His Wife To Be

Chapter 2

“WHY did you leave?”

           I almost snorted at his sudden question. So, this is what he wants? To talk about the past as if we had a normal break up? As if we just fell out of love and moved on.

           He left me not only because his parents don’t want me for him but because… the woman he loved before me was suddenly promised to marry him.

           I was left so alone after he gave me his words to spend his life with me. I felt so betrayed and I’m just lying to myself if I wouldn’t say I tried to win him back. And what did he do? He drifted, did silly things just to get rid of me. I was so stupid at that time. He doesn’t deserve any effort from me.

I thought I’m too good at hiding my real emotions but Finch is an expert. How could he bring back the past without considering how I’ll feel? Didn’t I really matter to him? Because if I do, he won’t ask me such questions that make me remember the things that I want to forget. Respect is the only thing I want from him now.

But if this is what he wants, I’ll give it to him. We’ll treat each other as if we just met. I also don’t want to have any connection with him anymore. Being his attendant for this event is just purely business.

I feel nothing for him anymore except for the grudge I have for him that I think won’t ever vanish. I’ll despise him until my last breath.

           “There’s a bigger opportunity here than in the Philippines.” I shrugged my shoulder as I was talking casually. “I also want to experience a new environment.”

           His deep ocean blue eyes bore into mine. It’s penetrating the guarded walls of my system, like weighing whatever expression he can find on my face. “Are you still contacting your friends since you left?” His voice was in his normal tone but concealed a different message.

           I nodded. “Yeah, I’m still in touch with Irish but we barely talk now as we’re both busy for work.” I can’t believe I’m having a friendly talk with him while earlier, we’re both glaring at each other.

Irish Suarez is my best friend in the Philippines. We’ve met in college as we’re in the same section. Since I left that country, I haven't cut our communication. She promised me that she would never say anything about what's happening in the Philippines especially about Finch. I don’t want to hear anything about him because I think I wouldn't be able to step forward if I still collect information about this jerk. And gladly, Irish cooperated and here I am now, nearly achieving my goals without getting stuck in the past.

           “It seems you built a good relationship with your boss.” There was a flicker in his eyes that I couldn’t explain. Now, he’s intensely gazing at me. “You seem so close with him… very close.” I don’t like the way he emphasized his words.

           What’s his problem with me being close to Jackson? We’re working together of course; we must have a good relationship to make our work done well.

           “Jackson—” He cuts me off.

           “First name basis, huh?” His hand almost whitened as he gripped too tight the empty glass he was holding. I realized for some reason, he looked so pissed again. He licked his lower lip as it was visible in his eyes that something’s bothering him. “He’s too nice for letting his employees call him in just his first name.”

            “Mr. Smith, then.” I corrected my words if it’s what makes him feel better. “And he’s really a good man. He treats everyone with respect and he’s not so tyrant with his employees. He’s the kind of man—”

           I was cut off by his loud hiss. His head tilted with a hint of annoyance. He licked his lips once again and his face darkened more. “I don’t want to hear it.”

           I almost rolled my eyes, luckily, I still stopped myself from doing it. But I can’t hide the irritation in my voice. “Why did you ask then if you don’t want to hear an answer?”

           He stared at me for a long while before he sighed. “Not everyone is true to their actions. Some fake it and pretend to be good—”

           This time I cut him off and I saw how pissed he was. A smug smile appeared on my face. “You’re absolutely right, Mr. de la Vega. Some people aren’t true to their actions even in their words. They’re good at pretending to the point they can make everyone a stupid. They’ll give promising words and when you’re already holding on to them, they’ll do everything to get rid of you.” I want him to realize that he’s one of those people who are good at fooling everyone. And I think I succeeded as the evident slight shock touched his face that almost made me smile.

           He looked away as he clenched his jaw.

           The tension between us subsided when Anica came back to our table with a waiter holding a tray and there’s a glass of water on it. Anica looked into both of us as if figuring out what just happened when she left. The tension was so obvious and it’s written in our faces.

