Forbidden Moments Are The Sweetest

Audrie woke up after tossing for a while in her sleep. She was dreaming but couldn't recall the dream. She just remembered feeling heavy with so much guilt but without knowing what her sins were. And she was sweating so much as though she carried an unseen burden on her shoulders. It could be her conscience. Or it could just be the worst hang-over on earth. Her head was filled with hundreds of little men banging a hammer against her skull. She couldn't see straight. Everything around her was woozy and blurred, just like in the movies when somebody's dreaming. Maybe, she was still dreaming...

When Audrie chose to believe that she was still dreaming, the splitting headache disappeared suddenly. It was replaced by a peculiar hotness. Her whole body was burning from unseen fires, which she desperately wanted to get rid off. She forced her heavy limbs to move. Her legs staggered drunkenly as she moved towards a door that she only guessed as the bathroom. This bedroom looked strange yet familiar. She knew she had been here before but couldn't remember when.

Her eyesight was still foggy and she hazily noticed the spaciousness of the elegant bathroom. But her main concern was the blazing fire inside her body and the throbbing heat inside her head. Without removing her clothes, Audrie got inside the glass cubicle and turned on the shower knob. The water was icy cold against her skin. She let out a a very loud gasp but remained unmoving under the steady jet of needle-like spray. Her short hair got plastered around her head. Her make-up got washed away from her face. Her clammy hands tried to peel off her wet clothes but her trembling fingers lack the strength to lift the heavy fabric. She giggled softly at her foolishness. She just destroyed her new dress but she couldn't care a bit because she was only dreaming.

"I wish I'm dreaming about Sean, too," Audrie whispered to herself. She tried to sound nonchalant but she could almost taste the underlying desperation and fear bubbling inside her guts. She was afraid because her feelings towards her sister's fiance were fast becoming uncontrollable. Loving Sean was like riding a giant rollercoaster with lots of twists and turns. And the only way she could set herself free was to remove the safety harness...

Audrie sighed loudly and shook her head to get rid of the murky thoughts. She felt dizzy instantly due to the sudden movement. She shook her head again with more force. When she experienced nausea again, she was forced to accept that she was not really dreaming. The floor kept rolling under her feet because she was still very much drunk. A languid hand slapped on her forehead as she scolded herself drowsily. "You're such a naive fool, Audrie Jacobs!" Her voice had gone hoarse now and her body was starting to tremble. The water from the shower had gone icy cold against her skin. She forced her freezing fingers to unzip and undon the clingy wet dress. She was shuddering very badly when she managed to remove the dripping clothes. Her legs were shaking and she just got able to stand on them through sheer determination. Even though her earlier thoughts were almost suicidal, Audrie's sense of modesty could never let herself die in the nude.

She giggled helplessly. There's nothing funny in her present predicament but she preferred to laugh rather than cry. Hysteria was like a moth circling the flame. Her self control was ready to snap anytime but she still had enough sense to keep herself calm. The cold shower helped.

 

How to Catch a Woman's Heart

The Fritz was well-known for its delicious food and good music for dancing. After a sumptuous dinner, the guests were encouraged to proceed to the dancing room, where a long bar counter with stools lined the length of one wall. A wide space with a giant strobe light on the center was surrounded by small round tables and slim chairs, designed for couples who wanted to get close to each other. The whole room was dimly-lit. Audrie could hardly see Nick's smiling face and yet she's still feeling relaxed. She smiled back at him even though he could not see her properly. She was glad because the dinner was a success. And now, she's hoping that they'd pass through the next level. If she could dance to sweet music with Nick , her crazy infatuation with Sean Talbot would be history before the night was over.

"Thank you for bringing me here, Nick," Audrie said impulsively.

"Are you happy tonight, Audrie?" Nick asked eagerly.

"Yes."

"I'm glad to hear that, sweetie." Nick caught her hand and pulled her up. "Let's dance, darling."

Audrie did not resist when his arms encircled her slim body. She managed to keep still when Nick started kissing her hair. She tried hard not to squirm when his mouth began nuzzling her neck. Her skin crawled due to the trail of wetness left by the unwanted caresses. "Nick, please stop," she said calmly. "This is a public place," she added without thinking. She just wanted Nick to take it slow without discouraging him.

"Then, let's go somewhere private," Nick suggested quickly. "Come with me. I have a big bed in my apartment."

"No." Audrie baulked when he started pulling her again. "I don't want to go to your apartment."

"Why?" Nick scowled.

"Nick, please understand. Don't rush me." Audrie used a pleading tone to pacify him.

"Rushing you? I've been patiently waiting for you to come around and notice me. I've waited for nine months and 28 days, y'know."

"I didn't know you're counting. I'm sorry."

Nick sighed aloud. He had calmed a bit but still very much irritated. "Ok, let's have it your way. But please don't make me wait forever." His warning sounded petulant.

Audrie could not answer due to disappointment. And she was fast changing her mind on anything related to Nick. She thought she knew Nick; but the man in front of her had transformed to someone shallow and unpredictable.

"Let's dance again."

"No. I want to go home now."

Nick hesitated for a moment before nodding his head curtly. "If that's what you want," he said as he started dragging her again.

"Please let me go. I can walk by myself." Audrie was feeling cold from the inside. The warmth from Nick's admiration earlier was gone and she felt alone once again.

Nick sensed her change of mood and apologized instantly. "I'm sorry for being such a grump, Audrie. The only explanation I have is frustration. I've been longing for this moment to have you for myself. I admit that I'm wrong to rush you."

Audrie sighed. "It's alright. I understand." She accepted his apology reluctantly.

"Let's have a drink to help us cool off."

Audrie hesitated.

"If we're really friends again, you'd go with me to the bar." Nick was standing close to her, watching her face intently. "C'mon, just one for the road," he added in a cajoling tone.

"Oh, alright." Audrie was forced to accept. This could be their last time together. Nick was a nice guy... But she couldn't just stand his touch--period. She must stop this foolishness before it escalated to something uncontrollable. Emotions were like explosives. They're too dangerous to play with... could explode in your face anytime... and many people could get hurt...

Audrie was still deep in her chaotic thoughts when they reached the bar. Nick managed to find two vacant stools. "Two brandy, please." He ordered without asking her.

"Just water for me," Audrie cut in hastily.

"And one glass of cold water," Nick added, after glancing at her with something like irritation.

Audrie was starting to feel nauseous once again. Someone was smoking beside her and she could not avoid inhaling the cigarette smoke. Suddenly, she felt like she's going to puke. Covering her mouth with one hand, she mumbled a hasty "excuse me!" before rushing off towards the direction of the restrooms. She went there after dinner. She had lost count of the glasses of champagne and red wine she consumed during dinner. Her cheeks felt thick so she splashed cold water to her face. She knew she was already drunk so she ordered a cup of black coffee.

"I'll wait for you here." Nick was reluctant to leave because the bartender had placed the two glasses in front of him.

Audrie just nodded her head once. The sharp movement was a mistake because it caused her world to roll and her stomach to grumble. She almost stumbled as she maneuvered the crowd in the dance floor. "Sorry! Excuse me!" She kept on mumbling these words because she kept on bumping against someone. She was thankful when she went through the door without falling on her wobbly knees. The air outside the dancing room was fresher so she could breathe better. Her nausea lessened but she continued walking towards the restroom area, until a tall and hard shape blocked her away.

"You're drunk," Sean stated flatly. His dark eyes was criticizing.

"Sean!" Audrie gasped when she recognized the deep voice. "What--what are you doing here?"

"Fetching you."

"But--but how--?" She was not allowed to complete her query. Long, talon-like fingers clamped around her arm and dragged her towards the main entrance of the restaurant.

"Wait--there's my car." Audrie managed to direct a shaking finger towards the service car parked on the opposite side of the long parking space.

"Yours?" Sean sounded disbelieving.

"No. It's a company car--" Audrie tried to explained but stumbled because Sean dragged her again.

"It will be safe," he cut in brusquely after he opened the passenger door. "Get inside." Sean didn't wait for her to obey. He pushed her into the car and deftly locked the seatbelt himself. In a flash, he was sitting in the driver's seat and turning the ignition key.

"I--I left Nick inside!" She gasped once again.

"He's old enough to fend for himself." Sean told her in a cold tone.

"But--"

"Is he your boyfriend?" The question was sharp.

"No, but--"

"No more buts. You're going home now. You have no right to be irresponsible. Drinking while driving, huh?"

Audrie was effectively silenced by guilt and renewed nausea. Feeling weak, she laid down her head against the softly upholstered head rest. She stared at the dark night outside the window.

"Sulking?"

"What?" Audrie was forced to turn her head towards Sean. He was busy driving the black luxury car.

"Sulking because your fun is cut short?"

"No..."

"Then talk to me."

"What is there to talk about?" Audrie was hesitant. "We have nothing in common."

"Why do you drive a company car now?"

Audrie sighed before she replied timidly. "I've been promoted."

"Congratulations." Sean threw her a mocking smile but his tone was sincerely warm. "Why did you cut your hair?"

"For the new job."

"Or for the new boyfriend?"

Audrie refused to rise to his bait because her head was starting to swim in pain. She closed her eyes to let them rest for a while.

Sean did not speak again so Audrie was lulled to sleep. She was confident that he would wake her up when they reached home.

*     *     *

When Sean noticed that she was deeply asleep, he pulled out his cellphone to call the police station. "Hello, Ken? This is Sean. I'd like to ask another favor." Ken was a close buddy since high school. They remained friends until now.

"Ha-ha, I can already guess the reason for this out-of-the-blue request from the mayor," Ken commented mockingly. "It's the motorbike girl again, no?"

"Not a motorbike anymore. You'd need a tow truck this time." He gave the plate number, which he had memorized while passing by the parked black SUV. "Please bring it to the townhouse."

"Right away, sir." Ken was laughing now. "And you owe me double rounds now."

"Yeah, more than a double, I think." Sean forced himself to laugh lightly.

Sean decided to bring Audrie to the townhouse once again because no one would assist the drunk girl if he brought her to her own home. And he couldn't possibly bring her to his house at this time of night. His mother's sharp radar would be alerted at once. And he didn't need further complications while he's trying to get rid of his crazy attraction to Audrie Jacobs.

'Yes, I'm a crazy man, indeed!' Sean told himself after he switched off the engine. He was hesitant now that they were parked in front of the townhouse.

Someone knocked softly on the driver's window. It was Police Officer Ken.

Sean pushed the power button to open the window.

"Mission accomplished, Sean. The lady's car is parked right behind yours now."

"Thanks again, Ken." Sean heaved a deep sigh before he spoke again. "Could you open the gate and front door, please? She's asleep and I have to carry her inside."

"Ok." Ken took the keys from Sean. He had been a visitor here several times before so he was familiar on the whereabouts of the light switches. "Don't you think it's wiser to put her in the living room instead of the bedroom?" He commented seriously. "Sorta away from temptation?"

"She's a temptress anywhere you put her," Sean said in a clipped tone.

"Yes, you're right... but is she really the motorbike girl?" Ken did not recognize Audrie.

"The same girl. Just no more long hair and rugged clothes." Sean placed Audrie's sleeping form on the bed carefully.

Ken followed closely behind and quickly covered the girl's shapely long legs with the thick bed cover. "C'mon, let's leave her here in peace," he said after arranging the pillow beneath Audrie's head.

Sean was reluctant to leave Audrie but he had to heed Ken's insistent stare.

"Brandy?" He asked when they reached the living room, where a small wine bar was located in one corner.

"Just one shot, thanks." Ken sat on the bar stool.

Sean fought with himself quietly while nursing his glass.

"A woman's heart is sometimes elusive," Ken said after a few minutes of thick silence. "It's hard to catch, especially when it belongs to another man."

"I'm not interested in catching any woman's heart, Ken. I already have Anne's," Sean muttered with a false calm.

Ken just shrugged. "That's good to hear." He gulped down the brandy. "I have to go now, Sean. I'm on duty until 8 tomorrow morning."

"Thanks again for your help." Sean accompanied his friend outside. They waved at each before Ken drove the tow truck away. He switched off all the lights, except the pinlights in the small lawn.

'Does Audrie's heart belong to that man in the restaurant?' Sean asked himself while pouring another shot of brandy for himself.

 

 

Get Going Even When Life--and Love--is Tough

Nick was standing in front of the Fritz Restaurant, looking anxious and a bit impatient, when Audrie parked the SUV beside a black luxury car. Thankfully, she heard the foreman complaining about the scarcity of parking spaces during Fridays earlier at the branch office; so she called the restaurant to reserve a space in the parking lot at lunchtime.

Audrie packed the black dress and some accessories before she went to bed last night. She had no plan to go home and dress for her date with Nick so she brought her outfit when she left the house that morning. At four o' clock, she checked in a hotel to get some rest before she showered and dressed. Her short hair was easy to dry so she shampooed and conditioned it. She practiced her newly-acquired skill on cosmetics application. After several minutes of concentration, her eyes looked dramatic and mysterious with blue-and-silver shades on the eyelids. She painted her lips with light pink and a coat of sheener. She knew she looked good and she felt strangely confident with herself. It was a first time and euphoria made her feel a bit light-headed.

"Hello, Nick. Sorry I'm late." Audrie tapped Nick on one shoulder. Her smile was starting to waver due to nervousness. Her hand clutching the small silver-black evening purse was trembling and feeling cold. What if she looked like a clown with a painted face instead of the lovely apparition that she saw on the bathroom mirror?

"Sorry, ma'am, who--?" Nick looked stunned when he recognized her. "Audrie?! Omg, you look--! Oh, is that really you? You're--you're looking so lovely tonight!" His admiring eyes roamed over her--from her short hair to her low-heeled black shoes.

Audrie was wearing the black dress with the longer skirt and higher neckline. Her bare arms and back were covered with a silver-black shawl draped across her shoulders. She chose it for tonight because it had a straight-cut design and a loose fit, unlike her other dress. Her naivete with clothes prevented her from realizing that the shapeless dress was just as sexy and tantalizing as any clingy dress.The silky material revealed her hidden shapes with every move she made. Audrie worn the only pair of diamond earrings she owned. It was a gift from Anne and Aimee when she graduated in college. Her parents deposited a small fortune to her savings bank. She had used part of that money to buy her motorbike.

"Thank you for the nice compliment, Nick." Audrie's self-confidence was slowly coming back. "You look nice and handsome yourself." She blushed a bit when she heard her somewhat dull statement. Anne once told her that most guys didn't want to be called 'nice'. Fortunately, Nick didn't seem to notice. He was still bawled over by her changed appearance.

"Come on inside. Our reserved table is waiting." He offered his arm eagerly. Wearing a black suit with a black bow tie, Nick looked like a real gentleman.

Audrie smiled as she walked beside him. She was basking under the warmth of his admiration like a flower just starting to bloom under the sun. While dressing earlier, she had promised herself that she'd explore the possibility of having a relationship with Nick, even though her conscience was against the idea of using another man to help her forget Sean. She knew she could never forget Sean but she had no choice but to continue trying. She should be tough because living her life while still hopelessly in love with Sean would be a lot tougher beyond expectation. Nothing was predictable whenever their near to each other because sparks always fly.

"I still couldn't believe my eyes!" Nick exclaimed once again after they were seated.

It was an effort for Audrie to pull back from her musings about Sean. She didn't know what to say so she just smiled at Nick again.

"Are you real, Audrie? Is that really you?" Nick was almost gushing but Audrie was able to overlook his somewhat exaggerated admiration because she was busy learning how to enjoy the admiration. This was her first time to be the center of attention. The experience was unnerving yet encouraging. It was very easy to get addicted to male adoration... but Audrie had to remain wired to the ground. She shouldn't let herself forget that she's not a real beauty. And that by believing otherwise would just turn her to a vain creature.

With a snap, Audrie switched on her practical and sensible personality. "Enough flattery, Nick." She softened the slight rebuke with a soft smile. "Let's order dinner. I'm hungry."

"Oh, I'm sorry. Of course." Nick waved at the passing waiter, looking flustered and embarrassed. The waiter gave them two menubooks and left with a promise to come back after five minutes.

Audrie remained silent to give time for Nick to recover. She hid behind the large folder and pretended to peruse the different names of food and their pictures. She decided on a small steak and a large bowl of fresh salad with separate dressing.

"What about dessert, ma'am, sir?" the waiter asked seriously.

"Two slices of chocolate cake," Nick replied eagerly.

Audrie shook her head. "No dessert for me. Thanks."

"I ordered for the two of us, Audrie," Nick protested.

"I seldom eat sweets at night," Audrie explained with a smile.

"I'll remember that." Nick smiled back. "No sweets for my honey before bedtime," he added as he covered her hand with his hot sweaty palm.

Audrie wanted to squirm. It was an effort to stop herself from pulling her hand away. She did not want to offend or discourage Nick. She really wanted to try things out with this guy; but nothing intimate--just get to know each other first. She just hoped Nick would take things slow...

After the waiter departed, Nick began making eyes at Audrie and started caressing her palm with the tips of his fingers. "You really shocked me, Audrie. Although I've always thought you had potentials to be pretty, I never expected that you could look as gorgeous as you do tonight."

Audrie was getting uncomfortable because Nick's fingers seemed deliberately tickling her through her sensitive palm. She had read somewhere that it was a sort of foreplay to intimacy. When the waiter came back with the appetizer, Audrie withdrew her hand hastily and surreptitiously rubbed her palm on the side of her dress.

"I'd like to order a bottle of champagne," Nick announced suddenly.

