Destined Since Birth (Caleb & Cassie)

Chapter 27: FIRST CHOICE

CALEB'S POV

We're almost done for today. I didn't know working in a magazine can be stressful. They all look like they're always on the go and rushing things but you can't see or feel they're pressured, like they're already used to these things. The interview will start in a few minutes. They have to take a video instead of just voice recorder because according to Cindy, some parts of the video will be used for the presentation. I can't complain nor back out now. This is for Cass. That's what I keep telling myself. This is the first time I would have an exclusive interview and feature for a magazine, ever. Cindy approached me as I read through the interview questions and practice the answers in my head.

"We're ready for you," she said slightly smiling. The rest of the crew stood silently from the back while the interviewer and I sat on the couch, facing each other while the camera and lights are around us. I wore the shirt Cass bought for me and one of my favorites.

Questions started and I see Cindy nodding and smiling a bit as I answer them. She looks satisfied and relieved. I was ready to end the interview when the interviewer asked another question.

INTERVIEWER: They say that behind every successful man is a woman. Can you tell us, once and for all if the famous chef and sought-after bachelor Caleb Andrew Silverio is already off the market?

I paused and looked her in the eyes, eyebrows raised. I know she will squeeze an answer out of me. I met Cindy's eyes with an unreadable expression. She already gave me a heads up that I might be asked this question. She looked at me, not sure if she's nervous or curious if I will answer her question or both. I shook my head a little and grinned before facing the interviewer again.

"My private life has nothing to do with how famous I've become. I have an inspiration and motivation to reach where I am now and part of that is someone very special to me. That's all I can say." 

I stood up and walked towards the exit door without giving them chance to ask another question.

I drove right away heading to Eclipse to check things out before I go home.

The restaurant is full as usual and there are a few people lined outside. I greeted them with a brief smile and walked directly to the kitchen to gather some ingredients.

"You're cooking?" she sounded surprised.

"Yeah," Ashley's in the kitchen when I came in. I chose my usual spot. Most of my people are far from where we are so they won't hear us talking.

"Did you know what happened last night? You gave me drink and I passed out." I was keeping an eye on her reaction and she seemed nervous.

"I only gave you the new mix Dave came up with."

"I know my alcohol tolerance and I shouldn't have fallen asleep that long after a drink."

Ashley didn't respond. I suddenly remembered what Cindy said. Maybe she's been too comfortable with me that people think we're together?

"I don't want that to happen again, are we clear?"

"I don't know what you mean, Caleb."

"Think about it, Ashley. You're a friend and have been with me the longest. You should know what I am talking about." She suddenly became tense and stopped following me around. As I finish and put everything in the bag, I spoke again.

"Hope everything will be handled even if I won't be around so much."

"Are you leaving?"

"I'll take a few days off."

"Why?" I stopped at my track and looked at her. She seemed surprised as well.

"What do you mean? Should there be a reason why I can't take a vacation?" she looked away, feeling hurt by my words. Okay, she's acting weird.