I never left my eyes on Finch as he drank his water. I want to see how affected he was because of my words. But the moment he put the empty glass on the table, he held my gaze as his eyes returned to its cold state.

           “Some people deserve to be fooled and in pain, Ms. Alcantara.” His voice was everything cold.

I felt a numbing pain attacking my chest at his words. I could feel the anger there, turned down to a sudden simmer, but the pain had gotten bigger and louder. I wasn’t able to answer him anymore. It feels like there’s something in my throat preventing me from speaking. I turned my gaze in the direction of the stage when I felt my tears were already against my eyelids.

           He never felt guilt for what he did to me. He even thought that I deserved it. The scars, pain, suffering I’ve been through… for him I deserve all of those. He’s so evil. I can’t believe I was able to love that kind of man.

            I calmed down when I heard Jackson’s voice speaking at the stage. He was giving a message for being thankful as the program management chose this hotel to celebrate this big event. This is a really big achievement for the hotel, especially for Jackson. He never handled this kind of event before that’s why even his parents were grateful.

            “I couldn’t make it if this special someone had not encouraged me enough to do this. She’s with me from the start and I’m so happy that I met her.” Jackson conveyed his words with the insinuation that the woman he’s referring to has a thing with him too. I gasped as he turned his body in my direction, locking his eyes on mine and wink at me while saying, “I’m thanking destiny for bringing you to me.”

            Teasing sounds boomed the whole room. The host even congratulated Jackson. “Can you please introduce to us your special someone, Mr. Smith. I think everyone is curious to know your woman.” The host enthusiastically uttered.

           There’s a beam on Jackson’s face. “When she’s ready.” He raised his eyebrow at me and I looked away before the host realized that he’s looking at me.

            “We can’t wait to meet her. She seems a very special someone to you. I can see the sparkles in your eyes, Mr. Smith.” The host teased. Jackson just laughed.

            I glanced at his parents that were seated in front and they’re also chuckling because of what their son said. I wanted to look away when they met my eyes but Mrs. Freya Smith waved at me. So, I waved back and smiled at her. She even pointed her son at the stage and gave me a teasing look. I chuckled and shrugged my shoulders then looked away.

            “Oh, you’re in a relationship with the CEO of this hotel, Ms. Alcantara?” Anica incredulously asked. Her eyes widened and looked so amused. How does she figure it out? She grinned at me when maybe she read the question on my mind. “It’s pretty obvious earlier when we arrived. The way he holds you, I know there’s something else between you two. He just confirmed it right now. Congrats!”

            I don’t know what to say to her so I just smiled. If I was not only surrounded by these people, I’ll burst out in laughter so loud because of Jackson’s words. He even brought his naughtiness to this big event. Even though he didn’t mention my name, I am certainly sure that most of the employees here in the function room right now think it was me. And Jackson just gave them a false confirmation that we’re really a thing.

            Teasing looks coming from my colleagues especially from Lucy that seating just a few chairs away from me is really nothing for me, not until I accidentally glanced at the person sitting in front of me. Every detail on his face is properly lined and highlighted with darkness. His eyes looked hard and unyielding. His overall coldness is to an extreme degree. His unreadable eyes were directed at me but there’s one emotion that’s so familiar as I always see it on his face before…

            Jealousy.

            My heart pounded more when I realized we’re busy watching each other silently. I looked fine on the outside, but my knees are trembling and my heart is pounding so hard against my ribcage.

            I’m nervous not because I still feel something for him, I am just so familiar with this kind of expression of him because I know he’s on the verge of bursting. Despite that, I smiled sweetly at him, never minding the looming danger in his eyes. He remained dark and silent, like a storm waiting to haul the heavens.

            “Your big opportunity is really here, huh.” I saw how he was clenching his jaw and how murderous his gaze at me. If glaring can kill a person, I am probably dead now. His insulting look doesn’t escape me. “Now I get it why you don’t want to come back to the Philippines.”

            “You don’t know anything I’ve been…” I wasn’t able to continue my sentence as emotions filled me.

