After a while, she continued, "I liked Jake. I think I loved him, and such feelings don't disappear overnight, you know. He told me he loves you, and I am happy for you guys. But I hope you would be able to move past my last behavior and start afresh."
I listened to her words quietly, trying to read her expressions. She sounded sincere to me, even though I know she was way too arrogant to accept her feelings openly, but at the moment, her words were honest and genuine.
"Erica, I get it, and I am sorry to put you in this situation. Jake is really special, and destiny just got us together. I love him too, a lot. And I appreciate your gesture today. I really do."
"Thanks, Emma, I don't expect us to become best buds, but I see a fresh cordial start for sure. I am happy with that." She forced a funny look, making me grin along with her.
We both chatted a bit after that, and soon Jake joined us as well. We gradually took our leave and headed back home.
***
"I love you, Emma." He whispered.
It was almost late in the evening when we both settled back at Jake's home. We were sitting near his poolside area. It was an outdoor facility, beautifully designed and furnished. Jake got us both wine and played some light music in the background.
I was admiring the twinkling stars in the sky. Soon I felt his arms hug me from behind. His chin was resting on my shoulder, and he was kissing my ear.
"I love you too, Jake. I so want to get used to this." I leaned back on him and closed my eyes in contentment.
"Me too. Today went surprisingly well. I think Erica put in a lot of effort, way more than what I expected."
"I agree. We had a little chat when you went to study. She told me how she felt about you."
"She did? I hope she didn't make you uncomfortable."
"No, not as much as I thought. I appreciate her honesty, though."
"You did great today, Emma. You are one sorted woman. You amaze me every day." He said while turning me around to face him. He brushed the back of his hand on my left cheek. "You are so special, Emma. Why didn't I find you sooner?" Admiration danced in his blue orbs, making me shy. He cupped my face and made me look at him. "I love how my words affect you." He gave me a soft, lingering kiss on my lips. I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him closer. Our breathing became uneven as we devoured each other. After a while, we finally parted from our kiss.
"So how many more ex-lovers of yours are going to pop up? Wanting to befriend me, perhaps only to plan and murder me later?"
"Well, firstly, nobody could ever think of touching my girl. However, for my ex-flames, the list is long. Next time, remind me to give you a detailed memo." He winked and laughed. Two could play the game.
"Is that so? Listen carefully, Mr. Richmond." I held both his collars and pulled him towards me. "All jokes apart. I am done handling your exes. I don't like sharing your attention. Today was one of the first and the last. There won't be a next time, ever." My sharp eyes were throwing daggers at him. I was done being the generous girlfriend. He was mine. Period.
"Fuck. You are so sexy when you are jealous, Emm." He claimed my lips again. This time in urgency. His possessive hold on me made me hot, longing for more. I was burning in desire. Our tongues danced in rhythm, and we were both fighting the battle of dominance.
He picked me up in his arms the next second. He didn't even bother to hide what he had on his mind. He was shamelessly stripping me with his eyes. Soon, we were in his room. The love of my life made me submit, claimed me as his, and washed away even the last speck of doubt that my fragile heart could withhold.
Chapter 33
Sunday bliss
Emma
Next day was a Sunday, and after having breakfast with Jake, he told he had two conference calls scheduled until noon.
"Do you ever stop working? Sometimes it's hard to say that you are the boss, and I am the employee."
Jake chuckled, "well it's a myth when people say the boss doesn't work or work any less. My father worked hard to build this company, and I will never want to disappoint him." He took me in his embrace and gave me a warm smile.
"I understand Jake. I am sure he would be very proud of you." I inched closer and gave him a soft peck on his lips.
"Let's go for dinner later today. It's a date." He kissed my forehead and quickly left the room as his phone was ringing madly by now.
I went back to lie down on the bed. I decided to call my dad and let him know about Jake. My heart was racing in anticipation. I was so nervous about confronting my parents.
Come on, Emma. They still think that you stay at your apartment. Call them now.
I dialled my dad's number, but it went unanswered. Next, I dialled my mom instead, she picked up after a few rings.
"Hi, Mom! How are you?"
"Hi, sweetheart. I am good. How are you?"
"I am good too, mom. Just been a bit busy."
"Yes, it’s been a while. When are you coming to visit us?"
"I will plan soon, mom. I promise. Where is dad? I called him earlier."
"He is on gardening duty today, our lawn has been a mess since days, so I gave him strict orders that
