Gina Rodriguez

Move- Chapter 18

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 17 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Liam and Aria stand in front of her apartment building as she digs in her purse for her keys.

“I um…I’d invite you up, but-” Aria begins to say as she looks down at her keys, fiddling in her hands.

“But that may not be the best of ideas?” Liam asks smirking.

“No, probably not,” she says smiling.

“You know that’s not all it’s about for me, right? I mean I won’t deny that I want you, but I want to get to know you first. Before anything else escalates between us. I know we can get wrapped up in each other, and lose ourselves. But I will make more of an effort to keep myself in check.”

“Thank you. But I mean, it’s not just you. I know I can be rather forward. And I will work on that too.”

“I must admit I am usually far greater at exercising self-control. But being around you, I find it rather difficult.”

“I um… (clears her throat) I know what you mean,” she says with a flirtatious smile as she looks up at him.

Liam smirks at her as their eyes lock in intensity.

“Screw it,” Aria says pulling him into a kiss as they push through her building door, his hands sliding up and down her figure.

***

Aria and Liam crash into her apartment.

“My bedroom is back this way,” she says pulling him by his collar.

Liam kisses her passionately as he follows her lead, “Aria, love, are you trying to kill me?” he whispers as he lets out a husky laugh against her lips.

“I think it’s safe to say no,” she whispers as she kisses him with more urgency than before, wrapping her arms around his neck as he lifts her legs up around his waist.

“You really think we’re ready for this? I mean we just said-“

“I know what I said, just kiss me,” she says as his lips crash over hers. He walks them into her bedroom.

Liam places her gently on her bed, as she rips open his shirt, stroking his chest.

He leans into a kiss as he cups her face, his other hand slides the zipper of her dress down.

“Aria,” he whispers nervously as his eyes lock onto hers.

“Close the door,” she whispers.

Liam looks at her, he kisses her passionately and then walks over to the door closing it.

***

Aria let’s out a scream as Liam laughs lightly, the two wrapped up in each other’s arms, clothing scattered, but Aria and Liam still in their under garments.

“So you are ticklish, aren’t you love?” Liam says tickling her sides, placing a kiss on her lips as he slides his hands along her body.

“I guess a little,” she says laughing as she kisses him her arms wrapped around his shoulders.

Liam chuckles, deepening their kiss. Flipping them, as his lips work their way down to her neck.

“Liam…” she whispers, her body moving closer to him.

“Hmm?” he whispers against her skin.

“What are we doing?” she asks with a laugh as she looks down at their entangled bodies.

“If it’s not obvious, I’m seriously going to have to rethink my powers of seduction,” he says with a laugh as he kisses her.

“I’m serious? Why are we still wearing clothes, get these off,” she says reaching for the waistline of his boxers.

“Alright! Ok!” he says laughing as he stops her hands.

“What?” she says sadly.

“Aria, I want you. Trust me. I do. I am fighting everything in me right now. You are making it very hard for me to think straight. But I promised you I would.”

“We can change our minds, can’t we?” she says stroking her hands up and down his chest.

“I have to admit your kind of giving me whiplash here. One minute I’m moving too fast for you and distracting you from your dream, then the next you’re trying to take my clothes off. I don’t know what you want from me, love.”

“I’m sorry, I know! Ugh! What is wrong with me?” she says covering her face.

“Nothing,” he says cupping her face as he pouts.

“I just, when we’re alone. I just- I can’t stop thinking about what it would be like to be with you. It’s like logic falls out of my head and I can’t think straight. I don’t want to.”

“That’s all well and good love. I know how you feel, because I feel the same way. And the truth is we can have sex. We’re both adults, we both want to. But I want it to be the right time. I don’t want you to regret it.”

“I honestly don’t think I could ever regret being with you,” she says raising her eyebrows as her hands slide along his toned abs.

“I think that’s just your hormones talking,” he says smirking as a chuckle escapes his lips.

“Maybe. But I don’t think that has to be a bad thing,” Aria says kissing his neck.

“You know, (clears his throat) there are other things we could do,” he says lowering himself on the mattress.

“Really?” she says flirtatiously. “Do tell?” she says opening her legs as her back arches her body closer to him.

“I’d prefer to show you,” he whispers his eyes peering up at her, intensely yet sparkling blue.

Aria leans back as she grabs a poll on her headboard.

“So just to be clear, we’re going to do everything, but have sex?” Aria asks confused.

“Let’s start here, and see how much you can handle,” Liam smirks as he ducks beneath her sheets.

Aria let’s out a breathy moan as her other hand claws at the sheets.

***

The next morning Aria peeks out of her bed room door.

“Coast is clear, come on, hurry!” she says pulling him by the hand.

“Are you ashamed of me, love?” he asks with a chuckle as she pulls him to the front door.

“No I am saving you from having to answer to my most likely very cranky, and sleep deprived roommates,” Aria says standing up on her tippy toes, placing a kiss on his lips.

“You were quite loud, love.” he says smirking

Aria gasps as she hints him in the chest.

“We didn’t even get to the main event,” he says his eyes flickering as he reaches for the hem of her oversized t-shirt.

“Hey!” she says slapping his hands away with a laugh, “It’s not my fault you had my head spinning,” she says laughing as her cheeks begin to blush.

“Oh love, you have no idea, that was nothing,” he whispers pulling her into him as he kisses her passionately.

“Hmm,” she says smiling up at him, as she kisses him again her hands sliding down his bare chest, his white collared shirt hangs open. “Cover this sexy body up, please. I’d like to not have my man displayed for all the world to see,” she whispers against his lips as he laughs.

“Yes ma’am,” he smirks as he starts to button his shirt.

Aria smiles brightly at him as she hands him his suit jacket.

“Hmm, I like being your man. Yea. That works,” he says leaning in and placing a kiss on her lips.

“Yea?” she asks scrunching her nose, as she looks up at him.

“Yea,” he says nodding, his heart melting as he kisses her again.

“Call me?” she asks.

“Of course,” he smirks, “bye love,” he whispers kissing her once more before leaving.

Aria closes her door and leans up against it. She grabs her chest, “Oh my god!” she whispers to herself. Closing her eyes replaying last night’s events.

Opening her eyes she’s met with two very frazzled cousins.

“There better be coffee,” Yolanda says walking into the kitchen.

Layla groans in agreement as she drags her feet over to a seat at the island.

“Did I wake you…last night?” Aria says wincing.

“Ya think? I swear if you both didn’t have jobs he would have spent all afternoon here too!” Layla says.

“You’re probably right about that.” Aria says smiling coyly.

Yolanda and Layla both give her a look.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to be so vocal about it…” Aria says as she grabs a water from the fridge and then doubles back and switches it for a Gatorade.

“So I take it things went well with Liam. Gatorade good huh?” Layla says pointing to her drink of choice.

“Um…yes, but we uh didn’t actually have sex…”

“So then what was with all the “Oh Liam!” “Oh my god, Liam!”” Layla and Yolanda yell making fun of her.

“Hey, you know there are other things you can do…” Aria says shrugging her shoulders.

“Oh yes ok. I am aware. But really that’s all you did… And he just offered?” Yolanda asked.

“Yup,” Aria says smiling as she grabs a banana from the fruit bowl on the kitchen island.

“Wow, that’s…” Yolanda begins.

“Hot,” Layla finishes.

“Very,” Aria says raising an eyebrow. “But trust me, I definitely returned the favor,” she says smirking.

Layla and Yolanda burst out laughing.

“Oh my god! You dirty bird.” Layla says.

“I’m just really happy,” Aria says smiling brightly.

“Good,” Yolanda says smiling.

“You deserve it,” Layla agrees.

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 17

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

parental-advisory-explicit-

 

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 16  HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

 

Liam sits in his office staring at a mound of paperwork in front of him. As his phone rings for the third time, the name “Mum” flashing across it. He scoffs ignoring it as he picks it up and tosses it in his side draw.

Liam sets to making calls and answering emails as time passes him by. Anne comes in.

“Mr. Whitmore, it’s 8:30, I’m going to head out.”

“Oh, I must have completely lost track of time. My apologies Anne, please have a good night. Thank you for staying so late, I will certainly make sure you are compensated for your time.”

“Thank you sir. If I may suggest…you really should go home yourself. You seem exhausted. This will all be here tomorrow.”

Liam’s face falls.

“I’ve overstepped, I’m so sorry sir.”

“Oh no, no it’s not that Anne. Come on you and I are a team, you could never offend me. You know me better than that. I just know that you’re right, is all.”

“Oh, ok.” Anne says with a smile. “Try to take some time to relax, you deserve it.”

“Thank you Anne, I appreciate you saying that,” Liam says with a nod.

“Good night sir,” Anne says with a smile.

“Good night,” Liam says as she leaves.

Liam sits at his desk as he sighs, his phone buzzing in his draw.

He stands up looking out at the skyline. The sun had long set into a hue of colors that you couldn’t recreate if you tried.

There’s a knock on his door as it creaks open, “Hi,” Aria says.

Liam freezes, knowing her voice well.

He turns, their eyes meeting instantly.

“I tried calling you first but-“

His phone buzzes in his desk.

“I’m sorry, I was getting an insane amount of calls from my mum, so I just kind of shoved it in a draw. Out of sight, out of mind.”

“I tried the office phone too…”

“Anne transfers the calls to voicemail before she leaves.”

“Ah.” Aria says nodding as her eyes fall to her fidgeting hands.

“You must have really wanted to talk to me. I mean it just seems like you went through a lot of trouble to find me.”

“Yea I just um- I felt bad, about what I said. I shouldn’t have been so harsh.”

“No, its ok, you were right.”

“Still, it was out of line. I mean we don’t know each other long enough or well enough for me to judge your choices. So I just wanted to say, that I’m sorry.”

“Apology accepted. It was unnecessary, but I do appreciate it.”

Aria looks up at him as she nods.

“Is that all you came to tell me?”

“I don’t know, I guess that depends.” she says shrugging.

“Depends on what?” he asks loosening his tie a bit as his heart begins to beat quicker. He coughs, nervously.

“On whether or not your explanation is worth a second chance. It occurred to me that my cousins and I may have been making some of our own judgements about you too. And I don’t think that’s fair. So if you still want a chance to explain, I’m all ears.” she says with a small smile.

Liam let’s out a sigh of relief as he walks over to her, cupping her face, he places a kiss on her lips.

Aria responds quicker than she would have liked, her arms wrapping around his neck, his hands cupping under her thighs as he lifts her up onto his desk.

Things get rather heated as Liam slides his hands up her legs, landing under her dress on her thighs.

Just then, the office door swings open, the janitor walks in, startling them.

“Oh, Edgar. Hello.” Liam says straitening his tie as Aria jumps down from the desk, fixing her dress.

“My apologies sir, I thought you had left, please, as you were.” he says smiling as he exits he gives Liam a thumbs up.

Liam closes his eyes and shakes his head, clearly embarrassed.

Aria laughs as Liam joins in.

“Dirty old man, that Edgar.” Aria says looking after his retreating figure as he puts his headphones on, whistling to his current playlist.

“The worst,” Liam says laughing as he reaches for Aria, placing his hands on her waist and squeezing her sides as his eyes flicker a certain heat.

“Although I do think that might have been a sign that we are moving too quick, too soon, once again. I did say IF your explanation was good enough. And I have yet to actually hear one,” Aria says raising her eyebrows in expectation, as she smiles.

“I am terribly sorry love, I didn’t mean to be disrespectful. I just saw you and I couldn’t help myself,” he says in a sexy whisper, as his hands slide down over her backside.

“Clearly,” she says removing his hands as he laughs.

“Shall we go for a walk, I’m not good in confined spaces around you,” he says looking at her with a smirk.

“Yes, a walk is good,” she says nodding, a small smile creeping onto her lips.

“Lead the way,” he says holding his hand out.

Aria smiles as she begins to walk away, his eyes glance her over. She turns quickly back toward him, and notices. “Excuse you? I saw that,” she says with a gasp.

Liam blushes. “Can you blame me?”

Aria narrows her eyes at him, as she reaches past him, she grazes him with her chest accidently, and he freezes, he inhales sharply. Trying to fight all impulse.

“I forgot my bag,” she says waving it, as she strings it onto her shoulder and exits the room.

Liam lets out a chuckle as he follows after her sauntering curvy figure, a smirk on his lips.

They get on the elevator and Liam looks at her.

“Stop it.” she says a smirk hiding under her stern face.

“What, love?” he asks innocently.

“Stop looking at me like that, and hands where I can see them,” she says pointing as he holds up both hands with a fake serious face.

The elevator doors close.

***

Aria and Liam walk along as they pass city street vendors and people hustling about.

Liam eyes her discreetly, he gently takes her hand, lacing his fingers through hers.

Aria looks down, slightly shocked.

“Why Liam Whitmore I do believe we’re in public,” she says in a playful, yet condescending tone.

Liam pulls her to him, “I do believe we’ve already almost had very public sex, this is nothing,” he says kissing her passionately.

