Starting Over

chapter twenty-one

Scarlett

The gala is everything I knew it would be.

Lavish, expensive and beautifully decorated, yet full of rude and self-absorbed people, the kind that would do anything to step on anyone else to get where they need to go.

Making my way over to the bar, I take a glass of champagne from the silver tray, keeping my eyes peeled for the one person I need to speak to, then I can say I'm feeling unwell and leave.

"Scarlett! You look gorgeous dear."

I spin around sharply when I hear my name.

"Hi Linda, so do you." Her red shimmering dress cascades around her as she walks towards me.

"Did you think anymore about my offer?"

"I'm still thinking. I'll let you know soon."

I forgot to mention it to Brody with how busy this week was, but I really would like his opinion on the matter before I make a final decision. There is going to be a position opening up as an assistant and Linda recommended me for it. It would be a great opportunity for me to get off the front desk to be honest.

"Alright dear, excuse me."

As she leaves, my eyes scan the room. I feel so out of place here, no one really knows me as I don't really conversate with anyone at work. I mean, I don't really have a lot in common with most people I work with.

Hovering near the buffet I eye up the little pastries that are sat on the plate infront of me. I'm about to pick one up when I hear Ryan's voice behind me. I freeze, keeping my back to him.

"So everything is going well then?" An older voice speaks.

"Yes sir. She should be here any moment."

"Fantastic. I can't wait to meet her. And well done with going with it, in no time we will be giving you that promotion, all you have to do next is make Scarlett your wife. Pretty little thing isn't she, we picked you a good one there."

My eyes widen at this mans words.

What the fuck?!

My heart pulses in my ears, my vision blurs, the music in the room is blocked out by my brain trying to process everything.

I steady my breathing as I spin round, Ryan's face pales as his eyes meet mine.

"Scarlett-"

"Don't you dare say my name." I spit. Anger is burning inside of me.

"Ahh such a pleasure, I'm Nick, Ryan's boss." He holds his hand out to me and I just stare at him. Like I'm going to shake his hand, knowing he apparently cooked this whole thing up with Ryan, this thing being our relationship.

"Alright then, well enjoy your night both of you." Nick walks away winking at Ryan and I clench my jaw so tight I'm surprised I don't break any teeth.

"So what, our entire relationship was a lie? That you were with me because you wanted a fucking promotion?!"

Ryan glances around as people start to stare, I'm not shouting but I'm not being quiet either.

"Let's go outside and talk." He grips my arm, pulling me outside, away from all the guests.

"You have thirty seconds to explain yourself right now." I fold my arms across my chest, while I glare at him, tears spilling down my cheeks.

"It's not-"

"The fucking truth Ryan!"

"Okay! Fine! I was with you because we thought it looked good! When we first had that meeting at your work, Nick spotted you on reception and said your the type of girl to have on your arm to impress the bosses."