Lovestory

BLOGMAS -Day 14- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 2] Short Story

michelleleighwrites 7 Comments

lights blogmas edit

A husband for christmas short story_Christmas 2017

Read Part 1 HERE

Kris stumbles back, his hand falling from Noel’s face.

Noel searches his face for an explanation.

“I’m sorry. I just-I’m very confused. Where am I? Am I supposed to know you?”

Kris feels his heart start to beat faster, the room begins spinning.

“Yes. I um…I’m your husband.”

Noel’s eyes widen.

“My…my husband?”

Kris closes his eyes tightly, inhaling deeply, giving himself a beat to steady his spinning sight.

Opening his eyes again his vision clears a bit and focuses on Noel’s confused expression. Kris exhales before answering.

“Yes. I’m Kris. Thornwood. And I’m your husband.”

Noel looks around the room, nervously.

“See…” he says pointing to her hospital bracelet that reads Noel Thornwood.

Noel looks and the shock is still unwavering.

“You don’t… remember marrying me?” he asks his heart breaking.

“No…I’m sorry…I don’t even know what’s going on. But I do know that my head is pounding,” she says bringing her hands to her temple.

“You were in an accident. The doctors said you suffered some head injuries and internal bleeding.”

“Oh my god,” Noel says still hazy.

Dr. King walks in, “Hello, Welcome back Mrs. Thornwood, how are we feeling?” she says walking over to the bed where Noel lies in confusion and frustration.

“She’s having trouble remembering some things,” Kris says trying to remain calm.

“Oh well that’s to be expected, you do have a concussion,” Dr. King says looking at Noel.

“She’s having trouble remembering me,” Kris says looking over at the doctor with sad eyes.

Dr. King freezes and looks at Kris.

“Is that true?” She asks looking at Noel again, as she takes out a small flash light, and shines it into Noel’s eyes, waving her index finger in front of her, and Noel’s eyes follow.

“Yes. I don’t remember him, or being married, or even the accident that put me here. I can’t even tell you what I did yesterday,” she says nervously.

“Ok. Well that can happen sometimes with concussions, and due to the accident, you have a mild one, but memory loss can still be a side effect. When you were first brought in, we didn’t know what we were dealing with or how severe your injuries were. We were worried you’d have to have surgery but thankfully after a few tests, there was no bleeding or swelling in the brain. But you suffered blunt trauma, and in turn had abdominal internal bleeding due to the impact of the other car, you must have been thrown around a bit. We had to go in and stop the bleeding before it got worse. The bleeding was from your spleen, but we were able to repair it.”

“Oh my goodness,” Noel says confused and worried.

“She’s going to be okay though, right doctor?” Kris asks worry evident in his voice and on his face.

“Yes, she’s going to be just fine.” Dr. King says smiling.

“But what about my memory?” Noel says her nerves building up.

“You just suffered a traumatic experience, it’s normal for you to be a little foggy right now. There’s no reason to be alarmed.”

“So I should get my memory back soon?”

“Just give yourself some time, you need to rest,” she says looking over at Kris.

“Doctor King, she was complaining about a headache. Is there anything you can give her?”

“Of course, I will have the nurse come in and give you some Tylenol.”

“Thank you Doctor,” Kris says.

“I’ll give you two a minute,” she says exiting the room.

Kris looks over at Noel, he instinctively reaches for her hand.

Noel flinches slightly.

Kris pulls his hand away.

“I’m sorry, it’s out of habit I guess. I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.”

“No, that’s ok.” Noel says looking away sheepishly.

Kris looks around not knowing what to do, or how to act.

Just then the nurse comes in.

“Hello, My name is Fiona and I will be your nurse tonight, I have some Tylenol to help you out with that headache, ok?”

Noel nods.

“I’m just going to step out for a minute,” Kris says rushing out of the room. Noel notices and immediately feels bad.

Jack springs up quickly, “Hey how is she?”

“She doesn’t remember me.”

“What?” Jack says taken back.

Kris starts to hyperventilate, as he leans against the wall, gasping for air.

“She doesn’t…remember me.” he says tears streaming down his face.

Jack catches his friend, before he falls, as they slide to the floor.

The hospital doors open and a young brunette woman rushes in.

She spots them, and she runs over.

“Kris!”

Kris looks and springs up pulling her into a hug, “Holly. Thank god your here. I’m so sorry I had to text you like that. I just didn’t have any details and I was just trying to get to her as fast as I could.”

“No stop it, don’t worry. I’m glad you told me. Of course I’m here. Where is she? Is she ok?”

Kris pulls away and looks at her, “She’s ok, but she doesn’t remember anything.”

“What do you mean… she doesn’t remember the accident?”

“She doesn’t remember me.”

“Oh my god…Oh…my god,” she says pulling him into another hug, holding him tightly.

“She’s in there, if you wanna go see her, maybe she’ll remember you,” he says wiping at the tears as they fall.

“Ok. I’ll give it a shot,” she says looking at him with sympathetic, caring eyes. “Hey…we’re gonna get her through this though…she loves you so much, you know that.”

Kris nods, as Holly lets his hand go and walks into the hospital room.

“Knock, knock…” She says walking in.

Noel looks at her puzzled.

“Hi,” she says with a smile.

“Hello,” Noel says confused.

“I’m guessing my face doesn’t ring a bell either, huh?” she says with a slight smile.

“No, I’m so sorry.”

She smiles and takes out her cell phone and shows her a picture of the two of them as babies.

“I’m Holly, I’m your sister.”

“I have a sister?” Noel asks.

Holly nods.

“Any other siblings I should know about?” Noel says with a small laugh.

“Nope, just you and me.”

“What about our mom and dad?” Noel asks looking at Holly with expectation.

“We lost them a few years back. It was unexpected.”

“Oh that’s terrible,” Noel says sadly.

“Yea, it’s been pretty hard, but you met Kris and he kind of pulled you out of your rut and brought you back to life.”

“Kris as in my…”

“Husband? Yes.”

“I’m really married?” Noel asks with a smile in her voice.

“Oh yea,” Holly says smiling.

“Do you have any pictures of my wedding?”

“But of course… I was your maid of honor after all?” she says smiling and scrolling through her phone. “Here you go,” she says showing her a picture of she and Kris kissing.

“Wow. I look so happy,” Noel says smiling.

“Yea. Well you really love him.” Holly says smiling.

Noel looks at her.

“And just so you know, he loves you too…so much.”

Noel looks back at the picture, wishing she could just remember something.

Just outside, Jack sits on the floor trying to calm Kris down.

The nurse comes over to them, “Mr. Thornwood…”

Kris looks up, and stands up quickly.

“These are all your wife’s belongings,” she says handing him a clear bag.

“Thank you,” he says taking it.

Kris turns to Jack. “I’m just gonna take a minute. I’ll be right back.”

Jack nods. “I’ll be here, let me know if you need anything.”

“Thanks,” he says patting Jack on the back as a thank you.

Kris walks into the men’s room, setting the bag on the sink counter. He beings to sift through it. First he pulls out her red pumps, emerald green dress, and then her lacey red lingerie. Kris stops and stares at it, smiling, he whispers, “I knew she was wearing it,” remembering their conversation from earlier.

“Please tell me your wearing that sexy red lingerie I bought you?”
Noel gasps, Kris laughs.
“You better be alone right now,” she says.
“Baby I think I can actually hear you blushing,” he says with a chuckle.
“Shut up,” she says laughing.

Kris’ eyes begin to tear up again, he fights them back as he continues looking through the bag. Pulling out her purse, cellphone, and then her engagement ring and wedding band.

Kris stares at them,  holding them in his palm, they sparkle reflecting the light.

An image of Noel’s tearful yet smiling face pops into his mind as he remembers getting down on one knee.

“Baby… come back to me, ” he whispers.

Just then Kris hears a knock on the door.

He places the rings in his pocket, and grabs everything else, before opening the door.

“Hey,” Holly says smiling.

“Hey, any luck?” Kris asks stepping out.

“Nope, but she’s asking for you.”

Kris smiles faintly as he walks away toward Noel’s room.

“Hey,” he says walking in cautiously.

“Hi,” Noel says with a small smile noticing Kris’ tear stained cheeks.

“What’s that?” she says pointing to the bag in his hand.

“This is just all the stuff you came in with, the nurse just gave me it.”

“Oh…what’s in it?”

Kris walks over and hands the bag to his wife.

She begins to pull each item out.

“Well, that’s pretty sexy,” she says laughing as she pulls out the lacey red bra.

Kris laughs. “Yes, it is.”

“Where was I going exactly?” she says smiling.

“You were meeting me at my holiday party for work.”

“Wearing this?” she asks her eyebrows raising.

“It’s kind of a thing, I by you lingerie before every Christmas. And you wear it every year under some insanely hot dress at my holiday party. And then well…we…”

Noel smirks, crossing her arms, as she waits for him to finish.

“We?” she says smiling.