'"Of course, sir." The waiter disappeared and came back within a few seconds with a foil-covered bottle buried in an ice bucket and two fluted wineglasses.

Champagne was seldom served in the Jacobs household but Audrie secretly liked the frizzy taste of the bubbly drink. She accepted her wineglass with a wide smile, completely forgetting that she hadn't eaten anything since lunch.

"Let's toast for our future together, darling Audrie," Nick said while raising his glass. "To us. Cheers!"

"Cheers!" Audrie raised her glass, too. The bubbles tickled her nose as she sipped the sparkling wine. After a few sips, she felt light and cheerful. She giggled suddenly.

"What's the joke, honey?" Nick asked at once. He was smiling warmly.

"Nothing. I'm just happy." Audrie giggled once again, not realizing that she's already a bit drunk.

Nick caught her hand once again. "I'm glad to hear that. I'll make you happier before the night is through, darling," he promised.

Before Audrie could think of an answer, their food arrived.

*     *     *

Sean found himself staring at the woman sitting by the large potted indoor plant. She looked familiar... Of course, she'd look familiar! It's Audrie Jacobs! He couldn't help exclaiming to himself because the plain and quiet Audrie he knew had completely transformed to a sassy and gorgeous woman. With a very short hair and fashionable outfit, Audrie looked even more dangerously bewitching. He could still feel the whole impact of her bombshell effect from a distance of more than ten meters. Audrie was slightly facing his direction. She would not notice him unless he deliberately catch her attention, which he was itching to do now.

"Do you think it's a good idea, Mayor Talbot?"

"What? Please pardon me, Engineer Bellcamp." Sean was having dinner meeting with the city engineer, who brought his wife along. They were here to discuss some of the topics that involved future public infrastructure. The city government was planning to construct a motorists' bridge that would connect Love City to the mainland of Florida. Tudor Bellcamp asked Sean to have a talk before the city council meeting on Monday.

"My wife always serve a glass of martini with roasted chicken; but for tonight, I'd like to eat my chicken with white wine, dry or semi-dry. What do you think?" The older man explained patiently.

Sean smiled apologetically before he replied. Their food had arrived while he was busy staring at Audrie. "I suggest we have both," he said before giving a small nod to a hovering waiter nearby. After giving the order for wines, his eyes strayed towards Audrie's direction once again. Something jolted him from the inside, like a small bomb that exploded quietly but effectively destroying all the things that he had believed in...

'My God...' Sean whispered to himself, stunned and shocked, as he stared at Audrie with a naked hunger of a long-lost lover.

Engineer Bellcamp had to clear his throat several times to get back his attention but Sean could not focus on anything while watching Audrie, who seemed enjoying herself immensely with the company of another man. An intense feeling of possessiveness was quickly burgeoning inside his guts and clouding his mind at the same time.

'Dammit, what's happening to me?!' Sean couldn't believe his reaction. He had never felt this jealous with Anne, even when she was constantly surrounded with other men in her modelling projects.

"Would like to hear some advice from an old man, Mayor?" When the wife left for the comfort room, the older man leaned towards Sean to whisper a question.

"I will listen, sir." Sean was still a bit distracted.

"If she's the woman who owns your heart, you must own her heart, too. A man who yearns from afar will be indespair forever."

"What do you mean, sir?" Sean asked even though he understood perfectly.

"We're going home when the wife's returned but you will stay here. Stop eating your heart, young man. Go and get the woman who makes you happier than a puppy." Tudor Bellcamp finished with a conspiratorial wink.

Sean was not happy with him getting compared to a puppy but he was hit hard by the crude wisdom beneath the words of the garrulous old man.

'Does Audrie own his heart now?' he asked himself.

 

Unravelling the Dark Mystery of Attraction

Audrie could hear the telephone ringing from inside the living the room while she was opening the gates. She decided to leave the car outside so that she could answer the telephone fast. She guessed the callers were her parents. And she was right.

"Hello, Audrie." Ron Jacobs greeted cheerfully.

"Hello, Dad." Audrie was a bit breathless. "I just came home. Sorry to keep you waiting."

"It's alright, child. This is my first try. How are you?"

"I'm fine. How are you and Mom? And also Anne?"

"Oh, we're all fine. Are you getting lonely there?" Her father asked with concern.

"No, of course not. There's no time to get lonely here, Dad. I'm in the office all day."

"That's good. We talked to Aimee earlier. And she said she won't be home until next week." There was a small pause and a short clearing of the throat. Audrie guessed her father was going to tell her something important. She remained silent.

"We're also always out here," her father continued awkwardly. "Anne plans to buy a house, and she wanted us to accompany her on house-hunting."

"Oh, that's great news, Dad!" Audrie was genuinely surprised. "Please give my congratulations to Anne." She also felt a bit ashamed because she had been so quick to assume that Anne was in deep trouble when their parents rushed to New York.

"I will. I'll try to call early again tomorrow night. We didn't call you last night because it was very late when we got home after Anne's show."

"That's ok, Dad. I'm a big girl now."

"Yeah, I know that. I really have to go. Bye for now."

"Bye for now, Dad." Audrie sighed as she put down the receiver. Anne was buying a house in New York. What would Sean say? She shook her head firmly. It's really none of her business!

She went out to park the car just inside the gates. The family van and Anne's mini-car were both parked on the driveway. She could buy a tent or cover; but she'd rather wait for her father to decide on a parking space solution.

She was locking the gates when she heard the telephone ringing once again. With puckered brows, Audrie rushed into the front door for the second time that night. The caller was Leila Talbot, Sean's mother. Her hand shook at once. She felt shy and nervous. Mrs. Talbot was a regular caller to their home but this was Audrie's first time to talk with her.

"Is this Audrie?"

"Yes, ma'am..." Audrie swallowed to clear her throat. "Good evening, ma'am. Dad and Mom are not here right now. Can I take your message for them?"

"Oh, I know that Ron and Marie are not home. I called to invite you to have dinner with us tomorrow night."

"Tomorrow is Friday..."

"Yes. Do you have a prior arrangement?"

"Yes, ma'am... I'm sorry." Audrie bit her underlip. She was not really sorry. For the first time, she was glad Nick asked her for a date.

"That's alright, dear. I just thought to invite you because you missed the dinner party last time."

Audrie blushed when she recalled the reason why she missed the party. "That was entirely my fault, ma'am. Please, accept my apologies."

"There's nothing to apologize for, my dear." There was a short muted silence, as though a hand covered the mouthpiece; then Mrs. Talbot was talking again. "I hope you have some free time on Saturday or Sunday?"

Audrie felt cornered. "Uhm, yes, ma'am..."

"Thank goodness. I really want to have you with us, dear. Can you come over here for lunch tomorrow?"

"Lunch is ok, ma'am," Audrie accepted reluctantly. "Thank you for the invitation, Mrs. Talbot." She felt trapped but she couldn't get out even if the door's open. Her parents would be very angry if she showed rudeness to their good neighbors.

"I promise, you and Aimee will have a good time." Leila's voice seemed smiling. "Good night, dear."

"Good night, ma'am." Audrie put down the phone slowly. It was too late to correct the wrong assumption that Aimee was here. Sighing heavily, she went to the kitchen to fix some dinner for herself.

*     *     *

At the Talbot Residence...

Leila Talbot threw her son a knowing look. "You owe me an explanation, Sean," she stated with a hint of challenge in her lilting voice.

Sean's expression remained impassive as he looked back at his still beautiful mother. "About what?"

"For requesting me to call Anne's sister. What's up?"

"She's Anne's youngest sister. And Ron asked me to watch over her while they're away."

"Hmm, that's fine. I'm glad to hear that." Leila's smile seemed relieved. "Any suggestions for the lunch menu?"

Sean shrugged. "Anything that goes with the famous Jacobs salad will do."

Leila's lovely eyes widened with surprise. "You mean, she knows how to make Marie's heavenly salad."

"Maybe. You should've asked her." Sean turned his back to pour another shot of whisky. "Where's Dad?" He just arrived from town about twenty minutes ago. And he had been standing by the window while sipping alcohol very slowly. He was forced to sit down and pretend to relax when his mother joined him in the library, which became his home office since graduation from college.

"He's still in the clubhouse but he promised to be home at eight thirty." His mother was busily punching numbers on the telephone while speaking. "Dinner will be at nine. Or would you like to eat now?"

Sean shook his head. "Nine will be fine." He turned towards the window again when his mother started talking to the telephone. His eyes automatically strayed at the spot where an unfamiliar car was parked earlier. Who brought Audrie home tonight? He asked himself again. The darned car could be owned by one of Aimee's many guy friends... or Audrie's boyfriend... The youngest Jacobs daughter was still an enigma to Sean even though he knew Audrie since a little girl. Anne and Aimee were always at the center of attention; while Audrie always managed to stay invisible. He had dismissed her as an extremely shy and introvert type of person a long time ago and he had just grown accustomed to ignoring her after a salutory greeting every time they met. He would just throw a slight nod or a bland smile towards her direction. He realized now that he had never learned to feel at ease with Audrie. Maybe, his subconscious had already sensed the dangerous magic that Audrie possessed.

"I'll be in the kitchen, Sean." Leila informed his son before going out of the room.

"Yes, Mom." Sean replied absently. He was still thinking distractedly about a maddening witch named Audrie. 'Audrie, why can't I forget your kisses?' he asked himself irritably. He was losing a lot of sleep on someone who didn't deserve even a bit of his attention.

Sean clicked his tongue when he realized how callous the thought was. His mother would surely be disappointed if she heard any of the sarcastic words he threw at Audrie's expressive face. He had been brought up as a gentleman. He had been taught good manners since childhood. He had very good self-control. He had always been self-assured. But after he met that witch his image of himself was destroyed within mere seconds. Sean closed his eyes to relive the incredible, unforgettable, illicit kiss he shared with Audrie on that fated night. It was a kiss that was unique and very much unlike any kiss that he had tasted in any woman's lips. Not even Anne could kiss as passionately and as intensely as Audrie did.

Audrie's kiss was warm and voluptuous and utterly intoxicating like a double shot of century-old whisky. Damn, how could a mere red-blooded man like him forget something as tempting and decadent as that damned kiss?

Sean shook his head again, then walked back and forth restlessly. He should be thinking about Anne alone. He was going to marry Anne next month. The problem with Audrie should be solved as soon as possible before it turned into an obsession... but how? Every time he saw that witch, all sensible thoughts would fly like ashes in the wind.

'Damn, damn, damn!' Sean cursed himself as he combed frustrated fingers through his short black hair. He just realized that Audrie had become an obsession without him knowing it. He was always sarcastic and boorish to her because he was subconsciously fighting the attraction. Something dark and mysterious had blinded him while the small seed of temptation burgeoned and bloomed secretly. He just hoped it's not yet too late to get his life--and sanity--back on the right and proper track.

Sean poured another shot of whisky and swallowed it in one go. "I wish you all the luck, Talbot," he muttered to himself tersely.

 

 

Love Hurts... But Love Changes Everything!

Audrie slept fitfully. She woke up before sunrise, feeling exhausted and looking haggard. Sean was not good for her health and peace of mind anymore. She dreamed of Sean as a dark figure from the shadows, who kept on telling her to betray her loved ones, especially Anne. She was weak to her love but she wasn't unscrupulous. At least, she hoped she wasn't -- yet.

'You need a break, Audrie,' she told her reflection after taking a cold shower. 'And do some changes on yourself as well,' added a small voice inside her head.

Audrie arrived early in the office so she was able to pack her things before Mr. McIntyre arrived. Today was to be her first day in the new branch office.

"Of course, you can bring your things with us now so the messenger won't have to do an extra transportation," the manager replied to her question about the baggage. "You'll be officially introduced as the new branch manager during the monthy meeting next week though."

"I will be here, sir," Audrie said with a smile.

"Good, good. I'll just get a folder in my office."

"Alright, sir."

Janica arrived then. "Hey! You resigned?" she exclaimed while eyeing the big box on Audrie's old office desk.

"No--"

"Ah, you're getting transferred to the new office -- like the two girls over there."

Audrie had not desire to correct Janica so she just nodded and smiled politely.

"I shall miss you, y'know."

"Really?" Audrie asked with raised brows. She looked skeptical.

"Well, really. You're quiet and peaceful and you don't quarrel with me even when I'm being obnoxious at times."

Audrie's smile was more genuine this time. Janica wasn't really bad at all, just a bit more curious than usual but not really malicious. "I'll miss you all, too," she said seriously.

"I hope you'd call here whenever you have time. We can swap news and gossips," Janica requested with a wink. "I wonder who's gonna be your new boss."

Audrie couldn't tell the truth now because she might sound pompous so she just shrugged her shoulders. She was thankful when Mr. McIntyre appeared. "Goodbye for now, Janica." She picked up the big box and walked towards the wide door.

The day had turned out hectic because the manager had other errands to do for the new branch. He dragged Audrie along rows of cars with different shapes, sizes, and models. "Choose the one you like, Miss Jacobs. The company will pay for it," he said encouragingly.

"Please, do the honor, sir. I'd be embarrassed if I chose an expensive one."

Mr. McIntyre laughed out loud. "Don't worry, Miss Jacobs. The luxury cars are over there."

Audrie gave a relieved smile. "Ok, I think I like this one." She pointed at a silver-colored SUV-type vehicle. It was roomy but not bulky like a van.

"Nice choice. Please, wait here and get acquainted with it while I talk to the manager."

"Yes, sir."

Thirty minutes later, Audrie was driving a brand new vehicle. She needed to adjust at first because she had been driving a motorbike for almost five years.

"How's the new baby going?" Mr. McIntyre asked after they reached the branch office.

"It's fine -- light and smooth. I like it. Thank you, sir."

"Good to hear that." The manager smiled widely. "And you're welcome once again. C'mon, let get inside."

The finishing of walls was almost done. The ceilings were done yesterday. The bathroom and the storage space at the back would be last.

"But they should be ready by Monday," the foreman assured them.

"Monday will be fine," Mr. McIntyre beamed. "Miss Jacobs will just visit here everyday then. She's the branch officer-in-charge, by the way."

"Good day, missy," the foreman greeted Audrie politely. Then he did a double-take and started staring at her. "Forgive me for staring, missy, but you remind me of someone."

"It's alright, sir." Audrie smiled blandly. People often told her that she sometimes resembled her two model sisters. "If you'd excuse me, Mr. McIntyre, I'd like to call my mother." She pulled out her cellphone from her jeans' pocket to support her alibi.

Audrie was reading the auto manufacturer's manual when her boss got out from the office. She immediately went out of the SUV.

"I have to go back to the office. I'm sorry we can't have lunch together as I planned. Something urgent cropped up. You're free for the rest of today though, as well as tomorrow."

"Oh! Again?"

"Just check out the progress here in the morning or in the afternoon tomorrow. And also during the weekend if you had some free time on Saturday and Sunday."

"I'll set aside some time during the weekend, sir," Audrie promised at once. "You gave me so much free time this week!"

"It's because you might not have any when the operation here started -- but I'm just joking, of course." Mr. McIntyre laughed aloud at his own joke as usual. He quickly moved towards his car. "Have a good day, Miss Jacobs." He gave a mock salute before opening the car door.

Audrie waved and smiled. She still couldn't believe the many changes happening in her life these past few days. And was it only coincidental that everything had started after Sean mistaken her for Anne and kissed her? Or maybe, the right time had just arrived for the real Audrie Jacobs to emerge as a woman.

She told herself this morning that she needed a break. And a break was granted. So the least she could do was to do some changes as soon as possible. And why not now?

The new branch office was located in the heart of Love City, where people swarmed on the sidewalks and the pedestrian lanes, especially during lunch breaks and rush hours. Audrie decided to walk because looking for a parking space anywhere else at this time of day would be difficult. She went to a well-known and reasonably priced beauty salon. She knew that this was not the place frequented by her mother and sisters.

A slim woman with shiny black hair greeted Audrie as she pushed open the glass door. A blast of cold air from the airconditioning unit welcomed her, too. "Good morning, ma'am. Have a seat while I get a cup of tea for you."

Audrie smiled and looked at the pinned-up giant posters of women with different hair styles. She instantly liked the one with the very short haircut. Although she wouldn't go as far as having her brown-black locks colored with ash-blonde highlights.

The slim girl came back with a cup of steaming hot tea for her. She sat beside Aurie on the long and comfortable couch. "Your hair is very beautiful, ma'am. Would you like a hair spa or hot oil treatment?"

"Whichever will be fine, but I'd like to have it cut first."

"A trim," the girl guessed smilingly.

"A short haircut, actually. Like the girl in that poster."

The salon girl's eyes widened in disbelief. "Are you sure, ma'am?"

"Quite sure."

"Oh, but your hair is long and beautiful. Lots of girls would give anything to have long and beautiful hair."

"I find it hard to manage. Easy to get dirty but hard to dry after every shampoo."

"You're right. But it seems a pity to just cut it short. You might regret it, ma'am."

"No, of course not." Audrie smiled to reassure the girl.

"Ok, please follow me, ma'am. We'll have it shampooed first."

After a warm shampoo, Audrie was brought back to the main salon area. She was introduced to a male hairstylist with reed-slim body and colorful hairstyle named Bushy. He seemed not shocked on Audrie's choice of haircut. He was gracious yet businesslike during their short interview for her other preferences.

"No hair color, ma'am?" Bushy asked a second time.

"No color." Audrie confirmed with a smile. "Just a hair spa or hot oil."

"Alright, let's start then."

