UNASHAMED LOVE

CHAPTER 3

D's Alluring Lounge...

It was an exclusive place, known for its fine dishes and music that ranged from scallop sashimi with sweet Meyer lemon confit to tiramisu layer cake to sweet rhythm and bass to jazz. It would have been an injustice if the Dawson Enterprise didn't choose it as the perfect venue for their anniversary. It was also a bonus that Jack's Aunt, Dominique happened to be the owner.

After all tonight was a big family affair, it wasn't everyday a company still stood after four decades especially at the level of success they had.

For Jack seeing the way in which the family company developed would have been enough to gratify him if it weren't for the fact he felt now that something was missing.

He grabbed the glass of champagne, hoping it would evoke a convincing smile out of him. The business was expanding, quite a stark contrast to his personal life. He had yet to find the courage to get rid of his wedding band...

As he sat at the table immersing himself in the alcohol listening half-heartedly to his parents, Erica held her breath secretly hoping she wouldn't forget her words. She couldn't afford to mess up this performance. After all it wasn't everyday, she was sought after for a performance. The owner, a sweet woman had come to Monty's spot and after her performance approached her.

Smoothing down any visible wrinkles on her dress she took a few calming breaths." You've done this many times before, just relax," she whispered taking her place on the dark stage.

The music starts, a slow number that immediately grabs the audience's attention.

He placed his full attention on her the minute the spotlight touched her skin laying gentle kisses on her skin. He held his breath sending a silent 'thank you' to Aunt Dominique for asking her to perform tonight.

Whether she knew it or not in his mind she always sang for him.

Her husky voice washed over his form caressing his soul anytime he heard her perform. And as she gave the crowd a teasing look he licked his suddenly dry lips.

If only I can tell you
I now see glimpses of Heaven with you,
That at night as you sleep,
I envy the very sheets tracing your skin,
Tracing every mark and scar to
Every dip and ridge burning it all to memory.

She moved her hands along her curves, closing her eyes to not see the way Jack had shifted in his seat entranced by the sweet melody.

If only I can tell you
If you ever hold me, I already fear you will leave.
Dreams showing after trying to fight the ghosts of my past lovers,
Giving up is what you will do...

He only registered the sound of applause when she graciously bowed and left the stage. To him the song had never ended.

It scared him how attached he felt to this woman. And given the natural beauty that she carried, he doubted she'd have any interest in him. Shaking his head, he grabbed the champagne again and took a few more sips to calm his raging heart. In the hopes the liquid would deplete the infatuation and make him more focused for the event.

As the celebration unfolded Jack made his way onto the stage by the podium set up. His aunt had really gone out of her way, restructuring the setup of the restaurant. As his emerald eyes settled onto the crowd, the room quietened automatically. When one holds the company in his hands, respect comes with it. He broke eye contact for a split second gathering his thoughts. He preferred speaking from the heart. Unlike some people, he wasn't in it for the money, it was for the passion. And he valued his family enough to see what his family built stand.