A bystander snaps a picture that goes unnoticed by the doting new “couple.”

Aria feels her knees going, as she forces herself to pull away.

“Liam,” she says her voice low and uncertain.

“I’m sorry, love,” he whispers giving her some distance.

“Maybe we should go get something to eat, ya know put a table between us.” she says with a little laugh.

“We could always just end up sitting on the same side of the table, you know love?”

“We could. But we won’t. Because I still haven’t heard any kind of explanation from you.”

“Right,” he says sullenly.

Aria smirks as she points to a small restaurant nearby.

Liam sits across from Aria in silence. His eyes downcast.

Aria looks at him confused.

“I’m sorry. I don’t understand you Liam. You say you want a chance to explain and here I am giving you one. Your last one, by the way. And you still have nothing to say?”

“Aria, my family is complicated…”

“No. Ok. That’s not what I wanna hear. I don’t want to hear about your mom or the business and what they want from you. I want to hear about what you want.”

“It’s difficult. I guess I’ve never really been asked that question,” Liam says his eye brows scrunching together.

“Well I’m asking. Try. Think.”

“Aria I-” he says at a loss for words.

“You know what, this was a mistake,” she says getting up.

“No Aria, wait, please,” he says grabbing her hand.

Aria instantly feels a spark.

She looks at him and walks around and sits next to him.

“Look. It was very clear to me, very early on, that I was attracted to you. When we are together, it is extremely overwhelming. You make me feel…a lot of things,” she says with a small sexy laugh. “I know that if we were to just base this thing on physical attraction and sexual desires, we’d score 10/10. Do you agree?”

“Absolutely,” he says his eyes glistening the same familiar heat.

“But-that’s not enough for me. I need to know that the man that I’m with can talk to me and can listen and hear me too. I get that you were raised a certain way. But in order for this to work I need you to talk to me. And be honest about what you want. From life, from me. Because I’m telling you right now, if I’m just some experiment to you…”

“You are not an experiment. I swear to you, Aria. I care for you…deeply,” he says starring into her eyes as he cups her face.

“I care for you too,” she says with a small smile.

Liam sighs as he goes to lean in, and then stops.

“May I kiss you?” he asks.

Aria laughs, rolling her eyes, “Shut up,” she says pulling him into a kiss. “You really don’t know how relationships work, do you?” she asks with a laugh, her lips still grazing his.

“Clearly not.” he shakes his head as he laughs.

“What do you want?” she whispers.

“You.” he whispers back, pulling her into a kiss, “All of you, your heart, your mind.”

Aria looks up at him as she waits for the next, she arches her eyebrow, “my body?” she asks with sass.

“When the time is right, yes, your body too. Hell yes,” he says with a smirk as she laughs and leans into his lips again.

“And what about your mother…what do we do about her?” Aria asks.

“She doesn’t get a say in who I spend my time with, not anymore.”

“Are you going to tell her that?”

“I mean I think my mum is starting to gather that from the hundreds of unanswered phone calls and me calling her a monster at the ball.”

“You called her a monster?” Aria says her eyes wide.

“Well she is, I’m just so sorry that it took her hurting you for me to realize that.”

“So you did…stick up for me?” Aria says pouting as she cups his face, placing a kiss on his lips.

“Well I tried to, but she’s a shark and wanted me to still fall in line and smile for pictures. Which I did. And I’m sorry for that Aria. I know I should have done more, I should have fought harder. But I want you to know that from now on I will. Even if it means never talking to her again.”

“Liam. You could never do that.”

“Yes I could. For you.  For us. I could. I will.” he says grabbing her hand and lifting it to his lips as he places a kiss on it.

“I would never want you to,” Aria says her voice low, her eyes soft.

Liam looks at her confused.

“You fighting with your mother is not what I want. I just want you to stand up for yourself. Tell her what you want. She obviously loves you, eventually she’ll come around.”

“I don’t know about that, she and my sister, haven’t spoken in years.”

“That’s your fear isn’t it? That you’re the only glue still holding your family together?”

Liam looks down at their hands. He falls silent.

“Hey…talk to me,” She says tightening her grip on his hand as she strokes his chest with her other, trying to comfort him.

“You really just get in there, don’t you, love? Right into people’s souls?”

“What can I say, it’s a gift.” she smiles draping an arm around his shoulders as she cups his neck with her hand.

“I want to talk to you. But it’s not exactly easy for me, Aria. I mean I haven’t said these words out loud. Ever.” he says looking at her.

“Ok, I can understand that. And given the fact that we don’t know each other that well yet, I can see you being hesitant about telling me all your deepest darkest secrets.”

“It’s not that. It’s not you. In fact, you are the only person I feel has ever actually asked me what I want. And I am so grateful to you for that. I just, I guess I just worry that once I admit these truths to you, I will finally have to admit them to myself.”

“Is that such a bad thing, though? I mean when we run from things, and we don’t take the time to deal with them and work through them, we just end up living half a life. We just keep running. I don’t want that for you. Or for us.”

“You are something special, aren’t you?” he says leaning into kiss her.

Aria smiles as she wipes lipstick from his lips.

“How about I start…” Aria says. Liam nods.

“I feel like you and I really have something here. But I’m scared. Because right now, I am supposed to be spending ever free second I have working towards my dream. And ever since I met you, I have been easily distracted. And I’m not blaming you. I want to be with you. But I also fear that you could easily walk away at any point and you’d be fine. But I could lose everything. This is my last shot. And I was risking that to figure out what we are, because I believe you’re worth it. I want it all. A career, a partner, a life of love. But I do worry that what if things change. What if this thing fizzles out as quickly as it started?”

Liam looks at her, and his eyes fill.

“Aria, I-” he stops looking down as he sighs.

Aria smiles simply up at him as she takes his hands in hers.

“Take your time, I’m not going anywhere,” she says softly.

“I can’t make you believe me. I can only tell you my truth. And the truth is…I’ve never felt this way about anyone. Ever. My heart explodes every time I see you or hear your voice. I just want to be with you, (he says pulling her into a sweet kiss), every minute. I don’t know what the future holds, I can’t promise you everything will be perfect. But I can promise you, that I will do whatever I can to make this- us, work. I just want us to have the time to see how we’d be together. I promise to always fight for you, to be more open and tell you what I want and how I feel. I promise to be honest. And I promise to fall crazy, head over heels in love with you.” he says smiling down at her.

Aria smiles brightly as she pulls him into a kiss. Liam wrapping his arms tightly around her waist as he sighs into her lips.

He pulls away for a minute, “I want you to know. I will respect your dream. When you need to rehearse, I will not get in your way. I can tell how much this showcase means to you. I would never want to jeopardize that for you.”

Aria looks up at him “Thank you,” she says stroking his face gently, before kissing him sweetly.

Liam looks at her, “Thank you, love.” he says cupping her face and leaning into another kiss.

A bystander snaps a picture, unknown to the new couple.

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 16

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

Parental-advisory-explicit-lyrics

 

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 15 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

 

Aria shuts the radio off as she begins to roll up the cord and gather her stuff from another dance practice session.

She catches his reflection in the mirror standing behind her.

“Hi,” he says his voice low.

“This is a closed practice.” she says continuing to pack up her stuff.

“Aria, I know that I handled things poorly the other night,” he says walking closer toward her.

“That’s an understatement,” she says grabbing her stuff and walking past him towards the door.

“Aria, please. I’m utterly gutted.”

“Who talks like this?” she says swinging around.

He looks at her confused.

“Just say what you actually mean.” she says rolling her eyes.

“I’m sorry. I never meant to hurt you. I should have fought for you sooner, harder. I should have told my mother off on a greater scale. I mean if it makes you feel any better I haven’t spoken to her in days. Which if you recall is quite unheard of.”

“Yea she only calls every hour,” Aria says rolling her eyes yet again.

“Aria I’m so sorry. I really want this to work between us. I don’t want society to get in the way of that. I like you… so much. It’s actually quite overwhelming how quickly I’ve fallen for you.” he says, his eyes locking onto hers. Aria’s stomach flips as the hardened exterior around her heart begins to melt in his presence.

“Why?” she says trying to remain guarded, “Why me?”

“Well, I imagine it’s because you are quite staggering, love. I didn’t stand a chance,” he says his voice perfectly raspy and a small smirk at the corner of his lips.

“I’ve seen you in action, it’s not like you don’t have vast opportunities to be with tons of women.”

“Aria, you are nothing like any of the women I’ve dated in the past.”

“Gee thanks,” she says in a huff, her eyes rolling.

“Oh gosh, no, no, I mean that in a good way. I seem to be already mucking this up,” he says, a look of defeat spreading across his face.

Aria softens, “Aren’t you used to rejection? I mean you are a businessman.”

“Well no, actually, quite frankly I usually get what I’m after,” he says coughing nervously as he loosens his tie. His sleeves already rolled up as he holds his jacket at his side. Aria’s eyes take notice. Damn he’s sexy, she thinks.

“Hmm, it’s interesting really,” she says walking out the door, leaving him confused.

He rushes after her.

“Was that the end of our conversation?” he says as she walks to the street, holding her hand up to hail a cab.

Aria laughs, “…it’s interesting how when it comes to business and what you feel you HAVE to do, you’ll fight for it. You’ll make sure you get what you want. Or at least what your mom makes you think you want. But when it’s something personal, something that you want for yourself, you cower.”

Liam looks at her, taken back by her honesty. A blow to his ego and to his heart.

A cab halts nearby.

“That’s my ride. What? You didn’t actually think I’d make this easy on you. Did you?” she smirks, “besides it’s just an observation, from a little commoner like me. Now, this conversation is over.” she says getting into the cab.

As it drives away Aria feels vindicated for a brief moment, but then the ache sets in. Deeper than the night of the fundraiser. Why is it that she can stand the hurt when someone hurts her but when she’s the one hurting someone, the weight in her heart is even more overwhelming. Damn her empathetic nature.

***

Aria sits on a bench in the ladies locker room, surrounded by her girl gang and overall support system.

“Was I too hard on him? I mean it’s not like we’ve been dating for years and years and he’s wronged me so many times. This was his first offense.”

“I mean I think you were spot on, you don’t need him.” Yolanda says taking a sip from her water bottle.

“No she doesn’t. But the question is…do you want him? Because there’s a difference,” Allie says imparting her relationship wisdom.

All the women look at Aria. Watching. Waiting.

“I do. Damn it! I still do. I can’t shake it. Walking away from him in that moment was seriously one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. And then I could tell he was really hurt by what I said. It was like I sucker punched him with my words,” Aria says covering her face.

“Well I say good for him. He needed to hear that.” Molly says nodding her head as Yolanda taps her water bottle into hers in the form of a cheers agreement.

“Lay, what do you think?” Aria asks, her head spinning.

Layla looks around nervously. “Oh am I like the tie breaker here? I really don’t like holding that much power.”

“Lay, come on, I really need to know what you think. You were there the night of the ball. What do you think? Do you think he’s worth a second glance?”

“I mean, he IS insanely hot…”

They all laugh as Yolanda frowns, rolling her eyes.

“Yea she is right, you should at least hit that before quitting it,” Allie says laughing as Aria gasps. “Oh please don’t act like you haven’t already thought about it, you just told us how you nearly did it at a public party with nearly 300 people including his mother in attendance,” Allie says laughing.

All the girls clap in fits of laughter, “True,” Aria says smirking.

“Look I can’t tell you what to do. Because you can get hurt either way, and I hate the idea of that. But I will say, he did look like he was genuinely a mess when you walked away from him that night. I realize this isn’t an easy situation, you’re from two different worlds. But it’s not impossible. Maybe you can at least hear him out. No witty comebacks, just listen. And if he doesn’t make one last, solid case, then walk away for good. You don’t wanna sit here, night after night wondering, what if.” Layla says.

All the girls except Yolanda kind of nod in agreement.

“You are way beyond your years girl,” Aria says smiling as she drapes an arm around her younger cousin’s shoulders.

“Oh, but yes please do have sex. Because he is one fine man.” Layla says smiling, as the girls all cheer and yell in praise.

Yolanda walks out of the room.

“I got her.” Aria says looking at a worried Layla as she turns rushing after Yolanda.

“Yoyo, come on we’re all adults here,” she calls as she follows her out of the gym and onto the sidewalk.

“You just don’t get it,” Yolanda says turning toward her, her eyes filling with tears.

“I suppose I don’t,” Aria says becoming instantly worried, “Yoyo what’s going on with you?”

“I’m sorry, this is my shit, I don’t wanna drag you into it,” she says wiping her tears in frustration.

“Yolanda, we’re family. Your shit is my shit. Besides you’re allowed to have your moments, you can’t be strong every second of every day. It’s ok to feel sad.”

“I’m so sorry. I’ve been so judgey and so controlling. And it’s only because I’ve been where you are. And it didn’t end well for me.”

“What do you mean?”