            I was dumbfounded by what he said. It feels like there’s an explosion inside me and I can’t stop the bleeding of my heart. His words were stabbing me slowly but deadly. It never pops up in my imagination that he can accuse me like that.

            An accusation of his parents the reason our relationship failed.

            He knew from the start that I never come after anyone’s money. I’m not that kind of person. But hearing him say it in front of my face makes me want to vanish completely. I can’t believe he’s slapping me with the accusation that he defended in enumerable times to his parents.

          It's easy for him to judge me now.

         It’s easy for him to put me in the most painful state.

            I don’t know any more what emotion that can be seen in my eyes. I just can’t contain what he said. It’s beyond my control. I wanted to look away but my eyes fixed on him when I saw how his face turned somber as he’s too focused watching me and guilt immediately beamed on his face. The guilt just more became visible on his face. He can’t stay to look at me now. He maybe saw how broke I was right now and he’s aware that he’s the reason of it.

        Again.

        “He’s the reason that keeps you here. I wonder why aren’t you married yet? Still planning for the wedding?” He sarcastically said.

        “I think it’s none of your business, Sir. Whatever my relationship with my boss, you don’t have to meddle with it.” I inhaled and calmed myself. I shouldn’t be affected so I act as if what he said doesn’t tear me.

            One corner of his lips curved with dismayed. “It is my business. I’m involved with it and I can’t wait for the moment when you figure it out.”

            Bewilderment showed in my eyes. I don’t know what he’s talking about. And whatever it is, I don’t care.

            I put the anger aside I’ve felt towards him. I still politely looked at him as if he just didn’t insult me. “I’ll take note of that, Sir. So, do you need anything?” I innocently asked despite the darkened expression written on his face. “Do you need water or you’re already hungry? The main course will be served at any minute.”

            The diversion of our conversation just made him madder. “f*****g stop it, Isabella.” He said in a controlled voice. “Stop, please.” He almost whispered.

            My lips slightly parted at his sudden call of my name. It’s been five years since the last time I heard my name coming from his lips. Hearing it again from him brings familiar emotions I shouldn’t feel. A new wave of emotion cuts through me and I feel so drained. I can’t take that emotion right now; it will only drain me more.

            Resist.

            To save me from draining, I need to resist. Bringing back the feelings that buried me alive before is not a good idea especially now that I completely built myself for the better.

            My professionalism is the only thing holding me back. I don’t want him to see anymore. Now that he’s here in front of me, grudge is the only thing I always feel, except for the emotions that I’m resisting to roam inside me.

            “I’ll stop talking too much from now on, Sir. I’m sorry.” I apologetically said even though I want to roll my eyes at him.

            He closed his eyes as if it’s his way to not make his patience long. He even bit his lower lip that made him… sexier. When he opened his eyes, it was smoldered with anger and intensity.

            “You’re too good at this, Isabella. Let’s see how long you can resist.” His words are like a cold silver cutting through me. Before I could even speak, he stands up and walked away.

            Anica was about to follow him but he stopped her. “I’ll be back. I just have to call someone.” He gave me a deadly glare before he finally left.

            Maybe he’s going to call his wife and give an update.

            He’s too full of himself. Does he expect me to run back to him once we meet again? Before we even had a relationship, he knew pretty well that I don’t let any man have a part in my life… not until he bugged my world and owned it.

            Sorry for him but his game is over.

            He can’t play me again. He taught me how to be wise around men like him. He won’t ever take any part of my world again.

*****

            We’re done eating and now it’s the time for everyone to socialize. I don’t know how many CEOs are already visited our table just to greet Finch. Some of them wanted to stay and talk long with him but because there are people who keep coming to our table, they’re forced to leave and socialize with others.

           Anica was just beside him while I’m just sitting silently in front of them. Even Anica was recognized by some CEOs. She must be his secretary for long now. I never saw disgust in his face as if he’s really in pleasure to meddle with the CEOs.

           I am just like a guard here. Watching them closely, and would be interrupted if they need something from me. I chose to roam my eyes around the hall as I noticed that Finch kept glancing at me. I’m afraid I can’t control myself now to act like a b***h. Because honestly, I want to flash his face on the toilet bowl. He’s irritating me and what he said to me still lingers in my mind.

