Happy Forever Wednesday!
Well I know I'm late with the Forever update but lately life was being hard on me.
Apologies to keep you waiting.
*Another thing is that, I know many of you want 'Gidiera' moments but it's kind of impossible to do that in 'every chapter'. They'll be together with their spicy interactions to heal and steal each other but not in 'Every Chapter'.
Since the story has to be followed. But once it'll reach the point, you'll get many 'Gideira' moments to enjoy and cherish.*
*Author's Note*
The sequence related to the mails and the consequences described could be a little confusing. Please feel free to contact me in case of any query. Thank you.
***
"I want you to have big dreams, big goals. I want you to strive to achieve them. But I don't want to see you beating yourself up every time you make a mistake."
— Kelley Armstrong, The Gathering
***
In the last chapter of Someone's Forever
[Expectations Unexpected]
Niera's POV
"Take care." He wrapped the call and I sat shooting steely glares at phone,
Don't blame him Miss.
He has already suffered a lot because of you! My humanity cells chided.
I sighed nodding before a folder named 'Greefy Inc.' caught my resigned gaze.
What is it doing here?
I asked myself before reaching for it across the desk.
Opening it I found the incomplete documents of the deal Greefy Inc. had with 'A V Inc.'
My heart sank with the pounding hammers on my conscious mind reverberated around as my shameful mistake which was the reason I am stuck here.
Of course the pure ruthless reminder of my delinquency is back to bury me in the guilt of my deeds.
But how this file came here?
As far as I remember, I left it with Jerry; then what is it doing here? Or more precisely how it came here because as I remember I left it with Jerry and Sir Gerard the day I accepted the deal. After that day, it never caught my eye, Jerry never returned it because I asked him. My mind processed the situation and deep furor lines took place in my fine forehead.
Perhaps, Jerry!
He might have left it here?
But then why does he need it? Now this file or the misapprehension means nothing until I receive those legal credentials, the why and what these documents are doing at my place?
Nothing worth answering crossed my mind in relation of this folder as I threw it away on the other side of the huge chrome glass desk, it bounced and settled there leisurely, much to my announced.
Wait until I get those credentials, then I'll very politely throw the proofs of our honesty on their desk and fly back home.
Just wait until get the hold of those.
But when? My impatient blood cells winced.
That remind me, I don't know.
Then know. I received a fierce response.
To find out I have to call Mr. Wilson.
Then call him dufus!
It's been days from my last conversation with Mr. Wilson. It was last when he finally showed his displeasure and disappointment in my act when I disclosed about the blunder my delinquency caused.
I heaved a sigh, resigned at my trail of thoughts.
What shall I do? This proposition is getting tougher day by day.
I feel trapped here with new things, new puzzles, new people their abnormal mystified riddles and then this feeling of belonging.
Breaking the trail of those imperceptible derailing thoughts, I decided to make a call to my Boss who must be scratching his bald scalp by now.
Seriously?
You think Mr. Wilson would go bald just by the worry. That to yours'? My smart part stated with a pinch of sarcasm.
I gave it a thought as my Boss's mature yet witty face flashed in front of my eyes forcing me to reconsider my own words.
Nah! Not bald but I'm sure he would have done this act of worry to others'. My conscience sighed.
Breaking free from the conflict conscience I made my decision to check upon my boss or more precisely on the people working around my boss.
Rising up from the sinking position I pulled my shoulders up which seems very much reluctant as the thought of calling my Boss but then my sanity has the ultimate command.
Bracing myself mentally, I started my search for my baby. The small box of wonder was under the heavy weight of a folder.
Lifting the folder, I cradle the device in my palm before unlocking it.
The smirking face of my lifeline flashed in front of me but a long series of notifications were hiding it away.
Groaning inwardly, I decide to go through them but my groan turned into growl when a popped notification caught my attention.
Cryptic friend!
Mail from Cryptic friend!
My insides were already frustrated drenched in petrol and this mail had the match stick to ignite my polite demeanor into flames.
Grrr!!!
Urgh!!!
Absolute fury flood through me as I glared at the name flashing on my screen hiding Prince's face from my view.
"That's it. I think I waited enough." I announced out loud; my voice reached clear to me.
Taking a deep breath, I calm my racing rage on my impatient veins before sanity came out in sunlight.
Le's answer him!
But formally! Sanity muttered and mind agreed.
Drinking the water from the glass placed on my desk, I engrossed myself composing the mail.
From: Niera W
Subject: Sending mails on wrong address
Date: November 19 2016 06:22 PM
To: Cryptic Friend
Hello,
I'm sending you this mail to inform you about some mistake in your recipient's address. Apologies for the late response but I would like to inform you that the mails you're sending on this mailing address don't belong to your Genius Friend.
It would be appreciated if you check the mailing address once again and stop mailing here.
Thank you
Regards,
Not your Genius.
I intentionally didn't mention my name below.
Very smart!
My mind was rereading the same mail as it tagged as sent before my gaze went tired to look at the screen. Disposing the device on desk, my tired eyes went on Spectacles hunt.
After the lost in mess of memory event of Jungle, my eyes are unable to take long stressful tours of life. They tend to water and get tired.
Side effects of being Reckless! Sanity snarled and I gritted my jaws.
I found the glass and put them on and let my eyes adjust to the clarity of world in glasses.
