The Billionaire's Enchantress

Chapter 4

  Ria’ POV

I had a great dinner with my friends. We talked about almost everything such as our plans after school, travels, vacations, work and a lot more. It was actually a great time for us to bond knowing that we will not be seeing each other much unlike in our college days. All of my friends will work in their family businesses. They are getting groomed to take part in their own family companies one day. I am so happy for them. I am also happy and contented of whatever I have right now. I even considered myself lucky. I already got a job waiting for me although I did apply in other companies. I just don’t want to rely on Uncle Jaime. I know he always wants me to be successful. I even hesitated to accept the condo unit he offered to me. At first, he told me it was a gift but I strongly refused it. Then, he relented by telling me that I can take the condo provided I would pay for its monthly amortization since I have the means to pay it as soon as I will start working in his company. Finally, he suggested I could just pay the monthly rent if I keep refusing all his offers. It is my choice which arrangement I prefer.

He would not stop until I give up. I honestly do appreciate his help but I cannot just accept things readily without working hard for it. I never took advantage of people.

I carefully thought of what I really want to do in life. For now, I will accept Uncle Jaime’s job offer. It is a great and huge opportunity for me. I am going to make it sure that I am qualified for the job. Even in this small way, I can show Uncle Jaime my gratitude although things are still to my own advantage.

I decided that I would just rent the condo unit. Actually, the rent is way too low compared to its regular rate. I know that Uncle Jaime doesn’t even want me to pay a single cent but I insisted. I am just so blessed right now and everything comes pouring in at once. I am scared that just how fast things come, they would also disappear just as fast.

“Now, that we finished college, we will all be busy with many other things. I just hope we still continue to get together like this. Why don’t we meet every weekend, like girls’ night out?!” Katie suggested who always like everyone to be together.

“That would be definitely a yes!” We all answered in chorus beaming with happiness. Who would have thought our friendship will stay this long? All the girls are special in my heart. They actually made it easy for me to get by my college years.

“You know what, Ria is the luckiest one among all of us. She will be closer now to her ultimate crush.” It’s Megan who is teasing me. Jane giggled and gave her a high five. Sometimes, these two can be really childish when it comes to teasing.

“Hey, I don’t know what you are talking about. Who is that ultimate crush you are referring to?” I pretended not to know. These two just don’t want to quit it when it comes to teasing. They were the ones who were more excited that I got a job offer from Uncle Jaime.

“Don’t deny about him, Ria. We know about your little secret.” Said Jane who rolled her eyes at me. She’s giving me her bratty look. I always find her bratty attitude adorable.

“You think we don’t know that you got a crush on Mr. Jaime’s only son? You never told us but I remember you bought a men’s magazine before since James Damien Lawson is in the front cover.” Said Megan who giggles like a teenager. My cheeks turned red about what she said. Yes, I had a crush on him but that was years ago.

“I have never met Uncle Jaime’s son. Besides, you guys are such a big tease.” I tried to defend myself. I don’t want them to  keep talking about him.

“So, if you have no feelings for him, then why are you blushing right now? You look tensed and your cheeks are rosy red. Do you know why? Coz it’s true. And I don’t see anything wrong with that. You are both single and ready to mingle.” It’s Jane again. Both of these girls are playing cupid. They think it’s cool.

“And why would you deny that he is your crush? He’s the ultimate bachelor in town! Women are swooning over him.” Megan who just can’t keep quiet.

“You know what, you have been putting me on the hot seat! Why don’t we talk about your love-life instead?” I asked them while grinning sheepishly. I’ve noticed Katie has been quiet this time. She barely joins in our conversations. She looks like something is bothering her.

“Katie, why are you so quiet? We have been teasing your bestfriend but we don’t get any reactions from you.” Said Jane with her sweetest voice. She is trying to get Katie interact with us. She was lively earlier and even excited. I noticed her mood changed after she read a message from her phone. Whatever is bothering, I hope it is nothing serious.

“How can I butt in when the two of you are so loud. I couldn’t stand a chance to even say something.” Complained Katie but I saw her winking at me. I am glad she is fine and back to her normal self. I don’t like the quiet Katie, she’s trying to hide whatever is bothering her.

Katie knew from the beginning that I had a crush on JD. I find him irresistibly handsome. He is like a celebrity himself. He is not only famous in the business world but also in the showbiz world. There have been many beautiful actresses who got linked to him before and even until now.

I had a crush on JD since high school. He was always featured in the front cover of some famous magazines. That’s all there is to it, a simple crush. I never dreamed of something more like actually knowing him personally. It was too impossible to happen at that time. When I met Uncle Jaime, it didn’t cross my head either that I would cross path with JD or he would even learn about me.

“Girls, the night is still young. I already made a reservation at the club.” It was Jane who is excited to finally have us all together to party.

“Are you guys ready to party?! We will drink to our hearts’ content.” Declared Megan whose voice got a bit louder for the other diners to hear her. However, she didn’t care a single thing and just kept babbling.

“Ria, you are going to drink and dance. You are not going to refuse this time. We just let it pass before since we knew you wanted to focus on your studies. But now, we don’t want to hear a single no from you.” It’s Jane who tries to sound bossy to persuade me to have fun.

