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Not What It Seems Ch. 01

By: Ascii



This is my first attempt at writing and I really would appreciate constructive feedback. The idea of the story has been in my head for a while and this took me quite a while to write. I'm not the best at spotting grammatical errors, so I apologize in advance for that. Please do point them out though as I would like to improve. There's a build up to the story and no immediate sex. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

February 2010 – Present 

"I love her so much. I can't imagine a day without her... will you marry me Alin"

Given a different situation a girl would love the fact that her boyfriend had just proposed to her on the front page of the NYC Post. However, Alin was both furious and upset. She had told John a million times she didn't like to declare her public life for the world to see, yet he had gone ahead with the one thing she hated.

In a way, she knew it wasn't fair on John. He had declared his love for her openly, yet she had never acknowledged it. His proposal came at a right time and it would save her from ruining her life, but she didn't love him. Never had and never will. 

Alin made a mistake in the past, loving and trusting a man she shouldn't have. She vowed she would never make that mistake again.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared Valentine sat on his balcony in his presidential suite, sipping red wine and chain smoking while reading the front page of the newspaper. It was early morning but his lifestyle had always been a rather unhealthy one. Actually, he changed for one woman at one point in his life. His partying and womanizing ways had changed for her. 

Now at the age of 35, Jared was respected by many as a self-made millionaire. Life for him was never an easy ride and when both his parents died in a car crash, he had lived on a bad estate with his grandmother. It took a lot of hard work and gamble to get to where he was today.

Apart from financial success he was an incredibly attractive man; with his 6ft 2 physique broad shoulders, defined muscles and slightly tanned skin tone. His dark chocolate coloured bedroom eyes framed with thick dark eyelashes, defined cheekbones and slight stubble, the maturity and masculinity driving many women crazy. 

He had only ever loved one woman in his life; she had thrown it back in his face by betraying him in the most unforgivable way. Thanks to her, he had gain even more financial success. 

It was time to cause havoc in good old New York City where he had carefully avoided going for the past years. When Jared Valentine wants to ruin someone completely, ruin is usually an understatement. Revenge is sweet.

With that thought, Jared tossed the newspaper away and called his secretary to book a flight immediately to New York...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Meanwhile in Spain, a Spanish beauty who John Haltor met in a club the previous night was currently under the covers sucking his cock. He was on the verge of coming, but he wasn't thinking of the woman sucking him. John was imagining Alin's luscious lips wrapped around his cock; just the thought made him come. 

The proposal he knew was going to be the talk of the city. Alin would be so happy. A proposal for the whole world to see - damn, any girl would want that level of attention. Due to business arrangements he wouldn't be able to see his soon-to-be-wife until the coming weekend, but John could wait. 

He had waited forever to finally have her, five years and counting, to be exact. Although he hadn't actually proposed to her in person, he knew she would say yes. No she had to say yes. Who wouldn't want to be his woman? He was one of the most eligible bachelors in New York with a trust fund big enough to feed the whole country. John Haltor was just-above average looking man. With his short blonde slightly curly hair, baby blue eye and 6ft physique, he was used to getting any women that caught his attention – except Alin. 

John liked the chase, and Alin proved to be such a thrill and a little bruise to his ego, but eventually after four years of remaining "sort of friend" she had finally chosen to be with him. Unfortunately, after almost a year of dating Alin still remained distant to John. He knew she had trust issues, but she had blamed it on her studies and now her career. Why would you need a career when you were dating me, he thought.

In the beginning, John was understanding, gave her time and space, but by the third month of their sexless relationship John had stopped staying faithful and fucked every woman he had come across. 

He longed for her but she kept pushing him away, if it was another woman John would have told her to fuck off. Alin was different, she was naturally beautiful and although she portrayed herself as strong and independent, she was in fact vulnerable and naive. It differs from the other social-climbing and money grabbing whores. 

John knew Alin still had feelings for that bastard Valentine, so staying faithful to Alin was out of the question. Sex with other women was his form of revenge. However disaster struck when one of the bitches he fucked sold a story on him. John was convinced Alin would definitely leave him, but surprisingly she forgave him and didn't even confront him about it. 

After that incident more women sold their stories to newspapers and magazines. John never denied the fact that he had cheated on her, and she had never asked, so he thought that she must love him too much to lose him. This was his free pass to fuck all he wanted.

He hated the fact that his relationship with Alin always had obstacles. First Valentine, now that bitch Hallie. He knew she constantly tells Alin that she deserves better and all other shit. The thing that fuels his ego is that no matter what he does, Alin still remains faithful to him. In his social circle every man desires to be in his position. He had everything he wanted in a woman: beautiful, intelligent and accepts infidelity, who wouldn't want that?

He knew a lot of other eligible bachelors like himself were after Alin, he has to declare to the whole world that she belongs to him. He felt fucking great with the fact that she is a virgin and he will be the first man to take her. The thought of possessing Alin's mind and soul made him thrust further down the woman's throat. "Oh shit...baby.... oh yeah...I'm coming... bitch swallow that...don't waste a drop." 

After the woman had licked him clean, he pushed her away and strolled towards the bathroom to shower. With the public announcement of their engagement, John knew that Alin can finally be his...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It was the eighth time Hallie rang Alin, she prayed she would pick up.

"Hallie I-"

"Listen to me A, where are you now. I assume you've read the newspaper right?" She continued without waiting for an answer. "I'll come over to your work place okay?"

Alin wanted to thank her lucky stars. Over the past years, Hallie had been such a rock to her. An older sister she never had. Shakily, Alin replied, "Hallie, why is my life a constant mess?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

February 2005

"Hallie it's such a big event I don't think I can handle this. You said it was going to be a small affair...but-" 

"Alin you can't miss my wedding. Look how many times do I have to persuade you? I don't care what you-"

Alin sighed and explained, "I just...you know how much I hate these high profile events. Jack's dad deals business with him which means, he'll be invited to the wedding. I don't want to see him there!" 

Ever since the death of her beloved mother four years ago, Alin had cut almost all ties with her father. The late Anna Serano was a renowned photography and darling of the fashion world. All the major fashion house needed to book appointments months in advance, as demand for Anna was overwhelming. 

She met wealthy businessman Timothy Fanning when she was the photography for his sister's wedding. They fell in love instantly and had a whirlwind romance before marrying three months later. Two years later Anna had given birth to Alin. 

Timothy Fanning was not a settle down man and after playing the devoted husband for the past three years he started to cast Anna aside. Anna loved her husband very much and instead of confronting his affairs, which were plastered on the front page of gossip magazines and newspapers on a regular basis, she had remained quiet, and had hoped he would change one day. That day never came. 

One month before Alin's fifteenth birthday, her father had told Anna that he wanted a divorce, the reason, which Alin knew later, he and a twenty-something aspiring actress was about to have a baby. He had attended a high profile event with the woman, even though Anna was still married to him and they were yet to announce to the public about their divorce. This had caused a huge controversy. To make the situation worse and more humiliating for Anna it was reported on every single newspaper and magazines. The day before Alin's birthday, her mother committed suicide.

To this day, Alin vowed that she would never give herself completely to a man unless they both loved and trusted each other. She promised she would stay a virgin until marriage and would never accept infidelity like her mother.

Last year, on her eighteen birthday, Alin's father had made a huge investment in opening a health food store, Acai, and had begged Alin to be the owner of the store. This was his way of making amends alongside 40% of the profit. Without a lawyer present, she had signed the contract as a sleeping partner, hoping her father would leave her alone due to his insistent. Timothy had made a wise investment and the store proved to be profitable in the first year. To anger her father, Alin donated her 40% to charities. 

"Look your father will be there. Unavoidable. Just ignore him as if you don't know him! I'm not defending him but he has tried his best to make amends. I mean the store he opened...look this is his way of making it up to you- money."

"Hallie throwing money in my face is not making amends. I just don't want to make you upset on your wedding day seeing as I'll be so miserable and-"

"Please ... Alin you are like my sister, and YOU CANNOT and I MEAN CANNOT miss my wedding. End of discussion!"

Defeated Alin replied, "Hmm...I'll attend but let me ask you one thin-"

"What is it? AT this point I would tell you anything, even if you want to know every sordid detail of my sex life in the future!" 

"Ok! Gross I don't want to know THAT!" Alin sighed, and paused for a few seconds. It was hard to ask Hallie, but she had to warn her. 

"Look all jokes aside, I know your wedding is literally next week, but are you sure about marrying Jack? He's not a bad guy, but there's something about him I'm not sure about...I just want you to be 100% comfortable with him before you marry him..."

Alin stopped talking when she realized Hallie's expressionless face. After a significant pause, Hallie's face switched from expressionless, to full on laughter.

"Oh Alin, Alin! This man...I'm going to marry in a week. The man I've been dating for the past year. The man who makes my toe curls when he kisses me. The man, who is going to take my virginity and give me the best orgasm on my wedding night and-"

"Okay okay Hallie I get you! TMI TMI! Fine I'm just concerned about you. We're both nearly 19, and in college. I just don't want you to regret it."

"I know your concern. I love him and he feels the same. Jack is amazing. He might be eight years older than me...but he would never mistreat me. Trust me A, he's definitely the one I want to spend the rest of my life with."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

One week later...

"You may now kiss the bride" 

After the church ceremony, the wedding celebration continued at a beautiful mansion, where champagnes were flowing and the rich and famous carried on talking about themselves.

Alin attended the wedding with her other best friend Michelle, but she found herself alone when Michelle went off with the best man.

"Hallie you look fabulous I know I said that a million times...but you look...I'm just...so emotional....can't believe you're married!

"Honey, stop it! Stop crying. Your make up is going to run! Gosh I bet Michelle has left you...again!" 

Both Alin and Hallie burst out laughing, knowing full well that Michelle has gone and tried to bag herself an eligible bachelor. Hallie suddenly stopped laughing and said, "I know you're not having a good time, truth be told I wanted it small and intimate rather than this...but Jack likes it. I guess to make a relationship work it's all about compromise eh? Hmm anyway, Earlier when we were taking photos, I happen to see a VERY hot guy checking you out!

Alin burst out laughing. It was always a habit between the two friends; Hallie would spot out eligible guys for her, while she would constantly dismiss them, thinking every man was exactly like her father.

When Alin didn't respond, Hallie continued saying, "Well I know why miss studious is not interested in other guys, she's in love with that stupid John Haltor! Gosh, give it a break girl, he's such a jerk! Look if you want him, he's over there. That man would not stop staring at you! Gesturing towards him Hallie hissed, "see?!"

John Haltor was the grandson of the HALTOR Corporation Empire. He never had to work a single day of hard work in his life. His grandfather owned multiple international firms, one being the InteriorD LTD, where Alin worked as an internship outside of her studies. 

Alin was shocked; since Hallie was not keeping her voice down she said quietly, "I do not like him! He's technically my boss! I have a lot of respect for him, so stop making assumptions!"

"Hmmm...whatever you say honey...but check out Mr hot guy over there he keeps looking at you, hmm and he's talking to Jack, so I assume they know each other, but he does look familiar though...gosh if I wasn't a taken woman..." Nodding to where 'Mr hot guy' was standing, Alin turned to see a very handsome man and they were immediately locked into eye contact, while he continued to share a conversation with Jack. 

Instead of feeling embarrassed about being caught staring the man continued to look and even smiled at her. Alin turned, feeling her cheeks heat up. The conversation between the two men finally ended and Jack was strolling towards his new wife.

"Hey Alin mind if I steal my wife for a bit. I need to introduce her to my father's business partners."

"Jack, who was that guy you were talking to?"

"Him? That's Jared Valentine over there... have you not heard of him, he was the founder of BankSafe.com, and that prick who graces the page of every business. He's one of dad's business associate. That guy has made a name for himself and he's only thirty." 

Jack continued talking to himself rather than Hallie and Alin about Jared Valentine in both admiration and jealousy, "I mean the guy doesn't even seek attention, there's hardly any picture of him in the magazine, and yet women still find him. That guy is the definition of an arrogant bastard!"

Hallie had never seen Jack react like this before. He seemed like a different person. Shaking the thought out of her head, she turned to Alin and lowered her voice, "Sorry Alin I'll be back in a bit." With a wink, Hallie left with Jack, leaving Alin on her own.

There were so many celebrities at the wedding, which weren't exactly a surprise seeing as Jack's father owned a law firm, representing many A-Listers, and Hallie's parents were both in the filming industry. 

Many young, rich and famous bachelors' had approached Alin and tried their idea of seduction on her, however she wasn't interested. If it wasn't for Hallie she would avoid these kinds of events like the plague. Everyone in the room was in a different world than she was. Growing up she was used to living a modest lifestyle due to her mother's influence, which her father hated. 

Being in this mansion reminded her of her father's pretentious attitude towards life and the way he treated people who weren't as well off as him- like shit. After her mother's death she decided to never rely on her father's money again, instead lived a modest allowance given from her mother's inheritance. Alin let out a sigh and walked into the balcony. It was a cold evening but it was what she needed to get away from the overpowering smell of perfume, alcohol and cigarettes. At least it saves her form bumping into her father and John. 

John had earlier in the week asked if she was doing anything next weekend and Alin had replied that she was busy with college work, not wanting to go with him and confuse their relationship. She knew he had wanted so badly to talk to her this evening but luckily he had been occupied all evening. She never saw him as more than a brother, but in the work place he had treated her so obviously different from the other interns. Already rumors were starting about her 'servicing the boss' and 'doing over time.' Avoiding him was necessary.

It was a cold evening, so after staying outside for twenty minutes, Alin decided to go back inside. Suddenly she felt someone wrap a jacket around her shoulders. Alin turned, and those seductive chocolate brown eyes staring back down at her was dark and sexy...and oh-so-familiar. Jared Valentine. 

She looked simply stunning: her natural beauty aside, she was wearing a full length red gown with a plunging neckline, which displayed her pert and perfect sized breasts. She was slim but had curves in all the right places; her medium length hair was loosely curled while her full seductive pink lips were begging to be kissed. Alin's big brown eyes were looking up at him in surprise and confusion. He was baffled as to how she genuinely didn't know how much she affected every male in the room. 

Jared knew that she was a generous and kind person; she was an active volunteer at many children hospices and charities. Most socialites would donate money to get in newspapers and show how charitable they are, but this girl, Jared thought would devote her energy and time for people who needed help- he had witnessed it himself.

Alin felt really uncomfortable under Jared's intense gaze, "um... I was actually about to go back inside" indicating the jacket, she continued, "I don't need this, but thank you-"

Never in his life had a woman not flirt with him when he had made the first move, this had surely knocked him back a little. This was going to be interesting.

"You don't want to go back inside." Jared said bluntly, "I've noticed apart from talking to Jack's wife, you don't associate yourself with anyone else here. I'm only here because of Jack and a few business arrangements; you're only here because of his wife. We both hate this place and most of the people here. Why don't you stay here a lil' longer so we don't have to face the people we don't want to?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

As the evening progressed, Alin felt more comfortable in Jared's company. She was glad she stayed; he was charming, humorous and handsome. Alin knew he was the type to have women falling at his feet. She had vaguely heard of his name and assumed that he was one of those men, but she felt guilty that she had judged and categorized him as her 'father's heartless type'. 

Alin was even more surprised that he was down-to-earth and talking to a girl like her, instead of some beautiful supermodel. It was getting late, and she had a presentation to prepare for the next day for her assignment.

"Um – Mr- Um... Valentine, it's getting late, I'm afraid after congratulating Jack and Hallie I'll need to go. It was nice meeting you-"

Jared burst into fits of laughter, "after spending a whole evening with me, you still call me Mr. Valentine? Call me Jared. Mr. Valentine makes me feel so old. Do you want me to take you home?"

Alin was a little disappointed to go. In the beginning as much as she said she didn't like the man she felt that maybe he was different from how the media portrayed him. The charities and hospice that Alin volunteers for, many projects that needed financing were financed by Jared, which he reluctantly acknowledged. The look in his face when she found out it was him sincerely showed that he wished to stay anonymous. It was perhaps fate bringing her to finally meet the person she always wanted to thank.


Not What It Seems Ch. 01



"It's ok, Jack arranged his chauffeur to take me back. Thanks for keeping me company. I have to go-"

Jared thought, it was either now or never.

She was just about to turn to walk back in, when Jared grabbed her wrist, pulled her towards him and kissed her on the lips. Alin was confused and startled. She had never been kissed before, and the feelings he was provoking in her was making her confused, startled and an unfamiliar tension knotted in her lower belly. It felt good though and she responded to the kiss.

Jared felt her slowly melting in his embrace and deepened the kiss. He slowly probed her lips open and entwined his tongue with hers. The kiss they shared was erotic, yet with a hint of indescribable innocence. 

Alin was so shocked with her own response and behavior. She had never been this close to a man before. She reluctantly broke off the kiss by gently pushing him.

He had always been the one to make the move and end the move, so when Alin broke off the kiss, it caught him completely off guard. He was mesmerized by the girl. She always surprised him. He brushed the loose curls away from her face and stated, "I want to see you again."

It was not a request but a statement it was Alin's turn to be caught completely off guard. He said it with such arrogance that it made Alin feel as if no woman would ever dare say no to him because he is so irresistible.

"I'm not free." 

"Make it free"

"How dare you talk to me like that! No you arrogant-" Alin was just about to curse his attitude when he pulled her to him and kissed her. It was the second time she had been kissed. This time it was slow, sensual and seductive. Her resistance slowly softening, "Jared...I'm free this Saturday..."

Alin regretted the instant those words left her lips. It made her look desperate and one of those girls that were falling at his feet. How could this man she barely knew manipulate her so easily? 

Jared was hard the instant he heard her moan and say his name. She was so damn responsive and cute when she blushed at the fact that she had agreed to go on a date with him. He was glad she broke away from his embrace, otherwise she would feel his straining erection. 

He bent down and whispered in her ear, "I'll see you Saturday then..." Before she left they shared a final kiss. Less intense and erotic, but never-the-less, it still left a lasting impression and desire in both of their minds...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It had been five months since the wedding and the day Alin met Jared. He had been pretty insistent, so after a month of wining and dining, Alin had given in. Well as a matter of fact, as she was getting ready for a date with Jared, she thought that she hadn't given in to his insistent; she was genuinely very fond of him. 

Alin sighed as she thought of Jared. Her life was perfect: her best friend was married and was three months pregnant, her studies are going great and most importantly she had the perfect boyfriend. What more could she want? 

It was funny how she and Jared could work so well. In the past he had a different woman on his arm every other day. At times, she felt self-conscious as the women he dated in the past were all beautiful and more or less the same age as Jared. Secretly, Alin was worried that the eleven year age gap would be too much for him and eventually he would tire of her. She had told her about her wish to stay a virgin, but he had said he respected her. This made Alin more at ease.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared hadn't seen Alin for three week now and he was practically about to go insane. 

'The former playboy now living like a saint...heartbroken girls around the country learn of "the one" 

Jared read the magazine and smiled to himself. Yes this girl had changed him. He normally never ever gets involved with young inexperienced girls, as they are the ones hard to get rid of and had no class or taste. Alin was different.

His past consisted of dating bimbos and models that were only good at sex and bored him to death outside of the bedroom. His previous girlfriend before Alin was Faye Morlan a bikini model, as she liked to call herself. She was neither his girlfriend nor a bikini model, more precisely a stripper that happened to make it big on men's magazines. 

Faye had tried every trick in her books to snare him, however even before they had sex he had told her he was not interested in a relationship.

Faye had other ideas. He was her life-time meal ticket. Their relationship was on-off for six months, she didn't mind though, he still treated her well, money, diamond necklaces and champagne, that was the life Faye had wanted to live.

When Jared had told Faye the relationship was over she had begged at first and then eventually threatened him with bullshit. Before she left, she had stated, "You will regret treating me like this." In response Jared had shrugged his shoulders and left her fuming. 

Faye Morlan was not a woman to be fucked with. She didn't spend time exclusively with him just so she could get a few diamonds. She wanted more. 

That was the problems when you date girls like Faye. 

Jared had always found it easy to get women, however, none of them made him laugh like Alin did. None of them interested him like she did neither hold an intelligible conversation. The women he dated in the past were just purely about sex, whereas in Alin he found love.

He couldn't believe he was capable of love but with her everything in his life seemed more positive. Jared was known for his ruthlessness and callous way when dealing with everything in his life, but with Alin he had learned to be gentle and caring. 

Even though they hadn't seen each other, Jared had kept his promise by sticking to his quest to quit smoking. The eleven year age gap between them had never mattered to him, but he was afraid that Alin would want to date guys more her age. Above all, the most worrying was John Haltor. They had been life-long nemesis ever since they were in high school where both had been the best at everything. 

Haltor had a big advantage as his family were really influential and wealthy where Jared had come from a working-class background, but had gained a scholarship to study at the exclusive West Tiffin's School. Jared had become wealthy in his own right and now had the woman he knew Haltor wanted. After tonight Jared knew Haltor would never have what was his. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Walking into the restaurant dressed in a white blouse and denim shorts, Alin looked around and spotted Jared. She saw him in a suit. She groaned. She looked so casual for a high class restaurant. In the back of her mind, a little voice would tell her that she was not good enough for him. If it was one of his old girlfriends they would have worn something sophisticated. Before she could think any further, Jared appeared behind her and wrapped his arm around her waist and kissed her cheek, "baby you missed me? Come and sit down. I haven't seen you for weeks"

When Jared saw Alin in her denim shorts and white blouse he couldn't help his response. Her toned legs and her pert breasts trying to break free from her white blouse he wanted to take her back to his apartment and make love to her. Jared hadn't had sex for five months and it was killing him. He had however noticed her uncertain expression, like she was about to run away from him. Maybe it was the three weeks apart, Jared reassured himself. 

Alin was never a fan of pretentious and expensive restaurants and hardly ever eaten at these places, so Jared had to order for her and explain each item to her, while the disgusted waiter waited. Jared was patient with her, but the way the waiter acted made her feel as if she was a second class citizen. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Alin are you ok? You seem really upset. Is it because of the waiter? If it is I'll make sure to inform the manager about his behavior."

"No, I'm fine" Alin lied. Staring out of the car window, Alin thought she couldn't understand what Jared liked about her. 

Jared knew she was upset but didn't press on to avoid ruining what he had in store for her. He pulled the car over when they reached a beach after driving for an hour, refusing to tell her what he was up to.

"Hey where are we?" Alin asked as Jared open the door for her. The sunset was a romantic touch to the beautiful scenery overlooking the sea. The soothing tone of waves crashing against the rocks put a nervous Jared at ease.

"This place means a lot to me. My father found it. People were misguided as first glance it seems like a deserted place and with the vast amount of trees hiding its beauty, no one knows the treasure. I come here when I need to clear my mind. My first investment was decided here. When I need to clear my mind I come here. When I'm happy I come here. When I need to make my biggest decisions I come here." Jared paused and really didn't know how to proceed. He had never been so nervous in his life, "most importantly though, my father proposed to my mother here. I know if they were still alive they would still have been married I-"

"Jared I-"

"Alin will you marry me?"

