Love or Lust?

She walked hurriedly towards the black jeep in front of the huge beautifully decorated hall. Immediately, two hefty men alighted from the Jeep and were undoubtedly bodyguards. Her heart stopped abruptly as she halted and turned her head backward realizing she was still being trailed. She shifted her gaze back to the Jeep and saw a tall man in a dark suit emerging from the Jeep. His dressing exuded confidence, and instantly, an idea struck her. As the bodyguards closed the door, she rushed to him. As she grabbed his arm firmly, the guards came forward. "Hey, ma'am. You can't do that.' One of the bodyguards said, his tone laced with urgency. "Darling., I'm so sorry for delaying you. I could not get a cab on time.' She let out calmly even though her heart was racing madly. As she raised her head to stare at the unknown man whose arm she grabbed, she pondered whether her sudden idea would work. "Darling? But I........ Tipping on her toes, she leaned towards him and sealed his lips with an unexpected kiss. The bodyguards glanced at each other and then shifted away from them instantly. Without saying a word, she turned her gaze to the back and realized the men who were chasing her had disappeared. Her idea worked! "Hey, who are you?" The man blurted out, unsure of what to say. "I am so sorry, mister. You just saved my life and I won't forget you! Thank you very much." She retorted but a strong hand reached out and grabbed hers. "If you are that desperate to... "Can you let me go? They are going to kill me!" She screamed, tears filling her eyes as she wriggled her hand free. Probably softened by the tears that were already falling to her cheeks, the man let go of her hand and watched as she ran off into the night. His bodyguards attempted to pursue her, but he stopped them. "We came here for an important event. We shouldn't associate ourselves with a mad woman." He declared sternly. The bodyguards nodded and they all entered the hall. ~~~~~~~~~~~ "And the award goes to...... Miss Ivy Ashby!' The moderator proclaimed happily. Applause filled the air as a stunning lady stood up from her seat. She beamed as she walked to the stage, her hand waving at the audience. Meanwhile, a particular eye was glued intensely on her. His eyes lingered on her as he studied her dress. Her black hair was styled in a bun and her dress was designed with light crystals. The dress revealed her back and everyone admired her perfect posture as she walked to the moderator. A sudden tap caused him to lose focus, and he turned his head to the side. "Mr. Jones wants to have a private chat with you, boss." A woman in a casual outfit whispered behind him. "Where is he?" He questioned, his tone low. "At the terrace." She answered back. Without saying a word, he stood up and headed outside while the lady followed him. Ivy could not believe her eyes. Her dream came true. Her fingers trembled slightly as she received the award from the moderator and the applause died down. She turned to the microphone and stared at the seas of faces staring back at her. Finally, she cleared her throat and opened her mouth to speak. "This is not possible without you guys. You did this. We did this!" She said and the hall roared with applause again. "That was a very short but wonderful speech from you, Miss Ashby or should I say best model of the year? ' The moderator said and Ivy beamed. "'It's time for the judges and our VIP members to take pictures with the best of the year model!' He added and soon, Ivy took pictures with the reputable people and other special guests. Shortly after, the real party began. Richard walked back in and as the moderator's eyes landed on him. He motioned for him to come over. Richard nodded then walked up to them. "It is so nice to see you. Please, come stand here beside Miss Ashby and take a picture before I begin the introduction. You all know I'm enthusiastic about taking good pictures." The moderator said and everyone smiled. Cameras clicked at them continously and after taking the pictures, they all dispersed leaving Richard and Ivy. Richard turned to the award-winning model, stretching his hand forward. Their gazes met. The model accepted his handshake but he furrowed his brows. He had seen her somewhere. "I am Ivy Ashby and you are.... I guess, Mr. Richard. Right?". She asked politely. Richard gave no reply. He had seen her before but he could not remember where. "Mr. Richard? Are you okay?' She asked, observing his expression. "Yes, yes. I'm fine." He replied as he withdrew his hand. "Have you by any chance seen me before?" She chuckled softly. "Who doesn't know you? Although I have never seen you in real life except now, I have only seen a few of your pictures in magazines and TV interviews. You're popular so it's unbelievable for someone not to know you." Richard only nodded. "Cool. But I.. "I am sorry, Mr. Richard, I have to go now. I can't bear it if those reporters surround me, I must leave. See you soon." She interrupted, then rushed away from him. Richard watched as she walked briskly towards the entrance followed by her team. His eyes lit up as he recalled where he had seen her. It was years back. She kissed him on the lips and ran off. He quickly rushed after her but it was too late. She had entered her car and numerous reporters were sawarming on her. As soon as they sighted Richard, they rushed towards him but his guards quickly stopped themwalking away through the back majestic door with graceful strides. That was how she ran away from him years ago! "What is your opinion on the Miss Ashby Award?" A reporter asked, her microphone pointed directly at Richard's face. Richard hesitated at first then answered back. "I don't know her personally but I feel she's deserving. Thank you." His guards secured the way as he walked to the parking lot. As soon as he got three, his driver opened the door and he slid in. The driver then entered and drove off while the bodyguards maintained the security. Richard relaxed his head on his seat as he closed his eyes. She is truly the one. She might have changed over the years but he could not forget her. She looked far better than then then and the way judging the way she conversed with him, it seems she was avoiding him.