Try Harder (Sample Chapters)

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TRY HARDER

Alena Reed is a hopeless romantic. And when she falls for someone, she falls hard. Too bad she’d set her eyes on Christan Taylor. He’s twelve years her senior and a very successful businessman. She realized they have business ties but they weren’t acquainted. That is, until her sister got married. The first time she’d seen him, she was moved by his story. But of course, she knew that wasn’t the whole of it. He’d been married before and has two children. His wife was killed years ago. Does she pity the man? No. But in her eyes, he’s extremely attractive and in need of affection. Love. Despite her father’s disagreement, she still chased after him. He rebuffed her many times, but she promised to try harder. Whatever it takes.

Chapter 1 – First meeting

Alena doesn’t know why she has to come with the rest of her family to this meeting. The sister of her brother-in-law has returned and asked to meet everyone in the family. She’d been gone for quite a long time; her family knew since Alexander told them. Her sister, Alexis, has been married to him for a couple of years now.

Still… why must she come here with them? They don’t even know the woman, even if she’s technically an in-law. More and more people came to the exclusive suite. Most faces are familiar to him. And then, he came.

Her eyes were suddenly glued to the man and she isn’t even being discreet about it. She openly stared at him. He didn’t seem to notice. Her older sister, Alice, did.

She saw her rolling her eyes at her and told her to behave in a whisper. She merely smiled before looking at the man again. He’s definitely her type, appearance-wise. Also, she does prefer someone older when it comes to her relationships. She knew he’s older than her. By how much? She can’t be sure yet. She’s guessing it could be more than five years. Wait, that’s not right. Alexander is six or seven years older than her sister and he looks younger than the eye candy. Her man looks more mature but still very handsome. Yes, she’s one of those women who gets attracted based on physical traits first. The personality and all the rest can follow after that.

Given how he’s here, she’s guessing he’s just as successful as everyone in the room. Should she go over and make small talk with him? He seems like a loner. She’d seen Charles Cross approach him and they seemed to converse for a few minutes. She couldn’t hear what they spoke about, though. It’s as if the single couch was made for him. Her parents were busy speaking with Allen and Axel, Alexander’s brothers. The wives are chatting together as well.

When the awaited person showed up, it seemed like an emotional reunion. The men, her brothers, were crying. She would’ve found it funny except she knew how much they missed her. And she’d heard so much about her. She’s a great person.

Everyone has questions, and she answered them one by one. Finally, the man spoke and the contents were quite… dark. From the conversation, she could surmise that someone died. Or was killed, actually. Lee said they managed to capture the culprits or something, then she gave him a hug. She was instantly jealous. Oh, how she wished those arms were around her instead.

Oh, dear. She knew what her reaction meant. She has feelings for the guy. Well, it isn’t the first time she fell in love at first sight. She’s smitten. Her imagination already run wild and playing a scene of their wedding day.

Alice pinched Alena’s arm when she seemed to be daydreaming again. Given all these people around them, it’s not appropriate to tease her, so she’ll wait until they’re back home. She can tell from her expression alone that her sister is infatuated.

At least, before that day ended, she finally learned what his name is. Christan Taylor. Lee’s brother-in-law. Her lip twitched. In-law of her in-laws. But they aren’t exactly related. It’s merely associations through marriage of their relatives. Whatever.

As soon as they left and she was seated in their family car, she entered his name on the search bar. Alice who was next to her inched closer. She also has her phone out. She would like to know who that man is and tease Alena about it.

He’s a billionaire and owns a liquor business. He’s involved in the sale and distribution of various liquor brands, here and abroad.

“Forty years old this year, Alena. That makes him what? Twelve years older than you.” Alice teased her.

“He’d been married, though.”

She rolled her eyes at that comment. “Didn’t we hear just earlier that his wife was killed? Did he remarry? Is he currently married?”

They both searched for the information. What they got is that he’s got two children at home. They’re almost teenagers now, she surmised from the given birth years.

There’s no information about his current civil status. Is he still a widower?

They can’t find any article about him dating or marrying someone else. Heck, they can’t even find the article about his first marriage.

“Huh, I guess we can just ask Alex if he knows something.”