“We kind of have our own little celebration later that night, I rent a hotel room, we order room service, it’s like our own little sexy holiday tradition. I know it probably sounds silly…” he says looking away.

“No. It sounds fun.”

Kris looks up at her, their eyes locking, he smiles.

“I’m sorry we didn’t get to that, this year.”

“Hey the year’s not over yet,” he says.

Noel smiles, as her cheeks blush a pretty shade of pink. 

“So how long have we been married?” Noel asks.

“We actually just got married a month ago.”

“Oh…wow…so we’re newly weds.”

“Yup…” he says pulling out her rings from his pocket and handing them to her.

“Wow, they’re gorgeous,” she says admiring them.

“You don’t have to wear them yet, if you don’t want to,” he says nervously.

“Don’t be silly, I would love to wear them,” she says smiling as she hands them back to him.

He looks at her confused.

Noel holds her hand out, waiting.

“Aren’t you going to put them on me?”

“Oh of course,” her says smiling as he slides the rings onto her red manicured finger.

Kris leans in and cupping her face, he places a kiss on her lips.

Although caught off guard, Noel doesn’t flinch this time. 

Kris places his forehead against hers, looking into her eyes, he sighs, “I’m sorry, I just, I couldn’t help myself,” he says.

Noel smiles.

“I really do wish I could remember, I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Hey, I got you to fall in love with me once, I can do it again.”

Noel looks up at him, and pulls him in by his jacket, kissing him again. 

Kris wraps his arms around her waist pulling her closer to him, as he kisses her. Noel falls into it as she circles her hands around his neck.

Dr. King walks in.

“Oh I’m sorry.” 

Kris pulls away, as Noel blushes. 

“Are we getting our memory back already?” she says smiling and walking over.

“Not just yet,” Noel says looking away with a laugh.

“Oh…”

“Hey if you woke up to this gorgeous guy saying he was your husband, would you question that?” Noel asks.

Kris looks at her, smirking.

Dr. King, smiles, “Well you have a good point and a sense of humor, that’s fantastic.” 

Noel smiles. 

“I just wanted to check on you and do some blood work and routine stuff. Check your reflexes, things like that.”

“Ok,” Noel says smiling.

“Dr. King how long do you have to keep her here?”

“Once I get all the results back from the follow up tests, and I’m able to give her the all clear, you’ll be able to take her home…I’m thinking in a day or two.”

“Really?” Kris says smiling, “that’s fantastic.” 

Noel smiles rubbing his back, he turns smiling as she reaches for his hand.

He takes it, looking down at their hands, he smirks liking the way her rings sparkle on her finger…right where they belong. 

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

*I do not take credit for any images used in my edit.*
-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

BLOGMAS -Day 13- “A Husband for Christmas” Short Story

michelleleighwrites 8 Comments

lights blogmas edit

A husband for christmas short story_Christmas 2017

Noel smiles into her mirror, pulling at her fitted emerald green mini dress, she turns in her mirror to check the back of her outfit. 

Just as she touches up her red lipstick, her phone begins to play a Christmas melody aloud.

Smiling at the “Hubby” title that flashes across the phone, she picks it up to answer it. 

“Hey baby,” she says her smile evident through her voice.

Kris smiles as he stands in the corridor of a fancy restaurant.

“Hey baby, are you on your way?”

“About to leave in a few minutes, just putting on the finishing touches.”

“Ah, all the bells and whistles for me?” he asks with a comic feel to his voice. 

“All the bells and whistles,” she says with a laugh.

Kris looks around surveying that he’s out of ear shot before making his next comment. 

“Please tell me your wearing that sexy red lingerie I bought you?”

Noel’s eyes go wide, as she gasps, Kris laughs.

“You better be alone right now,” she says her hands on her hips, as she rolls her sparkling brown eyes.

“Baby I think I can actually hear you blushing,” he says with a chuckle.

“Shut up,” she says laughing as she flips her perfectly curled brunette locks behind her.

“I’m sure you look perfect, just get your sexy ass over here quick. Everyone is asking me where my wife is and I’m kind of missing you.”

Noel laughs and smiles at the wedding picture of she and Kris on her vanity.

“I’m on my way.”

“Ok I’ll see you soon.”

“Bye, I love you.” 

“I love you…bye babe.”

Kris smirks and heads back into the restaurant. 

Noel rushes downstairs passing pictures of she and Kris throughout their relationship hung up on the walls of their cozy home. 

She grabs her purse, coat and car keys and rushes out the door. 

Kris is mingling at his holiday party, he checks his watch in between pleasant conversations with coworkers. 

Time begins to  pass and Kris begins to worry, he walks away to the side and dials his wife’s number.

It rings a few times and then goes to voice mail. 

Kris’ brow furrows, “Hey baby, it’s me. It’s been a bit since you said you were leaving. I figured you’d be here by now. Give me a ring, let me know your ok. I love you.”

Kris steps outside to look around.  The New York City streets glisten with Christmas lights.

Kris checks his phone again.

Nothing.

A co- worker Jack, steps outside, calling to him; “Hey Kris, what are you doing out here man?”

“I’m just waiting for Noel, she should have been here by now.”

“Did you call her?”

“Yea but it just rings and then goes straight to voicemail.”

“Well maybe she left her cell at home. I’m sure she’s on her way, you know the city, she probably just got stuck in traffic. Come on back in, it’s freezing.”

“No man, something feels wrong. I feel like something bad might have happened.”

“What? Are you crazy? What now that your married your gonna turn into a neurotic?”

“When it comes to Noel, I’m always a neurotic. She’s my everything. And she knows that. Which is why she always has her phone and she always picks up. And if she can’t pick up she texts.”

Kris looks at his phone again, he begins to pace, running his hands through his sandy brown hair, as he dials Noel again.

No answer.

Kris huffs, and leaves yet another message. “Noel, baby, please call me. Where are you? I need to know that your ok. Call me.” 

Kris hangs up his phone. 

He looks at Jack, “I need to go look for her,” he says beginning to turn away, as his phone begins to ring, mirroring the same Christmas melody Noel had playing earlier when he called her.

“Oh thank god, that’s her,” he says with relief.

“See there ya go, no need to get all worried,” Jack says.

“Hey Noel, Baby, where are you?”

“Hello Mr. Thornwood?”

“Yes. Who’s calling, where’s my wife?” Kris’ face falls, as his heart freezes in his chest, it begins to tighten knowing his suspicions might be true. The voice on the other end was not the voice he was used to. The happy, smiley tone of his beautiful wife. 

“Mr. Thornwood, my name is Dr. King, your wife was in a car accident, we are prepping her for surgery now, she’s at Mount Sinai Hospital.”

“Oh my god…What do you mean….What happened, what kind of surgery?”

“Mr. Thornwood, I don’t want to alarm you but your wife has to be tended to quickly. Once you get here, I will have an nurse fill you in.”

“Oh my god. I-I’m on my way,” he says his mind blurring, his sight hazy.

“What?” asks his co-worker.

“I have to go,” Kris says rushing toward the street to hail a cab. 

“Kris, man, what is it?” Jack says following him.

“My wife, she was… in some kind of accident, she’s in the hospital.”

Kris begins to panic as cab after cab passes him by.

“I have to get to her.”

“Kris, Kris come on, let’s take my motorcycle, it’s around the back,” Jack says taking off quickly. 

Kris nods and rushes off with his friend.

***

The hospital doors open, and Kris rushes in, blinded by the bright lights and chaos.

“Excuse me,” he says springing toward the nurses station.”Dr. King called me, my name is Kris Thornwood, my wife….(his eyes begin to fill up with tears) my wife… Noel Thornwood was in an accident. They said she’s in surgery. I need someone to tell me what’s happening.”

The nurse sympathetically looks up at him. 

“Hi Mr. Thornwood, Dr. King told me to expect you. Your wife is in surgery now.”

“What happened? Is she okay?”

“She was in a car accident and suffered some head injuries and internal abdominal bleeding. There’s an officer waiting near by to explain the details of the accident to you.”

“Is she going to be ok?”

“The doctor’s are doing everything they can do to make sure that she’ll be able to make a full recovery.”

Kris begins to feel his chest tighten up again, the heaviness creeping in, panic setting in.

“Excuse me, sir, are you Mr. Thornwood?” a police officer asks walking over to him. 

Kris looks up, “Yes, do you know what happened with my wife’s accident?”

“Your wife was involved in a head on collision, unfortunately there was some black ice that caused another car to spin out of control and drive into her. Although the roads are icy this time of a year, we are still investigating the driver who drove into your wife. There could be a possibility that the driver was under the influence.”

“So…your saying my wife’s accident wasn’t actually an accident?”

“As I said sir, we are still gathering evidence. There is no reason to believe anything foul was at play just yet. I assure you we will follow through and get to the bottom of this.”

“Oh my god…I can’t believe this.” 

Dr. King emerges from the operating room with a look of exhaustion.

“Who is here for Noel Thornwood?”