“A few years ago, when I was still in nursing school, I fell in love with this guy. He was gorgeous and wealthy and he and I were really hot and heavy for months. But he would always make excuses to not hang out in public, or make excuses to not introduce me to his family. At first it was cute, he would say things like, “Let’s stay in, I just want you all to myself.” And it didn’t really phase me for a while, because I loved him. When we were alone, it was like, I was his whole world. And things got really heated one night and we had sex.”

Aria’s eyes widen.

“The next morning I woke up and he was gone. I tried calling, texting, he never responded. He ignored me at school, like I didn’t even exist. It was like he got what he wanted and that was it. And it hurt like hell. I just couldn’t understand, how someone could lie like that. Just make you feel like they cared so much, and then boom, nothing. Like I meant nothing. And that was my first time.” she says wiping the tears falling away.

“Oh Yolanda. I’m so sorry. I never knew.” She says pulling her into a hug.

“I know you didn’t. I didn’t want you to. I just kept living in this vicious thought cycle of what did I do? Why didn’t he want me? Why wasn’t I good enough? And then finally one day, I overheard him talking to a group of his guy friends in the school cafeteria, and I remember hearing someone ask “whatever happened to that Latina chick, you banged,” and he responded, “she was fun, hot as hell, but come on bro, I can’t bring her home. She’d never fit in.” I give him credit, his response could have been much more revolting, but to demean me to a fun, hot, Latina chick he once banged. I just, couldn’t have it. So I walked over and gave him a swift knee to the nuts,” Yolanda says as Aria burst out laughing.

“Oh my god, Yes! That’s amazing. What did he say?” Aria says through her laugh.

“He couldn’t say much,” Yolanda laughs, “But I just looked at him and said, “that was for…well let’s be honest, you know what that was for. But in case you and your homies here are too slow, that’s a proper hello from a Latina chick. Have a nice day, boys.”

“Oh my god, I love you. That’s amazing. I really wish I could have been there to see that.”

Yolanda laughs. “I felt really good after that. But that doesn’t mean that my self-esteem didn’t take a major hit.”

“Of course, I mean I can only imagine. But that’s a reflection of him, not you. You’re amazing.”

“Oh I know that.” Yolanda says nodding.

Aria laughs pulling her into a hug.

“So did you ever hear from him again?”

“I did. He came to my dorm that night and apologized and told me it wasn’t personal. That it’s his family who puts this crazy social status pressure on him and how he did really like me but he didn’t know how to handle that, and blah, blah, blah.”

“Wow, so what’d you do?”

“I told him, that I didn’t believe him, and that I was over it. That wasn’t entirely true, but I just couldn’t trust him, not after that. If you love someone, I mean really love someone you would want to shout it to the world. And you wouldn’t let anyone keep you from doing so. And I know your situation is entirely different. And I’ve been projecting my fears onto you. And I am sorry for that. I just never want you to hurt the way I did. And when you met Liam… I don’t know… it just started to feel all too familiar.”

“Yoyo, I’m so sorry I’ve been so insensitive.”

“Hey you didn’t know. I’m sorry I lied to you. I know I put on this virginal act and now it seems like I’m a total hypocrite. I mean granted I haven’t been with anyone since, but still.”

“No. It’s understandable that you wouldn’t want to go there with someone, after having someone do what he did to you. But just because one guy did that, doesn’t mean they all will.”

“I know. I guess I’m just scared.”

“You? Scared? You’re a warrior. The bravest person I know. Look what you do for a living.”

Yolanda laughs, as she wipes more tears from her cheeks.

“There is this one guy…” she says.

“It’s Dr. Greene isn’t it?”

“Yes!” Yolanda says squeezing her eyes closed tightly.

“Ah! I knew it! I know sex eyes when I see them.”

“We haven’t had sex obviously…”

“Yea but have you thought about it?” Aria says smirking at her cousin.

Yolanda looks away as a crimson flush creeps onto her cheeks.

Aria gasps as she playfully hits her cousin’s shoulder.

“Atta girl,” she says smiling.

“Hey, a girl can day dream. But the truth is we haven’t even really gone out. He just has hinted several times that he’d like to take me out. But he is my boss, and with that comes an entire slew of ethics. He’s my superior so it really isn’t allowed.”

“Do you want to go out with him?” Aria asks her curiosity at its peak.

“Yes. God yes. Have you seen him? He’s gorgeous and he’s incredibly smart. He’s an amazing doctor and he is so sweet. I get butterflies just thinking about him. But it would be very complicated and we’d have to sneak around. And I just can’t do that again.”

“You know, sneaking around forbidden territory could be extremely sexy and fun, and damn it, girl you deserve to have some hot, sexy, fun.”

Yolanda covers her mouth, “Aria!” she says laughing.

“What, you are a young woman with needs, there’s no shame in admitting it.”

Yolanda and Aria laugh and wrap each other in a bear hug.

“I think I need to see Liam, I just need to know if what I felt was real. If what he felt was real. If nothing else, I need closure.”

“Ok, well then that’s what you should do. Just….please be careful and when in doubt-“

“Knee to the nuts.” Aria says nodding as Yolanda nods laughing.

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

 

Move- Chapter 15 (FINALLY!!!)

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

Parental-advisory-explicit-lyrics

 

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 14 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

 

Aria bursts through the large golden doors as Yolanda follows closely behind, dragging Layla along.

“Ari, Ari wait!” Yolanda yells after her.

“Are you happy, you were right?” Aria says swinging around, tears filling in her eyes.

“Of course I’m not happy. I can’t be happy if you’re not happy.” Yolanda says.

“Ok, I’m lost, what’s going on?” Layla says confused.

“Liam’s mother just basically called me a gold digging whore, and he did nothing to defend me.”

“What!” Layla yells dumbfounded.

Just then the gold doors swing open, and Liam rushes through them, his eyes locking on Aria’s.

“Aria!” he calls.

“I need to get out of here.” Aria says turning away from him and rushing off.

“Aria, Aria please wait,” he says as Yolanda steps in front of his path, halting him.

“No,” she says holding her hand up.

Layla stands beside her sister, crossing her arms.

“I just wanna say, even though I just met you, well sort of- I really don’t like you.” Layla says walking off to find Aria.

Liam sighs, “Look, my mum is old fashioned, she believes in social status and…”

“And what, you don’t?” Yolanda says challenging him, “Nice, tux, by the way. Must have set you back quite a few thousands,” she says sarcastically.

“Yolanda, I realize that this was not a good first impression. But my family’s hang ups are not my own. I adore Aria. She is the first woman who has ever made me feel alive. Who didn’t buy into the whole wealthy equals worth machine. It’s all bluster and bullshit. She knows what my family still has yet to learn. But I promise you, I’m already there. Please just let me talk to her,” he says his eyes glancing in the direction of where she ran off to.

“Why should I? She clearly doesn’t want to talk to you. Hence her running away the minute she saw your face.”

“Please, I know she’s hurt, I just need a chance to explain…”

“Yea, that’s still a no.” Yolanda says crossing her arms over her chest. “Do you have any idea how much Aria has fought through to get where she is today?”

“She told me a bit about her parents and how she just found you two, just a few years ago,” Liam says his eyes gentle. His voice cautious.

“Yea, but I’m sure you don’t know it all, I mean how could you?”

“I suppose your right.” Liam says sullenly. “But I’d like the chance to.”

“You say that now, but what happens the next time, you’re seen in public with her. What excuse will you have to come up with? We’re Latinas. We’re curvy. We’re loud. But we’re also fighters, we struggle just to make ends meet every day. Me, I’m a nurse I save lives every day. Just because people like you have the money to help, doesn’t mean that you’ve bought my brains, my skill for knowledge. Layla… she goes to Harvard, top in her class, and she’s on her way to being the most kick-ass lawyer. And Aria. Well Aria’s too damn good for you. She is beautiful, and funny and smart. She is also talented as hell. She has a dream and I will not let you, or anyone else-least of all your cruel witch of a mother- get in her way. Especially when it’s very clear that she is just a way for you to sow your oats. Nail the Latina beauty for one steamy affair just before you settle down with the leggy blonde mommy set you up with from birth. Keep that legacy safe.”

“You’re right,” Liam says in a straight forward tone.

Yolanda nods, a knowing sense of odd satisfaction in having her point proven.

“Aria is too good for me,” Liam says challenging Yolanda’s obligations.

“Good, glad we’re on the same page. So why don’t you go tell mommy that,” she says not wanting to give him any hope that her walls are breaking down.

“Forgive me, thank you for your time,” he says rather reserved as he turns and heads back toward the ballroom, straightening his tie and his tux jacket in an attempt to shake off his heartache.

Yolanda exhales heavily as she turns and walks off to find Aria and Layla. She turns the corner, and gets startled by both girls standing close by, within earshot.

“Hey, there you are. I figured you headed home.”

“I wanted to, but I just wanted to hear what he had to say. Surprise surprise it wasn’t much.” Aria says defeated as she sits on a nearby cement step. Her black gown puddling around her.

“Hey don’t you do that.” Layla says sitting next to her cousin.

“He didn’t even fight for me,” Aria says confused. “I know we haven’t been seeing each other long, and it doesn’t make sense to you. But if you guys could just feel even the slightest bit of what it felt like between he and I, you’d get it. Every time we kissed it was like…electric. I just thought there was something there. Something real.”

“In his defense…” Layla begins.

Both Aria and Yolanda give her a look.

“No,” Yolanda says sternly.

“What… I’m just saying, it’s not exactly like Yoyo gave him much of a chance to defend his feelings for you.”

“True.” Aria says with a laugh.

“Hey, he hurt you, I’m not interested in making him feel better.”

Aria laughs.

“Besides, if he really wanted to talk to you, and straighten this all out, nothing I said or did would have stopped him.”

“Also True.” Aria says nodding, “You really do have this whole mama bear thing down.”

Yolanda rolls her eyes.

“And I love you for it.” Aria says pulling Yolanda down onto the step beside her as she hugs her, Layla joins in too.

“This is all I need. You guys are my family and you are amazing. Besides, I have the dance showcase of my career in less than a month so, it’s really probably for the best. He was distracting me. It’s just such a shame we had to leave the party early, there was so much free alcohol.”

“Well… I managed to steal a bottle of champagne, courtesy of my sexy waiter boy,” Layla says pulling the bottle out of her big sack purse that one normally wouldn’t pair with a ball gown.

“Oh!” Aria says happily clapping.

“Yes. Brava,” Yolanda says with a slow cap, “Momma raised you right” Yolanda says grabbing her sister’s hand and fake crying.

Aria and Layla laugh as they all stand, Layla pops the cork. The girls scream in unison as the champagne spills over the brim of the bottle, making their way back out towards the front of the hall leading to the valet lot.

“Woo!” Aria screams throwing her hands up in the air. Layla hands her the bottle as she chugs a bit, she laughs handing it to Yolanda, as they all link arms and walk off laughing.

Liam watches from afar, standing in front of the golden doors, separating him from the life he was raised into and the life he desperately wants. As a photographer exits the doors, he asks for a picture of him, Liam nods, forcing a smile. “Excuse me,” he says walking away once the flash goes off. The light blinding his eyes. He takes out his phone, he goes to dial Aria, but instead dials his sister Evelyn “Sky.”

“Hello, bugga!” she screams.

“Hi, where are you?” he says covering one ear.

“What? I can’t hear you!” she says standing in the back of a packed club.

“Where are you?” he yells.

“Oh, my band is playing at this cheeky little pub in Brooklyn, oh bugga you’d absolutely love it. It smells of cigars and scotch. Just like–“

“Dad,” Liam says his eyes casting down.

“Dad,” Sky says sullenly.

A silence deep. Siblings know.

“Oh let’s not go there huh, bugga. How are things? How is my future sister in law, Aria?” she says with a laugh.

Liam sighs heavily.

“Oh no, trouble in paradise?” she says walking toward the door, waving to a bandmate and holding up 5 fingers, mouthing “5 minutes,” as he nods, she exits the club.

“I messed up Ev-“

“I find that hard to believe. You are quite charming. And the last time I saw you two, you could barely keep your hands off each other.”

“Yea, we were doing quite well, really well. She is…phenomenal. It was perfect actually and then we mixed our worlds and-“

“And good OLD mum happened?”

“She called her a gold digger, not even to her face, which was somehow so much worse. Aria over heard, told her off and stormed out. Nothing phased mum of course. She just expected me to move along with our evening of picture taking and painful fake grinning.”

“Well I mean I have to admit, I’m not surprised. But I am terribly sorry bugga. What happened with Aria when you went after her? What’d you say to her?”

“Not enough, it was a very public event, and there were cameras everywhere. So it couldn’t have happened at a worse time. I never actually got to speak to her.”

“Oh, Liam. That’s just awful. You really did mess this one up,” she says using his real name to amplify her seriousness.

“Thank you. Very much.” he says laughing at his sister’s well known blunt bone.

“I’m sorry. I don’t mean to kick you when you’re down. But if you really feel strongly for this girl, you need to do more than just the bare minimum. You have to fight for her. You can’t just sit back and sulk.”

“I do not sulk.”

“Oh bugga, yes you do.”