“Do you think they’re close? They didn’t seem close.” Alena noted. Well, she’d been observing him too much earlier.

“Well, they might not be close, but he could still know some things about him, no?”

Alice quickly sent a message to Alex. It was short.

Is Christan Taylor currently married? Or is he single and available?

This is how Alex mistakenly thought that it was Alice who’s interested in him.

He has no reason to dissuade her, though, so he answered honestly.

He didn’t remarry if that’s what you meant. Single, sure. Available? I can’t be sure.

Alice showed Alena his reply and they both giggled. Their parents don’t know what they’re on about. They’re busy with their own conversation, but those giggles got their attention.

With how strict their father is, they’ve learned to date behind his back. They would get into relationships without telling him, because then, he would demand to see the guy and interview him with the rest of the family. It’s mortifying. Alex went through it and he managed to get their dad’s approval. Well, he’s a good guy. Back then, family was a sensitive topic to him and they even made him cry. It was one memorable past.

That night, she asked Alice to pester Alex for Christan’s phone number. Her sister relented but Alex didn’t give it to her. She tried a few more times, but the man has integrity. Or does he? Is it possible he doesn’t have Christan’s number?

She told Alena the results of her efforts and left her to it. She would have to find a way to get his number on her own. And ways to get his attention. A message or a phone call won’t cut it.

 

Chapter 2 – Business relations

Alena is much more persistent than Alice. She went directly to meet Alexander and ask him for Christan’s number. Her sister, Alexis, doesn’t like them bothering her husband, so she’s sure Alexander wouldn’t want her sister to see her at their house. She was waiting at the door as he fetched his phone. She was grinning. Let’s pray he’s not gonna give her a fake one.

He came out and looked at her with a stern expression. He’s been friendly and approachable before, when he and her sister were still dating. She and Alice has been asking him for advices for their businesses. He’d been very helpful but Alexis doesn’t like them pestering him most of the time. Well, he taught them enough already.

“You’re aware that he’s been married before and he’s much older than you?”

“Of course. Aren’t you older than my sister, too?”

“Yeah, but you can double that number. Also, he’s got kids. Are you sure you want to pursue this?”

“Quite sure. I’m not one to fuss about the details. Free kids, no? I won’t have to go through the pains of labor.”

At this, he frowned. “Don’t you want your own kids?”

“Of course, I do. But more without the pain is nice, no?”

His lip twitched at her statement. Her thought process is quite peculiar. She’d been staring at his phone the whole time since he returned with it.

“Don’t tell him you got his number from me. I don’t want to lose my liquor supplier.”

At that thought, she blinked at him.

“What?” He noticed this strange expression on her face.

“Right. I think my liquor supplier is also his company. Not on your scale, of course.” She perked up at that. She can have a legit reason to seek the man out. Maybe set up an appointment for a business meeting or something.

She held up her phone and eagerly waited for him to give it to her. He simply sent it to her as a message.

Grinning, she thanked him profusely.

“Think this through. Are you sure you want to do this? It won’t be easy to get his attention. And if you do, there are children involved. He loves them, obviously. If you can’t get those two on your side, you don’t have a chance.”

She rolled her eyes at him. “Do you think I’m stupid? Of course, I know that.”

“And you still want him? A previously married person with two children, who’s what… twelve, thirteen years older than you?”

She can only wink at her brother-in-law. “Yep.”

“Don’t give me that shit about how love moves in mysterious ways.”

“Is that what it is? I don’t think so.” She dismissed it. She’s just a hopeless romantic. All she believes in is that there’s someone out there for her. And his name is currently Christan Taylor.

“Be careful.”

“Thanks. I’ll go now. Thank you.” She skipped through their lawn, out the gate and towards her car. Evidently very happy with her accomplishment today.

Alex sighed. There goes nothing. He closed the door, just in time for his wife to ask if it was Alice bothering him again. He told her it was Alena, wanting Christan’s contact information. She looked a little bothered and he advised her to keep in touch with her sister.

Alena went to her office and checked if it was really Christan’s company that was supplying them with their liquors, especially the wines.