Kris turns and rushes over-“I’m her husband Kris. How is he? Is she gonna be ok?”

“She’s in recovery now, the surgery went very well, and we will know more about her release once she fully wakes up. She’s been in and out for a while, but she is just coming down from all the aesthesia, so maybe give her a minute to adjust.”

“Can I see her?”

“Yes but if she does wake up,  she’ll be groggy, so just make it brief.”

“Thank you.”  Kris says rushing in.

Kris walks into the recovery room to see Noel laying in a hospital bed dressed in a typical hospital robe he knows she would hate, covered in bruises and bandages. Her color pale. Her smile, faded. Her engagement ring and wedding band gone. 

Kris’ eyes well up all over again, as he walks slowly over to her bed side.

“Baby, my god, what happened to you? I’m so sorry.” 

Kris reaches and takes her hand in his lacing his fingers through hers.

“Noel, baby, I’m here. I’m with you.”

Kris’ eyes widen as he feels Noel’s grip tighten around his hand.

“Noel, Noel I’m here, baby, I’m here.” he says stroking her cheek, his wedding band catching the light from the terrible fluorescent glare above.

Noel begins to stir, her eyes flutter open. 

Kris sighs heavily.

“Hi. Hey beautiful. God, I’m so happy your ok. I love you so much,” he says leaning down and placing a sweet, yet firm kiss on her lips, his tears streaming down his face.

Noel seems uncomfortable, she stirs, her eyes darting around, trying to focus, trying to make sense of her surroundings.

“Baby, hey, I’m here, can you see me, what’s wrong? Are you in pain?”

Noel looks up into his eyes.

“Hey, what is it?” he says leaning in and cupping her face.

“Who…Who are you?” Noel asks, Kris’ face dropping along with his heart. 

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

*I do not take credit for any images used in my edit.*

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BLOGMAS -Day 4- A Broken Heart For Christmas Short Story

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

lights blogmas edit

Two years ago, I featured a Christmas story as one of my short story series pieces. While you wait for the next Chapter of my current series “Move,” why not check out…broken heart for christmas
Summary: Dean Sanders broke Lucy Michaelson’s heart years ago back in their home town of Oakland Valley, Minnesota. And since then she’s moved on- moved to New York, started her dream career. And so has he, or so they both thought. Everyone knew their story, knew their love was lost. But little does everyone know…there was always more to their story, more than Lucy ever let on. Follow their journey through awkward run ins and past memories- both good and bad. 

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6 

lucy and dean 9lucy and dean 4Lucy and dean 3Dean and Lucy

 

Let me know what you think in the comments below! 😀

*I do not take credit for any images used in my short story edits.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 11

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

I know it’s been forever but…We’re back! Aria and Liam’s love story continues…

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 10 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Aria’s eyes flutter open, as her mind adjusts to where she is. Liam’s.

The sun light shining through crisp, light gray curtains as they blow, flowing in the gentle breeze rustling through the cracked window.

She smiles seeing him sleeping peacefully beside her on the couch. His arms wrapped around her waist.

Turning in his arms, she faces him as she places a kiss on the corner of his lips.
Liam stirs and opening his eyes, he smiles brightly.

“So it wasn’t a dream,” he says.
“Nope,” she replies laughing.
“God, I like waking up to you,” he says pulling her to him, as he kisses her again.
Aria smiles against his lips, her hand resting on his chest, she pushes him away gently.
“And I like waking up to you just as much, but-”
“Mm mm, no buts,” he says shaking his head and covering her lips with his, his arms tightening their grip around her pulling her closer to him. 
“You’re going to make it impossible for me to leave aren’t you?” she says with a laugh, kissing him back.
“That’s the plan, love,” he whispers in between kisses that just keep getting more intense by the second.

Aria’s body wraps around Liam, as her hands gently fall upon the muscles in his arms.
Each of their hearts beating rapidly, Liam’s hands firmly staying in their place on Aria’s waist.
Aria pulls away to come up for air, as she exhales, she locks eyes with Liam and they both laugh.
Aria takes Liam’s hand and places it on her chest- over her heart.
“Feel that- my heart is beating like crazy fast,” she says laughing.
Liam smiles, and taking her same hand, he places in over his heart, “We’re one in the same, love,” he says.
Aria looks up at him, and swiftly cups his face, pulling him to her, she kisses him passionately.
Liam responds quickly leaning into her kiss, as Aria falls back onto the couch.
After what feels like an eternity, Liam pulls away, sitting up.
“Aria.”
“Liam.” She says mimicking him as she lays beside him, reaching for his hand, he looks down at them and lacing his fingers through hers, he lets out a frustrated sigh.
“I don’t want to mess this up with you.”
“You’re not. You won’t.”
“If you keep kissing me like that, I’m going to lose any will power I have. And things could escalate quicker for us, then we planned. As it is, I’ve already seen you in your lingerie and I swear it is killing me, I can’t get it out of my mind,” he says a crimson blush crawling up his neck and cheeks.
Aria looks away and laughs.
“I’m serious, love, you are quite radiant and I just know that soon all the good manners I’ve practiced all these years, are going to fall straight out of my head. If I can be frank…(Aria nods her permission) I think you are incredibly sexy and every time I see you, I just want to rip your clothes off.”
Aria’s eyes shoot up and lock on Liam’s.
“Well then, we’ll have to set that dinner date up rather quickly won’t we?” she says smiling. “Although you did cook for me last night, so technically-“
Liam swiftly leans in and kisses her deeply, the urgency evident, as his hands finally slide along her body, cupping her bottom half.
Aria kissing him back, she wraps her arms around his neck.
Liam’s hands tug on the bottom of her hoodie, she lifts her arms up as he removes it tossing it to the side. Liam shifts her to a sitting position as she straddles him.
Aria breaking their kiss briefly she tugs Liam’s t-shirt off him. Smiling at him as her hands fall to his chest.
Liam smirks, cupping her face and pulling her to his lips, his hands ending up in her hair.
Aria looks at Liam as his breathing is quickened and raspy.
She reaches for the draw string on Liam’s pants, untying it, Liam’s lips moving to Aria’s neck.
“Where’s your bed room?” Aria whispers in a breathless tone.
Liam looks at her and he stills. Aria stares back, waiting.

Liam swiftly grips her legs and lifts her up, as he walks toward his bedroom.
Setting her on his bed, Aria slides her leggings off as Liam tosses his pants to the side, walking over to her, she kneels at the side of the bed in a similar black lingerie from earlier, reaching for him.
Taking her hands, he looks at her, “We’re really gonna do this?” he asks.
Aria looks up at him.

 

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-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Riverdale Review

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

This Summer, I decided to test out the waters and watch The CW’s latest drama- Riverdale. I’m starting to brainstorm ideas for writing my own pilot episode and I was curious what a CW show looks like nowadays. Granted yes, I’ve watched Supergirl, but I feel like superhero shows are in a league of their own.

 

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Left to Right: Veronica, Betty, Josie, Jughead, Cheryl, and Archie.

I grew up watching One Tree Hill and Dawson’s Creek also hosted by the same network- The WB turned The CW. And then there’s also Fox’s The O.C. What do each of these have in common? They were all about young people navigating the ups and downs of love and friendship and just trying to find their way. I needed a new Netflix series so after giving Riverdale’s pilot a watch, it was nice to see that familiar drama still occupying the screen of my favorite network. I was hooked.

If you haven’t seen the first season of Riverdale – beware this post contains SPOILERS!

****SPOILERS AHEAD!!!!****

Riverdale is based on Archie Comics. Now I never read the comics, but I had some loose ideas about them being comedy based. And after asking around a bit, I was told that they are nothing like the dramatic, sexually charged Riverdale. The charcters are the same, but the show definitely sexed it up a lot and took some dramatic, cinematic liberties. The town of Riverdale reminds me of the 70’s. At first I honestly thought the show was set in the 70’s. The old styled cars, the fluorescent lighting in the old fashioned diner with milkshakes and fries, the drive in movie theater. The town is definitely small, but has so much character, in fact if you ask me it’s probably one of the show’s most important characters all on it’s own.

The show opens up with a narration…Jughead Jones narrating and explaining the mystery that floats on the rivers of Riverdale. The death of star football player/student/all around golden boy Jason Blossom looms over their heads as summer comes to a close and school is back in session. Was it an accident or was it murder? And if it was murder? Then who did it? And why? While, his twin sister Cheryl goes around destroying everything in her path in her grieving state. This narration is Jughead telling us the story- we later find out through his words what happened and it becomes clear that Jughead is in deed a writer. Yes, I am instantly invested.

Needless to say that Jughead is played by none other than Disney Channel veteran- Cole Sprouse from The Suit Life of Zack and Cody. And let’s just say… What a hunk! 😉

It’s a bit deceiving, because we think this story is all about Archie Andrews. And yet as we find out more about him, we realize just how unlikeable he actually is. Not only does he reject his best friend Betty Cooper’s love for him, but he starts a secret love affair with his music teacher (#DawsonsCreekVibesAnyone). Also throughout the course of the first season he “dated”, “slept with”, “hung out with” like 4 different girls. Just hopping from one girl to the next, never letting the dust settle. Kind of a man slut, if you ask me, as his best friend Betty got a front row seat. He annoyed me so many times!

