FATE'S SECOND CHANCES

Chapter 18

        East surveyed the Board Room most of the Board was already present consisting of 12 members including the Whitman's. He had met them earlier feeling slightly intimidated at the high profile figures some of them even stern looking. He was seated near Ben who was the last to present for Tuscany and midway it was Nicole. She was opposite them but somehow their gazes connected. She smiled at him her eyes positive as if telling me You will do so well don't worry. It gave him the confidence and the great uplift to have Nicole by his side believing in his capabilities. Ben was having anxiety attacks as his hands were shaking while helping him set up the power point presentation.

I think I just feel faint! he exclaimed. Why don't you just do everything East. Save me the heart attack.

He laughed. Who isn't nervous. If I foul up you'll find me torn from limb to limb. I need you and Nicole's full support to back this all up.

Ben could only sigh in exasperation. I think I'm not just going to have a heart attack. I'll die on the spot. He gulped. East could only thump his friend on the back.

Relax You'll do great! We all will.

Ben could only roll his eyes looking almost sick.

Finally all was in order even the slides were perfectly into place. There was silence the slide of Tuscany setting the momentum for the presentation. A sudden hush came into the room. Everyone expectant wanting desperately to speed up the project. All eyes were finally on East. He took a deep breath. This was it he thought to himself seeing all this respected men before him.

Will you do the honors East. Ken Whitman said.

With pleasure sir. East replied as he dimmed the room's light for effect.

Nicole couldn't help but admire East as he stood there before the Board looking exceptionally good looking in his deep grey suit and white dress shirt with red navy blue pin striped tie and black fitted slacks. He his hair neatly fixed parted to one side. He was clean shaven with only his light mustache and a hint of stubbles on his chin. His 6"2 frame standing out in his suit making his lean muscled built more prominent. He was a striking sight to Nicole who felt East had become more good looking as he matured.

But what she admired in East even more was the confident way he presented. His words distinct and clear done to perfection. The slides were made with care and to the last detail. He made no room for errors to the point of even providing a financial forecast that brought murmurs of approval from the Board. Nicole felt proud of East. Admiring his capabilities. He had indeed come a long way ever since their teenage years. Dreaming silly dreams of becoming famous architects working hand in hand together for something great. It was all a reality now with their dreams together for Tuscany. Even more so if they were a couple. The magic they can make together. Nicole felt suddenly sad. It was easily said than done. She was with Kevin now. She could feel his hand squeeze hers under the table. He came closer to her whispering in her ear seeing the Board silent totally focused on East.

I've got to hand it to Kelly. Look at all the focus. He's winning the Board. He is doing a fine job! he exclaimed.

I told you he is the best! she said in awe as they both continued listening admiring the par excel lance work East had done. It was Nicole's turn to present the inner layout of Tuscany.

East focused on Nicole. She stood there looking beautiful and elegant in a black and white business ensemble that showed of all her curves. Her honey blonde hair cascading beautifully on her shoulder. She presented the inner layout of Tuscany with confidence. Her voice clear but natural. She was a born presenter. What also touched East was she incorporated all of his comments as she presented it to them the inner layout's final stages getting nods of approval from the directors. Nicole had come a long way as an architect and East was eternally proud of her. It was not long ago they were still kids dreaming big. Dreaming of working together as one and now they were both adults at the peak of their careers. Their eyes met briefly as she presented as he smiled widely at her giving her his thumbs of approval. East could only imagine Nicole as his wife sharing the same passion for architecture and loving her forever. East felt positive that there was still hope. He had always lived for that moment. The road for Nicole's forgiveness was almost within his reach.