Love Beyond Borders [ON-GOING]

CHAPTER 9: SUPRISES AND SECRETS

EILEEN'S POV

I was buzzing with excitement as I packed my things. I hadn't talked to Draven in days; he was too busy to respond to my messages. Maybe it was time to surprise him; I knew where he lived after all.

I tried calling Veronica, but she was swamped with work. In the end, I called a cab to take me to the airport.

Traveling wasn't new to me; I'd flown around the world with my family when I was nine.

Those trips were filled with laughter, adventure, and even a hint of romance.

I remembered my first crush from those days, a boy whose name I never got, but my dad knew his family well. They were business partners. But I didn't need to dwell on that now; I had my own adventure waiting for me.

DRAVEN'S POV

"Love, we really need to get going. We're going to be late for work," I said, hoping to shake off the lingering sleep.

Things were good with my new girlfriend, Love. I was enjoying our relationship, and I didn't want to complicate things by telling Eileen that I wasn't interested in her anymore.

Christmas was coming, and I wanted to spend it with Love.

"Fine, sweet pea. I guess we'll pick this up later," Love replied, kissing me softly. I felt a thrill in that moment I liked her.

Just then, my phone rang. It was Eileen. We hadn't talked in over a week. I thought she would have moved on by now, but she kept calling.

"Who was that?" Love asked, noticing my expression.

"It was just Noah. He needed help, but I told him I was busy," I said, trying to brush it off.

We stepped out of my apartment, leaving the lingering tension behind us.

NOAH'S POV

When Eileen called me asking for a ride from the airport, I was caught off guard. I had no idea she was coming, and I was puzzled as to why she hadn't told Draven. It felt like she was trying to surprise him.

I waited nervously in the arrivals area, my heart racing. I couldn't deny that I still had feelings for her, but I also knew I needed to keep my distance. We had just arrived at my house, which I usually occupied alone since my parents were off on a business trip.

"Good evening, sir! We've prepared the guest room for you," the nanny said, addressing Eileen.

"No, it's fine! I can handle my luggage," Eileen insisted, but the maid took it from her anyway.

As Eileen followed her into the house, I couldn't help but admire her. She seemed so genuine, so ordinary. My feelings for her intensified, but I knew I had to keep my distance for both our sakes.

"Sorry it took so long; the shower was amazing! I haven't had hot water in years," she said when she came downstairs, wearing an oversized shirt and shorts that somehow looked adorable.

"Wow, steak and mashed potatoes! I haven't had this in forever!" Eileen exclaimed as she started to eat. I couldn't help but smile; she was just so cute.

"Is there something funny?" she asked, a playful glint in her eyes.

"Nothing, just thinking how cute you are while eating," I replied, feeling a little embarrassed.

"Thanks, Noah. You're so generous. By the way, where are your parents?" she asked between bites.

"They're on a business trip in Italy," I said.

"Really? My parents are also away with my brother," Eileen replied, her tone turning serious. "It's my first Christmas without them. I doubt they'll even remember me because of work."

I noticed the sadness in her eyes. I wanted to ask her more about it but hesitated, not wanting to make things awkward. I remembered seeing a guy in her Instagram posts he looked familiar, but I couldn't quite place him.

After dinner, I started clearing the plates. I didn't want to disturb the maids, who might be resting. But Eileen insisted on washing the dishes.

"I'll wash them! I feel bad if you're the one doing all this, especially since I'm staying here for free," she said.

"No worries; I've got this," I replied, taking the plates from her. After we finished cleaning up, she settled onto the couch and started watching TV.

"Thank you, Noah," she said softly as I joined her with some chips and cola.

As I watched her, I felt an overwhelming urge to kiss her, but I reminded myself that she was still thinking about Draven.

"We should get some sleep. I'm exhausted, and I'm so excited to see him tomorrow. Goodnight, Noah," she said, heading toward her room.

As I lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, I couldn't shake the feeling that I wished I was the one she was surprising this Christmas.

To be continued...