            I became alerted when Finch stood up followed by Anica. I sit properly and put my hands on my lap. He will be around to visit some tables. Thankfully, I would get rid of him now even if it’s just for minutes.

            My insides were about to celebrate not until he stops walking beside me. He looks down at me and irritation flashed on his face.

            “Aren’t you coming with me?” He languidly inquired.

            I slowly look up to meet his gaze and slightly shook my head. “I’m willing to wait here, Sir.”

            His eyebrow quirked. “I thought it’s your job to accompany me.”

            I politely smile at him. “I think you don’t need me—”

            “But I need you,” he pulled me in my arm with enough gentleness to make me stand up. His arm    immediately enveloped my waist and urged me to start walking. 

            I was too flabbergasted to protest and it seems like I’m not the one who’s in control of my body as it follows what Finch wants me to do. My cheeks have a shade of red now as I noticed how people turned their head on us, their gaze down on Finch's hand.  

            He holds me as if he would never let go. I can feel how hard his arm is on my back and how broad his shoulder. Anica was walking on the other side of Finch and I know she’s secretly glancing at us. She must be so confused now why her boss is acting this way and so am I.

            We went to the table with a bald old man and his entourage. Their eyes were settled right away on Finch’s hand on my waist. I waited for him to remove it as it was pretty obvious that it attracts more attention. But seconds fast and he even held me tight... gently caressed me as if telling me that it’s okay. I almost gasped as it tickled me.

            He started greeting the old man and shaking hands using the other. We moved to the other table and I waited for him to remove his hand on me but when he did nothing, I forcibly but secretly removed his hand from my waist but he insisted on keeping his hand on me.

           I almost sigh so loud in frustration. This jerk is really getting on my nerves.

            “I think it’s better to let me go now, Mr. de la Vega. We caught too much attention.” I lowered my voice so the people in front of us won’t hear it. I managed to smile even though I’m not happy what’s going on right now.

            I almost shrieked when he pulled me even closer to him while he continued talking to the other CEO. “We could arrange a meeting for my company, Mr. Martin. We could discuss your proposal if that’s what you want.” His voice was in a professional tone as if he’s not squeezing my waist right now.

            “Here’s the calling card of Mr. de la Vega. Just appoint a meeting so I could arrange it. It’s nice meeting you, Mr. Martin.” Anica said as she shook hands with the CEO.

            We walked again and I continuously removed his hand. Annoyance is already written in my face. “Remove your hand on me.” I sternly uttered and used my all strength to detach it. I succeeded but I felt danger when he looked at me.

            “Is it bad to hold your waist, Ms. Alcatara?” His voice is urging me to fight.

            I smugly met his deep ocean blue eyes. He pulled my elbow and brought me to the corner of the room without anyone noticing us. Anica doesn’t follow us because Finch gestured to her not to step any closer.

            This time I can freely roll my eyes at him. I moved my elbow so he’ll lose a touch of it. “I want to remind you that I’m your attendant and not your woman. So, it’s really inappropriate to hold me like that especially in front of the people who know you. They might get the wrong idea.”

            “What about your boss, then? He’s allowed to hold you in front of everyone and I am not?” His voice was playful but concealed a threat. The coldness he looked at me now made me shiver. “You’re too worried about what people might say about us but you didn’t even disagree when your boss insinuates that you have a thing with him. Or do you really have?”

            I looked dumbfounded for a second. I don’t know what he’s fighting for. He should realize by now the difference between him and Jackson.

            “Jackson is different from you and I’m willing to let him hold me every time he wants.” I let my sarcasm show.

            His grim lips parted and his thick eyebrow gathered at the bridge of his nose. His eyes told me that he’s very dangerous right now. “We’re just both CEOs. Tell me more what’s the difference.”

            Something had risen in my chest, forming a barrier that prevented me from speaking. I swallowed hard. Not knowing what to say. He’s accusing me again that I’m just after the money. I’ll act as one, then.

