The Space Between

Chapter 23; Temptations

Sarah looked at her reflection in the mirror. The long black dress shone as it's emerald gems reflected the light. The dress wasn't completely hugging her figure but it was just tight around the waist as it had a flow effect from waist down. Maroon scarf on her head complemented the heels she wore in the same colour. Her makeup was light with a subtle red lipstick. It was enough to emphasise her grey eyes and she looked absolutely stunning. The shopping spree she went on with her friend really gave her a chance to relax and talk to someone about what was on her mind. After she had told Lale the whole story, she felt a lot lighter. Her friend did admit, however, that she didn't exactly have an answer for her on what to do since their story was quite different but she did play the part of a good listener. That lifted her mood a lot and she decided to put Xavier's thoughts aside and focus on today. She wanted to enjoy with her friend and colleagues. Making sure that she had everything, she moved out after meeting her mother downstairs who kissed her forehead lovingly complimenting her again and again. Sarah smiled feeling happy and ready to have a good time.

Xavier stood in front of the tall mirror as he was headed down to the design department as to attend their team party. It wasn't usual for him to attend all or any small office party but lately he had noticed he hadn't been doing anything his usual way. He couldn't help but think how Sarah might dress for the occasion. He was excited but also worked up. He knew that no matter what she wore she would still look gorgeous yet the thought of men looking at her had him clenching his jaw. He knew that he wanted to push her away and keep her safe but this was the woman who he had loved for years. Who he had waited for. He remembered in high school his friends dating casually but he couldn't do so. Just the thought of that felt wrong. He was loyal to her before she even knew him properly. Now she was here just at arm’s reach, he still couldn't have her. Shaking his head, he never placed any conditions on his affection for her and never would.

Sarah's eyes turned wide at the arrangements made. The office had completely transformed. She had to double check thinking she might have come to the wrong place when a hand was seen waving at her at a distance. The hand belonged to none other than Rana calling her over with a glass on the other hand. Reaching her, she spoke her thoughts "Oh my God this place looks amazing and so different"
Sarah gushed and Rana also agreed
"I know right. By the way you look so hot gurll. Way to go" she hyped her friend up and Sarah laughed blushing.
"And you. This brown dress really compliments you well" Sarah said giving a thumbs up and a wink. Rana said bowing her head dramatically "why thank you my kind lady" The girls laughed. She was looking around and observed. Everyone was dressed so elegantly. She was nervous at first thinking she might be over dressed but she was rightfully suited. The golden lighting and a carpet. Disco ball and music playing on the background. She knew now that this company even did the small events extravagantly. Her eyes moved around taking it all in when they stopped at a certain someone. Xavier could barely hear what the lady was saying. His focus and attention has been stolen when Sarah walked in the room and it seemed that others had the same thoughts. He saw many guys stare at her and he just wanted to rip their eyes out which he couldn't since he was in a professional setting. Xavier held her stare as he sipped from the glass. Sarah's stare moved to his lips and he smirked knowingly. Sarah quickly turned her head resuming the conversation. Not understanding why her eyes fell on that particular feature of his face. In between though, Xavier walked up to them and Rana hushed down. Coming to stand between them, he greeted Rana first. "Hi. It's Rana Imtiaz right? Nice to meet you " He said nodding and Rana simply nodded back. Hurrying off, she walked away making excuse of grabbing snacks. Now it was just Sarah and Xavier left in a staring contest. "You look absolutely breathtaking tonight. I couldn't help but notice" Sarah looked down blushing but looked up once again after regaining her confidence.
"Thank you" She replied. Sarah's breath hitched seeing his expression. It really felt that he would devour her whole. His eyes were sending shivers down her spine. She didn't dare speak or move. Submissive under his dominant gaze. He looked to the side and saw many guys looking at her. Just as Xavier's cold eyes fell on them though, they looked away. One still dared to come forward. "Hello I'm Andrew. The one who sits across from you" The guy said as he smiled and Sarah smiled back after realising. "So you're the distracted drew"
"Yeah..." He said and they shared a laugh. Apparently he was named as distracted drew in the office because of his slip ups and blunders. "Here. Bought you a drink" He said handling her the glass but she looked at it awkwardly.
"I don't drink"
"Oh don't worry it's just apple juice "
Sarah was just about to grab it when Xavier jumped in taking the glass instead and putting it down. His stare dug into the man's soul. Andrew stared back just as hardly but his resolve slowly started to break.
Xavier couldn't help but feel a sudden burn of possessiveness in his chest. He wanted to hide her away. "Come with me" Xavier said grabbing her arm even before she had a chance to say anything. Sarah on the other hand was surprised to see this side of Xavier. She knew he had it but this was the first time he used it with her. They moved towards the elevator as everyone's eyes followed them. Sarah nervously tried to shake off his hold but he was strong. The elevator doors closed and that's when Sarah spoke angrily. "What is wrong with you. You can't just take me away like that in front of everyone. Now they are going to think something is going on between us"
Xavier looked at her and moved closer. His stare fixed on her and his expression tight as ever. Sarah suddenly lost all the ability to speak. Her back hit the wall. And Xavier's arm locked beside her head. He leaned down a bit. "Do you trust me?" He whispered staring in her eyes and all Sarah could muster was a yes in a small voice. He moved away. Pressing the button for parking, he spoke. "Good because I'm sure I saw that drew guy spike the drink with the intention of getting you drunk" . Sarah didn't know what to say. And was even surprised that he noticed. How was it that this man noticed even the small details others missed. She was in wonder. Following him out the elevator, they once again made their way to his reserved spot and once again Sarah was blown away by the slick car. She doesn't think, she'll ever get used to it. Before getting in though, she hesitated. "I don't think we should be going out like this "
Xavier had her door opened but he closed it and answered her first. "Just think of this as an old friend taking you out to dinner. Besides, I don't think I can leave at this party knowing that you might not be safe. But if this is too much for you, you can deny" Xavier waited after saying that. He actually had plans after this regarding business and the only reason he stayed at the party was for Sarah but it seemed as though he might not be going anywhere else tonight. Sarah on the other hand looked at him and then at the pathway towards the elevator. She finally made a decision.