But my trip to wonderland clear world interrupted with the ping of my baby mobile.
Frowning, I checked it and the notification made my jaws drop on my lap as I found myself drenched with absolute fury and aggression.
I gave a pointed look at the screen before with destructive force, opening the mail from the Cryptic Friend.
Man, I am so going to strangle this sender.
Kick him to Krypton planet.
Disregarding the comment of my insanity, I proceeded to read the uninvited mail.
From: Your Cryptic Friend
Subject: Right address, wrong move.
Date: November 19 2016 06:29 PM
To: Niera W
Miss. Genius,
Indeed you made me think of your abilities. I'm starting to reconsider the facts of your skills and intelligence.
Miss Genius, from the content you sent me as the first response on my series of mails, I came across the fact that you haven't read or even paid attention toward my previous two mails.
Not a wise step on your part. I'm disappointed.
Impulsiveness is not a right step when you deal in risk.
But since it's your response that me happy, I'll let pass it this time. But before you compose another mail of your absurdness, read the mails and the attachment this one have.
You won't behave immature after that, I'm sure.
I hope you'll reply very soon.
Have a great day.
No, have a great evening.
Your Cryptic Friend,
A correct sender to a right address.
I read and reread the mail digesting the words well written on the screen.
There was a vague sense of uneasiness that gripped me into it while I read the mail concocting the meaning out of such simple sentence.
He says that the address is right, the sender is confident of this.
Then who is he and why he is sending such terrifying mails to me?
How I'm his friend?
His previous mails stated that he and I, we share a common benefit but how and what benefit I have and where?
This is frustratingly terrifying.
Petrifying!
My mind lost the ability to comprehend as my sanity was losing itself in the mail.
Too blank to comprehend I sat there holding my mobile in my palm; clutching the device in my shivering palms.
After minutes of composing myself and my haywire Blank conscience, I again activated the mobile screen and went through the mail and opened the attachment but then my mobile had to show the tantrum.
The content weren't supportive to my device.
Shooting an annoying glance at my device I fired the laptop on the desk, cursing my foolishness of leaving my laptop at Motel.
The engine fired and went straight to the mails, punching the details; I opened his mail and went straight through the attachment.
The document opened and the vision stilled. Once my eyes went through the attachments, my blood froze in my streams as my body went numb with my mind.
The once acquired calmness I had in me washed away after the screen in front of me displayed the shaking matter.
How could this be possible? Every fragment working in my brain was asking this but I had no answer.
Nothing was clear but one thing was crystal clear.
This is unexpected!
***
NIERA'S POV
If there is calmness then there is storm, if there is happiness then there is agony;
When you least expect it, the life has the ability to shock you in the most unexpected way.
That's where the phrase makes sense, "Expect the Unexpected".
When I finally found the tunnel to get out of this maze, the way out of this dreadful phase was in front of me. Darkness again surrounded me, like the misty forest of distraction was now in between me and the end of tunnel.
Again I'm in deep waters!
Eyes still transfixed on the wide screen of the laptop, my blood was frozen in my streams while only the loud thumping of my heart was resonating around my auditory nerves, but anything else was numb still and blur.
My surroundings went vague, unclear as the gravity of the situation made a clear appearance to me.
The content of the attachment were enough to bring havoc in my present but not only that, my future with my company's is also at stake.
My eyes couldn't handle the stress; they opted to blink before again, my gaze ran through the screen to confirm the well defined evidence of doom.
How is it possible?
This can't be possible.
My conscience was whispering incessantly; trying to deny the fact presented in front of me.
I had to gulp down the bile of panic rising inside my throat as I went through the attachments again and again.
With petrifaction gripping my chest, I averted my gaze from the horror defining screen.
The file of Greefy Inc. which was until now, a reminder for me to fix my delinquent actions was now represented nothing but a sinking ship of hope.
How is that possible?
I shifted my gaze back at the laptop, the huge screen proclaiming my unexpected bizarre.
The deal papers of Greefy Inc. and A V Inc. were displayed on the screen, which were supposed to be concealed in the security. The deal deed was flaunting on the laptop screen.
Sweat beads started to form on my neck as my palms went damp, soaked in anxiety or sweat, I can't comprehend.
Not only this, each new page was a new electrifying attack, clicking on next page, I found the discreet details of misapprehension which we dug from the details when I was there. Jason and I went through the core to get the details which could prove our innocence.
How is that possible?
The details were highly classified and they were meant to be handled to the authorized parties with one copy with Xerox was handed over to me when I agreed to come over here.
Now the sweat beads went violent as they trail down my neck surface.
With the series of pages, I could only find that the whole attachment was the documents of the deal and misapprehension which Jason and I prepared for this visit.
But how?
How is it even possible?
They can't be leaked, it'll bring only disaster.
Disaster!
Not only to Greefy Inc. but if A V Inc. came to know this, they'll sue and bury us to the mantle of the earth.
My harsh breathing went shallow at realization.
And god forbids; if this comes to media, then it'll destroy the prestige of both companies, not only that all the concerned parties will be under the legal fragmentation.
Mr. Valentine will personally kill us all, especially and foremost you. My superstitious conscience whispered to itself.
This isn't all! I ranted: this isn't all!
I'll be doomed; both of them will take legal actions against me because I'm in between them.
Mr. Wilson will frame me to the fault to slip away from the disaster.