            “He’s my big opportunity, right? How could I get what I want from him if I won’t let him touch me?” Danger lurked in the obscure depths of his expression. It shows that he would never accept what I just said. I smirked. “If I won’t let him… owns me.” The words played on my lips and resulted in seduction. I licked my lower lip as I tilted my head while watching how affected he is. He froze but his anger is still very evident. The coldness in his eyes told me that he just doesn’t believe me.

            I didn’t expect his next move. He grabbed my hand and pulled me even closer to the point I can feel his breath fanning on my lips. I pushed his chest to prevent him from coming closer but it didn't stop him. I just turn my head in the other direction so our lips won’t meet. My heart pounded harder.

            He licked his lower lip and his head turned to where I was. “I can give more than what he could give to you.” He placed his lips on the tip of my ear. “Everything, Isabella...”

He distanced himself from me. I looked away as I couldn't contain the way he watched me. There’s something in his eyes that flicker and I don’t want to know what it is.

            This is enough.

            “Is everything okay here?” Jackson suddenly appeared with worried in his eyes. He walked beside me and I know he’s examining my face.

            I composed myself and normalized my voice. “Of course, Mr. de la Vega and I just talk about random things. I think he’s a little bit tired now so we came here to avoid the crowd.” I smiled at Jackson to dissipate his suspicion.

            “Yeah, I’m already tired. Why don’t we go to my room now, Ms. Alcantara? We can probably have a good time there.” Finch is playfully looking at me and I know Jackson understood what this jerk is implying as his face hardened.

            The tension in the air only seemed to worsen. I want to scratch Finch’s face to remove the grin on his face. I touched Jackson’s arm to make him calm. Because I know how protective he is. He can’t just easily let this aside. Especially when Finch is showing an arrogant expression.

            “I can walk with you until your hotel room, Sir.” I still politely said. Finch is too enjoying to piss me off. 

            “Don’t have a plan to stay in my room?” He seductively uttered and obviously examined me from head to foot as his left thumb played his lower lip.  

            “You can’t, Isabella.” Jackson’s voice was full of authority.  

            Finch chuckled and returned the way Jackson looked at him. “I thought it’s your job to accompany me? I need someone to talk with while I’m resting in my room.” His annoying grin flashed again.  

            I sighed and was forced not to wince. “I’m sure your secretary is enough to give you company. Just call me if you want me to give your needs—” 

            “Damn, right, Ms. Alcantara. I want you to give my needs.” Finch is smirking from ear to ear as if he won a lottery. “How about we start discussing it in my room? Somewhere more private. Just the two of us.” His voice was thick with sarcasm as he’s looking at Jackson.  

            Jackson sighed loudly. “With due respect, Mr. de la Vega but it’s part of our protocol here that attendants can’t stay in guests’ rooms.” This is what I like about Jackson. Even though the situation is really exhausting for him, he still stays professional. “If you don’t want to finish the event for today, let me know so I could send you to your room… personally.” 

             Finch chuckles as he speaks. “I want Isabella to send me off in my room. She’s my attendant. She should do her job unless you’re good at tolerating your employees, Mr. Smith.” 

             The loud beat of my heart can rival the loud sound of thunderstorms. To end this tension, I’ll give what Finch wants even if my heart is protesting. 

             “Let’s go to your room now, Mr. de la Vega. This way, please.” I just smiled at Jackson when he was about to protest. I stop him from following us even though he just wants to make sure that Finch won’t do anything to me.

             A triumphant smile was visible on Finch's face. Anica was following us as we headed out of the function room. We are now inside the elevator and I almost jump when Finch steps closer at me. Our arms were enveloped in clothes but I can feel the heat of his body especially how hard and firm it was. 

            “You’re too close,” I commented and put distance but Finch sticks with me. 

             He made me look at him by holding my chin so I could not look anywhere. His gaze down on my lips as if he’s just holding himself back to taste it. “Don’t act as if we never were close like this. As if you never were eager at my touch.” His words sent me shivers. His eyes were on fire. “Damn, Isabella. I’ll make sure you thirst for me again.”