Love 101

Chapter 5- Story 2

An Unexpected Connection

Story 2- An Unexpected Connection

Juliette looked around the room for a familiar face at her office party. She sighed as she watched her co-worker Cassandra, talking and flirting with the guy from Human Resources. Sandra winked at Juliette making her even more annoyed that she came to this party. Cassandra had convinced her to attend and demonstrate comradery and support of the company. Juliette did not do crowds and liked her personal space. Juliette preferred to be at home watching her favorite television series Law and Order. She made her way over to one of the waiters taking some fruit punch as she headed outside near the pool. Nicholas McFall watched the lovely woman across the room who did not mingle with anyone. She seemed reserved and a bit out of place at the party. He could tell right away she was not the type who was into parties. However, she captured his attention in every way. She was simply breathtaking. Nicolas wanted to find out more about the mysterious woman.

Juliette sat in one of the lounge chairs near the pool. She leaned back and momentarily closed her eyes for a brief moment. "A pleasant good night," Nicholas said standing next to her. "Can I sit here?" he asked. Juliette saw the handsome stranger appear suddenly. "If you like," Juliette said not wanting to be rude. It was obvious to her he had been watching her because she intentionally slipped off the radar near the pool. She avoided guys for the entire night and curiously wondered about this man who seemed adamant and persistent in attempting to converse with her. Nicholas smiled and sat in a chair next to her. He could not believe how lovely she was. Seeing her across the room could not compare to being in her presence now. She was breathtaking.

"Are you enjoying the party?" he asked starting the conversation. "Not really. I prefer my alone time," Juliette said dropping a hint that she was not interested in small talk. Nicholas picked up on her feelings and was not at all deterred. "I was not feeling it until seeing you," he said. "Looking across the room at your beautiful face made the evening worthwhile," he explained. Okay, I am dealing with a smooth talker, Juliette concluded.

"That's sweet but is that all you have? I am sure that line worked on many other ladies but not me. You seemed to be a very nice guy but I am not interested," Juliette said. "Ouch, I am hurt," Nicholas joked trying to stare into those pretty eyes. "However, you are a woman in my eyes, strikingly gorgeous and persistent in doing everything to paint a picture you are not unavailable," Nicolas announced. "But you can't blame a guy for trying when you have a light and strong presence. I am Nicholas by the way and it is a pleasure to meet you. I would love to know your name. If you don't tell me I will simply lay next to you and enjoy your company in quiet," he said politely. Juliette was shocked by his response. He was different and she found herself intrigued. She called his bluff and watched him lie down in the lounge chair in silence for a few minutes.

Juliette did not know if she was annoyed or if his strategy worked. She felt convicted to share her name. She blurted out, "My name is Juliette." Nicholas smiled inwardly knowing she was a tough cookie. But he was up for the challenge. "Well, Juliette I just might be your Romeo," he teased. Juliette rolled her eyes and they both started to laugh.

"Wow, she finally smiles," Nicholas gasped looking at her. "You should never hide that gorgeous smile," he continued. Juliette looked at him and smiled again. Their eyes connected. Her gut told her that Nicholas was far from being satisfied until he knew everything about her.