It took a while before she found the documents. She was relieved, though. It was his company. Now, what to do with this information?

She hasn’t been very attentive to their business relationships and connections. Well now, she has a reason to and to one in particular.

Their orders aren’t exactly sizeable. Her chain of small restaurants is… well, small. Compare that to Alex West’s Queens Hotel… it’s miniscule. She sighed. She can’t demand anything with this little business between them. She would have to check with Alice and Alexis if he’s also their supplier. If not, she can convince them to change it. That would be an opening. But of course, it’s not guaranteed that it will be Christan himself who would discuss business with her. He’s got assistants and employees, no? She needs another way to approach him. Not just this. This isn’t enough.

She decided to ask around about him and see what she can get. He’s not very sociable but he does attend events. He’s still a big name in the industry. She also found out about a bar he’s personally operating at the edge of the city. She kept asking about that one as it could be her entry point. She made sure to confirm that it’s not an exclusive bar.

Alena was shaking her head. Is that it? How is it not being crowded? The location is not very accessible, but I think that’s the main point. He doesn’t want many people in it. Still… people who would like to speak with him, there must be many. Women who’d try to get his attention, like her. Business people who’d like to talk business with him.

There must be something, is what she figured. She needs more information on that end. She doesn’t want to go only to be embarrassed. She doesn’t want to mess up her chances.

And so, she spent more days planning how to get close to him. From what she heard, the man simply ignores women who tries to seduce him. She’d like to witness that before making her own move. Seduction is still an option but there must be a good way to execute that. And that’s around Plan C or D. Definitely not Plan A or B.

Alena does have a beautiful face and a sexy body. She kept herself fit all these years. But she understands not everyone would be attracted. We all have our own preferences. She can only hope Christan would appreciate what she has to offer.

 

 

Chapter 3 – First attempt

She doesn’t want to act so obviously the first time so she just went to check things out the first few times. She brought Alice and then she brought her other friends.

She was able to accomplish what she needed to do: gather information. He does serve at the bar for a couple of hours or so every night. Except during weekends, which he apparently spends with his kids. She finds that admirable. Unfortunately, she can’t find photos of his kids on the net.

There were also nights that he’s not present. Either he’s attending an event or having business overseas.

Three weeks later, she decided to approach the man. Not exactly going up to him and striking a conversation. She plans to sit at the bar and hope he’ll be serving that night. She did see him talking to his customers, so she’s hoping for the same.

Alice would be a terrible companion. She tends to tease. Coming alone would be best, but it’s suspicious. He might think she’s looking to hook up with another customer. That would be bad. After weighing the pros and cons, she decided to go alone.

She carefully chose her dress for tonight. Red and black are too common. She went for a printed one, kind of a summery vibe. Well, it’s yellow and black. The kind of yellow that’s easy and pleasant on the eyes.

She took a seat and ordered a glass of orange juice. Huh, she couldn’t drink much, even when she tried increasing her tolerance in the last few weeks. She simply got wasted and unproductive. Alice assumed Christan would have high tolerance since… you know. One time, they were discussing how she’s going to seduce him, if it comes down to it… the matter of his alcohol tolerance was brought up and they concluded it would be difficult. They’ve seen plenty of women in skimpy outfits parading in front of him these last few weeks. None of them caught his eye. He’s a difficult customer.

She checked herself again. No cleavage on display. Her make-up is natural. Her hair flows down her back. Her skin is fair and she only wore a faint scent of perfume. Nothing over the top. Classy and elegant.

She was essentially too absorbed in her thoughts when Christan came and started serving. He was chatting to some of his frequent customers. He started from one side and worked his way down the bar. He was methodical that way. Yes, she didn’t catch his attention but he did think she looked somewhat familiar.

“Can I get you anything?” He asked as he stared at her drink.

Alena blinked as she looked up, then she blushed. How could she not notice he’s already here? The coloring of her cheeks didn’t go unnoticed, but Christan thought it’s because she was shy at being caught unawares.

“I’m not really good with alcohol. Do you have anything someone like me could drink safely?”

“Of course. Do you want a selection? I can make two or three.”