Mr. Valentine is already taking the risk to plant me in his company; this revelation will cause him severe damage not only from outside but from insides of A V Inc.
Oh god! What is happening?
As the possibilities and consequences flooded through me, I found myself going numb and still. Nothing, not even a single sense in me was working but an overwhelming burden was burying me into a deep pit.
But one question is still there, how this information leaked? An active cell inside my stilled mind worked up.
Yes, how? Rationality woke up from a deep slumber.
These documents are our research on this project; they are the same copies which we were prepared. It means,
It means they are leaked from Greefy Inc.
Realization hit me through the buckets of acetone.
At that moment, my senses went blur while I fought back the dizziness which was overpowering me as the gravity of situation settled over me.
This is bad!
No, no. this isn't possible how it could be?
This is not possible. A part of me was ready to accept it.
The evidences are in front of you. How you can even deny the facts which are flaunting on front of your own eyes. Sanity tried to put sense.
No, this can't be. There must be some trick.
Yes, there could be but then, it has happened only in Greefy Inc. there is a loophole but in Greefy Inc. It enunciated further.
Someone has been sold; they sell out the credentials out.
Nothing made sense at the same time everything was clear.
But how someone would do that?
Why?
The main question arise here is why not how?
My mind was busy sweeping the residuals of my sanity, trying to rebuild the consciousness of the present just to find the answer but it was all scattered with the notification tune of my mobile.
Startled with sudden un-notified sound, I drifted my gaze at the resting mobile on my desk.
Palpitating, I reached for the device, at the same time; the notification of new mail notified me on the laptop in front of me.
Too occupied to spare a glance, I rushed toward the mobile while fixing my gaze at the screen.
Multitasking never was your forte!
I unlocked the device only to find the smirking face of Prince which was again hindered by the notification of new mail.
My breath caught in my lungs, as windpipe refused to take in the nitrogen combined oxygen inside the respiration system.
Another mail from Cryptic Friend.
With mammoth effort, I tried to gain the confidence to open it but an impulsive nerve in me was desperate to find his next strike.
Drawing a deep breath from surroundings, I swipe open the mail.
From: Cryptic Friend
Subject: Got tired from waiting.
Time: November 19 2016 07:39 PM
To: Niera W
With your impulsiveness, I have noted you take time to respond. Contradicting traits, I must say.
But then people don't call you genius for no reason, am I right Miss. Genius?
From the amount of time you took to answer me, I surmise you have read the attachments carefully and now you must be concocting a rescue plan for your company and yourself.
My advice: don't.
If you had a leak to run away, I would never approach you, my friend.
Since you are completely trapped, I wander what can help you?
Me! Of Course, by now you know the reach I hold and the nerve, your nerve I hold.
But don't worry what are friends for, right?
Take rest and relax Miss. Genius.
We'll come in contact soon.
Your Cryptic Friend.
The whole mail was dis-ordinated but my gaze was focused on only one precise line.
You are completely trapped!
My limps went cold.
How well he is aware of this condition?
The mail was so confusing and conflicting, it took me two reads to search out the meaning it holds. But the question remains same.
But my question is what?
What does he want? Sanity was seeking answers but this mail gave none.
Now what?
Ask him. I received a sane response.
Taking the advice of my sane cells, I reached out for the laptop; taking a deep breath, I composed myself first then composing the mail.
From: Niera W
Subject: Questions.
Date: November 19 2016 07:49 PM
To: Cryptic Friend
What do you want?
Who are you?
Why you're sending me this?
I sent the mail, the next moment. Only questions I jotted down with furious mind and fierce sanity. Nothing was making sense but at the same time, it felt like things were in front of me.
Like a mirage in desert of snow.
Though, I didn't have to wait. While my mind was busy taking a recap of those documents and their connections, the ping of my mobile remind me that I have to suffer in reality.
With another sigh, I went straight to the laptop screen because I knew it was the response of my 'God knows which Friend.'
My wild guess went straight on the red dot when the name flashed on the screen.
Cryptic Friend!
With a plain blank face, I opened the mail because I knew my answers weren't going to meet me but I was hoping for some clues.
Biting my lower lip, I almost drew blood while reading the contents.
From: Cryptic Friend
Subject: Too impatient
Date: November 16 2016 07:51 PM
To: Niera W
Too impatient are we? But I'm afraid you'll have to wait.
Well to answer it, I'm your Cryptic Friend.
We are friends in benefit.
I have a motive to help you out which eventually will be in my benefit.
Simple.
You'll know it soon. For now, I want you to enjoy your day.
But be careful of your surroundings, this must stay between us as secrecy is our prime rule.
Have a charming evening, Miss Genius.
Your Cryptic Friend.
Whether to throw myself in the fire of hell or strangle the man to death, it was the prime dilemma which surrounded me after reading this mail.
His mail contained nothing, not even a single clue.
Perhaps it does.
My intellectual power kicked in and with furrow brow I went through it again.
He said he'll let me soon.
I'm pretty sure it is about the deal and misapprehension the two companies hold and he has his benefit in that deal.
But the crucial question here is 'How'?
What could one get with this deal? If this get disclosed in media I along with Greefy Inc. will be doomed and it'll be a huge blow to the prestige of A V Inc. but what this man, this cryptic Friend will achieve from this deal.
As far as I know this deal can get no benefit to anyone but only lose to the two companies.
