FATE'S SECOND CHANCES

Chapter 25

The past weeks had been a cat and mouse game for both East and Nicole. It was obvious to East that Nicole had regretted what had happened between them trying to make up to Kevin. He had tried to show her that it was not the end for him. But it tested all of his patience having one rejection after another from Nicole. He had tried to come over her place bringing a pizza and flowers only to get the door slammed in the face claiming that she was busy. Even his flowers were not accepted. He tried to call her but she never answered. As if she was purposely avoiding him and hurting him painfully in the process. East could only point to one reason and that was Kevin. How East hated the bastard. It was him who deserved to be loved by Nicole not him. What hurt him even more was the open display of affection Kevin and Nicole were showing adding more salt to his wounds. But still East swallowed his pride never giving up still hoping for that chance with Nicole even if his heart was breaking.

The only bright spot was Tuscany. Construction was going on smoothly for weeks. Licenses secured. Permits given with ease. The construction team was doing wonders under East's supervision feeling proud of his work. He was toggling between the site and the office.

East had been holed up in his office the entire day studying closely the revisions for Tuscany Phase 2 cluster. He was about to discuss some things with Ben when right in the corner he could see Nicole's arms wound around Kevin's neck kissing in the corner side of the hallway. East felt a gut wrenching pain in his heart at the sight. He just wanted to tear Kevin away from Nicole.

This time he purposely dropped the plans he was holding in the hallway with an exaggerated sigh but catching enough attention to interrupt the intimate kiss. Kevin was shooting daggers at him while Nicole blushed her eyes veiled not looking at him. East feigned innocence.

Sorry about this. I'm just too klutzy. he exclaimed grabbing casually the roll of plans that were scattered on the floor.

You sure are! Kevin said sharply through gritted teeth.

East grinned happily. Interrupt your intimate moment? You can continue now if you want. Maybe you even want me to watch. East said sarcastically. A free movie in every corner.

Nicole blushed furiously just as Kevin looked embarrassed his fury unleashing.

Why don't you just go back to work East. That's what I'm paying you anyway. he said brusquely.

And miss your show. East shot back with a smirk.

Both their gazes were belligerent as they looked squarely at each other as if just waiting for it. East was up for it anytime. He was not scared of squaring off with Kevin in fact he welcomed it wanting to put a fist right through his face.

They were prevented from hurling anymore harsh words at each other with the secretary interrupting them.

Since most of the senior officers are present I'd like to remind you all of the Anniversary Gala on Friday. This is to commemorate Whitman Companies 12th Year Anniversary. Everyone is expected to attend. Awards will also be given that day. she announced

Kevin could glare back at East at these obvious interruption. Nicole could only turn to East giving him a sign to let things go. There was hurt in his eyes which Nicole knew she placed. You can't make love to a person with all the intense passion and just discard him with no regard for his feelings. Nicole did that to East but choices had to be made. She had committed herself to Kevin. She was not about to risk her heart for East.