Across boundaries (1D series - Book two)

Across boundaries >> XLI<<

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Across boundaries  

Across boundaries >> XLI<< 

"Allie!"

I stared into a pair of dim gray eyes – eyes that I used to lose myself in and a face that I used to adore. "Derek?" I called out softly. I could feel five pairs of curious eyes fixed on us especially a particular pair of blue crystal eyes.

"I don't believe it," he mused as he chuckled. "After so many years... and here in Seoul!" He shook his head in amazement. "How have you been all these years... Your Highness," he gave a slight bow before taking my hand into a kiss.

He was even more handsome than I remembered. It had been four years since we broke up and I last saw him. He had grown much taller and more matured. I even thought I saw muscles hiding beneath his suit.

"It's a surprise...," I smiled as I stepped forward to exchange kisses with him. He lowered his head and pecked me lightly on both cheeks. I could feel his warm breath right down to my neck.

"Do you have time for a cup of tea?" he asked lightly as he peered over my head to the boys. It was then I remembered that they were still there.

I turned sideways to address Niall. "Niall, this is Derek." And to Derek, "This is Niall and they are from One Direction." I indicated with an outstretched arm. Turning back to Niall, "Sorry, but I'd like to join him for tea. I'll catch up with you guys later?"

He nodded in understanding before he stepped over and kissed me on the cheek while his hand squeezed me lightly on the waist. "Don't forget we've got a plane to catch," he reminded before he went to join the rest.

"So, the stories are true," Derek and I found a nice corner in the hotel café and he began stirring his cup of tea.

"What stories?" I looked up at him. To my disappointment, I realised that it still hurt to look at his face. He was after all, my first crush.

"That you are dating a member of the famous One Direction."

I smiled, "Yeah."

"What brings you to Seoul?" he took a sip out of his cup.

I shrugged, "Vacation."

He raised an eyebrow but did not pursue further.

"What about yourself?" I eyed him curiously. He was dressed in a suit carrying an Ipad. He looked like he was in for some business discussion.

"I have been travelling within Asia for the last two years after I graduated, helping with the family business." I had forgotten that his father had expanded their family business to Asia. His father used to travel quite often as well. They were in the business of health products.

"Looks like it's doing well," I said.

He nodded, "It is not too bad." He refilled my cup and continued, "You are going back today?"

"Yeah, in a few hours' time. To London first."

We sat there for a few minutes of silence sipping our tea. Nobody spoke a word.

Finally he broke the silence, "You've grown prettier."

I blushed with a smile.

"And I'm happy for you that you have found your other half."

"What about you?" I asked softly.

He smiled sadly, "There hasn't been anyone since..."

I looked away. It had hurt him as much as it did to me. I remembered that day when he left. His eyes were filled with grief after he had a talk with grandma.