Then why?
Perhaps whosoever he is wants to bring the company down.
He wants the A V Inc. or Greefy's to get destroyed.
Fair point well made.
Now the question is which one? The question came to my mind like storm in Calm Ocean and all I could do was to throw myself in the depth of possibilities of the vendetta one can hold against two companies.
Well not to be intruding, why only you are consuming your 50 grams brain into this. If this problem is going to harm both the companies then why only you are wasting our ever enormous brain cells into this alone.
I considered the comment, before conscience shaken its light head.
No this is too much. I need to put myself in sane condition first then I should communicate it anyone.
Or you know with whom you should share this mess. A well known part inside me raised his perfect brow while commenting.
Leaning back a little, I sank further in the comforting seat, my gaze meeting the white illuminating ceiling as I heaved a resigned breath.
Right I think I know where and with whom I should share this before anyone else.
I close my eyes, letting them get their share of relaxation but my mind was not resting, not even any part of my brain was at rest in fact there was a turmoil rising inside which was breaking the bond of my residual calm.
The commotion of the door brought me out of my lost world.
I felt the urge to open the eyes but my stubborn conscience was not considering enough.
"Niera!" Jerry's gentle call made me open my tired eyes.
I straightened on the seat with mammoth resigned efforts.
My exasperated gaze met Jerry's concerned one which ultimately made me sigh.
Focus Niera!
This stress won't take you anywhere. My brain cells advised with sympathy; all I could do was accepting the wise advice.
I forced a smile at him before gesturing to take a seat.
"You okay?' he asked as he took the seat, depositing his bag on the table aside.
"Yes, I'm." I dragged my lips to invent a smile but that stubborn organ has no courtesy.
He took his time which was approximately sixteen seconds to accept my words.
"So you done with your work?" I asked as changing the topic and diverting his mind from me was my prime motive of the moment.
"Yea—h! Finally." He answered; dragging his words out.
I ran a critical investigatory look over Jerry's tired body.
His face was wrinkled with form lines which I almost read as his exhausted state ruling over him, his shirt was a little wrinkled as well, I take it as he was super engrossed in his work to take care of his looks.
His gentle face was gentle with no doubt but he looked stressed.
Such a lovely, descriptive inspection darling!
Marvelous! My subconscious sneered with saccharin tone.
Without paying much attention to it, I focused on Jerry.
"Is everything fine, Jerry?" I asked; offering water glass to his about to fall in slumber resigned figure.
"Yes, just tired. Today was hectic." He answered; taking the offered glass.
"Indeed." I murmured more to myself than him.
Jerry drank his water while I willingly flooded back in my lost world.
Out of blue a question popped my slow mind and announced it to Jerry, "How about Mrs. Martha, how is she? Any improvements?"
I asked but the next moment I realized the gravity of my words and my gaze snapped at Jerry, who thankfully deposed his glass on the desk and now sat wide eyes at my query.
Thank goodness, another spitting water event won't go good with my mind.
He cleared his throat quite uncomfortably before doing strange neck exercise. "Yeah. She is doing good." He answered looking lost.
I frowned before my eyes narrowed.
"She is doing good?" I repeated his informative statement in an interrogative sentence.
Wasn't she supposed to be recovering or like?
"Yeah! I mean the same Niera. She is doing good, taking treatment and she'll be fine soon." He enunciated broadly in rush.
I bit my lip, stress and a strange kind of fear was crawling over my spine I don't know what and how but I found myself dreading the thought to go back there at the motel.
Alone!
Again, I have to stay there; this time alone. Anxiety dominated my mind as a wave of petrification claimed me.
"Will Mr. Albert—"
"Don't worry. He is there with her." He cut me off answering; removing the crease of his wrist.
The residuals of hope were crashed them and there with Jerry's announcement but I tried brave to conceal them through a mask.
"Oh! That's great, I'm glad he is taking care of her." I muttered; maintaining the same smile. I averted my eyes; not wanting him to read the glimpse of my worry.
"Yes. He is and we'll yours." Jerry announced leaning forward making me baffled completely.
I shot my eyes to him, perplexed.
Utterly perplexed.
"What?" I squeak. Utterly puzzled but a string of positive excitement was rolling off me.
"Tiara told me, ordered me to be precise to take care of her Aunt Bambi and now we will accompany you tonight. She wants to spend more Girl Time with you. I hope you won't mind." He asked softly; expectantly.
Mind? Is he insane?
I sat still for a moment before leaping in excitement.
"Thank you Jerry. You both are a Saviour." I exclaimed clapping my hand in relief, excitement and self assurance.
Hearing this, his genuine smile grew and his eyes gentle like water, twinkled in spark.
"Really I thought you already had a Gorgeous Saviour?" he wriggled his brows, speaking.
A very warm flush adorned my neck and cheeks; they graced themselves with the tint making me warm.
Stupid blush!
I blushed looking away.
"Can we please stop talking about that?" I muttered through tight jaws.
"Um! Sure. We'll talk about your 'Gorgeous Saviour' later." He grinned; mirth dangling his eyes.
Come on! Why?
No, I don't want to.
"Well, not happening." He stated; looking helpless; shrugging his broad shoulders.
I blushed deeper but this time the crimson of annoyance was mixed with the bright pink.
'Whatever' I mouthed and he grinned.
