Unprecedented Passion

Chapter 4 - An Uncharted Path to London

Evelyn and Gabriel worked through the next few weeks of planning their transfer to London. Their joy at starting over in a new place was tempered by the bittersweet reality of leaving behind their comfortable lives.

Among the piled boxes in her almost empty flat sat Evelyn. Reminiscing about her time in the city, she was sorting through a pile of pictures. Gabriel left her a message on her phone saying, "Can't wait to see you tonight. Surprise you, I have one."

Across her face a smile appeared. Gabriel used to have really wonderful surprises. She packed fast and went to meet him at his house. Fresh roses and the cozy glow of candles welcomed her as soon as she walked in.

"This is lovely, Gabriel," she replied, glancing about.

From the kitchen emerged Gabriel, clutching a champagne bottle. "I wanted to have a grand celebration of our final evening here."

With a clink of glasses, they took a seat on the couch and relished the small space. Gabriel handed her a little silver paper-wrapped box. "Extend it."

Evelyn gingerly undid the package to reveal a little key-shaped pendant on a silver necklace. Looked up at him, perplexed.

A key to our new existence in London, Gabriel said. "I wanted to have something to represent this new chapter we're beginning together."

She started crying. It works flawlessly. Gabe, thank you.

They kissed tenderly, but as the evening dragged on, a feeling of worry crept in. Gabriel seemed sidetracked, his thoughts elsewhere. Evelyn chose to deal with it.

Gabriel, are things alright? You seem to be... distracted."

Gabriel paused and then heaved. "I have not told you something. Isabella is involved.

Anxiety shot through Evelyn. Why is that?

"Isabella came to me last week," Gabriel acknowledged. "She made me a counter-offer to remain and work for her company. She made the implication that failing to take her offer into consideration may endanger our move to London."

Heart thumped in Evelyn. You said what?

'I told her no, of course,' Gabriel responded firmly. She is tenacious, though, and I believe she is plotting something to throw off our plans.

To try to control her feelings, Evelyn inhaled deeply. What kept you from telling me sooner?

"I didn't want to worry you," Gabriel murmured, grabbing her hand. "But since we're almost there, I felt you deserved to know. Any last-minute roadblocks she may throw our way need to be anticipated."

Evelyn shook her head, her resolve firming. "We'll face it together, like we always do."

Evelyn and Gabriel showed up at the airport the following morning prepared to start their new adventure. Evelyn's friend Claire called when they were checking in.

I have to talk to you, Evelyn. Claire added, "It's urgent," her voice tight.

Evelyn moved aside, concern creased on her forehead. What is wrong, Claire?

"I heard from a reliable source that Isabella is planning to file a last-minute injunction to block Gabriel's departure," Claire said. She is alleging contract violation.

Heart sinking, Evelyn said. Serious?

Most definitely. Be ready. She is making every effort to keep you two here," Claire cautioned.

Evelyn swiftly gave Gabriel the information after thanking Claire. Tension marred his face. Move quickly, please. Before she has an opportunity to act, let's get through security and board the aircraft."

With each minute that went by, they hurried through the airport, their worry growing. An announcement through the terminal said, "Passengers Gabriel Torres and Evelyn Hartman, please report to the nearest customer service desk immediately," just as they were ready to board.

Evelyn looked dreadful at Gabriel. Then what? Whispering, Evelyn said.

A serious-looking woman met them as they walked up to the desk. Holding out a letter, she continued, "I'm afraid there's a legal matter that needs to be addressed before you can board your flight."

Gabriel cast a glum look at the paper. "The injunction is it. Isabella achieved it with amazing skill."

Evelyn was thinking fast. How are we to proceed?

Gabriel scooped her up. "We battle it. I'll give our attorney a call to see what can be done."

Calls and legal consultations occupied their next several hours. The injunction was weak and might be challenged, their attorney told them, but it would take time.

Evelyn was struck with a rush of frustration and hopelessness as they waited for updates in a peaceful area of the airport. Why is she so hateful of us?