“I just- I don’t know how to make this right. She won’t talk to me, and I don’t want to be disrespectful to her wishes.”

“You already were, when you didn’t stand up for her in that moment. It needs to be a public declaration. A separation. You don’t want to work for the family business, don’t. You want Aria, go get her. You need to stop making excuses and live your own life. It’s time, bugga. Make the break. I’ll be here, just like you were for me.”

“I’m not as brave as you Ev-“

“Yes you are. But you know its fine, just wait, sitting on the sidelines, as some new guy swoops in and sweeps her off her feet. Because then she really will be off limits. Girls like her, don’t stay unattached for long.  I’ve seen how guys look at her. You definitely have a world of competition. Didn’t you even say that Marco from the office was looking…”

“Ok! Thank you for that, Ev!” he says annoyed

“Tough love bugga! Figured you needed a little fire under your bum. Go get your girl. I love you, I’ll talk to you tomorrow!” she says hanging up and rushing back into the club.

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 14

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

Hi friends! Sorry I was MIA last week, it was a birthday on Tuesday so I had a busy week! But I have some fun news….

I know it has been an incredibly long hiatus for this short story series. And I apologize. But I am determined to finish what I started in 2017. This story has a ways to go still, and I hope you enjoy this latest Chapter!

Parental-advisory-explicit-lyrics

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 13 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE


MOVE poster

The head of the hospital, takes the stage as he nods at the applause with gratitude. A handsome, tall, younger than you would expect, broad shouldered man.

“Good Evening, everyone, my name is Dr. Matthew Greene and I am the head of the hospital, and I just wanted to welcome you all here tonight and thank you for coming out to support our children’s charity…”

“Whoa,” Layla whispers with wandering eyes, leaning over to Yolanda, “that’s your boss?”

“Yes,” Yolanda says, her gaze focused on the speech ahead.

“You work with that hottie everyday?” Aria whispers.

“Shh, cut it out.” Yolanda whispers with a harsh tone.

“Girl, you seriously need to get on that, ASAP,” Layla says smirking as she watches the gorgeous man before them.

“Layla.” Yolanda says surprised as she looks at her sister.

Aria lets out a little laugh.

“She’s hanging out with you and your friends too much.” Yolanda says giving Aria a stern glare.

“True,” Aria says, “But honestly Yolanda, you’re boss is a total fox.”

“He is my boss. That might be your style, but it’s not mine. Now shush!” she says giving Aria a face and facing forward just in time to here her name. Aria feels the burn a bit, but let’s is slide for now.

“… I’d like to acknowledge the head of our planning committee this year, Yolanda Lenz, for creating this beautiful atmosphere for us tonight. She truly out did herself,” he says smiling and clapping.

Yolanda smiles, as Aria and Layla clap proudly, Aria bumps her hip into her cousin as she smiles at her.

Yolanda blushes, as the girls notice.

Liam’s eyes fall on Aria even as he stands waiting to give his speech.

Gertrude noticing, with a fierce disappointment written across her face, her beady cold eyes shifting toward Aria, sizing her up, judging her.

“Now, I’d like to introduce you to a very good friend of the hospital. It is because of this next man’s support we get to help millions of children get the medical care they deserve during such trying times. He is responsible for giving them and their families just a little hope. Please join me in welcoming our incredible sponsor, Mr. Liam Whitmore,” Dr. Greene smiles brightly as he claps stepping back from the podium.

Liam buttons his jacket and with a smile and a wave, he walks up to the microphone, shaking hands with Dr. Greene.

“Good Evening,” he says his British accent showing. “I am honored to be here with all of you tonight. This has always been an incredible event to be a part of. Anything regarding the well being of a child is close to my heart. Children are our future and it’s our job as adults to make sure they get a happy and healthy one. What we do, how we act in the world around us, shapes and molds them. Some children have a bumpy journey, and it is here, that journey can receive a bit of hope. Each member of this hospital is a beacon of hope. I’ve seen them all work tirelessly everyday to protect the lives of their patients. I’ve already been told we are getting some incredible donations tonight, and we thank you. We thank you for your care for these special young lives. It is because of your generosity that the hospital gets to continue doing such amazing things for our youth. We thank you for your hope. And we hope you enjoy your night. Every tiny bit counts. Enjoy!” he says with a smile as he steps off the stage to applause and many hand shakes.

Aria’s eyes meet his through the crowd as she shifts her eyes up to the second floor balcony, Liam smirks at her as he sends her a wink, shaking yet another hand.

Gertrude’s eyes following their every exchange.

Aria smiles, “I’ll be back,” she whispers to her cousins.

“Do not get caught, there is a ton of press here. Liam is a big deal.” Yolanda whispers.

“Discretion. Don’t worry,” she says laughing as she makes her way through the crowded room towards the stairs.

Liam’s eyes follow her as he stands in a sea of rich people greetings, press pictures, and hand shakes.

“Excuse me, everyone,” he nods his thanks as he makes a gracious exit, he heads after Aria’s retreating figure.

Gertrude’s eyes narrowing in anger.

Aria stands on the balcony, her hands on the railing, as she looks out at the gorgeous view.

Liam walks onto the second floor, seeing her curvy figure standing there, waiting. For him.

He smirks, as he sneaks up behind her, he wraps his arms around her from behind. “Hi love,”  he whispers in her ear as she jumps slightly, and then calms once she sees it’s Liam.

“You can’t just sneak up on a girl like that,” she says as he let’s out a chuckle.

“Oh I’m sorry, were you expecting someone else?” he whispers as he places a kiss on her neck, pulling her closer to him.

Aria’s eyes flutter close, “Well you know it was either you or Marco,” she says a smirk forming on her lips.

Liam laughs, as he turns her around to face him, “Over my dead body, love,” he smirks pulling her into a heated kiss.

Aria accepts quickly as her arms wrap around his neck, she laughs against his lips, Liam’s hands sliding down her curved body.

“Hmm, your lips are kind of perfect, you know that?” he whispers his eyes fluttering open staring into hers. “Your whole body is perfect,” he says looking her up and down.

“Well then,” she says locking eyes with him, “aren’t you rather frisky today?” she says laughing as she pulls him by his jacket into a kiss.

“I can’t help it, you drive me crazy, love” he whispers inches away from her lips, before covering them with his once more.

She smirks sweetly, pulling away from him slightly, Aria looks up at him, “Nice speech.”

“Thank you,” he says with a smirk as he places another kiss on her lips.

“You’re kind of a big deal, huh?” she says looking down as her hands fall to his chest.

“No, I wouldn’t say that,” he says feeling a weird tension forming between them.

Aria looks at him, as he laughs shyly.

“Liam, people practically fall to your feet when you enter a room.”

“Look love, it’s only because they know my family history. They know I come from money. It’s not because they actually know me,” he says gazing into her worried eyes and tucking her hair behind her ear. “Come here, I don’t want to think about business when your standing here, looking as gorgeous as you do,” he says as he pulls her into a kiss.

Aria smirks against his lips as she cups his face, pulling him closer she deepens their kiss.

Liam’s arms tightening around her body,  both heart beats quickening.

***

Meanwhile, downstairs the sea of people are mingling, flashes snapping, champagne popping and Yolanda’s eyes scan the room in frustration as she sees Gertrude Whitmore hastily heading for the staircase leading to the second floor balcony.

***

Aria and Liam stand tangled up in each other. His hands gliding up and down her body as he deepens each kiss, leaning her against the door frame to the balcony.

Aria’s hands cupping his face as her lips meet his with the same urgency.

Liam pulls away from her breathless.

“We shouldn’t be doing this- here,” he says straightening his tie and fixing himself up. Lipstick smeared across his face.

Aria smirks, “Come on Mr. Whitmore, loosen up,” she says grabbing him by the tie and pulling him into a passionate kiss.

“Hmm your a bad influence,” he whispers against her lips.

“Oh come on, like you’ve never thought about sneaking off and having sex during a work event?” she says looking up at him her eyebrow raised.

“Oh well. I mean sure, I’ve thought about it. But no one’s ever been worth it,” he says grabbing her swiftly into a heated kiss.

Aria responds quickly as her hands reach out unbuckling his pants.

Aria leans against the door frame as Liam starts to hike up her long gown.

“Damn it, just rip the dress. I don’t care, it was on sale,” she says frustrated as Liam’s eyes lock onto hers, they widen with shock as he let’s out a laugh.

Aria covers her face, as she laughs, “Oh my god, I’m sorry this is not sexy.”

Liam looks down at her, and smiles, “Everything about you is sexy.”

Aria looks up at him and smiling she places a sweet kiss on his lips.

Liam pulls away looking down at her, he kisses her again, as his hands slide down the zipper of her dress, allowing the top fabric to loosen showing her black lingerie. Liam kisses her as she reaches down undoing his zipper. As Liam moves to kissing her neck, Aria arches toward him, her hands around his neck. Liam’s hands cup under her as he lifts her up against the door frame. Aria tries to hike up her dress as they don’t break their kiss.

“You sure you wanna do this, love, here. Now?” he whispers.

“More than you know,” she says looking at him through heavy eyes before engaging in another kiss. 

“I just feel like maybe this is slightly bad timing,” he whispers his heart pounding out of his chest.

“Let’s be bad together,” she says kissing him as he let’s out a chuckled sigh before kissing her back. 

“Mmm Hmm!” they both hear as someone stands in the shadows before them.

“Oh my god!” Aria says as Liam places her feet back down on the floor as he rushes to zip his pants and Aria covers her chest.

“Yolanda? Aria says squinting through the darkness as she pulls up her top, straightening her dress out.

“You,” she says pointing to Aria, “Get dressed and get downstairs. And you,” she says pointing to Liam, “Your mom, is on a war path, this is the 2nd time I dodged her from confronting you two. She knows somethings going on here and she is not happy about it. 3 seconds later, and she would have been the one up here right now.”

Liam straightens himself up, clearing his throat, “Thank you for interfering. My apologies,” he says starting to walk off, Aria reaches out grabbing his arm, as he stops to look back. Aria wipes his lips with her thumbs. “Lipstick,” she says with a wince, as she fixes his tie and his hair, he stares into her eyes.

Yolanda watching their sexually charged exchange.

She fake coughs as they gaze into each other’s eyes.

“Call me?” Aria asks.

“Couldn’t stop me if you tried, love.” he says with a wink as he walks toward the stairs, nodding his thanks to Yolanda again.

Aria’s eyes follow him, sexual desire evident, as she let’s out a frustrated breath.

Yolanda stands there, angrily.

“I can’t believe you. Having sex in a public place, where there are tons of cameras. Are you insane? I specifically asked you NOT to do this.”

“We didn’t have sex.” she says.

“You sure as hell looked like you were.”

“Ok, well we almost had sex. We were about to-“

“And you totally would have if I didn’t stop you.”

Aria shrugs.

“Do I even have to tell you how dangerous unprotected sex with someone you barley know is?”

“I do know him. He’s my boyfriend.”

“Is he though?”

“Well maybe we haven’t put a label on it, just yet but-“

“Even if you had, the truth is you knew you didn’t have protection.”

“Now that’s not true, guys carry condoms in their wallets.”

“Does Liam Whitmore look like the kind of guy that worries about carrying condoms in his 3 million dollar leather, monogrammed wallet?”

“I don’t even know how to answer that question. Are you saying he’s a playboy that doesn’t care about protection? Or that he wouldn’t risk messing up his fancy wallet?”

“I don’t even know right now. But besides, you should never just assume the guy has it covered. I’m just so pissed Aria! I specifically asked you not to do this. And you did it anyway. Do you even care that this is my JOB!”

“Of course I care. But, Liam and I-we just couldn’t help ourselves. Ok, I’m sorry! We were still clothed, we didn’t even get that far, why are you making such a big deal about this? No one saw us Yoyo!” Aria says loudly.

“Yes they did. His mother saw you on the balcony the first time. This is not the place Aria.”

“What’s the big deal? So people see him with a woman. Who cares. He’s human. He’s allowed to be attracted to a woman. He’s allowed to have sex if he wants to!”

“That’s not the point Ari. People like Liam are held up to a certain standard. If pictures were to get out that he’s dating someone like you…”

“Wow…ok.” Aria says stumbling back from the blow.

“You know that’s not what I meant. We’re Latina, we’re curvy, we’re considered lower class. Our lives are completely different. And if your relationship or whatever the hell this is were to get out. Your carefree days of doing what you want and when you want it, will be over. These people are relentless, it’s why they are so rich. Because all they care about is business, and unfortunately, you being with Liam would be considered a huge scandal. It would hinder all progress the hospital has made for the children’s charity. So for once can you please think about something other than yourself and see that your actions affect other people!”

“Oh ok, so now I’m the bitch who doesn’t care about children, really Yolanda? You are way off base!”

“Lower your voice, ok, this is a big night for me. This is my job. You know the job that provides for you and Layla.” she says giving her cousin a face.

“Oh wow, ok so the gloves are really coming off now, aren’t they?” Aria says hands on her hips.