Enter Betty Cooper. The perfect best friend, the girl next door. She gets straight A’s, is on the school newspaper, and has a hand in many other school functions. She has been Archie’s best friend since they were kids and has lived next door to him for just as long. We learn of Betty’s feelings for Archie in the very first episode as she sits in her room primping for her end of the summer meet-up with Archie. She hasn’t seen him all summer. Her gay best friend Kevin blurts it out- “We agreed Betty, it’s time,” as they watch Archie change his shirt across the way. “Archie got hot, he’s got abs now, 6 more reasons for you to take that ginger bull by the horns tonight,” Kevin says, as Betty rushes over to see. However, Betty’s excitement is squashed when a new girl named Veronica comes in and interrupts her time with Archie.

Enter Veronica Lodge- the rich girl-turned broke. She’s new to Riverdale and not exactly happy to be here. Her father is in jail for fraud and now she and her mother have relocated to Riverdale. It’s clear within this first season that Veronica’s mom grew up in Riverdale and has a past with the other parents there. In fact all the parents went to high school together and harbor secrets of their own. Everyone in this town is CRAZY! I swear there are some twists and turns that will just shock the hell out of you. The only sane parent is Archie’s dad- Fred Andrews.

Veronica shows interest in Archie early on and Betty gets jealous, claiming to trying to be a better person since losing everything, and wanting to be Betty’s friend. She appears to want to help Betty get with Archie, she helps her get on the cheerleading squad too, which is something Betty has always wanted. However along the road to friendship, Veronica breaks some serious girl code. Cue the love trial. Although there will be more than one this season.

You’ll see some familiar faces, that’s for sure- for instance, Jughead’s dad F.P. Jones is played by Scream’s Skeet Ulrich. While, Archie’s dad Fred is played by 90’s heartthrob Luke Perry (Dylan on 90210) and his mom Mary is played by 80’s movie queen Molly Ringwald. All kinds of YES!

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There’s even a When Calls the Heart actor on board too- Martin Cummins plays Kevin’s dad- Sheriff Keller. I’m pretty sure you can place every actor form this cast from somewhere, so many familiar faces!

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After Betty’s suffers the heartbreak that Archie just doesn’t feel the same way for her, she is thrust into a bit of a family whirl wind- her sister’s crazy…her parents are crazy. Is she crazy? When Betty begins to spiral and question herself, her identity (doing some questionable things throughout this time) it’s not Archie who helps her through it, but Jughead. It’s clear that everyone in this town is linked in some way. As the story unfolds, we learn that Jughead, Archie and Betty all grew up together. Archie being the best friend that linked them all. Although Jughead and Archie had parted ways they begin to be friends again.

As Archie and Veronica show interest in each other from the very beginning, Betty has some trouble being a friend to either of them, until Jughead kisses her that is.

Cue the second love triangle and my Riverdale Ship! #BUGHEAD

Second love triangle you ask? Why yes, because after Archie and Veronica get all hot and heavy- he begins to notice little things happening between his good friends Jughead and Betty. Jughead putting his arm round Betty, and comforting her. He also watches from afar as Betty hugs Jughead lovingly. Yea, we saw that coming from a mile away. Always wanting what he can’t have, that Archie. Well keep it moving ya man slut, your looks are no good here now. Peep that look at 1:03.

Jughead and Betty are ADORABLE! Jughead is a loner, his family is torn apart. Betty becomes his support and in turn he becomes her sanity. They have some of the sweetest moments, and you get to see a different side of him, a tender side. He’s always so sarcastic and keeps to himself but with Betty, he finds a safe place. And we get to see Betty soar, free from harboring feelings for Archie. Fly Betty, Fly! In fact the Archie/Betty/Jughead love triangle reminds me of Dawson’s Creek’s love triangle between Dawson/Joey/Pacey. And yes you guessed it, Jughead is Pacey. 😀

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Here are some clips of the couple-

That first clip gets me every time, I love how he looks at her before he kisses her. Like he’s thinking about it, if you ask me, I think he’s liked her for a long time. That is definitely one of my favorite scenes. That last clip is also one of my favorites- they just had a pretty big fight and then this is their aftermath- she let’s down her walls and he just literally takes her darkness into his hands and kisses it, just being there for her. Brilliant and so so perfect. #Swooning

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Season 2 is sure to bring some serious drama and I won’t be surprised if they attempt to get Archie all fired up for Betty, but to contradict Kevin Keller, I believe Betty and Jughead are endgame. Bughead had some bumps in the road, and some trust issues, but they had some really great moments in the finale. Jughead confessed his love for Betty, while she did they same, taking them into their first sexual scene. I remember being like- *Gasp* Jughead! Betty! I didn’t know you had it in you. They seem so cute and reserved. Haha!

Anyway let’s just say their tryst was cut short, because something scandalous happens which of course throws a wrench in it all. Now that I breezed through Season 1 on Netflix, Welcome to me waiting for Season 2 like…

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Riverdale has it all…drama, teen angst, mystery, suspense, love (a great ship), friendship, writing, singing, and an interesting town!

Fun Fact: Kevin Keller ends up having a romance with this rough around the edges characters named Joaquin DeSantos. Haha that’s my last name, so crazy!

 

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Left: Joaquin, Right: Kevin

Season 2 airs on The CW on Wednesdays @ 8 pm starting October 11, this Fall.

 

*I do not take credit for any images, or videos used.*

-<3-

 

 

 

Move- Chapter 6

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 5 HERE

america ferrara_yolanda

Liam sits at his desk gazing out the window, the sky painted in orange and red amidst a setting sun. Lost in color, and fantasies of Aria.

Anne’s voice pops in on his phone intercom-

“Mr. Whitmore I have an Aria Lenz on line 1 for you.”

Liam jolts up knocking his pencil holder over spilling them onto his desk.

“Sir, are you alright?” Anne asks with concern.

Liam Whitmore is always the picture perfect display of poised and polished.  

“Yes, Anne, I am just fine, just a clumsy moment. Please put Ms. Lenz straight through.”

***

Aria stands in the middle of her bed room, phone to ear, pacing, as she bites on her nail.

 

***

“Yes, Sir.”

Liam clears his throat, loosening his tie, he gives himself a beat before pressing the button to answer line 1.

“Aria, I’m so glad you called, how are you?”

“Hi, I’m well thank you, and yourself?” she says rolling her eyes at herself for sounding like a child trying to play adult.

“I’m well thank you,” he says smirking, “So what can I do for you, love?”

“If you’re still looking for a temp, I would be interested in interviewing with you, if you have the time.”

“I am still looking for a temp, but there’s really no interview necessary. I trust that you can do the job just fine.”

“Oh, well are you sure? I mean I’ve had a lot of jobs since I moved to the city and secretary has never been one of them. I wouldn’t want you to take a chance on me and then regret it later.”

“Aria…I could never regret anything that concerns you. You will do just fine, I promise you.”

Aria’s heart begins to flutter.

Liam can sense Aria’s hesitation even over the phone.

“I’ll tell you what…why don’t you come in later today and we can go through what the position requires and then you can decide from there.”

“I don’t want to trouble you anymore than I already have.”

“Aria I offered, ok you do not need to worry, love. Is 3:30 ok for you?”

Aria checks the clock, 12:33, ok less than 3 hours to get cute, she thinks.

“Sure, that’s perfect, I will see you then.”

“Alright, see you soon, love.”

“Ok thank you, bye.”

“Bye,” he says hanging up, a smirk playing on his lips.

Aria squeals rushing into her room.

Liam presses a button on his phone, “Anne can you come in here for one moment, please?”

Anne walks in seconds later, “Mr. Whitmore,” she says with a smile.

“I think you need a vacation, don’t you?”

“I’m sorry?”

“You work too hard, tirelessly, really, you deserve a break. How about Paris, 2 weeks on me, you can bring anyone you want?”

“Sir all due respect, but are you kidding me?”

“I don’t kid about vacation,” he says with a smile.

“Are you sure you can afford me being away, the buyer’s market is hectic right now.”

“I’ll hire a temp while you’re away, not to worry.”

“Oh my gosh, well then yes! I would love to see Paris!” Anne says squealing.

“Good, better go home and pack! I’ll take care of the tickets.”

Anne looks at him in shock.

“Yes! Thank you sir, thank you!” she screams and rushes off.

Liam smiles as his plan begins to fall into place.

 

***

 

Aria looks at her reflection in the mirror, smoothing out her black pencil skirt.

She makes a face as she rips her blouse off her body, displaying her toned abs and lacey white bra. She tosses the blouse on her bed and shuffles through her closet.

“Ugh! (she huffs) Yolanda!” she yells.

