ESCAPE

Chapter 50

HARRY

Valentina wouldn't even look at me and it made me feel miserable. The second we had gotten into the car, she had seated herself far away from me and faced the window.

From time to time though I would notice her dab the handkerchief at her eyes and it hurt me to know that I was to blame.

I had screwed up badly.

'Harry we're almost there', said Paul from the front seat and I hummed in response.

Management had made it clear that there would be tight security and they had also 'leaked' news of our 'date'. I just hoped the rest of the night would be peaceful.

'Val', I called.

No response.

'Look, I understand that you're angry at me, but right now you really have no choice but to let me help you tonight', I said and she slowly turned to face me; reluctantly might I add.

'Remember that night we went shopping?', I asked hoping that it would stir some good vibes in her mind.

She finally looked up to meet my eyes and she nodded.

'Remember the paps?', and she nodded again.

'Well there's going to lots of them tonight and I want you to be prepared', I explained.

She continued to look at me and it felt like I was being scanned.

'I want you to stay close to me and hold my hand', I said.

That made her snap out of her trance.

'You really don't have a choice, you'll be pushed by them and I don't want any of that', I said sternly and she nodded again.

I sighed, this was going to be a long night.

The car stopped in front of the famous restaurant and I waited for Paul to clear the paps. He then opened the door for me and I swiftly got out.

The camera flashes blinded me so I looked down and turned to help Valentina out.

'Come on', I said putting up a show selling smile as I offered my hand to her.

I watched as she timidly approached me but I was shocked as I saw her expression when she stepped out of the car.

There was no trace of her rage or tears, just sheer joy and I was stunned as she looked at me with affection.

She stepped out gracefully, her arm tucked into mine and she smiled at me that for a second I was confused if she had swapped with a body double.

I quickly recovered from shock and allowed Paul to lead us to the entrance.

'Well that's over', I said as we entered and almost immediately her hand left mine.

I smirked as I realized that she was simply tolerating the entire thing, but damn this girl could act.

She even held my hand as the waiter lead us to our table which was smack centre of the entire restaurant.

Why should I even be surprised?

As soon as we were alone, Valentina returned to her moody self and I sighed.

'Will you hear me out?', I asked and she looked at me with an expression that dared me to try her but I was willing to take the risk.

'First of all, nothing that I said was personal', I said and she tilted her head at me.

'I mean it. I didn't mean to hurt you or make you feel like I didn't want anything to do with you', I said.