“I didn’t mean it to come out like that I’m just mad. I’m the oldest and it’s my responsibility to make sure-“

“No it’s not. Who says?”

“It’s just the way it is.”

“Well you made that a rule for yourself not me. I’m sorry! I like him. And I like having sex. So what if I want to have random, hot sex with a guy that likes to be with me. What’s the big damn deal. God you are so judgey sometimes. Sex is fun, you should try it some time.” she says rolling her eyes as Yolanda looks at her cousin in shock.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry, that was out of line,” Aria says her heart dropping as she reaches for her cousin’s hand.

“You know what Aria your right. Just because I made the choice to save myself for marriage, doesn’t mean that you have to. And I love you, but you are not being smart about this. You barely know him. You don’t know his sexual history. How many women he’s been with. If he’s the type of man who you can actually trust with your heart and your body. I mean what happened to taking it slow…”

“Yoyo, please. I love you too. I respect you and  I am so grateful that I have you in my life to look out for me. But you don’t have to worry so much. I’m an adult. I can take care of myself. I’m telling you I can just feel it in my gut that Liam is a good guy. When I’m with him I just know. I can’t explain it. It’s just a feeling I get when I’m with him.”

“I just hope your right. Because, I really don’t think I could take it, if anything happened to you.”

“Nothing is going to happen to me,” Aria says pulling Yolanda into a hug.

***

Liam buttons his tux jacket as he descends the stairs and steps onto the first floor, his mother swiftly walking over to him, and grabbing his arm pulling him to the side.

“You are disgracing the family name.”

“Excuse me?” Liam says shocked by her words.

“I saw you with that little gold digging harlot, groping each other on the balcony and doing god knows what on the second floor. She is beneath you Liam. Sure she may be intoxicating for a brief time. But let’s be honest, she is not Whitmore material.”

Aria and Yolanda stand frozen at the bottom of the stairs.

Liam notices as his face falls.

“Wow. You don’t even know me. But sad to say, I’ve known types like you my whole life. Don’t worry your family legacy is safe.” Aria says grabbing her cousin’s hand and walking off.

“Aria,” Liam says reaching for her, as his mother grabs his arm and pulls him back, as photographers gather to take a picture of the two Whitmores in action.

“Let her go love, she’s not worth it,” she says smiling through clenched teeth.

“You know what mum, Sky is right about, you’re a monster,” he says ripping his arm out of her grasp and rushing off after Aria.

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My 2019 Projects Update

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

List of Projects

(I want to finish this year)

Move -MLW Short Story Series

MOVE poster

This series first premiered on MLW June of 2017. And there are currently 13 Chapters posted. But I haven’t updated since January of 2018. So it’s been quite a while. LONGEST HIATUS EVER! I just recently gathered my notes on this project, and re-read all the chapters. I am working on Chapter 14 and Liam and Aria’s loves story will continue soon, I PROMISE! This is my priority project!

Start from the beginning- Read Chapter 1- HERE

Summary: Liam Whitmore is a wealthy business executive who goes through the motions of working in his corporate world day after lousy day, making deals and kicking ass at it. However he often feels uninspired, and unable to do what he really loves. Until one day he meets a younger woman named Aria Lenz, struggling to become a dancer. Her simplistic yet driven nature strikes up a spark of inspiration in him, and he makes it his mission to get to know her. Little does he know, it’ll be the hardest “transaction” he’s ever had to make. They’re worlds apart- will he finally get through to her, or will his fire fizzle?

Crazy Stalker Love– MLW Short Story Series- COMING SOON!

This was a story I thought of during the fall of 2018 and it is partially written and saved on my computer but needs some serious love. I did announce it on the blog, that this was coming. I think it will be featured on MLW after “Move” wraps. It needs to be finished and put into Chapters. 

Summary: Henley Hendrix is a badass who doesn’t let anyone tell her what to do. She has always had an intense and complicated history with her ex boyfriend Hunter Stone. Some may even go as far to say, that his love for her has always exceeded any normal standard. They have a painful past that she just can’t seem to get over, but she also can’t seem to let him go either. While selfishly hanging onto their intimacy, in the mist of her on again/off again relationship with Hunter, Henley starts seeing a new, dark, mysterious Mr. Perfect. But everything isn’t always as it seems to be. *There are a bunch of other interesting characters that get thrown along for the ride too. 

NaNoWriMo Project loosely Titled “Afire Love”

1_9OvMU-j-y_KnJvbn9r6kYA[1]

Summary: Sadie Sullivan has always been a romantic at heart. But she always plays it safe. Err on the side of caution, is practically her motto. After all, you can’t fail, if you don’t take any risks right? But what happens when a handsome acquaintance challenges her to face her biggest fear of all…falling in love?

On my instagram, I gave daily NaNo updates, and I shared some Sneak Peeks of my book on there throughout the month of November 2018. I also gave a hint that my two characters face a similar struggle these two characters faced in General Hospital. 

c0298e51fd987115e080ea527c2002a2--julie-marie-berman-emmy-nominees[1]

Dante & Lulu (GH) They faced quite a number of struggles so which one do you think I am referring to? 

This book needs to be finished, edited ALOT, and formatted. But I past my 50,000 NaNo word count! So that’s a plus!

Television Pilot

I have been writing scenes for this show since I was in high school, which for a time frame, has been over a decade. I have notebooks, and loose papers, and saved documents all over the place. I started to work on the pilot episode back when I said I would, but the world I’ve created in my mind has become so big, that I can literllay see seasons of stories unfolding. So to narrow down the lives of these characters to the very beginning, has just proven to be quite hard. Last Update.

I will not give away much on this. This is a big one. But I will give you a sneak peek of a mock poster I made with my #dreamcast. I totally know all these pictures are old. This is just who I imagine my characters to look like. 🙂 [Sorry the title is a secret for now! Have to keep some secrets!]

fake-promo-poster-censor.jpg

Tori Kelly, Bruno Mars, Kris Allen, Demi Lovato, Katelyn Pippy, Joshua Jackson

Special Self Publishing Project– not going to give away the title but let’s just say I’ve been writing it for the past 6 years and probably long before that too. I will just give you a little tiny hint-  Faceless Man. 

love+letters[1]

As you can see I have quite a few projects on my mind. They tangle up and I just don’t know where to start. And then I get another new idea and start writing that, and then I stop and get distracted and thrown off track of writing anything all together. It’s definitely overwhelming. But my goal is to finish all of these projects by the end of this year. I need to learn to finish what I start. I need to get my stories out of my mind and onto paper and into the world. It’s the only way these characters are going to leave me alone. 😉

 

Wish me luck and a bit of magic!

 

To my fellow writers out there,

how do you start what you finish/deal with balancing multiple projects?

 

*I do not take credit for any images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

 

Move- Chapter 13

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 12 HERE

“So listen these events are usually incredibly boring…but we usually raise a lot of money for the children’s charity. So please, just…behave…and try not to make any spectacles of yourselves,” Yolanda says sternly to both Layla and Aria.

“Yoyo, relax, we’ll be the perfect dates, girl scouts honor,” Layla says as she holds up her fingers.

Yolanda makes a face, “It’s not you I’m worried about.”

Aria laughs, “What does that mean?” she asks her hands finding her hips as she gives her cousin some attitude.

“Don’t think, I don’t know why you REALLY came tonight.” Yolanda says opening the door to the event.

“I’m slightly lost here,” Layla says her eyes darting from her sister to her cousin as they walk into the lobby of the hotel hosting the event.

“Liam Whitmore…he’s the main sponsor.”

“Oh that’s right! Where have I been?” Layla says her brows furrow. “Oh this night just got good.” She adds, smiling excitedly.

“Hey, I can be professional.”

Yolanda huffs.

“I can.” Aria argues.

Yolanda and Aria exchange semi-angry glares.

“Ok seriously we promise, we’ll behave,” Layla says allowing her serious face to shine through in order to lessen her sister’s nerves, she ushers them into the ballroom. “Come, come,” she says with a giggle. 

Yolanda, Layla and Aria waltz gracefully through the large gold doors to find the room decorated in crystals and glitter, tall white feathers in vases on each table, silk silver table clothes, and white silk chair covers.

 “Wow, Yolanda, this place looks incredible,” Aria says, her long, fitted, strapless, black gown trailing behind her as her hips sway.

“Thank you very much,” Yolanda says smiling as she looks around, nodding with approval.

“Great job, Sis!” Layla says smiling as she pulls her into a hug.

“Ok well excuse me, I have to just go double check a few things, you guys can take a look around and admire my work some more, (she says smiling and starting to walk off) Don’t get into trouble while I’m gone,” she adds sternly as she points her finger at them with accusation.

“There’s practically no one even here yet, what trouble could we possibly get into?” Aria says shaking her head as she looks up seeing Liam step out of another room off to the back of the ballroom. His eyes find her instantly as they lock onto hers, a smirk forming on his lips.

Layla notices, “You were saying?” she says looking over at Aria with curious eyes.

“I’ll be right back,” Aria says floating off toward him, her eyes not moving off him.

Layla laughs and sits at a nearby table, to watch.

Suddenly a waiter comes over with a tray of glasses filled with champagne, “Ma’am” he says in an asking tone.

“Oh, yes. Why, thank you,” she says smiling and taking one, her eyes sparklingly at his smiling face. His dimples showing.

***

“Hello, Mr. Whitmore,” Aria says very professionally.

He smirks.

“Do I have to curtsy?” she says laughing.

“Ha ha, very funny, love,” he says with a chuckle.

“Sorry I couldn’t help it, you look so… official,” she says with small laugh, placing her hands on her hips as she shrugs her shoulders a little bit.

“Well you look…” (he pauses letting his eyes wander, his stare creating some heat.)

“Liam…”Aria says shifting nervously, “get there faster,” she says her cheeks beginning to blush.

“Breathtaking.” He says his eyes shooting up to meet hers.

Aria smiles, her heart pounding.

“Thank you, you look quite…dashing yourself,” she says laughing.

“Thank you,” he chuckles.

Aria stands there suddenly unknowing of her next move.

Liam smiles at her, leaning in he whispers, “So would it be too forward of me to hope that you’ll stay with me again tonight?”

Aria smiles and looks up at him, “I would love to, but-“

Liam pouts.

Aria laughs, “I don’t think that’s the best idea- for us, right now, considering what happened last night and this morning…or should I say what almost happened.”

“Fair enough, love,” he says smiling politely, but obviously saddened.

“I’m sorry,” Aria says her heart breaking.

“Don’t be. I understand. Completely.” He says smiling as he takes her hand, he lifts it to his lips, placing a kiss on it.

Aria’s smile brightens as her eyes glisten with admiration looking at the man before her.

In walks an older, silver haired woman, her wrinkles real, but perfected as odd as that may seem. Jewels dress her neck, ears, wrists and fingers, a royal blue satin gown to accompany them. Her face frozen in bitch mode, beady little eyes landing on Liam as he kisses Aria’s hand his eyes flickering a certain look she’s never quite witnessed before.
Her eyes narrow, as she barks at a nearby waiter to get her a martini-dry.

Liam whispers to Aria, “Sneak away with me for a bit, later?”

Aria smiles, “I’m supposed to behave tonight, I promised my cousin I wouldn’t start any trouble.”

“Well then, love you should’ve worn a different dress,” he says smirking.

Aria rolls her eyes with a laugh.

“After my speech, meet me on the second floor balcony? It’s usually vacant.”

Aria nods.

Suddenly Liam stills, feeling her presence, he turns seeing her watching him.

“Liam, darling!” she yells waltzing toward them.

Liam’s face pales, Aria notices.

“Are you ok?” she asks taking one of his hands.

“Um Aria love, I will catch up with you a little later, ok?”

“Oh. Oh ok, yea,” she says confused as Liam darts off to meet the silver haired dragon. As her eyes watch him she makes her way back toward the table where Layla sits chatting up the cute waiter.

***

“Mum. Hello, how are you?” he says kissing her on the cheek and turning, walking her away from Aria.

“Who was that woman you were just fawning all over in public none the less!” she says her voice shrill.

“I was not fawning mother, she’s a good friend.” He says trying to stop her from interfering in his love life.

“Didn’t seem friendly to me.”

“Mother.”

“She’s quite curvy, that one, and what is she wearing, an off the rack?”

“Mother.”

“You know, I ran into Laura Lynn, the other day.”

Liam’s face falls, his skin beginning to boil.

“Did you mum, or did you happen to seek her out, since you were just so fond of her, despite what she did to me.”

“I beg your pardon, how dare you speak to me that way.”

“My apologies. Please excuse me, I’m quite nervous about my speech.”

“That must be it. My Liam never disobeys his dear ole mum,” she says with a petty pursed lipped pout and evil sparkling eyes.

Liam gives her a small smile, as he places a kiss on her cheek, he walks swiftly off toward the first floor balcony for some air.

Aria follows to find him standing gazing out at the skyline.

 

***

Aria places her hand on his back, he tenses.

“Hey,” she says her voice soft. “Is everything okay?”