Yolanda her cousin and second roommate strolls in eating the left over tacos from last night.

“Yea, babe?” she says in between bites.

“Good huh?” Aria says noticing.

“So good,” she mumbles. “So what’s with all the huffing,” she says wiping her mouth with a napkin.

“Do you have any cute-professional tops, I can borrow? I have an interview in like an hour and nothing in my closet is working!”

“Yea, I should have something, hang on,” she says walking back out.

A few minutes later she comes in with a cute fitted sleeveless silk blouse.

“Perfect! Thank you thank you, your the best!” Aria says taking the hanger and kissing her cousin on the cheek.

“No problem,” Yolanda says smiling, “So what’s the job?”

“Secretary…at this art buying company, or something like that?”

“Are you talking about Whitmore Ink?”

“Uh, yea, that sounds about right, (she says putting the blouse on over a tank top) I am interviewing with Liam Whitmore…so…”

“Ah, he’s a hottie.”

Aria looks at her cousin, with a puzzled expression.

“You know him?” she says feeling slightly territorial all of a sudden.

“Um no. I just know of him. He’s sponsored some of our hospital fundraisers in the past, and I’ve seen him at functions, he’s super cute, and seems really sweet.”

“Hmm.”

Yolanda looks at her cousin with suspicion.

Aria sits on her bed as she slips on her trusty black pumps.

She stands up and checks her reflection in the mirror once again.

“Do you know how old he is?” Aria asks trying to act nonchalant.

“30 ish,  (thinks for a beat) 32 actually. He usually has to give a speech at the events, and I remember someone mentioning his age in his introduction. Why?” she says smiling.

“No reason, just curious. That’s kinda young to be running an entire business.”

“It’s a family business, so…”

“Right…”

“What’s with you?”

“Nothing.”

“You’re acting funny?”

“No I’m not, I’m just nervous. You know I haven’t been on an interview in a while and I really need this job so…”

“You’re gonna be great!”

“Ok be honest, how do I look, professional enough?”

“Yes, you look great.” Yolanda says smiling.

Aria looks around and grabs a cardigan and throws it on.

“Are you insane it’s like 90 degrees out! You don’t need that.”

“Um, I just want to look polished,” she says buttoning it a bit.

“You look great, go kill it. We’ll celebrate later, I actually have the night off.”

“Oh, yes, Netflix and junk food?”

“Deal.” Yolanda smiles, smacking her cousin’s butt as she leaves for her interview. “Be careful!” she yells after her.

“You too! Love you!”

“Love you!” Yolanda yells back.

 

***

 

Liam sits at his desk, his eyes glued to the clock- 3:20 PM.

His heart begins to beat quickly, at just the idea of seeing her again.

Aria steps onto the elevator her nerves kicking in.

She fixes herself as the elevator climbs each floor.

The elevator doors open and she steps out onto a modernly dressed floor, brightly colored art pieces line the walls. Abstract pieces.

She smiles as Liam rounds the corner.

“Mr. Whitmore, hello.”

“Hi Aria, I was just coming to meet you. Follow me, my office is right this way,” he says with a bright smile.

Aria follows him as her heart begins to beat quicker.

Liam reaches his office door and opening the door he steps aside to let Aria in first.

Aria walks past him, and as she does, he gets hit with the scent of her perfume.

Easy Whitmore, keep it professional, he thinks.   

“Please have a seat,” he says rounding the corner of his desk and sitting opposite her.

Aria takes a seat.

He is gorgeous, she thinks. Letting her eyes drift to his lips as he smiles. I bet he’s a good kisser, she thinks. Whoa. Stay professional. Pay attention Aria!  Think non-flirtatious thoughts. Ok. Work. Money. Business. Bills. Many many bills. You have to pay your bills so you don’t get kicked out on your ass and watch your dream die.

“So…” Liam says with a smile, unbuttoning his suit jacket and folding his hands on top of his desk.

“So…” Aria replies with a little laugh still trying to shake the sexual tension she feels creeping in.

Aria begins to fidget as she pulls at the hem of her skirt. Why didn’t I just wear pants, she says kicking herself.

Liam notices her movements, as his eyes glance over her body, landing on her toned, tanned legs. Why couldn’t she wear pants? he thinks.

He shakes his thoughts as he realizes neither of them have spoken much.

“Let’s just jump into it, shall we?” he says smiling.

“Yes, of course.”

“Ok so basically what my secretary is in charge of doing is handling all calls and appointments that come through. There are at times, some paperwork regarding artists releasing their work and things like that. You can just forward that to me, and I’ll take care of it. You’ll get a company e-mail and password of course.”

“Ok, well how am I supposed to know whether or not you want to take the call or the appointment?”

Liam smiles.

“I’m sorry was that a stupid question?” she says mentally kicking herself.

“No, it’s not. Unfortunately there are times that I will neglect to take a call, on account of a conflicting commitment- or if I’m in a meeting, or if it’s a telemarketer trying to sell us something,” he says laughing, “trust me it’ll be easier once you are out there in the midst of it. Mostly the calls you get will be from people who have already done business with us, and if that’s the case, you can just put them through, or schedule an appointment.”

“Ok that sounds like something I can do.”

“I have no doubt that you’ll pick it up, in no time.”

“Ok well what if an artist calls, like someone new, unestablished.”

“Good question. We usually don’t take new clients right off the bat. We do schedule appointments with them, they should provide us with a resume and should come prepared with a portfolio. Those are my favorite meetings to take quite honestly. I really enjoy meeting the artists behind the paintings, or sculptures.”

“Okay, good to know. Sounds amazing.”

“It really is, I’d love to have you sit in on a meeting, if your ever interested.”

“That sounds great, I would like that.” Aria says with a smile.

“Sometimes the artists may e-mail you too, and in that case, you can just tell them what they need to provide and then forward that to me.”

“Okay, should I be aware of any fancy computer software?” Aria asks.

“There may be some data that needs to be put into our company data base,  but it’s a really easy software, that I will show you how to use, if need be.”

 “Okay, thank you,” she says smiling and looking around nervously.

Can I really work alongside this man everyday? And remain professional? Even if it is just for 2 weeks. I feel like I can’t breath, she thinks.

“Aria, I’m not worried, you shouldn’t be either.”

“I just don’t want to mess up, or stress you out even more. An assistant is supposed to make your life easier.”

He looks at her and smiles.

“I’m not like your old boss, I actually care about my employees. So listen I get that your new, and you’ve been completely honest about the fact that you’ve never been a secretary before, and I am still choosing to hire you. So don’t worry, ok, if your not sure about something, ask me, my door is always open.”

And so are my arms, he thinks.

Aria let’s out a sigh or relief.

“Wow, I didn’t know what it’d be like to actually have a boss that believes in me,” she says smiling and letting out a little laugh.

Liam smiles.

“So does that mean you’ll take the job?” he asks.

“Yes, I would love to,” Aria says smiling.

“Ok then, great, glad to have you on board,” he says standing and reaching out his hand to her.

“Thank you, Mr. Whitmore,” she says shaking his hand.

“Call me Li-“

“All due resect but I can’t call you Liam, here. I would just feel too weird. After all you are my boss, right?”

“I suppose so, but I try to keep things relaxed here,” he says mentally kicking himself for putting an ethical barrier between them.

“Ok well I will try then,” says smiling as they continue to shake hands.

Noticing, they both let go simultaneously with a laugh.

“Well it was a pleasure, I’ll notify HR that you’ll be joining us and they’ll be emailing you some forms to fill out, I’ll you see Monday?”

“Yes, absolutely, thank you so much.”

“Thank you.”

Aria smiles and turns to head out, “Here I’ll walk you out,” he says following her.

Aria passes the assistant desk and pauses.

“Will this be…”

“Yes, this will be your desk. On Monday I’ll show you how to work the phones, don’t worry,” he says smiling.

“Thank you, see you Monday,” she says waving as she steps into the elevator.

Liam waves as the elevator doors close.

Aria exhales as she leans against the wall, her heart pounding.

“Oh gosh, Aria what have you gotten yourself into?” she mumbles to herself.

Liam stares at the closed doors, his body tightening and breaking into a sweat.

Let’s see you pull this whole professional vibe off Whitmore, he thinks walking back to his office as he runs a hand through his hair, his heart beating quickly.

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

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

-<3-

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Move- Chapter 5

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 4 HERE

 
Aria stands in a mirrored room, with high ceilings.

Surrounding her are women in athletic tank tops and leggings.

She walks to the front of the crowd.

“Hello ladies! Welcome. My name is Aria and this is my first class teaching Zumba, but I love to dance. I love to move. And Zumba above all else is about moving. So no matter what, even if you need to modify the moves, go at your own pace, and just keep moving!” she smiles as she presses play on her radio.

Allie and Molly stand front row and center as they follow along with Aria’s moves, the rest of the class trying to keep up. Aria instantly gets lost in the music as she effortlessly moves.