After an hour of sniping and steaming and washing and blow-drying, Audrie had a shiny black and very short hairstyle. She stared at her reflection for several long seconds. It was like looking at a familiar stranger. Did she regret losing her long hair? No. It felt like shedding off a heavy load. She smiled at herself as she flicked back her short locks. She liked the lightness of movement.

"Do you like it, ma'am?" Bushy asked.

"Yes," Audrie smiled back.

"It suits you perfectly because you have a gracious and well-shaped head," Bushy complimented with a satisfied smile.
"Thank you."
"With that hair, you only need minimum make-up. Just a little color on the eyes and the lips will do."

"I don't wear make-up during the day."

"You're lucky because you have gorgeous skin." Bushy hovered around Audrie as though assessing her attributes. "Such a tall girl. You can be a model, y'know."

Audrie smiled blandly and changed the subject quickly. "Could you show me how to blend colors for eye make-up?"

"Oh, yes, of course! Come over here. I'll show you all the techniques." Bushy seemed easily excited with anything connected to colors. "I love your eyelids. They will surely look so dramatic with make-up!"

Audrie listened attentively to Bushy's tips. The procedure seemed easy but definitely required a lot of practice to perfect. "Thank you for teaching me, Bushy," she said warmly. She couldn't stop herself from staring at her new look.

"It's a pleasure, ma'am. You can buy a starter cosmetics kit in our boutique upstairs," Bushy suggested.

"You have a boutique here?" Audrie was pleasantly surprised.

"Yes. Come. I'll take you there."

What started out as a simple haircutting session ended to an extravagant shopping spree. The sales representative was very accommodating and attentive. Her suggestions were well-thought and since Audrie was in the mood to be persuaded, she bought a couple of dresses, several pairs of slacks, a number of blouses, blazers, and a couple of pairs of low-heeled shoes. No more sneakers for her now that she's driving the company car. Audrie could not resist a black coat with faux fur on the collar so she pulled out her plastic card to pay for the last purchase.

Audrie even let herself be persuaded on wearing a pair of gray-colored slacks and pastel pink blouse. The figure-hugging clothes were made of fine materials and the semi-casual design suited her tall figure.

She paid the salon with cash so that she could give a tip to Bushy and the slim girl who welcomed her earlier.

"You're so generous, ma'am. Thank you. Please, let me help you with those bags. Lulla, please call a taxi for ma'am."

"Oh, there's no need. Could I just leave these things here while I fetch my car? It's parked not far from here."

"That would be better, ma'am. We'll look out for you just in case you can't find a parking space here," Bushy promised.

"What a splendid idea! Yes, please do that." Audrie was grateful.

The long and winding highway seemed a strange land when Audrie drove home that night. Travelling in a four-wheeled vehicle is slower. She'd miss her motorbike but it's really time to break away from old habits. She planned to be home earlier tonight because she missed her parents' call last night. However, finding a mechanic shop that would take her motorbike for an overhaul and general cleaning took a bit long. She had to accompany the mechanic to the parking lot where she usually park her motorbike and return back to the mechanic shop to sign some papers. It was already dark when she headed home.

 

 

Beware of the White Flame... It Burns the Mind and the Soul

Audrie's heart flipped-flopped wildly when she saw Sean staring at her. Something hot seemed to leap out from the dark depths of his magnetic eyes. Something similar to lightning that ripped through the skies. Something like a small tongue of white flame that flared and blazed but remained unseen by the naked eye. Audrie felt the white-hot heat enveloping her whole being. She felt the scorching sensation but there were no burn marks on her skin. She was burning and yet she was shaking all over.

"Stop staring at me, please," she pleaded huskily.

"Sorry." Sean dropped his gaze onto his plate. He was not eating anymore. "I don't know what's happening to me. I always find myself thinking about you -- and I don't like it!" He shook his head abruptly and then looked at her again. His eyes were blazing with an unknown emotion. It was not anger but it was very hot. "You're a witch, y'know. You've been casting spells on me ever since that night in the garden," he accused in a menacing tone.

Audrie was stunned. "Of course not! That's not true!" Her body shook even more when Sean stood up suddenly and strode towards her. She couldn't move to avoid him. His hands clamped on both her shoulders to pluck her off the breakfast stool. She gasped when his arms imprisoned her body tightly. Her hands were pressed between them. She tried to push him away but she had no strength. "I--I couldn't breathe!" she protested.

"Break the spells you cast on me," Sean ordered harshly. "I don't want to dream about you anymore. I've lost enough sleep. Take away your black magic, witch!"

Audrie was just able to shake her head. "I'm not a witch," she denied breathlessly. "Please, let me go." She tried to struggle once again but his arms were like bands of iron.

"No... not yet..." His fingers combed her long hair clumsily. Audrie winced when some hair strands were pulled off. His hand cupped the back of her head so that she could not turn away. She was able to struggle with panic-driven strength. His kiss landed on her cheek. She didn't realize how sensitive her skin was until the heat of his lips burned through the thin layer and travelled down to the centermost of her body. She trembled once again.

"No," she moaned. "Please, stop now." The temptation to give in was too strong. Her whole being was ready to surrender everything. But her mind is screaming 'no'.

"Sshh..."

"Mmmph!" Audrie clamped her mouth shut when Sean started kissing her. Her eyes were tightly shut, too. 'Think of Anne, think of Anne,' she whispered to herself repeatedly as his mouth continued on caressing her closed lips. Anne had enough troubles on her plate right now and Audrie didn't want to be one of them.

But the small tongue of the invisible white flame had grown to a full-blown bonfire. And Audrie was standing at the center of it, getting burned and getting scorched. It seemed impossible to resist anymore but she had to be strong. Sean would always be a wild and an unreachable dream. Her own family would aways be her rock and her anchor.

But the flesh was indeed weaker than the conscience. Audrie found herself responding and yielding to Sean's kisses and caresses. Her hands had somehow crept up to his head and her fingers were combing through his jet-black hair. Her lips had opened up without conscious consent. She was somehow kissing him back as passionately as he was kissing her.

Seconds ticked by until minutes passed them by, Sean ended the kiss slowly, reluctantly. He was also breathing fast. "You're like a fever that boils my blood. I can't think straight when I'm holding you like this." His teeth grazed the vulnerable length of her neck and nipped at one earlobe. "Let's get out of here."

"No..." Audrie croaked. Her voice sounded strange.

"Would you like me to make love to you on the kitchen counter?" Sean asked her teasingly.

"No!" Audrie gasped. She was melting once again, if it was still possible. All her bones had turned to liquid while they were kissing. Her hands pushed against his chest with puny strength. He let her go this time. She rubbed her sweaty palms against the sides of her jeans while moving away from him. She couldn't free her guilty eyes from being captive to his magnetic stare though.

Audrie swallowed the big lump inside her throat. "I -- I can't hurt Anne," she whispered. "I can't betray my own sister."

"She won't get hurt if she doesn't know."

Audrie shook her head. She used the side of the breakfast counter as support to slide herself further away. She needed some distance from Sean to clear her mind.

"Besides, I'm not offering you a relationship."

She swallowed once again. Something in his eyes told her that his next words would be painful to hear.

"Just one or two nights will do."

Audrie was speechless for a few seconds. "What -- what do you take me for?" Then his anger after their first accidental kiss flashed back in her memory. He called her a tramp. And he was treating her like a tramp now.

Silence reigned while Sean was studying her pale face. When he spoke again, his voice was somewhat sarcastic. "Looking at you now, you seemed innocent. But then, I saw you embracing and kissing a drunken man in front of a bar last Sunday."

Audrie's eyes widened guiltily. "It -- It was Nick. He's a friend and co-worker." She opened her mouth to deny that she was embracing and kissing Nick but Sean fired another question.

"Is he a boyfriend, too?"

Audrie shook her head. "No."

Sean went silent again while his sharp gaze continued on delving the depths of her eyes. After a few seconds, his head gave a short nod. "Come with me," he invited casually.

Audrie heaved a deep sigh. She shook her head again. "Please, let's stop this madness now."

"Be honest. Can you forget everything that happened between us?"

Her lips opened to utter a lie but her heart suddenly decided to speak. "I'll never forget -- you're my first kiss," she admitted huskily.

"Don't expect me to believe that." Sean gave a short disbelieving laugh. "You kiss like a pro. You touch my body like a true temptress."

Audrie bit her lower lip. Her nails pierced her palms deliberately to prove to herself that those moments were really happening. She wanted to just melt and disappear right there and then.

"In fact, you're a perfect..." Sean left the sentence hanging while he picked his blazer and neck tie. "... mistress material."

Audrie gasped. She was stunned. She should feel insulted but she felt excited, too. "How can you say that? I will be your sister-in-law soon!"

Sean looked at her with something like frustration and irritation. "Do you think I could forget that you'll be my sister-in-law? Do you think I could forget that you're Anne's sister?"

Audrie didn't know what to say. "No..."

"Yes!" Sean cut in. "Yes, I could forget anything. Don't act innocent. You bewitched me."

"I'm sorry..."

"Just take away the spells, witch," Sean muttered curtly before he turned sharply away. "Don't forget to lock the gates and the door." He said as he pulled closed the kitchen door.

For few more seconds, Audrie couldn't  believe that Sean just left her alone. She was like an old woman when she was able to move again. With shaking hands, she put the left-over foods inside the fridge and cleaned up the kitchen. She was embracing herself when she went out to lock the gates. She used the kitchen door again and locked it before going up to her new bedroom. She took a warm shower but she remained cold and empty inside.

Mistress... This was the last word in Audrie's mind before sleep overcame her tired body.

 

 

Never Trust the Twisted Humor of Fate

Audrie reached the Jacobs Residence while the sun was drowning in the horizon. The skies had the color of dark orange and murky yellow. It was early evening but the air blowing against her face was still warm. The fragrance from her mother's small rose garden wafted around her as she pushed the motorbike on the driveway towards the car park located at the left side of the house. There were three vehicles already parked right in front of the pull-down steel door. The garage was used for storage these days. And, soon, her beloved motorbike would join the stored items inside the dim room.

"Sorry, pal," Audrie whispered as she rubbed a clean cloth on the motorbike's bulky gasoline tank. "Maybe, we could stll ride around during weekends."

"Good evening."

Audrie's knees buckled at once when she heard Sean's baritone voice. Her fingers grasped at the handle bar before turning her head towards the unwanted visitor. "What are you doing here?" she asked defiantly.

"Checking on you," Sean replied sardonically. He was standing in the shadows with the street lights behind his back so she could not see his face. "Your Dad called me last night. He asked me to look after you while you're home alone here."

Audrie exhaled a short and loud sigh, not hiding her impatience. "Thank you. You can go now. I'll be locking the gates and the door once I get inside the house." She remained motionless because her legs were starting to turn to jelly.

"I'm also here to fetch you."

"Fetch? Why?"

"We're having dinner at seven tonight. Didn't you receive the flowers?"

"I received them --" Audrie took a deep breath. She wanted to ask why he sent flowers but stopped herself. "I don't want to have dinner. Thank you for the invitation but I'm sorry. I'm tired and all I need is an early rest."

"You need to eat first. At least, something light." Sean moved like the wind. In an instant, his long fingers had clamped like vice around her elbow. "Come inside the house."

"Let go of me!" Audrie struggled but her bones had melted. Sean dragged her away effortlessly. "I'll walk alone." Her sneakered foot jabbed at his shin when he ignored her.

"Ouch! That hurts," Sean exclaimed but did not stop. "You're always almost invisible that I seldom notice you. I never expected you'd be as stubborn as a mule."

Audrie did not like the comparison to an unglamorous creature and suddenly found so she dug her heels on the ground. "Please let go of my arm." She tried to speak firmly but her voice was shaky. "And leave me alone now."

Sean did not speak but continued on walking and towing her at the same time.

"You're hurting me!" Her long hair was quite dishevelled from her struggle.

"Give me the door key," Sean commanded calmly.

"Let go of my arm first."

Sean shrugged before dropping her arm like a hot potato. "Open the door," he ordered in a cool tone.

Audrie just realized they were standing in front of the service door that would bring them directly into the spacious laundry area. This part of the house had a glass roof installed so the mixed colors of the skies due to the setting sun gave an eerie illumination in the surroundings. She stopped when she reached the second door to the kitchen. Reluctantly, she turned towards Sean. "I -- I can manage from here. Please go now."

"Let's go inside." Sean took the keys from her cold fingers and opened the kitchen door. Audrie gasped sharply when she felt a jolt of electricity-like sensation in her fingers that passed to her arm and travelled throughout her body. It was like a white-hot heat had enveloped her. Small beads of perspiration started to ooze from the pores of her skin. Her heartbeat quickened. Breathing fast didn't help because she just inhaled more of the intoxicating smell of Sean's masculine perfume.

"Should I carry you inside?"

Audrie shook her head hastily. Her back was flattened on the smooth exterior wall when she quickly moved away from him. "Please go," she uttered in an inistent tone.

"I'm hungry." Sean pushed open the door and walked inside the kitchen. "I'm expecting to have my dinner at seven so you have to feed me first."

"If you insist." Audrie sighed to gather strength for her weakened legs. "I can't offer you anything elaborate," she warned as she followed him inside.

Sean flicked the light switch. He chose to sit on one of the stools surrounding the breakfast counter. He seemed determined to wait for food. "I'm starving. A steak with salad will do."

"Steak and salad..." Audrie shook her head once again while opening the freezer. "You don't have to wait for your dinner. Just go home," she muttered.

She took out two packages of pre-marinated steak and placed them inside the microwave to defrost. From the fridge, she pulled out the ingredients for a green salad and a packet of fresh strawberries. While waiting for the meat to thaw, Audrie chopped some herbs that would be grilled along with the steaks. After she placed on the meat on the electric grll, Audrie started preparing the salad. Her movements were economical. She always knew what to do next because she had developed a system on food preparation. Grilled steak was her father's favorite dinner so Audrie was able to cook it in just under one hour.

"I will eat here," Sean said while watching Audrie pouring hot gravy on the sizzling piece of steak.

"That was fast," Sean commented as he picked up the knife and fork. "So you really know how to cook."

"It could taste like ash," Audrie murmured calmly. Cooking was always a therapeutic activity for her. The smell of food always has a soothing effect on her. She turned back to the kitchen counter prepared a steak sandwich for herself.

"Your steak tastes delicious, don't worry," Sean said after chewing and swallowing a small slice of grilled meat. "Not salty, too. Perfect." He winked at her. A small smile danced briefly on his lips.

"Thank you." Audrie could not control the blushing of her cheeks so she turned away to fetch the salad bowl from the fridge.

Sean forked some of the crispy lettuce leaves and ate them with a bite of steak. "Mmm, Mother loves the dressing in your salad. Is it a family recipe?"

"Yes..." Audrie was slow to answer because she was beginning to suspect that something was not right. Sean's recent behavior was starting to confuse her.

"Why did you send the flowers?" She blurted out the question without thinking.

"Why not?" Sean asked back. He seemed unperturbed, as though he was expecting her to ask about the flowers sooner or later.

"It's not appropriate," Audrie stated firmly. "Please don't send anything again."

"Let us see." Sean shrugged his wide shoulders. His blazer was hanging on the back of a dining chair behind him. The thin material of the white polo with long sleeves was stretched on the bulging muscles of his shoulders and chest. He had removed his neck tie and unbuttoned the first three buttons. He looked more relaxed and more approachable but his sex appeal became more dangerous and lethal.

Audrie tried hard not to stare at the exposed skin of his throat and upper chest. She focused all her attention to her food. Fortunately, her appetite was not ruined by the strange situation she was in.

"Actually, the flowers are meant to arouse your curiosity." Sean spoke again after devouring half of the steak and half of the salad. He continued eating smaller morsels of meat but he was paying more attention to her now.

"Curiosity?" Audrie couldn't hide her eagerness to hear more.

"You can ask me why." Sean was smiling. His eyes seemed twinkling.

Audrie's eyes widened. Was Sean teasing her? "Uhm, why?"

"I want you to be curious about me... I want you to get to know me better..."

"W--what do you mean?" Audrie was flabbergasted.

"We're going to be family soon. I just realized that you're still a mystery to me."

She opened and closed her mouth without saying another word.

 

 

Sometimes It's Better to Live Without Love

The next morning, Audrie remained unmoving with her back lying flat on another strange bed, as her eyes explored the intricate mouldings on the ceiling and walls. The third, and least used,  guest room in the Talbot Residence was decorated in an old-fashioned way. The paint color was cream yellow. The windows had lace curtains. The canopied bed had beddings with ruffles and eyelets on the edges.The numerous furniture looked antique reproductions.

Waking up in unfamiliar surroundings seemed to have strange effects on Audrie. She started thinking about unthinkable things like going away from home at first; and now, she's thinking of buying a car. Nothing flamboyant. Her practical side would not let her splurge on a brand new one. Just a plain-looking but heavy-duty car would do. Another idea popped inside her head while she was having a warm shower. Her hair had grown longer and it was nuisance to manage. It should be cut short as soon as possible. A new image for a first date, huh? The small voice inside her brain asked tauntingly.

"Yes, why not?" Audrie replied to her reflection defiantly. She was standing in front of the bathroom's mirror while towelling dry her wet hair. "Have a life, girl. You're not a teenager anymore. Get rid of a useless infatuation. It's better to live without love if it gave nothing but pain."

Those out-of-the-blue ideas remained swirling inside her brain until she was dressed. Audrie was cooking breakfast when the kitchen phone rang.

"Hello, Audrie! Good morning, dear," her father's cheerful voice boomed loudly from the small receiver.

"Good morning, Dad. How's Mom and Anne?"