She smiled. Alena didn’t think he would talk in long sentences. This is much better than she imagined. Still, she knew he’s just treating her like any of his customers.

“Sure.” She watched as he prepared her drinks.

“You look a little familiar. Where could I have seen you before?”

She chuckled. She’d been coming here for three weeks and if he didn’t figure that out, it means he really didn’t notice.

“I’m guessing not here. I’ve been coming here for a few weeks now.”

“Really?” He looked a little surprised but not totally interested. She knew those expressions.

“Yes.” She focused on watching him again before letting out an “Ah!”

He looked at her curiously.

“I forgot about it. I think we first met at Queens Hotel. Board suite. Lee’s return.” Yeah, she was totally acting this part. How could she forget where she first laid her eyes on him? Hopefully, it looked genuine from his perspective.

He raised an eyebrow and visibly paused what he’s doing.

“You were there?” He sounded doubtful.

“Yes. She’s an in-law. To be honest, that was the first time I saw her as well. I didn’t know why my whole family had to be there until she explained.”

This time, he was looking at her more closely. “What’s your name again?”

Inwardly, she was grinning. She might be leaving him an impression. Any sort of impression is fine by her, as long as it’s good.

“Alena Reed. If I remember correctly, you’re also in-laws with her, right?”

“Yes. She’s married to my brother.” He finished one of the drinks and presented it to her.

“My sister is married to her brother.” She reciprocated with an explanation.

“I see. How do you like my bar so far?” He turned to business.

“I like it. My friends and sister enjoy coming here for the atmosphere. And the drinks, of course.”

His lips curved up a little. “And you? What have you been drinking all those times?”

“Juice? I’ve almost gotten every juice on the menu. My friends would order something for me but I don’t remember what they’re called.”

“I see. Try that one first.”

“Thanks. This is new.” She hasn’t had this particular drink before.

She hummed her approval of its taste. “How much alcohol is in it?”

The look he gave her is unexplainable. She couldn’t discern if it was a good look or a bad one. She hoped he’s not thinking she’s dumb.

“I used a very tiny amount of a 5% champagne. You should be good.”

“Thanks. It tastes great. What is it called?”

“Sublime.”

She smiled but her brain reminded her, he was talking about the drink, not you.

He finished the second one and set it on her counter.

“This is Cherry. It should taste sweet, and a little sour.”

“Thanks.”

“Why are you alone today?”

She’s surprised he even asked, “Oh, my friends are busy today, but I needed a break, so…”

If she was honest, she’s taking too much break chasing after him. She’s currently unsure what the state of her business is. She would face that reality soon. So far, she’s not getting any serious calls from the people she left on management.

Her concerns showed on her face and Christan interpreted as she really needed a break.

He tapped the third glass in front of her. “Hope this helps. Enjoy.”

“Thanks.” She’s sad to see him go, but has to. She’s new here, anyway. She listened to his conversation with the next lady and it was kind of personal.

He might have felt her eyes on him as he glanced at her a few times. She didn’t bother diverting her gaze. She personally feels that would be a worse reaction.

The lady seems nice. She wasn’t flirting with him. She does look older than her, though.

The men after her seems like very close friends of his, but they were more carefree. She imagined him acting that way and she almost giggled. He’s handsome and looks younger when he’s talking more. She’s starting to understand why he decided to still work the bar, even if it’s just a few hours every night. This might be the kind of socialization he prefers.

These people seem nice and good to talk to. The lady next to her has been observing her for a while now and her lips curved upwards as she realized something about Alena. The girl couldn’t take her eyes off the man. She likes how reserved she is, though. Not openly flirting with him earlier. She knew Christan from university. He hates the flirtatious ladies who come to him with their bodies displayed.

“Hi, my name is Gia.” She decided to converse with her.

Alena turned to her and smiled. “Hello, I’m Alena.”

“So, I’ve heard. Tell me, you’re here for Christan, aren’t you?”

Alena couldn’t stop herself from gulping. She picked up her orange juice and took a sip. Why does she feel like choking? She briefly glanced at the man, hoping he didn’t hear her question. He didn’t, did he?

Gia’s smile widened. She openly surveyed her appearance before speaking, “You look nice and demure. I’ll give you that.”

