Eαrlíєr

It may have been loneliness since it was not a working day, but Billion's mood was far from cheerful. Ever since he got off the phone with Emery, his nerves have been all over the place; in a not so good way.

And right now, as he unwind under the open evening sky, he awaited Emery's call in vague anxiety. Certainly, he was bound to be concerned because the last time she had said they needed to talk, it was to break up with him.

What did she want to tell me?

Turning onto his side, Billion picked up his cellphone from the end table and gave Samuel Cooper a call. The second the latter picked up, he barraged the guard with questions.  

"How did it go? Was she happy with the gift? You know I'll fire you if she did not-"

"Mr. Dekker," Samuel called gently from the other end. "I just left the Hamilton's, and Miss Hamilton was pleased with your gift."

Billion sighed inaudibly. "Thanks, Cooper. Call me when you get back to the club, there is something we need to discuss."

"Yes, sir."

Barely had Billion reclined back into the chaise lounge when a warm breath fanned the nape of his neck; one that contrasted between the cool breeze. He whirled around so fast that he almost knocked over the table in the process.

"Could you not do that?" he snapped.

Chanel rolled her eyes. Heedless of the glare being directed at her, she strolled over to the lounge adjoining Billion's and leisurely stretched her limbs.

Promptly, Billion looked away from those long legs that were bared to him. Picking up on his discomfort, Chanel turned to him with a grin.

"Oh chill those beautiful balls, Dekker. I'm only here to get some fresh air."

"I should leave you to it then." Billion edged off his lounge and slipped on his flops.

"Fine." drawing in a deep breath, Chanel said, "I need a favor."

"Then you are talking to the wrong person."

Billion made to walk out of the balcony but with swiftness, Chanel grabbed him by the shirt before he could even take another step.

"For Christ sake, Chanel what do you want?"

To hide her uneasiness she turned away from him. "Well, the thing is… Cullen is in town and he somehow knows about our little rendezvous. You know how much I care… forget that." Rubbing her pounding temples, she added, "If you could just talk to him and perhaps convince him that there is nothing going on between you and me…"

For the very first time, Billion saw the nervous side of Chanel Preston. But as much as the exposure was stirring, he was still unconvinced by her mimicry.

"And why should I help either of you, when that douche of an ex will shoot me on sight before I even…"

His cell phone rang, cutting him off.

"Give me a second." ignoring Chanel's impatient look, Billion strolled over to the rail to receive the call.

"Hey, you."

He beamed at the usual jolly greeting. Even when she was miles away, her soft-spoken voice was still his tranquilizer.

"Please don't tell me my gift was rejected."

"On the contrary …thank you for the beautiful birthday gift."

A gentle smile touched his lips. "Pleasure is all mine, Queen… phew, for a moment there I thought I'd have to fire Cooper."

"Stop scaring the poor guy."

Billion couldn't help but chuckle at her defense. Moments like this was what he yearned for, and what he would give, just to be back in Manhattan.

In anxiousness, Billion put forth the question he had been dreading. "so, earlier, you wanted to tell me something right?"

Undeniably turned-off by the display of affection going on right under her nose, Chanel scoffed and made to leave the balcony.

"Yeah. Well, today Natalia and I went to the-"

Billion was all ears as Emery spoke until a heavy thud from behind, had him whirling around. And there was Chanel sprawled on the ground.

"Is everything alright?"

Emery's question was not picked up since Billion had pulled the phone out of earshot.

As hushed as possible, he said, "What the hell is wrong with you?"

"It's your damn coffee table," Chanel snapped. Picking herself up, she stormed out of the balcony.

"Um, we can talk later if you are busy."

Called back to the moment, Billion quickly said, "No, no I'm really sorry about that…"

Her sharp intake of breath came from the other end before she spoke again. "Just tell me this… and please be honest with me, Billion… who are you with?"

What? What the hell is she thinking?

But from the change in her tone, Billion presumed Emery had heard his exchange with Chanel. In cold sweat, he raked his fingers through his hair over and over again.

"Em, please don't get any ideas… Chanel is only here because her…"

"You know what, Dekker? Let's talk when you're alone and less busy."

Damn this.

"Em, you've got this wrong…" to Billion's uttermost surprise, she hung up on him.

"Dammit, woman. We are too old to be playing this game."

But knowing it was up to him to clear her doubt, Billion quickly called her back. His call went through but was sent to voice mail. He tried numerous times to get in touch with Emery but all his attempts were fruitless. Begrudgingly, he sent her a voice note.

"Whatever you think is going on between Chanel and me, you've got it wrong. I could never do that to you, Em. The Preston's are only here with my mom on a visit. Please call me when you get this."

          
                                     · · • • • ✤ • • • · · 

If Emery had thought putting on platform heels would give her free reign, then she had clearly undermined her role as the honoree. Almost all of her well-wishers wanted to take a picture with her, but after minutes of unceasing snaps, her legs run out of strength.

