Ain't Meant For LOVE..!

Are You Feeling It Too?

Tasha’s P.O.V

We were seated in the large auditorium set up for the event. On the stage, there was a long table set which was covered with a white linen on the top and maroon linen at the front which was facing the audience. The cloth that hung had pleats. The chairs provided were white in colour and had sofa-type cushioning. The chairs weren’t high raised but definitely modern keep. The back area was covered with the logo of the company which had ‘Merbourn’ Etched in deep red and circled by white. The circling width varied from thicker to thin. The thickest width started from the corner of the Letter M and thinning as it reached a little over the letter N. Enterprise was written in small letters below the Merbourn that was now bounded.

There were name cards on every seat along with a small drinking water bottles made of fibre (As we don’t use Plastics anymore). Then there was a podium to our left which was made up of transparent glass. There were two stainless steel stands holding it. It also screamed ‘Class’ from it. Below the stage was a big table made of maroon granite placed and had a Sign ‘Press’ beside it. The rest hall was filled with maroon chairs just like ours.

I smiled at the arrangement and knew who might be its In-charge. Leina and Katie... The auditorium was still streaming in by the guests as the press got themselves comfortable in their allotted area, getting their recorders in check. I looked to my side and found Damien missing. Peering at the wrist watch I realized, the event was about to start and yet his seat was vacant.

Anxiously I tapped my feet, wondering where he went. Last time I remembered we entered this hall together.

“Dear, would you mind looking for Damien?” Charles said to me in a low voice as he passed me a forced smile.

I know he was anxious too but doesn’t want to show it to others. I nodded and bee lined to the exit. Having tried calling him for like the second time and still unanswered, now I was worried where to search for him. I looked for Ben. Yeah, he was a magic worker at these times.

“Mr. Menon... There you are....” I called out to him as he was about to enter the hall. He looked a little surprised. “I want you to find Mr. Jr. Williams for me.” I gave him my best puppy eyes as he rolled his eyes at me.

“You know I would have done that anyway. Why giving me that irresistible look? But only at one condition...” he waited.

“Condition? Okay agreed. Now go on.” I was impatient with his crap at this crucial hour.

“Call me Ben. That’s it.” He shrugged and fished out his cell phone as he started hacking all the security cameras in and outside the building.

“You know there is a saying that goes... looking for a thing when it is in the mouth...” He smiled at me and said, “In this damned restroom behind the auditorium.” Thus, answering the confusion in my face.

“Oh! Thanks Ben“.  And I rushed towards the restroom.

I didn’t wait outside and barged in halting only at the voices inside. It was Damien’s and some woman.

I didn’t know what I should do as I waited just outside the cubicle.

“I don’t have anything to do with you anymore.” Damien seemed pissed off.

“I know and I am really sorry. But I thought you would want to know the reason why I left you.” The woman said in a hurt voice.

Another moment of silent passed and as on cue, I knocked the door and announced my presence.

“Damien, the ceremony is started. Don’t let your dad down.”

After some shuffling, Damien came outside, seemingly off with his few shirt buttons undone and messed up hair; followed by that woman who looked at me indignantly.

I don’t know why I felt a little... hurt?? Why? I refused to look in his eyes as I raised my hands to set his hair back. He went stiff for a moment and then relaxed. I was about to reach for his buttons when he stopped me and asked me to lead the way.

***

“Good morning everyone, I, Leina Lawrence, employ of the Merbourn Enterprise Healthcare Division welcomes you all on behalf of our company. It’s a great pleasure to see you all take out your prized time to witness the re-naming our new CEO. I would like to first call the owner and current CEO to say a few words before starting the event. Ladies and gentlemen please give a loud applaud for Mr. Charles Williams.”

(Applaud)

I smiled at Leina who was not less than the Greek Goddess herself. In the royal blue ruffled shirt, black blazer and a black skirt she gave me an excited little wave. She too had green eyes, was a blonde and had a round face with full lips. Her hair was short with bob cut while Rachel had shoulder length. This girl had a thin figure and was about the height of Rachel. But yet she was nothing like that mean woman. I know she is upto something whereas the girl standing in front of me was lively.

