ChapterOne
I can’t believe he did that to me. How can he say such awful words behind my back?
“She’s so easygoing, she thought I liked her,” hahaha, “Oh Daniel you couldn’t dare..!!
It's not like I have feelings for him. Why would he say that to me?
Gemma is still confused in thoughts about what happened in the school hallway.
Gemma, don’t let it get to you,"Olivia said while patting her head.
Olivia and Isla both looked at each other while Sophia was busy eating the chips Gemma’s mother, “Mrs Emily left on the desk.
They all burst into laughter, leaving Sophia and Gemma confused. Gemma quickly turned to Sophia and they all laughed.
The room was filled with laughter and Gemma’s thought of what happened previously had disappeared.
“Gemma is a young lady in her twenties with blonde hair and captivating hazel eyes, with curves perfectly built to last, a girl of every man’s dream”
“Olivia, Isla, and Sophia have been close friends with Gemma since middle school, they’re more like sisters now since they will be graduating from college together.”
Mrs Emily, we’re going out for a drink,” Sophia said, looking at the other girls with a smirky face.
Do well to tell “Pa Ben, I’m going for a sleepover at Sophia’s house tonight please…!!
You know how he still treats me like his little girl,” Gemma said thoughtfully.
Yeah, of course he should. You’re his Gem and his only child.
c’mon, Gemma, don’t make your father feel he’s not doing enough, you know how he acts up, “Gemma’s mother said tactfully.
I know momma, but we won’t stay out too long, we promise,” Gemma looked at the girls and they nodded respectfully.
“Mrs. Emily and Mr. Benjamin, “Pa Ben for short”, had been married for 40 years with Gemma as their only child. Gemma’s nickname was Gem because she was priceless to her parents. They lived somewhere in “California '' called Westlake Village.
Don’t tell me you’re wearing these to the party…? “Sophia said, looking irritated at Gemma.
Gemma, you need to look bewitching tonight, girl, we’re going for an' 18'+ party, not some toddlers' meeting.
Isla was inclined to what Sophia said and Gemma was left with no choice but to redress herself.
It was a chilly evening, as the frosty air nipped at their noses, people bustled about engrossed in their activities.
Gemma was amazed by how lively the streets of Agoura were at night.
After arriving late at the Westlake Village Inn, they stopped at Bogie's for a late-night dinner and drinks.
Gemma, what’s wrong with you, what’s up with the attitude you’re having…? “Isla asked…
I.. I.. I’m just not comfortable being around people, and you know that,” Gemma said, stuttering.
Hey, Gem, this guy has been all over you,” Sophia said, moving her eyes directly towards him, over there at the other side of the bar….
Look how charming he is.” Omg, it’s your lucky day, Gemma.
C’mon Isla, let's give this young man a chance to talk to our Gemma.
Sophia turned, giving Gemma a thumbs-up with a wink.
“Hey beautiful, “he said with a low tune, a voice cool as a gentle breeze on a clear summer night,
A breath warm as summer sunshine on a sandy beach, sent shivers down Gemma’s neck.
She slowly tilted her head to see who was the soul behind these shivers.
She was left speechless, he was nothing she could ever think of.
A perfect chiseled jawline that exudes strength and attractiveness, sparkling eyes that draw a woman in
Flawless and radiant skin that glows from within, a captivating smile that lights up the room.
Her thoughts widened when they both locked eyes, he’s heavenly made, she said to herself.
Are you OK…? “He said OK, snapping his hands at her face. Yeah…yeah, “Gemma said with a mild smile.
I’m Aiden with a smirky smile. He stretches his hand towards Gemma.
I couldn’t help but notice your elegance. May I have the pleasure of knowing your name…?
Huh…huh, reciprocating the gesture. ” Oh! I’m Gemma. My friends call me Gem.
Wow… What a lovely name! It suits you perfectly,” Aiden said, looking amazed.
As if witnessing a breathtaking masterpiece come to life before him.
I don’t know if it’s just me, but I’m not comfortable with the noise. It's a punishment to my ears…
Would you like to take a stroll outside? That’s if you don’t mind. “ I would love to…
With a mild smile,” Gemma gently supports herself, coming down with the help of Aiden..
Thank you,” She said politely, feeling nervous. Gemma was glued to her phone.
I’ll be out for a while,” Gemma is sending a text to Sophia and Isla…
The air is crisp and cool, it’s a night that makes you want to bundle up and seek warmth…
Don’t you think…? Aiden asked, looking straight into Gemma’s eyes to read her emotions.
Gemma nervously turned her head quickly. “Yeah…sure it is,” she stammered.
They stopped in a dimly lit corner of the street…
Aiden suddenly turned to her, offering her a pack of cigarettes. “Do you smoke?
“He asked, his voice mild…
Gemma shook her head quickly.” No I don’t smoke,” her voice sharp
His expression softened, and he took the pack away, saying,” What a relief.
“I don’t really like women who smoke anyway.
Gemma looked at him in adoration, her love cells starting to boil.
Why did you offer me one, then?” she asked, her voice filled with curiosity.
Aiden took a drag of his cigarette, not looking at her as he blew the smoke into the air,
” Just trying to check my instincts,” Aiden replied, giving a smirky smile.
Gemma could only stare at his side profile, radiating tranquility and serenity.
Interrupted by a call,” Aiden, pick up, please excuse me, I’ll be back in a bit.
Boss Aiden, I got a call from your brother, hold up, don’t say no more, if it’s about Mateo,” Aiden said to the caller.
It’s an emergency. It's about your mother. She’s critically ill.
Aiden fumed uncontrollably,” Why are you telling me this now? ”What's the location of the hospital…?
Book the next available flight to where she’s hospitalized immediately..!
He turned quickly to Gemma as his expression hardened,” I have to leave, his voice tight.
Why did you approach me if you were going to treat me like air? “Gemma asked out of nowhere.
Realizing she was alone, she quickly left for the club…” What was he taking me for?
“Gemma asked herself,” I thought I'd found my dream man..? “
“He’s someone I shouldn’t have an encounter with.
” arghhh,” she exclaimed with disappointment…
Hey, have you seen my friend? ” Gemma looked so puzzled,” who are you?
Oh! Sorry for not introducing myself properly,” I’m Aiden’s friend. Lucas
And this is Liam, he’s with me, we came together with Aiden.
I was wondering if you knew where he was and could maybe tell us..? ”his voice trailed off.
I’m not sure where he is, but he left in a hurry after taking a call,” Gemma said nervously.
Okay, thanks for your time, have a splendid night,” Lucas said, giving her a wink.
“Oh… Gemma, where have you been? You were out of sight.
”Sophia asked, looking surprised, and out of curiosity she held Gemma’s hand.
I’ve been out for a few minutes, and it’s a decision I’m regretting now.
Furious and filled with indignation, she gracefully beckoned the bar attendant to her side.
Can I have your signature drink? "But of course not.
“Sophia interjected with a swift interruption, her voice laced with elegance.
Regardless of the motive, you should cease drinking and regain your composure.
Let’s head home, it’s late already. We promised Mrs Emily we’d be back earlier.
Oo… Oh...ok you’re right, “Gemma’s voice stammered.