***

“Keep those legs up ladies! You’re doing great!” Aria yells midway through her class.
Her curvy, toned frame bouncing along to the beat, beads of sweat gathering on her forehead and neck.

***

“Thank you so much ladies! You were all on fire, I hope you had a good time!” she says smiling brightly.

The ladies all cheer and clap as they begin to collect their belongings- filing out.

A woman comes up to Aria as she grabs a sip of water, and wipes her face with a towel.

“Excuse me, Aria?”

“Hi,” She smiles at the young woman.

“I just wanted to say your class was amazing! I’ve never worked my ass off so hard and had so much fun at the same time.”

“Oh well thanks so much. I’m so glad to hear that!”

“Do you have a schedule of nights that you’ll be here?”

“Um, right now it’s just on Tuesdays, but I can definitely keep you posted,” Aria says smiling brightly.

“Ok awesome, I’ll see you next week!”

“Yes! Great! See you then!”

“Bye,” the woman says waving as Aria waves in return.

Allie and Molly walk over with smiles.

“Killer class, I feel my butt just getting more bootylicious by the second,” Molly says doing a little flirtatious jig. “Seriously that was better than any of the other classes we’ve ever taken here.”

Aria laughs.

“Truth,” Allie says pointing her finger at Aria.

“Thank you,” She says smiling at her support system.

“Did I not tell you, you’d be perfect for this?” Allie says smiling.

“Yes you did. I’m so happy that they asked me to teach, but it’s still only one night a week, my savings account isn’t going to last much longer. I have to find a second job with more hours, like now,” Aria says as she and her girls walk out of the gym and into Manhattan nightlife.

“So where are we going?” Molly says dancing her way down the street as people pass by with looks of confusion.

Allie and Aria laugh.

“I don’t know about you guys but I am a sweaty mess, all I wanna do is go home, shower, eat and crash.”

“Should we pick up tacos on the way?” Allie says.

“Tacos? What… aren’t you ladies worried about our figures,” Molly says faking seriousness.

The girls look at each other and erupt in laughter as they walk over the nearby taco truck.

“Yea, because I got this big Latin ass just from dancing,” Aria says sarcastically.

“You are blessed,” Molly says looking at her own slimmer bottom, causing the girls to laugh.

***

Aria walks into her dimly lit apartment ready to collapse.

Her cousin and roommate Layla stumbles out from her bedroom, “I smell tacos.”

Aria laughs and holds up the bag shaking it.

Layla rushes over.

“Did you get me one?”

“But of course,” Aria says sitting down at their kitchen island; Layla joining her.

“Where’s Yolanda?”

“She took a late shift at the hospital.”

“She’s been doing that a lot lately, huh?”

“Rent’s not cheap in Manhattan.”

“I know, she’s really been carrying us for the past few weeks.”

“You know Yoyo, she’s always gotta be taking care of someone.”

“No wonder she became a nurse,” Aria says laughing and taking a bite of her taco.

***

Aria places the rest of the food in the fridge with a post it note on the fridge door.

Yoyo,

Sorry we missed you. Tacos on me. Thanks for always taking care of us. Job hunting bright and early tomorrow morning.

Love you,
Ari  ❤

Aria stands in the middle of her kitchen, Layla kisses her cheek and starts to walk back toward her room.

“Hey Lay, I’m gonna just go take a walk.”

“It’s a little late, no?”

“I won’t be long.”

“You want me to go with you?”

“No go back to sleep, I just need to clear my head,” she says smiling.

“Ok well, I’m not going to be able to sleep til I know your back. Take your phone.”

“Ok,” Aria says laughing as she grabs her purse and heads out the door.

“Don’t be long- it’s late.” Layla yells after her.

***

Aria walks the darkened streets, her eyes glazing over her surroundings. People walking their dogs, couples sharing food truck meals, New York City really is the city that never sleeps, she thinks.

Aria decides to take a stroll through the park. She finds herself on a park bench just sitting there in silence staring up at the sky and the few stars that managed to break through the bright city lights.

Joggers squishing by her- one by one.

“Aria?”

Aria’s head springs forward, and an athletically dressed Liam comes into view.

“Mr. Whitmore, Hi. I was a little spaced out there, I’m sorry” she says laughing.

Is there an award for cutest laugh ever? He thinks.

“Aria, love, how many times are we going to need to run into each other, before you realize you can call me Liam?” he says laughing as he removes his headphones.

“Oh,” she says smiling.

“What brings you out so late?”

“Nothing really,” she says shrugging and looking away, the weight of the world on her mind.

“Really? Because you seemed like you were pretty lost in your thoughts there.”

“I suppose your right,” Aria says with a smile.

“Do you want to talk about it, I’ve been told I’m a pretty good listener.”

“Oh, that’s ok, I don’t want to disturb your…what are you doing here?” she says out of sorts and mentally kicking herself for looking like a total gym rat.

“I was going for a jog, I usually try to go every night, because it helps me to calm my brain down just enough to allow myself to sleep a wink,” he says smirking.

“Does it work?”

“Sometimes.” He smiles.

Aria nods and looks down at her hands, lost in thought.

Liam notices.

“Aria? How bought some ice cream?”

“It’s like midnight?” she says laughing.”

“Oh don’t worry the truck will still be there, it always is.”

“Really?”

“Mm hmm, come on,” he says cocking his head toward the direction of the ice cream truck.

“You’re serious?” she says looking up at him with a smile.

“Oh I don’t joke about ice cream, love.”

Aria gives him a side eye and then laughing she stands up and joins him.

“Ok, you sold me. Lead the way,” she says as he smiles brightly.

***

Liam grabs the ice cream cones from the ice cream truck lady and hands the chocolate one with rainbow sprinkles to Aria as he takes a lick of his vanilla with chocolate sprinkles.

“Thank you,” she smiles taking a lick of hers.

Liam gestures to the nearby table and chairs as Aria follows and sits down.

“So what’s on your mind?”

“Ugh,” Aria smiles looking away.

“I’m prying. I’m sorry.” Liam says kindly, not wanting to chase her off.

Aria locks eyes with him.

“No, you’re not. You’ve been nothing but a total sweetheart. I’m sorry I’m just…overwhelmed. I have this big showcase coming up at my dance academy and it’s kind of a huge deal for me. I have to choreograph an entire performance and it’s kind of my last big shot for dance companies to see my work.”

“Why is it your last shot?”

“The academy is pretty expensive and so is Manhattan rent. And I’m not exactly in my prime…”

Liam’s brow furrows as he smirks, confused. Aria smiles and clarifies.

“As a dancer 28 is considered old to break into the industry.”

“Ah…well if your body isn’t considered a work of art, I don’t know what is,” Liam says and then mentally kicks himself when he realizes the words he thought were actually voiced out loud.

Aria freezes and looks up at him. Instant blush.

“I’m sorry, that was forward of me. I just meant you seem to work at your craft, often. It shows. I am sure you deserve this shot, along with many others.”

“Thank you,” Aria says licking her ice cream cone to stop it from dripping.

Liam looks at her, studying her movements, he spots a bit of ice cream on her lower lip and instinctively reaches over and wipes it off with his thumb, licking his thumb after.
Aria gets caught off guard, as does Liam. Why does this suddenly feel like normal behavior for them?

Damn, he thinks. Damn, she thinks, a tingle running through her.

They lock eyes and then both shake it off.

“So do you have anything so far…for the showcase?”

“Just 5 different starts to 5 different routines. I just can’t nail anything down. I don’t know what these companies are looking for.”

“Maybe that’s the problem, you’re trying to do a routine based on what you think they want to see, instead of just doing your own thing.”

“You’re probably right, I just can’t seem to get out of my head.”

“Oh, don’t I know the feeling,” Liam says with a laugh as he tosses their garbage in the nearby trash.

Aria smiles her thanks.

“I can imagine. Your line of work probably gets pretty stressful for you.”

Liam nods, smiling.

“So what’s been keeping you up at night?” Aria says.

They lock eyes and suddenly the former sentence is laced with sexuality.

Liam looks down with a laugh.

You have no idea, love, he thinks.

Aria notices, “I meant with your job, you seem to be running your troubles away. And being that you were kind enough to buy me ice cream AND let me vent to you, the least I can do is lend you an ear,” she says laughing nervously as she thanks god for the smooth recovery.

“There are parts of my job that I just adore. I love art, I love finding new artists that we get to show to the world, I love this city, I love the energy. But then there’s a huge part that I just…hate. The crunching numbers, and dealing with stogy old businesses man who wouldn’t know art if it hit them between the eyes, or worse the young guys that just want to party their savings away at strip clubs and on expensive vacations. ”

“The corporate monster, rears its ugly head.”

“Art and money…sometimes they just-”

“Don’t mix? Yea, I completely understand.”

Liam nods.

“So have you ever thought about changing your job, I mean there has to be a way where you could be more involved in the artistic side of things? I mean if that’s truly where your heart lies.”