"Fine, they're just fine. Did I wake you? I called early today to apologize because I forgot to call you last night. Anne fetched us from the airport and from there, we got so busy."

"It's okay, Dad. I slept early last night and woke up early today." Audrie forced herself to sound chirpy so her father would not guess how much she's missing them.

"An early bird, as usual," her father said teasingly. "Here's your mom, dear. She wanted to speak to you, too. I love you. Take care while driving."

"Love you, too, Dad. I always take care of myself. Don't worry about me." She smiled when she heard him telling her mother not to nag 'poor' Audrie.

"Hello, Audrie." Her mother's voice sounded mildly irritated. "Your father's turned to a nagger. He reminded me about the sky-high telephone bill so I just repeat my instructions on locking up the windows and the doors before you leave in the morning and before you sleep at night."

"Don't worry about the house, Mom. I won't forget to lock anything. Will you be gone for long?"

"I don't know... maybe, we can go home next week. Hope it's still okay with you."

"Of course, Mom. I'll be here until you come back. Don't rush. Feel free to stay with Anne for as long as she needs you."

"Oh, Anne needs us here, alright." Marie's voice became muffled as though she was talking with someone in the background. "I don't think we'll be able to go home until Friday next week," she said after a short while of silence.

"That won't be a problem with me, Mom. Enjoy your stay in New York. You and Dad deserve a vacation."

"A vacation? Oh, yes, this could be a vacation." Her mother giggled somewhat nervously. "Okay, I have to say goodbye. Thank you for being there, my dear. We'll have that talk when we get back home."

"Bye, Mom." She almost said there was no need for a 'talk'. "Take good care of yourself and Dad." There was a click and then the dial tone. Audrie put down the receiver slowly. Something was amiss. Anne's trouble could be bigger and deeper than she suspected.

Audrie ate her breakfast quickly. She made a couple of sandwiches from the left-over toasts and packed them in a brown bag with some fresh berries and green salad. Her mother had stocked up the refrigerator with lots of fresh goodies so Audrie would be eating a lot of salads and fruits until next week.

The morning sun was up when Audrie locked the wrought iron gates after parking the motorbike by the sidewalk. It was not hot yet but she wore her jacket to protect her arms and work clothes from dust. She donned a face mask before putting on the large helmet. Her long hair was still wet so she let it hanging behind her back. While she was turning the ignition key, the electronic gates of the Talbot Residence swung open slowly. Audrie sighed and stayed put as she waited for the black car to come out. She'd let Sean drive away first.

Her motorbike was humming quietly when the uniformed driver of the black car got out. He was smiling politely as he walked towards her. "Ma'am, Mr. Talbot wants you to ride with us."

"What?" Audrie was stupefied.

"Sir Sean is asking you to ride in his car," the driver/bodyguard repeated the invitation in a patient tone. "You're also going to town, aren't you, missy?"

"Oh. Uhm, yes, but no, I don't want to ride in his car." Audrie was shaking her head when Sean got out from the back seat. His face was stern as he strode towards her.

"Please, accept a ride with us." His tone was dark, as though he was forced to invite her against his will.

"No, thank you." Audrie was beginning to tremble with mixed excitement and confusion.

"I insist."

"You can't force me," Audrie cut in tersely. She managed to find some courage at last. "Have a good day, Mayor Talbot." These were her last words before she quickly drove away. She could feel his eyes boring into her back but she did not dare look back to confirm her suspicion. Her breathing returned to normal when she reached the expressway, where the monotony of the sceneries in the countryside never failed to relax and calm her.

Janica and a number of girls were hanging out beside her desk when Audrie entered the office. Their faces became animated when they saw her. "Good morning, Audrie!" They greeted her cheerfully.

"Good morning..." Audrie greeted back, her brows raised questioningly. She deposited her bag beneath the table. Both her riding jacket and helmet were tied neatly on the carriage of the motorbike, which was parked in the basement parking lot.

"You got flowers, girl!" Carla, the girl who sat at a desk near the door, announced excitedly. "I signed the delivery slip for you," she added importantly.

"From a rich admirer. Those flowers are expensive! Orchids are imported!" The telephone operator girl commented while ogling the over-sized blooms with white velvety petals.

"They're from Nick, of course," Janica guessed smugly.

"Hey, there's a shiny box underneath the bouquet. C'mon, Audrie, open it!" exclaimed another girl, one finger pointing to a small package.

"Obviously, those are expensive chocolates. You're a glutton, Josie."

"I just want to see what's inside the box. What's wrong with that?"

Audrie did not know what to say or do. Thankfully, a shrill sound reverberated throughout the low building. She was saved by the bell.

"Time to work," she murmured as she switched on the computer. The girls grumbled as they dispersed one by one. Audrie was just pretending to ignore the flowers but deep inside, she was curious to know the identity of the sender. Janica could be right but her heart was hoping for somebody else.

It was during the short coffee break when Audrie decided to open the small envelope. A short note was written by a bold handwriting. It says, 'Dinner at 7 pm tonight. S'.

Audrie blushed then scowled. Her first reaction was excitement followed by irritation. Dinner with Sean! What did he mean by that? This morning, there was the ride invitation. Then, tonight...

'No, no, no! No way!' Audrie told herself vehemently. But deep inside, she knew she's too weak to decline yet it's wrong to accept.

She jumped when the telephone rang. It was Mr. McIntyre. "Miss Jacobs, I know it's coffee break but -- can I have a few minutes of your time, please?"

"Oh, of course, sir." Audrie replied tensely. She crossed the short distance towards the manager's enclosed office.

The manager was beaming as he welcomed Audrie and offered a seat. "Thank you for cutting short your breaktime, Miss Jacobs. I am just so excited about this good news."

"Good news?"

"First, I'd like to congratulate you because you've just been promoted. Our Personnel Department has shortlisted possible candidates for this new position -- and since you're on the number one slot, I decided to choose you, Miss Jacobs. You are now the officer-in-charge in our new branch office."
"Oh! This is a nice surprise, Mr. McIntyre." Audrie couldn't help herself but smile. "I wasn't expecting this. Thank you very much for the trust."

"You're known as hardworking and patient. Always composed and calm. These are qualities that we want for our new branch chief officer." Mr. McIntyre stood up to shake hands with Audrie.

Audrie blushed while listening to praises about her personality. The manager made her sound like a competent individual, who was quite capable of dealing with any types of trouble. She didn't know that other people still noticed her despite her tendency to maintain a low profile and remain in the background. She never wanted to draw attention towards herself and it's quite ironical that her superiors at work saw and liked her introvert ways.

"The new branch office is still under renovation but I would like you to take over as soon as possible. I hope, it'll be okay with you?"

"Uhm, may I know the location of the branch, sir?" Audrie asked shyly.

"Of course, of course," Mr. McIntyre laughed. "I am sorry for the remiss. Here's the address." The manager bustled to get a pen and paper from the wide office desk. It was made of solid wood. Small mounds of folders and papers were scattered all over the desk. "It is in the next town. Don't worry about the transportation because the company will provide a service car to you." He was explaining while scribbling an address on a company stationary. "The telephone was already installed and working," he said as he added a string of numbers as well.

Audrie's head was whirling but one thing was sure -- she felt relieved. These past few days, she had been wishing and planning to make some major changes in her life. It was amazing how fate was able to interfere without much effort.

"I suggest that you proceed to the Personnel office for further details, Miss Jacobs. Congratulations once again."

"Thank you, sir. This is awesome."

"Well, you're awesome, too." The manager grinned.

Audrie spent the rest of that day listening to further instructions from the personnel manager. And she was still high with excitement when she went home after office hours. The disturbing dinner invitation was completely out of her mind.

She'd Rather Love an Enemy Than a Friend

Sean and his group left at about three in the afternoon. It was coffee break but for the first time, no one rushed to the coffee vending machine. Everyone was pretending to be busy but actually switched on waiting mode. The manager should be ready to answer questions from overly-curious employees -- or he would be listening to a week-long grumble about insensitive and anti-human rights employers.

Audrie was curious, too; but she would never join the askers. Sometimes, it was better to be ignorant.

There was a hushed silence when the mayor and his companions passed through the rows of office desks once again. Audrie followed Sean with her eyes, silently saying goodbye. Why was it so painful to love him? Her heart was asking while bleeding to death. Was it because he didn't and couldn't love you back...? Audrie cried inside herself quietly.

The hush-hush atmosphere broke out right after the manager went back inside the wide-spaced office area.

"Sir, what's up?"

"Good news or bad news?"

"Will he be back, sir?"

"Is he the new owner?"

Mr. McIntyre just laughed and raised up both his hands to stop the torrent of questions from the employees. "No bad news, no merging. It's just good news. Mayor Talbot paid me a visit to personally invite me to his wedding--as his best man."

"Ooh, noo!" Half of the female employees swooned loudly. "He's marrying!"

"Everyone here is invited as well," the beaming manager continued. "No need to bring wedding gifts so don't ask for raises. Ha-ha." He laughed at his own joke.

Audrie was feeling very cold inside as she listened. How could she survive the wedding? Could she really watch Sean and Anne getting married? Maybe, this afternoon is a sign for her to pursue her plan to leave home now. She heaved a deep sigh. Yes, she must try her wings and try to stand on her own feet  while she still has time.

"Hello, Audrie." She was still deep in thoughts when Nick suddenly appeared beside her desk.

"Huh? Oh, Nick! I didn't see you coming. Sorry." Nick was one of the engineers assigned in the docks. His office was located in the ground floor.

"The boss called us to come up here to listen to the mayor's wedding invites." Nick's look was searching once again. Audrie could not hold his eyes so she keep on glancing away. "Can we have dinner tonight?"

"Tonight?" Her negative answer must be stamped on her expressive face.

"What about tomorrow night?" Nick looked persistent.

"I don't know..."

"I hope you're not still mad at me, Audrie."

"I'm not mad at you, Nick." Audrie saw Janica looking at them speculatively. "If you'd be free this Friday..."

"Friday! Great! What time?"

"About seven--? Or is it too early?" Audrie asked tentatively. This was her first formal date with a man. And she's feeling a bit lost. Anne and Aimee would have known what to say and do with any man.

"No, seven is quite fine. Can I have your address?"

"Let's just meet somewhere."

"Okay. I'll be at the Fritz at seven o'clock on Friday." Nick's callused palm covered Audrie's freezing hand. "Thank you for accepting, at last!" His smile was warm and his eyes were twinkling.

Audrie felt guilty at once. She almost took back her acceptance but she didn't have the heart to disappoint Nick again. He had invited her for countless times before. She always looked at him as a good friend or even a big brother.

'But it's not fair to use a good friend as a shield and distraction!' A voice inside her mind scolded her sternly. Loving Sean had caused her nothing but pain and despair. Loving Nick would surely cause her more pain because she'd always long for Sean. Her choise was without logic or reason; but she'd rather love an enemy than a friend.

Someone called Nick. He turned his head and waved then faced Audrie again. "I hope you won't call me before Friday." He was still smiling but his tone was serious.

"Why?"

"Because you might get cold feet and cancel our first date."

"Oh."

"Please give me a chance to know you, Audrie."

"I--It's not-- Please let's not rush into anything, Nick," she forced herself to talk calmly even when her panic was starting to rise.

"We won't," Nick pacified her quickly. "Bye for now. Until Friday."

"Got a date on Friday, huh?" Janica said tauntingly when Nick was gone.

Audrie ignored her without much effort. She got a lot of things inside her mind.

*    *    *

That night, after a warm shower and a light dinner, Aurdie called her mother.

"Audrie! I've been waiting for your call since 6 o'clock." Marie Jacobs sounded frazzled.

"Are you busy, Mom? I'll call again later." Audrie offered hopefully. She was dreading this conversation.

"No. I mean, yes. Something's come up in New York. We have to fly there tonight."

"Oh! Is Anne in trouble?"

"I don't know. She just called us earlier and asked us to fly there at once."

"Can I help?"

"Yes. Please go home tonight and watch the house. Aimee's not here, too. Her agent came here this afternoon to fetch her."

Audrie closed her eyes. She didn't want to go home yet. "Okay," she agreed reluctantly.

"Thank you, Audrie. We might be gone for several days. I don't know. Anne's invitation was so mysterious."

"Please give Anne my love, Mom. Take care of yourselves, you and Dad." Audrie tried to hide her growing worry.

"Yes. Thank you, dear. I know you're also having a hard time now but Anne seemed... odd."

"Please, don't worry about me, Mom. I'm alright now."

"I'm happy to hear that but we'll have that talk soon. That's a promise."

Audrie did not reply anymore. She'd make sure her mother would forget about her 'troubles' by returning to and staying in the background. Anne is always a good distraction.

After the call, Audrie donned her jacket and packed the few things that she pulled out of the large backpack. She wrapped the dirty clothes in a separate plastic bag. Johnny was not on duty so she was able to check out without much conversation. Charra was not around, too. Without the two familiar faces, the hotel suddenly turned into a cold place for Audrie. She was glad she's going home after all.

The town was bustling with activities because it was still early. She drove along the streets carefully, her motorbike purring quietly. Some of her acquaintances saw Audrie passing by and waved at her invitingly. She waved back but did not stop. The bars were the last places that she'd want to visit in a long time.

Her parents were ready to leave when she arrived.

"Thank God, you're here at last, Audrie!" exclaimed her mother. "Don't forget to lock the windows and doors."

"We will call you the moment we arrived in New York, Audrie," her father promised.

Audrie was smiling and nodding during the brief and flurried goodbyes. But after she closed the iron gates, her forced smile disappeared slowly. She was alone once again.

"Home sweet home," she whispered to herself as she dragged her large backpack inside the silent house. She switched off the lights in the living room on her way to the kitchen. She fetched a big jug of ice-cold orange juice before going upstairs. Her destination was the small guestroom located at the end of the corrider. The windows in the room faced their backyard so she wouldn't see Sean anymore.

Loving from Afar is Like Reaching for the Stars

"I'm sorry, Mom." Audrie winced but tried hard to speak calmly. "I came home last night but only to get some clothes."

"Yes, I gathered that. I checked your closet." There was a short but heavy pause after the clipped response. "And what do you mean by stowing away?" Her mother's tone sounded hurt and disappointed this time.

"Mom, I didn't mean to leave without telling you. I'm really sorry. I just... needed some time to think... I didn't mean to worry you and Dad... I'm so sorry I acted so selfishly." Audrie was deeply shamed for being self-centered and callous to her loved ones.

"Oh, Audrie! Why didn't you tell us about it? We will help you with whatever problem you have." Her mother was concerned at once. "Come home now and let's talk about the break-up."

"Break-up?" Audrie was confused.

"I'm sorry for being a wretched mother. I didn't realize that you could also have a boyfriend like your sisters," her mother continued. "I thought you're not interested in men. Sorry, really sorry for the wrong conclusion."

Audrie's mouth opened and closed like a fly trap. Did her mother really think she's a lesbian? she asked herself in shock. "Mom--"

"Or is it a girlfriend? Oh my, I'm sorry again! Don't worry, we will accept you as you are. We will never reject you. You're still our child, Audrie."

"Mom, please," Audrie gasped. Her cheeks were burning with so much embarrassment. Other occupants in the open planned office area were returning from lunch break. She would be the week's hottest topic of the grapevine if anyone overheard her mother. "Please, I'll just call you tonight. I -- I have to go back to work now. Thank you..."

"Oh, alright, let's talk again tonight. But I want you to go home, dear."

"I can't --" Audrie was whispering now because the occupant of the desk next to hers had arrived. "I have to go. Bye."

"Ok, bye for now. I'll wait for your call."

Audrie's appetite had disappeared. She was so tensed she couldn't eat anymore. She wrapped the left-over burger and put it inside her sling bag.

"Mummy checking on you, huh, Audrie baby?" Janica, the girl next desk, had a sly look on her thin face. She was chewing bubble gum as usual. She had an obnoxious way of blowing and popping gum balloons. "Finally showing your bad girl side, huh?"

Audrie ignored Janica. She pretended she did not hear anything as she resumed typing on her keyboard.

"Heard about you and Nicky being hottie to each other," Janica continued. The girl seemed in a bold mood because she crossed the small space between their desks and sat beside Audrie's monitor. As she swayed her dangling leg, the old limbs of the desk squeaked in protest. "Did you sleep with him? Nicky's been panting for you like a horny street dog."

Audrie hid her wince on Janica's crudeness. Her face remained expressionless as she stared at the monitor's screen. She had learned a long time ago that clashing with people like Janica would be a waste of time. Quarreling with co-workers, who didn't know how to respect other people's privacy and boundary, was useless and anti-productive. She silently prayed for some miracle -- a distraction that would take Janica's attention to her. Someone above must be listening to prayers even at lunch time because a small commotion had suddenly materialized near the wide entrance.

"What the --?" Janica was gone like the wind to inspect the latest happening.

Audrie was silently thanking her lucky stars when her world was suddenly rocked to its roots. It was Sean Talbot who caused such a stir in the place. Her heart started beating faster than a sonic train. What was he doing here? Her mind knew she was not the reason to Sean's visit to their company; but her heart was hopeful.

She had always thought the location of her desk was unfortunate because it was beside the manager's closed cubicle. The large clear glass window was along the line of her vision because her chair was side by side to one framed corner of the window. With just a small movement of her head, she could see the interior of the boss' office.

Mr. McIntyre, the manager and owner, rushed out of the office to greet the town's mayor personally. He guided the whole entourage towards the conference room while talking excitedly. A few minutes later, he and Sean became the occupants of the private cubicle. They used the adjoining door from the conference area.