"But Jerry you don't have to—" I spoke; I didn't want them to be bothered because of me.
"Niera." He heaved a sigh before continuing.
"I can't let you stay there alone, it's not an option." He stated.
'Majesty will shred me into pieces after I'll tell him about last night.' He muttered under his breath.
"What did you just said?" I asked; narrowing my puzzled gaze at him.
"No—Nothing. You heard something?" he asked stuttering asking.
"Um! A little."
"Never mind." He brushed the topic off.
"Shall I use your Laptop, I have to—Oh! Let me get mine." He muttered; rising from his seat.
His smile didn't subtle; but his tired from made me frown.
Man, why my friend works so much.
I still wonder, people don't work here, its a few faces work here.
Yup, and Jerry is the one who does almost the entire work.
Why so?
Because I never see others this tired, exhausted and spent. My conscience made sense but it was all nonsense.
Shaking it all away, I focused on Jerry who was half way through the chair in his standing job.
"Jerry! It's fine. You can us mine." I offered rising from my seat.
"Thank you, you can just turn it." he said gratefully and suggesting the same time.
Smart fellow.
Right duffer!
I sat back on chair while shifting my gaze to the wide open screen.
Once looking at the screen other emotions and the plastic smile left my conscience and the dread of present condition gripped my throat with threat.
The mail from the Cryptic Friend!
I'm sure my emotions and fear slipped as Jerry's call resonated, reaching my auditory nerves.
"Niera!"
"Um! Yea—ah!" I answered; dis-ordinated; my gaze went to him, tearing away from the screen.
"What happened?" Jerry asked his eyes had concern and all his other senses were on high alert like a soldier sat attentive for war call.
Too blank to utter a reasonable criticism I blinked once before shaking my head negative.
"Noth—ing." I tried to sound normal but my uncooperative tongue was on the verge of spilling the secret.
"Why would you ask that?" I defensively asked out.
You have the strength to ask out Niera?
"Because you're pale as ghost and blanched." He stated nonchalantly; his answer was honest and I had no question over it as I knew I must be looking exactly like Twilight cast.
Vampire you meant?
Quite accurate.
"Should I be worried Niera?" he asked concerned and worried.
Not this time Jerry. Because what this time I'm facing is not connected with you, this place or Mr. Valentine. This is far from this place; this new ghost has risen from back home.
And this time, I have to face it alone.
Sighing softly, I tried to form a tight smile which was a vain attempt in front of Jerry who sees me as an open book or perhaps I'm an open book for everyone.
Stretching my lips in what people call a smile, I spoke "No Jerry. Not this time."
He didn't press but his suspicious disappointed eyes told me he isn't accepting either.
"You kn—" his next set of words were left mid sentence when the artificial light of the cabin went of haywire dance form.
The light bulbs situated on the false ceilings were diming and illuminating in a deranged manner like dancing on an alien tune.
Voltage fluctuation?
"Um!" I could only utter in the dimming dancing surroundings whether my company stood still and statue-ish beside me.
Voltage fluctuation in A V Inc.?
Seems like something is terribly wrong.
My mind was unable to concoct something reasonable but the cause would be given to the bewildering and shocking series of events happened to me.
I frowning perplexed gaze went to look over my friend who was representing himself as the proud part of Madame Tussauds.
Your point?
He is still and stiff as Wax Statue.
Could have done something better. My overacting mind had to flaunt criticism.
Focus Dufus!
Pursing my lips in a thin line, I directed my concentration back at my statue Friend.
I squinted my eyes to look at his face which was now a perfect example for the Idiom, 'Pale as Ghost'.
What happened to him all of a sudden?
The dazzling, diming dance of light was annoying and about that the quizzical questioning stance of Jerry was giving me head ache.
"Jerry?" I called him a little aloud only to find a deafening silence in return.
I sighed; seems like I am about deal with a startled Jerry.
"Jerry!" I called again and this time his eyes fluttered, blinked and then they with the help of neck muscles, moved only to reach my quizzical gaze.
"What happened? And what's this?" I fired the series of queries; gesturing toward the dancing in errant beats lights of ceiling and lamps.
He was silent for a moment before with sweat drenched forehead he wet his lips and answered.
"Don't know." He whispered almost inaudible.
What kind of stupid question is this? Of course voltage fluctuation!
Then why I have this unsettling feeling crawling on my conscience?
I asked myself but no answer met me.
"I think w—e we should leave." He stuttered announcing. He face was flushed red with fear rolling off in waves.
No he is petrified!
My brisk brief question is why?
"But you wanted to use the Laptop." I whisper asked frowning; waving my hand in gestures.
Right?
My face crumbled but he had no caterpillar running over his ears.
"I think the work can be done from home—motel. It's getting late." He announced reaching for his folders and jackets which he disposed on the couch nearby.
"Okay." I murmured; taking his lead; following him with my mobile baby in hand.
The scenario of the whole floor was the same; light sources flittering around the corridor, giving the whole place a look of Disco club.
Shut up!
Without asking any verbal question, I followed Jerry to the elevator while my face was crumbled in scowl and mind brimming in confusions.
But being a helping caring and amazing friend, Jerry with all his heart and wit, ignored me.
With the same eerie silence and disco fiasco of electricity, we made toward the front desk, the reception with respect to our late exit was completely deserted apart from one female receptionist who was too engrossed in her phone call to even notice the disturbance in electricity.