Liam relaxes as he turns, “Ah, it’s you love, thank god,” he says smiling at her.

“What, did you think I was the silver haired dragon lady?” she says with a laugh.

Liam smiles small, “That silver dragon lady would be my mum.”

“Oh, oh my god, I’m so sorry.” She says mortified.

Liam laughs grabbing her by the waist and pulling her in toward him.

“That’s quite alright love, my own sister has called her worse,” he says looking down at her as she covers her face burying it in his chest in shame.

“Still. I’m sorry, that was rude of me. Of course she’s your mother. I should have guessed and just kept my comments to myself.”

Liam cups her face, lifting her chin with his thumb, he leans in, kissing her.

Aria’s eyes flutter closed as she begins to fall into his embrace, her arms circling around his neck, as Liam’s tightens his grip on her waist.

“Wow. Did I ever tell you, you can really kiss,” she whispers looking up at him through heavy eyelids.

“That’s not all I can do, love,” he whispers closing the distance between them once again as he leans into her, cornering her against the balcony railing, as his hands tighten around her once again.

Gertrude Whitmore catching a glimpse of her son’s indiscretion, her stern expression revealing she highly disapproves, as she begins walking swiftly toward the opened white framed glass doors.

Yolanda notices and slides into her path quickly, saving the day on the fly, “Mrs. Whitmore! Hello, I’m Yolanda Lenz, part of the planning committee for the event, it’s so lovely to meet you, why don’t I help you find your seat and get you another martini?”

Startled but oddly charmed by Yolanda’s abrupt kindness, she’s swayed away.

 

***

Finally parting their lips, Aria and Liam stare into each other’s eyes waiting for each other to make the next move.

Liam’s glare, intense, smoldering. Aria feels her knees buckle under the pressure.

“Whoa,” he says grabbing her, “Steady love,” he says with a smirk.

“That’s not so easy for me when I’m around you.” She says nervously giggling and adverting her eyes from his intense glare.

Liam sighs, kissing her again, not wanting to stop their private encounter.

Aria gently pushes him away, “We should really get back to the party…I’m sure people are looking for you,” she says glancing over his shoulder and noticing the room beginning to fill.

“The only one I want is right here.” He whispers leaning in once again.

“Liam. I promised my cousin, I wouldn’t cause any problems for her. And something tells me she wouldn’t love it if I kept the sponsor from fulfilling his rightful duties.” Aria says placing her hand on his chest, stopping him from another kiss.

“Understood,” he says releasing her from his grip and backing away. “Enjoy your night, love.”

“You too.” She says smiling.

Liam smiles at her and turns to walk back into the party now filled with many fancy dressed, wealthy guests.

“Oh! And good luck with your speech, if you get nervous you know what they say, just picture the audience in their underwear.” She says laughing.

Liam smirks, turning, “Trust me, thanks to you and that dress, I’m already there.”

Aria blushes, looking away.

“2nd floor balcony, in less than 1 hour.” He says looking at her, expectantly.

Aria nods, “2nd floor balcony.”

Liam winks as he walks back into the party, immediately being greeted by handshakes from business men. Flashes snapping and popping as photographers hustle around for the perfect shot. Suddenly Aria is very aware of Liam’s social status. 

Yolanda rushes over to her, “Are you kidding me? I asked you ONE thing!”

“I know I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to, we were just talking, and then he kissed me, and kept saying all these sexy things. God, he’s sexy. It wasn’t my fault. Blame him.”

“HE is not MY cousin. You are.”

“I’m sorry. But it wasn’t like anyone saw us.” Aria says pouting.

“See that’s where you’re wrong, his mother definitely saw her son groping you out here.

She was on her way to reprimand you when I intervened and managed to distract her.”

“My hero.” Aria says smiling.

“Don’t be cute, I’m mad at you, seriously Aria.”

“I’m sorry, I will be better, I promise.”

“Promise?”

“I promise. I promise, when we meet up later, Liam and I will be more discreet about where we make out.” Aria says smiling.

“I hate you, you are so annoying,” Yolanda says smiling, “but I like seeing you so happy.”

“Thank you,” Aria says hugging her.

Yolanda rolls her eyes, “Come on, let’s get back in there before Layla drinks her weight in champagne just so she can keep talking to the cute waiter with the dimples.”

“Oh gosh, you can’t take us anywhere,” Aria says laughing, as she and Yolanda enter back into the ballroom, arms linked.

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

Move- Chapter 12

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

I know I know, I did it again…the dreaded hiatus. It happens. What are ya gonna do. 😉 

We’re Back though…so get ready for some new Liam & Aria Romance Drama! 

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 11 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

A black sleek car pulls up to Whitmore Ink, and comes to a stop.

Aria gets out of the car, as Liam steps out of the other side walking around to meet her.

“So, I’ll see you at lunch?” he says taking her hands in his and bringing them up to his lips, he places a kiss on them.

“Yes, I have a break between Zumba sessions so… definitely,” she says smiling up at him as he places a kiss on her lips. “I had a really nice time.”

“Me too,” he says smiling brightly. “I’ll see you in a bit love,” he says beginning to walk away.

Aria grabs his hand, causing him to stop and turn back.

“Liam, I just wanted to say I’m sorry about earlier. To be quite honest, I just wasn’t letting myself think clearly. I wasn’t expecting to have this insane connection to you. I know my putting the brakes on us, while also throwing myself at you, was probably really confusing. I just saw how fast things were moving and we barely know each other… I don’t even know if I’m making any sense. You must think I’m such a tease.”

“I think you’re perfect.” He says walking over to her and lifting her chin, placing a sweet peck on her lips.

Aria laughs, “Oh I’m far from it, trust me.”

“Not from where I’m standing, love,” he says letting his eyes give her a very obvious once over, he smirks.

“Ugh that look is going to get us into trouble,” she whispers, pulling him by his collar into a deep kiss.
Pulling away their eyes lock.

“So about that dinner date…” she says smiling, he smirks as he places a kiss on her cheek.

“Tonight?” he asks.

“Pick me up at 8,” she says her smile sparkling as she walks away toward her gym, reaching for her cell phone in her pocket.

Liam’s gaze lingers after her as a smile forms on his lips, he enters the corporate building, with Aria on his mind.

 ***

“Hello?” Yolanda answers as she grabs her work bag, dressed in a pair of light blue scrubs.

“Hey Yoyo,” Aria says her voice smiling.

“Oh thank god, your alive!” she says exhaling.

“I’m fine, I told you, he’s a good guy.”

“Yea well you can’t blame me for worrying, there are crazy people in this world.”

“I know…thank you for always watching out for me.”

“Of course. So how was last night, did you keep things…reserved?”

“Slightly,” she says a girly giggle in her tone.

“Oh boy,” Yolanda says as she puts her jacket on, and heads out the door. 

“We still didn’t do anything…”

“You know what… it’s none of my business.”

“Yolanda don’t be that way! I’m serious nothing happened. I mean it could have happened, it was really close to happening, but it didn’t.”

“I just hope that you know what your doing.”

“Yolanda.”

“I’m serious Aria. As great of a guy as he seems, you are moving into this thing way too quick. What happened to not having time for a boyfriend because of your showcase? And yet in a matter of a few weeks you meet this guy and all of that goes out the window.”

“I’m still working on my showcase, Yoyo. I won’t let this interfere with something I’ve been working toward for so long.”

“I hope so.”

“Yolanda…”

“Look I gotta go, don’t forget the hospital fundraiser I’m hosting is tonight, it starts at 8, your coming right?”

Aria stops walking as she remembers. “Oh…um…yes, of course. Yes I’ll be there.”

“You forgot didn’t you? I told you about this months ago.”

“I know, I know and I will be there. I promise.”

“Ok, good. I’ll see you later then, bye.”

“Bye.” Aria sighs as she walks into the gym for her first Zumba lesson of the day. 

***

A bunch of empty Styrofoam containers and napkins get pushed off a desk and fall onto the floor.

Aria laughs as Liam lifts her up onto his desk, his lips covering hers.

“I’m pretty sure your staff is wondering why I’m still coming here even though I don’t work here anymore,” Aria says laughing against his smirk.

“And it’s none of their business, love,” he says pulling her closer to him. 

Aria kisses him, cupping his face.

“So listen- about tonight, I-“

“Oh yes, love, I need to talk to you about that too.” 

“I’m going to have to take a rain check,” they both say in unison followed by a few laughs.

“I just realized, I promised my cousin I’d go with her to this fundraiser at her hospital. It’s really important to her, and I want to be there for her.”

Liam laughs, “I’ll be there as well, love.”

Aria looks at him confused for a beat. 

“I go every year. But something tells me, this has to be your first? Because I know I would have noticed you, love.”

Aria laughs, “This will be my first, my cousin is part of the planning committee this year. You know now that you mention it she did say you usually sponsor the event.”

“Hmm, I guess we’ll end up seeing each other tonight after all, love,” he says his eyes locking on hers as he moves in closer to her.

“Lucky us,” Aria says her eyes sparkling. 

“Lucky me,” he says kissing her passionately. 

His cell phone begins to ring, as he takes it out of his pocket, the name “Mum” flashing across the screen. 

Liam stops and hesitates.

Aria looks up at him, “Do you need to get that?” she says her eyes glazing over to his phone.

“It’s my Mum, if I don’t answer, I’ll never hear the end of it.”

“Oh. Ok,” Aria says sliding off the table.

“I’m sorry love,” he says placing a peck on her lips, as he answers his phone.

Aria sits there, slightly awkward, as Liam walks off to the side.

Aria straightens her clothes out, and fixes her lip-gloss, as Liam continues to talk business and numbers with his mother.

Waving her hand at Liam, mouthing the words, “I’m gonna go,” Aria stands by the door, feeling uncomfortable.  

Liam notices, and frowns, “Mum, hold on one moment please…” he says putting his phone down, and rushing over to Aria, “I’m sorry love, I -“

“It’s ok,” she says smiling.

“I’ll see you tonight?”

“Yes you will,” she says as he kisses her, cupping his face Aria deepens their kiss, as his hands circle around her waist. 

Aria smiles as she wipes his lips with her thumb, removing her lip-gloss from his lips, as he chuckles.

While she leaves his office, Liam’s eyes follow her, a smile playing on his lips.

Aria waves at a smiling Anne and a very intrigued Marco who’s eyes dart between Aria’s retreating figure and Liam’s closing door. 

Liam picks up his phone, “Hello Mum,”

“Who were you talking to, it sounded like a woman.”

“It was a woman Mum, I do work with women.”

“It sounded like a personal conversation…are you seeing someone and lying to your dear ole Mum about it.”

“Mum, I have to jump into a meeting right now, I’ll see you later at the event…love you, bye.”

Liam rushes off the phone as he releases a sigh. A smile forming as he touches his lips, thinking of Aria, his eyes glancing over his mess of an office. 

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

Move- Chapter 10

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 9 HERE

Aria and Liam burst into Liam’s place, kissing, as they bump into a nearby potted plant, knocking it over. It shatters, but doesn’t make them miss a beat.

Liam’s hands cupping her face, deepening each kiss as Aria pushes the door shut.

Reaching for his jacket, she maneuvers it off as it falls to the floor. Liam’s hands circle her waist, but stay put as Aria reaches for his tie- loosening it and tossing it off.

“Aria?” he whispers.

“Shh, we’ve had this date with each other from the beginning,” she says smiling as she covers his lips with hers again, starting to unbutton his crisp white shirt.

Hitting a tough button, Aria breaks their kiss. Sighing in frustration, she rips the shirt open, buttons flying everywhere.

“Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry, this was probably so expensive,” she says looking around on the floor.

Liam pulls her back to him, “Do I look upset,” he says kissing her.

She laughs against his lips as her hands stroke his chest.

Aria pulls away to look up at him, for a beat, his kind eyes stare back waiting for her move.

She smiles, as she un-clips her black wrap around dress letting it fall open.

Liam’s eyes glance over her toned figure, as her lacey black lingerie set hugs her curves perfectly.

He lets out the breath he’s been holding in since he met her, “Wow,” he says coughing shyly looking away, as Aria looks after him with a small shy laugh.

Liam pulls her to him, placing a sweet, yet intense kiss on her lips, but soon pulling away he cups her face, staring at her.

“As much as I want to do this love, I don’t think it’s the best order of events.”

Aria looks up at him, confused, stepping back, and away from him.

Liam sighs.

“Please don’t miss understand. I like you. I really really like you. And I want this. I want you, so much that I don’t want to jeopardize it by moving too fast too quick. So before we let this go this far, I’d like to at least take you to dinner first,” he says smiling.

Aria sighs and starts laughing as she closes her dress and refastens it.

“Oh, right. Of course, that makes sense,” she says smiling. “I’m sorry I was pretty aggressive there,” she says with a laugh. “I’m sorry if I came on too strong.”

“Trust me love, I didn’t mind,” he says grinning down at her. “I was quite unprofessional with you from the start,” he smirks sheepishly.

“I wouldn’t say that,” Aria looks at him as they make their way to the kitchen.