The next moment went really quickly Jared was on one knee and he had produced a simple yet stunning wedding band. It had a modest diamond in the middle, which was beautiful without being an overstatement. Alin was still in a state of shock, "Jared-"

He got up and held her hands in his "This ring was passed on from generation to generation in my family and my mom had always said that when I meet the woman I truly love this ring shall belong to her. Alin...marry me, I love you and I want to be with you." 

Jared could sense her hesitation. Why was she so afraid? Alin kiss him lightly on the lips. 

Tears of happiness were sliding down Alin's face before she finally whispered, "Jared I... I love you too...YES YES YES!"

Jared slipped the ring on her finger and then kissed her gently on the lips again, under the horizon. At that moment both thought nothing will ever come between them.



Not What It Seems Ch. 02



*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

February 2010

Going to work was not what Alin wanted to do, however leaving Ryan on his own was unfair if not a little unprofessional, even though their relationship was more than boss and employee. There was a knock on her door, which reminded her she needed to be more composed. 

"Come in." 

"Morning A. You alright?" Ryan placed a cup of coffee on her desk noting her distress. 

"Yeah I'm good, thought I'll come into the office early. I've just been designing what the client wants, but I'm not sure if it's viable. He wants the building to be iconic, so I've been thinking over the weekend and came up with-"

A woman who had just received a proposal should not be talking about anything but marriage let alone work, "Alin you sure you wanna talk about work? Shouldn't you be telling me how happy you are? You are going to get married soon right?"

Alin dropped the pencil she was holding and sighed, "Ryan I am happy. I'm just not sure if marriage is my thing. I'm afraid. I just- I'm starting to feel like John's not the one. I mean I ask myself why I feel like that. He's perfect for me. ...but I don't want to make any more mistakes." 

Ryan was bias. "Look Alin you can't say he's perfect if you have doubts. If you're not happy then don't marry him. Simple. He might seem perfect, but I don't like him." Ryan stated.

Alin was about to ask him to continue, when Hallie burst into the door.

"Hey, Hallie nice to see you" Ryan smiled when he saw Hallie. He cared about both of them, Alin in a sister-brother way and Hallie...well he cared about her but he reminded himself there was nothing more to it.

"Hey! It's really nice to see you too! The kids asked me when they get to see their cool friend Ryan." She laughed and Ryan's heart melted inside. If only she wasn't happily married, he thought and instantly regretted it. He cared about her too much to hurt or ruin her happiness.

A lot had been troubling Ryan lately. He was worried both Alin and Hallie would never talk to him again if they find out the one thing he failed to mention to both of them...well I'll think about that when it comes, he thought.

"Oh Ryan I know you guys are busy and I won't be long, but mind if I talk to Alin for a bit?"

"No problem." 

As Ryan left the room, Hallie turned her attention back to Alin. "Okay so tell me, what you gonna do?"

Silence.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of avoiding eye contact, Alin finally looked at Hallie and murmured softly, "I don't know."

Hallie sighed. "Alin I know you. 'I don't know means' NO. Don't make this hard for yourself. Just say no to his immature proposal and move on." She hesitated before continuing, "I know you still have feelings for Jared."

"Please don't. Hallie please don't mention him. Jared slept with other women behind my back. Do you really think I can forgive him? My mom did that and I refuse to lead a miserable life like her. You know I think I'm just nervous. I can learn to love John and-"

"Bullshit! Alin, why are you so keen on marrying John? I really don't understand you! You never even let Jared explain his side of the story! Besides, John is just as bad! Why are you forgiving him then? You always say you will marry until you find someone you love and trust, why have you changed? The Alin I knew five years ago was strong and determined. Why are you being like this A? It just seems you're a string puppet being pulled however John wants. I don't want to see you like this."

Alin knew Hallie was right. Her morals, principles and determination should have avoided her going down this path, but there was no option for her. Sometimes reality made you turn your back on what you believe in. She was going to break it up with John a while back had her life not been turned upside down by her so-called father. Speaking of which, the men hadn't come threatening her for repayment. What was going on? Never-the-less she couldn't tell anyone about the situation she was in. Not even Hallie. 

"Hallie please. Just forget it. You know he treats me like I'm his world. Be happy for me?"

It was funny how five years ago Alin asked if she was sure about marrying Jack and now Hallie is asking her the same thing. She didn't want Alin to regret her decisions like her. However she knew how stubborn Alin can be and that would just put a strain on their friendship. Sighing, Hallie smiled, "I'll try."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"John?! What are you doing here?" Alin exclaimed as she opened her front door.

He followed her in and then suddenly pulled her and hugged her tightly. "I wanted to surprise you. I know I told you I won't make it back for the charity auction ball tomorrow but I really missed you so I just cut the meeting short." He tilted his head and whispered in her ear, "and I've got something for you" 

Alin looked puzzled as he searched in his pocket and pulled out a little box. Her lips formed an O shape. He went down on one knee, opened the box, and said softly, "Alin you know I've wanted you since the first day I saw you. I love you. I know you liked the proposal on the front page. I am serious and I know asking you in person will show how much I love you. Alin marry me and make me the happiest man alive!"

First of all, she hated his proposal on the front page of the newspaper and second she couldn't say no now, "Yes, of course I'll marry you." 

John was too happy to notice the lack of enthusiasm in her tone, he was so overjoyed he picked her up and kissed her hard. He started to unbutton her blouse. He had to have her now. She can't say no to him since they were going to marry soon anyway. 

"John! No please don't!" She heard him groan in frustration. 

"Alin, we are getting married anyway."

"John, I want our wedding night to be special. Please just- just not now." 

He looked at her in both anger and desire, before he finally composed himself and told himself that all he had to wait was three more weeks before he can finally fuck her senseless. "Alin I'm sorry. I just got carried away. I love you and I just wanted to show you how much I want you. I've already set a date which is the 24th of this month and I will -"

"John but that's in three weeks time! We can't get married so soon... I mean how can we plan a wedding in three weeks?!" 

John was starting to get impatient. He wanted to fuck her, but she wanted to wait till their wedding, so the only answer is to marry as soon 

as possible. "Baby don't worry with the planning I've got a whole team of people who can sort that out for us. You know mom, dad and grandpa are eager for us to get married too. You don't want to disappoint them do you?" She couldn't protest the inevitable. The only option was to marry John if not she will probably be ruined by her father's mistakes.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Timothy Fanning knew he ran into trouble 5 years ago. He had just lost out a major contract for one of his firms, however he had heard that the health supplements were big business and health trends were going to be the next big thing. The decision to dabble in a new venture was never an easy thing, so he decided to add his daughter into the equation. 

He knew her mother had left her a healthy amount of inheritance, so if the business were to fail she would pay the price and if the business was successful, well he'll give her as little as possible. The plan was to make sure that should the business get into any debt Alin will be liable to pay for the debt, but if the health store proves to be a success she would get a small cut from it. 

The 40% was just a sweet deal that he had made up, he never intended to give her that much. Alin was merely a fall back plan and a so-called owner of Acai. It was great that she was stupid enough to trust her own father, he laughed at the thought, ignoring the irony of it. 

He had made sure she signed every contract that could potentially fuck her up- no lawyer on her part was hired. He hated the smug look she had when he came to beg her to take her 'present.' How stupid was she to think he would ever care about her?

Well he wasn't that heartless, of course he didn't want to fuck up his daughter's life, but the reality was it's better for her to take the blame than him. 

Call it luck or a good judgement, but the business was a success, penetrating a niche market where customers pay a premium price for such low cost crap. Business was good. Timothy was annoyed that he had to give some profit to his brainless daughter who donated all the money to charity. Stupid like her mother he thought.

Acai was so successful since it opened that Timothy was able to cover his debts with the profit generated. He started to expand Acai and had borrowed $5million dollars from an underground company who charges high interest for the investment. 

Timothy always had a good relationship with the company, although interests were high, the repayment term were a little lenient. The good thing about borrowing from illegitimate debt companies is they are willing to give you money with little questions and they give it to you without the wait. He had put his daughter as the liable person should any there be any outstanding debt. Timothy was surprised when the company had never asked further questions as to how she could pay; still the most important thing was the 

responsibility was hers should disaster strike. 

Unfortunately, all his companies were badly hit in the financial crisis in 2008. He had tried to cover debt with debt, but interests were high and he was starting to fall behind on his payment and debt collectors were coming to his house every other day. He just couldn't take it anymore.

Alin would now pay the price. She had wanted to split up with John when she found out that he had cheated, but he told her not to. When she had questioned him further on, Timothy told her where she stood. He had shown his true colors and told her about all the contracts she signed. She had screamed how much she hated him but he didn't care. 

In the end someone had to pay the price and he would rather burn in hell than pay shit.

She couldn't inherit the full amount of her mother's money until she turns 25 next year, so in the meantime he had managed to persuade her to marry John, so that he could settle the debt. He was still in deep shit with his failing businesses but at least the $5million dollars wouldn't be his problem. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

NYC Daily Post: 'Let the gossips begin tonight... the prestigious charity auction ball. Are you on the guest list?'

Every year, the charity auction ball attracted more gossips and attention than donations. Socialites, business people and celebrities would beg to be on the guest list. It was an event where rich people competed to see who could donate the most money. It was also an event of fine wining and dining where rare items were put on auction.

Alin hated the event with passion. It was ironic that it was named charity ball, when there was in actuality nothing charitable about it. Unfortunately, her attendance was expected as these high profile events offered publicity much needed for the hospice and charities she actively promoted. Alin sighed as she put the finishing touches when John rang to tell her he was already downstairs waiting for her.

John rushed out to open the car door for Alin and saw her elegant and sexy black dress. It was sleeveless and had a see-through panel on the top. It showed tantalizing glimpse of the top of half of her breasts. Her hair curled and tied up in a sophisticated bun, "You look amazing. I finally get to show the world my sexy fiancee." He said as he kissed her gently on the lips. 

Alin remembered Ryan's confrontation regarding her relationship with John. As John was kissing her, her mind drifted to trivial matters. 'Damn why can't I enjoy it?' She thought. 'You are enjoying it, you are enjoying it. You love John.' Alin chanted the thoughts in her head until the kiss ended. She felt nothing. Damn Ryan! 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared looked out of the window and smiled. It was good to be back in New York. He carefully avoided any attention in the past years. Many acquaintances would be shocked to see him, as he had led a very reclusive life ever since his public split from Alin. He had so many things to do. He hadn't seen one of his old friends for almost three years. Most importantly he came back for vengeance. Tonight he would tell her what he wanted. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The ball was in full swing and Alin felt lonely. She was constantly being dragged around by John. He would drag her to where the photographers were and would pose for pictures. The act made her sick. It was like he was confirming she belonged to him. Alin was trying hard to spot Hallie, when John's mother came to greet her. At least she had some breathing space.

"Alin come here darling, we are family now so no more of those silly formalities okay dear?" Alin smiled at the words from John's mother. 

His family treated her like their own daughter.

"Thank you Mrs Hal- um, Catherine. Sorry I need time to get used to it, well I mean the proposal came as a shock and-"

"But dear are you not sure?" Catherine could sense Alin's hesitation. She really liked the girl, it was a far cry from her son's previous partners: brainless with big plastic breasts. 

"No I didn't mean it like that. Of course I'm happy! Catherine, I see Hallie I'm just going to go and say hello."

Alin took the chance to leave John's embrace to his disapproval. He had wanted everyone to know they were engaged to be married. Still he didn't want to be seen as too possessive, "Alin come back when the auction begins okay honey?" John pulled her in for a kiss, as photographers took more pictures. He was getting on her nerves.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

There were surprise glances his way, as he exited his car; many took their time to register who he was. The media and photography were obviously aware of Jared's presence, thanks to the event organiser's 'accidental' slip of the guest list. Anyone could put two and two together. Why would a person like him suddenly attend a high profile event? This was going to be great news tomorrow.

"Mr Valentine what brings you here? Is it because of the engagement between Alin and John?" a gossip columnist asked. 

These questions were thrown at him as he entered the building. Silence on his end. 

As he entered the building photographers rushed to take his picture, yet again thanks to the heads up from the organisers. Jared looked around and saw Alin and John; he felt anger boil inside him when he saw that son-of-a-bitch kiss her. Fuck! He wanted to beat the shit out of him. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin strolled towards a bored looking Hallie and noticed Jack next to her, in a heated discussion about gold prices with another man. 

"Hallie!"

"Hey,A! When did you come? I'm a lil bored. Let's go outside," lowering her voice she said, "I'm sick of listening to gold prices."

Both laughed, and then a small crowd near the entrance caught their attention.

"Wonder who that could be. I'll go over if you tell me it's Justin Timberlake" Hallie chuckled; she looked closely at the crowd and nearly choked on her drink.

"Alin- its - its Jared!" 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Why after five years did he decide to come back now? He smiled for the camera with a model draped on his arm. She felt a wave of nausea hit her. "Hallie I think I need to go outside...I just...I don't want to be here-"

"Are you crazy? Can you not see the amount of paparazzi outside? If you step out right now, what do you think everyone will think and write? Stay calm and just don't let anyone see how affected you are" Hallie hissed.

Alin was still staring when Jared looked in her direction and they were locked in a brief eye contact, his lips curled into a smile, but it wasn't a particular friendly one...it seemed rather sinister. She broke the contact and saw Ryan approaching her. 

Ryan could not keep his eyes off Hallie she looked so beautiful. Like an angel. 'Stop she's married,' he whispered to himself.

"You okay A? You look like you seen a ghost" 

Hallie murmured, "Well worst than a ghost...remember Alin's ex-fiance, Jared?"

Ryan shrugged, "Yeah, 'f course, why?"

"Well he's over there and it makes me wonder why after five years he decided to come back now?"

Ryan groaned. Seriously he wanted time to tell Hallie and Alin but now there will be no way in hell he can get himself out of this mess!

"Ryan I haven't seen you a very long time. How are you?" 

He was so deep in thought he didn't realize Jared had already walked away from the crowd. The paparazzi continued to take pictures from a distance.

"Um... yeah Jared it's been a while. Yeah I'm cool why didn't you tell me you were back?" Ryan could see Hallie and Alin's gaze in his peripheral vision. This was not looking good. 

"You know I wasn't planning on coming back but I had a lot of unfinished business that I want to attend to and," Jared let his gaze linger on Alin knowing she damn well felt it before continuing, "why the surprise? Is this a way to greet an old friend Ryan?"

Ryan groaned inside. Fuck he knew Jared was doing it on purpose now. He wanted to drag him to the corner and beat the shit out of him. What would Alin think of him now? What would Hallie Think?

"No" Ryan smiled. Two can play this game. "Well Jared have you met my friend Alin and Hallie? He indicated to the two surprised woman on his left.

Before Jared could answer the auction was beginning and everyone went to take their seats on the rounded table. John had noticed Jared and was surprised with his attendance. He was more shocked that he was near Alin. John had never felt insecure but he was worried that she still had feelings for him. He went across to where she was and snaked his arm around her lower back and pulled her in possessively. He wasn't sure but he swore he saw a flash of annoyance from her. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Why would Ryan lie to us? If he knows Jared why would he keep it from us?" Alin was upset with the fact that Ryan could lie to her. He was like her brother and yet all this time he hadn't told her the truth. Just what is going on?

Hallie was furious more than upset. "I know and to think we trusted him...god why would Jared suddenly come back? He's not that sort of person to go to a place if there's no reason to."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"What the fuck are you up to Jared? You came back and you didn't tell me? Why the hell would you pull that act when you know I haven't told them I know you? Ryan whispered but Jared didn't miss the pissed off tone. "You know Ryan, I thought I trusted you but behind my back you were fucking with what's mine. How do you think I should react?"

Now Ryan was pissed off. "Jared I've done nothing but help you these past years and now you say I have feelings for Alin? You know your fucking out of your mind. The thing is you have the nerve to say all this shit when you were the one saying you hated Alin. If you don't care about her, why would you care if I was with her or not?"

Jared hated when Ryan always managed to hit the nail on the head. That's what you get when you've been friends with someone for as long as they have. Jared hated his possessive streak but he couldn't help it when he saw her sweet smile for him. How was he to know?

"Ryan, fuck man I'm sorry. Can we not let a girl come between our friendship, especially not a bitch like her. Lets enjoy this evening and later we can catch up like old times."

"Man I hope one day you can tell me why you hate her." Ryan murmured 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 



Not What It Seems Ch. 03



I really want to thank readers who have left me a comment. It means a lot to me, knowing that some readers are enjoying the story. To be honest, after the response of the first chapter, I didn't know if I should carry on... Never-the-less please continue to comment, vote or just enjoy the story :)

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared had made his initial modest fortune on the stock market in his early twenties. He had then ventured in the dot com business, setting up BankSafe.com in 1999 The Company was an e-commerce business that became a hugely profitable company by its third year. His life, his business was going well, until someone betrayed him. He had to compensate millions of dollars, nearly destroying him. However, he had bounced back and he was determined to do whatever he can to ruin her life...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The auction had already started but nothing had been particular impressive. 

Alin was conscious of Jared's intense gaze burning into her back. She wanted so badly to turn and look at his mesmerising eyes but she couldn't. He was her past. 

"Honey are you bored? Hmm..." John was nipping on her ear lobe, the act was a blatant display of public affection. 

John was irritated with Alin's lack of enthusiasm but he was now raging with the fact Jared Valentine was so openly staring at his fiancée as if he wasn't there. He purposely put on an act to piss Valentine off further. He knew it got to him when he saw Jared's expression change. He flashed a smile that said 'she's mine' before continuing to whisper in her ear.

"Our next item is a diamond necklace. I can hear from the gasps that the ladies are going to enjoy this one. This necklace is not your usual Cartier necklace. It was donated by the generous late Mrs Maria Smith. Her marriage to her husband lasted fifty years until he tragically passed away. Some of you might think I'm trying to say that this diamond necklace is a curse trying to purposely bind two people together, but Mrs Smith had said in her will that this necklace represents true love, fate and companionship and by donating this necklace these wonderful things can be passed on and people can cherish what love brings. So ladies...well and gentlemen the opening bid for this necklace is $50,000, do I hear any bidders?"

The necklace had two rings locked together both encrusted with diamonds. It was a simple yet elegant and beautiful design. Alin was not a big fan of jewelery as it always got in the way of practical work, but this necklace caught her eye. It was a similar one to....what Jared got her. The necklace he got her was something she had love, however upon their bitter separation she had given it back to him. 

John had noticed the glint in Alin's eyes when she saw the necklace. He loved the fact that if it were other women they would do all the tricks they can to make him get it. Not his Alin though she didn't have to ask for anything but he knew men would give her anything she desires. God if he got her that maybe she would finally 'reward' him?

Jared saw the necklace and it immediately reminded him of the one he had given Alin. When they split up she had pulled the necklace off her neck and threw it right back in his face. He had been so angry he threw the necklace against the wall seeing it shatter into a thousand pieces.

The bid quickly proceeded to $100,000.

"$110,000" John casually raised his number card enjoying the feeling that he was center of attention again. 

Gasping Alin turned to John and mumbled in his ear, "John, what are you doing?"

"Baby I know you want this necklace...so I'm doing this for you!" he whispered, while tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. The gesture was so sweet accompanied by his words, Alin felt guilty for thinking about Jared.

"Wow thanks John...please ladies and gentlemen that is Mr John Haltor and soon-to-be Mrs John Haltor." Alin blushed not enjoying the attention while the auctioneer continued, "Okay do I hear a bid for $115,000"

Not to be outdone by the young Haltor, other wealthy men started bidding for the necklace for the young women draping in their arms.

The bid had been heatedly pushed to $250,000 and it was now between John and another older rich man, who was desperate to impress the hot young woman in his arms. John wanted so badly to win this necklace he was not about to give up, 

"$300,000"

"John please stop this-"

"Baby I want the best for you."

Alin hated the irony of the situation. John so desperately wanted her to have the necklace and yet the meaning behind the necklace...she sighed and wanted to leave this whole extravagant charade.

"Wow! Mrs John Haltor tell me what have you done to this man? Do I hear a bid for $305,000?"

The other man had given up. No fucking way was he paying $300,000 plus for a second hand piece of crap. He had wanted to impress the young thing so he can get between her legs but nothing Tiffany can't do- at a cheaper price.

John was sure he was going to win after outbidding the older man.

"$300,000 going once, twice and-" 

"$500,000" everyone in the room turned to see who the bidder was. Jared Valentine. Jared fucking Valentine. He knew he was fucking with him because he was now staring at his fiancee. What was his problem? 

"WOAH! Okay so do I hear $505,000? John?"

John couldn't lose this fucking bet. He can't lose face.

"$600,000." 

Catherine Haltor knew her son was trying to prove a point, but she knew that Jared Valentine and Alin had history so she also desperately wanted her son to win the bid. She just didn't enjoy the news tomorrow. Already she can picture the headlines, "old and new lovers at war" or something tasteless like that. Lately her son had been in the news A LOT for his infidelity so he couldn't afford to have any more negative press. 

Tension was building around the room as people around the room await a higher bid from someone, well hopefully Jared to make this evening even more interesting. 

"I'm still in shock but do I hear $605,000 Jared?" 

*Silence*

"Going once going twice and so-"

"$1milllion" Jared stated nonchalantly.

"Jared the woman in your arms must make quite an impression" the auctioneer said. "Do I hear any higher bidders?"

John wanted so badly to wipe the arrogant expression on Jared's face. "John, please just leave it." It really upset Alin that Jared had purposefully bid for the necklace. She knew he wanted to buy it for the model in his arms to spite her.

"$1 million going once, going twice and ...finally sold to Mr Jared Valentine! Congratulations!"

Everyone was applauding but Jared didn't particular feel like he had won. Haltor had mouthed to him, so what? I'm the one who's fucking her!" Jared was angry but he told himself that soon he would wipe that smug look off his face.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After the auction had ended, champagne and conversation were flowing even more. John had asked Alin to dance and she felt oblige to do so, seeing as he was giving her that annoying puppy-dog expression.

The woman Hallie was talking to had gone to get them both drinks and Ryan saw this chance to go over to talk, to see how much damage he's done. 

"Ryan what do you want? Hallie stated sarcastically

"I want to apologize."

"Apology not accepted now leave me alone."

One thing Ryan liked about Hallie was her sense of dry humor and loyalty to her friends, "Hallie let me explain-"

"No Ryan what else is there to explain? I don't know what Jared's ulterior motive is and I don't know why you had to hide the fact you know him, but one thing I'm sure is, there is no damn way I'm going to let you hurt Alin!" Hallie was angry yet, she wanted to give Ryan a chance. She liked him. The thing is she was married with two children why would he find her even attractive? Wait! Where the hell did that connotation come from? She shook the thought from her head and continued to blatantly ignore him.  

People around them were starting to look at them noticing the tense look on their faces. Not wanting to draw any more attention he murmured, "Hallie dance with me and I'll explain it to you." Before she could say 'no' he had already dragged her on the dance floor. To be honest he didn't have to drag her on the dance floor he could have just sat down in a quieter area and explained it to her but he needed to feel her in his arms even if it were just for a few minutes. 

