Their Heats Desire

Chapter 5

Andrew was on site looking over the new plans Mr. Harding agreed too. He poured his heart into every line, every angel and yet it still was not what Mr. Harding wanted. Oh he agreed to the general structure, but he wanted doors changed and ceilings lowered. Other floors he wanted all sorts of changes, but it’s not all bad he can live with some minor changes. Sammi came over to where he was working to go over the final details when his cell phone rings. Without looking at the id screen he knew it was Sandy calling to remind him about dinner. He told her he’ll be there and said bye. It’s been about six weeks since he’s seen or spoken to any of them. Business has taken off and has put a strain on his down time. Andrew’s put in as many hours as his crew because the job has to be done. Right now things are going great with Mr. Harding and he didn’t mind going to dinner to celebrate. It’s about time he and Sonia Harding got to know each other better.

Andrew caught Sammi watching him, he guessed wondering what was going on. He went back to giving her instructions then went to get some coffee. Once inside his office he went into the corner to his coffee pot and poured himself-a hot steaming cup of French vanilla. Lifting his mug to his lips he wondered about Sonia’s pregnancy. He has never once seen anyone else at her place except Sandy and James. Where, he wondered, was her family or the father of the baby.

Walking over to the window he thought about his own family, he misses them, the children and Cheryl. They are the best parts of his life and he feels lost without them. William would never understand why he loves them the way he does.

Children, he wants them someday and somehow they have always been a part of his life in one way or the other. But with his problem he might never get there unless he finds the one ideal woman who is willing to try with him. His sister-in-law told him that one day the right woman will come along and no matter what he’d be happy. Andrew was not in the habit of getting his hopes up.

Sonia’s situation was different of course, but he wanted to know about it and her. Maybe tonight’s dinner will be the place to start.

By seven thirty Andrew was standing outside Sandy and James’s place, ready; ready to do what he wondered. How will she react to him or the questions he might ask? He didn’t know but decided to get the night started. James answered the door not too long after he rang the bell. Whatever Sandy was cooking smelt great. Once inside he followed James to where the two ladies were and what he saw was disarming. He came prepared for whatever way she would react to him, but now he had to fight off the attraction that once again was building. She looked exquisite and sexy in her lime green dress, which he might add, shows her pregnancy whether she knew it, or not. He was directed to sit at the other end of the sofa, while they engaged in pre dinner conversation.

James asked Andrew questions about his business. Which he was glad to answer, he loved his job. He mentioned the building he’s working on and hopes that will get his foot in the door to do other major projects. Andrew peeked at Sonia when he mentioned his job and thought about Mr. Harding, he had a feeling if he said what he wanted to say it would spoil the evening. He turned to look at her fully. Several questions came to mind. One, why was she hiding her pregnancy? Two, where’s her family and the father of her baby? But he decides that it would cause problems between them. “So Mrs. Harding or is it Ms.?”

“It’s Ms.” She noticed the way he looked at her, she can tell he had many questions, but she was not ready to answer any of them especially from him.

“How long have you lived in the beach house?” He saw a flash of anger and wondered why.

“Ah about ... well I really can’t remember how long. Is something wrong?” He’s fishing for something she thought.

“No just getting to know my neighborhood better.” Andrew watched her expression at each question he asked her and how she answered. “So tell me about your family, your dad, your mom?”

“Well there’s really nothing to tell, my parents are far away from here.” Why did he want to know this? Sonia did not like where this conversation was going at all; she became nervous.

“Do you like living here? I mean since you’ve been here, has there been any major problems in the neighborhood?” Andrew asked.

“Ah no, it’s pretty quiet and decent around here and yes I do like living here.” She said.

All right, so far so good. “So, what kind of work do you do?” He asked.

“I’m an illustrator of children’s books.” Why was that important she wanted to ask him?

“That sounds interesting. I’ve never met anyone who illustrates books before. Have you done that long?” He asked.

“Yes all my life.” Yet again, she wanted to know why that was important to him.

“Maybe you can recommend one of these books.” He asked.

“If you’re into children’s books, sure, the books are in several books stores.” Hah, she got him.

“Really, great, maybe I’ll check out one someday, for my niece and nephew.” There was a pause, and then he asked, “How about someone special...? Oh I’m sorry.” He saw how uncomfortable she became and stopped himself. It made him more suspicious about her, but he stopped.

