Chapter 5
1001 Words
Patrick
Tonight, I plan on proposing to the love of my life. We've been together for a few months and I can boldly say that I have found the one. I look deeply at my reflection, giggling in the mirror as I adjust my tie for the big date.
Everything is set.
The perfect location— diamond ring— the crowd.
I am sure she's going to love it.
I ask my driver to pick her up at the penthouse, presenting the finest for tonight's engagement party. Anna has no idea yet, to her, it's just some random date as usual. I did promise to make up for the proposal after all.
I walk swiftly down the stairs, giggling at every turn as I make my way out.
“Hi Patrick,” I hear a familiar voice echoing from a distance and I roll my eyes. “You look good. Where are you going?”
I turn to face Sophia, she has a skimpy skirt on, her tank top bluntly exposes her boobs. She moves slowly around me, reaching for my shoulders, but I take a step back. It's been five years and Sophia hasn't gotten over her feelings for me. It's crazy how she still holds onto the love she will never have after multiple rejections.
“You shouldn't be here, Sophia,” I say.
“Why not? This is my family too, remember? Besides, I am here for Leonard. You don't call the shots around here, big man.”
“Then go be with him. I will take my leave now.”
“Wait!” She yells. “Are you really that serious about her? You made quite an impression the last time.”
“Anna is going to be my wife, Sophia. You should leave her alone, or I will make her bite back.”
“What?! You can't possibly marry that woman, Patrick?” she yells.
“I can and I will.”
Her gaze snaps, meeting mine. Her jaw hardens and her breathing intensifies as the corners of her eyes twitch.
I reach across the table for my keys and turn to the exit, making my way out. “You should shut the days behind you,” I say.
*
DINNER WITH ANNA
Dad's old executive board are going to get all fussy hearing about my engagement to the perfect figure — Anna Rossell. It's the perfect night and the little laughter starts to fade the longer we stay behind. A date with Anna is breathtaking. We talk about everything and the most ridiculous things.
I slip out my cellphone, dialing on it while Anna feels wasted drinking without a care in the world. After our table is cleared, Anna finally stands up, but more like a pro.
She pulls out her handbag, walking towards the car when I fall to one knee, pulling out the perfect ring for my dearly beloved.
She pauses as our eyes meet, sobering up and overwhelmed as the crowd surrounds us with cheering. I can see how the night will eventually turn out to be. Everyone singing my praise as I propose to the love of my life.
“Why do you want this?” She asks but I smile.
“Will you marry me, Ms. Anna?” I ask boldly.
“Oh my God! So sweet,” the crowd buzzes. “You are so lucky, girl. Not everyone can see this side of Patrick Conti.”
Anna chuckles then nods as she wipes her eyes with her palm. “Lucky?!” She looks deep into my eyes, “I do,” she says.
I pull her close, locking my lips on hers, and the crowd goes crazy in amusement. “It’s a pity your parents aren’t here today. You look beautiful today. I wish they seldom made an impression.”
I watch her miss a step at the sound of her family, staggering slightly, but I pull her close, wrapping my hands around her. “What’s wrong? Are you not feeling well?” I ask.
She smiles briefly, “I’m so happy. Today, I am the happiest woman in the world, it feels like a dream.”
“Then, I won’t let you wake from this beautiful dream,” I whisper.
Inside the car, Anna pulls close, striking her hand down my back. "Are you sure you want to marry me? What if I told you I am the woman you think I am?"
“And who else would you be?”
“Anna Conti,” she chuckles. “I love you, Patrick.”
I watch her fall asleep on my broad chest and my lips instantly curls up.
*
Back at the mansion, I slip into my father's study the moment he sends for me. I stand at a distance, watching him interlock his fingers in front of his desk, staring deep into my eyes. I lower my gaze, I don't want any trouble with the old man.
“Have you done it?” he asks.
“The project is still ongoing, but it has been secured from our end with our partner's company. It's going smoothly.”
“That big project must be secured. Those old board members are watching you, Patrick. And the girl?”
“I will be marrying her.”
“Patrick, a stable marriage is a mark of a mature man. I hope your choice will prove your judgment and responsibility. Don’t let past ‘accidents’… affect your reputation.” He glances meaningfully at the photo of Leonard on the wall, causing me to sigh.
I stand indifferent, almost emotionless with my hands dipping inside my pocket as I look at the picture on the wall.
“I understand. Anna is capable and has a good background. She is the most suitable candidate.” I try to assure him.
“Very well then, you are dismissed.”
I turn to leave, taking one last glance at Leonard's portrait before disappearing into the shadows.
- Writer