"You better explain yourself Ryan" 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"I want your big cock in my wet pussy and then I want you to fuck me hard until we both come"

The woman in Jared's arm kept whispering in his ear hoping her words would turn him on. Okay he did get a semi but he was only a man and her pussy coming so close to his cock was not exactly helping the situation. He didn't really want her but it was better than a lonely night. Back when he was younger these women would have been his dreams. But as you get older (and richer) you tend to crave the things you can't have. 

When the dance ended, Alin and John were moving to their seats, when Jared walked over to Alin and announced, "Please would you give me the pleasure to dance with you?"

Of all the things she thought he would say this was one thing she didn't expect. His companion had looked pretty shocked too and went back to her seat in a tantrum. Jared had announced his request loudly so she couldn't exactly turn him down as people would think that there was still a grudge between them, and yet she can't accept as people might think there was still something going on. She knew of Jared's intention! He wanted to embarrass her, and anger John!

John was furious. He was hissing but he managed to just contain his rising temper. "Jared what the fuck do you want? She's mine. Can you not fucking see she loves me? Why else would she have left you a week before-"

It was Alin's turn to cut in before the situation escalated, "John let him play his games. One dance and that's it." She whispered but her statement was hinted with venom. 

The game is just beginning he thought as he took her hand and led her to onto the floor. Open mouthed guests were glancing their way. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"So your saying Jared knew you were setting up a base here and wanted you to hire Alin when she graduated from college because he wanted you to look out for her?" she noted the nod of his head before a realization hit her, "but when you hired her she was so happy because you liked her portfolio and thought she was talented? Don't tell me you lied to her about that! Do you realize how hurt she'll be?" 

"No! Listen in the beginning I was reluctant. I didn't want an amateur to mess up a brand I have worked so hard to establish but when I saw her portfolio I genuinely wanted to hire her!"

Jared and Ryan had met in middle school and became good friends. Although they came from different social class Ryan had never looked down on Jared. Their friendship continued into high school where both were accepted into the prestigious West Tiffin's School. They parted ways when Ryan decided to go to college in Italy and Jared wanted to get a job so that he could afford an adequate lifestyle for him and his grandma. 

He had wanted to introduce Ryan to Alin before their marriage but Ryan was always busy in Europe so there was never a chance. When they broke up Jared had called Ryan to tell him part of the story and then asked if he could take her up as a junior architect at his firm. He never said anymore and Jared being Jared, Ryan knew not to ask any more questions.

This was like a game of 20 questions for Ryan as Hallie asked more questions, "Why didn't you tell us you and Jared was friends? And if he hated her why would he help her out? I mean shouldn't his role be to sabotage her? Why would he even ask you to hire her and help her out?"

These questions were also on his mind, "First of all, logically if I had said I know him, you and Alin would not even want to know me. And you know I've been thinking the same thing as well. I was setting up here and needed someone who could give me fresh and inspirational ideas. He knew how talented she was so he was sort of helping me out in a way. This is looking at it with no other factors. But if we throw in the fact that they use to be a couple and the fact that Jared supposedly hate her, he's not suppose to help her out, so... I think his feelings for her are battling between love and hate."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"What do you want Jared? Alin tried to pretend this was not affecting her but she was tensed.

Jared bent down and whispered in her ear while his hand trailed down to the small of her back. He was putting on an act like John had early. He smiled knowing that John was trying hard to contain his anger.

"Alin relax...is this a way to greet someone you claim you love?" 

"Loved. That was the past and we both know that."

He was now looking at her with an unreadable expression. "Alin, you do know that the necklace was for you? There are a lot of unanswered questions between us and I need to know all of them. Come to my suite tonight."

His words about the necklace surprised her. She hated it, but it felt a relief that the necklace was for her. "Jared you know I can't, I'm getting married. I don't want to complicate things further and-"

"My suite 11pm tonight. If you don't come, I'll come find you"

The music ended at that moment and Alin didn't have time to decide. Hallie and Ryan had also noticed them dancing and both realized what Ryan said might have been right. 

"Alin are you okay what did Valentine say to you?" John harsh tone was a warning sign.

"Nothing that was worth my time and yours." She lied. "John I'm tired I just want to go home. If you want to stay then I'll go myself."

She didn't answer his question and he was beyond pissed. He was sure what he said had made her want to go home. He was not going when there were women here who wanted him. There was a cute blond and brunette in the corner who had been giving him flirtatious looks the whole night. 'Nothing cures stress like a good fucking threesome.' If she wanted to go home she was welcome to. Besides after the wedding he'll just go back to fucking any woman he wanted. "No Alin I need to stay. I have things to sort out. I'll send Peter to take you home." 

She watched him walk away. She knew he was pissed but truthfully she didn't care. 

She had bid goodbye to everyone at the ball, except Jared. For some strange reason Hallie and Ryan looked strangely happy together. Alin haven't seen Hallie look this happy for a long time and she felt that it was probably down to Ryan. Somehow Alin had noticed there was something different about Hallie at that moment when she saw her. Was it happiness Hallie lacked over these past five years?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After Peter had dropped her off, she went inside the apartment and tided the already immaculate place, even prepared her next shopping list, doing everything not to think of Jared's words. She hadn't changed her clothes, so she was giving herself options to go. Eventually she sighed and looked out from the balcony. Her heart told her go but her brain logically told her she was stepping into a trap.

Grabbing her bag she rushed out the door before she changed her mind...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin nervously knocked on the door. Her heart beat was thumping abnormally fast. Nervous, excited or scared? She didn't have time to collect her feelings before the door opened and standing there looking devilishly handsome was Jared. He was still dressed in what he wore earlier minus his suit jacket...and the top five buttons of his shirt. He let her in and proceeded to the bar stocked with variety of liquor. 

"Drink?" 

"Jared I thought you wanted to talk to me. I don't think drinking is a good idea. Just say what you have to say. I've got a meeting tomorrow and-"

"Alin, it's just a drink. One drink" 

"Fine. Just give me whatever. " 

"I'll fix up the drink so wait for me in the balcony." It was a command rather than a request and she hated the fact that she let him have the upper hand. She wandered into the balcony and stared out into the peaceful night sky.

Jared had the drinks in his hand, but he left it on the table just before he stepped outside of the balcony. He watched her gazing into the darkness, lit only by the moonlight. Five years. She was nineteen when he had first met her, she was also standing looking out into the sky on a balcony. Now standing there, she was more mature and sophisticated with a slight hint of innocence, her tight dress clinging to every curve she possessed. She looked beautiful, truly beautiful. 

Alin was about to go back inside to see what was taking Jared so long when suddenly both his hands were braced on both sides of her with the balcony rail as support. He did not rest himself against her back but he was close...too close for comfort. 

"Jared - what are you doing?" she was supposed to sound angry but it came out like a whimper. Strangely she wanted him to wrap his arm around her waist like he used to but she willed herself to fight the lust he ignited within her. His scent was driving her insides crazy.

"Alin... I want to give you something" She heard something snap open. Before she could turn around and see what it was, Jared had clasped the necklace on. 

The diamond was glistening under the full moon. It was beautiful clasped around Alin's neck. Jared rested both his arm around her waist now, he was breathing heavily against her neck. 

"Remember one of the first things I gave you?" Alin wanted to say something but she couldn't. Jared continued, "It was a necklace just like this one. When I saw this I had to get it. No way was I going to let Haltor get it. This necklace belongs to me...and so do you"

The last statement made Alin snap back to reality. She turned round and glared at him "Jared how many times..." Alin sighed in frustration, "I'm getting married in three weeks and I have no intention of getting back with you, so forget it!" Alin wanted to get out of here. She pushed past him and walked towards the main door when Jared grabbed hold of her wrist and pulled her back. 

"Get off me!"

Jared was done with this whole seduction crap. He still didn't know what he wanted from her but it hell ain't gonna be no sweet treatment. He was going treat her like the whore she is.

"Alin let me tell you this straight, I didn't come back because I wanted you, I came back to tell the world..." he paused and the corner of his mouth curled up, "what's mine will always be mine until I say so."

"What is wrong with you? Get it in your head that I am getting married and it's not with you!" 

The tension in the air was obvious. The smile on his face appeared again. It was disturbing and Alin wanted to get the hell out of his suite. She reached for the door when his next words came crashing down on her. 

"Your dad owes my company $5 million dollars with interest," He let his words sink in, "No actually YOU owe my company the money... Alin, how in the world do you think you're going to repay this?"

"But... but the company is a-"

"Illegitimate business? Thanks to you I now own a share of it."

She didn't understand what he was talking about, but realization sunk in at what he was playing at, "You bastard! You knew my dad couldn't repay the money and you let him borrow that much!"

"I didn't point a gun to his head nor did I let him borrow that much. Let me remind you, he doesn't owe me money YOU do. Alin you know you're fortunate that you owe my company the money otherwise I don't know who would allow no payment for three fucking months." 

"Thank you for your generosity." Her words were dripped with sarcasm.

"You know karma's a bitch. You left me humiliated and now it's your turn."




Not What It Seems Ch. 03



"I don't know what you are talking about!"

"Not only are you a whore, you're a fucking liar too. But you know what piss me off the most are your so-called principles. Haltor has been fucking every single thing that moves and yet you stay with him. I guess the little act about how your parent's relationship affected you, was all a pile of shit. Let me guess you are staying with Haltor because he can repay the debt?"

He watched as tears slid down her cheeks, while she remained quiet. So everything he had said was true, why else would she remain speechless. 

The last bit was true. Her father had told her the only option was to marry Haltor to repay the debt. Or wait for the inheritance, which was going to be given to her on her 25th birthday, a year away. Not an option.

"Yes, I'm forgiving John for the fact that he can repay the debt. We have nothing else to talk about -"

Alin stopped talking when Jared started making his way towards her. She quickly opened the door but his hand went above her head to slam it shut. She was scared, the look on his face made her feel like a prey. Jared wanted her life to be hell and make her repay the money, marry that bastard Haltor and have a shit life, convincing every penny out of him. But the truth is she belongs to him. He wanted to humiliate both her and Haltor. Right now he wanted to fuck her...



Not What It Seems Ch. 04



Hi!

Yet again I really want to thank the words of encouragement and feedback from readers. They mean a lot to me, so please continue to comment. I enjoy reading them immensely! I don't know how the voting system works, but I have noticed a split between love and hate for my story, some readers voting me really really low. I don't mind as that's ultimately the reader's opinion, but I would like it if you also give me constructive feedback- good or bad I don't mind, so I can improve on it next time :) 

To Jim who emailed me about a possible editor, I tried emailing you back but your email address keeps bouncing on me. If you email me with a different address I can discuss it with you :)

I have taken on board some reader's comment and made the chapters longer, and it won't be a week between submissions, but 2/3 days is too much sorry! :)

Regardless please enjoy the story :) 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

He braced his hands on both sides of her, trapping her in. Pushing the hard muscles of his chest, Alin turned to the side and cried, "Jared let me go...please!"

Lowering both his hands, he tilted her chin so that she was looking at him and stated harshly, "Alin, you know what makes me laugh? The fact that you think by marrying that son of a bitch Haltor can help you...well let me break it to you, it won't. Five million is nothing to me. I want more than money. I want something that belongs to me." 

"Jared...please what do you want from me? Just let me go!" 

He lowered his head and whispered in her ear, "you're a hypocritical bitch, but I still want you. I've wanted to fuck you the day I laid my eyes on you."

Alin was so shocked she lifted her hand to slap him but he caught her wrist, pushed her even harder against the door and crushed his mouth on hers. She immediately tried to push him away, using her fists and punching his hard chest. It was no use she was already starting to respond. She knew she was fighting a losing battle. It felt good, like the first time he had kissed her. 

Jared felt the satisfaction of when Alin responded. He probed open her lips, entwining his tongue with hers. He was starting to get hard. When he heard Alin moan he couldn't take it anymore he had to have her. 

He broke away from the kiss and heard Alin whimper in disappointment. He grinned and whispered, "Does Haltor not satisfy you enough?"

Alin was about to push him away for his comment when he started to lightly kiss her lips, traveling down the column on her neck and sucked on it gently. Alin was confused. It felt good. No it felt amazing. Tension was building in her lower belly. Closing her eyes and trying to contain her moan by biting down on her lip, she didn't realize Jared slowly unzipping her black dress from behind. 

The dress slid down her body like silk until it pooled on the floor. Jared took a step back and looked at her. Her lips were swollen, her hair was starting to loosen from the clip, and to top it all off she was now currently clad in black lacy bra, panties and her heels.

Alin was breathing hard. It made her breast swell and her nipples harden. Jared started to fondle her breast, cupping them over her bra. She was a handful. He pressed himself against her, letting her feel how hard he was, while he nipped at her earlobe as a distraction to unclasp her bra. By the time Alin saw Jared tossing her bra she was already so aroused, her brain told her to say no, however her body was responding to his every touch. 

He slowly trailed his mouth down the valley of her breast, licking the sides and around the areola of her nipple, until, after teasing Alin to the point of frustration, he finally latched his mouth on her aching nipple and sucked on it. 

"Jared..."

Hearing his name come out of her mouth so seductively made his cock twitch painfully. His hand which were tweaking her other nipple traveled down her toned stomach and finally her pussy. He could feel her wetness soaking onto her panties, which further fueled his arousal. Now sucking and licking on her other swollen nipple, he lifted her up and wrapped her legs around his waist.

Feeling reckless was not something Alin was used to. She was used to following rules her whole life. Listening to what was 'right'. She didn't want to change now. Being with Jared was wrong, when she was about to marry John. She had to stop this now. 

Jared was walking towards his bed like a madman. He had never wanted a woman to the point of recklessness. He wanted to erase every single memory she had shared with Haltor. It made him jealous. He hated feeling jealous. He didn't even love her so why did he feel like this? By fucking her he could soon get her out of his system and once he got bored he could just get rid of her.

He gently sat her down on the bed, so that she was on the edge of the bed, and finally stopped sucking her deliciously inviting peaks to look at her in only her panties and heels. He took out the clip from her hair and let her long soft hair cascade over her breasts. He could now see her hesitation. He was fully dressed while she was half naked. He so badly wanted to tear of her panties and thrust into her. 

Alin sat up while she saw the predatory flash in Jared eyes. If she didn't speak up now, it would be too late. 

Panting she mumbled, "Jared - please I don't want this. I will repay you the money. Please I'm getting married! Do you not see how wrong this is-" Alin stopped talking when she noticed the change in his eyes. He was angry.

He knelt down and reached out for her. Tearing off her panties, he used his hand and stroked her pussy lips, feeling her wetness. Hearing her moan he moved his hand up to her clit and slowly traced it. Using his other hand he tilted her chin, so she was looking at him.

"You don't fucking want this? Jared said harshly, stroking her clit and tweaking on it with more pressure. Alin moaned. "So how come you're so wet? And don't fucking talk about Haltor. As I recall we were a week away from getting married and you didn't hesitate to fuck him." 

Not wanting to even admit it to herself, Alin knew she wanted this, wanted him. At that moment, she didn't want to listen to logic. She wouldn't stop this, because it was what she wanted. Had she lost? No, she thought because sex didn't mean love and what he was provoking in her was lust. Even if it's for one night, she wanted it. 

She started grinding herself on his fingers trying to get him to apply more pressure. Jared sensed her responding to his touches. He slowly eased one then two fingers inside her pussy, while his thumb simultaneously drew circles on her clit. She was so fucking tight and it was only her wetness that eased his fingers in so easily. 

He was watching her. She had her lips slightly parted, eyes closed and pleasure marked all over her face. 

Alin was so aroused she wanted something more. She was frustrated; she lightly grabbed her hair and gently pulled, easing the building tension in her lower belly. Her other hand was cupping her own breasts. Although she had no experience in sex, she knew she was about to orgasm- thanks to the magazines Hallie used to read.

Hearing the sweet cries of her moaning, Jared could sense that she was about to climax. He removed his hand and heard her whimper in frustration and disappointment. He was now at the point of no return he was so hard; his bulge was straining against his trousers.

It took Alin a few seconds to realize his fingers had left her. She couldn't help but whimper. She opened her eyes and was greeted with the sight of him tearing his clothes off frantically. He stood naked in front of her, watching her watch him. 

Alin's gazed lingered on his toned chest and abdomen, drifting lower to his erected manhood. The sheer size of his cock made her nervous. It must hurt. She had to tell him of her relationship with John before anything.

Jared couldn't wait any longer he laid her on the bed and was on top of her. He poised his cock at her entrance, teasing it up and down her pussy, coating his cock with her wetness. 

"Jared I have something to tell you, I have never-"

He placed his finger on her lips to silence her. He didn't want to hear anything concerning Haltor. Instead he whispered in her ear, "Your mine" and with that he thrust into her in one swift movement. 

Everything happened really quickly. Alin screamed in pain, trying to push him away. Tears were sliding down her cheeks, as she tried to adjust to his size 

At that point he had so many unanswered questions in his head. How can she be a virgin? He kept really still on top of her to let her adjust to his size. Jared nuzzled her neck while his hand drifted to her clit, tracing gentle touches. 

After a few moments, the pain was still evident but Alin felt unfulfilled.

Jared felt her relaxing underneath him, and then her growing restlessness. Her pussy was so tight and was gripping his cock pleasurably. Removing his hand from her clit, he wrapped both his arms around her waist so he could lift her up. 

Wanting to feel him deeper inside her, Alin arched upwards so she could meet his thrusts, which were slow and shallow. He was teasing her by pulling his cock all the way out and thrusting slowly back into her. He did this a few times until he heard her cry in frustration.

"Please..." 

With that Jared held onto her tightly and thrust into her deeper and deeper. His mouth found its way to her hardening nipples and suckled hard on it. She was fast approaching her climax clenching and unclenching on his cock.

Jared could feel her orgasm nearing and thrust into her faster. He could feel the tension building. "Let it go" he whispered in her ear, finding her engorged clit and stroked it hard.

With that Alin screamed her release, climaxing hard and trembling, gripping Jared's cock tighter. 

Feeling her climax, made Jared thrust into Alin harder and harder, until he too reached his climax, roaring his release and shooting his seed deep into her. 

It seemed an eternity, with only their breathing and the smell of sex lingering in the air. After a couple more minutes Alin shifted underneath him indicating her uncomfortable position. He rolled off of her and onto his side bringing her closer to him. 

"How can you act like a whore, yet still remain a virgin?"

Alin was tired and after the intimacy they had shared he still had to hurt her. She wanted to get out of this place and forget everything that has happened. Yes the sex was great but it was just sex, something he had done with plenty of beautiful women.

Tears were starting to form in her eyes. She started to get up when she felt his arm tighten around her. "Get off me! You got what you wanted! Since you think I'm some whore, I should go back to John and act like one!" Alin screamed trying to contain her anger. She still didn't know why he hated her so much. Yes she had left him a week before their wedding, humiliating him. However he had brought it on himself. Why was he treating her like this?

Jared's arm remained on her waist until he felt the last of her struggles. "Don't fight me any longer. Go to sleep. You're tired." 

His grip remained tight on her. She didn't want to listen to him, but Alin was exhausted and she needed sleep before facing the trouble ahead of her. After a few more struggles it was evident Jared would not let her go. She drifted off to sleep almost instantly. Jared watched her innocent face when she was fast asleep. He shook his head, almost to wake himself up so that he wouldn't lose himself in her sweetness again. 

Cleaning his cum and her blood off his cock, Jared let his mind wander while letting water fall over his body. He still couldn't believe she was untouched. Haltor must know that, so why would she jeopardize her wedding and sleep with him? Maybe she loved him? No, he thought. She was a lying bitch who would do anything for money. 

That was ultimately why they had sex. She did it for money, and if someone else had paid the debt for her, she would have slept with them. She betrayed him once, he would never trust her again.

He remembered her face when he had entered her. She was so pure, innocent and sweet. He reminded himself that was the reason why he put so much trust into her. He came for revenge. He wanted to fuck up her life, use her and go. He kept reminding himself that before he dried himself off and joined her in bed. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The morning light was slowly shining in, waking Alin up. It had just gone 7:30am. She felt someone breathing next to her, and the event of last night reminded her who she was with, and the dilemma she was in. Sliding off the bed quietly as not to wake Jared up and face an unnecessary confrontation.

She felt the dull ache between her legs- a constant reminder as the way he made love to her last night. No she thought it wasn't making love. It was sex. 

Alin sighed at the recklessness of giving up her virginity to someone without love. Something she always said she wouldn't do. She dressed quickly, making as little noise as possible, she let herself out of his hotel suite. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Stretching, Jared reached for the other side and found the bed empty. He was tired and his muscles ached everywhere. 'No working out as intense as sex' he thought. It had just gone 9am and Jared has never not got to the office by 8. Scratching his head, Jared wondered what she was doing to him. He would never sleep in the same bed with a woman after fucking her. 

He looked around and realized her clothes were gone. She must have left not long ago. God thinking of her made him hard. Before going into the office, he'll find her and tell her what he wanted. She would be reluctant. But what Jared Valentine wants is what he gets. 

Jared got up and kicked something. He bent down and picked it up. It was Alin's bag. He smiled.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin had the most hectic morning ever. After getting home from Jared's, Hallie had left fifteen messages on her answering machine, telling her to get her arse down the orphanage and pick up her cell phone. Alin immediately searched for her phone and groaned. She had left her bag at Jared's! Cursing her stupidity, and the realization that she had to see him again to pick up her bag, she called Hallie.

"Alin?! Where the hell have you been!? Did you forget that you were supposed to see Mrs Brown this morning? Where is your phone? I called you twenty times on your cell phone, and you switched it off! You never forget to meet Mrs Brown! Its 9:30 you were supposed to be here by 8:00!" 

"Hallie, I'm really sorry I left my phone somewhere and I can't find it. I...erm...I overslept this morning." Alin hated lying but she couldn't tell Hallie where she was last night. Otherwise a lecture was going to be delivered. 

'The pause', Hallie knew Alin was lying. She would confront her later but in the meantime, she would just let it slip.

"Just get yourself down here. Mrs Brown and the children are really excited to see you!"

After the call had ended, Alin quickly loaded her car with the gifts and head her way over to the orphanage.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Hallie had little Penny in her arms while Alex was sitting in the chair next to his mother quietly, Mrs Brown was in deep discussion with Hallie about the next project on improving the orphanage, When Alin knocked on the office door. 

"Mrs Brown, I am so sorry. I had a hectic morning." Alin panted. 

Mrs Brown was worried as Alin was never late.

"No worries Alin. Are you okay?"

"Yes I'm fine thanks. I've got the gifts ready; shall we go and give it to the children?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"The children are so happy to receive these beautiful gifts from you. Alin, Hallie I don't know what to say. Over these past years, Christmas, birthdays and even in the summer, you've spent time with the children, re-designing this place so the children can finally have a real home, and donating money to us. I just... from behalf of the children and staff here, I just want to thank you for all your kindness!"