Sonia looked to Sandy and James for help, she was glad when James jumped in with sports and questions of his own. Sonia got up and went to the bathroom. She needed to breathe to find a way to stop his questions. Sandy came up behind her before she went into the hall and asked, “Are you okay? I’m sorry he just seemed to focus on you.”

“Yes I’m fine. Now do you see why I didn’t want to do this?”

“Sonia the more you stay away the more questions he’ll ask, you’ve become a mystery to him.”

“Never mind now, I just have to get through the rest of the evening with your help.”

“Alright just try to relax. I don’t want you causing my godchild to act up tonight.” Sandy said.

“Me, I’m not the one asking questions. Look, I have to use the bathroom okay.” With that she walked off not wanting to deal with this anymore.

Once she returned from the bathroom James and Andrew were so engrossed in the game they didn’t see her come in and head for the kitchen. Sandy watched her but she didn’t say a word. Sonia was glad for the silence. Before they knew it dinner was ready.

After a rough start the dinner turned out nice they talked about other things while staying away from the topic of family. Sonia did smile several times that night. She kept on peeking at Andrew, there was just something about him that bothered her and she didn’t know what it was.

Andrew caught her several times looking at him and he did his share of looking at her. He wondered if she noticed him because she was beginning to like him or was she trying to find a way to get rid of him.

Once they got through with dinner and had desert, Andrew offered to walk Sonia home. Sonia refused; she did not want the questions to start again or even be in the same spaces alone with this man. But he kept asking until Sandy overheard and told Sonia it would be better than James going with her and then coming back. Sonia gave her friend a side-glance, but finally agreed. She thought Sandy would be on her side with this, but once again she was wrong.

When they left the house they walked in silence, as they got closer to the house she told him that he could leave if he wanted to. Andrew asked her. “What kind of man would I be if I just left you here all alone?” Sonia just looks at him. Once they reached her door Andrew made sure she was inside safely then went upstairs.

Sonia was anise, she figured it was from the time Andrew started asking her questions and now she can’t sleep. She paced for a while then tried to draw; when that didn’t work she decided to get some milk. As she emerged out of her bedroom Sonia noticed the lights outside are on. At first she thought Sandy, but it was 2:30 in the morning. Slowly walking to the doorway she opened the door to find Andrew standing there with his back to her. She wondered what he was doing out here.

Somehow after the way things went tonight he figured she would be up. He wanted to apologize for the way he acted. Slowly he turned. “I brought you some warm milk.” He paused waiting to see if she would accept it or close the door in his face. Who would blame her after the way he treated her. When she didn’t move or say anything he asked. “Can I come in?”

Sonia stepped back and allowed him in. She’s at a loss for words but not for long, she asked, “how, how did you know that’s what I wanted?”

“I– it’s like a peace offering. I know when I can’t sleep it helps me to relax. Anyway I’m sorry about dinner. I didn’t mean to pry into your life.” He realized he almost let it slip that he knew she’s pregnant. He hoped she would forgive him.

She looked at him for a second then said. “No it’s alright.” Seeing another side of him made her think differently about her approach. “I don’t like to talk about myself.” His look was very disarming and so was his smile. Sonia realized if it continues she could like him.

“I can see that.” He could not take his eyes off her. “Like I said, I’m sorry; goodnight.” It’s late and he should leave now before something crazy happens.

“Thanks again for the milk.” Sonia said looking away from his steer, she doesn’t like the feelings he causes every time he’s around. She felt drawn to him not that she would admit it to anyone.

“No problem.” Andrew said, but wanted intimacy with her. Woo, this was not good, time to go. Andrew went upstairs, entering his bedroom, his mind on Sonia and the feelings she’s causing in him. This can’t be happening after his many failed relationships. He didn’t want to think of her in that way, but he was, so what can he do about it.

His night was restless, the first one since moving in.

Andrew stood under the sprays of the shower, which felt good, he had a grueling day ahead of him and he wondered if he was ready for Mr. Harding. After having some cereal for breakfast he headed out. While driving to the office Andrew’s mind wanders to the task of building the most perfect building of his career. Something so spectacular that all though his brother would recognize him and his work. Smiling he contemplated his gratefulness for his new home and the job he has accomplished so far. But Sonia’s situation bothers him, the fact that she’s pregnant and no one told him was one thing, but where in the world is her family.

Being around Cheryl, his sister-in-law, Susan, his cousin and Pam, a good friend, he knows the signs. Andrew can’t tell how far along she might be, but she’s definitely pregnant. When will she mention it he wonders? He knew she’s not happy with his presence so why would she tell him anything? His best bet, stay away from her.