“Uh, thanks?”

“You’re not gonna ask him for his number? What kind of opening are you going to make?”

Alena shook her head slowly, while squinting at her. She knows what she’s talking about, but her plan doesn’t follow those actions. At least, not at this time.

“Interesting. How do you plan to get close to him, then?”

Alena figured it won’t hurt talking to this stranger. She seems nice, not at all hostile.

“I’d like to take things slow. Make it as natural as possible.”

“I see. What exactly are you feeling for him? Is it just lust? Admiration? I’ve heard the bit about both of you being in-laws with someone, so I’m guessing you’re not after his money. Oh right, are you aware he’s got two children?”

Alena smiled again.

“Yeah, I’m aware.” She glanced at Christan again. He’s now serving the last person on the bar.

“Admiration? Sure. He seems like a really nice guy. Responsible. Successful. Very attractive. Lust, you say? Maybe a little.” Her insides involuntary clenched at the thought. This close to him, she’s now familiar with his scent. Musky. Masculine. Heady.

Her plan ultimately includes a seduction if all else fails. That means sleeping with him, no?

Gia chuckled, seeing the change in her expression. Well, she can’t blame her for desiring Christan. That man is extremely desirable, except for his background which is the cause of most complications. Well, she’s already thinking he’s wholly disinterested in women, in general. He has never dated anyone since his wife’s death.

It’s probably because most of the women who approached him criticized his dead wife. They don’t know the real story. Yes, everyone thought she was with a lover when she died in a car crash. Only the closest friends of them know what’s true.

Alena, being there when Lee explained, also knows the truth. She sympathizes with him and she wanted to give him her love.

 

 

Chapter 4 – Meeting the kids

It wasn’t a bad first attempt at trying to get his attention. He now knows her name. Would he remember it, though? She was asking this to herself when Gia started talking to Christan and reintroducing her. The lady was tenacious at matchmaking. She’s at a loss how to react. Should she vehemently refuse and deny her feelings? Or should she acknowledge them in front of him? It’s a crossroad. Each has its own pros and cons.

“Are you really not considering dating? You’re going to let your sons grow up without a mother to guide them? Do you really believe you’re enough? I doubt you guys talk about girls and crushes. They need a mother figure, consider that, would you?”

Alena was in awe of this woman. She can say those things to Christan? They must be really close.

Christan grunted, showing an irate expression before serving her with a clear drink.

“Look, there’s this gentle lady who’d been staring at you for a while now. I don’t think she’s brave enough to talk to you. What do you think of her? She’s pretty, isn’t she?”

Alena almost choked while sipping her drink. She didn’t think this is how the woman would involve her in the conversation.

Christan kindly gave her a glass of water and some napkin. It was embarrassing and she flushed furiously. Either from embarrassment or his sudden attention. He did look at her more thoroughly. She is pretty but he’s not going to tell her that. He’s not looking for a relationship.

“Look, you’ve embarrassed her. You can’t even agree that she’s pretty. That hurts a woman’s pride, you know?” Gia continued, unfazed by his uncooperative reaction.

Christan let out a soft sigh. “She is beautiful. I don’t think anyone needs to tell her that.”

With his statement, Alena turned to look at him. He’s not wrong. She knows she’s beautiful. She can’t help smiling.

“That’s true.”

It was Gia’s turn to choke. “No, no, no. You should let the guys compliment you and receive them shyly. If you confidently state something like that, they would think you’re a proud person and difficult to deal with.”

“Is that so?” Alena seemed to think she has a valid point.

“What’s wrong with being confident and proud?” Christan asked. He particularly likes those kinds of people, to be honest. He finds them easier to talk to. Not much bullshit, less nonsense and they’re very direct.

“I think it’s more about the projection. You can be confident and humble. You can also be confident and haughty. It’s in the delivery.” Alena commented. That’s how she sees it.

“Okay. That’s also valid.” Gia agreed, throwing a furtive look at Christan.

“How about you, Alena? Are you currently dating?”

Her eyes widened. She’s trying to create openings for her, isn’t she?