Alin and Hallie looked at each other and smiled. They have been helping out at the orphanage for a number of years, but Mrs Brown always got really emotional. Mrs Brown excused herself to clean her tear-stained face.

Hallie was feeding Penny and watching Alex play with the children, while Alin was chatting to the children listening to their stories, when one of the helpers at the orphanage came in.

"Hey Alin, nice to see you. How are you?"

"Mary, thanks I'm really well, you?"

"Not bad, anyway I came in to tell you that a gentleman is looking for you," indicating to the door where Jared was currently leaning on the door frame, Alin looked shocked and didn't know what to say. 

Mary excused herself and went, while both Alin and Hallie looked shocked. Jared was holding her bag and strolling over to her.

"Jared, what the hell are you doing here?!" Alin hissed, trying to contain her anger. 

She was trying to keep her voice down, knowing full well Hallie was both staring at them and listening intently.

"I came to give you your bag back. You left it at my place yesterday." Jared replied casually with a smirk on his face. He had said it loud enough for Hallie to hear. 

Alin wanted to kill him. He had purposely done this. He lowered his head and whispered, "Last night...was great. Come to my place tonight at 9." Nibbling on her earlobe, he slowly lifted his head back up, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. Alin knew he was putting a show for Hallie indicating the extent of their relationship.

Turning his attention on to Hallie, Jared smiled, "Hallie, long time. How are you? Your daughter is beautiful can I hold her?"

Hallie genuinely really like Jared, when he and Alin dated. She was sad that they split up, and now that he was back in New York, she secretly wanted Alin to get back together with him, especially after what Ryan had told her the yesterday at the charity ball.

"Jared it's really nice to see you. Of course you can. She's called Penny. I also have a son. He's over there. His name is Alex."

"Hallie, it's great to see how happy you are," Jared smiled, cooing at the baby, while Hallie forced a bitter smile at the irony of his words. 

Alin was still dumbfounded at Jared's action. She watched him holding the baby, and walked over to where both of them were standing. Handing the baby back to Hallie he was about to say something to Alin when Hallie said, "Jared your such a natural with babies. Look she's sleeping! Maybe it's time to end your bachelor lifestyle and start a family."

Cringing at Hallie words Alin wanted the ground to swallow her right now. She knew Hallie had said those words on purpose to see both her and Jared's reaction. 

"Hallie, I wanted that a long time ago. I wanted to start a family, but you know things change, people change. It's not that easy. Trust is an issue. Anyway I have to get back to the office. Hallie it's nice to see you after so many years. We need to go out for lunch sometimes so we can catch up."

"Jared, seriously tell me when and I'll bring the kids along. I don't know if you remember but when I was pregnant you said you wanted to be their godfather. I hope you haven't backed out."

Smiling, Jared had always had a soft spot for Hallie. She was like a younger sister to him. He purposely stayed out of contact with her as she was so close to Alin. "Hallie, I'm so glad you said that. Of course I haven't forgotten. Yes I need to meet my god children. You can get my number off Alin and we'll catch up."

Just before Jared reached the door he turned around and said, "Alin I'll see you tonight at 9..." and with that he left.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The journey back to Alin's apartment was painful. Hallie didn't say a word and Alin kept quiet. However the tension was so clear inside the car. It was only when they reached the apartment, Hallie confronted her.




Not What It Seems Ch. 04



"Okay, the silence is killing me. Alin what is going on?!"

Alin didn't know what to say to Hallie. She couldn't tell her about the money, seeing as Hallie would offer to help her. The money was a big sum and she didn't want to burden her. 

"Last night...I slept with Jared. We...at the time it felt right... and I –"

"What do you mean it felt right at the time? How could you sleep with him when you are marrying John? Look I'm more than happy if you say you are getting back with Jared. Alin, John cheated on you, and yet you stand by him. You have no worries like children so why give him a chance"

"Hallie, Jared cheated on me too." 

Hallie felt like a hypocrite. She was telling her to leave John, yet she doesn't have the courage to do what she told her friend to do. She reminded herself that she needed to think of the children. "Alin, you never even confronted him about it. You just left him."

Alin was frustrated and upset, holding the tears at bay, she hissed back, "Hallie what's done is done. I'm still going to marry John. I hate Jared and you know what, he wants to ruin my life. All he wants is revenge! He keeps going on about how I helped John five years ago about doing something and nearly ruining his business"

Curious now, Hallie continued, "Why don't you ask him A? You know how reckless you're acting right now? It's just an advice, go see Jared tonight and ask him about it"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

If Jared thought he was seeing her tonight he had another thing coming. She was preparing for an early night; a nice relaxing bath should help leave her troubles behind...

Banging at her door woke Alin up. It was lucky that someone has because the bath water was starting to get cold, and she could feel a chill creeping in.

She grabbed a towel and tied it round herself, thinking it was Hallie coming over. Lately, Hallie always liked to come over after putting the children to sleep, it was like she was escaping something...but when Alin asked she would always say she was fine.

"Hold on, I'm coming, hey Hal-"

Standing in front of her looking dangerously handsome in a suit was Jared. His mouth curled into a smile staring at her all wet wrapped around in a towel. Her hair was damp but smooth, where Jared ached to run his hands down. 

"Do you always greet your guest in just a towel or were you expecting Haltor to come?" His amused face contrasted the harsh words he was saying.

Alin did not expect to see Jared here. Yes she was supposed to meet him at 9 and it was already nearing 10, but she couldn't believe he had the guts to come and see her. His intense gaze made her nervous and made her feel naked. Okay yes she didn't have much on but his lust filled gaze told her every intention he had. When she heard his harsh words she immediately proceeded to slam the door in his face. He was too quick- again.

Jared knew his words pissed her off, so when Alin was about to slam the door, he had seen it coming. He pushed the door, grabbed hold of her waist and picked her up, strolling towards her bedroom. 

"Put me down now, or god help you I will call the police! What do you want from me? Did I not make it clear by not coming to see you, that maybe I don't want to see you?"

"Shut up and don't fuck with me Alin. I'm glad you know about our little meeting and since you had no guts to come see me I thought I'll pay you a visit. He laughed harshly and threw her onto the bed. Jared started to loosen his tie.

"What are you doing? I am not having sex with you! Get out of my apartment!"

Jared laughed even more loudly and looked at her before saying, "what else do you think I came here for? Alin you know if you hadn't been such a bitch five years ago this wouldn't happen. If you kept your mouth shut nothing would have happened"

Remembering Hallie's words Alin asked, "Jared I don't know what you are talking about. You know what you did to me so don't twist the truth!" 

He was angry. Alin froze. "You wanna know what the fuck you did to me? Aside from you humiliating me, and going to Haltor, remember that contract I told you about? Haltor that bastard and I were both trying to get? You betrayed me and told him about the troubles the company were facing. You are one heartless bitch, you thought I weren't rich enough for you? Well look how it's turned out now." The bitterness mixed with anger was evident in his voice.

Alin was confused, she remembered about the stress Jared faced over the BankSafe scandal but she hadn't told anyone. That fateful night, she went to see John but was too upset to even form a coherent sentence. "Jared I never said anything to him! I was angry and upset but, regardless I knew how important that contract was!" she cried. 

His voice now dropped to merely a whisper. The soft tone of his voice contrasted with his actions and words, "You remember when I told you there were two things I hated the most?" He saw tears forming around her eyes and her effort to keep them at bay. "Lies and betrayals, you committed both. I only told two people about the contract and the troubles the company faced- you and Charles. Who do you think I would trust more? He is my most trusted assistant who has been working for me for years. Stop lying to me"

It was no use. Whatever she said would not have made a difference. He believed she was lying and she also knew Charles wouldn't betray him so what was the point in telling him it wasn't her? She unwrapped the towel from her body and tossed it aside. She was half lying on the bed while Jared was standing at the foot of the bed. The position he was standing was intimidating. Lifting her head to look into his eyes she saw a surprised glint. She couldn't marry John. Was it love that she felt for Jared? She didn't know but he had the power to stir something in her. Right now she wanted him and to forget how much he despised her. 

Jared was expecting an explanation or at least a further denial from her but she remained quiet. She was guilty. He was contradicting himself. He hated lies yet he desperately wanted her to tell him it wasn't true. His anger was about to consume his judgment, when Alin suddenly unwrapped herself from the towel like a present. She was exquisite. Was she trying to use sex to shut him up? Jared thought and the corner of his mouth curled upwards into a brief smile. She was breathing, which made her breast rise and fall.

He knew she was really nervous, her inexperience showing. Jared felt himself harden at the sight she made against the white sheets, like an innocent goddess. He didn't approach her, enjoying her discomfort at not knowing what to do next. 

Alin was confused and didn't know what to do. She was new to the ways between men and women so when she tossed the towel aside, she thought Jared would make the move. Feeling really nervous, she let her instinct take over and slowly lifted herself from the bed and moved to where Jared was standing. Alin heard him take a sharp intake of breath. She was affecting him more than he let on. Feeling bolder she slowly lifted her hands to further loosen his tie and moved her hands to release his buttons one by one. She took this opportunity to trail the column of his neck with hot kisses, while still teasingly unbuttoning his shirt. 

When the last button was undone she pushed his shirt aside, let it fall to the floor and started stroking his abdomen all the way to his hard chest. Finally she wrapped her arms around his neck and trailed her kisses to his lips. Alin boldly licked his lips, seeking entrance with her hot tongue. 

Jared was on fire. He came to fuck her and then tell her the deal. Now the tables were turned and she was gradually seducing him. He felt her unbuckling his belt and unzipping his trousers. Alin didn't proceed to push his trousers down, instead she pushed herself against his hardness. 

He was about to explode like an untried school boy. Jared couldn't let her fuck with his mind. He pushed her on the bed, while he stripped off the remaining clothing. He didn't immediately move to her. His gaze was burning hot. He took in her now dried hair, tousled and spread out, on the white sheet, like fine silk. Her cheeks were tainted with a faint shade of pink as she blushed at seeing his hard cock. He still didn't move. 

His lustful gaze now traveled to her swollen breasts. Her aroused peaks were beginning to harden. Still, he didn't move. As much as he wanted to take her there and then, he wanted to appreciate and enjoy her beauty. "I want to fuck you. But first I want to taste you" 

His gaze traveled to her flat stomach and her shapely legs before resting on her pussy. He could smell and see the glistening juices seeping from her. 

"Jared ...-"Alin moaned. 

Her sultry tone nearly made him lose control. He gently kneeled before the foot of the bed and pulled her closer. Her legs were dangling off the bed and Jared started to lightly stroke her legs, and slowly moving to her inner thigh. "Alin, baby, tell me you want me. Tell me you need me to be inside you" Jared was holding onto what little control he had left. He needed the words to be spoken.

Alin was so aroused, at that point she would have said anything, "Jared I want you." His hand moved closer to her pussy and slightly stroked the outer lip. She moaned appreciatively. "Oh god, Jared please I need you...I need you inside me" 

Hearing her sweet cries, he gently pulled her closer to him and tenderly opened her to him. Alin was confused with Jared intention. She had her legs spread and her pussy on display for his hungry gaze. She blushed. She tried to sit up so she could pull him to rest on top of her and feel him inside her, however Jared had other ideas. 

"Baby, I love it when you blush. Open your legs for me. I wanna see what's mine"

She disliked his possessive tone, but it also made her weak at the knees. She was so pre-occupied with his tone that it took a second for her to register Jared's bold tongue slowly licking her slit.

"Jared, what...oh god what ...Jared what are you doing" Alin was panting, the pleasure hitting her hard.

"I wanna taste you. You taste so fucking sweet. I want you to come so hard you will never think of another man again." With that statement Jared moved to her clit and suckled hard, using that opportunity to insert a finger in her. He pumped his finger in and out of her adding a second one. He continued to suck on her engorged clit and was rewarded with more of her sweet juices.

"Oh Jared...Jared I want...I want to..." Alin couldn't control her sweet cries. She hated the fact she couldn't seem to control herself. She could see the smug grin he had when he heard her cry his name again and again. He continued to suckle her now swollen clit and watch her close her eyes in ecstasy. Looking at the pleasure written all over her face, reminded Jared of his rock-hard cock. The tip was oozing pre-cum. He sucked one last time before moving away from her sweet pussy, He heard her moan in disappointment. 

Jared couldn't hold it any longer; he laid her head on the pillow, so that she was comfortable and positioned himself on top of her. 

He slowly entered his throbbing cock into her, hearing her impatient moans. He slowly thrust in and out of her creating a gentle rhythm. When she started to eagerly meet his thrust he started to pick up the pace and thrust into her harder and deeper. 

"Alin say my name. Say your mine." Jared was panting. He couldn't control his need to fully possess her. "Alin say it, say your fucking mine now!" Jared suddenly pulled her up so that she was straddling his lap. He placed his manhood at her entrance and thrust up slowly, while she had her arms around his neck. 

The position was so intimate with Alin whispering in his ear what Jared so wanted to hear, "Jared...I'm...Jared I'm yours..." 

He stopped his movement and let her set the pace. Alin was now rocking herself on his cock driving Jared crazy. He was fondling her breasts while she teased him immensely. Both was on the verge of climax, but wanted the moment to last. Jared started to thrust upwards faster and deeper into her, as Alin's moans became louder. 

"Jared...Oh god I want-"

Both were washed over by an orgasm more intense than yesterday, with Jared growling his powerful release. No woman had ever made him lose control like this beautiful woman in his arms. He slipped out of her and pulled her close kissing her tenderly. He placed her head on his chest while they drifted off to sleep. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Never in her life has she felt so content yet confused with what she was doing. Alin looked up to see a sleeping Jared. He was beautiful even more so in the morning light. His slight stubble and his harsh features should have made him intimidating but he was charmingly attractive. 

Alin sighed. This was going to be their last time. She deeply regretted it, but she couldn't allow herself to sleep with Jared anymore, knowing that she would eventually stupidly fall in love with him, or accept his dominance over her. 

She wouldn't marry John, yet she can never stay with Jared. They had too much misunderstanding. Alin got up quietly and was about to walk to the bathroom, when Jared's hands snaked around her waist and pulled her back on the bed. One hand remained holding onto her waist while his face was buried in the back of her neck. His other hand started to caress her breasts. "Where do you think you're going? You running off again?" 

Yet again, he was trying to play with her mind. His wandering hand and his seductive tone made Alin moan softly. His hand moved further down so that he was lightly touching her folds. He groaned when he found her wet.

"Oh god baby you're so wet. You can't wait for me to fuck you again."Jared was about to roll on top of Alin when she pushed him away and proceeded to get up. 

Panting she whispered, "we can't do this anymore...I'll give you the money back somehow. I can't continue to sleep with you. It's...wrong."

Alin noticed the shift in the way he looked at her, from lust to irritation and anger. "Alin you know what I'll tell you what the deal is. You fucking need me. You have two choices: you can't pay back the money we both know that, so either my partner's debt collector come and fuck you up every day, or you be a good little girl and let me fuck you whenever I want. A high-class whore is worth $10,000. You owe me $5 million plus interest. Two years, in my bed willingly for two years and the debt is wiped out. "

"Let me remind you my partner is an impatient man, and so is his people. They aren't here to play games with you and neither am I. I will fuck you up until you pay back every single penny, I promise you I will."

Why did he have to treat her with no respect? Yet again tears were forming but she refuses to shed a single tear for this man, she didn't want to look at him. Softly Alin replied, "So what you're saying is as long as I remain your sex toy, the debt is wiped out? Or shall I say as long as I whore myself out to you I no longer owe you anything?"

Jared saw her upset expression and really wanted to hold back, but he reminded himself that she had brought it on herself. He hated liars and that was exactly what she was. "Call it what you want, but I expect you to attend the Cullen's anniversary party next week with me. I want Haltor humiliated, and most importantly I want the whole world to know how you crawled back into my bed." 

Emotions threatened to overwhelm and consume Alin, but she told herself to be strong. "I want to shower. I have work and Ryan wouldn't appreciate my lateness."

Alin's response threw Jared off-balance. He was expecting her to scream and shout. She put on a bathrobe and was about to open the bedroom door, when she turned round. She had to remain separate and not succumb to his touches or fall in love like she stupidly did before. Alin looked up and looked at him with determination in her eyes, "Jared you know, continue to 'fuck' me whenever you want, but I'm not yours. You will never have me anyway other way than sex. I hate you...and I wished I had never known you." 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

He stared at the closed door in shock. "I wished I had never known you." Her words kept repeating itself in his head. Jared could hear her sobs even though the shower was on. Battling with his inner demons he really wanted to go to the bathroom and hold her close... he couldn't.

Jared never mixed business with pleasure, always remaining cool and ruthless when dealing with anything related with business. To him, Alin was supposed to be a business transaction. She owns him money, so now she was paying with her body. Was it really that simple?

No, he had loved her, but now he wanted to hurt her as badly as she had hurt him. Jared couldn't think straight. After Alin, he had not committed himself into any relationship, instead enjoying the full bachelor lifestyle and fucking any women he wanted. But now he didn't want to be with any other woman, and that bothered him. Regardless, he had two years to fuck her until he got tired of her, maybe even after six months he would move on. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin washed and scrubbed every inch of her body, until her skin was raw and painful. She wanted to eliminate any trace of Jared on her body. She couldn't hold in her tears any longer. 

She had done so before she got in the shower, not wanting Jared to hear or witness her cries and see through her weakness, thinking that the running water could conceal her loud cries. In a way she was happy she had left Jared five years ago. He was a heartless bastard and if she was a young nineteen year old dealing with him now, she would probably have killed herself- like her mother had. Alin was glad she finally knew the real Jared Valentine. 

What surprised Alin, though was the fact she didn't feel bad for John. She never felt she could trust him...though now that she thought about it Jared didn't fare any better. Now as her mind returned to a more logical state, she turned off the shower and wrapped a towel around her shattered body. The physical pain of her scrubbing was evident, though it was the emotional pain that damage her completely. Alin couldn't hear anything outside so she assumed Jared was gone. She was wrong. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared was deep in thought, when she opened her bedroom door. Wrapped in a towel, with her hair draping down and her lips slightly bruised due to his aggressive kisses yesterday, Jared looked at her captivating form. Yesterday she was in a towel, but with the morning light shining in now, she was like an exquisite gift sent down from heaven. He felt his cock hardening under the covers. However, her eyes had said all he needed to know about her desire for him. Her slightly swollen eyes from the crying and the sadness told him she despised him. She turned around, facing away from him to get dressed. 

Knowing that she was so innocent and shy and unbeknown at the fact that the act was actually arousing him further more, she slid on her panties with her back to him.

Jared should have used honeyed words to re-ignite her desire for him, but he didn't, his wound from five years ago had not recovered. He wanted to hurt her until she felt the same as he had.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin was shocked when she opened her bedroom door and noticed Jared still in her bed, sitting up and deep in thought. The situation was awkward and she wanted to tell him to get out of her apartment. She couldn't. He had won. Alin didn't look at him, but she had noticed his powerful gaze following her every movement. She noticed the desire in his eyes, and cursed herself for not getting change in the bathroom. Innocently, she turned around to get dressed, hoping by not witnessing her naked body, his desire would magically disappear.




Not What It Seems Ch. 04



Still she remained quiet, hoping that even if they did have sex right now, he would no longer hurt her with words.

"I've never had a personal whore, and I'll tell you, from now on, whatever I want, you give it to me willingly. I don't share, so don't think about fucking other guys behind my back." 

She felt hot tears sliding down her cheeks, while she frantically used the back of her hand to wipe it away. Alin wanted to say something, anything to hurt him back. No words were forming. He had officially won whatever sick and twisted game he wanted to play. Nodding her head weakly, indicating she had understood, she watched him get up and walk past her, he paused before opening the bedroom door, "I will soon arrange you to move into one of the apartments I stay in." He murmured his last words before he let himself out of her bedroom and the apartment. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Finally, hearing her apartment door shut quietly, did Alin allow the tears to fall freely. Her own father treated her like nothing more than garbage, and now she was a personal whore to a man. "Mom, what have I done wrong?" Alin whispered.



Not What It Seems Ch. 05



Hi,

Sorry for the delay in posting this chapter, I have been really busy lately with THREE assignments, alongside my chaotic personal life.

I would like to thank and also apologize to my editor Jim; he did a amazingly fantastic job :) but I didn't give him enough time, so if there's anything wrong with this chapter it would entirely be my fault.

I have to warn that I physically cannot post as quickly as I used to. I am in fact away for a whole month end of March so I really cannot write as much as I would like. I'm really sorry. Though before I leave I would try and post up chapter 6. 

Also would like to thank readers for comments and votes they mean a HELL of a lot to me. 

Ascii

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

November 2005

"I'm okay." 

Jared knew those words, screamed 'I'm fucking sick of this.' He could detect the exhaustion in the tone of her voice. Today he had to press on, 

"Alin, what's wrong?"

She exhaled loudly, "No, Jared I'm okay."

"Alin, you know you're like an open book, even through the tone of your voice I can pick up the signals that you're not."

"Jared, you really want to know?" Her voice was slightly raised, yet she didn't sound angry, instead it was laced with aggravation. "I have college, I have an internship, I have the orphanage I work for, and to top it all off, I'm planning for a wedding that takes place in less than a month. Jared, ever since we've dated, I never minded being left alone for months on end...but sometimes even with the wedding planners and your grandmother's help, I do want to ask for your opinion. I understand you have your business to deal with, but how can I deal with the fact that my boyfriend – no fiance is half way across the world...and I don't know what he's doing?"

She tried to blink away the emotions, but found she couldn't. The stress was getting to her. Jared didn't have the greatest track record and her insecurities were growing. Although he called her daily, it was always a brief call. What if he was bedding other women? These thoughts were constantly in her head.

Now it was Jared's turn to be frustrated. He knew her last words were indirectly questioning him if he'd been fucking around, and the truth was he hadn't touched a woman for nearly ten fucking months. It was driving him crazy, yet he had remained faithful to her. Why couldn't she just trust him? Maybe his frustrations led him to say the words he would come to regret.

"Alin, if college is stressing you out. Drop out. I didn't need to go college to get to where I am today. If the internship is stressing you out. Quit. It's not as if I'm happy with Haltor being around you so much. Besides, after the wedding I don't want you to go to college or work anymore-"

"Why?"

"Why? Because I don't like Haltor being near my fiancée, I don't want you to work after you marry me. I don't want people to think I can't afford to give my wife a life of luxury."

His words infuriated her, he was ordering her around. "You know what, Hallie is busy preparing for the arrival of the baby. My other friends also have a life. Your grandmother is in Spain. But John is always there for me! When you're not around, he's the one who's been looking out for me! As for college and work, I will never give that up, and I REFUSE to live off you. You just don't get me, do you? Being an architect is my dream and-"

John Haltor, just hearing his name from her lips made his blood boil to a breaking point. "SO it's JOHN now? No more Mr Haltor? When did you get to know each other so well? Obviously when I'm gone right? Fuck, Alin you really know how to piss me off. As for working? No I don't want you to work. I don't need you to earn an income for us-"

"YOU JUST DON'T GET IT DO YOU? He doesn't like me, but even if he does, it's not because I want to get to know him better, it's you giving him a chance! As for college AND working," mimicking his words she continued, "I don't care WHAT YOU WANT, BUT IT'S WHAT I WANT-"

From her tone she was officially pissed off. They never argued before, and Jared didn't want trivial matters to come between them. Exhaling his annoyance, he stated, "Alin, your being immature-"

"Your right Jared, seeing as I'm eleven years younger than you, maybe I am immature." 