Andrew went through his day making sure things were right and having meetings. Tomorrow the building inspector will be there to check out the building and Andrew wants everything to be up to standard. After checking and rechecking he went home. It was midnight when he finally got home; as he walked into his room the only thing he wanted to do was sleep.

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When the clock went off the next morning Andrew got up, did the bathroom thing and blanked out all other thoughts. He needed to clear his head so he could focus on his job. He went for a run on the beach. Once he began to run he let the energy course through him with each step he took. It was invigorating and gave him just what he needs for the day.

By the time he got back Sonia was nowhere in sight. He hoped she forgives his past behavior so they could move on. Just then he thought of Cheryl and the kids. This was as good a time as any to call William won’t be there. Dialing his former residence the phone rang several times before someone answered. “Hello.”

“Hi Cheryl . . .” Andrew said.

“Andrew? Andrew Terrence Hastings what took you so long to call? I’ve been worried?” Cheryl said.

“Been busy, how are you? It’s good to hear your voice.” Andrew replied.

“It’s good to hear you too. Ah Andrew I miss you, come home.” Cheryl asked.

“I miss you too, but you know I can’t come home. Anyways how are the kids? I miss them so much.” Andrew said with pain in his voice.

“They miss their uncle very much. Come home Andrew please, work things out with your brother.”Cheryl replied.

“Cheryl, look I don’t think that’s a good idea, any way I called to talk to you and the kids.” Andrew added.

“Well since you asked, your nephew is doing well in school and you niece has made the honor roll.” Cheryl said.

“Really, wow that’s great. How is Rob with sports?” Andrew asked.

“Doing well, not as well as when you were here, but he’s coping.” Cheryl replied.

“How are things between you and William?”Andrew asked.

“So, so, but I’m going to keep trying.” Cheryl said and then asked, “How’s Sammi?”

“She’s great, the job’s going well, everything has come together out here for me.” Andrew replied.

“I’m glad. Meet anyone yet.”Cheryl asked.

“No Cheryl that’s not what I have in mind. Anyway I have a place now, here’s the address and the number.” Andrew waited until she had a pen and paper in hand and gave her the information. Then he spoke to his niece and nephew. When they were finished he said his goodbyes and I love you, he was satisfied. Then he got up to get ready for work.

“It’s a long story; someday I’ll have to tell you, but right now go see about Sonia. Be sure to call me later and let me know what happened.” Hanging up he got into his jeep and drove off. He was on the highway heading to the office worrying about Sonia’s situation. It’s going to bother him all day until Sandy calls.

While working at the site his cell phone rang. It’s Sandy, she called to let him know Sonia’s all right but she has to rest as much as possible for the next couple of days. Andrew felt better knowing that nothing serious was wrong with Sonia or the baby. It’s in everyone’s best interest if he stays away for a while.

Andrew felt it best to stay out of Sonia’s way and started coming home late and leaving early, making sure never to be in contact with her in any way. He felt bad and helpless. He’s always been there for people he cared about, but she was not ready. Andrew knows that he can be a great deal of help to her in this time during her pregnancy, but she didn’t trust him and that would hinder any plans he has of helping.

There was another way, he decided to leave breakfast for her with Sandy asking her please not to tell Sonia it’s from him.

One day he finally mentioned the situation with his sister-in-law and her pregnancy to Sandy.

Sandy was amazed that he would still remember about his sister-in-law’s pregnancy or that he would associate it with Sonia’s. She was glad that her first assumption of him was correct; he can help out a great deal and hopes that things will be normal again, soon.

Later that day, while Sandy and James were doing some cleaning she came across several pictures of them while there were dating. Sandy smiled to herself remembering what wonderful times they had dating and getting to know each other. It felt good being loved so completely, still does. She came across another picture this time one of her and Sonia in college. They had some great times and she was hoping one day that Sonia would find someone who loves her as much as James loves Sandy. Sonia’s recent incident popped into her mind. She knows that Andrew would be good for Sonia but she doesn’t want anything to do with him. She wants most of all for Sonia to know the kind of happiness she has with James and have a healthy happy baby. But with Sonia it’s hard for her to trust anyone.

James kept looking in her direction, he knew what his wife was thinking most of the time and right now he’s sure she is plotting. He did all he could to stop her, telling her it would not work, her meddling and to leave it alone. She of course smiled and went back to work. Sandy has a plan to get Sonia and Andrew together but she’s not going to let James in on it just yet.