Bound by fate

Chapter 7

Bryan's POV

I should have known Caresha was up to something when she invited me out for dinner. It’s unusual for her to take the initiative like that.

I take a moment to compose myself, ensuring my poker face is in check, before walking toward the table where she’s seated with Matilda.

“Hello, Caresha. I wasn’t expecting another guest for our dinner,” I say, watching Matilda turn red with embarrassment.

“Not that you’re an unwelcome guest,” I add quickly, attempting to soften the blow.

Matilda clears her throat, likely preparing a response, but Caresha cuts her off with a smirk, clearly unbothered by the awkwardness she’s created.

“Oh, please, Bryan. You’ll survive one extra person at dinner. Besides, Matilda and I were already having a great time before you arrived.”

Matilda shoots her a warning look, but Caresha barrels on, undeterred. “You two already know each other, right? This is perfect! No awkward introductions needed.”

I glance at Matilda. Her expression teeters between irritation and discomfort, and guilt stirs within me for referring to her as an unexpected guest though I’m certain this situation is entirely Caresha’s doing.

“We’ve met. You arranged the meeting,” I say evenly as I take a seat across from Matilda.

“Really?” Caresha feigns surprise, leaning forward with a mischievous grin. “Well, that’s convenient. Maybe this dinner can double as a business meeting, and you two can wrap things up.”

“I don’t mix business with pleasure,” I reply smoothly, briefly meeting Matilda’s gaze before she looks away.

Matilda clears her throat again, her voice steady this time. “There’s not much more to discuss about the project. It hasn’t even started yet.”

“That’s good to hear,” I say, leaning back in my chair. “I’d hate to think I’m causing you any unnecessary stress.”

Her eyes meet mine briefly, a flicker of defiance sparking in their depths. “Don’t do that and You’re not.”

I smile at that statement. “I’m not doing anything”

Caresha claps her hands together, breaking the tension. “Great! Now that we’ve cleared the air, can we order? I’m starving.”

“No, you’re not, because we just finished eating and were about to leave,” Matilda interjects, trying to rise from her seat. I stand quickly and pull back her chair to assist her.

Just then, Simone arrives at the table, her timing as impeccable as ever.

“Well, isn’t this cozy,” she remarks, raising an eyebrow and glancing between Matilda and me.

“Very,” I reply dryly.

Matilda offers Simone a polite smile, though I notice how she stiffens slightly.

“So, Bryan,” Simone begins, turning her attention to me, “what have you been up to lately? Besides attending surprise dinners, of course.”

“Just work,” I reply casually. “And navigating Caresha’s matchmaking attempts.”

Matilda makes a choking sound and starts coughing uncontrollably. I grab her water glass and hand it to her.

Caresha bursts out laughing. “Guilty as charged! You’re both single and amazing. Don’t act like I’m not doing you a favor.”

“Yes, Simone. He’s single. Everyone knows he’s not with Vanessa anymore”, Caresha says while Simone looks at her exasperated.

Matilda groans softly, pressing a hand to her temple. “Caresha, stop.”

Simone chuckles, clearly entertained by the dynamic at the table. “Well, this just got interesting.” “Hey, man,” a familiar voice says, breaking the tension.

“Hey, buddy,” I reply, shaking Taylor’s hand.

“I didn’t know you were back in town,” I add.

“Oh, I just got in earlier today. I was hoping for a quiet dinner with my girl,” he says pointedly, his gaze landing on Simone, who looks down guiltily.

“Well, we’re done here and about to leave,” Taylor announces. “I’ll see you on Saturday yeah?” he asks before walking away with Simone.

“Yeah, buddy,” I mutter.

“Alright. See you on Saturday”, he adds before walking away with Simone.

I turn back to see Matilda saying her goodbyes to Caresha and heading toward the door. Her cab has arrived.

“You didn’t have to call a cab. I could have dropped you off,” I offer.

“See? I told her the same thing!” Caresha chimes in, still seated and enjoying her dessert.

“You don’t have to do that. The driver’s already here,” Matilda replies.

“The dinner idea didn’t seem so bad after all,” I say, holding her gaze. “Maybe we could do this again sometime?”

“I’m sorry, but I can’t,” she replies firmly. “The only reason I’d meet with you is for work. Anything beyond that isn’t something I’m interested in. Goodnight, Bryan.” She walks away, leaving me frozen.

I exhale and drop into my seat.

“She’s probably been through a lot with men, I mean,” Caresha says softly. “She’s a single mom and cautious about adding anyone new to her circle.”

I snap my head up. “A single mom? She has a child?”

Caresha’s face pales, realizing her slip. “Oh my God, she didn’t tell you? Damn it, Caresha, your big mouth!”

“You didn’t hear that from me, Bryan,” she adds quickly, chiding herself.

She stands abruptly. “That’s enough dessert for me. I need to retire early; I’ve got a flight to Houston at 8 a.m.”

“Enjoy your solo dinner,” she teases.

“If I wanted to eat alone, I’d have declined your invitation and gone home,” I retort, scowling as I stand and call my driver.

“Can I drop you off, or are you going to decline my kindness too?” I ask sarcastically. “Don’t be so petty,” Caresha laughs. “Thanks, but I drove here. See you next time, Bryan.”

She waves from her car and drives off. My driver arrives, and I settle into the backseat, letting the tension of the evening dissipate.

At home, I head to the kitchen. Though the chef has prepared a meal, I’m not hungry. I grab a bowl, make myself a yogurt parfait, and take it to my room. After finishing it, I shower and collapse into bed.

I’m jolted awake by my phone ringing. Groggy, I pick it up without checking the caller ID. “You bastard!” a voice screams, followed by a loud crash.

I sit up immediately, startled. Glancing at the screen, I see Vanessa’s name flashing.