Before he could answer she had hung up. Jared didn't think he was wrong. Because of the company's problems, Jared didn't have time to see Alin. All he wanted was for her to live a comfortable lifestyle without having to work. What was wrong with that? He had been working his whole life, providing an adequate lifestyle for himself and his grandmother. Now that he had money, he didn't see why she had to work. Haltor was purposefully driving them apart, and he hated that she couldn't see it.

Fuck, everything in his life was going wrong, his private life, and his business. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Eight months ago you were on top of the world. Now?" 

Faye turned around and saw John Haltor laughing at her. His words urged her to slap the shit out of his arrogant smirk, but what use was that? He was right. She didn't look like a renowned bikini model but a woman drinking away her sorrows. 

"Leave me alone John. I look like a piece of shit because of you fucking men. Fuck with me a few months and when a younger bitch comes along, you bastards dump me." She slurred her words obviously drunk. 

She turned her back to him and returned to drinking. John slid on the stool next to her, "Two JD on the rocks." After the bartender laid the drinks in front of them, John slowly leaned in closer and whispered in her ear, "Faye, you are fucking hot you know that? Valentine doesn't know what he's missing. He doesn't know what he's getting into with those young cunts. Why are you so upset? Baby, even though we fucked a long time ago, I still remember how good you are." John tried to make his words as convincing as possible. 

Yeah, Faye was a good fuck. Nothing more than a good fuck. They went way back, she was just starting out as a model, and he was a typical bachelor who wanted different girls every night. As she climbed the social ladder, she had snared Jared Valentine, hoping she would become his steady girlfriend or even a trophy wife. 

"Faye, if I could give you one thing right now what would you want?" He continued to whisper in her ear seductively.

"I want to ruin that bitch." She stated swiftly and harshly, obviously the idea had been on her mind constantly.

"Baby, what if I said I could help?" He did another once over, and realized she was still pretty fuckable. John wouldn't waste having another go. Her eyes lit up as John whispered in her ear. Good things come to those with patience...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Six days. They haven't spoken in six days, and warning bells started to go off. What if Haltor took this chance to move in? His thoughts were monopolized by Alin. He couldn't concentrate even at the most important business meetings. Now smiling though, Jared admired her determination and not a fucking gold-digger like Faye Morlan or other girls he used to be with. Jared knew he had taken out some stress on her. He never had to explain himself. But he wanted to tell her the stress he was facing. He wanted her to know. If they were to be married he knew he had to trust her.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

A surge in the use of the internet helped Jared discover a gap in the market, where there was an increase use of purchasing goods online. This ultimately led to the set up of BankSafe. The e-commerce and dot com business would be the next phenomena. The idea of BankSafe allowed customers to set up an account, and using the account as a medium to transfer money or purchase goods. The BankSafe account was funded by a Bank account. Paying directly from a bank account involved a lot of hassle and was less safe than using a BankSafe account. 

The company was known for its tough security checks and a sophisticated system to prevent fraudulent and cyber crimes while maintaining a user-friendly interface. As the company was a success many potential investors were investing heavily in BankSafe, pushing the share price to an all time high. 

HTU was a subsidiary company of The Haltor Corporation. HTU was a leader in offering money transfers via online services, where customers can collect money in any of its 450 location worldwide- for a fee, each transaction costs around $50 or more, depending on how much money was being transferred. It was the market leader, turning over $1billion annually, until BankSafe entered the market in 1999, decreasing HTU's market share. 

BankSafe did not charge its general customers, instead charging the companies that use its service. By late 2004, HTU had expanded it services, and provided a service so that customers can also use their account to purchase goods. HTU matched whatever services BankSafe provided. The two companies competed heatedly, and by 2005 both were fighting over a contract to be the sole company to provide its services to a major online auction site, E-BID.COM, which was worth over $5billion dollars over three years. 

After scheduling meetings, pitching to the auction site, Jared had successfully bagged the contract...

Until disaster struck.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"How could this have happened? Matthew, what the fuck? You are in charge of the fucking accounts and you tell me six months later that the accounts have been fiddled with?" Jared's anger could have been heard from a mile away. 

"Jared, I mean um...Mr. Valentine, it's not as if I didn't want to tell you, but if the vice president and the marketing director needed access to funds, I didn't think I needed to inform you of trivial matters. Besides, each time wasn't a big sum, so it wasn't exactly noticeable-" 

"Where the fuck did you go college? In six months both swindled the company out of $1million each and you're telling me it's not a lot? Each time, it was $10,000 plus and that's not noticeable? I'll take $10,000 off your next pay check if it's not fucking noticeable. Fuck Matthew, keep this quiet, if it gets out we are screwed on the publicity side. I don't need this right now."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared had scheduled an important board meeting. The two involved in the scandal were immediately terminated. The company decide not to file a case, as the information would definitely be publicized. One of the clauses for the E-Bid.com contract was BankSafe had to perform to a suitable standard. If the scandal was leaked, it would result in a breach of contract, where BankSafe would have to compensate money, and also the contract would be terminated. Aside from the disaster of the contract, it would be bad publicity for the company, leading to an irrational selling of BankSafe shares, where the value of it would plummet instantly. So far only the board of executives and his trusted assistant, Charles knew about the scandal. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Alin- No please don't hang up! Listen I have something to tell you. Please?"

She was a little angry. He hadn't called her in six days. It wasn't as if she couldn't call him, but because he changes location every other day, it was hard to keep track. "Jared, if we are going back to the topic about John, college and my internship, I don't want to talk to you-"

"No, I want to apologize. Look Alin I'm not trying to change you, I'm not going to say I'm happy with your friendship with Haltor, but I can accept it. The thing is BankSafe is not doing well, and I know I've taken out the stress on you. We just...damn the company is really messed up right now. I've just found out the accounts have been fiddled with by two senior executives. If this gets out the company will lose a lot of money and I'll lose the contract I've been trying so hard to get."

Sighing, she felt guilty for being angry, yet it was hard to accept the fact he was never there for her. Still, she decided not to show her annoyance, "Jared, I understand, I've seen news report that HTU had lost out on the contract, I'm really happy for you. Do what you have to do." Lighting the mood she continued, "but make sure you at least come back for the wedding. Just in case you've forgotten it's on the 10th December, which is two weeks time!"

Sensing the tension no longer evident Jared was instantly at ease. "Hey! It's my own wedding! I'm marrying the woman I love do you think I'll really forget? Oh and Alin, I love you, you know that right? I just...I promise you, anything concerning the company will be solved and I would never drag it into our relationship again. And to tell you about the company was a big thing for me. I trust you and love you. Although you are friends with Haltor, anything concerning BankSafe is in his interest, if he knows the company is not doing well, he is set to gain a lot from it, so please do not tell him a word about what I just told you, otherwise it would be disastrous." 

"Of course, I won't tell him anything. I don't mix business with pleasure! That's what you taught me! Oh and Jared...I love you too, I would never do anything to hurt you."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"I assume now that BankSafe is practically fucked up and HTU is set to gain the most, I should get a well deserved cut from it right, John?"

John smiled, everyone was the same. Money could make anyone do anything, including Jared Valentine's so-called 'most trusted assistant.' 

"Charles, of course I'll reward you handsomely. I'm just thinking when would be the best time to leak this information out to the media. Anyone else know about this scandal?"

"The board and also Jared have confided in me that he told Alin. As for when to leak the information...I know it would be best to do it before the wedding. Besides you don't want to see another man walking down the aisle with the woman you want, right?"

He was clever, John thought, or was he so transparent that the whole world knew he had a thing for Alin? "Charles, the money will be deposited to your account by Monday."

John had lost out on the E-Bid.com contract, and it was highly publicized that he had yet again lost to Jared. It wasn't that the $5billion contract meant a lot to him. It was more than money, it was a matter of status and power. Fact of life was, if you win status then power would come your way. Now, Jared was about to realize what losing really meant. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It was a week till their wedding and Alin was beyond excited. Maybe they did have their differences, but she thought love would overcome everything. Hallie was now nearly eight months pregnant and Alin couldn't wait to become a godmother. In fact she couldn't wait to have children of her own with Jared, though she would prefer if she finished her studies first. The wedding plans were all finalized and everything was in place, although Alin knew Jared was upset that his childhood friend might not be able to make it due to business plans in Europe. She was so happy that Jared would be back in New York tomorrow, though he did say he was holed up in the office the whole day, so he will see her the day after. Never-the-less she was on cloud nine constantly, until a phone call changed everything...

"I've been fucking your boyfriend for the past nine months, no actually your fiance. It teaches you a lesson not to steal other people's boyfriends, doesn't it?"

Picking up her cell phone she didn't expect to be ranted at on a Monday night. "Umm...I'm sorry I think you have the wrong number."

"Are you Alin Fanning?"

"Yes..."

"Then I'm fucking talking to you, you whore."

Surprised at the harsh words, Alin replied calmly, "I don't know how you got my number, and I don't care who you are." 

She was about to hang up when her next words really hit her hard.

"Have you realized Jared has hardly called you over the last nine months? Do you even realize why a man like Jared wouldn't push you to have sex with him? Do you realize who I am? I'm Faye Morlan his fucking ex girlfriend. Ask yourself these questions: Do you really think a man like him can go without sex for nine fucking months? Do you really think he can actually wait for your little stupid virginity pledge? All this time he's been fucking me behind your back. I'm every guy's dream, do you really blame him for cheating? Your just some stupid college girl, he can fuck around until he gets bored."

Before Alin could reply, Faye laughed harshly and stated, "If you don't believe me ask him tomorrow. He's back in New York tomorrow, so that should clear the air right?" And with that she had hung up. 

After the call had ended, Alin held the phone in her hand and stared into space. A million questions raced through her head, could this woman say those words just so she could sabotage her happiness? Alin wasn't so irrational that she would just listen to one-side of the story, but every word Faye had uttered seemed to fit every piece of the jigsaw. Jared had always called briefly, was he really that busy? Alin knew Faye was right, her life was glamorous, in fact she was the definition of glamour, why would Jared choose someone like her? Regardless, to clear any misunderstandings, Alin knew she had to see Jared tomorrow to confront him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared had purposely told Alin not to see him today. He had switched his phone off as it was a hectic day likely to consist of board meetings and more board meetings. The only saving grace was he can finally see Alin tomorrow. 

Alin had called Jared's cell the whole morning and afternoon, but it was switched off. She then called the office and was told he was in meetings till 6pm. She decided she would go to his office and talk there.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It has just gone 7:30 and Jared was beyond tired, the meetings didn't go as well as he had planned and he was about to explode. He decided to stay in the office to clear his head but it was in actuality worst. He was about to leave this shit behind when a faint knock on the door shook him from his thoughts. 

"Mr. Valentine, Miss Morlan is here to see you. I know you said you didn't want to see anyone today but she was really insistent-"

"It's okay, send her in." he sighed. What the hell was Faye doing here? "Gina, you don't have to stay, everyone has gone home and so should you. I'll see you Monday morning."

She smiled, perking up at the prospect of going home, "Thanks Mr. Valentine. Have a good night. I will tell Miss Morlan to come in now."

Jared was massaging his temples, when the sound of her voice filled his ears. Funny how nine months ago she sounded alluring, now she was fucking annoying.

"Jared...how are you? I've missed you." She closed the door behind her and proceeded to sit on his lap. 

"Faye what the fuck do you think you're doing?" he stood up quickly.

"Jared...god, I've missed you. Give me another chance. No, give us another chance. I don't care if you want another girl, hell I don't care if you want to marry her. I'll be happy if I can just be with you. I'll always be your naughty little slut. You liked that right?"

Now he was fucking annoyed. Jared knew he was starting to sound like a broken record, but it had to be said. "Faye, I'm getting married soon. What you and I had nine months ago was sex. You knew what you were getting into, and you specifically knew it wasn't a long term thing-"

"But Jared I want it to be long term. We are good together!" Faye cried desperately.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin had arrived at the BankSafe headquarters and it seemed the majority of the people had gone home. She knew Jared was probably still at the office as he always took his work really seriously, she smiled at the thought, knowing that all her worries concerning Faye was probably all for nothing. Alin rode up the escalator, all thoughts of Faye out of her head, as she awaited the surprise on Jared's face.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*




Not What It Seems Ch. 05



"I understand, but really I want you to know I love you." she tried to sound as sincere as possible. Faye knew she probably did love Jared to a certain extent, but it was money she loved more. "But before we say goodbye can you at least hold me like you used to? Please?"

Jared knew she was playing some sort of game, hoping that with the intimate and physical contact it would somehow flare his desire, leading to him bending her over the desk and fucking her. Whatever, anything just so she will shut up and get the fuck out of his office. 

He embraced her, as Faye sobbed. Jared knew she was definitely crying over the fact that she had lost a billionaire 'boyfriend.' 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin skipped happily to the office, noticing the lights for the whole of the upper headquarters were still on. This was a sure indication he was still here. She now literally ran to the office, it had been too long since she had seen him. 

Before she reached for the door, the sight in front of her confirmed everything she needed to know. He was stroking her hair as he tenderly held her, whispering in her ear. Alin knew no explanation was needed. She wanted to go into the office and demand to know what was going on. But what use was that? It would be worse if Jared told her face to face he no longer wanted her. 

Nine months, he had lied to her for nine months, telling her how much he loved her. Alin backed away from the office and ran away. Anywhere, as long as it was far away from Jared. Frantically she dialed for Hallie, but her phone was engaged. Then she tried the one person she knew Jared hated. It would make her feel slightly better knowing what she did would piss him off. 

As she waited for the dial tone, it finally hit what Jared had done. Tears of hurt, anger, frustration, disappointment consumed her. Was every man the same? Would she be fated to walk down the same road as her mother? 

"Hello"

"John...I...please can you pick *hiccup* me up" Her words were unclear and she was constantly hiccuping.

John didn't want to pick up the phone seeing as he was so worn out from the session he just had with the cute blond currently fast asleep in his arm. But it wouldn't stop ringing, when he looked at the caller ID, he realized it must be important, "Alin? Is that you? What's wrong?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Faye had done a good job. After he had picked Alin up and taken her to his apartment she had told him everything she witnessed. Everything was going to be his.

"Charles, I need you to do one more thing for me. Contact the NYC Daily Post and every major magazine you can think of, and tell them Alin Fanning the fiance of JARED FUCKING VALENTINE is in my apartment."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

NYC Daily Post: "Love triangle! A week before the most anticipated wedding: The lives of Alin Fanning, IT bachelor Jared Valentine and John Haltor revealed!

"Alin, what the fuck? Why did you visit Haltor late at night?" Jared was furious when he saw the report. She had come out of his apartment, indicating she had stayed the night. 

"Jared, it's over. Faye Morlan, Your so-called ex-girlfriend told me about your relationship. No, don't explain, I saw her at your office yesterday."

"Alin it's not what you think-"The line was dead. 

Again and again he tried calling her, leaving voice mails on her phone constantly. However his calls stopped the next day when he realized what she had done. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Jared, people are selling our shares, the value is dropping dramatically, within a few hours they will be worth nothing, if we don't issue a statement ASAP!"

He was in deep shit. The scandal concerning the two executives were leaked out, E-BID.com canceled the contract and had demanded compensation since they had also been dragged into the scandal. The compensation was likely to be over $15million. 

"...I would never do anything to hurt you."

But she did. She had betrayed him. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*



Not What It Seems Ch. 06



Hi!

I'm seriously sorry for not posting this ASAP. As a reader myself, I know how much it kills to wait for a story to be updated.

However, I did say I was away for a month and internet access was pretty limited so there was no way in hell I could have posted this.

If anything, I had the best time whilst away, no it was AMAZING, but I never stopped writing, even borrowing my roommate's laptop just so I could write. That is dedication, right? 

Special thanks to my editor Jim, who has been amazingly supportive throughout and just...I don't know, maybe every synonyms to amazing :) His suggestions have helped shape this up ALOT :)

I have exams coming up and other commitments, so chapter 7 will not be up as quick as I would like- but I promise I would definitely try my best :)

Anyway I hope you won't be disappointed with this chapter, feel free to vote and comment, tell me what you think etc etc. 

Enjoy :)

Ascii

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

March 2010

NYC Daily Post: 'You never forget your first love...Alin Fanning "visits" Jared Valentine's suite late at night! John Haltor, nowhere to be seen!'

"Breaking news! At *Gossip First* we can exclusively confirm that Alin Fanny, daughter of the late Anne Serano and entrepreneur Timothy Fanning have stayed the night at THE BACHELOR Jared Valentine's suite the night of the Charity Auction Ball! They were seen dancing IN FRONT of her fiancé John Haltor, the heir to the MASSIVE HALTOR CORPORATION! After the dance she left quickly, well as we now know she went to reunite with her ex-fiancé, Jared Valentine! 

To make matters worse, the next morning she was seen with the necklace Jared had bid for $1Million at the auction!! Complications? Yes? Don't worry we are pretty much lost ourselves. Just keep up with us to get the latest on this troubled love-triangle! Well some girls can have the best of both worlds I guess! As for JOHN HALTOR, all I can say is form an orderly queue girls!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Charles was worried, very worried. 

Now that Jared was back with Alin, Charles knew Jared would definitely confront Alin about the E-BID contract. Although it was his words against hers, there just might be a possibility he would believe Alin.

"Jared, I'm not saying this as your employee, but a friend. Just be careful, you can never trust a person who's betrayed you once."

Jared was taken aback, never has Charles delved into his personal life, it just didn't seem like him at all. Never-the-less he knew Charles was saying the words in his best interest. 

He nodded his head, "Charles, I appreciate your concern."

Charles was relieved. He knew Jared was considering his words and that it would certainly sway his judgment. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

She hated Jared.

It had been a week since she had seen him and media attention had still not died down, if anything it had gotten worst. 

After he left her apartment, she sat there, contemplating everything that had happened. She wanted so badly to explain herself, tell him she would never betray him, though what use was that? Not only would he not believe her, it would ultimately make her look desperate and cheap. He already treated her like a whore, and explaining herself would mean she cared about what he thought of her. She didn't, right?

He was calculating and manipulative, and she couldn't believe she actually loved him. All these years in the back of her mind, she had sub-consciously compared John to him, yet all this time, he was no better than her heartless father. She vowed she would never forgive him for how he treated her. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Alin, what is going on?!"

John was furious. The news was plastered over every single channel, newspaper, magazines and to top it all off it was the topic of everyone's conversation. Five years ago when Alin left Jared, he was on top of the world, now he was humiliated and a fucking loser. John didn't think it was true, yeah there were pictures but Valentine wasn't the only one staying in that hotel, maybe she went to visit an old friend or whatever. He wanted to believe it wasn't true, she loved him right? Why would anyone leave him for Valentine?

"Alin answer me!" The silence on the other end was killing him. Why the fuck was she not denying it.

"John...I'm sorry." She softly said her words; as if the words were a heavy rock she had to lift. 

Wedged between anger, humiliation, and hurt, John wanted to shout at her call her every curse words he could, but he couldn't, he loved her. Even if she did sleep with Jared, John would take her back. 

Take her back, fuck her and demean her. John thought darkly. No one fucks with him, vengeance was his thing. He would wait for the day till she came back to him. He didn't wait five years for nothing.

"Alin, I love you."

"John... please don't say that. I don't deserve you."

"Where does this leave us?" 

"John...Goodbye." 

John smashed the phone against the wall. If Jared Valentine wanted to fuck with him, John would play this shit a hundred times dirtier than him. As for Alin, if she ever came back he would fuck the shit out of her, until she fucking passed out. No one ever makes a fool out of him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Are you fucking stupid? How are you supposed to pay the debt?"

When the reports had come out, Timothy Fanning literally felt sick. If Alin broke up with John, who would pay the debt? Not that he cared about her or anything, but he was worried that if she fell behind on payment, those people would come for him. True, she was the person liable for the debt, but the thing was since he was her father, they might just come knocking on his door. 

Alin was beyond furious. How could a man like him be her father? Her life was in turmoil, she was receiving a lot of scrutiny from the press, labeling her heartless and ungrateful. She was constantly followed by paparazzi and getting calls from reporters while at work, asking about her relationship with Jared, everything was a mess, and yet all her father cared about was himself.

"A) it's YOUR debt, B) yeah maybe I am stupid, stupid enough to trust you! And C) DO NOT call me again." She slammed the phone down. If it wasn't for her father she would never had to see Jared again! Her childhood, innocence and even happiness were robbed from her by the men that should have protected her.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

'...you can never trust a person who's betrayed you once.'

Fuck it, how could he forget? Jared didn't want any feelings for this woman. Wasn't he able to always fuck a woman without love? How could he love her? She might not have slept with John, but she was still a bitch who would do anything for money. His life was nearly ruined because of her! BankSafe had to pay an out-of-court settlement to EBID for $30million, nearly crippling the company. If it wasn't for his contacts and his good relationship with the illegal firms, they wouldn't have lent him the money to rebuild his company. 

As Jared knew Charles never questioned his personal life, now that he took a sudden interest, it must mean that he too, thought Alin was not trustworthy. It was better when a third person told you his unbiased view, Jared thought. He was so glad Charles reminded him of Alin's intention. Well he was his trusted assistant; why else should Jared not trust him?

It was good that work was making him so pre-occupied otherwise he would be tempted to go see her. Though news came out that the engagement between Alin and John was off, nothing was confirmed between the two parties, everything was just a speculation. He had been chased by reporters and paparazzi demanding to know if it was true, he had remained quiet -- action spoke louder than words

"...you will never have me anyway other way than sex. I hate you...and I wish I had never known you." 

He had thought about those words in the last few days. He was not sorry for treating her the way he had. Why? Because he was honestly glad she knew the boundaries. After the Cullen's anniversary the whole world would know she was HIS property.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Ryan had been so busy since the Alin-Jared scandal. His company had gained a lot of publicity from it, with sudden media interest and new clients phoning in. He didn't want to admit it but he was guiltily happy, though sad that the people he cared for the most had to be dragged into this shit. Most importantly though, he was glad with the extra workload Alin never had time to think of Jared. 

He still didn't know why Alin and Jared got back together. The last time he saw them, they were ready to rip each other apart. Obviously he was ecstatic that they were back together. In fact, he had waited five years for this day to happen! Unfortunately, being best friends with Jared since childhood and knowing Alin for five years meant that he knew what was going on inside their relationship and it was definitely not how he pictured it.

Today was the so called event of the year, the Cullen's anniversary, where practically everyone from 'high society' was invited. Ryan, Hallie and Alin though invited every year, never attended the event, so the sudden appearance of Alin was bound to cause quite a stir. Although Jared had expected her to attend, he hadn't contacted her in a week. She was so relieved until Ryan came strolling into her office with a package in his hand. 