“Oh, no. I’m currently unattached.” She briefly glanced at her man. Yes, she’s already claiming him. Sometimes, manifestation works.

“See? How about you take her out on a date?”

Christan knew he’s being set up, yet again. “I’m not interested in dating. How many times must I tell you that?” He flatly turned it down.

“Aww, you’re making me feel bad.” Gia turned to Alena.

“I’m sorry you get to be rejected like this. It’s my fault.” Her words made Alena feel better. Yes, she felt a little hurt by his rejection and have no idea how to proceed. Gia helped her out.

“It’s alright. Maybe we can try again another time.” Here, she directly revealed that she’s interested in him.

Christan caught her words and turned to her. Their eyes briefly met and he was the first to turn away. She almost chuckled. But she also knew it’s in rejection and not manly embarrassment.

“Ohhh, I’m starting to really like you. How about next week? Will you be here again?”

“Sure. Same day, same time? It’s a date.” Alena beamed.

Their wordings made the man grunt in derision. “It sounds like you two will be going on a date. Why do you still involve me?”

“Honey, it’s common for women to go on dates together. Shopping. Chatting. Talking about men.” She wiggled her eyebrows at him. Her use of endearment wasn’t lost on Alena, though. She kept wondering what their relationship actually is.

She turned to Alena again, “How about shopping before coming here? Should we meet earlier?”

Alena smiled, “I can do that. Why don’t we exchange numbers, then?” She brought out her phone and they continued to chat.

Christan didn’t linger. He excused himself and went to attend to his other guests.

The two women didn’t mind. Alena accomplished her goal for tonight and more. He’s now aware that she’s interested in him. While chatting with Gia, she still glances in his direction. She only caught him glancing at her once. She dared to hope he glanced at her more times than that.

Christan isn’t really interested. He’d had plenty of women telling him they like him. He does get invitations to go on dates every now and then. It doesn’t seem to end despite the fact the he never went to one for years. People know that.

He’s got calm ones, like this Alena, then there are those overly persistent women. It would come close to harassment sometimes. Some people just can’t take rejection well.

Alena went home satisfied. The following week, she spent some time to check on her business. Her desk was flooded with documents and reports. Her assistant presented her with summaries of what went on in the last month. Essentially, there’s nothing too bad. But they’re seeing a slow decline in revenues. It should still be reversible at this point. She assumes it’s due to competition. There have been two or three new restaurants popping up in every city. They needed to upgrade their menu or introduce new dishes. This is what she was busy with that week. She spent most of her time in the office.

Thursday afternoon, she went out into the restaurant to unwind. Her body aches for some reason. She did some stretches while looking around at the somewhat empty place. The dinner crowd should be here soon. 

The door opened and her gaze was drawn there. Customers!

Uh, well… two kids came in. One directly approached the counter while the other took a table near a window. She listened as the boy ordered a few dishes. Her employee asked how he is and said a few things she didn’t catch. They seem friendly. He glanced at her before returning his gaze on the cashier. He paid with cash and went to sit with the other boy.

“Do they frequently come here?” Alena asked.

“Yes, miss. They come at least twice a week. They’re regulars.”

Alena frowned. She’d never noticed them before. But then again, she hasn’t been out in the dining area in so long. She let her managers and employees connect with the customers. Also, this isn’t the only restaurant that they have. This just happens to be their main store and where her office is set up.

With nothing better to do, she approached the kids. She took a seat on the opposite table.

“Hello.” She smiled at them and they turned to look at her.

“My name is Alena. I own this place. I was told you’re regulars here. Do you enjoy the food?”

They exchanged glances. One replied, “It’s alright.”

His answer stumped Alena. Well, he’s not entirely wrong. She chuckled.

“I see. Why do you often dine here, though? If the food’s just alright.” She made sure to sound friendly and amused. It is amusing.

“Our mom liked the food here. She used to bring us here before.”

“I see. Where’s your mom? Sounds like she has great taste.” They did say she liked the food here.

They exchanged a glance again. She noticed that they seem to have blank expressions from the beginning.

“Our mom’s dead.”

“Oh…” Well, that killed the mood. She coughed to clear her throat. “I’m so sorry about that.”