Sean sat down on the couch near the glass window. He would see her staring at him if he moved his head slightly towards the window; but, thankfully, he was busy talking to the manager.

Audrie let her eyes feast on Sean's profile. She had always wished to have at least close-up shot of Sean to keep in her wallet but she dared not grant that forbidden wish. If anyone would see his photo in her possession, she would just die of shame. Sean had always been a secret fascination to Audrie. And now that she got a rare chance to look at his face, even though at side view, she couldn't stop herself from staring.

Sean Talbot is good-looking but he's not as handsome as a movie star. His features are not smooth and perfect. There is a slight bump on the thin bridge of his nose. His jaw bones look too large and protruding. His high forehead has thin lines even at young age. The laughter lines on both ends of his eyes lessened the somber look on his strong face. Despite the imperfections, Sean's face possesses a solid magnetism that pulls the attention. No one can ever ignore Sean. Aside from being taller than most men in Love City, his athletic body moves agilely.

Audrie blushed as she recalled the countless weekend mornings that she spent ogling Sean's muscular torso while he's playing basketball in his own yard. Sometimes he just lay on a lounger to sunbath for an hour or two before taking a dive into the swimming pool located at the rear part of the Talbot's large house. She could not see him swim but she could hear the loud splashes of water. This privilege to spy on Sean could be lost once she decided to live away from home -- and even if she didn't. She will transfer to a different bedroom so that she could stay away from the temptation of watching Sean every weekend through the window.

His eyes are as black as night; like the color of his thick, wavy hair. When he was younger, he let his hair grow to shoulder-length. He looked like a rockstar and lots of girls would scream whenever he passes by riding a Harley. On hindsight, maybe this was the reason why Audrie bought a motorbike with her first month salary. When he graduated from college, the long hairstyle was replaced by a clean haircut. The thin moustache and beard he sported then were also shaved closely. Sean Talbot was groomed to look wholesome and respectable. He must be shaving twice a day to be able to maintain that suave smoothness he always has. He always wore tailored business suits and shiny black shoes wherever he went; even until he became Love City's youngest and first bachelor mayor. When he was inside the privacy of his home, he would sometimes wear boxer shorts or old jeans with holes and a t-shirt or nothing.

The manager must have said something funny because Sean suddenly threw back his head to laugh heartily. Audrie was fascinated as she looked at his white even teeth. Her earlobe tingled as it remembered the gentle nip of those same teeth. Audrie shivered. Her fingers touched the part of her neck where those teeth had grazed intimately. Her body was screaming for the memories with Sean to stop but she just couldn't take away her eyes from watching him. While laughing, Sean was suddenly looking young and carefree again. It seemed their manager and the town mayor was long-time friends.

"Isn't he so handsome?"

"He's gorgeous!"

"And he's still single!"

"Single with complications? He's got a beautiful girlfriend, y'know! A pretty-pretty super model!"

Audrie's heart skipped. She didn't want to be known as Anne's sister to these girls. She wanted to remain as 'the silent worker' in the office. Her life would be hell once she became known as a celebrity's relative.

"I'll settle to be his mistress!"

"Your wish is impossible! Just ask to be his one-night-stand! ha-ha!"

"Stop it, girls! And let's not get too obvious. The boss might notice us and he -- darn! -- he pulled down the blinds! I told you to behave!" Janica was very furious.

"Well, we know he'd do that sooner or later." The girls shrugged and moved away as one. "Our boss just loves to bait gossip mongers like us!"

"Monster papparazzis, you mean!" Janica snapped. The girls just giggled loudly as they sat on their chairs. They faced their computers but made no attempt to start working. They're too much excited about Sean's presence in their usually dull and quiet office.

Audrie was only able to continue her task through sheer determination. She could not see Sean anymore but his image was indelibly imprinted on her mind. She'd just close her eyes to see a replay of Sean throwing up his head to laugh. And each time she did a rewind of the scene, Audrie was coming to a realization that Sean had not been looking happy for a long time. She knew now that his sadness was caused by Anne's reluctance to get married. Her heart was weeping with sadness. Loving him from afar was all she could do. Anything she offered would just be rejected. Sean needs only Anne. He made that clear on his letter.

 

 

Audrie's Slow Awakening to Womanhood

The Jacobs Residence was silent when Audrie arrived home that evening. Her plan to leave the office after lunch had gone awry as task after task ate away the hours. She was exhausted by the time five o'clock came. Her first thought was to go back to the hotel and get an immediate rest but wearing the same clothes again tomorrow was more unpalatable so she dragged herself to drive homeward.

No one greeted her arrival. Her mother would peek from a window at the sound of her motorbike or her father would wave if he's weeding in the garden. Her two sisters were always away on their modelling stints but when they were younger and still all living together at home, Anne and Aimee would just holler 'hello there' and then go back to what they're currently doing. Audrie would probably miss them while she's away. No, not probably; she would surely miss them now that she's grown up and ready to fly away from the nest, too.

"I'm sorry, Mom, Dad," Audrie whispered as she pushed open the front door. "I should ask properly but I don't have enough courage to face you both --" She stopped as she found herself suddenly face to face with her father and mother on the family portrait hanging in the large living room. Her sisters and her own self were also on the painting. All five faces seemed accusing as they stared back at her, especially her own.

Audrie heaved a deep breath to shake off the guilt that overcame her. "Well, personally. I -- I just need some time... and space... to grow up a little bit more. Mom, I promise, I will be a matured Audrie the next time you see me." Her voice was shaking and her eyes were brimming with tears.

The other parts of the house were in darkness, except the hallways. The kitchen beckoned at her but Audrie's desire to get away was more pressing than the needs of her grumbling stomach. She skipped lunch again and she was hungry but she didn't want to stay longer than necessary. Maybe she'd get something to take with her after she got some clothes from her room.

Audrie felt like a stranger when she entered her bedroom. She was gone for only one night but it seemed like a year had passed. "Oh, Audrie, you're not a young girl anymore..." She murmured while facing the oval mirror of her dresser. For the first time, Audrie looked at her image closely. Some of her closer friends always told her that she resembled both Anne and Aimee. Although she didn't believe them, the thought always made her feel glad because everybody else was calling her the 'ugly duckling'. Her own family would joke about Audrie growing up to a beautiful and elegant swan, just like in the story. And when Audrie failed to do that, the joke died down. Everyone became resigned and accustomed to see a plain and quiet girl in the Jacobs' house where two of the most beautiful women in Love City live, namely: Anne and Aimee Jacobs.

Audrie idolized her older sisters and tried to emulate them in her own timid way. Her hair was also naturally straight and shiny black so she let it grow to waist length even though long hair was a nuisance when riding a motorbike. Her skin is darker but smooth and clear. She had an occasional pimple and some tiny freckles sprinkled on tip of her nose. If her skin would become lighter, those freckles would be visible. Like her sisters, Audrie inherited the height and body build of their father. She is taller than Anne and Aimee but seemed heavier because she's not in constant diet mode. Her sisters always pick at their food while she devours everything on sight. Audrie needed to have more meat on her bones to be able to drive her big bike. Her favorite pasttime, horseback riding, is also a bit physically demanding. Maybe she really has a turbo-charged metabolism, just like her friends always said. They were somewhat envious of Audrie's healthy appetite and willowy shape. Privately, Audrie always felt large and clumsy compared to her gracefully slim sisters.

Their mother was endowed with classical features: high cheekbones, slightly aristocratic nose, delicately molded brows, and a heart-shaped face. Marie Jacobs is tiny and a bit chubby. Her complexion is unblemished and creamy white, which her sisters inherited as well as the classic look. Audrie got the maternal cheekbones and just the mild version of the nose. Hers is smaller. She also has large almond-shaped eyes their Mom but without the long thick lashes, which Anne has. Those incredibly long lashes made Anne's jet-black eyes look languorous and seductive. Aimee and Audrie both have golden brown eyes, which they got from their father. Aimee's lashes are much longer than Audrie's.

Audrie pulled a face at her reflection when she realized the comparison list was getting longer and more detailed.

"Hey, stranger, you must stop comparing yourself to your sisters from now on. Self-confidence is the first sign of maturity. Insecurity creates bitterness." Audrie shook her head as she scolded herself for wallowing in foolishness. "Hah! Where did you get those sayings? Just keep it simple: you must accept the fact that you'd never look elegant or sophisticated so stop dreaming!" she snorted as she turned away. She pulled out clothes from the closet and packed them into a large backpack bag carelessly. She could buy anything that she forgot to take with her. She had lost track of time while dawdling in front of the mirror. She should move fast to avoid meeting Aimee or her parents.

"Goodbye for now, bedroom," Audrie whispered before closing the door hastily.

The sky above was very dark. The full moon looked gloomy without the stars and surrounded by thick clouds. The cool air was heavy with moisture and felt like it would rain that night. The streets outside were deserted. There were no people around. Or is it supper time? Audrie glanced at her wrist, forgetting that she hadn't been wearing her leather watch since yesterday. Darn! That's the first thing she had to buy.

The highway was lonely as well. There were few motorists travelling both sides of the wide roads. It seemed late but Audrie wasn't sure. Her daydreamings were often time eaters in the past. However, she always enjoyed driving her motorcycle in the dark. It was like she was transferred in a peaceful world, away from all mental worries and emotional pains. She could drive forever this way.

Audrie reached the hotel much earlier than last night. Johnny looked genuinely pleased to see her again.

"Good evening, ma'am," he greeted with a wide smile. "Would you like your usual room?"

Audrie smiled as she nodded. "Yes, please."

"Can I take your luggage, ma'am?" Johnny asked after she signed the logbook and got the roomkey.

"No need, but please park my bike again."

"As you wish, ma'am." Johnny curtsied clumsily as he took the keys from her.

Audrie felt relieved when she reached the impersonal hotel room. She's so tired she just wanted to lie down and sleep.

And sleep she did for ten solid hours. Her young body needed to recharge so badly, it did not let anything awoke her until morning arrived. Audrie was ravenous when her breakfast was delivered by a shy girl from Room Service. Apparently, today was Charra's day-off.

After a cold and refreshing shower, Audrie dressed and went downstairs. Johnny was busy with a number of guests but her bike was already waiting outside so she just waved goodbye. The office was buzzing with activities like it was a Monday but Audrie welcomed every task assigned to her. Work prevented her from thinking about anything. But it was too much to hope that her personal obligations could stay away forever. At lunch time, the telephone on her desk rang while she's munching a large burger ordered from the nearby fastfood outlet. She washed down a mouthful with a large gulp of soda before she picked up the receiver.

"Hello, good afternoon. Blue Marlin Shipping Lines. May I help you?"

"Audrie! Why didn't you come home last night?" Her mother's angry voice was shrill and loud.

 

A Young Girl's Crush Turning into a Woman's True Love

As Audrie expected, she didn't sleep well that night. She couldn't stop herself from thinking about Sean. It's impossible to forget him now but she should find a better way of dealing with him. First and foremost, she should learn how to control her volatile reactions towards him. Audrie was stinged by her mother's irritable comment about her acting like a teenager even when she's already twenty-two years old.

"Mom's right," Audrie told herself aloud. She was lying on the bed without moving and just staring on the plain ceiling for several hours now; while her mind was running around endlessly. Her secret crush for Sean had turned to a rebellious love -- but she's not a teenager anymore... So how should she deal with the powerful emotions as a woman?

She could never ask her mother or sister Aimee for advice. They would surely take Anne's side and protect her from the likes of Audrie, who would be automatically placed in the role of a villain in Anne's beautiful love story. Just thinking about the rift her forbidden love for Sean could create in her family gives Audrie a pain that can maim her.

Audrie turned on her side slowly and curled like a fetus inside a mother's womb. She needs protection, too; but she has no one to turn to. Since she was a child, people always overlooked her because her two pretty sisters were always eye-catchers; while plain and dowdy Audrie was content to remain in the background. She grew up wearing casual clothes. Her shoddy jeans were her comfort zones. Even in the midst of a crowd, Audrie always felt alone because the crowd sees only Anne and Aimee. Both beautiful and elegant, her sisters always outshine everyone in a room -- particularly Audrie, who prefers to be a wallflower rather than a centerpiece.

Audrie rocked herself while crying silently. She has no one but herself. That fact made her cry but, as tears started piercing her closed eyes, a strange feeling crept over her; as though her admission to weakness had given way to the birth of a new strength inside her. Maybe her character had just grown while she's feeling miserable!

Audrie stopped crying and fell asleep with dried tears on her cheeks. It was a fitful sleep though. She woke up when sunlight began peeking into the heavily curtained windows. She was stretching her aching limbs when someone knocked on the door. She froze instantly, her heart beating fast at once.

"Ma'am? Here's your breakfast." A woman's voice penetrated the room's panelled door.

Combing shaky fingers into her bed-rumpled hair, Audrie scrambled to get off the bed. She opened the door cautiously. She found ayoung woman like her age wearing a cheerful smile.

"Good morning, ma'am! My name's Charra. Sorry to wake you up but we always offer hot breakfasts to our guests at an early time."

"It's alright." Audrie tried to smile naturally. "Uhm, thank you for the breakfast, Charra." She was conscious of her tear-stained cheeks as she opened the door wider to let the hotel employee push the trolley cart inside the room.

"I'll be back at nine to clean the room, ma'am. But only if it's ok with you?"

"Yes, it will be fine." Audrie pulled out a crumpled bill from her pocket and offered it shyly to Charra.

"Thank you, ma'am." Charra bowed her head as she slipped the bill into a pocket beneath the white apron she wore. "Whenever you need anything, like dry cleaning or something, please call Room Service."

"Yes. Thanks again." Audrie closed the door carefully to avoid arousing Charra's curiosity further. The cheerfully inquisitive room service attendant was already intrigued with Audrie's haggard appearance -- and maybe to her lack of luggage as well. Her cheeks flamed as she looked down at the rumpled jeans and shirt she obviously wore in her sleep.

Feeling suddenly disgusted with herself, Audrie ran into the bathroom and peeled off the clothes. She used the complimentary shampoo and bath soap liberally. She wanted to wash off all the negative thoughts as well as the normal dirt from her body.

"No more self-pitying, Audrie Jacobs!" she scolded her reflection on the mirror while combing her towel-dried hair. "Look straight ahead and move forward. Avoid distractions." But what are your goals? Audrie's other self challenged the strength and direction of her resolve. Forget Sean? Ignore Sean? Live with the pain of watching Sean and Anne together forever?

"Stop!" Audrie gasped in pain. The sarcastic questions reverberating inside her mind were like knives cutting her heart into small pieces. But one point got across clearly enough. She should continue growing up. She could never fight all these grown-up stuffs if she's still a teenager by heart and in mind. Her mother's harsh observation hurt her but it also gave guidance.

"Thank you, Mom," Audrie whispered before turning away to pick up the dirty clothes on the floor. The large bath towel she wrapped around her wet body had reached to her mid-thighs. She could wear this until her clothes were returned back from the drycleaners. Within a few minutes after her call, Charra appeared outside her room once again.

"This will take 15 to 20 minutes only, ma'am."

"That's good. Thank you again, Charra." This time, Audrie could smile almost naturally.

"You're welcome." Charra bowed again.

Audrie was still smiling as she closed the door. Talking to a cheerful individual, even though a stranger, is somewhat refreshing. 'Welcome to the real world, Audrie,' said a tiny voice inside her mind. "Finally, you're getting out of your shell!"

"No need for sarcasm, Audrie." She shook her head as her stomach grumbled. She laughed at the rudeness of her intestines but stopped at once after hearing the golden sound of mirth. Did she really laugh? Yes. It seemed she could still feel joy even when she's still hurting. Well, that's good news. Or was it really bad news because she's just pretending?

Audrie shrugged. "It's time to eat, said my stomach," she muttered as she lifted the shiny metallic cover from the food tray. Her nose wrinkled appreciatively as she sniffed at the delicious aroma of freshly-baked bread, fried sausages, omelette, and brewed coffee. "Lovely!" she exclaimed after swallowing a large gulp of hot coffee. She couldn't remember the last time she ate yesterday. Her weakness could be due to hunger. She's so hungry she could eat a horse right now -- but she had to catch a horse first. It was a funny thought but her short giggle was laced with hysteria.

She was swallowing the last morsel when Charra knocked on her door again.

"Ma'am, here are your clothes."

"That was fast!" Audrie was pleasantly surprised. "Thank you so much."

"You're welcome. By the way, there's a letter for you."

"A letter?"

Charra pulled out a long and white envelope from the pocket beneath her apron. "Here it is."

"Who brought it?" Audrie noted the lack of stamp on the envelope so she presumed the letter delivered by someone.

"Johnny said it was a young man. Just asked about your name, left this envelope, and then ran away."

"Oh. Please thank Johnny for me." Audrie was feeling tensed again but she was able to hide it behind a bright smile. "Oh, and please thank the cook, too. The breakfast is delicious."

"Nanna will be pleased to hear that. And, of course, Johhny, too." Once again, Charra performed her customary bow before leaving. She was still smiling as she turned away.

Audrie ripped off the one end of the envelope with trembling fingers. Her eyes flew at the bottom of the page to see if her suspicion was correct. The note was from Sean. She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply before she started reading the short message.

'I want you to forget what happened last night and the night before that. Those mistakes won't ever be repeated. By the way, your friend is still detained at the police station. You might want to visit him first thing this morning. Sean'

Audrie shivered. The letter was cold but most sensible. If she could just erase everything that happened between them. She was relieved because she could go back to the background again. She preferred to be ignored. It was safer. Somehow, she was not surprised to learn that Sean knew about Nick as well as her hiding place. Sean, as the mayor,  was the most powerful man in Love City.

She dressed quickly and left the room in a hurry. Johnny was at the reception desk, looking slightly haggard. He smiled cheerfully when he saw her coming down the stairs.

"Good morning, ma'am. Your bike is waiting outside. I got it washed and cleaned for you. Here are your keys." He proferred the bunch of shiny keys.

"Oh, thanks!" Audrie was overwhelmed but pleased. She took the keys smilingly.

"You're very much welcome."

"I'm checking out. Please charge my card." She placed her credit card on the counter.

Johnny processed the transaction with deft movements. "Please sign here. Hope you enjoyed your stay here."

"Yes, of course. The place is nice and the service is excellent." Audrie signed the receipts then pulled out several paper bills from her wallet. "Please accept my gift and share it with Charra and Nanna."

"Thank you, generous ma'am." Johnny showed his appreciation by accompanying Audrie outside. Like magician, he whisked a clean rag and rubbed the already shining handle bar of the motorbike. The vehicle looked spanky. Even the black leather seat glowed under the morning sun.

"Goodbye, Johnny."

"Hope to see you again, ma'am."

Audrie waved before she drove away. Her first destination was the police station. Nick was released the moment she signed a waiver saying she would not file any complaint against the detainee.

"I'm really sorry, Audrie. I got so careless and rude." Nick apologized sheepishly. He looked so embarrassed. "I won't taste beer ever again." His promise was so fervent it sounded fake yet comical.

Audrie smiled. "You'd die without beer. Don't worry about it anymore. Just don't repeat it again."

"Yes. I'm so glad you could still forgive me."

"Let's forget all about it. C'mon, I'll give you a ride to your place."

"No, I'll just take a taxi. I'm so dirty 'coz I slept on the floor." Nick looked down at his grubby clothes disgustedly. "I won't be coming to work today. I have a splitting headache."

"Hangover." Audrie nodded.

"Will you go to work today?"

"Yup. I always have urgent things to do every Monday. But I might leave early."

"Be careful with your driving."

"Yeah, thanks."

"I'm the only one who should be thanking you, Audrie. Thank you for being so good and understanding," Nick insisted. His tone and eyes became tender and warm as he stared at her searchingly.

Audrie felt uncomfortable at once. Nick would never be more than a friend. She knew that now. Her love for Sean would always be true and deep. She could hide it but she could never kill it.

 

 

 

Forbidden Love is Killing Her Softly

"Anne," Audrie uttered her sister's name desperately. "She loves you. She still loves you very much," she added insistently. She was persuading herself at the same time. Sean had been drinking. She had been sipping beer since this afternoon. They were both drunk. 'Oh, God! Let me be stronger this time, please!' she prayed silently.

"Anne is not mine anymore. I can feel it to my bones now." Sean stopped in front of the chair where Audrie sat looking as frightened as a hunted deer. She couldn't move even when all her nerves were screaming at her to escape.

"Please, let me go home now," she pleaded shakily. "Please, let me take a taxi --"

"No," Sean said flatly. He had a determined look, as though his mind was made up on something -- or someone. 

Her whole body shook as though electrocuted when his fingers grasped both her arms. He plucked her off from the chair she was sitting on. As the warmth of his palms seeped through the thick fabric of her jacket, her fingers clutching on the chair's wooden seat instantly weakened and automatically let go. She was swaying as he hauled her up. She couldn't stand properly because her knees buckled.

"I want to kiss you again," Sean stated matter-of-factly. "I want to know if last night's kiss was just a figment of my imagination."

"No!" Audrie tried to struggle but all her strength had escaped out of her limbs. She was a willing captive of his embrace once again. Only through sheer determination that she was able to turn her head away from his invading mouth. "Stop it, please," she pleaded hoarsely. Her voice was shaking with mixed fear and anticipation.

"Shh, be quiet..." He planted a firm kiss on her neck, causing her to whimper. It was like getting marked by a smouldering iron. "Don't fight it." His strong teeth nipped her earlobe gently before grazing the sensitive skin of her cheek while travelling towards her trembling lips. "We are destined to kiss again. You made sure of that when you responded so hotly last night..." His warm lips hovered over her mouth as he whispered the words that taunt and torment her sensibility. He knew she was as weak as a sacrificial lamb while she was being held tightly in his arms.

Audrie tried to speak but only a strangled sound of protest emitted from her hurting throat. His mouth swooped down to capture her lips. She moaned in surrender. Fighting her need for him when her body's next to him was just a losing battle. She's just a woman in love now. Why not savor these sweet moments while she could? her other self asked defiantly.

Audrie didn't need much persuasion. She kissed him back with all the pent-up passion that she had for Sean.

The world seemed to stop moving as they kissed each other hungrily. His hands roamed everywhere. He touched her cheek, hair, back, waist, hips, thighs... His touch burned her skin, as though leaving his marks of ownership all over her body. Her fingers clutched at the lapels of his blazer because she felt like falling into a very deep and very dark abyss where she could never return if she fell. There seemed no turning back...

The shrill sound of a telephone ringing had suddenly broke into the thick silence of the blazing intimacy that Audrie and Sean were sharing. The interruption didn't register to her at once but Sean pushed her away almost at once. It seemed like he was consciously waiting for the call even while he was kissing her.

Audrie dropped on the nearest couch feeling bewildered and disoriented. 'Where am I?' she asked herself, then she saw Sean talking urgently on the telephone. When she heard him uttering Anne's name several times, her lost sanity returned abruptly. She felt like a small airplane getting battered by a gusty wind before crushing on the hard ground below.

While Sean was distracted, Audrie forced herself to stand and walk towards the kitchen. She wanted to get away from him fast. She'd hide anywhere if she couldn't get out of the house now. But she was in luck because the back door could be opened easily. Most of her strength had returned back to her limbs so she could move quickly again. The well-oiled gate swinged open without a squeak.

She stopped on her tracks momentarily when she saw her motorbike parked behind the black car. Somehow, she knew the smirking policeman brought her vehicle here. As her fingers automatically searched for the keys, she realized the rumpled state of her clothing. The hems of both her undershirt and jacket were riding above the waistline. Sean's caressing hands also unbuttoned her jeans. Her cold cheeks burned as she tried to tidy her disheveled clothes with trembling hands. Using a large rubber band that she always wore like a bracelet, she tied up her long hair before putting on the helmet. Her thoroughly ravaged lips tingled painfully against the cold night air.

She knew she couldn't control the motorbike properly yet so she just walked while pushing it slowly and carefully. She dared not drive recklessly here because only one small mistake could cost her to pay thousands, even millions, if she accidentally crashed against the luxury cars that were parked along the streets. Her family is well-off but they still cannot afford to live in a place for wealthy residents.

Not wanting to face her parents right after a shameful indiscretion, Audrie decided to go to a cheap but reputable hotel. The company she works for always uses the place for business conferences so she's familiar with the pricing. Her savings may be dented a bit but the money spent would be worth the space that she needed for herself.

Two encounters with Sean always left her drained and ravaged, especially when they happened within two consecutive nights. She'd die with shame if she saw Sean again shortly after tonight. She would be utterly devastated and she might lose all her cautiousness in the wind. Sean's kisses always left her senseless. She couldn't think anything. She just -- feel...

Is this really love? Or is it just an obsession? Why does she feel deliriously happy and deeply depressed at the same time? Because her love for Sean was forbidden...?

"Would you like me to take your luggage upstairs, ma'am?"

Audrie flinched when the young man in the reception area asked her.

"Pardon?" she asked in a confused tone.

"Sorry, ma'am. I just want to help you with the luggage."

"Oh -- I don't have any luggage." Audrie forced a smile on her stiff lips. "Do -- do you have a secluded place where I can park my bike?"

"Yes, ma'am. Would you like me to park it for you?" The porter/receptionist offered politely.

"Oh, yes, please. Thank you so much." She gave him the keys without hesitation.

"And here's the key to your room. The room number's in the keychain."

Audrie nodded as she thanked him again.

As she got inside the hotel room, the black telephone beckoned at her. She must call her parents now. After taking several deep breaths, she picked up the receiver and dialed the numbers. Her Mom answered the phone.

"It's Audrie, Mom."

"Where are you? Sean called and told us that you slipped away from him."

Audrie swallowed hard and forced herself to speak in a light tone. "I'm not a teenager, Mom."

"Yes, that's correct but you still act like one. So where are you now?"

"I'm in a friend's house. Don't worry. I'm safe here."

"What time are you going home tomorrow?"

"I -- I don't know..." Audrie bit her lip hard because she couldn't tell her mother about her plan to get away for a while.

"Do you have the house keys with you?"

"Yes --"

"Good. Aimee is not here, too. I and your Dad will be at the charity ball tomorrow night. We'll be home very late."

"I see..."

"Take care, Audrie. Good night."

"Good night, Mom -- and to Dad."

"I'll tell him. He's on the phone, too. Talking to Sean."

Audrie felt like a deflated balloon but she couldn't just stand there and wait to die whenever she hears his name.

 

 

 

Fight Love... Must Fight Love Even As She Burns 

Audrie's distracted silence ended when she looked outside the car's window and saw the long row of opulent houses on both sides of the quiet streets. If she saw Sean's townhouse as well as his residential home, she'd have more memories to erase from her mind. The Talbot's garden alone would surely give her a lot of nightmarish dreams...

She felt hot and cold at the same time. "Please, turn around," she said agitatedly. "I -- I can fix myself in a public toilet."

"You need to change your clothes as well." There was a lace of distaste in the sharp glance that he threw her way. "You smell like a cheap bar girl."

Audrie bit her tongue when shame overcame her again. Sean would never let her forget how immoral she behaved last night. Every time they see each other, he would torment her with hurting words. For just a few moments of indiscretion, she would suffer and be punished for as long as she lived!

"Do I have to carry you?" Sean's sarcastic words broke into Audrie's deep thoughts.

"Huh! No -- No, of course not." Audrie fumbled for the door's knob clumsily. A muscular arm shot across her front to open the door for her. "Thank you." She flinched away when she felt the warmth of his body. Her first instinct was to lean towards him and to experience his embrace once again. She hid her burning face as she scrambled to get off the car. She'd die if Sean could read her mind.

"Follow me," Sean muttered tersely, striding towards a white-washed townhouse with hanging orchids along the short pathway.

Blindly, she followed his footsteps.

"Can you manage in fifteen minutes?" He pulled out a bunch of shiny keys from his pocket.

She just nodded. The desire to learn more about the man who owns her heart overcame her awkwardness. She couldn't stop her eyes from looking around the plush interior of the modern-styled living room. She was not an art enthusiast but she could tell a fine painting with an exorbitant price tag even from a distance. Sean's mother is an avid antique collector. Leila Talbot's painting collection is also well-known.

"You'll find whatever you need in here. The bathroom's at the left side," Sean said in a clipped tone, as he pushed open a door. Before Audrie could speak, he was already gone.

Sighing, she cautiously entered the bedroom. She averted her eyes to avoid looking at the king-sized bed but the large painting beside it caught her attention. It was a life-sized portrait of her sister. Audrie froze as she stared at Anne's beautiful face and lovely body. Looking like a pagan goddess in white transparent gown, Anne could captivate any man effortlessly. 'Sean is yours. I know that, Anne,' she whispered to herself before turning away to go the bathroom.

Seeing Anne's portrait was like a douse of ice water on Audrie's soul. She felt cold but strangely calm. Her mind became suddenly blank. She moved automatically: washing her hands and face, combing her long hair and tying it with a handkerchief, and straightening her rumpled clothes. She still looked mildly disheveled but more like her old self. The bathroom has an adjoining walk-in closet with a glass door. From where she was standing, Audrie recognized some of Anne's clothes hanging inside. There were also shoes and other personal things. Audrie realized that Sean expected her to borrow some of Anne's things to 'fix' her appearance.

Audrie shook her head as she tidied the bathroom sink and counter. Wearing Anne's purple dress last night had given her the worst experience she'd ever had. There's no way she'd repeat that mistake again!

Sean was standing by one of the tall windows of the elegant living room, holding a glass of whisky in one hand, when Audrie saw him.

"I'm ready to go," she said quietly. The calmness she found while looking at Anne's portrait seemed long-lasting because she was able to look at Sean's face without flinching.

Sean looked at her appearance but did not make any comment. "Sit down."

"No. I'd like to go home."

He ignored her and sat down on one of the couches scattered around. He laid his head against the plump backrest as though feeling very tired.

"I'll just take a taxi."

"The door's locked," Sean said without moving. "Will you come over here or do you want me to fetch you?" It was a threat even when uttered without emotion.

Audrie had no choice but to obey so she chose to sit on the farthest chair from him. Sean's eyes were closed so she let herself stare at him. A peculiarly serene silence reigned for several minutes. For the first time since last night, the air that surrounded them was not charged with electrifying tension and animosity. Anne's presence in the townhouse must have acted like a sedative to both of them. Audrie shook her head. Anytime soon, she'd be returned inside the vortex of fiery emotions she felt only for Sean -- and she must fight them even when she burns.

"Anne and I used to come here every weekend." Sean suddenly broke the strangely peaceful silence. His eyes were now open but seemed sightless as he stared at the intricate moulding designs on the ceiling. "We're happy whenever we're together. She hates cooking because she doesn't like eating much. She believes that cooked food will just destroy her lovely figure so she eats only fresh salads. Surely you know that. She's your sister."

Audrie nodded. She wanted to hear more even when she's starting to feel pain again.

Sean didn't see her nod but continued on talking. "Anne was ecstatic when she got the New York project. It was a dream come true. I asked her to marry me before she went but she declined. She said she didn't want to be unfair. She wanted to be a full-time wife when we married so she must finish her project first." Sean laughed briefly, as though laughing at his own foolishness. There was an underlying bitterness in his tone when he resumed. "That was two years ago. Every time her contract ends, I offer my marriage proposal. And she always asked me to wait."

Audrie was dying to ask how did he persuade Anne to accept his proposal this time but she remained silent. Sean seemed talking to himself only.

"I'm planning to run for re-election and I need a wife by my side. The novelty of having a bachelor mayor has worn off. The people of Love City wanted to see a leader with a stable family life." He laughed again but still without amusement. "So I put the heat on Anne for about one month; then gave her an ultimatum. It was the most unromantic proposal and Anne doesn't deserve it -- but I am getting desperate. I'm afraid her career might destroy her love for me so I wanted to put my stake on her. I can't let her go. Since we were kids, I dreamed of marrying her someday..."

Audrie's heart went out to him. She could feel his desperation, his sorrow, and his fear of losing his only love.

"Do you think she'll marry me...?"

Audrie did not realize that he's asking a direct question to her until he turned his head and looked straight into her eyes.

"Yes -- Yes, of course, Anne will marry you," she assured him hastily. She went suddenly out of breath as their eyes met so her voice sounded raspy.

"There's no of course about it anymore."

Audrie's lips opened to ask why but something in his eyes made her close her mouth shut. She tried to look away but couldn't. She thought she saw a small tongue of white flame dancing in the air between them. It was transparent but becoming visible because it seemed growing rapidly into a giant ball of fire.

"Ask me why," he whispered huskily. There was a clear challenge in his deep voice.

"No..." Audrie wanted to shout forcefully but all she could manage was a weak whimper.

"I'd still tell you," Sean insisted in a harsh tone. "Anne's career took her away from me... And I -- " He stood up and walked towards her while their eyes remained entwined to each other. "I got changed by our kiss last night."

Audrie gasped because she felt drowning and burning at the same but she had to fight her attraction to Sean even it killed her.

 

 

 

 

 

Love is a Unique Treasure to Keep Forever

After regaining enough strength on her knees, Audrie went up to her bedroom and took a very cold shower. She yanked off the white gauze that covered her ankle. Should she trust a man like Sean who had the presence of mind to create an alibi for both his and hers absence in the party? Wasn’t it a sneaky move? It seemed unfair when her mind was numbed with shock and humiliation. Sean must be an expert with dealing on such awkward encounters. There must always be lots of willing women to get rid of. The thought made her feel jealous so she shook her head at once.

A few minutes later, Audrie was guiding her motorbike outside their gate. She was wearing her old jeans, old shirt, and old jacket. Somehow, the old clothes that were hers alone – and not given by any of her sisters – made her feel like her old self again. Anne’s purple dress should go to wherever it belonged to from the first: charity or thrift store.

By early afternoon, Audrie reached the next town where she worked and where most of her friends reside. Nick, a would-be suitor, was among the people who’d welcome her, especially on a Sunday.

“Hey, everyone! Look who’s here?” Nick was smiling and laughing at the same time as he walked towards Audrie. “I’m glad you could make it this Sunday, pretty lady.” His masculine voice was laced with a warm caress, along with the adoring way he looked at her face.

“You’re a born flatterer, Nick.” Audrie forced herself to speak lightly and to smile widely to everyone. It was not so hard to pretend because the favorite Sunday hang-out of Nick’s crowd was in a pub, where loud music and laughter mingled with crunchy foods and bottomless beer.

Audrie was served a platter of mixed nuts and a mug of foamy beer. She pretended to sip the bitter and ice-cold liquid, giggled when foam created a white moustache on her upper lip, and talked about nonsense with Nick and company. Several hours later, one of Nick’s muscular arms was around her shoulders and he was sitting very close beside her. Some of her female friends were looking oddly at them because she had never let Nick get this close to her in the past. Audrie was known as a reserved individual so the sudden display of public affection was a bit of a surprise.

“Let’s go somewhere private, darling,” Nick whispered to her right ear.

“Some other time, perhaps,” Audrie declined but she didn’t move away from him.

“Stay with me tonight, sweetie.” Nick became bolder and planted a kiss on the dainty curve of her earlobe.

She didn’t like the wet sensation and the smell of stale beer in his breath; but she still remained unmoving. What’s happening to her? Her conscious mind knew that she should go to discourage Nick but there was no order to move from her brain. Was she deliberately leading herself to harm as self-punishment?

The thought was like a splash of cold water on her face. ‘No!’ she screamed inside her head. A mistake could never be corrected by committing another mistake.

“I’m sorry, Nick, I can’t. I have to go home now. We have work tomorrow.” Audrie stood up suddenly. She did not swallow a lot of beer so she could still move agilely. Nick did not have a chance to go after her as she walked towards the exit quickly. She’d pay her share tomorrow but for now, she really had to go away from here.

‘Poor Nick! I’m really sorry I almost used you,’ she whispered to herself as she donned the black helmet. She was so deep in thought she didn’t notice the approaching policeman.

“Good evening, ma’am.”

“Good evening, officer.” Audrie pulled off her helmet again.

“May I see your driver’s license, ma’am?”

“Why? What’s my violation?”
“None yet… but I noticed that you just got out of that pub and it seemed you’re planning to drive this thing even when you’re drunk—“

“I’m not drunk,” Audrie cut in quickly, almost defensively. “I’d walk the straight line test to prove it.”

“That would be fine. Please, walk over this line, ma’am.” The police officer pointed at one of the neon lines painted on the sidewalk.

Audrie passed the test without any effort. “Can I go now?”

“Yes, ma’am. Thank you for the cooperation.”

But before Audrie could mount on her motorbike, Nick was coming out of the pub’s door. He looked very drunk and very disappointed.

“Hey, Audrie! Wait for me! You can’t just leave me here!”

“Do you know this man, ma’am?”

“Yes, he’s a friend – and I can handle him. Thank you, officer.” Audrie tried to dismiss the policeman politely before Nick could reach them.

“OK. Good evening and take care, ma’am.”

Audrie waited for Nick with her helmet tucked under her arm. “I’ll call a taxi for you, Nick,” she offered.

“No! I’m going with you.”

“I’m going home to get some sleep. And so should you.”

“Take me home with you, honey.”

“Nick, you’re drunk—“

Nick lurched as he stepped towards her. He was taller by three or more inches and Audrie just managed to remain standing while trying to support his heavy weight. Nick instantly embraced her tightly while burying his mouth against her neck. He kept on murmuring slurred words even while she’s fighting to keep them from falling on the concrete sidewalk.

“Are you sure he’s not your boyfriend, ma’am?”

“No, he’s not!” Audrie snapped a sharp reply due to irritation and embarrassment.

“Do you need our assistance?” The policeman sounded smug and he seemed smirking behind his poker-faced expression.
Audrie didn’t care anymore. She wanted to get away from Nick at once. “Please, help me, officer,” she was breathing hard from exertion. Nick seemed fallen asleep and had gone heavier.

As though coming from a genie bottle, two policemen suddenly appeared beside the secretly smirking one and assisted on plucking off Nick from Audrie, or vice versa. Audrie was a complete prisoner of his drunken embrace. She was disheveled by the time Nick was safely lying on the backseat of the police car. He was snoring loudly.

“Thank you very much, officers.” Audrie shook hands with the three policemen. She didn’t ask where they usually deliver arrested drunkards but she’s sure Nick was safer in the police station rather than in his own flat.

‘I’ll never come here again.’ Audrie promised herself while trying to comb her rumpled hair with her shaking fingers. ‘No more looking for distractions! You have to learn how to fight the fatal attraction for Sean by yourself!’

She was so busy reprimanding herself she didn’t notice the black sleek car that parked smoothly beside her motorbike.

“Get in.”

Audrie almost jumped out of her skin when she heard Sean’s deep voice right behind her.

“What—“

“I said, get inside the car,” Sean repeated his order in a clipped tone. His dark eyes were blazing and seemed ready to explode.

Audrie fought the melting sensation that only Sean could create inside her body by bristling and pretending to be angry.

“You have no right to order me around,” Audrie retorted rudely.

“Then stop acting like an irresponsible teenager!” Sean hauled her whole body and deposited her on the passenger seat without any warning. Audrie could only squeal in shock.

“How dare you! Let me get out of here!”

Sean ignored her. He sat behind the wheel and calmly punched numbers on his cellphone. “No worries now, Ron. I already found her.”

Audrie turned to a statue after hearing her father’s name. “That was Dad?” she asked in a confused tone.

“We’re all looking for you all over the place since your parents discovered you’re missing once again,” Sean informed her sternly. “Next time you disappear, try leaving a note to your family.”

“But I always leave a note…” Audrie voice petered out when she realized that she had forgotten to leave the usual note on the kitchen message board. “I’m sorry I got them worried. I didn’t mean it…”

There was a short and tensed silence. “We’re going to my townhouse first. You must fix yourself before I’ll take you home," Sean stated flatly.

Audrie was so repentant she obeyed Sean’s command without any protest.
 

 

 

Living with a Shamed and Broken Heart

The next morning was bright and chirpy. For Audrie, managing to fall asleep that night was a small miracle. She woke up feeling disoriented. If she didn’t see the purple dress hanging forlornly on the back of a chair, she could convince herself that nothing disastrous had happened to herself last night.

“Audrie, are you awake?” Her mother’s voice sounded muffled as she knocked on the door slowly.

“Yes, Mom. Come in, please.” Audrie pulled the bed sheet up to her neck as though it could shield her from an interrogation.

“How’s your ankle?” Marie Jacobs sat on one side of the bed.

“Ankle?”

“Sean said you hurt your ankle last night. Was it bad?”

“I—“

“Let me see.” Her mother lifted the lower part of the bed sheet and peered at Audrie’s feet.

Audrie was confused when she saw her right ankle wrapped in white gauze. She couldn’t remember hurting her ankle last night. It was an alibi concocted by Sean’s quick thinking.
“Hmm, it’s not swelling anymore. Thanks to Sean’s first aid. Can you get down for breakfast?”

“I—I’m not sure,” Audrie stuttered, still confused.

“It’s a Sunday so you can stay in bed all day. I, Aimee, and your father will be going to church. Go to sleep again, sweetie.” Her mother kissed her forehead before straightening. “I just want to make sure that your ankle’s alright now.”

“Thank you, Mom.” Audrie felt guiltier than ever because her mother had no clue about her shameless behavior last night. She also noted the absence of Anne’s name, indicating that her eldest sister had left for New York as planned.

“Bye, see you later.” Marie smiled at her youngest daughter before closing the door.

Audrie hopped off the bed to peer outside the window. Safely hidden behind the folds of the white lacy curtains, she watched her parents’ car disappear into the distance. She’s home alone now so she could breathe easily.

Wearing a thin bathrobe, Audrie went down to the kitchen. Her mouth and throat were parched dry. She just wanted to drink some water. After a cold shower, she’d drive to town to find more distractions. For her peace of mind, she must forget Sean’s kiss as fast as she could.

She was putting back the water jug inside the refrigerator when the doorbell rung. She padded towards the front door on bare feet. Visitors of her parents often drop by during weekends so she did not bother using the peephole. When she saw Sean standing outside, she tried closing the door again. Her face paled and her hands both shook at once.

“Wait!” Sean held the doorknob and pushed open the door until he could come inside.

“They—They’re not here,” she stammered while looking at the marbled floor. “Please come back later.”

“I want to see you.”

Surprised, she made the mistake of looking up at him. She was instantly caught by his magnetic eyes. The dark depths were like whirlpools where anyone could drown.

And if it was still possible, Audrie went paler. Her body swayed like a fragile tree being swept off by a strong gust of wind.

“Don’t you dare faint on me again, woman!” Sean growled under his breath as he moved in lightning speed to stop her from falling on the hard floor. “We have to talk.”

“No…” Audrie stepped back while trying to push him away. He was getting too close for comfort. “There’s—There’s nothing we can talk about.”

“I’m going to marry your sister.”

Audrie winced. “I know!” she gasped because the statement created so much pain.

“I will be your brother-in-law.”

Audrie couldn’t speak anymore so she just nodded her head. She tried to look away but her eyes remained impaled by his thunderous stare. His frequent and hot glances at her mouth always made her heart jump and skip.

“You will be my sister-in-law… and yet…” His speech was becoming slurred as he slowly moved towards her.

“Stop—“ Audrie croaked weakly as she shook her head. Her sweating palms faced him, begging him to stop. “Don’t— Please!“

The husky plea that left her trembling lips stopped him on his tracks. He shook his head as though waking up from a bad dream. “No, this is insane,” he uttered to himself. “I’ll go now.” He turned towards the front door without looking at her again. He looked as confused as she felt earlier this morning.

Audrie crumpled on the nearby couch after Sean slammed shut the door. The sharp noise echoed around the living room but her ears were listening to his words that her mind repeated over and over again.

‘Brother-in-law, sister-in-law, marry Anne, Sean and Anne, Anne and Sean…’ She must always chant these words to herself for protection. She must never forget that her attraction for Sean was forbidden and must never be exposed ever again. A repeat performance of her shameful behavior last night would destroy her self-respect completely.
 

 

An Unforgettable Mistake of Passion

The kiss went on and on. Audrie was breathless and could easily stop breathing but she still wished the kiss to go on forever. Darkness was starting to conquer her consciousness but she would be happy to die within Sean’s arms. Of course, the reality will soon set in but she’d rather continue dreaming. For the first time in her life, Audrie felt careless and reckless. Indeed, love has an adverse effect on her. It could transform her personality – from shy to uninhibited creature. It was only then that she realized she’s kissing Sean, too. All the pent-up love that she’d been hiding these past several years had found a way out. Her passion was like boiling lava shooting from an underground volcano. No one suspected how strong and how forceful the explosion would be. It was mind-blowing and she had no option but respond hotly.

“Anne! Anne!” Marie Jacobs’ shrill and angry voice destroyed the magical moments.

“Your Mom’s looking for you,” Sean murmured huskily. His mouth freed her lips to plant caressing kisses on her cheek, jaw, and neck. His warm hands roamed the bare skin of her back.

“I’m here, Mom! You don’t have to shout!”

Sean stiffened after hearing Anne’s voice. “What the—“ He pushed Audrie away and peered at her pale face. “You’re not Anne!” he hissed furiously.

The balmy night air suddenly turned cold when his warm embrace was withdrawn. Audrie felt frozen to her soul. She began shaking at once; maybe in shock but more in shame. Her arms wrapped around her trembling body, as though shielding her from harm. Her knees could not support her so she leaned against a nearby stone pillar.

“Where’s Audrie?”

“I don’t know. Did you send her to find me?”

“Yes. And it seems she failed. Did you hide from her?”

“Of course not!”

“Audrie! Audrie!

“Stop shouting, Mom. We’re not in our own place. Maybe, she’s already inside.”

“I didn’t see her there.”

“Maybe she got in while you’re getting out. C’mon. Let’s go inside. It’s cold out here.”

“Did you cancel your flight tonight?”

“No.”

“I told you not to go. Anne, don’t be so stubborn.”

“You are the one who’s being stubborn, Mom. This is my life and my career. Please do not interfere.”

The two women had rounded the corner towards the entrance of the house so their voices had wafted to the opposite direction.

“Why don’t you go after them?” Sean asked coldly. “Are you expecting me to apologize? You should have fought me instead of responding like some little tramp.”

His sarcastic words were like daggers that cut deep into her heart. The pain was so excruciating. Audrie gasped for air before losing consciousness. She wanted to die. Sean was right. She behaved like a wanton and she just wanted to disappear on the face of earth.

She was coughing when she opened her eyes again. She was half-lying, half-sitting on a soft chair. A golden lampshade was glowing on a corner table and Sean was sitting behind it. His strongly-etched features looking sinister as he stared at her. She tried to move away from him but his fingers imprisoned her chin and cheek.

“Drink some more. You look very pale.” He pressed the glass he’s holding on her lips.

Her nose wrinkled at the smell of whisky. “I don’t drink,” Audrie croaked. “Please let go.” She tried shaking her head but was still feeling too weak.

“Are you alright now?” Sean stood up suddenly and moved away as though he couldn’t stand being near to someone like her.

“Yes.” Audrie hung her head to hide her face. She could never look at this man in the eye ever again. “I want to go home,” she whispered hoarsely.

“Yes. You can use the side door. Follow me.” Sean opened the door of what seemed a study room. Large and hardbound books lined the several rows of wooden shelves covering an entire wall. “Can you walk?”

“Yes…” Her legs were still wobbly but her desire to get away from Sean as soon as she could gave her enough strength to move. “No—“ She flinched away from his hand offering some support.

“Move faster,” he muttered brusquely. “Someone might find us here.”

“Then leave me now,” she said quickly. “I can manage.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes…” She heaved a deep sigh. Breathing the same air with him was sheer torture. She wanted him to go away or she might faint again. “Please… just go…” She pleaded because she could still feel him looking at her.

“The only excuse I have is that purple dress. Is that Anne’s?”

Audrie just nodded. Her throat was already closed.

“You have the same height, the same dress… and you responded to me like a long-lost lover…” Sean talked in a matter-of-fact tone. He had already regained his self-control. “But you knew I thought you’re Anne,” he added accusingly.

“I’m sorry…” Audrie whispered weakly. “Let’s forget about it, please...”

“That’s the wisest thing to do.” He paused as though feeling unsure. “I think it’s best for you to stay. Your parents might get worried for you.”

“No,” Audrie almost screamed. “They—They will understand,” she added tremulously. “This—This party is an important occasion.”

A number of seconds ticked by heavily before Sean spoke again. “The side door is actually a sliding glass door to your right when you go out of this room. It leads to the rose garden where a small service gate is located.”

Audrie did not reply anymore. She knew the rose garden very well because it was beside the screened basketball court where Sean plays ball for a couple of hours every weekend morning. But after this bitter and unforgettable mistake, she could never watch Sean again even from afar.
 

 

 

A Fiery Kiss That Scorched the Heart

For the first time, Audrie was the last one to get downstairs. In the past, whenever the Jacobs Family dines out, Audrie was always the one who got the car out of the garage because everyone's still dressing up. But she was wearing her usual attire then: jeans and blouse shirt. Tonight, since she's wearing the purple dres, she should also have some make-up on. Her fingers shook and she couldn't apply lipsticks properly. In the end, she just wiped off any color from her lips. She rubbed repeatedly until her lips went red and slightly puffed.

"Audrie? Gal, what are you doing up there? We're all down here!" Her father's voice sounded muffled from downstairs because the bathroom door was closed.

"Audrie, let's go!" Aimee knocked loudly on the bedroom's door. "Aren't you ready yet?"

"I'm ready!" Audrie shouted back. She shook her head disgustedly because she couldn't control the tremor in her voice. She rubbed her sweaty palms against the sides of dress's tight skirt. It seemed she grew at least 3 inches since the last time she wore the dress because the hem just covered her thighs!

"Mom and Dad are getting impatient --" Aimee stopped talking when Audrie opened the bathroom's door. "Wow! You got great legs, Audrie!"

"Should I wear tights?" She asked uncertainly, not taking the compliment seriously. To her eyes, her legs are overly long and overly slim. Just like a pair of chopsticks.

"No need! Your skin's perfect! What kind of shaver do you use?" Aimee seemed genuinely awed as she walked around Audrie. "Or you're having them waxed?"

"No shaver," Audrie replied timidly. "I just have no hair," she added, feeling abnormal.

"No hair? Not even in the underarm or..."

"Girls! Come down here! We'll be late!" Their mother's voice echoed from below.

"Yes, Mom!" Audrie snatched the clutch bag on the dressing table. It comes with the dress and made from purple leather. "Let's go, Aimee. Race you!"

The wooden planks of the stairway squeaked as two girls raced down. They were both breathing hard as they reached the front door at the same time.

"Goodness! Get inside the car. We only have 10 minutes!" Marie squealed as she saw the two daughters.

"Where's Anne?" Aimee asked when she saw the vacant backseat.

"She's on the phone, talking with her agent," Marie replied irritably. "That agent is a slave driver!"

"He's just concerned with Anne's career, Mom," Aimee reasoned quickly. "Sit beside me, Audrie."

Audrie complied dutifully. Her left hand pulled at the skirt's hem automatically. The darned skirt got even shorter and exposed more skin.

"I'll call Anne." Marie shut the car's door forcefully before marching towards the far end of the dimly lit garden.

Anne and Mom appeared after several seconds. Both were oddly silent and seemed tense. Anne yanked open the backseat door and sat beside Audrie with a hard bounce. She closed the door with more force than needed.

"Thank God, we're all here!" Ron exclaimed as he opened the passenger door for his wife.

"Is there any problem, Anne?" Aimee whispered curiously.

"Mom wants me to quit my job," Anne whispered back in a sullen tone. Her lovely eyes were flashing as she talked.

"But why?"

"Just because I'm getting married!"

"What does Sean say?"

Audrie remained silent and waited with bated breath for the answer. She hoped that Sean would also want Anne to stay.

"We haven't discussed about my career yet. But I'm sure, he won't be a killjoy." Anne threw an irritable glance at the back of their mother's head.

"You just have to explain your side to Mom. I'm sure she'll understand the importance of your career," Aimee said.

"Will you help me explain?" Anne asked hopefully.

"Sure!"