"Hey A, you've got a parcel."

She was busy at work with her assistant Sophie planning her schedule for the coming week. Spotting the package, Sophie immediately knew it contained something good.

"OMG Alin! Can I open it? This is definitely from PRADA!! Yep, definitely the one on Madison Avenue!! They are the only one to use this packaging!" Opening the box excitedly she picked up the dress and draped it across herself. "Why is this world so unfair? OH MY GOD the dress is amazing Alin, I hate you!"

The white dress was simple yet stunning. It was a Grecian style dress with a deep V-neck, leaving very little to the imagination. Sophie had told her the dress was likely to be exclusive, seeing as it wasn't featured on the runway for this season or next season. With the dress accompanied a note on the bottom of the box, 'Wear this dress tonight with the necklace. I'll send someone to do your hair and make-up. I'll pick you up tonight at 8PM."

She hated everything. So now he was telling her what to wear, and to be at his beck and call. No matter how much the dress cost, it seemed his words about her being a high class whore were true. Yes, being with him meant she wore designer dresses, lived a lavish style, but underneath everything, it was a transaction that she was using her body to pay. 

Sophie had asked to try on the dress and skipped out of the room, dress in her hand excitedly. 

The room turned to an awkward silence once Sophie exited the room. Ryan shifted uncomfortably before he finally turned his attention to Alin, "A...I've never had the chance to explain to you, but, Jared and I were friends for a long time-"

"I know. Hallie told me, do you really think she would keep it from me? Ryan, I'm not angry. I understand why you didn't tell me, don't worry about it" she smiled, hoping her words would make him stop beating himself up for the situation he was forced into. 

"I knew you would be forgiving!" Sensing the tension no longer evident, Ryan decided it was now or never, he had to broach the subject, "Alin, maybe I'm wrong, but I know your relationship with Jared is not going well...he can be an arrogant bastard sometimes, but he cares a lot about you-"

She hesitated, "Ryan, I- it's really complicated between Jared and I." 

He wanted so badly to press on, but Sophie had come rushing in and eagerly showed off the dress, asking for Alin's opinion. Ryan knew Alin took this opportunity to divert the attention. However, he was determined not to see them hurting each other. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After an exhausting day at work, Alin finally returned to her apartment to get ready. She sat down on her bed gently and opened the box Jared had sent over. Standing up now, she took the dress out and draped the dress across herself in front of the mirror. She refused to admit it, but it made her smile that Jared somehow knew the color and size of the dress would suit her.

She shook her head. No, he probably did the same with numerous women, so of course he was going to be damn experienced in dressing his whores.

A loud knock on her door shook her from her thoughts. It was only 6:30pm, so she knew it couldn't be Jared, she went to open it and was greeted by two friendly looking girls.

"Hi Miss Fanning! I'm Kim and she's Jodie. Mr Valentine sent us here to help you prepare."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Looking in the mirror, Alin never felt so beautiful before. The dress was revealing, with a deep v-neck, showing off her full breasts, while her hair was curled and loosely tied. Her make-up contrasted with her white dress, the red lipstick gave her a seductive twist.

"Miss Fanning, I promise you will definitely be everyone's centre of attention and...Mr Valentine would definitely not be able to keep his hands off you!"

Alin blushed, "Thanks! It wasn't really me, you guys did a great job." 

Her happiness was short-lived when a prompt knock at the door told her it was 8pm and Jared was here. Jodie and Kim went to open the door and also to pack up. Alin stayed in her room, refusing to go out and greet him. If he wanted her, he should come in. She perched herself on her bed, laid down, and closed her eyes, while outside of the room it remained strangely quiet.

Exhaustion consumed her. Work was hectic, but her sleepless nights were due to her mind constantly drifting back to Jared. She couldn't sleep at night, as she imagined his hands on her. Then, her frustration and guilt would kick in at the horror of craving his touch, while he was probably sleeping with other women on a daily basis!

Upon entering her apartment, Jared had greeted Kim and Jodie briefly and then went straight to Alin's room. When he got there, the sight nearly undid him: she was lying down on the bed, eyes closed with the deep-v neck of the white dress exposing her generous curves, her breathing was even, which made her breasts rise up then down... it made him smile, he had seen everything underneath that dress, but still it excited him. 

Everything underneath belonged to him, no other man would ever touch her apart from him. He snapped out of that thought when he realised she wasn't wearing that necklace. 

"Did I not tell you to wear the necklace?" his stern voice shook her from her slumber.

She sat up and glared at him, "I. Don't. Want. To. Wear. It." 

Jared smiled, he wasn't angry but ...he was almost laughing at her, "Alin, I thought I made it clear you FOLLOW my rules. If you forgot, I'll tell you one more time. If I tell you to do something you do it. If I tell you to lie on your back so I can fuck you, you do it. Understand?" 

She got up from the bed, refusing to acknowledge him. 

Suddenly he grabbed hold of her wrist and with his other hand squeezed painfully on her jaw so that she was looking at him, "Alin, I asked you if you understood, when I ask you something you answer me." 

Staring back at him with pure hatred and disgust, she uttered angrily, "I understand."

He let go of her as he saw her hatred towards him. He didn't want to treat her like shit, but every time he was near her, he desperately wanted to put her in place, control her. Each time he saw the flicker of pain he wanted to stop, but the satisfaction of seeing her listen to him obediently always outweighed the fact that he was hurting her. 

Before he could collect his thoughts, Alin had sat down on the stool in front of the vanity table to put the necklace on. She refused to look in the mirror, knowing that he was looking at her intently. She opened the box and before she could pick up the necklace, Jared gently brushed her hand away and picked it up instead. 

He didn't immediately put it on her, instead he came closer to her from behind, hooking one of his arms around her waist, and nipped at her ear. Alin tried hard to push him away, but he was much stronger. Jared started to trail kisses along her jaw line, "You look beautiful tonight." His voice was soft and seductive, "I've been thinking of you for five days...how wet you were when I fucked you." 

Alin couldn't help but moan, his words plus his light kisses on the column of her neck was driving her crazy. He removed his other arm from her waist and reached up to wrap the necklace around her neck, while still sucking the tender spot on her neck. Leaving the spot abruptly, he clasped the necklace on, while stroking the slightly bruised mark he left on her. 

His hands continued to linger everywhere, while his gaze remained on the mirror watching her from behind. The look he gave her made her feel strangely excited, like he was undressing her with his eyes. His kisses alongside his hungry gaze made her wet. She could feel it seeping. Alin hated how he manipulated her, one minute he was cold hearted, then suddenly he would switch back to being so charming. 

"We are going to be late." He smiled at the fact that she wanted him, he wasn't going to give it to her....yet. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

NYC Daily Post: "It might be the 'Golden Couple's' anniversary, though it's Jared's Valentines and Alin Fanning's appearance that is set to upstage the Cullen's." 

When they reached the Cullen's outrageously big and expensive mansion, a host of paparazzi and reporters were already at the front. Even through the blacked out window, cameras were already flashing and photographers were screaming for celebrities to give them a pose. Staring at the scene before her from the blacked out window, Alin frantically turned to Jared, "I can't do this-"

He slid closer to her, and whispered, "Show the world what being Jared Valentine's girlfriend is really like."

Jared held her hand as they exited the car, the media was in frenzy with photographers snapping shots recklessly and paparazzi hurling questions at them.

"Jared, is it true she stayed the night with you?

"John is not here, is he purposefully avoiding you?"

"Alin, what happened between you and John?"

"Alin, you never attend these events- why the sudden change?"

"Alin, Alin, Alin..."

Jared remained composed, while everything was giving Alin a headache. She hated Jared for putting her in a situation he knew she couldn't stand. Before going into the mansion he paused for photos, while paparazzi continued to throw questions at them. He decided to put on a little show. Sliding his hand possessively along her back, he curved his arm around her waist and pulled her in closer, while his lips gently touched her earlobe. 

Alin grudgingly craved the way he was teasing her, yet she hated the way he was putting on a show for the world to see. They weren't even in love, yet Jared was so good at fooling everyone around him, Alin hated the way he controlled the situation so perfectly, and always managed to play out the way he wanted it to. He did it five years ago, trying to bind her with marriage and dictate her life. She looked at him and knew the happiness in his eyes was because he thought he could dominate and manipulate her the way he wanted. He was wrong, she despised him!

Feeling content and happiness was not what he should have felt, but right now everything around him didn't matter, didn't even exist. He imagined Alin embracing him back, without him initiating or even forcing her to. It was strange but he knew he was genuinely happy, and right now he wanted to take her home and make love to her until they passed out from love, passion and devotion to each other...wait! What the fuck? No he didn't feel like that! Yeah, he wanted to fuck her, the dress she was wearing was giving him a fucking semi, but he didn't love her. Fuck no. 




Not What It Seems Ch. 06



Now dropping his grip on her waist, he held her hand and went inside the mansion, with the flashes and shouting from the paparazzi behind them.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After his split with Alin, Jared had avoided every social event. Aside from wanting to humiliate Alin and Haltor, his second reason for coming to the Cullen's anniversary was to reconnect with his business associates and contacts, so there were many occasion when Jared was forced into deep discussions with other business associates. 

However, whenever he attended these events, being a millionaire bachelor, meant that many of his business associates were forever trying to set him and their daughters up. He was never interested nor remotely attracted to any of them. Still politeness meant he had to endure their efforts of trying to seduce him or endless boring conversations. He was currently listening to Amy or whatever the fuck her name was talk about some boring shit. 

"Jared, god I haven't seen you since ages, you know..."

Jared had noticed that Alin was no longer by his side. He understood that this might have been boring as fuck for her, but still she could have fucking told him she wanted to go somewhere else. 

He scanned the room to see where the fuck she was.

"...and I've got a new apartment near your pent house. You've missed my housewarming, you know maybe you can come round my house and I can, you know show you round..."

Finally he saw her.

Fuck! There he was feeling a tiny bit guilty for bringing her here, knowing that she hated it, then leaving her on her own. But fuck no. She was fucking enjoying herself,

She was center of attention of every fucking male in the room. She looked so happy, smiling adoringly at the other men, possibly flirting back! To make matters worse, there were always a string of men begging for her attention. It infuriated him that every time he left her side some fucking bastards would talk to her, occasionally brushing their hands against hers, or asking for a dance, where they touched her intimately. He was angry, she belonged to him!

"...Jared, Jared...are you even listening to me-" 

"Sorry, you were saying?" 

He composed himself. Fuck he would never let anyone see how much this bitch could affect him. Jared continued to pretend to pay attention to Amy's pathetic effort at seducing him, constantly touching him everywhere. After becoming totally apparent that her efforts were going nowhere she excused herself. 

"Jared, I can see why you and Alin, shall we say reconnected again?"

Jared turned to see James, one of his business partners looking at Alin slyly, while talking to him. 

"So tell me, why do you think we reconnected again?" He watched Alin naturally holding the attention of the men she was talking to, while they practically drooled over her.

James smiled, "She is...well with a body like that I can see why it's so hard for you to forget her. I admire you for getting her back, what a few weeks before she marries Haltor. I'm truly impressed." 

Jared knew every man in the room was eying her up. Who wouldn't? She was effortlessly sexy and surprisingly down-to-earth for someone who possessed such beauty and intelligence. Jared laughed at the fact inside, no she wasn't any of that, everything was an act for men to fall at her feet. It seemed she had succeeded, as he was the only one who could look past her facade.

The women in the room hated her, but every man in the room WANTED her. Right now, Alin was deep in conversation with one of 'New York's trust fund kids' and he was stroking her hand affectionately. 

Jared was burning with rage as he noticed Alin did not stop the kid from touching her or distant herself from him. "Jared, I must say if you don't keep an eye on her, she's bound to do a runner on you, those trust fund kids are preying on her-"

Jared was furious. So many years in business had taught Jared one of the most important things: don't show your real emotions. "They might all want her," he stated arrogantly, "but she belongs to me." He had enough. He specifically told her he didn't share, yet she was flirting with other men in front of him. Fuck, no one played him like that!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin was beyond furious when she arrived at the event. It was either receiving snide remarks from others about 'poor John', having to avoid gossips about her new relationship, listening to Jared talk business, or watching him flirt with other women IN FRONT of her. Half way through listening to Amy's blatant attempt at seducing him and no attempt on his part to stop it, she left him to clear her head. 

"Can I get you a drink?" 

Alin turned around to see a man in his late thirties smiling affectionately at her. 

She smiled back, "Thank you."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Soon, she realized her mistake. His friend decided to join them and now she was pretty much stuck between men boasting about how much they make on a daily basis and having to remain looking interested. She decided to carry on pretending to listen while looking around the room for Jared. 

She felt sick. He was now openly flirting back with Amy, while she continued to touch him affectionately. 

Alin was fuming! He was flirting with other women so openly. Well, she thought if he wanted to make a fool out of her and play these stupid games with her, she would outdo him. Alin started to forget about Jared and the woman, trying hard to concentrate on the people around her. 

After a few minutes of talking to Steven, Alin found he was the only genuinely nice person at the event. He was sweet and told her he had seen her work, giving her his business card, and asking if she could design his new headquarters! She was having such a good time in Steven's company when he suddenly stopped talking and looked past her. 

Alin turned to see an angry looking Jared. He approached them but didn't say anything to her, instead turning his attention to Steven, almost as if he was sizing him up.

He reached out to shake Steven's hand, gripping on it harder than necessary, "Jared Valentine." 

"Steven Daniels, nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too," Jared said without meaning it at all. "So how is it that I see you engaging in deep conversation with my girlfriend?" He watched her uncomfortable expression.

"Jared we were talking about-"

"Honey, I'm joking!" He nuzzled her neck, placing light kisses everywhere. 

Alin relaxed instantly. He had looked angry minutes earlier, almost as if he was mad at her talking to Steven.

"Alin, I think it's time to leave, we have some unfinished business to attend to." 

They abruptly left the Cullen's anniversary, after only staying for less than two hours, Jared was so fucking angry. He saw the way she was flirting with every man. Of course he would never show it...yet. 

He didn't say a word in the car. The journey was long and painful, Alin stayed facing away from him, looking out of the window.

The silence was killing her. There was a foreboding tension brewing in the air. She didn't know why he suddenly switched from being all nice and charming to being an irritable jerk.

They had been driving round for a while now. Alin knew they weren't going back to her apartment, nor his suite, she wasn't sure where, but it hit her, when they reached Times Square. His pent house...the house they were going to live in after they marry...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The elevator ride, remained quiet, the tension was building and building, almost to a breaking point. When they went inside the house, Alin had the urge to explore. Five years ago, Jared had put her in charge of the interior design and furnishing. It surprised her that he hadn't changed anything. 

A sudden wave of nostalgia hit her as she stood and looked out of the full length glass panel. She had stood at the exact same place when Jared had shown her around, she had been excited with how big the place was and how spectacular the view was, nothing has changed, the night view was even more beautiful, but it was memories that made her dread being back here.

Jared wanted her. Fuck it, just looking at her from the back, made his cock twitch, but he wanted to teach her a lesson for what she did tonight. 

Alin noticed Jared behind her, looking at her intently, from the reflection on the window, it wasn't clear but his gaze was almost predatory... she turned, and at that moment Jared pushed her against the glass window. 

"What are you doing?!" she screamed, he was using his body to trap her in, he looked at her hungrily.

"What the fuck am I doing? What did I say five days ago!?"

"I don't know-"

"I said, I don't fucking share, didn't I?" his voice suddenly switched to a softer tone, almost a whisper, but it was cold and dangerous. 

So he was angry! He was such a manipulating and possessive bastard, acting as if nothing was wrong but he was angry at the fact that she was talking to Steven. Now it was Alin's turn to be angry, so it was okay for him to talk to other women, yet when she did it, he automatically went crazy. She wouldn't accept his hypocrisy!

She tried in vain to push him, "What is wrong with you!? I was talking, not having sex with them! What about you? So it's okay for you to have girls and models throwing themselves at you, but I'm not allowed to talk-" 

He crushed his mouth against hers forcefully, silencing her. So she was talking to other men as a form of revenge? Or was she jealous? Jared didn't believe in the latter, didn't want to, she was a whore who craved attention, right? She continued to push his chest. After a few minutes of struggle, to her horror she was slowly giving in. His lips curved up into a smile, she was giving in and he knew she wouldn't stop. She couldn't. 

Jared ended the kiss, knowing full well she didn't want it to stop. He stepped back to admire her against the back drop of the night view. The white dress made her look innocent, though her full seductive red lips and the way the dress revealed half of her curves screamed the opposite. She had her eyes closed, almost as if she was memorizing his lips on her. Jared turned one of the chairs around and sat down. 

Alin opened her sultry eyes, struggling to comprehend the overwhelming desire and passion he ignited in her. He was sitting down, which should have made him less intimidating, but his posture and arrogance made him annoyingly tempting. He was staring at her hungrily.

"Strip...slowly." 

His words were a command and should have infuriated her...but it didn't, she bit her lip unintentionally, trying hard to contain a moan Hhis words combined with the way he looked at her, made her even more wet. 

"But- but the glass-"

"Baby, the windows are blacked out...no one is allowed to see this body apart from me..."

His words made it a relief, though she had never done this before- it was so embarrassing. She bit her lip nervously, "Jared, I don't know how to do it-" 

Fuck, Jared didn't know what to say, just words coming out of her mouth made him hard. He knew she was innocent when it came down to sex, but everything she says always seems to tease him. 

"Take off your dress... slowly unzip the side...and let it fall onto the floor."

His voice was gentle but unmistakably seductive. Alin brushed her hair to the side, then followed his command, unzipping her dress slowly, she noticed he was shifting in his chair and realized the effect she had on him! Alin decided to tease him further by clutching her curled hair with one hand while holding the zipped dress against herself with the other, then biting down on her lower lip, she looked at him flirtatiously, letting him know she was playing with him. As she saw his eyes shifting from desire to a full predatory glint, she let loose her grip on the dress and let it slide off her curves.

"Leave your panties and heels...take everything off --now." 

She stepped out of the white dress that was pooled at her feet, and took out the clip that was securing some of her hair. She shook her head, so that her long brown hair was loose, and had the 'just got out of bed' look. Jared was so turned on, not even bothering to hide his arousal, he wanted so badly to stroke his cock while watching her put on a little show for him, but he didn't want her to know how much control she had over him. She delicately lowered both straps of her bra, before reaching behind and unclasping it. Alin let it fall to the floor, and stood there in her heels, the necklace and her red lacy panties. 

His breath caught in his throat, he watched her standing in front of him, seductively with nothing but one more item of clothing that couldn't even conceal anything. The necklace was nestled between her breasts and her hair was curled and wild, making her look deviously sinful.

"Alin, baby come here." He beckoned her over the short distance. Everything about fighting him went out of her mind.

He pulled her onto his lap, letting her straddle him, while feeling his growing hardness. Jared could feel the heat and wetness from her pussy, as it left a damp spot on his trousers.

She parted her lips to elicit a moan and Jared took this chance to enter her mouth with his tongue. Alin was expecting Jared to be aggressive, but he was leisurely curling his tongue around hers, the sensations he created was making her pussy tingle, she started to grind herself against him, hoping to relieve the tension building. 

Jared used his finger to lightly stroke her inner thigh, then pushing her panties to the side, he softly traced his finger up and down her slit. Then he used two fingers to rub up and down either side of her clit, eliciting a loud moan from her. 

Alin was on fire. His tongue was mimicking what he was doing with his wicked fingers. He smiled, knowing he was giving her so much pleasure with just his fingers. His fingers became more urgent tracing up and down or rubbing circles on her clit, his kiss lingering with a subtle heat to it. The sensation, however was overwhelming and she started to respond even more urgently to the kiss.

Jared had other ideas, once he saw the urgency in her kiss, he pulled away but gently drew part of her lower lip with him punctuating the fact that no matter what, he was always in charge when it came to sex. 

Alin groaned when he pulled away from the kiss, she closed her eye at the lost sensation of his kiss, but relieved his fingers were still pleasuring her. The sensations were curling in her lower belly. She knew she was growing increasingly desperate, if he pulled away his fingers now she would definitely slap him for teasing her to the point of insanity...

He pulled his fingers away at that moment, as if he read her mind. Alin's eyes snapped open in anger, lust and frustration. His triumph smile was back, arrogantly indicating that he was in control, but before Alin could do anything, he drew his fingers to his lips and sucked on them, sucking her arousal off his fingers. He looked at her, watching her every expression, while sucking on his fingers and moaned, tasting her sweetness. 

After sucking off every last bit of her wetness on his finger, he used that finger to trace her nipple, feeling it harden underneath his touch, he bent his head down to lick her nipple, before sucking on it. Alin threw her head back and moaned, wreathing on his lap. 

"Jared- please, god stop teasing me!"

At her desperate pleas, he stood and she immediately wrapped her long legs around his waist He never once stopped sucking her delicious nipples. He was now painfully hard as he urgently carried her to his bedroom. 

Although he was so desperate, he still remained gentle, lowering her onto the bed as calmly as he could, he was about to strip himself naked as quickly as possible, when she sat up from the bed, brushed his hand away to undo the buttons for him, then moving to unbuckle his belt, pushing his pants and boxer briefs down together slowly. 

She looked up at him, and uttered the words that made him growl in a pool of lust, "Jared - I want to touch you...I want to taste you."

Before he could respond she darted her tongue out to lick the tip of his cock, using her hands to stroke his length. Jared was flushed with happiness at the fact she was initiating this without any trace of reluctance. She stopped licking his tip, but engulfed the head clumsily and sucked on it, then swirling her tongue around the tip again. He smiled at how innocent she was, yet how much that actually turned him on. 

This was her first time giving oral pleasure, she was already so good, Jared thought of how much he would like it if she practiced on him more often... Jared rolled his eyes at the powerful sensations, he was about to come, but he didn't want to end it now, instead he gently pushed her away and knelled on the bed. He tilted and bent his head to capture her lips for a kiss, while slowly lowering her on the bed again, she broke away from the kiss and looked at him with a renewed urgency, "Jared, please no more teasing, I need you-"

He didn't want to tease her anymore, he was teasing himself as well so he quickly rolled her panties down her legs, before throwing the drenched material onto the floor. She was naked save the necklace. He liked that this was the only thing she was wearing, because it truly marked her as his. 

Even with his painfully hard cock, Jared found he didn't want to rush this, he wanted to savor it. At that moment it was hard to distinguish whether this was lovemaking or sex. He knew it was crazy but watching her with other men made him so fucking jealous. He wanted her to scream his name in the throes of passion, he wanted her to remember that he is the only one who could give her so much pleasure. 

He entered her inch by inch, then pulling out and tracing his cock on her wetness, he heard her groan in frustration, 

"Alin...fuck" he groaned before thrusting into her, one swift movement. He heard her whimper in pain and pleasure. She was still so tight, and his invasion was sure to cause her discomfort. He stilled his movement letting her adjust. Jared felt her relaxing underneath him, he propped himself onto his elbows, so he could look at her expression when he made love to her. She had her eyes closed, her lips slightly parted as she moaned silently and her silky hair splayed all over his bed. This time was different from the previous time ; he didn't fuck her. His strokes were gentle and deep, sending chills down her spine as a familiar sensation started to build. 