There was silence for a minute or two before Alena could continue.

“Do you come here when you miss her, then? What’s her favorite?” At this question, the younger one seemed to smile.

“She particularly liked the roasted duck.”

Alena beamed. That was their first specialty when the restaurant was just starting out. This is their first ever store back in the day.

“Really? She really has great taste. It’s my favorite, too. How about you?” She looked at each of them in turn.

They named different dishes. The older one seemed very reserve when speaking.

A server came and set the dishes on the table. She noted the roasted duck and the dishes they each mentioned.

“Do you always order these three or have you also tried other dishes?”

The older one snorted a little and she’s not sure if she should feel offended. Yeah, she might have asked a dumb question.

“We do eat these once a week. Other times, we eat other dishes. We’ve already tried everything on the menu.” The younger explained. She likes him better.

“That’s nice to hear. We’ll be introducing new dishes soon. I hope you would enjoy them, too.”

“I look forward to it.” He beamed and they started reaching for the utensils.

“Go ahead and eat. Can I stay or do you want me to go? You haven’t told me your names yet, have you?” Alena stood up, ready to go if they don’t want to be bothered.

The younger one looked at his brother, who only shrugged.

“You can stay.” The little one decided.

“My name is Drew. Andrew.”

“I’m Carl.” The older one stated. He pulled the roasted duck dish towards him and started cutting it into pieces.

“Do you want me to help? It’s a big duck, isn’t it?” It’s supposed to be a dish for a small group or a family.

He thought for a few seconds before offering her the utensils, a knife and a fork. She carefully cut the duck into small pieces. The kids went to take some into their own plates.

She was almost salivating at her task. She hasn’t eaten yet.

“Can I have a piece?” She asked them, her eyes already zeroed in on one.

“Sure.” Carl replied this time.

She took one into her mouth and relished its flavor. Yum.

“Thanks.”

She sat down again and Drew started telling her stories. Mostly about their mom and the things that happened when they go out to come to this restaurant. She’s happy to know that her place holds a significance in their lives. It makes her feel better about her purpose.

 

 

Chapter 5 – Second attempt

She met Gia on the mall and they did go shopping for clothes. They chatted and she bravely asked how she came to know Christan. They seemed very close, in her opinion.

“We went to university together. Classmates. We dated a couple of times, but it’s not meant to be. We’ve been friends ever since, but we haven’t been really close since I got married and he did, too.”

“I see.” Alena digested the information she was given. She bit her lip before asking another one.

“About his wife, can you tell me anything about her?”

At this Gia raised an eyebrow. “Well, what do you know about her?”

“Just her name and that Christan really loved her.”

“Ah, yes. Well, I think that’s all you needed to know. What’s the point of knowing how they met, how they fell in love, how they dated? It’s all in the past. She’s gone. What you need is to make him see you, and not a semblance of his first wife in you. Don’t go that route.”

Alena was amazed by her words. Yes, her thoughts were along those lines when she asked that question. Gia’s right. She shouldn’t try to be like his first wife. That made her grin.

“What is it?” Gia was intrigued by her smile and raised an eyebrow.

“You refer to her as his first wife? Does he have a second one already?”

“He doesn’t. But you are trying to be, aren’t you? Isn’t that the whole point of setting you up with him?”

“Is that right?” Somehow, she’s not wholly comfortable with the setup. It wasn’t part of her plan. It has its own pros and cons but she hasn’t had the time to consider them at the moment.

They bought some clothes. She and Gia were in love with this maroon dress.

“You’ll look seductive but still elegant in this one. Go on and try it.”

Alena did and the dress highlighted her assets. It was a somewhat tight fit but still comfortable to wear. They bought it.

The bar has been open for over an hour already by the time they arrived. Thankfully, there were vacant seats at the bar and Christan received them warmly.

“I see you two really went shopping.” He noted before serving them with drinks. By now, there’s a tacit agreement on what they would like to have. Also, they trust Christan’s judgement on these things. Alena simply drinks whatever he prepares for her.

“We did. It was fun. Alena and I have a lot in common so we have a lot to talk about.”

Alena grinned. That, they did.