"That's enough for the night. Come on." Taking charge, Christopher wrapped his arm around Emery's shoulders and drew her off the red carpet.

"I could use some little me time, Chris."

"You need not be reminded that it is not just about you anymore."

Christopher's protectiveness earned him an eye roll from his sister. Emery tarried along as he led her back inside, to the crowded bar where Natalia and a couple of known faces sat.

The music was loud enough for one to feel it in their bones, but over the bustle of blend music, the sonority of laughter and merrymaking could be heard. Streamers and disco balls fluttered from the ceiling, creating a glitter-illusion on the waxed hardwood floor—where huddles of body were grinding gaily against each other.  

Across from the neon glowed room, he watched her nibble on one of those decadent desserts being passed around. His Emery should have noticed him by now, but no, the lady he had been stalking for the last hour had barely looked his way.

Nonetheless, it was her choice of wardrobe which had gotten his attention the moment she arrived with her battalions. The velvet sequined dress hugged her to perfection, exposing those sun-kissed legs and leaving much to be desired by any man.

And much to his streak of luck, his main opponent was not there tonight.

If he could just get her alone, somewhere away from her annoying best friend or away from her brother's ever-watchful eyes.

He'd just have to bid his time.

Unaware of the peril that awaited her, Emery was living the night up.

"Come on, I know it hurts you to see her all moody so go talk to her." Emery shoved her brother in Natalia's direction.

Reluctantly, Christopher stepped up to the bar. Once done with her Cupid job, Emery strode over to one of the pitchers stationed at the exit, for a cup of water.

Not even a second after she had left the bar, a hand clamped around her arm. Taken aback by the act, Emery spun around only to bump into a broad chest. Her senses were assailed by a wonted cologne, and unsurprisingly, she glanced up to meet the smug face of Nicholas.

"Happy birthday, love," Nicholas said over the loud music.

"Thanks." As sociably as she could, Emery tugged her hand from his hold.

"I have a surprise for the birthday girl if she'd just step out with me." Shoving his hands inside his pants pocket, he awaited Emery's reply.

Nope.

Nothing good has come out of being alone with Nicholas ever since she got together with Billion. But as if staked in the heart, events from earlier stung their way in and clouded her sense of judgment. Fairly, she could also enjoy her evening without holding Billion Miles Dekker in mind.

He is probably enjoying the time of his life.

"It's just a peace offering, Em. Please give me a chance to apologize. Probably. I know I've lost your trust so feel free to ask Natalia to come along if that will make you feel secure," Nicholas said dejectedly.

Emery watched him under the neon light, taking in his slump shoulders and sorrowful eyes. He had learned his lesson, he had too. She will accept his peace offering but that was it.

"Sure, but where to?"

"We are just going to the terrace."

"Lead the way." Emery followed him as he led her through a narrow corridor and up a fleet of stairs.

The crisp breeze embraced her when they stepped into the terrace. There were two other couples at the terrace and that drove some of her fears away.

Although, the place was void of the uproar going on below, it was highly decked as a sitting area for lovers. Her steps slowed when Nicholas lead her to a table for two. It was decorated with a romantic touch.

"Wait, did you do all of this?" Emery asked.

"Of course." Nicholas glanced back at her and said, "You like it, right?"

"Um… yeah. It… this was very thoughtful of you but-"

"Anything for you, Em." he took her hand and helped her to her seat.

Wow, he was being very chivalrous. "So… what did you want to show me?" Emery asked.

"Just a second." Nicholas hoisted a bucket of champagne onto the table. "A toast first."

Although they had an audience and this set up looked like a friendly conversation, something felt wrong about his peace offering.

"Thanks but I can't really take alcohol. Besides, I think we should head back before Chris and…"

"And why not?" Nicholas cut her off.

Emery's breath caught when she met his penetrating gaze. Edging off her seat, she said, "J-Just doctors orders. I've been having some pretty bad stomach upset of late."

"Oh Okay. I'm sorry to hear that… a mocktail then?" Nicholas insisted.

Sullenly, Emery nodded. "Just one mocktail, then we head back."

"Sure, give me a second." without wasting time, Nicholas rushed out of the terrace.

Given the lone time, Emery fished her phone out of her clutch and against her better judgement, she went through her voice mails. More had arrived from him since the one he sent after their tiff.

Without her earpiece, she listened to the tons of apology and explanations. She realized her own misjudgment then and made it a point to call Billion back when she gets home.  

"Trouble in paradise?"

Not expecting Nicholas to be back so soon, the sneaky move got Emery all jittery. Quickly, she shoved her phone into her purse and offered him a closed-lipped smile.

"Just some misunderstanding." 

"Oh. Here you go, your iced mocktail per your request."

Emery took the flute from him. "Thanks."

Nicholas sat across from her and poured himself a glass of champagne. "Is that why he is not here with you?"

