Accept

Chapter 26- Lexie

Chris had been right. Everyone was dressed like kings and queens and my dress was not out of place. The bands were playing and the rooms were packed with happy people.

Chris's parents were nothing as he had described. His mother, Gabby was a sophisticated petite woman with shimmery golden blonde hair cut in a sassy bob. Her black velvety dress showed off her athletic body. His father, Jason was elegantly handsome and looked more to be a brother than a father. Chris had warned me about his flirtatious side and it was apparent by his wandering eyes.

"I hope you don't mind I asked Eva to join us?" Gabby asked Chris before turning to me. "Eva is a family friend and like a second mother to Chris. I can't wait for you to meet her."

"Why would that be any different than normal?" Chris replied sarcastically.

I could tell he wasn't happy with the situation and I wasn't sure how I felt about meeting the woman that molested Chris as a child.

"Ah, looks who's here?" His father exclaimed as I turned to see Bella. She was the last person I expected to see but it seemed as if she followed us wherever we went. I looked at Chris and he shook his head in disbelief.

Bella hugged both of Chris's parents and looked at me. "It's so nice to see you again Lexie," before hugging Chris.

"You also," I replied coldly.

"Are you here with your mother?" Gabby asked.

"No, although she is here somewhere. I have a date," she gleamed at Chris and slyly grinned at me. I didn't like the mysterious look but was happy she had a date. I hoped it would keep her away from Chris.

"Here he comes," she said pulling a hand from the crowd behind us. "This is Brian."

I froze staring into the eyes of the mysterious man nearly destroying my life with Chris. He stared back, looking just as stunned to see me.

"Brian, how are you?" Chris's dad said. "I want you to meet my son Chris."

I was shocked they knew each other and watched in horror as Chris shook his hand. He was unaware of who he was.

"Brian does some advertising for us and is a mean golfer," he added. "This is his girlfriend Lexie."

I was unable to shake his hand and continued to stare, astounded at what was happening. I could feel everyone watching while they waited for my response.

Finally, Brian broke the silence, "It is good to see you again, Alexandria. You are as beautiful as ever."

I had forgotten he called me by my full name and the personable introduction caused me to blush. I could feel Chris staring at him as I nodded.

"Do you know each other already?" Chris asked.

I wasn't prepared to answer and looked around the quiet group. Everyone's face appeared surprised except for Bella. The large grin on her lips made it obvious, this meeting was planned. I looked at Chris and felt tears begin to form as he waited for an explanation.

"We met at a seminar in Minnesota," he quickly responded, trying to cover up our past encounter.

I could feel Chris staring at me but was unable to face him. One glance into my eyes, and he would know something was wrong. Instead, I stared at Bella waiting for a malicious comment.

The group remained quiet until Gabby spoke breaking the awkward silence and changing the subject. "Isn't that the name of the band you used to play for Brian?"

The group turned to the bandstand, and I was thankful the attention turned from me. I looked at the banner above the stage and felt my face turn red. It read All-Stars; the same band name of my high school obsession.