Gia furtively glanced at Alena and then at Christan. She must do something, is what she figured. After about fifteen minutes, she executed her plan.

Alena was looking at Christan serving a couple down the bar when Gia abruptly turned in her seat. While doing so, her glass full of beverage splashed onto Alena.

She gasped in surprise, inhaling sharply and pausing.

“I’m so sorry, Alena. I thought someone called me and I looked over.”

She’s still in shock and didn’t move for about ten seconds. Gia already grabbed the napkin Christan handed over and dabbed at her blouse.

“This won’t do. You’re soaked. It’s a good thing we shopped earlier. Why don’t you change into the dress we bought?”

Alena stared at Gia. It all happened too fast and just as she was thinking the woman has ill intentions, she figured out what she’s trying to do. Though, she’s not sure why she thought it’s necessary to pour her a drink.

“Okay. Let me just go to the bathroom.” She was still flustered and didn’t bother looking around. She is embarrassed to be seen like this.

Christan frowned at Gia. “Aren’t you going to help her?” He raised an eyebrow.

The woman drank the remaining liquid in her glass. “In fact, I am. Save our seats, would you?”

Gia followed Alena and quickly helped her change. She did not allow her to speak about the incident, though. They’re still in the bar’s public restroom, after all. Someone may hear. Alena understood.

“You look gorgeous on this number. Don’t look like that. Own this dress. Be confident and comfortable with it.”

Alena ran her hands on its bodice, making it fit her curves. Taking a deep breath, she stared at her reflection.

“Do I really look good?” She sounds doubtful. Gia rolled her eyes at her.

“Are you blind? Now, let’s go.” She pushed her out of the restroom and they returned to their seats. She only looked a little uncomfortable. This dress is very different from the casual clothes she was wearing earlier.  

“I think I smell like cherries.” She did wipe her body dry earlier, but it’s not exactly washing herself.

Gia chuckled. “Ripe for the picking?”

Alena groaned at her attempt at teasing. Christan was within earshot, too.

“It suits you. Let’s ask Christan, why don’t we?”

Alena blinked at her. What is she saying?

The man raised an eyebrow upon hearing his name.

“This dress. I’m saying it’s gorgeous on her but she’s doubtful. What do you think?”

Alena was suddenly feeling conscious. Is he looking at her? She looked at herself and made sure she’s poised. Then, she looked up to see him staring at her. He was definitely nonchalant about it.

“It’s alright. It suits you.” He finally stated.

It was Gia’s turn to groan. “That’s not how you compliment a woman. If it looks good on her, you must say it’s totally beautiful.”

He can’t help but roll his eyes at her. She’s setting him up with Alena again, isn’t she?

“Be more confident.” He said this to Alena and she blushed.

Gia clucked her tongue. He’s hopeless. She decided to let it go and continued chatting with Alena about clothes.

“We should go to the beach sometime. My husband owns a resort.”

“Oh… I’ll check my schedule, then.” She replied before glancing at Christan.

“Don’t worry. I’ll be sure to invite him and his kids. He takes them out to the sand once in a while.” Gia assured her.

After a couple of hours, they decided to call it a night.

“You surprised me.” Alena turned to Gia after they entered the latter’s car. The older woman offered her a ride home.

“I did, didn’t I?” Gia knew what she’s talking about.

“For a second there, I thought you were sabotaging me.” She showed wide eyes to her.

Gia chuckled, amused by her statement and expression. It was understandable, though.

“But why couldn’t I have simply worn it after we shopped?” She was curious. Was it really necessary to pour a drink over her?

“You’re missing the point.” Gia gestured. “I naturally brought his attention to your…” She pointedly looked at her cleavage and Alena was bewildered. That’s her reason?

“And you didn’t tell me beforehand because…?” This is her last question.

Gia shrugged. “I’m not sure if you’re good at acting, so I figured it could only be a natural reaction on your part. Your reaction was genuine.”

Alena sighed, relieved. “Well, thank you. I was rattled, so I didn’t notice… did you see him looking at my chest?”

Gia grinned. “I did.” More than that, she caught him glancing at Alena a few times. Whatever his reason is, it’s a good thing.

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