He Stares Back

Chap. 28: Yeah, That Would Be Nice

*picture of Eli Johnson & his wife, Magnolia, above*

Christian's lawyer, Eli Johnson, walks into the billionaire's office with a deep frown on his face. Emily stares at the man for a long time puzzled as she tries to recall the last time she had seen him before.

"Christian." Eli has a British accent, familiar to Emily's ears.

"Eli." Christian stretches a smile, "How nice of you to drop in. How's Magnolia?"

"Did you really call me here to exchange pleasantries?" Eli says bitterly, making Emily shiver at his cold voice. "We both know that I know you better than that my old friend."

"Just trying to make light conversation before we discuss business." Christian sighs heavily, "Miss East, can you please step out until my meeting is over?"

          Emily stands from the leather couch and walks out of his office. Eli's eyes grow wide as he looks over his shoulder at the brunette. He quickly turns to Christian in shocked.

            "So," Eli says curiously "you allowed your pet to stray back home then?"

           Christian glares at his lawyer with annoyance. "She's not my pet."

           "I disagree." Eli sighs, "So, how did you manage to find her again?"

             "She came to me actually." Christian thinks deeply, "I need to ask something of you, Eli, before we discuss legal matters."

            Eli arches a brow. "Oh? And what could that be?"

            "Since these shootings have happened, I've isolated Emily in my mansion to protect her...but she's incredibly lonely." Christian rubs the markings on his desk, "Would it be too much to ask if she spends time with Magnolia?"

             "These shootings...are they directed at you or her?" Eli asks firmly, "Magnolia and I are expecting and I'd hate to come home one day soon to find out the mother of my unborn child has been killed because of that sex on legs."

               Christian nods slowly, understanding where his old acquaintance is coming from. "Just a few afternoons, Eli. They may not even like each other, but I can't stand Emily's unhappiness. I have to try something."

               Eli smirks. "Buy her a mongrel made to sit on her lap then. That'll keep her entertained."

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

         Emily steps out of the office, making eye contact with April. Christian's secretary shyly smiles at her before taking a call. The brunette goes to the small waiting room where an Indian woman sits eating peach flavored Gerber puff snacks for babies. The two women exchange awkward smiles before the brunette sits down.

          "So, are you here to see Mr. Taylor?" Emily says curious.

            "Oh, no, I am waiting on my husband to finish his business meeting with Christian." The strange woman using the billionaire's first name makes Emily uncomfortable, "You?"

            "My boyfriend is having a meeting with your husband." Emily smiles, "They ushered me out of the room before they could make out."

               "Magnolia Johnson." The Indian woman offers her hand, chuckling at Emily's humor. "Well, Magnolia Koothrappali-Johnson but it's a hassle to write on checks."