FATE'S SECOND CHANCES

Chapter 14

East for the past days was over the neck with work. It was as if there was no pleasing Kevin Whitman who seem to find fault in everything he did. To the final revision of the plans even some parts of the architectural design which was already done to perfection. Kevin remained critical even to the point of reprimanding him in front of everyone that he wasn't satisfied and had to be done all over again. It was not as if the work was not done thoroughly the target of his hate was obviously him. It was as if he was being punished severely for something he had done. Kevin Whitman didn't come right out and say it. But it boiled down only to one thing. Nicole and that special night. People must have talked catching their intimate moments together even their dance where they could not even restrain themselves.

It didn't matter to East if he was dog tired or was worked to death what was important to him was his relationship with Nicole. After that night he felt he was in limbo again not knowing where he was at with her. It was as if he imagined all of it. She became even more distant trying her best to avoid him at all cost. Conversation was awkward as if that special night never happened. She talked to him about work when it was needed and that was that. Nicole's actions hurt him deeply wanting to bring back all the care and love she gave him that night.

The long meeting had finished Nicole quickly shuffled her designs feeling East's eyes on her. She didn't want to be alone with him. The best thing she could do was stay away as far possible from East for both their sake. It only arose jealousy in Kevin. People talked wagging gossip that East and her shared more than a professional relationship. It could not be helped. She knew Kevin was getting his revenge by punishing East hard even to the point of criticizing his work and humiliating him in front of everyone. But it did not bother East one bit standing his ground and defending his work proving to Kevin that he was not scared of him. Nicole deep inside admired East's guts. He had balls alright. Nicole could still feel East looking at her. He came nearer her this time.

What's wrong Nicky? You've been avoiding me for the past days. his voice obviously bothered.

I haven't been avoiding you East. We're all busy you know that. she said simply not even looking at him.

But he was not going to be deterred still as persistent.

Please don't lie to me Nicky. Have I done something wrong? East pleading tone placed a sudden ache in her heart. She became all flustered at his mere presence dropping her illustration plates as it fell to the floor.

Look what you made me do! she snapped at him.

He could only help her pick it up bending down to retrieve the clutter as their hands touched briefly. Nicole withdrew her hand instantly as if it catched fire.

I'm sorry he said apologizing as he drew his hand away from her. East was quiet not knowing what to say. It was back to zero once again. He could feel it. Gone was that magical night in replace was again nothing.

Nicole could only look at him showing East coldness but deep inside her heart was breaking at hurting him. She could only feel sorry for him seeing how tired he was with deep dark circles under his eyes from lack of sleep. She knew how Kevin was working him hard just to shove in his face who was boss and a warning not to mess with his girl.

If you'll excuse me I've got work to do. she said brushing past him.

But he slightly blocked her path not wanting to let her go.

Nicky please tell me what's wrong. Is it me? Have I done something to make you so cold towards me. Whatever it is I'm sorry he pleaded his eyes haunted.

Just leave me alone East. That's all I ask. she said coldly. It had to be done people were going to get hurt. If God would give them a second chance it was not right now.

He stepped aside his head bowed low not saying anything as she went passed him head held high but with tears falling down her face.

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Kevin looked at the pictures sprawled in his desk examining them through gritted teeth. They were all taken during the Charity Ball of the mayor. They were numerous snap shots of Nicole and East. Laughing together. East pulling Nicole close to the point of nearly kissing. Dinner looking like a couple in love. Their dance in the ballroom almost body to body as if they were the only two people in the dance floor. He should not be affected but he was. He didn't like being played around with. He after all did the playing. Kevin loved Sharon their Account Officer in the Sales Department. He didn't love Nicole. Never did. Play acting for almost three long years. All his attention for Nicole was only for show to please his father. Nicole's family was extremely rich and influential making them both a worthwhile reunion.

But maybe it was time to pay more attention to her. Seal their engagement soon. Abide by his dad's wishes. He could still Sharon secretly. He will never be able to let go of that vixen.

Looking again at the pictures he felt he knew who East Kelly was. East was Nicole's first love. The little bits and pieces of what she confided in him about her past. That stupid architect no wonder he hated him ever since Day One. But he was going to take his revenge on him work him to death. Embarrass him even just to make him realize the power he had on him. Bleed his heart dry. He will propose marriage to Nicole even without love and still have Sharon in his life. Shove it in East Kelly's face. He will never have Nicole. Kevin Whitman would make sure about that.