CHAPTER 10

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“She wasnt exactly sure when it happened. Or even when it started. All she knew for sure was that right here and now, she was falling hard and she could only pray that he was feeling the same way.”-- Nicholas Sparks, Safe Haven.

~

Autumn hurried down the stairs of the apartment building, looking down and feeling stifled. She just wanted to get out and get some fresh air. She felt like the walls were closing in on her. She always felt that when she was angry or upset and what Haley had said had made her feel both of those feelings.

She could hear Nathan’s footsteps trying to catch up with her. She knew she wouldn’t be this forward if she hadn’t got a head start and she also knew that it was only a matter of time before he would catch up to her.

She heard him say from behind “For someone wearing a gown and heels you’re really quick!”

She didn’t reply and kept walking. She could see the door of the complex so she increased her pace to reach the door as soon as possible. She burst it open with both her hands and stepped out into the cool night air of London. It was cold, but all she could feel was freedom.

She stood there, motionless and breathing heavily. She could feel the buzz of vehicles moving past and pedestrians hurrying past her to live their daily lives. She began thinking about what Haley had said. This brought back memories of hurtful things she has heard over the years. No, not now she thought. She suppressed her emotions again. She had mastered that art over the years.

 She saw Nathan come through the door from the corner of her eye. He stood next to her and waited “I’m okay.” She said, before he could ask her anything. “It wasn’t a big deal. I’ve heard worse.”

“Do you still want to go?”

“More than I’ve ever wanted to go anywhere in my life.” She said with a brisk nod.

He smiled and they began walking to Nathan’s tinted blue Prius.

#

Autumn could hear the slow music from inside even before opening the door. The translucent glass of the revolving door allowed her to notice the bright lights from inside and the momentary shadows passing by.

“Nervous?” she asked Nathan.

“No. I’ve got my charm turned on.” He replied with a grin. She laughed.

Nathan was the first to enter, followed by Autumn. As soon as she entered, she was dazzled by the lights and was overwhelmed by the sweet scent of champagne.

The first person Autumn spotted was, thankfully, Denise.  

“You look wonderful.” Autumn’s boss said. “Both of you.”

“Thanks.” Nathan said. “So do you.”

Autumn smiled agreeing with him. Denise was wearing a white one shoulder-gown. It suited her skin tone well and her soft curls reached her back making her look even more beautiful.

“I need you to do something for me, Autumn.” Denise said.

“Now?”

“Yes. Sorry. I know you just came in.”

“It’s okay. What do you need?”

“I need you to receive someone at the main gate.”

“Who?”

“It’s Mr Warren’s daughter. She’s flying here from Paris and I think one of us should bring her in.”

“Whose Mr Warren?” Nathan asked.

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