“Please don’t pressure her, guys. This is her first time to come with us to the club.” Katie came to my rescue. I am glad she said that so these two will stop talking. I mouthed “thank you” to her for saving me. I know all my friends just want us to have pure fun without thinking of other stuff like in my case, my studies. Now, I am off the hook and ready to party.

“Katie, are you okay? You have been quiet, any problem sis?” I asked her straightforward.

She gave a deep sigh. “I will tell you later but for tonight, let’s have some fun.” Katie smiled but you can see sadness in her eyes, trying to hide her problem. I know her, she takes some time before she shares her problem.

I gave her a big hug to comfort her instead. Whatever is her problem, she knows I am always here for her.

We went to a famous club. All of their club goers are from the rich and famous in the society. They are there to enjoy just like us. With my friends, I got in easily.

It was around 10 pm when we arrived at the club. We had some long interesting conversations during dinner.

When I got in, I saw a lot if people in the dance floor. They were actually crowding the area. I saw some famous entertainment actresses and models. This club is really for the elite.

Jane guided us to a table where it was reserved for us. It’s a bit far from the dance floor and it’s not too crowded in our area. After a minute or two, the waiter brought several alcoholic drinks that Megan ordered before we arrived. She told us she ordered some hard drinks. I am not into drinking alcohol. One shot of tequilla and I get tipsy right away. I opted for mojito since it’s sweet and lighter although there’s still alcohol in it.

“Girls! Here’s a toast for finally graduating from college!” stated Megan who is all smiles. We all raised our drinks and made a toast and then we started our drinking spree. While drinking, I tried to observe the whole club. I looked up on the second floor which according to Megan is where the VIP customers are. Just then, I saw a familiar face. He looks like JD Lawson but I am not sure. He was actually looking at me and raised his glass and smiled at me. Then, he stood up from his seat and left. 

Am I just imagining things? It is not impossible that JD would be in this club. This is a place to hang-out for those rich people. I was a little nervous for awhile. Probably, it was just someone who looks like JD.

A few minutes after we have some drinks, Jane invited us to dance. They even had to pull me just to dance. It is fine with me to dance but I feel uncomfortable with my tight dress. They insisted for me to wear something sexy and not the usual way I dress up with loose outfit. Earlier in the restaurant, I was wearing a cardigan so that’s why I felt a little confident to wear the tight dress. However, my crazy friend, Jane told me to take my cardigan off. She wanted to try it. Little did I know that it was her ploy to hide it from me. She said it was hideous and I should be showing off my curves instead. I freaked out. I tried to plead with her just to hand me my cardigan but to no avail. I cursed her in my head a hundred times. But the brat, she was just laughing. She is trying to convince me that I look better with what I am wearing right now. That I should get used to this kind of outfit. Personally, I find it too revealing  compared to the comfy ones I like to wear. She shrugged it off and left me getting annoyed at her. However, I can’t be annoyed at her for long. She just wants me to relax and try something new out of my comfort zone. I can see her point but I just need more time to adjust.

While we were in the dance floor, there were some guys who approached our group. Jane and Megan were dancing with them while Katie and I stayed to the side. I am sure those two thoughts we are boring. Even some men tried to dance with us but we were not interacting with them. They finally gave up after a few failed attempts.

After some time, I fell dizzy. It must be from the drink or the crowded dance floor. I told them I need to use the restroom to freshen up. I didn’t tell them that I am getting dizzy.

“Guys, I will go use the restroom. Be good girls, okay?” I was laughing while saying those words. Megan and Jane are party goers, I am sure they can take care of themselves more than I do. Katie, she parties but she’s always careful. She doesn’t get drunk.

I was getting close to the restroom when I accidentally bumped into someone who was walking my way. I didn’t notice him since the lights were more dimmed in that area. I tripped over, good thing that I was able to hold my balance and didn’t go all the way down to the floor. What’s shameful is that I actually put my weight towards the stranger causing him to hold my body tight. I immediately smelled his perfume. He smells so good…

“Hey, easy miss. Are you okay?” said the stranger with a deep baritone voice. I unintentionally touched his hard chest. I am sure those are hard muscles from consistent workouts. His right hand was holding my hips while the other was on my wrist. I couldn’t even move.

“Ahh.. I- a-a-a-m okay. I am sorry I didn’t see you coming my way.” I replied with a stammering voice. He helped me got up since I was still dizzy.

Oh my gosh!... I immediately came to my senses when I realized who was the stranger infront of me. It was none other than my ultimate crush, JD Lawson. So, he was the guy earlier at the VIP section.

Shit... I can feel my chest tightens and my heartbeat quickens. I was just staring at his face… dumbfounded. It took me a couple of minutes to regain my composure. I almost forgot that I needed to use the restroom. I feel so stupid.

JD was also staring at me. Although it was a bit dark, I could see he was smiling. Maybe he finds all of these amusing. While on the other hand, I got mixed emotions. I didn’t even know what to do or say to him. In the end, I just said thank you. I left him immediately. If I stayed longer, I may have fainted from my overwhelming emotions.