She turned to listen to her cousin. Katie Douglas was her cousin and they shared their round face, sharp nose and thin bodies and of course their love for latest fashion. Katie had curly hair which were shoulder length and ginger hair. Her eyes were hazel and lips were heart shaped. She was lively but mostly silent.

(Applaud)

That brought my attention back. I was constantly thinking what I could do to get Mr. Jr. Williams out of her clutches when I felt a nudge in my side.

“Your turn.” Charles motioned me.

I stood up, palms sweating as I made my way towards the podium.

“Welcome everyone and thank you all for being here and those who have become a family of this company now. I, Tasha Sharma, take immense pleasure to be a part of this family as well. I joined this firm a year and half ago. I learned a lot here that has helped me sharpen my skills. I would say, the company and I had grown together. Remembering we were the second batch that was employed under the healthcare dept., it was spread over only in New York. But by the gone year, it has well established its root in more than three countries and I proudly say that the results are same for other branches and services. It housed me, gave me a new motivation and am thrilled to accept the position of Personal Assistant and co-H.O.D. to ensure it will keep progressing....”

I let my heart pour out as I am attached to this company and I was determined to not let it fall in the wrong hands. That gave me an idea and as I finished my speech, I decided to talk to Mr. Charles.

Taking back my seat, I saw Charles profoundly happy. Then came Damien; giving his speech and taking his oath as the new CEO. Signing off some papers, they seated to answer the press and get some photo shoots. I couldn’t help but notice his stress. I have to act fast.

Buzz... Buzz... Buzz...

I steal a glance and smiled. Finally, Edward decided to call me. Excusing myself, I made my way back to the exit. Before I could have answered, the call got disconnected. I turned around to see guests leaving, some mingling and others enjoying food and drinks.

“Booo...” I let out a small shrill as I covered my eyes and mouth and a hand over my chest.

Not looking beside, I hit him hard. “You i***t. I hate you, wait till I can get my hands on you.”

Edward chuckled, “I am all yours babe, why don’t you try now?” earning one more slap from me.

“I don’t want to talk to someone who can abandon me for so long. You didn’t even miss me.” I tried putting up a face.

“O I am sorry cupcake. I was testing whether it would hurt you or not.” He grinned.

“Shut up. By the way, I have a surprise for you. Why don’t you come with me?” Now he was surprised but curious.

I took him inside and motioned him to look to my 5 o’clock. His eyes bulged out.

“What the f**k is she doing here?” Edward was furious.

-‘So I was right. She is definitely Rachel. I have to ask him about her.’-

I opened my mouth but he was called upon by some of his colleagues as he waved to me and went with them. Seeing a chance I went to meet Mr. Charles.

***

I am not sure what I did was right or wrong but I definitely felt guilty. I think I would be able to explain myself. I was standing at the rooftop of the Fella building. The party was on its full swing. People were dancing, grinding, feasting and talking. Some couples were making out in the dark and some didn’t really pay attention to anyone. Avoiding them I went down towards the bar. I was looking for Edward but he was missing again. I don’t know what he is hiding from me.

Mr. Charles was also here, he really was handsome and there was no doubt Damien had got his looks from him. He passed me an encouraging smile and came to sit beside me.

“Don’t fret. You are doing it right. If the right time comes, I am sure you will be able to explain it.”

I just gave him a small smile. “Charles, what if he gets me wrong considering what his ex did, there is slight to no possibility that he would understand.”

“Situation and time are two great things. Also, I am damn sure he knows you well.” Charles stood up, putting his drink back and then placing mine too back on the counter, he held my hands and took me to the dance floor.

“May I have a dance with the beautiful lady here.” Charles grinned widely and we both burst into laughter.

We waltz around the floor and when we were done, he kissed my cheek lightly and headed for home.

Feeling good, I started to search for Damien now.

-‘I haven’t seen him since his oath. Where are you Damien? You should listen to me before it is late.’-

I went to one of the roof again. Having waited for too long, I was getting tipsy. I made my way downstairs and that’s when I dashed into him.