Jared knew he was close, but still he refused to pound relentless into her, instead he lifted her up so that he could wrap his arms around her, before slowly thrusting in, he bent his head down and drew a nipple into his mouth sucking on it leisurely, before ascending his kisses upwards, until he landed on her lips. Jared licked her lip, seeking entrance into her moist mouth. Before long, Alin felt the building sensations boil over as she screamed her climax, muffled by his kiss. Feeling her spasm, he moved in and out of her, until her second contractions, threw him over the edge and he thrust one final time before coming deep inside her.

They were panting heavily, after a night of arguing, shameless teasing on both their parts and hot urgent lovemaking, they were exhausted. Jared rolled onto his side taking her with him, so that she was nestled into him. Sleep took both of them with his cock still inside her. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin awoke to the strong smell of coffee, touching the other side of the bed, she was alone. After last night, she didn't know how to proceed. They still hated each other, right? Well she knew she definitely did. 

Alin rose from the bed to look for her dress...she groaned it was outside! She didn't want to walk outside naked. Looking around, she found one of his discarded white shirts and slipped it on, opening the door slightly, she saw Jared, topless not that she was noticing or anything, sitting on a stool near the kitchen top, drinking and smoking, deep in thought. 




Not What It Seems Ch. 06



"Jared-"

He looked at her as she called his name softly, shyly, fuck she was a vision. Her hair was no longer styled, but seductively tousled and she was in his shirt, which barely covered her ass, fuck he was so hard. If it wasn't for a meeting he had to attend today, he would definitely take her against the wall, the kitchen top and christen every single room. He stumped out his cigarette and waited for her to carry on. 

God, Alin really hated him, he was staring at her with THAT look, and it made her feel so small. The worst thing was his habit of smoking, Alin hated that and he knew it, yet he was still doing it. You're not his girlfriend so why should you care? She reminded herself.

"Jared, I..." He was still staring at her, and now it turned into a hungry gaze.

"I have nothing to wear-" 

He laughed, "Why would you need clothes? The things we do don't require clothes, Alin."

Now she wanted to throw a toaster at him, or whatever she could find, did he expect to have her naked in his apartment, waiting for him to call her for sex?

"Jared, I have to go to work-" she bit out angrily.

"I like you in my shirt," he noticed the irritation in her expression, "but I'll send someone to bring clothes to you." He smiled and came close to her to kiss her tenderly on the lips, "I'm going now. You are moving here tonight." Before she could respond, he silenced her with a kiss.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

When Jared left, Alin felt confusion cloud her brain, what was happening? He had been so gentle last night. Did this mean he would no longer hurt her? She hoped it was true, though she knew if he started to be nice to her she would give in...and this she definitely didn't want.



Not What It Seems Ch. 07



Hi!

You have no idea how sorry I am for the wait. Though exams are out of the way, I've recently started a full time job, which means working about 40 hours a week for the summer. I literally have no life for a nineteen year old.

I want to thank you all for the messages and comments. Want to thank some readers for suggestions to chap6, it was very insightful, I was actually glad we were thinking along the same lines :) want to thank a reader who told me this story deserves to be published/made into a film. THAT definitely made my day. It was very nice of you, though I don't think this is good enough. 

Most importantly a big thank you to Jim.

Thanks for the support

Ascii 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It was after that night when he had made love to her in his pent house that made Jared realize he could no longer think of her as nothing more than his whore. He watched her innocent, sweet expression as she slept, the more he was with her, the more she snuggled into him at night made him want her more than his personal whore, he knew he was letting his guard down. 

He hated admitting even to himself, but he was jealous that night at the Cullen's anniversary when he had seen her with all those men fawning over her. He prided on being an important man who people feared, the realization that she was his weakness made him fearful. Nothing ever made him close to feeling fear. 

Though he told her she was moving in with him that morning he decided to wait. He decided to give her a surprise. Instead whenever he needed her he would take her to his presidential suite. 

They no longer went to his pent house. Alin knew this was his way of telling her she was his whore and didn't want her to confuse their relationship, and truthfully she didn't want him to. 

But it did hurt. 

The only thing they did well together was sex, because this was the only thing they did. After sex he would always leave without a backward glance.

In a few weeks time they had settled into a comfortable routine, so that whenever he needed sex he would go see her, which was exactly how Alin saw their current situation. 

Unbeknown to her, Jared had other ideas. He reminded himself it wasn't love so when he made his decisions he convinced himself it wasn't because he wanted her to be happy, but because he did it for himself. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Haltor paced up and down his office as he tried to control his temper. He hadn't shown much result lately and since his grandfather was close to being six feet deep, he really needed to up his game in order to get the inheritance. 

"You know how stupid I look? Do you have any idea what the fuck people been saying behind my back. I don't care I want that cunt to lose everything. WHATEVER it fucking takes! As for Alin, I want her back. I want everyone to know I NEVER lose!"

Yeah but you always do Charles thought. He really wanted to help Haltor, with the paycheck he gave, hell anyone wanted to, but it was getting increasingly risky now with Jared taking charge of the operations fully. 

If it wasn't his gambling addiction, Charles would never choose to contact Haltor again. 

"John, I want to help. But-"

"Don't say 'help' you're not helping me when I pay you for it. And don't fucking say you can't because-"

Now Charles was beyond furious. Just because these bastards have money they treat him like nothing more than a dog. 

"Look, five years ago if it weren't for me, would you have even come close to fucking up Jared and getting Alin? It was your fault you didn't manage to hold on to it all. Besides if it wasn't me who helped fuck up everything within the company after the failed E-bid contract, HTU would never be in the position it is in now. If it wasn't for me, your grandfather wouldn't even give you a second glance, now that old bastard gives all his shit to you instead of his other grandsons-"

"You fucking finished? As I recall, five years ago you came begging for my help." Mimicking his words John continued, "IF IT WEREN'T FOR ME, you would have been dead with your gambling debts. So are you in or you fucking out?"

Almost as if a whisper, Charles replied, "What do you want me to do?" Charles could feel the smug expression that must have appeared on Haltor's face.

"Update me with everything going on, any deals, any potential deals. I want his operations in China and Russia, so make sure you do the job I pay you for."

Charles was screwed. He knew Haltor meant business this time, and if he didn't deliver he would be screwed over. Although he was Jared's trusted aide, ever since the E-bid contract, Jared had become withdrawn, refusing to trust anyone, not even him. Jared was usually making decisions and plans the very last minute, so telling Haltor what Jared's next step would be was going to be difficult.

"At the moment all I know is about his potential partnership with Alexsander Petrov's to expand operations in Russia and he's discussing business plans to merge with the biggest e-commerce business in China owned by Tao Zhang."

Haltor laughed, "Why the fuck did you have to make that so difficult? See I scratch your back you scratch mine. Now I'll tell you one more time, if you do your job, then I'll pay you. Simple. I want you to get a meeting with Petrov and Zhang for me-"

"But-"

"No fucking but, you either shut the fuck up and do it, or I'll make personally make sure no one lends any money to you.

Charles sighed. His fate was sealed. He knew messing with Haltor was a fucking big mistake and assisting him in destroying Jared was the only way forward. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Jared ...please stop teasing me..."

"Mr. Valentine? Sir?"

Today's board meeting, Jared couldn't concentrate, and now? He had thought that he would be bored by now, but these past weeks he found he couldn't get enough of her. Never in his life had he needed anything, but now he found he was breaking his number one rule. 

Seriously this girl was driving him crazy. Even while discussing business with his two executives his mind still manages to wander off... now they were almost staring at him curiously. 

.

"Rita, you were saying?"

"Sir, I was saying six years ago when we expanded into the African region it was the hardest market to penetrate into. Though it took us a significantly long time to hit the target we thought we were going to hit, obviously it's now going from strength to strength. But unfortunately we've been losing market share in other regions. When we launched operations in China and Russia in 2006 it was a brief success, now that there's so much competition, I'm not sure if we should try and revive both regions at the same time."

Now concentration was definitely needed. E-commerce businesses were big business but competition was damn fierce. Jared pushed the image of Alin in nothing but her panties and stilettos away from his mind- for now, and tried his best to concentrate. 

Jared looked at the figures in front of him, "We had a loss in the African region in the beginning, a huge loss, and every analyst criticized our decision- now we're turning over $150million. Are you saying we can't do that with China and Russia? Tom suggestions."

Tom groaned inside. He was the global analyst at BankSafe and Jared always valued his opinion. Tom hated Rita for keeping her comments brief and vague, knowing that he had to fill in what she cleverly avoided to say.

"Mr. Valentine, I think the main concern is well, it's um, you know HTU. Ever since the African region has been met with huge success, they've launched operations there. As you know even though we're practically the market leader in the African region, HTU has recently tried targeting this market and are currently in talks with some of the biggest e-commerce businesses based in Africa. Also, I know that John Haltor-" Fuck! Tom stopped talking and mentally kicked himself for even mentioning this.

Jared hated this shit. HTU has become a strange taboo in the company. No one wanted to acknowledge it, unless it was absolutely necessary. Knowing that HTU was linked VERY strongly to their boss's personal life, no one wanted to mention it. 

Jared, looked at his watch and sighed in frustration, "Tom, do you really think I have time for this?" 

"I'm - I'm sorry Mr. Valentine. I- it's just been rumored that HTU recently planned to aggressively push us out of the China and Russia market, and publicity have been very negative for us since, well, the engagement between , um..Alin erm... I mean- Miss Fanning and John Haltor broke up."

Jared smiled, he knew Haltor would soon try and play games with him, but he underestimated that the bastard would bring business into it. Fuck, he couldn't compete with him when it came down to finance. Haltor Corporation was an affluent firm and no oversea corporation would turn down an offer to work with them, this was a disaster waiting to happen. 

It was hard to know what Haltor's next move was, it was inevitable he would try and overtake both the Chinese and Russian market, but how he was going to do it was another story. Fuck, this was more complex than he thought it was going to be, but still having Alin was worth losing a couple of millions.

He didn't want to think. It was giving him a fucking headache and besides he was late for dinner, "Rita, Tom it's getting late, we'll discuss this in the morning. Cancel all your appointments tomorrow; we need to hold an emergency board meeting."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The occasional phone call with Hallie had always ended abruptly, with her busy schedule, so Alin decided to meet up with Hallie and with Ryan coming in later. She had told Hallie about her relationship, though never in detail. She really did hate lying to her friend, but she knew it was for the best.

They were browsing the menu when Alin noticed the slightly bruised dots on her hand. It was blistered and looked extremely painful.

"Hallie, what's that on your hand?" 

Hallie immediately pulled her hand away guardedly.

She hesitated, "I-it's nothing..."

Alin looked concerned, "Are you crazy?! How can that be nothing?"

Hallie continued to hesitate, before she suddenly broke into a smile, "Okay fine, it's really stupid, that's why I didn't wanna tell you. Well, I was trying to make a romantic dinner, for our wedding anniversary, cooking Jack's favorite meal, there were so many things to do, so I was, you know multi-tasking," Hallie paused to take a sip from her drink while Alin continued to listen intently. "Well, knowing me, disaster struck. I was looking out for the steak, while lighting the candles, then bam! SUPER HOT wax dropped on my hand!"

Alin shook her head. The story didn't seem right. In fact it seemed almost ridiculously made up. Besides Hallie never minded telling her embarrassing stories and this one was nowhere near as bad as her other ones. Why is she so hesitant in telling her?

"Hallie, um your wedding anniversary was two weeks ago, I mean yeah the wax might be hot, but why would the mark still remain on your hand. The wounds look pretty recent to me. Also, you told me you guys went out for a meal-"

"Try dropping wax on your hand, it really hurts! And I think it looks recent because lately whenever I cook I always burn my hand, maybe that's why it's opened the wounds again. Anyway stop interrogating me; I need to catch up on, well you and Jared's, hmm shall I say business huh?"

Alin was not convinced. Everything just didn't add up. And the fact that Hallie wanted to change subject was strange, "Hallie is everything going okay with Jack?"

She looked at Alin with a 'are you serious' look, "I'm the happiest I've been in five years- not that I wasn't happy before, but I've just celebrated my sixth wedding anniversary with the man I love, why wouldn't I be happy?"

Hallie felt really guilty. She had never lied to her best friend before, but the situation required it. Alin didn't look convinced, but Hallie refused to let on anymore than needs be. Besides the wounds on her hands, she had deserved it....

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"...and then this little mischievous boy went to his grandma and begged his grandma for a new game station and the next day she brought it for him! God he's so bad, if she keeps spoiling him, I don't know what I'm gonna do!"

Arriving with Ryan, from afar, Jared could already see Hallie and Alin deep in conversation. Hallie was facing his direction, while Alin had her back to him. 

"Hallie, it's a good thing Jack's mom spoils him! I mean come on she's got so many grandsons and daughters, yet she still treats Alex like a little prince, you should be-"

"Hey Ryan! Jared I'm so glad you came as well! Thought you wouldn't make it on time!"

Alin was about to turn around, when she realized what her friend had done. She glared at Hallie, for putting her in this awkward situation. Then, she turned and muttered a brief hello. 

"Hi Hal, how have you been? I'm so glad you brought the kids with you."

"Of course, you said you wanted to see these little monkeys! Hey stop standing take a seat." Hallie said

"Hey Ryan." Alex paused and looked at Jared briefly then back at his mom before asking with a timid smile, "Mommy, who is he?" 

Jared smiled at the kid and extended his arm for a hand shake, "you must be Alex eh? My name is Jared." 

Alex shook his hand shyly, while Hallie said, "Alex, he's your godfather-"

"He is? So, if Jared is my godfather, and Alin is my godmother, does it mean like you and daddy, they are married?" Alex asked innocently.

Hallie and Ryan chuckled while Ryan patted Alex's head affectionately. Alin blushed furiously, while Jared remained strangely quiet. 

"Well...Alex, Jared and Alin aren't married, but they are girlfriend and boyfriend. I do hope they will marry soon though." Hallie said with a grin. 

Alin decided to quickly change the subject, before Hallie carried on. "Shall we order? Alex you must be hungry, what would you like hmm?" Alin opened the menu and started to look at it while suggesting food for Alex to try. She knew Jared was looking at her intently. God, after last night it was hard to concentrate on anything else.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Hallie, your kids are so adorable and smart, Jack must be so proud."

Ryan winced. It was hard to control his feelings when he was around Hallie. He never liked Jack, though he hated himself for wanting to destroy her happiness. 

She smiled at how far from the truth Jared was, still not wanting to ruin the mood, she nodded, "Jared, I've told you a million times, if you and Alin had kids, they would be smart as hell and certainly win every pageant contest."

He laughed, "Alin, what you say huh?

So now he was back to Mr. Charm. 

Alin sighed. It was hard to keep up with his ever-changing moods. It was like he was back to the Jared she met five years ago. It hurt knowing that he was so nice only because Hallie and Ryan were here.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After dinner everyone decided to head home, though Alex had other ideas. "Jared, come, please? I hardly get to see Alin and now that Ryan and YOU are here, it will be so much fun!" Alex pouted, and then whispered quietly so that his mom couldn't hear, "and it also means I get to stay up a bit longer! Please?"

Jared looked down and smiled at the child, who was currently hugging his legs with one arm and using his other to pull Ryan's jacket so that they both couldn't move. He was tired, and after finishing his meal he wanted nothing more than a good night's sleep, "Hey, Alex your mommy's gonna kill me it's getting pretty late, I know your bed time is 8 and its way past 10...so buddy no can do."

Alex continued to pout, but still refused to let go of his legs and Ryan's jacket. Looking at the kid made him so happy... he did wonder what his kids with Alin would be like. Jared shook the thought from his head. The father of Alin's children could never be him. They had too many bad memories and vengeance was still what he was seeking from her. Strangely though, the thought of some other man fathering her children made him possessive.

Ryan, who offered to hold Penny while Alin and Hallie was doing there catching up, always wondered if Jack was actually ever there for his children, he really couldn't help it but he knew if he ever had the chance to be with Hallie, he would definitely treat her children as if they were his own, because he was genuinely fond of her kids. 

He looked at the sleeping baby in his arm, his chest tightening. It was truly painful when you loved someone, yet you were the one watching at how happy that person was from afar, wanting to be in the picture, though knowing if you were, you would ruin everything. 

"Honey, come on, it's time to go home. Everyone's tired, maybe if you stop whining, they might take you out sometime." Hallie shouted from afar.

Jared pried the child's tight arms open and picked him up, Alex was still pouting refusing to look at anyone, his father never had time to play with him, so having other 'cooler' adults here apart from his mom always made him slightly excited.

Jared suddenly had an idea to cheer him up. It was evident the kid needed some form of fatherly love, even if Hallie didn't admit to it, it was obvious Jack was never really there for him. Turning to Ryan, Jared said, "Hey man you busy Sunday?"

"No, I don't think so, why?"

Turning back to Alex, Jared smile, "Buddy, listen how about Sunday. A little birdie told me that Adventure Land has just opened Mega Slide, the longest slide in the world and only cool kids who sleeps before 10 can go on it, what you say buddy, you wanna go?"

Alex instantly perked up, a huge grin on his face, "you mean if I go home with mommy now, you will take me next week?" 

"You're a smart lil kid aren't you? Of course, though I'll have to ask your mommy for permission."

Alin watched Jared with Alex. He was actually likeable when he was with kids. 

"I did say he would make a great father, didn't I?"

Alin blushed furiously, having been caught staring. 

Trying to divert the conversation Alin replied, "Not as good as Ryan, he is amazing. I just know he will treat his future girlfriend like a queen."

Hallie knew. It just makes her feel sad that that girl would never be her. Seeing Ryan hold Penny and playing with Alex made her wish he was their father. Regret was not something she wanted to feel about her marriage to Jack, because he had given her two amazing children, though it was hard to love someone who didn't treat her right.

"Alin, I really don't understand what's going on between you and Jared- you love him, he loves you, why do you two like making things complicated?"

Alin groaned, "Hallie we've been through this. I know, you think I'm the dictionary definition of frustration but it seriously is really complicated between us. The Jared you see right now, is not what you see behind closed doors. Sometimes...things are not what it seems."

The words suddenly made Hallie reflect, 'Sometimes...things are not what it seems,' how true this was in her case, staring at the blisters on her hand and hearing the faint laughter from Alex, she knew she had to accept the position she was in.

"Mommy, Mommy," Hallie's thoughts were interrupted by Alex who was running excitedly towards her, "Can I go please?"

"Honey, what are you talking about?"

Both men strolled over, smiling, "Hal, do you mind if I take Alex out to Adventure Land this Sunday?"

"Guys, you really don't have to-"

"Mommy!"

Jared watched Alex's puppy-eyed expression. "Hallie, please I promised him. It's not a chore I really would like to take him out if you'll allow me."

Hallie remained wary, "Hal seriously its cool, come along as well, you Alin, Jared and I, it'll be fun, besides we've never really spent time, just us four, so it'll be a catch up for us as well." Ryan interjected.




Not What It Seems Ch. 07



Hallie took Alex's hand and held on to it. "Guys, seriously...I don't know what to say! Thanks for this. " A yawning Alex indicated that it really was his bed time, "Seriously it's really cool of you to do this for him...I mean, Jack's always busy and- anyway just give me a shout when and I'll be there. It's getting late, I'm going to take this little monster home."

"It's been a long day for me, Alin and I'll be heading home as well."

Hallie turned to Alin and raised her eyebrows. SO her friend decided not to tell her that they've practically moved in together. God she was so going to kill her next time they were alone. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It surprised Alin as to why they weren't going to his suite. Instead of asking she remained quiet. The ride back was quiet but not uncomfortable. It had been an eventful day. Alin thought back to Hallie's blistered hand. It was really worrying, knowing Hallie was not opening up. Alin hated herself for being so consumed with her own messed up personal affairs in the past few years, that she had never realized an unspoken sadness in her best friend's eyes- until today. 

Her thoughts were interrupted when Jared's hand reached out to hold hers. His eyes remained on the road but he continued to stroke her hand tenderly, it was strange, but it felt like a silent moral support.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared held her hand as he opened the door to his penthouse. Alin immediately turned to him and gasped.

His work has always meant he never stayed in one place for long. The purchase of the pent house five years ago was meant to be for him and Alin, though after they broke up, he never once stayed in there, the memories pained him. The penthouse was close to finishing a week before they were due to marry, however he cancelled everything upon their bitter split.

After spending the night, he had planned to finish it for weeks, making sure everything was perfect, down to even the finest detail. He didn't know what made him want to carry on with how she wanted it nor did he know why he was so adamant in impressing her, though her current expression told him exactly why he had done it. 

He smiled, knowing that the ridiculous costs of the team he specifically hired had been worth it. He was worried that they wouldn't be able to meet her expectations, but they'd done a great job.

"Baby, you never quite finished the furnishing and designs five years ago, so I took the ideas you drew and got a team to finish it today. You like it?"

She let go of his hand and explored. The place was exactly how she wanted it, no in fact it was better than what she had planned. She twirled around innocently, like a child going to Disneyland for the first time, "Jared, I love it! It's brilliant..."

Seeing her so engrossed and happy made his heart swell. Alin ran excitedly to the bedroom, before he could muster a response. The one place she had failed to draw up an adequate plan for, she had improvised most of the interior designs for it, knowing that she wouldn't be able to finish it before the wedding. 

She opened the door and was greeted by rose scented candles- her favorite. The scented candles and soft flicker of lights was showing off the room in an understated way. She couldn't help the tears forming in her eyes. It was exactly how she wanted it but somehow failed to transfer the idea onto paper. Alin traced her finger on the bed railing, wardrobe, vanity and desk. Everything was so surreal; it seemed Jared had somehow pictured exactly where she wanted everything. She proceeded to the double floor length window, the curtains drawn up, she looked out into the bustling night. 

Her mind had a million thoughts running through it. Why was he so nice to her? Why did he do this for her? She wanted to tell herself he hadn't but the truth was, he could have turned this into a bachelor pad...but he hadn't. Most importantly he had kept the designs she drew. What was going on? Before her mind could wander any further, a spicy masculine scent mixed with the rose scented candles invaded her scenes, then a strong pair of arms wrapped around her waist. 

"So I take it you like the bedroom too?" he whispered affectionately.

She tilted her head to the side, so that he could trail gentle kisses down the column of her neck, something she liked- a lot. 

The window reflected them, which was strangely erotic, Alin could clearly see the desire in his facial expression, if his hard arousal wasn't an enough clear indication.

"Jared...I love it...thank you. It's exactly how I wanted it. I- I it's perfect...how I've always wanted it, in fact-"

He twirled her around so that she was facing him, "I-"

He placed his fingers on her lips, silencing her, "You know you're driving me crazy." Jared lowered his lips to gently kiss her, slowly seducing her with the kiss. He drew a soft moan from her. Her hands shyly reached up to slip into his hair. He slowly pulled away and gently dragged part of her lower lip with him. 