It never entered Audrie's mind to speak even though she's sandwiched between her elder sisters. She's quite accustomed to being treated as invisible. Anne and Aimee were always closer to each other because they have the same personalities and they seemed to think alike. Audrie was always treated more like a favorite cousin than the youngest sister. Fortunately, Audrie has no jealous or competitive bones in her body. She never liked being the center of attraction. She prefers to stay on the background. And more importantly, she idolized her beautiful sisters. She loved watching them walking on the catwalk and being the darlings of any crowd.

The drive to the Talbot Residence took only 6 minutes. The tall gate was already opened, obviously waiting for their arrival. As the car was stopping in the middle of the circular driveway, Anne's cellphone rang shrilly.

"I have to take this call," she announced firmly, looking defiant at their mother.

"You're old enough to know what's wrong and what's right," Marie Jacobs replied stiffly before getting out of the car with a huff.

Aimee's eyebrows disappeared beneath her fashionable bangs as she caught the meaning behind their mother's loaded reply. "She knew you're leaving for New York tonight!" She squeaked a whisper to Anne.

"Yes. She heard me telling Jon about my nine o'clock flight tonight."

Audrie was still sandwiched between her sisters so she couldn't help but listen to every word they utter. She almost said aloud: 'Don't go, Anne! Please, don't leave Sean alone!'

"No wonder, Mom's so mad at you," Aimee said in a worried tone. "Does Sean know you're leaving tonight?"

"Not yet."

"You have to beat Mom from telling him first."

"Yes," Anne agreed. "But I really have to take this call first," she added as her cellphone rang again.

"Ok, I'll distract Mom," Aimee offered.

"Please do that." Anne sounded distracted already. She punched a button on her cellphone as she got out of the car. Aimee opened the other door and got out, too.

Audrie felt relieved when she was left alone. She couldn't breathe with so much tension.

"Audrie?" Her father called her. "Let's go inside."

"Yes, Dad," she answered quickly. "I can't find my hanky. Please go ahead. I'll be right behind you." Her voice was husky and shaky but her father did not notice anything amiss. He was busy unloading the ice cooler where the salad bowls were packed.

Feeling like a malfunctioning robot, Audrie forced her heavy limbs to move. She had to get out of the car while her father was still looking. Her heart was beating fast like a sonic train. She quickly gulped gallons of the cool night air; but it worked like a speed drug. Instead of getting calmed down, her whole body started tingling. It was as if something was stopping her from coming inside the Talbot Residence...

"Don't lock the car, Audrie," her father instructed before joining her mother and Aimee.

"Please, fetch Anne, Audrie." Her mother ordered suddenly. Her voice seemed laced with muted urgency.

"Yes, Mom," she replied obediently, grateful for the extra time to be alone. She needed to gather all her wits to survive the next few hours of torment.

Almost blindly, Audrie headed towards a row of flowering plants. Anne's soft voice was wafting from behind the fragrant blooms so she walked on that direction; but she just plan to call out her sister's name and go away.

The Talbot garden was larger than theirs but also dimly lit with only a few lights switched on. She was watching her steps closely so she did not notice a tall silhouette that suddenly separated from the shadows. A pair of warm hands grabbed at her cold and naked arms. Audrie gasped as she was turned around in one fluid motion. Her body was imprisoned in a tight embrace while a masculine voice huskily whispered in her ears: "I missed you, sweetheart!"

Before Audrie could say anything, a hot mouth kissed her vulnerable lips. The burning heat of that kiss seared her soul and scorched her heart. She didn't see the man kissing her but she knew his voice. Since she was a teenager discovering her first crush, Audrie had always dreamed of kissing Sean Talbot. And now that he's become her first kiss, she couldn't help but record every nuance of the different sensations that his kiss and embrace created -- even when she's also turning into a slave...

 

 

 

How to Kill an Unrequited Love
The plan for the dinner party got worse. The first biggest event in the Jacobs Family, Anne's engagement to Love City's bachelor mayor, will be celebrated on this coming Saturday. This time, the Talbot Family will be the host and the venue will be in Sean's solid but elegant home. Everybody was ecstatic, except Audrie. She kept all her misgivings a secret. She also wished to get ill so that she could escape the Saturday ordeal.

But Audrie did not get sick until weekend came. She's so disgusted because her slim body is so goddamned healthy. It rained almost everyday and she deliberately got herself wet while driving her motorbike along the highways of Love City. Did she get cold? No. Nothing, not even a tiny sneeze!

"Hey, little sis. Why the dark scowl? No dress to wear?" Aimee asked teasingly, her beautiful heart-shaped face sandwiched between the door and the jamb.

Audrie shrugged. "I still have Anne's purple dress in my closet."

"What? But that's so old! I'll bring some new stuff here."

"No--wait?" Audrie tried to stop her elder sister but she's gone.

A few minutes later, Aimee returned with a big luggage. "Here are the latest fashion in Paris, Audee," she announced smugly, using Audrie's childhood nickname affectionately while pulling out a shiny scrap of fabric. It was heavily perfumed.

Audrie sighed and tried to look expectant. She has never been interested in anything that smells or looks fashionable. Her clothes are all comfortable and, well, somewhat rebellious. Her jeans have scruffy hems and her shirts are loose-fitting. Footwears are flipflops or sneakers.

"Wear this one, my dear. You'll look sexy." Aimee held both straps and waved the slinky dress in front of Audrie.

"No. I won't look anything but ridiculous in that dress." Audrie shook her head. "Anne's purple dress is perfect for me," she added firmly.

"You'd look old and dowdy!" Aimee squealed.

"I will look myself," Audrie insisted.

"You're so old-fashioned," Aimee complained. "OK, I'll do your hair and make-up."

"No again. I can manage, Aimee."

"Do you have lipsticks?"

"Yes, and some facial powder." Audrie pulled the luggage bag off her bed and put it just outside her bedroom's door. "Don't worry about me."

"What about high-heeled shoes?" Aimee refused to get defeated.

"I prefer my black flat shoes."

"Black shoes with purple dress?" Aimee squealed again. She looked so scandalized with the thought.

"No one will notice my feet. The purple dress has a very long skirt, remember?"

"Oh, OK."

"Now, get back to your room and get dressed. Mom and Dad will be annoyed if anyone's late."

"Oh, OK." Aimee still looked reluctant to leave.

Audrie sighed after closing the door. If she could just go out of their house and ride her motorbike to get away from here... But she knew she'd hate her self more if she caused pain and embarrassment to her family.

"Martyr Audrie," she whispered a sneer to her reflection in the mirror.

"Audrie? Are you dressed?" Marie Jacobs spoke loudly while knocking rapidly.

"Not yet, Mom," Audrie replied as she opened the door. "Why?"

"Can you help me with the salad? I haven't taken a bath yet."

"Sure. I'll take over, Mom. Relax and get dressed."

"Oh, thank you. You're such a dear!" Her mom kissed her on one cheek. "Hmm, you smell clean. Just got out of the bath?" The older woman glanced at the still wet hair.

"Just a shower." Audrie smiled. A kiss from her mom and a pat on the head from her dad always make her smile. No wonder she's got no heart to hurt her parents.

The only way she could live with Sean as her brother-in-law is to get rid of her old infatuation with him.

Audrie went down to the kitchen and finished the elaborate salad preparation. She looked like a scruffy tomboy but she could cook like an angel. However, no one outside her family knows this secret talent of hers because she prefers to hide it. And since she's always in the background, her family conveniently forget to mention about this to anyone.

'Kill your love, kill your love, kill your love...' Audrie chanted to herself as she tossed the crispy lettuce scraps with olive oil.

"Still undressed, kiddo?" Anne, looking like a queen in her elegant evening dress, walked gracefully towards the kitchen table. "That salad looks delightful. Leave it, I'll take over from here. Go to your room and get dressed."

"No. Don't touch anything here. You might get dirty."

"Anne?" Ron Jacobs called out from the living room.

"I'm in the kitchen, Dad." Anne replied quickly.

"Come here. I have something to show you."

"I'll be there." Anne threw Audrie a stern look. "Cover that salad bowl and run upstairs, kiddo. I have to catch a midnight flight so we can't be late tonight."

"You're going back to New York right after the party? But--"

"My work is also important to me, Audrie," Anne cut in. "I have to go to Dad. Be ready at exactly 6:30. And tell that to Aimee."

"Yes, Anne." Audrie moved fast and did not dare think about the new information. Everyone expected Anne to stop working and just stay at home while waiting for the wedding day.

'You have to kill your love soon, Audrie! Very soon!' It should be easy killing the love in her heart because it is unrequited. To Sean, Audrie is invisible. But she's still feeling panicky. Sean with Anne would be painful to her; but Sean without Anne could be very, very dangerous...

 

 

 

 

The Moment Her Heart Died
“Hello, Mom!” Audrie greeted cheerfully as kissed her mother’s cheek before sitting on her dining chair. “Where’s Dad?” She didn’t ask for her two sisters because Anne and Aimee are both late risers. They usually get out of bed at around eleven o’clock on weekdays. During weekends, they sometimes show up at three or five in the afternoon. Both girls work as models so their waking hours are different from Audrie’s.

“He’s on the phone talking to Sean.”

She thanked all her lucky stars because her mother was not looking at her when she dropped the slice of loaf bread. ‘Stop trembling!’ Audrie whispered inside her mind. She gathered her insanity hastily but did not dare ask why her father and Sean were talking on the phone.

“Sean wants to marry your sister Anne,” her mother continued excitedly.

“Oh…” Audrie gasped shakily. To hide her shocked expression, she opened the door of the refrigerator and pretended to look for something inside.

“The butter and the fresh milk is already here, Audrie. What else do you need?”

“Uh, m-marmalade?” Audrie bit her lower lip to stop its trembling.

“We ran out of marmalade yesterday, child. Thank you for reminding me. I’d better include it to my grocery list now.” Her mother bustled out of the kitchen to get the small notebook and pen that is exclusively used for listing down all household needs and important family appointments.

Audrie thanked her lucky stars again. Someone up there must be looking kindly at her just now. No one had witnessed the devastation that she’s feeling because her heart is dying.

Golden rays of hot sunlight were spread on the shiny surface of the wooden dining table and against Audrie’s back because her chair is located near the window. She should be feeling warm but her insides remained frozen.

So this is how it feels when the heart is dead…

“Hello, Audrie,” her father smiled as he sits down on his chair. “Where’s Mommy?”

At 58, Ron Jacobs managed to stay slim. Audrie got her slender almost shapeless form from him—plus her tall height. Her sisters are also tall, but she’s the tallest. Her mother, Marie Jacobs, is a petite woman who also looks younger than her 55 years of age despite the ample hips that developed after three pregnancies.

“Hi, Dad.” Audrie forced her knees to stand up so that she could greet her father with the customary kiss on the cheek. “Mom is—”

“Oh, there you are now, Dad,” her mother cut in as she bustled back into the kitchen. “Your coffee’s still hot.”

“Thanks, Mommy.” Daddy beamed.

Audrie pretended to sip her orange juice so she could continue recovering her lost equilibrium.

“So, when’s the wedding, Daddy?” Mommy asked eagerly.

“It will depend on our Anne’s work schedule, of course,” Daddy replied slowly, as though something was troubling him. “Sean knows about the 2-year modeling contract that Anne recently accepted.” He shrugged before sipping his coffee. “They have to find a date where they can squeeze the wedding day.”

“Oh, that’s too bad!” Mommy exclaimed. “I told Anne to reject that offer but she won’t listen.”

“Mommy, our children are all grown-up now,” Daddy reasoned out softly. “We have to respect their decisions.”

“Yeah, I know, I know.” Mommy shook her head as she agreed. “Will there be an engagement party?”

“I don’t know. But I invited Sean and his family to have dinner with us. He accepted.” Ron Jacobs smiled smugly.

“What?! Here!?”

Audrie secretly echoed her mother’s scandalized reaction. Visions of small children running around the house flashed in front of her eyes as though she’s watching an old film; but it’s the future that she’s seeing.

‘I really must kill this crazy love for Sean!’ she screamed inside her head.

“Don’t worry, Mommy. I already made a reservation in our favorite restaurant.”

“When?” Mommy refused to relax.

“Tomorrow night.”

‘Sunday night,’ Audrie gulped her juice in silence. She didn’t dare talk because her parents would start noticing her. Their distraction to Anne’s future engagement with Sean is manna from heaven for her.

“But—but—” Mommy opened the small notebook. “Anne will be flying to New York tomorrow morning! She has a fashion show on Monday evening.”

“Oh, my!” Ron Jacobs stood up and fished out the phone from his pant’s pocket. “I’ll call Sean.”

“Call the restaurant, too,” Marie reminded as she followed her husband.

“Yup. I don’t want to pay a fine.”

“You should’ve asked me.”

“Yes, of course. Sorry about that.”

Like a wilting flower, Audrie slowly slumped on her chair when her parents were out of sight. What should she do? She sighed miserably. Can she skip the dinner party? Maybe, but she should have a very good and very valid reason.

Getting bedridden with illness is the only thing she could think of. Why not? Audrie perked up a bit because the wild idea sounds good. But how...?

 

Lady Romantica explains: The place where Audrie and Sean live is in the suburbs of Love City. It is the capital city of the State of Romance, Republic of Nowhere. Their love story starts unfolding now…

Discover a Young Girl’s Secret Crush
Long fingers of golden light are slowly tearing the darkness of the night into shreds to herald the start of a new day. When the hour struck 6:00, the alarm went off. Its shrill rings reverberated inside the room and inside Audrie’s head as well. Her eyes opened up instantly. She loves mornings so she doesn’t mind getting up from bed even when the sun is not yet completely out.

“Good morning!” Audrie chirped to her reflection while combing her long and curly hair. She disliked the black waves but couldn’t do anything but let them grow beyond her waist.

The last time she had her hair cut very short was a disaster. She looked like a mushroom! The short tresses curled up and puffed up like a thick halo around her head. She didn’t repeat that mistake again. Instead, she just ties her unruly hair into a bun or a French braid when at work. And when at home, she hides her hair beneath a cap or just pony-tailed it.

Audrie ran to the window when she heard sounds of a car passing by. This has been her morning ritual ever since she transferred to this room as a teenager. No one wanted to sleep in the bedroom because it is located in the front part of their two-story house; and therefore looking out to the streets. Various noises from passers-by are often heard throughout the night.

Amidst the blares of other vehicles and human voices, Audrie could still tell when a particular car is passing by her window. It’s not the car that she likes to see though. It’s the owner. Hiding behind the thin laces of the curtain, her eyes sought the face of her secret crush.

“Hi, Sean,” she whispered to herself while letting her eyes feast on the handsome features of the man who lives next door. She’s free to look only when no one is around.

Sean Talbot is every girl’s crush and every woman’s dream husband in their town. Why not? He is a hunk—very tall, well-muscled, and very eligible. He is topless whenever playing basketball inside his front yard. During these times, most of the female population will suddenly get concentrated in this part of their town. No red-blooded woman could ignore the masculine allure of wide shoulders and muscular chest.

But these are not the qualities that she liked the most. Sean is a gentleman. He is well-mannered and intelligent. That’s why he became the youngest mayor in the history of their small town. He studied law and public governance at the nearby university, located in Love City, which is just about an hour or two away. The distance largely depends on what kind of vehicle you drive. She drives a second-hand motorbike so the travel is just around 30 to 45 minutes.

Sean chose to drive there everyday as a student so Audrie did not have a respite from seeing him. Maybe, if he opted to stay in the city then she could have outgrown her teenage crush.

“Have a nice day,” she sighed when Sean’s car turned left after honking several times. She walked to the bathroom slowly. Seeing Sean always makes adrenaline rush in her bloodstream. Her heart would beat faster and her head would float like a balloon. The excitement is over and she’s back to her dull self.

“You should forget him, Audrie,” she told herself sternly. “You’re twenty-two now so stop acting like a teenager. Stop hankering over a man, who already belongs to another woman—your own sister!” She stared at her reflection for several moments then shook her head hastily when she started feeling self-pity. “I think you must go out more often. Yes, I will accept Nicky’s dinner invitation for next Friday.” Audrie ran into the shower cubicle before she could change her mind. The decision is already made.

 

White Flame is a story of a self-possessed young woman, who is passionate but still unawakened. Unconsciously, her innocent heart had fallen in love with a man who already belongs to her beautiful sister. Audrie is the ugly duckling of the family so she knows--and accepts--the fact that Sean will never notice her. As expected, the man sees her only as a future sister-in-law and seems uninterested to look beneath the thick eyeglasses. Audrie always tells herself that she's grateful for the lack of attention from the love of her life but it still hurts whenever she watches him smiling at her sister.

Audrie wished that her love is like a weed that she could kill instantly. For so long, she had been pulling at its roots but it kept on sprouting back to life. Just one glance and a casual nod from Sean could make her heart spin and turn her world upside down. Her feelings had begun as a harmless crush for a fascinating creature who lives next door. But after several years of seeing him almost everyday, her whole being is now a slave to an emotion that is so powerful it scares her. This unrequited love had continued to grow even when she kept it buried inside her.

Then suddenly, Sean is looking at her with interest... and attraction...? Audrie is awed but unbelieving. How could a handsome and intelligent man be attracted to a boring and dull girl like her? But this should not be the million dollar question. Instead, she should be asking ‘how can she save herself from more pain?’ She had been fighting this attraction through sheer determination and willpower. It will be a losing battle now that Sean had focused his magnetic personality to her direction.

Audrie vows to resist until she can, but she’s not sure if her strength could last any longer. She knows she’ll get burned once Sean got through the thick shield that she built to protect her vulnerable heart...

White Flame is elusive, innocent, and hot.