Or she is calling the technicians for aid.
Hmm! Fair valid argument.
We headed outside the main entrance as my eyes were glued to the lady on desk and the Golden A V above her which was illuminating brighter an its normal glow.
Here this building is at under electric crisis and the Great A V has to glow brighter.
The same change in atmosphere and the chilling goose bumps rising wind engulfed me which eventually made me tore my eyes.
And with the mammoth effort to stop my teeth from clattering and glaring at my raised hair of arm, we reached the Parking area.
The night was now ruling the nature; dark curtains now hid the beauty of nature behind their murk but nature has its way to rule the eyes of beholder.
All I could see from the same openings was the breathing night in its glory.
"Niera, I'll be back." Jerry's announcement dragged me out.
Blinking, I shifted my admire gaze to him turning it into a questioning one.
There I realized we are standing beside Jerry's car and we have a uniformed company.
I knitted my eyes further to follow the similarity of the faces and then my mind rang in bells.
They are the 'Men in Black' from the last night.
Realization took my speaking skills for a minute before I went in wandering.
What are they doing?
A gave a brisk glance at them and at Jerry.
The look of consternation on their stone face and the boiling anger on my gentle friend's, I matched the dots and my answers met me in their faces.
"You stay here." He said; strictness radiating from his tone.
Before he could rush out with the Man in Black force behind him, I stopped them, "Jerry!"
He stopped looking at me, my panic struck face made him halt his ascending steps.
I could only shake my head at him; he gave me a flint gaze before my actions made sense to him and his gaze softened. He nodded before patting my shoulder lightly.
"Here for you." He said fishing something from the back seat and presenting a box in front of me. I frowned at him, before my gaze dropped at the offered box, inspecting it with tilted head.
What it could be?
Stop inspecting it like you're an army officer and this is some potential threat material.
"It's dessert for you. Grammy gave me this for you." He explained and my frown lines on forehead were replaced with a gleeful smile on lips.
"Grammy rocks" I exclaimed before snatching the box from Jerry with sheer enthusiasm.
Jerry only chuckled at my zeal filled action shaking his head.
"Shall I?" he asked; my gaze which until now was fixed on the box now shifted to him and my mind processed the happening.
"Jerr—"
"Majesty gave you his words; he won't take any action against them. You can trust him Niera." Jerry exhaled explaining.
His face was plain but I knew he wanted me to believe his words.
I trust him!
"But a warning is needed Niera. Just give me a moment, then we can head back. Okay." He enunciated with his gentle smile making me believe his words.
"Okay." I whispered; slightly relieved.
"Shall I now?"
"Yes please." I nodded and he head out in some different direction.
The door of his car, he left open. For once I thought to sit inside but then this chilling environment seems more comforting.
Strange, this basement parking has no voltage issue.
My gaze took a leaping stance as I wandered around standing at the same place.
Wandering doesn't suit you, Lost Fawn! Something inside commented me.
My wandering gaze found something familiar from a distance and my heart leaped.
Apparently someone.
'Mr. Valentine.' I whispered as his broad blur figure made a distinct appearance from a distance.
So that's why you not were ready to put your stupid form inside the car. My subconscious was now wide awake but the comment made me want to kill it.
Without my consent, my mouth opened and words came out before the guards of sanity could stop them.
"Mr. Valentine?" I called aloud.
My words might be reverberated from afar but I distinctly saw his demeanor change like he heard.
He turned to look at my direction; his gaze didn't roam to find the source but they matched my position at that instance.
Like he knew where to find me!
I went to him with hurried pace; taking sharp strides which my heels could allow me.
He stood there close to his luxurious car, the logo was famous but my mind had multitasking already in hand:
1) Keeping my foot in right place at right pace.
2) Keep Mr. Valentine in my watch range before he could flee away.
Sweet baby, why you want to meet and look at him? You are afraid being alone in this parking floor of this haunting building.
Wish murdering my own conscious was easy.
"Mr. Valentine." I rushed squeal, grasping my breaths.
May be I should start doing some work out!
He stood unfazed but raised his prefect left brow at my haywire form.
Focus, dufus!
"Miss William." He acknowledged my presence in front of him while I chose to compose myself.
"You are still here? Revi—"
"Yes we were just about to leave; Jerry had a piece of work pending so he went inside." I gave a brief explanation.
No details policy!
"Leaving you here all alone." He stated through gritted jaws, his anger was rolling off him and his tone made me shiver.
"No—No. he offered if I wanted to accompany him but I politely denied, you see the building is quite enormous and another trip to floor twenty two wasn't exactly something I would refuse after a debata—hectic day." I answered as politely the definition of polite state.
Damn! Why are you angry at him?
He was about to open his Majestic mouth for response but my brain cells went to functioning.
"How is your wound?" I asked averting my eyes to his wounded arm.
The bandages were there with anti inflammatory ointment coating his wounds.
I still can't believe a coffee machine can do such disastrous injury.
"It's fine, healing." He answered in his husky tone making me sigh.
I smiled at his words; raising my eyes to meet his Caribbean blue ones.
"Just let the would heal naturally without putting pressure on yourself." I murmured looking at his intense deep eyes.
He merely nodded at my words.
"Have you had lunch?" the next question popped inside my mind and with a thunderbolt speed, I asked.
