Diamond in the Making

2. Exhaust Cries

I guess it's true what they say, good things come when you least expect it. Nate is definitely a good thing and I was not expecting to run into him. I didn't have high expectations, I didn't even know if I would see him again. But life tends to give you exactly what you need.

Getting ready for work this morning took me longer. I had to take extra time to cover up the hickey that Nate gave me. I put a bit of concealer on it and left my hair down. But I wasn't really complaining, I loved every minute of it.

When I got to work, everything was as it usually is. But somehow today felt different. Other than my pounding headache from my hangover, my mind kept going back to the guy who gave me a hickey. I couldn't let this affect my work so I tried to push my thoughts aside and focus on my work.

"Zara, you have a meeting at 11 with Mr. Harris," Sienna told me.

I thanked her and headed into my office. I've never met with a Mr. Harris before but I do have meetings often with people who are looking to create custom pieces.

It was around 9:00 now so I decided to go into my workshop in the back to make some of my designs. I was very immersed in my work when someone knocked at the door.

"Mr. Harris is here" Sienna said.

"Ok I'm coming."

I stretched my hands and walked towards the front of the store. Hearing my heels click on the white marble floor makes me feel empowered with every step.

Sienna gave me a nod directing me to Mr. Harris. "Hi Mr. Harris, I'm Zara. It's nice to meet you." I held my hand out for him to shake, but once he turned around I froze. I was met with the same mysterious deep blue eyes from last night. It was like I was looking at the ocean. He slowly brought my hand up to his lips and placed a delicate kiss on it. This gave me flashbacks from last night and the butterflies returned. He slowly brought my hand down, he said "it's good to see you again Zara."

Time seemed to stay still as I stared into his eyes and noticed the huge sexy grin on his lips. I had to stop myself from remembering how good his lips taste. Once I finally got a grip, I directed him to my office. When I closed the door behind us, he stood in front of me. Nate brought his hand up gently touching my cheek then running his fingers through my hair. He pushed my hair behind my shoulder to reveal what I attempted to hide.

He smirked in satisfaction and said "nice try in covering it up but I can still see it."

I jokingly pushed his hands away. He chuckled and said "maybe next time you will do a better job." Giving me a wink.

Choosing to avoid his flirty comment, we got straight into business. He told me he wanted to get a ring made for his mother with a stone he had. He pulled out a Burma ruby and my eyes went wide. This must be worth millions. I am a serious sucker for a beautiful stone.

"You like it?" He asked me. I was quiet as I sat in shock with the ruby in my hands.

"I love it. I've never seen anything like it. It's gorgeous." I replied.

Then he softly whispered "just like you." I don't think he wanted me to hear it but I did.

Later we got into the designs for the ring and once everything was agreed upon, I was expecting him to leave but he didn't. He sat there watching me for a minute then he broke the silence.

"I am truly astound by your work, it's incredible. And I must say you have my curiosity peaked. I want to take you up on your offer from last night." He said watching my every move. I didn't crack under his hard glare, I just kept looking into those blue eyes.