“It is and I’ve thought about it a lot, and I would love to. But the business is a family business, it’s been around for years, my father ran it, his father before him, and so on, and so forth. My father recently passed so I am next at the helm, and the only son, so the pressure is on me to deliver.”

“I’m so sorry, that sounds incredibly difficult.”

“Some days are easy,” he says smiling up at her.

Aria smiles back.

“I have to say it’s weird seeing you in something other than a suit!” she says laughing.

“I know, contrary to popular belief I do own other clothes,” he says laughing.

“Good, comfort suits you,” she says smiling up at him.

“Thank you, I guess I’m trying to take your advice, and- what is it that you said-loosen up,” he says laughing as she smiles locking eyes with him.

Aria’s phone begins to ring.

“Oh I’m sorry it’s my cousin, I should get this.”

“Sure.” He smiles.

“Hello, hi yes I know, I’m sorry, I know. Ok yes, I’ll be home soon, ok bye,” Aria says standing up, Liam following suit.

“Sorry I should get going, I live with my two cousins and well one of them is home waiting up for me, because she knew it was kinda late. I know that might sound silly or childish, but we kinda look out for each other, we’re all each other has, so…”

“I don’t think that’s childish or silly at all, love.”

Aria smiles.

“Thank you for a really- unexpected, but really nice night,” she says smiling up at him.

“It was my pleasure,” Liam says smirking.

“Good night,” she says shyly as she begins to walk away.

Liam feels an intense rush of heavy energy as she passes him, his chest tightening, as his eyes follow her body, he doesn’t want her to leave.

“Aria.”

Aria’s heart skips a beat at the sound of his voice as she turns, not waiting to leave.

“Can I walk you home? It’s late.”

“I would like that.” She says smiling.

Liam beams on the inside as they begin their walk.

***

Aria and Liam stand in front of Aria’s apartment building- she’s fidgeting. He notices.

“Thank you so much for tonight, Liam,” she says smiling up at him.

“You called me Liam,” he says smirking brightly.

“Oh my god, I did, I’m so sorry!” she says covering her face.

“Stop it, It’s ok, I told you to. That is my name, ya know,” he says laughing as he pulls her hands from her face and down to her side.

Their eyes lock as Aria’s butterflies grow and her skin crawls with electric energy.

Liam lets go, coughing away his nerves and distancing himself.

“Good night, Mr. Whitmore,” Aria says sexier and more flirtatious then she intended to.

Liam feels a flutter in his stomach as his eyes flicker, mirroring the same flirtation.

“You pierce my heart, love,” he says smirking holding his chest jokingly.

Aria laughs as she walks up her stoop stairs to her door.

“Call me if you need a job. I know the whole 2 week temp gig may not be that appealing, but we can always find you something more stable. It’s a big company, love.”

“I may just take you up on that,” Aria says shocking even herself.

“I look forward to it,” he says smirking.

“Good night, again.” She says unlocking her door.

“Good night.” He says walking off into the night wearing the biggest grin on his face and his heart.

Aria walks off the elevator to her loft apartment, as she walks in, she leans against her door and just stands there for a beat thinking, she closes her eyes and inhales deeply, followed by a deep exhale.

“Shit,” she says to herself.

Liam walks into his home, and tosses his workout bag to the side. In a complete daze he floats to his fridge to grab a Gatorade.

Taking a sip he sits on his couch, pondering his luck tonight.

I didn’t even have to plan that run in, maybe the universe is on my side, he thinks.

My god, she just gets more beautiful every time I see her. Even in sweats, she’s flawless. That body, my god.

The thoughts that followed were a bit scandalous for a man of Liam’s polish and “prestige” to entertain…or at least to admit to entertaining.

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

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

-<3-

Move- Chapter 3

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 2 HERE

Liam sits at his desk, clicking about on his computer.

His screen reads… City Sky Caterers recent status update.

City Sky Caterers will be catering a business mixture tonight at Hilton Hotel @ 8PM

All Manhattan businesses invited!

Liam’s eyes sparkle as his lips curve into a smirk.

***

Meet Molly

Aria rushes into a fancy hotel, straightening her white button down and black pencil skirt. 

Mr. Lee watches her enter. He arrogantly checks his watch.

“Your lucky Lenz. This time,” he says coldly.

Aria stops and glances his way, as workers shuffle about setting up for yet another big Manhattan event.

“Is there something you’d like to say?”

Aria glares at him.

“Because it’d be a shame if you lost your job. How on earth will you pay for those dance classes you’ve been taking? Although I don’t suppose they’re working considering what a klutz you are… how could you possibly know how to dance?” he chuckles under his breath.

Aria’s glare intensifies.

“Nothing to say? No? That’s what I thought,” he says turning on his heel.

“You are such a dick,” Aria says loudly, her hands on her hips, chin held high, feet firm.

The whole room stills. Silence. All eyes on Aria then suddenly darting between her and Mr. Lee. Her friends all fearing what comes next.

“What did you say to me?” he says turning toward her, his hands clenching into fists, the vein on his temple becoming more prominent by the second.

“Did I stutter?” Aria asks with gleaming confidence.

A gasp escapes a co-worker named Molly’s lips involuntarily as she watches.

Mr. Lee’s eyes narrow, as he bares his teeth like a wolf, the war between he and Aria just beginning. How dare she undermine his power!

“You’re fi-“

“No YOU are done talking to me that way. You think your better than me? Why because you were once a preppy youth with a trust fund, a little rich boy on a power trip. And then what? You got too old to actually do anything with your life. Your shit stinks just like the rest of us. I dare you to try lasting even one second in my shoes, in any of our shoes. It’s not easy going after your dream. It takes everything you have. But you don’t have the balls you measly little excuse for a man. So you come in here everyday and try to feel better about yourself by ordering people around. Well no more.”

Aria unties her apron, dropping it at his feet.

“I quit,” she says walking out swiftly.

For the first time ever- Mr. Lee is stunned speechless.

A few of Aria’s co-worker friends drop their aprons too.

“Yea if she’s out, I’m out, she’s the only reason this job was borderline bearable,” Molly says heading for the exit.

“Me too,” Kevin says.

“Wait for me!” Blake calls following suit.

Waitresses, waiters, dish cleaners, cooks all filing out after Aria.

Aria steps outside the hotel and exhales the breath she’s been holding in since she started working for that horrible man. She hears footsteps coming up behind her.

She turns being greeted by her co-workers.

“That. Was. Awesome,” Molly says with a smile.

“You guys, what did you do?” Aria asks with concern.

“We quit,” Blake says.

Aria’s eyes go wide.

“I appreciate you all backing me up, but you didn’t have to lose your income too!”

“Oh please, Aria you are the only reason we all would come to work. You made it tolerable and now that your gone, there’s no reason to stay,” Molly says.

“Really?”

“Yea, we all love you. You leave, we leave,” Kevin says.

“Aw you guys!” she says hugging them.

“So now what do we do now that we’re all unemployed?” Blake says.

“Get drunk?” Aria says with a laugh and a shrug of her shoulders.

“Hell yes!” Kevin says, as they all laugh and turn to head in the direction of the nearest bar.

A black sleek car pulls up as a familiar face steps out, buttoning his suit jacket.

Aria locks eyes with Liam.

“Aria?” he says with a smile.

“Mr. Whitmore. Good evening,” she says her eyes avoiding his.

“Evening love. Are you working tonight’s event?”

Aria looks at her coworkers.

“Not anymore,” she says with a small smile.

“Oh?”

“We all kind of just quit,” she says still avoiding his eyes.

“Yea she called our boss a dick and then threw her apron at him,” Blake blurts out.

Liam’s eyes widen.

“It was slightly less aggressive than it sounds,” Aria says laughing.

That laugh, Liam thinks.

“Well I’ve met your boss, my bet is, (Liam leans in and whispers) he deserved it. Have a good night, love,” Liam says suavely as he walks past them toward the hotel entrance.

Molly’s eyes flow from his retreating figure and over to Aria.

“Oh my god,” she mouths.

Aria rolls her eyes.

“Mr. Whitmore!” Molly calls out.

“What are you doing?” Aria whispers to her, grabbing her hand.

“Shh,” Molly says squatting Aria away. “Half the staff quit, this event is going to suck, why don’t you just come join us for a drink instead, help us celebrate our freedom!”

“Um-” Liam ponders, wanting to say yes but unsure if it would be awkward for Aria.

“Molly. I’m sure Mr. Whitmore has better things to do.”

This is my shot, she needs to know I’m interested, he thinks.

“Well considering my plans just literally walked out the door, I guess I could go for a drink.”

Molly gives Aria a look of satisfaction.

“Right this way,” Molly says gesturing.

Liam smiles walking, as the guys introduce themselves to him, he shakes their hands, internally sizing each of them up. Are these two competition, he thinks.

Molly admires Liam’s build, getting lost for a beat.

Aria waves her hand in front of Molly’s line of vision. She snaps back.

“How do you know him?”

“He was at the last event…he helped me out with Lee.”

