The Sweet Encounter (Completed)

Chapter Seventeen - Manipulated

           

As Brie stepped out onto the front porch, she felt the chilly air settle across her face and she welcomed it. It was as if a breather was all she needed, but most important clarity. Why was it so difficult with Trey? Was he truly different from her that their differences were going to become discerning? With Jerry, life seemed simple, but then there were no responsibilities back then. The prenup was a substantial concern and needed to be discussed. She wasn't trying to be difficult; she thought the complete opposite by trying to do what was best for Trey.

Her left hand began to pull the handle to her car, but her right arm was pulled away from the vehicle. Her body swiftly circled around, and she felt the sudden warmth covering her entire body. His head buried into the nape of her neck. She distinctly placed her arms around his neck and pulled him in as he leaned on her while her back was to the car.

"Brie." His tone was forgiving. "I don't like this feeling. Arguing and not speaking to each other."

She was shocked by his admission. "Trey, I wouldn't call it an argument but more of a disagreement. It's inevitable considering we don't know each other well. There are going to be differences, but we are going to do the adult thing and talk about it."

"I didn't want you upset at me before leaving here." But most importantly, he didn't want her to be vulnerable and then get persuaded by Jerry. The words Jerry said to Trey preoccupied his thoughts to no end. I'll be right there for her when you break her heart. Those were his exact words to Trey, and he wasn't about to let her walk into Jerry's arms again, especially after their recent discussion about the prenup.

She leaned back and tried to comfort him. "There's a lot we need to discuss, and I promise you when I return we'll continue our conversation."

She began to release him, but he pressed hard against her. His lips were already on hers and she found her arms around his neck again. She could feel the difference in this kiss. It was almost as if he was afraid to let her go. She caressed his lips with her thumb and closed her eyes.

"You know I love you."

"I know."

His elongated silence confirmed what she thought.

"Trey, don't do this. You're only torturing yourself. I'm in love with you, not with Jerry. Please trust me."

"I trust you. It's him I don't trust."

"Then there's nothing to worry about. Now, if you'll release me, then I can be off and also back sooner to you tonight."

He stepped back and opened the door for her. He stood there and watched her drive off.

From the rearview mirror, she noticed that he was still watching her until she no longer saw his figure. She hoped he would be at ease, and the rest of the evening would be uneventful.

Abigail had a hard time letting go of Brie, but she was anxious to finish packing for her early flight tomorrow. They promised each other to never lose touch again. Mrs. Lockhart apologized for Jerry's behavior, but Brie wouldn't accept it. She knew no one was at fault and hoped to clear any misguidance. It wasn't long until Mrs. Lockhart noticed Brie's ring.

"I'm sorry, Mrs. Lockhart. It's all new and my intention isn't to bring this forward. I'm here really to see Abigail before she leaves, but to make sure you're alright."

Mrs. Lockhart placed her hand on Brie's cheek and shook her head. "Brie. Why are you apologizing now? I couldn't be happier for you. You are like a daughter to me, and your parents would be so proud of the woman you've become. And now you're going to make such a beautiful bride."