“Damien, I wanted to...” my words got swallowed in my throat as I took in his disheveled look. There was lipstick smeared on his lips and hair tousled. Clothes seemed to be worn in a hurry.

I dunno why but I felt a pang of pain in my chest. I was about to cry so averted my gaze and turned to go.

“Tasha it isn’t what it looks like. You should listen to me.”

I took a deep breath and forced myself to face him. –I cannot let him control my emotions.-

“It’s okay Mr. Williams you need not explain me anything. After all, it is your life and she is your ex.” I don’t know why but I sounded bitter.

“Tasha... I want to tell you something.” Before he could have said anything, that b***h called him out. Seeing me there, she rushed and hugged him from back.

“Love, why did you come here?” she cooed to him.

I was jealous now and I don’t effin’ care what they would think of my actions but I cannot let her have her ways with him. –Time to act Tasha.-

“Excuse me, I think you are mistaken. He isn’t your love.” With every word I removed her fingers around his waist and pushed her back.

Taking his hands in mine, intervening our fingers; I pushed him closer to my side and faced her. I could feel his gaze on me but I ignored.

“Who the f**k are you and what are you doing with my fiance?” she spat at me.

“Fiancé? (I laughed wryly) I don’t remember seeing you before? Let me think... (Tapping a finger on my lips) I got it... Ain’t you Rachel? The one who couldn’t decide who the hell will be CEO to plan her next move?” I glared at her.

She gasped and gave me murderous look. “Don’t think you can manipulate Damien. As far as I can see it is you- a gold digger. I always loved him and he still loves me.” She said confidently.

I turned to look at Damien to wait him reject her notion but he stayed still as she smirked at me. I felt humiliated. Ignoring the pain, I looked straight into Rachel’s eyes. “If ever I see you near him, or hurt him; trust me Rachel you would regret that day. Mind you, never even as much as look in his direction or I will make sure you won’t be able to see the next thing again.” I took in her horrified expression before pulling him with me.

We were alone, outside the building in my car, as I closed my eyes and lay my head back on the head rest. I felt him caressing my cheeks as he cupped my face. I was tipsy and couldn’t think clear. I felt him getting close. I opened my eyes and that’s when he pulled me closer to him and hid me in his chest.

I could hear his heart thumping and could smell his cologne as it calmed my nerves. He raked his hand through my hair and arched my head a little so that I could look into his eyes. He is so handsome with the not-so-thick eyebrows and his sharp pointed nose. He has perfectly straight and pearly white teeth. His jaw line so sharp and those eyes... crystal deep blue, they held countless emotions. I could see tears, hurt, unknown emotions and love.

-‘Does he love me?-

I prayed hard that it be true. I wanted him to love me, it felt right that way.

We kept staring into each other’s eyes, as we started to close our distance. My heart raced wildly and I forgot about everything. His lips touched mine blowing off my reasoning, my feelings and my emotions. I drowned in his kiss as I felt myself responding to him. Our breath mixed, our hands moved caressing each other’s face, throats and hair as my hands hooked itself around his neck.

His tongue entered my mouth sending tingling sensation through my body. My body heated up as I grabbed his hair and we fought for dominance. His tongue leading mine, as we were fighting to lose ourselves into each other. It turned from sweet to passionate as our body merged together. He poured his heart out in that kiss and I couldn’t help but go with the flow.

We broke the kiss slowly to breathe again. Panting heavily, I opened my eyes to look him devouring my face with his eyes. I lowered my site only to find myself straddling him. I was sitting on his lap with my hands still around him. I could feel something below. Then there was something happening in my lower region which was irritating me. I quickly detached myself from him and took my seat. I rev up the engine and headed home.

I hate to say that, as much I want this I cannot let it happen; not at this moment but I am afraid to see him break under that girl. The very thought of him with any girl was infuriating. I hit hard on my steering wheel causing him to look at me questioningly.

I gave him a smile shaking my head and looking forward again.

-‘This is so wrong. He doesn’t know the truth girl, you are gonna hurt him like she did.’-