She felt Gabriel grip her hand. Hatred has no part in this. It concerns authority. Not having her way bothers Isabella to no end."

When their attorney did call back, it was excellent news. Lifted is the injunction. You may now get on your aircraft.

Over them relief swept. Hearts hammering, they dashed to the gate and arrived just on schedule. Evelyn felt the strain come off her shoulders as the aircraft lifted off. They had prevailed.

Long as the flight to London was, it was one of hopeful expectation. Evelyn and Gabriel discussed their aspirations, their plans, and their impending new life. Both were thrilled and worn out by the time they touched down.

Evelyn sucked deeply of the clean London air as she got off the aircraft. "Really here we are," she grinned.

Gabriel put an arm over her. Actually, we are. Hello from our new house.

Excitement and trepidation mixed as they made their way through customs and got their bags. A driver waving a placard bearing their names met them as they came out of the airport.

"Mr. Torres, Ms. Hartman, welcome to London," the driver stated as he took their luggage. 'I'll show you to your new flat.

Driving across the city was bizarre. Evelyn marveled at the busy streets and old buildings that went by. 'This city is amazing,' she declared.

Gritting, Gabriel squeezed her hand. "Our amazing city will be the setting."

They got to their new place, a little flat with a view of the Thames in a historic structure. A stunning vista of the river and a well decorated living room welcomed them as soon as they walked inside.

With wide-eyed wonder, Evelyn exclaimed, "This is amazing."

Grinning, Gabriel said. I wanted our first house together to be memorable.

Over the following few days, they settled in, explored their new area, and got used to their new schedules. Evelyn was anxious but yet eager about her interview with the esteemed company Gabriel had mentioned.

Evelyn took great care to look well for her interview the morning of. Walking her to the company's office, Gabriel gave her words of support.

He planted a cheek kiss on her and added, "You're going to do amazing. "They would be fortunate to have you."

Evelyn grinned, her confidence leaping. "Many thanks, Gabriel. Will see you later.

The crew and Evelyn connected well during the interview. Gabriel had texted her as she was leaving the office, saying, "Meet me at the park by the river. I'm going to shock you one more."

Curiosity sparked in Evelyn. Once at the park, she discovered Gabriel waiting with a blanket spread out beneath a tree and a picnic basket.

Grinning, she asked, "What's all this?"

Taking her hand, Gabriel guided her to the blanket. "We could use a laid-back afternoon together, I reasoned. And I wanted to honor the interview."

Talking and joking, they relished a relaxed picnic while taking in the stunning surroundings. Gabriel cast Evelyn a serious glance as the sun started to set.

Holding her hands in his, he murmured, "I need to tell you something."

A beat went out of Evelyn's heart. Who is it?

Gabriel drew a big breath. "The company here in London has extended me an offer of partnership. Although it is a fantastic opportunity, there are many duties and travel involved."

Evelyn was nervous as well as proud. Gabriel, that's AMAZING. How will it effect us, though?

Gabriel slowed down. Long hours and time apart will be involved. We can, I think, make it work, though. I wanted to discuss it with you before deciding."

His candor and thought were much appreciated by Evelyn. Like we usually do, we'll work everything out together."

Seated in cozy quiet, they watched the sun set. Evelyn experienced a sensation of tranquilly. Though they had already overcome a great deal, their love had only gotten stronger.

As the days stretched into weeks, Evelyn and Gabriel became comfortable in their new home. Evelyn had gotten the job after a successful interview. Throwing herself into her work, she discovered happiness and contentment in her new position.

Gabriel agreed to the alliance, and despite the difficult travel and long hours, they deliberately worked to encourage one another. With respect and love at its foundation, their relationship grew.

One evening Evelyn experienced a surge of nostalgia when they were making dinner together. "Do you ever miss our old life?" she enquired.

Gabriel gave some thinking. Though I wouldn't swap what we have now for anything, I miss some things.

Grateful, Evelyn grinned. I wouldn't either.