“He’s the business billionaire who came to your rescue. The one who actually got Lucifer Lee to apologize to you?”

“Yup. But let’s be clear about something– I didn’t need rescuing.”

Molly rolls her eyes.

“Oh my god he could rescue me all he wants. He is hot!”

“Really, You think so?” Aria says following Molly as they try and catch up to the guys.

“You don’t?” Molly says making a face of confusion.

Aria ponders as she walks.

***

 

The gang walks into the bar.

Molly pulls Liam’s hand toward the counter, Aria shakes her head. Shameless, she thinks.

Liam glances back at Aria who chats with Kevin and Blake.

“Are we drinking here, or what?” Molly screams.

Aria laughs as she walks over.

“I’ll have a beer,” Aria tells the bartender.

“Make that two,” Blake says walking over to join.

“Three,” Kevin yells from the corner where he plays an old fashioned arcade game.

“Three beers it is,” the bartender says.

“Mr. Whitmore?” Aria says turning toward him.

“Aria, I think you can call me Liam now, love,” he says laughing.

“Ok Liam. (she lets out a small laugh) What would you like?” she says smiling.

Liam’s heart beat quickens. That smile. Those lips, he thinks. His eyes flicker from her glossy plump lips back up to her brown sparking eyes. Molly notices.

“Uh, beer’s good,” Liam says trying to snap out of it.

“Make that 4 Bobby,” Aria says smiling at the Bartender.

“You got it,” Bobby says popping off another beer cap and handing her the bottles.

Aria hands out the beers, her hand grazing Liam’s as she hands him his.

Molly holds up her fruity Malibu By Breeze in hand, signaling a toast. A smirk dancing on her lips as she clearly has caught onto the fact that Liam has ulterior motives.

“Cheers, to unemployment. May god be with us all!” Aria says raising her beer.

“Long live the job hunt!” Blake shouts as their drinks clink.

“Excuse me, I need to borrow Aria for just a second, enjoy the testosterone.” Molly says dragging Aria to the side. Aria starts to sip her beer, waiting for Molly to say whatever crazy thing she feels she needs to say, right at this very moment.

“Well well well, I do believe Mr. Whitmore is rather soft on you, Ms. Lenz.”

“What?” Aria says nearly spitting out her sip of beer.

“He’s soft on you.”

“Soft? What are you from the 1940’s?”

“Fine…I think he wants to bang your brains out… happy?”

“Ew, really Mol, why so vulgar?”

“Welcome to 2017.”

Aria rolls her eyes.

“You’re out of your mind.”

“Aria. I’m serious the way he’s been eyeing you, he wants you.”

“No he doesn’t, stop it.”

“Fine, don’t believe me,” Molly says walking off, “You know I’m right!” she calls as she heads back to the bar.

Aria leans against the nearby pool table, sipping her beer in contemplation.

There’s no way, a guy like Liam Whitmore is interested in me. No. Way.

Liam notices her alone and walks over.

“Are you okay, love?”

“Yea,” she smiles.

“Are you worried?”

“Yea,” she smiles again locking eyes with him.

“Look, I know that this may not be the ideal job opportunity… but my secretary is going on vacation for two weeks, I could use a temp. Maybe it’ll buy you some time while you look for something else.”

“Oh my gosh, really? You would do that?”

“Sure,” he smiles excited to be able to make her even the slightest bit happy.

“Liam. I couldn’t ask you to do that.”

“You didn’t-pretty sure I offered,” he smirks.

Aria looks up at him. The tension thick. The body language and proximity close.

Their hands touch as they both lean against the pool table. Aria notices and moves it away quickly.

“Just think about it. The offer will be there if you want it,” he says reaching into his suit pocket and handing her a business card.

“Thank you,” Aria says smiling and taking it.

Liam melts. There’s that award winning smile again, he thinks.

Aria looks at him again.

“Forgive me, but if you’re going to hangout with us, this tie has to go,” she says reaching up and untying it for him.

Liam’s eyes lock on hers.

“You’re gonna have to learn how to loosen up a little,” She says smiling and loosening his collar up. “There much better.”

Liam smirks, his heart beating out of his chest. He’s doing everything in his power not to grab her and just kiss her.

“Dually noted, love,” he whispers leaning in a little.

Aria feels her stomach tighten as butterflies flutter about.

Liam’s phone begins to ring interrupting their sexually charged moment.

He internally sighs and looks at the phone.

“I’m sorry love, I’ve got to take this, excuse me,” he says walking to the side.

Molly rushes over.

“Oh my god,” her eyes smiling “What did he say…did he ask you out?”

“No. He offered me a job.”

“A job? Ew. That’s no fun.”

Little did either of them know how wrong Molly would be.

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

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

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Move- Chapter 2

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 1 HERE

Liam attempts to walk casually into a nearby quaint coffee shop.

She’s been here, he knows this. His eyes scan the room, searching for a glimmer of hope. Searching for her chocolate colored eyes.

Just because she’s been here before, doesn’t mean she’s a regular- nor does it mean she’ll be here today, one can only hope that coincidence is on my side, Liam, thinks.

Yes. You Facebook stalked Liam. You sunk low my friend, he thinks loudly as he gets in line to order something. Guess when you want something bad enough, you’ll do just about anything…

“Next,” the barista says as she smiles up at Liam.

“Hello, good afternoon,” he replies with a smile.

“Afternoon. What can I get you?”

“I will have (his eyes scan the menus posted on the walls behind her) the turkey club on rye, a bottle of water, and a regular small coffee.”

“You got it,” she says punching it into her register as she places the order slip on a conveyer line for the cook to read.

“That’ll be $15.72”

Liam reaches for his wallet.

 

*******

 

Walking away from the counter, Liam heads towards a table in the far corner to set himself up.

Strategic placing of course- from here I can see the span of the entire room, and there is a perfect view of the door, in case anyone rather interesting happens to come walking through, he thinks.

Liam begins eating his sandwich as he flips through his phone emails, replying to a few here and there.

Every now and again the door would open and his head would impulsively lift and look over.

No sign of his brunette beauty. Damn it, he thinks. This whole stalking thing is harder than I thought, he thinks, jokingly.

Liam checks his watch and starts to collect his garbage.

Lunch breaks always flew by for him.

Sadly, it’s back to the office, he thinks. I could wait here watching for her, forever.

Just then the door opens and in she walks. Her walk more of a stride, No a saunter. Her hips swaying from left to right. Her tight pink dress fitting her in the best possible way. Only some things someone who was intently watching could pick up on.

Liam freezes. His eyes glued.

Wow, she’s even sexier, the second time around, he thinks.

Aria steps up to the counter.

Liam cocks his head to the side, admiring a certain Latin enhanced part of her body. Internally and externally Liam blushes, knowing he’s usually a more discreet man.

“Hey Lynn,” she says with a smile at the barista.

“Aria sweetie, there you are! We were wondering if you switched coffee spots on us!”

“Are you kidding me! No one makes a better cup of coffee than you! It’s just work and school have just been crazy, I’ve literally been working, eating, dancing, sleeping. ”

Liam’s ears perk up to listen. Her voice like an electric jolt to his heart strings. Definitely striking some chords for sure. 

School? She can’t still be in college? He thinks. Can she? Liam scolds at himself, mentally.

His eyes look her over as he sits back down in his seat for a beat, pretending to answer more emails.

Liam’s gaze intensifies.

Aria walks to a table across from him and sits, she takes out a book and starts to read and she sips on her iced coffee, her muffin nearby for picking.

Liam’s heart begins to race, his palms starting to perspire.

He loosens his tie, as he leans back in his seat, his eyes not missing a beat. Admiring the fine art before him.

Watching her -she sweeps her hair to the left side, she props her chin up with her arm as she reads.

Her manicured fingers flip through the pages effortlessly as her brow furrows, then her lips curve into a smile as she continues reading.

Every movement more perfect then the last, he thinks.

Liam wants so badly to just walk over and talk to her.

But he knows how it would come off. Stalker.

So he waits, he watches, gathering evidence.

Next time it’ll be different, he thinks.

Until then, love, he thinks, as he gets up- exiting the coffee shop, his future feeling more colorful then usual.

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Hey readers! I realize this chapter took a while to get up and it is on the shorter side, and that’s mostly because I’m a little stuck when it comes to this story. I have so much in mind for the middle of the story but the beginning has been difficult to start. I’ve been avoiding and I don’t want to get in that rut. So I do apologize for the delay and I apologize if this is not my best chapter, but I think we’re just setting the stage, we’re just getting started here people. There’s been a lot going on in my life and also when it comes to Short Story posts, they take some time to write and get up and I’ve just been posting other things that take a little less time to “produce.” You may have also noticed my posting schedule has been kind of all over the place lately, again- I do apologize. I am going to really try and get back into a Monday/Thursday schedule this Summer. And I really would like to make some fun changes this Summer, let’s hope we can get some of them done! xo-Michelle Leigh

 

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

-<3-