“What would you say?”

“I would say that…we both probably….maybe…sort of…knew there was a spark there when we first met and then the universe kind of just kept throwing us together- it was hard to deny it.”

Liam looks at her and laughs.

“What?”

“I may have orchestrated a few of those run-ins we had.”

Aria looks up at him in shock.

“Wait…what? How?”

“I may have kept tabs on you.”

Aria gasps, “Wait…Did you Facebook stalk me?”

“More than I’d like to admit,” he says avoiding her eyes, as he grabs a few things from the fridge. Aria sits across from him at his kitchen island.

“Oh my gosh, well, now I’m flattered,” she says laughing as her cheeks blush.

“Really your not creeped out?” he says laughing as he begins chopping some vegetables.

“Well…that depends,” she says smiling.

“On?”

“On how many of these run-ins you actually orchestrated?”

“Oh boy…”

“All of them?”

“No…but most.”

“Which ones, come on, I need specifics here.”

“And let you think that we are anything but fate in human form, no thank you love.” he says smirking.

Aria walks over to him, coming up behind him, she circles her arms around him, her hands on his chest. 

Liam laughs.

“Please,” she says kissing his shoulder.

Liam turns in her arms and cups her face, “You fight dirty,” he says smirking.

Aria laughs, reaching up to kiss him, he accepts it with a smile.

“Fine, don’t tell me,” she laughs, kissing him once more, she walks away from him. “I really should be going, anyway.”

Liam looks after her, “Aria.”

Aria turns, “Would you like to join me for dinner?”

She smiles at him, “I would love to but I have a class to teach tonight and then I really need to get to the studio and work on my routine.”

Liam nods his understanding, but she can tell the sadness on his face.

“What about lunch tomorrow? I can come by the office.”

Liam smiles, “That would be perfect.”

“Ok I will see you tomorrow, then,” she leans over and gives him a kiss. “Bye,” she smiles and begins walking toward the door.

“Don’t worry I’ll tell Marco you say bye,” he says walking after her with a smirk playing on his lips.

Aria turns around, “Oh, ok,” she says laughing, “So your the jealous type?”

Liam walks over to her, his arms circling her waist.

“Only when it comes to you,” he says looking at her deeply.

Aria pulls him into a long kiss.

“Stay,” he whispers pleading with her.

“I can’t,” she says frowning, “I’ll see you tomorrow,” she places a quick peck on his lips and walks away.

Liam grabs her hand pulling her back to him, as he kisses her again, his feelings for her pouring out of him.

Aria looks up at him, her head in a fog for a beat.

“My driver is downstairs, let him take you.”

“No that’s really ok, I-“

Liam kisses her again, as Aria’s response is cut short.

“Ok,” she says looking up at him with a laugh.

He laughs, and opens up the door for her.

Grabbing her bag she walks out, and turns to face him.

“I had a really nice time,” she says smiling at him.

“Me too, love,” he says smiling brightly.

Aria waves and walks off.

Liam shuts the door, starring at it for a beat. He smiles to himself as he exhales deeply, running his hand through his hair. He walks back to his kitchen to continue making dinner.

***

Aria steps out of Liam’s black sleek car, and walks into the Gym.

Upon entering the locker room, she’s bombarded by questions from her girl squad.

“Where the hell have you been?” Yolanda says quickly with worry.

“Yoyo, I’m fine. I’m sorry, I got caught up.”

Molly and Allie exchange looks.

“Your still in your work clothes…” Molly says.

“I know, I have to change,” she says grabbing her work out clothes from her gym bag and un-doing her dress.

“Well well isn’t that set a little sexy for the work place, were you looking for a certain someone to see it?” Molly says coyly.

Aria laughs as she pulls on her clothes.

“Let’s just say I didn’t have to hope at all, it kind of just happened,” she smirks throws her stuff into her locker and closes it, walking off.

The four girls all look at each other, their mouths open as they rush after her into the gym.

The gym is already full of excited ladies ready to work out.

“I’m sorry WHAT?” Allie says excitedly.

“Did you guys have sex? Oh my gosh was it amazing? Is he like ya know…?” Molly says rambling.

“Oh ew,” Layla says her younger age showing.

Yolanda looks worried, “Please tell me you were safe?”

“Of course we were,” Aria says spinning around.

The girls all freeze.

“Because we didn’t have sex.”

Yolanda sighs of relief, “So where were you?”

“Aw, let down,” Molly says under her breath.

“I was with Liam and don’t get me wrong, we were well on our way to…but then he put the brakes on.”

“Wait I’m sorry HE stopped you?” Allie says.

“Yea, he said that he didn’t want to rush things.”

“Is he some kind of male robot, or something, because I feel like that never happens. If a guy gets a girl willing to have sex with him, he’s having sex with her. Case closed,” Molly says.

“Ok not every guy is like that,” Allie says.

“Oh please your only saying that cause your boyfriend Colin is as perfect as they come.”

“Maybe,” Allie says smiling.

“Liam is different too, I can tell. He’s a man, not a guy, not a boy. He’s a man, he knows what he wants.”

“And apparently, that’s you,” Molly says smiling.

“Oh so it’s back to Liam now,” Layla says laughing.

“Well considering I don’t work for him anymore…yea,” she says smiling.

“Wait when you text us to meet you here, I just assumed you were filling in again, did they offer you a full time position?” Allie asks excitedly.

“Yes!”

“Wooo! Yes girl! Congrats!” she says hugging her as all the girls join in.

“Ok, I really gotta get this class started, full details later” she says smiling, standing at the front of the class, pressing play on the radio.

As the music bursts through the room, bouncing off the walls, Aria begins doing the moves and calling them out as her class follows enthusiastically.

***

Liam finishes loading his dish washer and closes it, looks down at his floor and sees all the buttons scattered. He has a flashback of he and Aria during their intense moment and lets out a laugh, grabbing a broom, he begins to sweep them up.

***

Aria exits the gym, girls in tote.

“Guys, I really have to get to the studio to practice,” she says walking to the street and holding up her hand to hail a cab.

“Um hello you promised us details,” Allie says.

“And you will get them, just not now,” she says laughing.

“Your gonna make us wait?” Molly says whining.

“I will call you later and fill you all in, I promise,” she says walking over to give each of them a hug as a cab pulls up.

Aria gets to Yolanda and sees the worry etched in her facial features.

“Yoyo I’m fine. Nothing happened. And even if it would have happened, I know what I have to do to keep myself safe, ok. You don’t have to worry about me.”

“Ugh yes I do,” she says hugging her. “Don’t make it too late.”

“I won’t, bye girls,” she says getting in the cab.

***

Aria’s body is sweating as she finishes her routine she looks in the mirror and smiles.

“We’re getting there,” she says to herself.

Her phone lights up and she walks over to check it, taking a sip of water.

She opens her Facebook app and sees Molly tagged her in a picture, the caption reading… “Work it girl.” #BESTZumbaInstructorAround #TakeHerClass #FullTimeInstructor

Aria looks at the picture, her body shining, fierce expression and a perfect view of her curves.

Aria smiles as she screen shots it and types out a message.

***

Liam stands at his canvas painting, his cell phone goes off. He smirks when he sees the message is from Aria- the same post from Molly with an added message that reads- “Just in case you didn’t see it on Facebook, here’s how my class went.”

He smirks looks over the picture, and sends a text back that reads-

That’s one hell of a view, love.

***

Aria reads it and blushes, responding-

I miss you. Is that weird to say?

***

Liam smiles, responding-

Well if it is, then I guess we’re both weirdos.

***

Aria smiles and dials Liam’s number.

He smiles seeing her name flash across his screen.

“Hello?”

“Is that your way of saying you miss me too.”

“Well, nothing gets by you, love.”

Aria laughs.

“How’s the rehearsing going?”

“Good, I should be wrapping up and heading home soon. I think I’m actually making some progress.”

“That’s fantastic.” (he pauses, thinking)

“Liam are you still there?”

“Come here.”

“What?” she says confused.

“My driver can be there to get you in 15 minutes, come back here, spend the night with me.”

“I thought we agreed that maybe we were moving too fast.”

“We don’t have to do anything. I just- I’d really like to spend more time with you. It’d be nice to fall asleep with you in my arms.”

Aria sighs, her smile bright.

“15 minutes, huh?”

“I’ll see you soon, love.” he says smiling as he hangs up.

Aria looks at her phone, her heart beating quickly.

She dials another number.

“Hello?”

“Yoyo, I have to tell you something. And you can’t freak out.”

“What?”

“I’m spending the night at Liam’s.”

“Aria…”

“I said not to freak out!”

“I’m not freaking out, I just feel like you say one thing and do another. You barely know this guy.”

“I know that. But it doesn’t feel that way. I feel like he’s been meant for me my whole life. We just fit. It just feels natural.”

“Aria are you sure about this?”

“I’m positive, I feel safe with him,”

“Fine. Your a grown woman, but you keep your phone on, and you let me know when you get there and you come home early tomorrow morning. I’m talking sun up, so are you. Please can you do that and save my sanity?”

“Yes of course. I love you yoyo.”

“I love you too, you pain in my ass. Please please please BE SAFE.”

“Nothings going to happen. I’m just going to spend time with him.”

“Right.”

“I’m serious. He’s not like that.”

“I hope your right, because if I don’t hear from you, I’m calling the cops on his ass!”

“Deal.” Aria says laughing. “And yo, can you just do me one favor…”

“Oh you are pushing it now, babe.”

“I’m sorry. I know.”

“What is it?” Yolanda says sighing and rolling her eyes as she stands folding clothes at home.

“Just please tell the girls, I’ll have to explain everything tomorrow.”

“Fine, but you owe us.”

“Dinner on me,” she says smiling and hanging up, a text from Liam pops up-

Car’s outside. Can’t wait to see you.

Aria smiles brightly rushing out.

***

Aria steps onto Liam’s penthouse floor and sees him waiting at the door with a bright smile on his face.

She smiles.

“Hello love.”

“Hi,” she says kissing him. “I’m sorry I’m a sweaty mess, I must look gross,” she says laughing.

“You could never,” he says cupping her face and kissing her again.

He takes her hand and leads her in.

“I’m really glad your here.” he says smiling at her.

“Me too.”

“Are you hungry?”

“I’m starving,” she laughs

“Let me heat you up some leftovers.” he says walking to the kitchen.

“Um, do you mind if I take a quick shower?”

“No of course not, do you need any clothes to change into?”

“Um no I keep some extras with me at the gym so just point me toward the bathroom and I’m good.”

Liam smiles and leads the way.

Aria walks into his crisp white porcelain bathroom, the shower is huge and it just glistens with cleanliness.

“Now this is a bathroom!” she says seeing it.

Liam laughs.

“Towels are in the cabinet over there, and soap and everything is in that one.”

“Thank you,” she says smiling, “I’ll be quick.”

“Take your time, I’ll go heat up that food.”

“Thank you,” she whispers, standing on her tippy toes and kissing him.

Liam walks out as Aria closes the door, she reaches for her cellphone-

“Hello? Hey Yoyo I’m here, I’m alive. Don’t worry. Ok? (she laughs) I love you, good night.”

Liam overhears and laughs.

***

Aria emerges from the bathroom all clean and cozy in a long sleeved thin hoodie and leggings, her hair long and damp.

Liam smiles as he places a plate of food on the table for her.

Aria sits.

“Wow this looks amazing, I didn’t know you cook, but of course you cook,” she says shaking her head with a smile.

Why are you so perfect, she thinks.

“Taste it first” he says with a laugh.

Aria takes a bite, “Oh my god,” she says closing her eyes. “This is amazing.”

“Yea?”

“So good, what is it?”

“It’s grilled chicken in a red wine sauce, my sister makes it even better.”

“Mmm, how is Sky, I didn’t see her at the gym tonight,” Aria says taking another bite.

“She’s good, she had a gig with her band. But I did tell her how you are teaching Zumba full time, it enlisted quite the squeal. I’d say she’s looking forward to it.” he says smiling as he leans across from her.

Aria laughs, “She’s a really sweet girl, I’m happy I got to meet her.”

“Me too, she’s probably the only sane person in my family.”

“Oh boy!” Aria says laughing.

“Do you want a glass of wine with that?” Liam asks.

“Sure, thank you.”

Liam walks to the cabinet pulling two glasses and sets to pouring the wine. He hands her a glass, with the company of a big smile.

“What?” Aria asks.

“Cheers to us,” he says clinking his glass into hers.

“Cheers to us,” she repeats taking a sip, a smile playing on her lips.

***

Liam and Aria sit on the couch, his arm draped over her and her body snuggled into his as the tv hums in the background.

Liam looks over at her, and she notices.

“What?”

“I just can’t believe your here,” he says sheepishly, his arm pulling her tighter into him.

“Aw,” she says smiling as she nuzzles closer to him. “There’s no where else I’d rather be,” she says kissing his cheek.

Liam looks at her lovingly, cups her face, and places a sweet kiss on her lips.