He was staring at me for a while like inspecting me before his head made a stiff not so showing shake; I took it as he haven't.
Genius!
"Why?" I asked incredulously.
He again took his leisure time to answer.
"Meeting." He gave a monosyllable answer making me frown and angry at the same time.
Anger boiled in me hearing him being careless for his health.
Sighing, I threw the anger before looking back at him. His crossed his arms over his chest leaning at his shining black car.
"Here take this." I offered him the box of dessert Jerry gave me which was until now resting in my firm grip.
"What is it?" he asked frowning drifting his gaze between me and the box.
"Dessert." I provided and he raised his perfect arched brow.
"I—"
Of course how can he agree to something coming from someone else's mouth?
A little push is needed.
"Have it, you haven't ate anything and you need to take medicines. So please don't crib—I mean just have it." I bit my lips which were on the verge of slipping the exact no filter opinion of mine.
Thrusting the box in his not so active palm, I stood my grounds.
"Dessert?" he looked at the box like Mr. Captain America was looking at New York after his Seventy year sleep.
Your comparison deserves to be nominated for Oscars!
"Yes." I nodded with a small smile.
Because dessert makes happy.
"I'll have something at home it's yours' and—"
"Mr. Valentine, it's fine and that's not for me, I got that for you." I rushed before he could deny the meal but suddenly my brain heated at my words and effect came on my cheeks.
For him?
Liar!
"Mr. Valentine please can we not disagree and agree over something." Sanity saved me yet again; wits spoke.
"You can have it while you're waiting." I suggested as I was assured he is taking the dessert option.
"Why would I be waiting?"
"You're alone; standing beside your vehicle without security; I perceive you were waiting for something apparently someone." I provided with a shrug but my eyes inspecting him intently.
"Yes." He answered looking with those intense eyes, the deepness in them drawing me inside.
"But seems like my wait is finally over." He continued in his husky tone; continuing this intense stare at me.
"Huh?"
"Thank you Miss. William." He said waving the box a little.
I nodded as he tried to open the plastic box.
"Let me." I helped him open it as the wounds in his hand were making the process tough.
We both looked at the dessert which contained an Indian delicacy. I smiled wholeheartedly thanking Grammy while Mr. Valentine looked puzzled.
He gave a look at the box content before his eyes met mine asking a query.
I purposely ignored him while gesturing him to initiate.
He hesitantly took one bite and his frowning unsure face relaxed.
That's dessert do to you. Relax!
I watched him as he devoured the meal looking charming and happy.
I averted my eyes from his serene ones glancing around the empty vast area.
Well let's take the lights are in service of Mr. Majesty. They were dancing hysterically there and here they are perfectly serving the King.
Strange place, strange events!
Moron you! Be a little sane.
But my wandering gaze was distracted when the box which was disposed in his hand moments ago came in front of my very eyes.
Startled and amazed, I shifted my gaze at him frowning.
"I think two can share." He commented a suggestion with a shrug.
"Um! No they can't. It's for you and you haven't had Lunch so you—" I distinctly denied but my further word melted in my mouth when I witnessed him closing the lid of the same heaven holding box.
"What are you doing?" I squealed.
He gave me a blank icy not so important look as he continued to do his job.
I think I got the message.
"Okay. I think it looks tempting. I would like to take a bite." I rushed defeated; talking with a smile.
Duffer! Control you floating lips.
He gave me a pointed look before placing the box in my hand.
With a sigh, I took the box and took a bite, with the same spoon as only one was available.
I couldn't help but moan at the taste; it was beyond delicious.
It is ethereal.
My moan and taste ride was interrupted with a soft growl, my eyes snapped at Mr. Valentine whose eyes were transfixed on me intently while his fists were curved at a ball.
Well what I did now?
And how he can growl like a wild creature?
One more this why his eyes are hard yet pupils dilated?
Questions surrounded me but I blow them out.
I gulped the rest of treat without enjoying the taste and offered him back the box with spoon.
Then something stuck me, "I'm sorry, I ate from your spoon. Wait a minute, I'll get you—"
"It's fine Miss William." He took the spoon and box from me before eating with the same one.
An uninvited unnecessary blush crawled upon my cheeks as I witnessed him delighted with the food.
He looked calm; the cold and hard demeanor he holds always was now replaced with his soft peaceful features.
Eating him or watching him eat with your spoon?
Or watching him enjoying his dessert with the same spoon?
That's absurd.
Right!
I lowered my gaze, looking at my heels; I glared at my invisible conscience while biting my inner lip.
Stupid comments are to be delivered at stupid wrong times.
"Niera!"
We both turned when my name resonated around. I turned over my shoulder to find the shadow kind figure of terrified Jerry lurking around the area.
He opened his mouth, to scream again but his words died in his mouth when he finally found me.
"Nie—"
He rushes toward me frantically but his steps staggered as his eyes finally caught Mr. Valentine beside me.
"Nie—Majesty!" he squeal stumbling, fixing himself over his two strong feet.
I gape, gawk and frowned at his stunt for two seconds while he bowed in the presence of His Majesty.
Seriously, you're not even able to stand on your two feet properly and you're bowing.
"Revin." Mr. Valentine acknowledged his presence with a curt nod.
I shifted my eyes back at Jerry and found my dear friend has activated his oscillation mode and now his head was following the Archimedes principle like an obedient Pendulum.