Well, it was worth remembering even if it took place for a short time. I was on my way back to our table and the smile kept plastered on my face. I was still shocked that I finally get to meet him personally. I felt embarrassed but excited as well. I felt like a lovestruck teenager. I felt disappointed though that we didn’t get to introduce each other. But what do I expect?! It was just a chanced encounter. I am certain he won’t even remember about me. And me… I am still floating in cloud nine. For a fleeting moment, I felt so overwhelmed with happiness. That’s it. I castigated myself for dreaming again.

When I returned to my friends, they looked at me weirdly. I can see their curious look.

“You know what sis, probably the alcohol has a strong effect on you. The moment you came back, you have been smiling. Now, I am getting curious as to what it is. Or as to who it is?” Stated Jane who looks more curious than ever making Megan laugh. I honestly don’t know what’s wrong with these two. Katie tried to stay quiet, for sure she wants to know as well. She is just staring at me, studying my face.

Both Megan and Jane continued talking with each other. I didn’t mind them anymore as my mind has been wandering. My mind is in a different world right now. The music seems far and so are the loud crowd. I felt like I am in a dreamlike state. My mind is just centered on one person. Now that I’ve met him, I am hoping that we will see each other again. I don’t need to get his attention. I am happy and contented just admiring him from afar. I would never stand a chance compared to his women. It is just an admiration on someone I like since highschool. I am not the only one who likes him anyway.

“Sis, you’ve gone too far. Where have you been? We’ve been talking here for awhile now. Look at you, as if we don’t exist in your world. And Katie, she is very quiet.” Observed Megan.

“What’s wrong with you two? You are no fun tonight. Come on girls, chill out!” Added Megan.

“I think I have an idea why Ria is acting weirdly. It must be a guy that caught her fancy. Why don’t you share with us?” Jane said excitedly. She is really a sucker for love.

“You two are overthinking! I am just happy coz I am with you guys. I finally get to come with you here.” It was actually a half truth. I am really having fun not just because of JD.

“Oh my gosh! Why do I have a feeling you are hiding something from us? I can’t accept that you won’t share whatever it is. Your face says it all. Someone made you smile like that.” Jane insisted who is more than excited to hear what I’m going to say.

My friends really knew me too well. They know where to push the right buttons to convince me.

“Alright, but promise me that you are not going to poke fun at me.” I feel like a high schooler again giggling over her crush. 

“I accidentally bumped into JD Lawson on my way to the restroom earlier.” I was smiling while telling them what happened.

“Seriously? Are we talking about the one and only James Damien Lawson? Is he here?!” Megan was so loud to the point of screaming.

“Megan! What’s that scream for? You’re hurting my ears… for goodness sake!” We were all laughing after I said that.

We even caught some of the  bar goers’ attention. The laughs and screams from Megan and Jane are way louder than the music playing right now. They must be high on drugs or something. They are way too hyper. It must be the atmosphere here in the club.

I put my hands on my face. I regret telling them. I should have just lied to them. 

“Oh my god sis... so was there a first base?” Megan teased me.

“Did he get your number?” It’s Jane who just can’t contain her excitement.

“Did you kiss?” Here goes the nonstop questions from these hyper women. I don’t know where they get all their energies.

“I have nothing else to say. I think you both are drunk. Your questions are way out of bound. Do you realize that?” I tried to sound upset so they would finally stop.

“None of those things happened. I was just starstruck to see him in person. That’s it.” I didn’t give them anymore details. I am pretty sure they won’t stop bothering me with their never-ending questions.

“Oww… I thought you exchanged names and numbers.”  said Jane who sounded disappointed.

I shook my head. “ Not a chance, you know his type of women. They are all goddesses. Do you think he would even pay some attention in me? You know that’s impossible, right?” Trying to convince them so all these absurdities about me and JD will stop.

“Hello!” Have you looked yourself in the mirror? I mean looking at yourself intently?” Asked Megan. I just shook my head in reply.

“You are very beautiful yourself. You have a face of an angel and a body to die for.”

“Those contrasting looks make you all the more attractive and interesting to the opposite sex.” Megan can really talk things out. She’s good at convincing people and making them feel good. In short, she’s very encouraging person.

I was moved by her words but still I don’t want to share anything more for now. I know them, once they get started, there’s no stopping. Megan and Jane have both bubbly personalities. Katie is more serious but I am the most serious one among them. I do try to do some jokes or make something up funny, but most of the times I failed.

“Katie, why don’t we just go home now?.” I told my bestfriend who was laughing secretly at what I said. She knows what I am doing, trying to emotionally blackmail the other girls.

“Hey girls, don’t go. Ria, it was just all for fun. But still, I am sorry to say that I really like to see you and JD to be together romantically.” I just rolled my eyes at Jane.

“Why don’t we just make another toast instead? Let’s enjoy this night.” I finally said after a few minutes of silence.

I just want to enjoy this night. I don’t want to be occupied with the thoughts of that man. And that’s what we did, we partied all night long. I couldn’t even remember what time we left...