Bella's Choice

Chapter 4: Love at first sight

This was the first time Anabella had felt this way about any man. She had never experienced weak knees, or a racing heart for the opposite s*x. In fact, because of her parents' lifestyle she saw men as self-absorbed and horny, only interested in one thing. With this man, it was different. She felt safe, not wanting to run as far as possible. Yet, she hadn't even spoken to him and already she felt a certain way about him. In fact, she wanted to get even closer.

Her innocence and shyness caused her to look away when she caught the smile on his face. In turn, he was feeling a bit out of place, but he returned her gaze. He could tell she was aware of his gaze by the constant blush on her cheeks. He did not reveal anything but a good dose of curiosity, and a beautiful smile.

With a deep, strong voice he greeted her, taking her hand in his. “Hello, sweetheart," he said. The endearing word fell naturally from his lips.

She nodded and greeted him as if it was the most natural thing to do. “Aldrich, pleased to meet you."

“The pleasure is all mine, sweetheart."

She looked up at him and saw a spark of approval in his eyes. His hands were muscular and calloused, not the hands of an office jock.

He was self-assured, and confidence oozed out of him. As he spoke, his voice resembled the sound of a summer rain rumbling. It made her tingle all over and those eyes… she could disappear into them. She let go of his hand as she smiled, not too sure what to reply, and looked around the room for her friend who had left her right after the introduction.

Before long, she returned her gaze to him. His closeness affected her heart rate greatly, his presence sent out rays of calmness that filtered through her, and she felt at ease next to him.

ӁӁӁ

Mr. Richter came in with drinks and a glass of orange juice on a tray, offering it to Anabella and Aldrich. They turned as he spoke from behind them, forcing them to break the gaze they had been sharing for a few minutes, though they were still very much aware of each other.

“Something to drink, Aldrich? Here is your orange juice, Anabella."

Both reached out, Anabella taking the orange juice, and Aldrich the drink offered to him.

“Thanks, sir. Can I help with the tray?" Aldrich offered.

“It's fine," he replied, placing the tray in the hands of his son who had just joined them.

“This is a girl to watch on TV tomorrow, Aldrich," Mr. Richter said proudly.

Anabella couldn't help but blush; she was never one for much attention.

“Tomorrow, she will bring a gold medal or two back for swimming. As a community, we are very proud of her accomplishments." Admiration was evident on Mr. Richter's face when he looked at her.

For a moment, Anabella thought about her parents, who didn't care or ever speak to her in the same manner as Mr. Richter. They never gave her any attention. As parents, they missed it completely. For a fleeting moment, a sad look appeared in her eyes, a look that Aldrich didn't miss before the sparkle returned.

Aldrich wondered what could have upset this vibrant girl. The air around her was filled with energy and excitement; so why then the brief sadness? He knew very little about her, but he wanted to be the one who could wipe that sadness away. He wanted to know more.

“Thanks, Mr. Richter, you are very kind. Now I know I have to bring back the gold medal," Anabella replied softly, the blush still on her cheeks. She could feel Aldrich's gaze and looked away, hoping to find Monica somewhere in the room. However, she was nowhere to be seen.

“I only say it because it is true, Anabella. You have worked hard."

“Thank you, sir." She accepted the praise, taking a sip of her orange juice in an attempt to swallow past the lump in her throat.

“It is a lovely evening, spring is in the air; I can smell it. Let's go outdoors, tables and chairs have already been put outside. Make yourselves comfortable and enjoy the evening," Mr. Richter said to the group.

“I know I will enjoy the evening," said Aldrich, and he looked down at Anabella.

A pleased look appeared in those big, blue eyes as she spoke to Mr. Richter. “Thanks again, sir."

Anabella looked up to find Aldrich's gaze on her. A delighted chill ran down her spine. His words had sounded like a promise of enjoyment―only meant for her.

Mr. Richter chuckled, adding playfully, “Enjoy, you two."

Aldrich grinned with delight, taking a sip of his drink.

The blush on her face said it all.