FATE'S SECOND CHANCES

Chapter 9

East was up to the neck with work for the past days not to mention the un endless meetings that kept on repeating by itself. Discussing the same issues over and over again. He was coming home almost 1am feeling dog tired. All he wanted to do was sleep his tired bones. Everything was going on smoothly with the project the plans reaching it's final stages until it would be ready for Board presentation.

He was ready to take on the challenge ensuring that all was done to perfection. The only thing that bothered him was Nicole. After that incident in the lobby she had created again that wall built around herself. Oh yes they worked well together she was working as hard as he was from the interior part of her end. But she seemed detached even cold at times. There were no more teasing and laughter which made him ask himself where he did wrong. He missed her. Really did. By the end of a long work day he felt empty as if something was missing from him. Everywhere all he saw was Nicole and Kevin smooching. It was as if every time he rounded a corner they were there either teasing each other. Hugging or kissing. It sickened East. The hurt cutting deeply through him. For now Kevin was going to have her but not for long. He was not used to losing and he never will.

The only bright spot was becoming close buddies with Ben Anderson, their Master Planner. He loved his ideas and his ability to think out of the box. He shared the same passion in architecture just like him. Needless to say they were working their butts off. Lunch time was heaven for them as they took sandwiches in a nearby Starbucks cafe. Coffee that's what kept them running.

You know what my eyes are starting to get close no matter the coffee. he complained. Just want to go of to dreamland and sleep.

East yawned himself. I know what you mean and we're off to another meeting after this. How to keep our eyes open is the test. he chuckled

Oh I know what keeps yours open? he teased

And what is that? Is there a secret you want to share with me? he grinned at Ben.

None other than Ms. Shepard. The beautiful Nicole. Just the mention of her name makes you all alert. Look at you right now. I catch you staring at her even through meetings.

East blushed trying to laugh it off but he was caught. He did like looking at Nicole and a lot. This Ben he was extremely observant.

C'mon I do not. Why should I mess with her his the boss's girlfriend. Off limits. he interjected.

Now that makes it more interesting and I think it's more than that East. I have a feeling you had a past together before even Kevin came along. he was smiling at him.

East reddened even further not saying anything for a moment.

Jeez Ben what are you a mind reader? Next thing I know you have a crystal ball in your hands he exclaimed. He was right on target. But trusting him would be too early East wanted to get to know him first.

You can deny it East but I'm never wrong. Funny Nicole looks at you the same way when you're not looking. Talk about coincidence meaning there is still hope.

This time East laughed awkwardly as Ben rolled his eyes knowing better. This friend of his he was trying to catch him. But was it really true that Nicole was looking at him the same way? It made him feel lighter. Ben was still needling him while he laughed good naturedly. Maybe Ben was right maybe there was hope after all

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The meeting turned out to be a killer. It went on for hours in between he took on a snooze or two as if concentrating on his notes but actually taking power naps. He tried to look at Nicole just to meet her gaze but she never looked his way nor even bothered. He felt bad deep inside wanting to tease her or even allow her a step on his foot he would tolerate just so he could talk to her. He just felt ignored and it hurt deeply. Maybe Ben was just imagining Nicole looking at him. He and his crystal ball. Finally the meeting ended he was tired and grumpy. He was about to go back to his room when right there on the hallway there was Nicole and Kevin again with their arms around each other. Kevin was even kissing her earlobe as she laughed delightedly.