Don't tell me he is going to start his coughing session.
My eyes berserk-ly went on search mode but with no luck, there wasn't any source of water nearby.
Okay, there wasn't any source of water in this whole gargantuan parking hall.
"You done?" I asked him as he continued to do his neck exercise.
"Yeah." He answered but his answer felt unconscious.
"Okay then let's leave. Take care Mr. Valentine." I said smiling; taking steps toward Jerry's car.
"Wha—No!" Jerry's frantic scream forced me turn in a thunder bolt speed.
"What happened?" I asked as I reached him, almost leaping at him.
My eyes searched his face while my forehead grew frown lines.
He stiffened at my touch on his hand but shook his head vigorously in denial.
"I—I have to—right—I—you—can you wait here. I got to go, an urgent work arise—Um! I'll be back." He rushed with stutters it was like an SUV was running over muddy road and low on petrol.
Nice comparison!
I just scratched my scalp drawing out the sense from them.
"Yeah! Okay." I stretched unsure.
He rushed bowing to Mr. Valentine.
"You too should go, it's getting late." I suggested him looking at the outlines of night from the view outside.
"It's fine. I'll accompany you until Revin comes." He answered looking at my face, apparently at my flushed cheeks, nose. Whatever!
"No, you don't have to. He'll be back soon and you must go home and have dinner. It's not good to make people and food wait." I stated smiling.
My motive was to make him smile but like a repulse action my words wiped away the faint calmness from his face.
It was then turned into a hollow void stone.
Did I said something wrong?
He stood still and numb in front of me but his eyes reach the wild hollowness of lost stance.
"Mr. Valentine?" I called him gaining his attention. He looked at me before his gaze adjusted at me.
"Yes." He answered in husky voice but it was deep whisper.
"Did I said something wrong?" I asked out loud; an unknown fear gripped me.
"I live alone I am alone." He said almost inaudibly.
His voice sounded distant, like he crossed continents saying those words.
The pain and grief in his blue eyes was prominent as he averted his gaze to the pillar beside.
My heart twisted at his words, needles pierced through my chest listening to his words. I felt void from inside as silence prevailed around us.
Between us.
"Why you say so?" Suddenly an inquiring voice resonated and my sanity face palmed; I recognized it as mine.
I took a deep breath before leaning against his Car.
"You're not alone. You have us." I said nonchalantly before my words registered in my slow small brain.
There was a spark in his eyes hearing that; astonishment one could call it.
"I mean you have people around you. They all care. You're not alone Mr. Valentine. You can never be." I whispered softly. It wasn't sanity but it was my heart that was voicing it out and frankly my mind was agreeing to Heart.
"I wasn't taking about it. They are not my family." He stated looking distance.
Like he was standing here physically but his presence was somewhere else.
Somewhere lost!
I know!
I lowered my gaze as he looked at my way.
"How are you alone Mr. Valentine?" I asked looking at the ground over our shadows; the white LED's over the ceiling were creating our shadows, they were near almost touching each other while I felt the difference between us.
For a moment, I adored the closeness of our shadows while comprehending why I found it amazing to look at our closeness.
"Aren't we all?" he countered back; his gaze which was warm until now was shooting icy arrows at me.
My breath stuck in my throat feeling the raw rush of energy erupting from him.
Why would he say so?
"The one who stands with others can never be alone Mr. Valentine." My whisper was softer than a feather.
"And the person who is standing in front of me has being the strength and stand of his people all his life, then how can he is alone?" I continued in the same voice. I wasn't sure of my words but I knew the meaning reached him.
My gaze met his and found a different emotion swirling in his orbs.
And quite distantly, it touched me.
"You are not alone." I said with infinity; convicting him with my sincere words and tone.
Pure bewilderment and stun-ness ruled his face hearing my words.
Damn it! Did I said something wrong again?
Baby, this time I'll kill you without any remorse, you again made him sad.
My subconscious was shooting me with glaring daggers but my gaze and heart were transfixed on him seeking his reaction while he apparently was recovering from my words.
"Can I advice you something?" I asked with hesitation brimming through my eye lids.
He kept his warm gaze at me for a moment before he found something interesting in the pillar beside. Keeping his gaze there for a moment he turned back and nodded his head.
Should I encourage this topic further?
Am I ready to witness the deep pain to evolve in his eyes again?
My answers were with me in form of my heart beats which were quite unhappy and sorrowful with my announcement.
No! Perhaps it's not right.
Perhaps you aren't the right person to bring this conversation with him. My sanity amended.
But biting my lip, I shook my head.
"Never mind." I muttered looking at him.
Sometimes you have to read the eyes rather than hear the heart.
"And apart from that, A V is always there with you." I said and his head whipped at my way.
A V...!
***
August 30, 2017
A chapter where she gave him the sense of belonging.
So shall we start:-
Our opinion on this Cryptic Friend? How does he know so much and what are his motives?
How do you like her interaction with Mr. Gorgeous Saviour?
The same A V didn't left them alone in their Quality Time.
And one important: To whom she is going to involve in this Mailing Mess? Who will help her? Who is this 'Only one'?
I'll leave you to brain storm until we meet with next part.
*Once again guys, apologies to keep you waiting.*
I hope you enjoyed it. Would love hear from you.
Don't forget to Vote, Comment and Share. It'll be highly appreciated.
Thank you,
Neelam