The two part and stare at each other for a beat, before simultaneously diving into another, more heated kiss.

Aria leans back on the couch, pulling Liam with her, and they continue to kiss, her legs and arms wrapping around him.

“I thought we said we wouldn’t do this,” he says in between kisses, his voice breathy.

“We’re not, we’re just kissing, that’s allowed right?” she says before placing another kiss on his lips.

“I like the way you think,” he says kissing her back.

“Yea?”

“Yea, I can kiss you all night.”

Aria smiles pulling him back to her lips as one of his hands cradle her head and one circles her waist, their lips barely parting for long.

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or other wise.*

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Move- Chapter 9

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 8 HERE

Meet Marco

 

Aria walks into work and sits at her desk, Marco smirks and walks over.

“Good Morning,” he says handing her a cup of coffee.

Aria smiles, “Oh. Thank you.”

Marco watches her as she sits at her desk settling in for her day’s work.

Liam emerges from his office with a to go cup of coffee in his hand, he notices Aria sipping on one already and turns swiftly placing it back in his office, upon turning back around he catches Marco’s eyes on Aria.

He cocks his head slightly and coughs.

Marco’s head shoots up.

“Morning Boss,” he says finding his seat quickly.

“Morning,” Liam says rather short.

Aria suddenly stills upon hearing his voice. She feels uncomfortable, she’s never seen anyone be afraid of Liam let alone Liam be short with anyone. Not knowing whether to turn around and make eye contact with him or not. Has she done something to offend him?

“Aria, Good Morning,” he says his tone different. Happy. His eyes wanting and waiting to see the flicker of gold reflected in her chocolate brown eyes.

An internal sigh of relief, the tension falling, Aria turns in her seat with a smile.

“Good Morning, Mr. Whitmore,” she says.

Liam notices she’s wearing a fitted black dress. Although work appropriate, she’s showing the slightest bit on cleavage, which was just enough to drive Liam crazy.

“Is there anything specific you’d like me to work on today, or is it just the usual?”

He goes blank for a second as his eyes say glued to her.

Aria notices and looks away slightly nervous.

Liam snaps back to reality, “I’m sorry what was that?” he asks mentally kicking himself for losing his control around her.

“Is there anything specific you’d like me to work on today?”

“Um oh, yes I have a meeting today with one of the artists we spoke with yesterday. I’d love for you to come along, if that’s something your interested in?” he asks hopeful to be able to spend some time alone with her outside the office.

“I would love to, yes, thank you.”

“Great, I figured since you were the one who she spoke with mostly, having you there would be wildly beneficial.”

“Sounds perfect, what time should I be ready for?”

“We’ll take her to coffee, so let’s say around 3:30?”

“Ok great.”

“Ok,” Liam smiles, “why don’t you come into my office I’ll prep you for the meeting.”

“Oh right, yes, absolutely,” she says standing and walking into his office as she ponders the idea that, the last sentence he said could be taken so out of context if her friends were here to hear it. Molly would have a field day with it.

Aria closes the door behind her and takes a seat.

“Ok so, the first thing you need to know is that we want her to feel as comfortable as possible. So we want to get to know her, ask questions, but keep them light. Artists need to know that we care about what they’re doing.”

“I completely understand,” Aria says nodding.

“Of course you do, you are an artist yourself, after all,” he says with a grin.

“That grin should be illegal,” she says.

Liam’s eyes flicker as his gaze on Aria becomes stronger.

“Oh my god, I’m so sorry. I can’t believe I said that out loud,” Aria says horrified as she turns a shade of red. “I just meant that…oh hell, you have a nice smile,” she says laughing.

“Flattery will get you everywhere, love,” he says laughing.

Aria covers her face, her heart beat quickens, her mind and body soaking in the sexual tension.

“Two weeks, right?” Liam says fidgeting with his tie, is eyes staring at her, not wavering.

“A day less, actually.” Aria says fidgeting in her seat, her legs tan and glistening.

Liam coughs, reaching for his glass of water.

“We should probably continue talking about the artist,” Aria says as she talks with her hands.

“Yes.”

“I printed a bunch of samples of her art, to have on hand. They are in a folder in the right side of your desk, in the top drawer.”

Liam smiles as he reaches for it.

“Wow she really has talent,” Liam says sifting through them.

“Doesn’t she?” Aria says happily. “Oh and she sent a link to a video of some of her pieces actually being created, she kind of walks us through the process, it’s incredible. Here let me just pull it up for you,” she says walking around his desk.

Aria leans over the computer as she clicks away, inches away from Liam, he takes the scent of her perfume in as he can’t help but get lost being so close to her.

“Ok so here,” she says playing the video.

The artist stands in the middle of an art studio, she throws paint at a blank canvas, as it splashes against the white back ground- A rainbow of colors.

“Wow,” Liam says mesmerized.

“Isn’t it amazing, it seems so random, but somehow it’s art, ya know?” Aria says leaning closely to the screen and unknowingly brushes against Liam.

Liam stills as his eyes glance at her, her blouse low, he can see her lacey black bra underneath.

He inhales sharply and straightens his posture, causing Aria to pull back and realize their close proximity.

“Oh what do I know, I don’t paint.” she says laughing and walking away toward her seat.

Liam catches her hand and pulls her back toward him swiftly, and she bumps into his toned figure. His gaze intense, his hands grip her waist as his lips crash onto hers. Aria loses all bets as she wraps her arms around his neck, propping herself up on the desk, as Liam helps her. His lips find her neck, as his hands grip her thighs while they slide up her dress.

Aria sits, starring in space.

“Aria? Did you hear me, love?”

“I’m sorry, what?” she says coming out of her scandalous daydream, her body overheated.

“I said we have to leave for the meeting in just a few, any other questions?”

“Oh, oh no, I’m good. I’m just gonna need a minute…(she says shifting in her seat) to ya know um…freshen up,” she says standing up and rushing out.

Liam smirks, looking after her.

“Less than two weeks,” he whispers to himself.

***

Aria rushes into the bathroom. Her chest heavy.

Trying to steady her breathing, Aria paces.

“Come on Aria, get your shit together,” she leans against the sink, and stares at her reflection.

“You can not be having feelings like this, he is your boss,” she says to herself her hands in her hair.

“Oh my god,” she says covering her face, breathing deeply.

Aria walks over to the napkin dispenser and grabbing one she taps it against her chest, her forehead and then makes her way into the nearest stall.

***

Aria and Liam stand in the elevator, in silence.

Fifty Shades of Grey…seriously why is that the only thought in my head right now, Aria thinks.

Liam’s cell phone rings.

Thank god, Aria thinks.

He reaches into his pocket and answers, “Hello?”

“Hello Mum.”

“Yes… I know you called earlier. Yes she did give me the message, I just haven’t gotten the chance to get back to you,” he says looking over at Aria, who winces and covers her face.

“I’m sorry,” she whispers.

Liam smirks and waves his hand dismissing her worry.

“Mum, I’m actually on my way to a very important meeting. I’ll call you later, honest.”

“Good bye Mum, talk soon,” he says hanging up.

Aria looks at him and scrunches her nose, Liam chuckles as his smile beams.

“Oh my god, I am so sorry! I forget to tell you, it was in between prepping and you had stepped out and then when you came back we started talking about some of the other emails we got and it just got lost in the mess of my brain. I’m so sorry, your mother must hate me,” Aria says rambling.

“Hey hey hey, (he says laughing and grabbing her hands) it’s okay, really it was an honest mistake. My mum calls so much it’d be impossible not to forget at least one. She’ll live, trust me.”

Aria stills, her hands tightening around his, he has this way of calming her.

Aria sighs, “Thank you,” she says smiling.

Liam smiles as he brings her hands to his lips, he places a kiss on one.

Aria’s entire body freezes, as just her eyes follow his moves.

Ok is he serious, this man is a total freakin’ prince, she thinks.

“Don’t mention it, love,” he says smiling.

The elevator ding signals they’ve reached the lobby floor and the doors open.

Liam lets her hands go, “Let’s go crush this meeting, shall we?” he says glancing over at her as he straightens his tie. He steps out of the elevator as Aria attempts to put one foot in front of the other and follow.

***

Aria and Liam walk along the streets of Manhattan, smoothies in hand.

“So that went well, right? I mean did I do okay in there?”

“It went very well, You did very well. The offer for us to curate her work and get it into a museum is on the table and we’ll see what she says.”

“Do you think it’s weird she didn’t accept it right away. I just feel like it’s such an amazing opportunity.”

“Well artists sometimes take some extra time to null over possibilities when it comes to making a big decision involving their careers and their craft. You should know a little thing or two about that, no?” he says playing coy as he sips his smoothie, looking away.

“Ugh, ok, touché,” she says laughing and hitting him in the arm.

Liam laughs, “how’s the routine coming along?”

“It’s coming…slowly…but it’s coming.” she says sighing.

“I’m sure you will get there, love,” he says smiling.

“I have to.”

Liam watches her as the moment stills. There is definitely more to that.

“So what about you…have you thought about handing over some of those pesky book keeping duties to someone else, so you can be more involved in the art process?”

“I haven’t found much time these days,” he says smiling faintly.

“Well you should make time. I saw your eyes in there when she was talking about how much her art means to her, you just lit up.”

“Maybe that was just because I was sitting next to you,” he says smirking playfully.

“Mr. Whitmore?” she says smirking.

“Hey technically we aren’t in the office, so…” he says smirking.

“And your changing the subject.”

“It’s always been a bit of a soft spot for me, talking about art.”

“Why?”

“Why do you dance?”

Aria gives him a look, he mirrors it.

“Ok. fine, I’ll go first. I dance because at one point it was all I had. Sometimes it still kind of feels that way. My parents died when I was 5 and I got put into the foster system. All my family lived in Puerto Rico and they weren’t able to come here. Let alone have the money to send for me and have another mouth to feed.  So I stayed in foster care and was adopted, pretty quickly by a really nice family. But they were pretty strapped for cash too, so life was hard all around. And I just remember my foster mom always playing Spanish music in the house, the same songs I remember hearing as a kid with my real parents and it just made me feel safe. Like a bit of me, was still me. Ya know? I would sit in my room and just dance, all the time. When I was sad. When I was happy. It just became my escape. And when I was old enough to support myself I joined the academy. My foster parents were older in age, and they passed a few years ago, about a few months after I started at the academy, actually.  So my two cousins came in from Puerto Rico. I never got to meet them until just a few years ago. But we would write each other, and they wanted to come to New York and I needed roommates so it kind of all worked out.”

“Wow.”

“Sorry you asked?”

“No not at all. In fact it makes me find you even more amazing than I already do.”

Aria smiles, and strokes his arm, “Your turn, why do you…like art?”

Liam and Aria continue to walk heading toward a nearby park.

“Ugh, what a loaded question. I just think there’s more to the world than what we see. The feelings we feel can be instantly understood by the lyric of a song, or the stroke of color in a painting.”

“Amen to that.” Aria says glancing over at him and smiling.

“I love that you get it, most people’s eyes glaze over whenever I try to explain it.”

“That’s because there’s more you need to say but you don’t wanna say it. And I won’t push you. But I don’t think the question is so much about what you have to say, as it is about why you won’t say it.”

“Ah your probably right about that one, love” he says laughing and looking away. “Your very wise you know that?” he says smirking at her.

“Yes of course,” she says shrugging and laughing.

“That laugh should be illegal,” he says smirking at her.

Aria glares at him, “You don’t make this easy,” she says laughing and rolling her eyes.

“You don’t either,” he says smiling at her as his eyes drift to her chest.

Aria notices.

“Liam.” she says laughing nervously as she moves away from him. Things getting to chummy with her boss.

“Thank you for all your hard work today, I think it’s safe to say that you definitely sold her,” Liam says returning to business.

“Oh no problem, glad I could help.”

“I’ll have to treat you to dinner sometime, ya know, as a thank you.”

“Oh…um…” she sits puzzled.

“What?” he says looking her over, trying to read her.

“No it just kinda sounded like you were asking me out,” she says laughing.

“Oh that’s crazy,” he says laughing.

“Oh I know right, I’m sorry,” she says laughing quickly.

“Crazy enough to be true though, love,” he says looking at her with his crystal blue eyes.

Aria stands frozen.

“And just in case there’s any confusion love, that was me flirting with you,” he says cocking his head and walking off, leaving a stunned Aria standing there.

Her phone rings;

“Hello? Hi. Oh! Oh of course. That sounds great. I would love to. Yes see you tonight. Thank you so much, bye.”

Aria smiles as she hangs up her phone.

“Hey!” Aria yells after him.

Liam turns.

Aria rushes over to him.

“I just got an offer to teach Zumba full time at the gym, so I’m really sorry, but I guess I’m gonna have to quit,” she says laughing.

Liam looks at her, his eyes wondering, trying to see if she’s thinking what he’s thinking.

“I’m not sorry,” he says as Aria smiles and grabs his face, his hands circling her waist, as their lips collide.

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

*I do not take credit for any images used in my edits or otherwise.*

-<3-