Bella's Choice

Chapter 3: Meeting the young girl

Aldrich was standing at the big living room window looking out at the parking area when the silver Renault Clio pulled up and stopped. At first, he only saw long, booted legs appearing out of the car, and then the girl climbed out and stood up. She was a beauty from where he stood. She walked to the house until she reached the door and knocked. Illuminated by the light of the porch, he could see she was a beauty, a tall beautiful girl with long, straight hair. This had to be Anabella. He had heard so much about Monica's swimmer friend.

Tim had also mentioned her often, especially over the last month, to the point of nagging. At first, Aldrich hadn't wanted to go but Tim kept on, convincing him. Tim had said he wanted to introduce him to someone special, a friend of Monica's. He had met Monica a few times over the years, and knew she was much younger. That would make her friend the same age and he was not in the mood for babysitting. However, if this was the same girl, she was not only very young, but a very young girl.

Perhaps I will stay a while and check things out. If nothing comes of it, I can always leave.

She was graceful in movement and strength, not typical of a girl her age, so it caught his attention. She is definitely young, eighteen, he thought. Maybe too young, but Tim had insisted he must meet this girl.

“She's really special," he said.

From Tim's stories, she'd been practically raised by his parents.

People gathered around, coming closer to the door to greet her, as Monica called out, “Anabella is here!" excited that her friend made it, making a big announcement of it. Everyone was glad about this news.

Aldrich watched her carefully, his eyes curiously fixed on the young girl.

“Come in, Anabella!" Monica greeted her with a big smile. “I am so glad you came." She pulled her by the hand. “You look beautiful."

Monica welcomed her into the house, glad to see her friend. For the past few weeks, they had both been busy with studies and outdoor activities. Both were also on the Prefect list with their own assigned duties. Not much time was left for visits or chatting.

Monica was also attractive, but smaller build; slender. She was very blond. At first you would think it came from a bottle, but on closer inspection, she was all natural with big, blue eyes and a broad smile that reached her eyes.

“Hi, my friend." She hugged Anabella fiercely, joyful as she talked.

“It's lovely to see you again, thanks for the invite."

A beautiful smile adorned her face, two identical dimples appeared in her cheeks, and Aldrich believed that it was the most beautiful smile he had ever seen. His interest was growing rapidly.

“Hi, Mr. and Mrs. Richter, how are you?" She looked at Monica's parents, reaching for their hands.

“Very well," replied Mr. Richter. “Tomorrow is the big day, hey?" Mr. Richter continued, squeezing her hand. “I know it will go well for you. The gold medal is practically yours as I see it. It is only a formality. You have put in the time and effort. We will be watching it on TV tomorrow."

“Thanks, Mr. Richter, I appreciate the confidence you have in me. I hope to make you all proud." A light blush appeared on her cheeks, enhancing the young, oval face.

Monica plucked at Anabella's sleeve. “Come, Anabella, I want you to meet Tim's friend, Aldrich."

Anabella turned to face him. Her mouth became dry, and her heart stopped for a second. This must be the hunk, she contemplated her friend's words as she continued chattering away.

“They work together at the same firm in the city."

She looked at the most gorgeous man she had ever seen. She had to look up at him, and although she was five-foot-ten, he was still taller. Short, dark, golden-blond hair cut in the latest fashion crowned his head. He had big, sea-blue eyes. He was not a typical pretty boy, but a man with a firm jawline and rugged face. The shadow of day-old stubble made its appearance in a sexy manner. Charming character was written all over him, as well as experience in life; his lifelines a giveaway. Yet, he had a softness about him that made her want to step into his embrace and hug him, like a big teddy bear. Everything about him looked inviting to her.

I would love to be hugged by him, she thought, and almost giggled but covered it just in time. He had broad, straight shoulders that said lean on me. He was solid all right, and she bet that his clothes disguised muscles all over.

Sea-blue and emerald eyes met, and Anabella felt weak at the knees at the interested look he gave her. Throughout her young life, she had seen many men walk through the door of her parents' house. Pretty and handsome ones, her mother's favorite kind, but empty shells all the same; things in men that turned her off completely. But this man looked at her as if he saw her - past her outward appearance and at the real person - and that was a welcome first.

She knew she was beautiful. Many people had told her so, but somehow, under his gaze, she felt stunning and a warm feeling nestled in her belly.

A bit old for me, but very attractive, she thought and smiled at him, not the dimpled smile previously given to her friends, but enough for Aldrich to have a good look at.

And as soon as he'd seen that look, he'd immediately been in the mood for strawberries and cream, his favorite dessert. The rich velvety texture of the cream mixed with the sweet, pink fruit had always appealed to him. She reminded him of that, all velvety sweetness, and he smacked his lips. A soft smile appeared on his very lush lips.