Bee to my Barnes

part 5

The last month had flown past, every waking hour consumed by finalising deals and perfecting the plans today was the day of the Gala. Raising from your bed as the morning sun beams through the netting flowing from the open window casting an orange glow across the freshly painted walls, you run your hand through your hair letting the content smile spread across your face. "I'm doing it."

Shimmying up the bed, you let out a small yet exasperated sigh. City life looked amazing on you, the busy lifestyle and hectic workloads definitely kept your mind occupied helping you move on and find out passions, the nights were unbearably lonely at times.

Paul was becoming easier to forget with every moment that passed, the torment was the plague of the mysterious man you met so long ago. Each day that past made the notion of him existing seem further and further away, had it not been for the ever so slight scar on you temple you would dare to say it was all just a cruel dream.

The wander and absence was verging on insanity, how can a simple glance still haunt you after so long in comparison, yet every corner you turn, every bar you enter you search for his eyes.

Each night was the same, repeating the events over and over, his entrancing eyes have become home. Your anchor in this world you are yet to find your feet in. Not being able to help yourself you imagined his life. Did he like to run? Or play golf? I wonder if he lives locally or is visiting for business? Maybe he lives in England?...No, I'm suuure it was a Brooklyn accent.

Frustrated at the hazed memories you flop out of bed, not resisting the urge to run your fingers across the smooth silk of your gown hanging from your wardrobe, steel blue just like him.

Collecting your luggage, zipping the gown into the protective bag you head outside to flag down a cab. Your supposed to be meeting Jade at the hotel by 11 to get ready and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Pulling up to the hotel you can already see the catering service in full swing unloading their supplies as Jade directs the traffic through the foyer.

Letting out a squeal of excitement seeing the floral arrangements framing the walkways, the red carpet laid out smoothly was an elegant complement to the golden detailing of the glass doors. Heading to the rooftop terrace, the tables were being dressed in white satin, tall ivy and rose centre pieces decorating each table strung with pearls and tea lights glowing in the early summer sun. Jade wrapped her arms from behind around your shoulders peeping at the masterpiece you created unfolding in front of your eyes. 'It's perfect Trix'.

Leaning your head in to meet hers you stroke her forearm proud of your work.

Back in the hotel room make-up and hair products scattered every available surface as you both pampered and preened your way to perfection. Jade strolls into the room, with a loud pop the cork cannoned across the room followed by the bubbles flowing into two crystal flute glasses. before handing one to you she hesitates, 'I am so happy your here with me, it means so much to be able to share these things with you. Your my best friend and this truly hasn't been home without you babe!'

Your cheeks instantly flushing from the rare genuine affection, you let out a smirk tilting your head, 'Jade Hamilton, are you getting soft with me?'

Moving her glass away mid sip she cackles 'Don't make it weird, you know what I mean.'

With a light ruffle of your hair Jade turned to leave, returning wearing a deep blush gown, hugging her frame before flaring out melting across the floor at her feet. 'wow....Jay, you look stunning!'

'Got to look my best' she said smugly tossing her golden locks over her shoulder to reveal her silky golden skin. 'Let's do this.'

Ready to take on the night, you link arms and head out down the hallway towards the lifts.

'Oh before we head up I need to check in with security, just make sure everything is in place. It will just take a moment do you mind?' Not that Jade waited for an answer as she hit the descend button. The steel doors opened smoothly, as you step inside a plump middle aged man with dark curly hair contrasting his silver goatee warmly greats you both.

'Hi Happy' Beamed Jade, her face lighting up at the sight of an unexpected friend as she lent in for a hug. 'I didn't realise you were working tonight?'

'Miss Hamilton, pleasure to see you as always, going down?' pressing the ground floor button Jade introduced you to happy, the head of security and explained you would be checking in with Mr Barnes around the arrangements for the evening. Escorting you from the elevator you both make your way across the foyer.

Suddenly, halting mod glide as your body solidifies from your toes up, you grab Jade's arm. Your strappy heels now rooted firmly into the marble flooring, unable to move.

'Its him, Jay, he's here. ..h. he's real' You blurt while trying to reiterate the shock and importance of your words unable to remove your gaze from the tall, devilishly handsome man stood besides the entrance. Dressed in a pure black suit, he raised his masculine hand to neatly tuck the loose stands of hair behind his ear to better observe that cool firm expression you had pictured every day for the last month. Oh how your recollection had not failed you!