FATE'S SECOND CHANCES

Chapter 17

This was the day East had longed been waiting for. The culmination of all their hard work for Tuscany. It was the Board Director's Final Approval Board Meeting for Tuscany. One they had prepared and slaved for making sure that all the final plans were done to perfection. Even the presentation was in detail each slide excellently crafted down to the final layout. He had prepared well for this moment even for any rebuttals or negative feedback. The approval of the Board was crucial. The life of Tuscany depended on it and East was going to be sure they get it. The approval of the Board hands down.

He came early to the office appearing confident yet deep inside he was nervous. Everyone was counting on him for it to make it all happen for Tuscany giving him a lot of pressure in his hands. East thoughts shifted to Nicole. He missed her terribly. He had a few meetings with her the whole week but it was all business not even giving them a chance to talk. But everyday without fail he would send her flowers with cards in his very own handwriting left unsigned. Just to let her know that he thought about her. But she remain detached acting as if she never received anything much to East's dismay. It hurt but what he could he do? He just needed to be patient woo her all over again.

Nicole came extra early to the office gearing herself for the crucial Board presentation where she would present the inner layout of Tuscany. She felt nervous deep inside cause there was a lot of money involved in this project. Even numerous investors who wanted the approval today. Nicole knew East was under a lot of pressure to make sure all ran smoothly. Every single day she awaited the flowers that were delivered to her table with little notes. The sweet gestures softening her heart. She knew where it came from. East. He sent those flowers to her knowing his firm steady handwriting anywhere. She rarely saw him but she knew he was putting up late hours. She missed him even wanting to thank him for the flowers.

Nicole went to their cafeteria to get coffee when she saw East on the far side of the place coffee cup beside him peering at some papers his expression deep in thought. They were completely alone much to Nicole's delight. It was the perfect timing.

East was unaware of her as she filled her mug and went towards him. She cleared her throat instead interrupting his thoughts. He looked up surprised fumbled almost spilling his cup.

Mind if I seat with you? she asked. Nicole was touched how easily East got flustered when she was near touching her heart.

This time he smiled widely. My pleasure Nicky. Just was thinking deeply. I didn't expect you. he said turning a bit red. How klutzy he looked East thought and what was he babbling about. Acting Stupid that was him.

Nicole laughed this time. Don't tell me you're scared of me East. You just got all rattled up. she teased.

East joined her laughter this time.

You know me I do crazy stuff when you're near. he said giving her a goofy grin.

Like sending flowers every day without fail with mushy sweet stuff? she teased even more.

East blushed turning a deep red and gave a shaky laugh.

I thought all women love flowers he implored. Just want her to know that I think of her every day nor rain, sleet or snow can change that. he said tenderly.

It was Nicole's turn to blush East's words touching her in many ways. Going out of her way to please her. Showing how much he loved her.

Maybe she has softened up. Maybe in time learn to forgive. she replied back to East as their gazes interlocked.

East could only feel the tremble in his voice feeling as if all his fervent wish had come true.

Do you mean that Nicky? I've always dreamed to hear you say that.

Nicole didn't reply but it was in her face that forgiveness he had been waiting for. She smiled at him her eyes bright and happy just as East felt like jumping up and down.

He was speechless not knowing what to say but his eyes were teary eyed with joy unimaginable.

But first we need to get this show on the road for Tuscany. This is a crucial board meeting for us East.

East could only nod in agreement. To tell you honestly I'm quite nervous. This presentation could move or break Tuscany. A lot depends on all of us.

On you East. And you'll do excellently like you always do. I believe in you always remember that. Nicole said confidently giving the boost East needed.

It was the first time Nicole had said those kind uplifting words to him making him realize how Nicole still cared about him. Loved him even.

Thank you Nicky. For giving me the drive to do well. Your vote of confidence means a lot to me. he held her hand warmly into his own. How he just wanted to take her in his arms and never let go.

But she just smiled encouragingly at him as she got up to leave. Good luck later East. Knock them dead!

East could only watch Nicole go feeling as if he was on top of the world. He was humming and smiling as if he had won the lottery or better yet winning the woman of her dreams. I love you Nicky. This will never stop. He vowed. I'll go on proving myself to you that I'm worthy of your love this second time around. East left the cafeteria oozing with confidence. He would definitely knock the Board dead.