Just how much did he hear?

"Not really… he couldn't make it because he is out of town," Emery defended.

To keep the meeting steady, Nicholas stirred the conversation from his rival. "Nice party by the way."

Emery shrugged. "All thanks to Natalia."

When Emery took a sip of her mocktail, she held back for a second as her taste buds tried to sort out the overly delicious drink.

"So, when are you going back to school?" she asked.

Nicholas chuckled. "If I didn't know better, I'd say you're trying to get rid of me."

"I'm sorry, that was not what I meant-"

"No offense taken, Em. Go on, drink up. We should be getting ready to head back before Christopher sends a search party after us."

"I'm guessing this is your peace offering?" Emery said just to be sure.

"This and more but that will come later." Nicholas raised his flute in a silent toast. Over the rim of his glass, his hooded gaze lingered on her as she sipped her drink.

"Emery?" The party basically ended for the two when Natalia barged into the terrace.

Upon seeing Emery's company, Natalia stormed over to them and accosted Nicholas without charge. "What are you doing here?"

"What does it look like?" Nicholas snapped.

Not again. "Talia, please be nice. He just wanted to talk."

"I highly doubt that." Natalia glared at Nicholas. "You shouldn't trust him after everything he did."

"Natalia…"

"I'm just worried about you and the baby, Em."

As if burnt by his champagne, Nicholas spat it out. He turned back to Emery with a look that could massacre.

"What the hell is she talking about?"

"Do I need to spell it out for you, McLean?"

"Enough of this, Natalia!" 

Emery lowered her empty flute on the table and stood up. The sudden motion had her vision flickering but out of anger, she brushed the uneasiness aside and waddled out of the terrace.

"Just move on, McLean." sending Nicholas another haughty look, Natalia went after her friend. 

Newly conscious of his misdeed, Nicholas grabbed the mocktail flute and hurled it against a wall before storming out of the terrace. 

By all means, he had to find a way to get Emery to retch it out without bringing attention to himself.

     
                                · · • • • ✤ • • • · ·

The party was waning down and it was high time Emery called it a night. She felt sick to her stomach and the short walk to the parking lot was taken through haziness.

"Em, please stop proving stubborn and let us drop you off," Christopher said anxiously as he and his girlfriend trailed after his sister. 

Not even bothering to glance at the two, Emery waved the offer of. Riding in the same car with Natalia when she was still upset with her was not on her list.

"I can take care of myself. Enjoy your evening, both of you need it," Emery seethed as she glanced around for an available cab.

"If it's me you don't want to deal with, then at least let's call an Uber for you," Natalia intoned.

"Like I said, I can damn well take care of myself." Emery took it out on her. "You should really learn to keep quiet."

Having had enough of the girlish quarrel, Christopher got in between both ladies. "That's enough, both of you. I'm calling an Uber for you, Em…"

"There will be no need for that." The group turned to see Nicholas, just a feet away from them. "I'm heading back home. I can give Emery a ride if she doesn't mind."

"I don't think she should go home with her," Natalia cut in quickly as she eyed Nicholas.

Christopher stared at the three of them, confused by what was going on. He looked at his sister who couldn't even stand straight on her feet.

"Did you take any alcohol?" he asked her.

"What? No." Emery muttered, her tongue feeling heavy all of a sudden. "I'm just feeling a bit queasy that's all. If we're done here I'd like to go home and get some rest, please."

"Are you OK with getting a ride with Nicholas?" Christopher asked.

Feeling out of her skin and clearly wanting to deal away with her overly protective squadron, Emery nodded.

Christopher turned to Nicholas and said, "Get her home safely. And don't try anything funny McLean cause I will find you and you will not make it to jail."

Nicholas gulped harshly and gave Christopher a vigorous nod. The man was not to be trifled with, every youngster in the neighborhood knew this. He was not going to test his limit.

"Come on, Em." Emery accepted Nicholas' steady arms and got into his car.

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ʜɪ 👋

ᴏɴᴇ ǫᴜɪᴄᴋ ǫᴜᴇsᴛɪᴏɴ; ɪs ᴛʜᴇ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ᴅɪғғᴇʀᴇɴᴄᴇ ᴄᴏɴғᴜsɪɴɢ?

ɪғ ʏᴏᴜ ᴇɴᴊᴏʏᴇᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ ᴋɪɴᴅʟʏ ʟᴇᴀᴠᴇ sᴏᴍᴇ ʟᴏᴠᴇ. ||ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴛ, ᴠᴏᴛᴇ & sʜᴀʀᴇ||

ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴᴛᴇʀᴇsᴛɪɴɢ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀs ᴄᴏᴍɪɴɢ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴡᴀʏ sᴏ sᴛᴀʏ ᴛᴜɴᴇᴅ.

ᴏʜ, ᴅᴏ ʙʀɪɴɢ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴛɪssᴜᴇs.