called from the home number."

He patted his head, "Damn! You're just too good for me Kim."

I giggled.

"I just wanted to do something special for you, baby." My heart froze, "you've been so stressed recently," and started again, "And I know I've been working you hard on this case."

"Riccardo, it's fine, I promise. I would tell you if it was otherwise."

"You never cease to amaze me, Kimberley Alonso. You are so unbelievably strong." He kissed my hand, "Tell me about your day." He enquired.

I sighed, "You know. The same old."

"How's the Whyte & Browns case going?"

I shook my head, "That scheming b****rd Ryan Drake sinks his claws in again. I'm shocked by his complete incompetence and inability to string a sentence together, yet he still managed to win over the court!"

He sighed, "What do you expect? He's just a kid with a pretty face. The jurors will eat his little act right up."

"He's a leech. Keeps making disgusting comments. He also needs to keep his hands to himself. One of these days I'll just have to give him a slap."

Rick frowned, "You know how I feel about that. I'll have...well, we'll have words..."

I smiled, Riccardo's possessive streak so obviously coming through. He'd been jealous enough seeing Ryan Drake as my escort to the Attorney's Ball, but now I was arguing against him? Riccardo's temper was livid. "Enough about my day."

He raked his hand through his hair, "If you're done."

He stood up and sat on the sofa by the fire, gesturing next to him.

I took the seat next to him.

"Rick. What are you up to?" I asked.

His finger traced across my cheek as he looked into my eyes before kissing me intensely.

"Nothing. I just want to show you how much I love you, sweetheart." His lips coaxed mine open.

My desire seemed to equal his, as one hand fell to my neck as the other ran through my hair, then his hand was caressing my thigh, moving up and down as we kissed.

But what about the_____?

His hand was around my back, undoing the zip slowly as he continually kissed me. I found myself undoing the cream shirt as he pinned me against his chest.

Stop Kimberley! Remember what happened the last time you were in this situation!? You just happened to get yourself into this predicament!

I pulled away from him as he gave me a tortuous and confused look, "What's up Kim?"

I had to do this! Time for some Dutch courage!

"Rick," I gulped, "I'm-- I'm pregnant."

************************************************************************************************************

How will Rick react to the news? What about Kimberley and her decision? READ, VOTE, COMMENT! :)