He brushed a loose strand of hair away from her face. Alin's eyes fluttered open to look up at him, the soft candle light creating a sensual and seductive setting. "Jared, why are you doing this for me-"

"Because seeing you smile makes me happy."

Alin was shocked, she didn't know how to respond, for the past few days he had treated her as if she was nothing but a whore...and now the words he uttered confused her.

Jared looked at her and wondered what feelings she was provoking in him. It was definitely more than lust, but he couldn't pinpoint what it was. He didn't know why, but he wanted to see her happy, he wanted her to enjoy being with him. 

He reached behind to pull the clip that was holding her hair in a bun, "whenever we're alone, I want to see your hair down." He lowered his lips so he could capture her lips for a kiss again. He lifted her up, her legs immediately wrapping around his waist as he held onto her.

Holding onto her back, he strolled towards their bed and laid her down gently, never leaving her lips. Jared unbuttoned her blouse one by one, and then tugging the tight jeans she was wearing down. 

Even in the faint light he could see the lacy white bra and panties she was wearing. He didn't know how many she owned, but it seemed she had an unlimited supply to drive him crazy. Lifting her upper body slightly, he slid his hand underneath so that he could undo her bra. Leaving her soft lips reluctantly, he kissed his way down, refusing to leave any exposed skin untouched. 

Alin closed her eyes as he gently nipped her inner thigh. She didn't know how long it's been but the sweet torture he was imposing on her felt like forever. "Jared, please..."

Jared traced his lips along her inner thigh, teasingly close to her core, "hmm?"

Alin's moans grew louder, while she squirmed in frustration, "Please...kiss me, Jared please."

He chuckled softly, "Alin, where would you like me to kiss you?"

She whimpered and blushed, not wanting to express it so clearly. Jared watched the faint blush creeping in as she refused to look at him, instead she grabbed a pillow to cover her face. 

"Hmm... how about here?" Jared brushed his lips against her breasts delicately, 

"N-no" 

"Okay...hmm how about here, he kissed her belly button, making her writhe and making her laugh softly." He took this chance to roll her panties down. Jared grinned at how aroused she clearly was.

"Jared, not here either!"

"I think it's definitely here then," 

He kissed her clit lightly, the wetness from her arousal already coating his lips. 

"Jared...Jared, please..." She was panting his name over and over, gently pushing the back of his head so that he would end this sweet agony. 

Without warning, he latched his mouth on her clit and sucked, until she was practically screaming his name in ecstasy, rewarding him with more of her juices.

He reached his hand up to toy with her nipples, rolling it around his fingers, the sensations coupled with him sucking on her clit, slowly built up the tension in her, threatening to consume her. 

"Jared...Jared...oh god I'm about to, I'm..."

"Alin, come for me..."

With his words, she felt the rising sensations building until she could no longer savor it. She let go, closing her eyes as waves and waves of orgasmic bliss crashed.

After a few seconds her breathing became less erratic. She opened her eyes and saw Jared with a seductive smile as he wiped the evident of her arousal off his face.

She blushed with immediate embarrassment.

Jared had never seen anything as satisfying and sexy as watching her come. He loved how cute and innocent she is, how she would still be flushed from the intimacy they had shared. 

Alin didn't know why, but at this point she wanted him desperately. She got up and kneeled on the foot of the bed and pulled him closer using his tie. Her bold actions were not something she was used to. She avoided his eye contact and fumbled with his buttons, her hands shaking slightly and her heart beating abnormally fast.

It was hard to get used to his gentleness. Alin was so used to his aggressive behavior towards her that she didn't know how to feel...

Jared suddenly covered his hands over hers, stopping her. She gazed up and was met by a warm smile.

He watched as her gaze locked with his. 

Her eyes glazed with yearning and desire, as her lips parted to whisper, "Jared, I...I want..."

Alin wanted to break eye contact, but found his eyes to be too mesmerizing to. She swallowed, unable to express a coherent sentence, "I want..."

The dim lights outlined her perfectly. She was perfect. Each time being with her, took Jared's breath away...he briefly wondered what he'll do when two years passed...and she no longer belonged to him. He pushed the thought out of his head knowing that it was only lust crowding out his judgments.

He cupped her face with both hands and kissed her forehead, "Alin, tell me..."

"I-I want... you" she whispered, gently bringing him down so that they were eye-level.

"Show me-"

Ever so slowly, Alin laid kisses on his jaw line. The tension in his facial expression was evident as he tried so hard not to relieve his rock hard cock by flipping her over and fucking her. 

Alin stripped him naked; never once leaving his lips, fearing if she did it would break some unspoken bond. 

Jared slowly lowered them both on the soft bed. Lying on top of her he resumed kissing her, his cock teasingly brushing at her wet entrance. 

Slowly he inched his cock into her, making Alin shudder at the powerful sensations. He left her lips but continued to rain kisses down the sensitive column of her neck. He collapsed onto her chest, rocking back and forth into her, creating a gentle passionate rhythm.

Alin's arm wrapped around him bringing him closer, somehow worried, if she let go, he would too. 

The candles started to burn out one by one, though the moon light still somewhat lit the room in a discreet way. Their bodies intertwined he continued to rock back and forth, the sensations building and building, a hidden promise of what was to come. It seemed like an eternity, but the pleasure they both experienced was beyond anything else. Rubbing his cheek against hers gently, Alin moaned softly at the tender touch. Jared knew at this point, whatever this strange feeling he felt with her he could never have with anyone else. 

Without warning, Alin felt the familiar sensations building, though this time it was even more powerful. Jared continued to use light strokes, each stroke drawing out intense pleasure for her as he held her close.

Feeling the pain and pleasure of her nails digging into his back, Jared knew Alin was close. He kissed her tenderly, matching his thrust, while watching her, as she instinctively wrapped her arms around him perhaps in fear as the strong sensations threatened to consume her very soul. 

"Jarrrr-ed", Alin whispered as she came apart in his arms. Feeling her powerful contractions gripping his cock so tightly, Jared wanted to hold back, wanted to savor every moment he had with her, though the pleasure of her tightness gripping him so insistently, he thrust one last time, before he emptied himself into her. 

He remained on top of her, catching his breath and gathering his senses. Suddenly it dawned on him that she must be pretty uncomfortable with his full weight on her. He lifted himself up and looked at her, suddenly his satisfied smile turned into fear. She had her eyes shut and was still. 

Jared panicked, terrified that he had hurt her; he rolled onto his side, gathering her in his arms. Then he heard her whisper something incoherent as she moaned softly, still with her eyes closed.

Now his satisfied smile was back, with a hint of egotism- she had passed out from the orgasm he gave her. 

Watching her marred expression return to a more peaceful state, Jared nestled her closer, and covered them with the blanket, so that she didn't catch a chill. He watched her, and noticed her lips pouting even in her sleep. She was so sexy yet so damn cute. 

He heard her sigh then nestled herself even closer into him. It suddenly made him realize he was letting her get closer to him, not just physically but emotionally.

It was hard to understand how he could let this girl come so close to undoing him- twice. Never in his life had he felt true happiness, and it made him wary that she could destroy it easily- like she had done so in the past. Jared no longer knew how to control his desires and feelings for her, but he knew no matter what he would take what was on offer now, because it was just pure sexual gratification.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin was woken up by a warm touch against her naked skin, running from her belly then finally cupping her breasts. Sighing she leaned her back even closer to his chest, while his hand reached from behind to play with her hardened nipples. 

She could feel his arousal from behind, which made her even wetter, though she was so exhausted she didn't know if she was ready for round three, after he woke her up twice in the night.

"Jared, wh-what time is it?"

He laughed softly, his warm breath fanning the sensitive skin on her neck, "why would you need to know the time? I don't intend to let you go today. You're staying here- naked."

Hearing her gasp, his laughter grew louder, before it turned into a frustrated sigh; she turned and faced him, hearing the change in his mood. 

"The time is for me to go to work. You're draining all my energy but I swear I would resume last night activities if I didn't have another damn meeting today-"

"B-but its Saturday, you still have to go in?" Alin tried to sound neutral and as uncaring as possible, but Jared could detect the disappointment in her voice. 

"I thought you needed rest. After last night, I didn't think you still want me...looks like I'm wrong..." he teased, chuckling as her face immediately reddened.

"N-no that's not what I meant, I just wondered why you have to go in on Saturday." She turned her gaze away from him so that she could conceal her disappointment, "For all I care you can stay there the whole day and I wouldn't even notice!" His hands snaked down to find her wetness, her words contradicting the juices seeping out from her pussy.

"Looks like you're lying."

"Jared-"

"Or maybe," he cut her off before she could think of an excuse, "you touch yourself while I'm gone, that's why you don't need me..."

Alin couldn't control the blush creeping in again, his words making her feel even more aroused. She pushed his wandering hand away from her body, sat up and glared at him, "I-I don't touch myself! I don't need to! AND most importantly I don't even like the stuff you do to me-"

He shifted so that both his arms were crossed against the headboard, his head resting against it. He looked at her as an arrogant, egotistical smirk slowly appeared on his face. If she wasn't a little guilty for being a shameless liar she would have ignored him and carried on. Truthfully though, they both knew she was lying, but she rather die than admit it. 

She hated the way he always thought she was somehow susceptible to him, instead of letting him believe it was true, she proceeded to get up, avoiding the way his warm body made her feel. 

It was too late.

Jared grabbed her wrist pulling her to him so that she collapsed onto his chest, without another word he captured his lips with hers slowly coaxing her, till she no longer thought of lying to him again. Breaking off the kiss, he traced his lips across her jaw and finally nibbling her ear. All thoughts of denial went out the window as the pleasurable tension gathered in her lower belly. 

"you know, when I think of you, I can't help but stroke myself, until I come..." Jared whispered hotly.

Alin slid her hands into his hair gently pulling him closer while his lips continued to trace behind her ear, "and I don't think there's anything sexier than watching you touch yourself until you come..."

She shuddered at the thought; his words making her want him even more.

"...though I'm afraid we can't have all play and no work, huh?"

Before Alin even registered what he had just said, he pulled away and got up. Suddenly feeling really self conscious, she held onto the sheets even closer to her chest.

Jared stared at his naked goddess. God he knew he would never tire of looking at her, especially in the morning after a night of immense pleasure. It just made him wonder how she genuinely didn't know how sexy she was. She was innocently beautiful, and he liked the fact that when she was deep in thought or even aroused she would bite her lower lip unknowingly- like now. 

She knew it was stupid knowing that their relationship was not a conventional one, based purely on sex. But for some strange reason it hurt that he would always leave after sex. She refused to look at him, because if she did, she knew she would give too much away.

Jared was confused over the shift in her mood- one minute she was so fucking turned on the next she looked almost hurt. 

He pulled on his shirt, buttoning it and watching every flicker of emotions going through her face. Then he quietly stated, "I don't know how long I'm gonna be, but I'll send someone to pick you up, take you to my office. Say ready for 4? We do a little shopping then dinner. How that sounds?"

Jared didn't fail to see the beautiful smile on her face as she looked up at him. He didn't know why but seeing that expression reminded him he never wanted to see her sad, because he truly wanted to make her happy, for as long as he could. He smiled back at her.

After vowing not to show her emotions so openly, Alin was so happy she couldn't help it. Trying to compose herself she replied casually, "That sounds cool, I'm just going to stay in and finish off a some work, you can pick me up at four." 

Jared chuckled at her reply, knowing that he had made her happy, but Alin stubbornly denying it.

He leaned forward, brushing a strand of her hair aside and pressed his lips to her forehead tenderly. Her eyes closed at the tender gesture, when he pulled away her eyes remained closed though Jared saw the small smile that had appeared.

He knew his day was going to go well even if he had to deal with the stress facing his company.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

He was so fucking wrong. 

Tom had told him first thing in the morning that Haltor was scheduled to have meetings with Alexsander Petrov's on Monday and his other potential business partner in China on Tuesday. This was a fucking disaster, knowing that at least one of them would jump at a chance to work with Haltor Corporation. This would mean a loss for BankSafe. A huge loss. 

Jared knew publicity for his company was pretty bad, affecting their share prices. News of the broken engagement has affected his business, entertainment news being treated business news and vice versa. Speculation about both companies had caused investors to lose confidence and Haltor Corporation being a more financially stable company, had caused many investors to lose confidence in BankSafe. 




Not What It Seems Ch. 07



"Tell me the damages being done, IF, and I mean if we don't get either contracts." Jared sighed his frustration. Haltor was a sneaky bastard, Jared didn't know how the hell he knew about his potential partnership with Alexsander Petrov and Tao Zhang. It was driving him crazy how Haltor knew so much about the company. Strangely Jared wanted to put the blame on Alin, it was still hard to trust her, though he shook the thought from his head knowing she knew nothing about these two potential deal. 

"We lose 13% of the market in Russia and 24% in China. Both of these are likely to cost us over $5billion in revenue. It would be almost like a domino effect; we lose these two markets and all other markets will be dominated by HTU." Tom added cautiously, "Jared, I'm just worried at the extent Haltor knows about our company. I mean I don't understand how he knows so much."

Jared considered Tom's words. It was true. It seemed Haltor was always one step ahead of them. "Listen Tom, I want you to find out about everyone who was in the meeting three weeks ago concerning the contracts and I don't care how you do it, but I want to know who is behind this shit."

The contracts had been on his mind the whole morning. He just didn't know how the fuck Haltor could know so much. It just seemed the disaster of five years ago was waiting to happen again. After discussing things over with Tom, Jared was convinced someone in the company had been trading company secrets with him. If he knew who it was, he would literally fuck them up. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin found herself humming happily all morning. Even finishing off some work on a Saturday didn't deter her lifted mood. 

Her day wasn't as productive as she had hoped, her mind constantly wandering off to things. Maybe it was wrong, but she found herself thinking about all the things he did to her, the way he made her feel. It was already nearing four, so when her phone rang, she excitedly picked it up without looking at the caller ID.

"Hey-"

"Alin"

She froze recognizing the voice instantly. 

"Alin, Alin you there?"

"Y-yes, John, I'm here-"

"I thought you hung up on me-" 

Alin felt guilty. She hated herself for putting him in this situation. Not only did she humiliate him, she now made it seem he was in the wrong. The sadness was evident in his voice.

"J-John, I would never do that." She whispered quietly.

He didn't' say anything for awhile, and Alin thought he had hung up, "John? Are you-"

"Alin, I miss you."

She took a sharp intake of breath, unable to respond to his confession. It made her feel even worst and guilty that these past weeks with Jared, though an emotional rollercoaster, made her feel more than she had with John for the past year. It was true that seventy percent of the time with Jared was spent arguing, but with John...she felt nothing. 

"John, please don't-"

John was not one to beg. After what she had done, he knew he no longer loved her, in fact his feelings toward her was battling between lust and hatred. It infuriated him that he wasn't her first. That thought had turned him on so much so he was looking forward to branding her as his. Now that she was no longer worth anything to him he just wanted to truly fuck her.

"Alin, see me on Monday-"

"John, I can't-"

"Please" he pleaded desperately.

"I-"

"See me as a friend for lunch, whatever you want to call it, just...I want to see you Alin. I care about you. Please...as friends?"

John held his breath waiting for an answer. He really needed her to say yes. 

"Okay" she whispered quietly before she could stop herself. She cared about John, yet she knew if Jared found out...

John was beyond relieved. "I'll pick you up at say 12 for lunch on Monday?"

"John I have one request, can you make sure we go somewhere quiet? You know because I- because..." She trailed off. 

"I understand. Alin you have no idea how happy I am. Thank you!"

After finalizing the plans they had bid their goodbyes. Alin was still very much confused over what she had just done. It was true she saw them as friends. Though seeing an ex-fiancé would definitely get people talking.

John was over the fucking moon. Not because he wanted to see her. Maybe a little but he wanted to stir shit up. He knew full well she was Jared's weakness so fucking up their relationship was bound to help him distract Jared in order for him to get the contracts. 



Not What It Seems Ch. 08



Hi there!

I can't believe it's been eight months. I never intended to leave it that long but when you have deadlines after deadlines of assignments... but this would have been longer than eight months if it weren't for the fact that I'd rather write this story than do research for work. I actually sat in front of my laptop two days before one of my assignments were due and wrote about six pages, so who said I was going to leave this hanging? ;)

I can't express how sorry I am for the wait, and I just want to thank readers who've favourite this story and sends me messages or comments, those little surprises makes me so happy. This goes especially to one reader who always keeps me in check and gives me ideas.

As always thanks to Jim, the best editor. Any mistakes found are totally my fault.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Three days earlier...

"Oh baby, that feels sooooo good, harder yessssssssss.

Charles pumped harder into her, throwing his head back, the sensation threatened to overcome him. He continued thrusting into her, the feeling of her tightness swallowing him. He was about to come...

When at the most crucial moment his phone started ringing.

"Baby, oh baby I'm about to, oh g-god switch that shit off."

Charles picked up his cell and was just about to switch it off when an unsaved number flashed up. A number he had memorized and could recite. A number that was associated with nothing good. He sighed.

"Baby, what's wrong? Switch it off!"

He groaned. He had chased after this blonde for months on end, and now he finally had her. He was so close to coming inside her. Charles pushed her off him, as his dick left her pussy he groaned in frustration. She instantly glared at him as she got up. This was getting tiring, if not a little stupid. He didn't know what power Haltor held, but it made him succumb to his demands like a bitch in heat. But he already knew the answer. Haltor was rich and powerful, he knew better than to not pick up and piss him off. He ignored the woman as she got up and pulled on a robe. He didn't fail to notice the pissed off look on her face and his raging throbbing erection.

He picked up the call and growled, "What?"

John laughed mockingly at hearing his tone, "you got any updates with the deals?"

Charles paused. What he knew was limited. "No, he's been keeping quiet about everything, though there's speculation he's flying out to Beijing and Moscow to discuss the contract. I know the contracts with Petrov are lukewarm, though Zhang seems pretty keen to work with him. Jared recently told me that Zhang was a good friend of his a few years back, so I think it would be a waste of time of you to chase after that contract."

"Good. Make sure you carry on keeping tabs and tell me immediately of changes. I need you to do one more thing for me."

Charles sighed. This didn't sound good.

"You see, I'm getting sick of reports on how happy they are. It's boring me and there's nothing I like more than entertainment."

He laughed, "I'm meeting up with Alin on Monday and I want you to hire a journalist, photographer or whatever the you want- and make sure they get the best intimate shot of us. I want it to be released in the most influential newspapers and magazine. People, USweekly. Fuck, even in playboy, New York Post, Vogue. Whatever. I want the whole world to know. If you do a good job, you'll receive the money. Heard you lost big in Vegas last week-"

"John, I can't do that, do you know how risky that is?"

He snorted, "I told you before, I don't care how you do it, I don't care what the risks are, but you do a good job I'll reward you. Don't think you can fuck with me, I know how much you lost in Vegas. Do this for me and you get double on what you lost in Vegas. "I expect to hear the good news."

John hung up and smirked. Though Charles had a lot of contact in the media industry, John could have asked anyone to do the job for him. In fact it would be done more efficiently. However, as depraved as it sounds, he liked the idea of the power he had over Jared's right hand man. Charles was like a treacherous dog. If he could be disloyal to anyone he could be disloyal to you. John knew it was sad and obsessive to pretend he and Alin had an affair. He swore whenever he was in a meeting or out for social events, everyone would secretly laugh behind his back..

"She left him a week before their wedding"; they'd say. "Bet he's shit in bed"; they'd say. "Oh, Janet, you pined after him for so long maybe now that he's so down, you could be a shoulder to cry on..." Both women were fired.

To be honest, it was really child's play. The Haltor Corporation was a bigger scale in comparison to BankSafe. They really didn't need the money, but to John it wasn't just about money but a matter of reputation. He knew he played a dangerous game. His involvement with Charles meant he had probably broken about a dozen competition law. Still, he couldn't really care less. The satisfaction of seeing Jared's downfall was something he had wanted. How the hell Jared had managed to climb back up five years ago was beyond him.

He knew Alin was Jared's weakness. Not knowing she held a power over him too. John craved to see the replay of the events five years ago. He craved to win Alin back. Showing the world he wasn't a fucking loser. It was an obsession he didn't want to acknowledge. It was sad. So fucking what? No one knew how much it meant to him. How much she actually meant to him. No one. He had waited for her, waited for so long and then she fucked Valentine. Dirty whore.

Using her as a pawn to ruin him was very satisfying. What better way than ruining one's reputation in the business world? John stood in front of the floor length window of his condo, staring down at the world below his feet. Who the fuck dare mess with a Haltor now?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Charles considered the dilemma he was in. Somehow he had this feeling Jared didn't trust him as much as he once had. However, Haltor always paid him too handsomely for him to care. But no matter how much he paid, the money was never enough. He lived in the fast lane which included expensive habits of high class whores, drugs and heavy gambling. Two years ago, in order to fund his lifestyle and keep up appearance, he started to redirect company money into his accounts.

It was a stupid move on his part. Because once it started he was addicted. The money was just too easy to access- add the money he gets from Haltor, it was more than he made in a year. Charles wasn't stupid. He had made sure it was discreet; never taking too much that could arouse suspicions. It was more like pocket money. $5000 here and there. He was never going to make the same mistake as those two executives did five years ago.

However, he knew this game he played was perilous. Haltor was desperate to ruin Jared. Charles knew if he became too embroiled in the game, it could possibly get back to Jared. He could not leave a trail behind.

However, over the years Charles had managed to acquaint himself with a lot of powerful people through his lavish lifestyle. He knew a lot of people and had a lot of connections with affluent media moguls and editors. It was a pity really; Alin was pretty fuckable. It was no wonder Haltor never got over her, but to frame her and intimate that she was seeing Haltor behind Jared's back...that was just sad and desperate. He didn't know what was wrong with Haltor, but it seemed she really did affect him to the point of insanity.

All that thinking was giving him a headache. He had a few days to plan this shit. In the mean time he had more important things to do. He got off the bed, wincing as his painful dick constantly reminded him of the release it needed- and knocked on the bathroom door

"Baby, baby...listen I'm sorry, I had important stuff to do, missing that call would have cost me another diamond necklace for you..."

The blonde emerged from the bathroom with a seductive smile on her face as she dropped her robe. Charles smiled. Life was good and it was about to get better if everything falls into place.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin stared at her phone screen. Unable to process what had just happened. All her excitement was gone. John wanted to meet her. After their last phone call, Alin did not expect to ever hear from him again. It was so unexpected she had no idea how to respond. Ultimately, she forced herself to agree. She knew she owed John. He was a public figure and the scandal she had caused always made her feel guilty. She knew that seeing him was the least she could do.

However her guilt was definitely not shared by Jared. In fact it seemed he enjoyed the feeling of winning. Like she was some kind of prize. And taking her away from John had definitely proved a point. If Jared found out he would...Alin couldn't comprehend what he would do.

He went crazy over the night at the Cullen's'. If she was seen with John, he would take it the wrong way. It wasn't as if she and John would get back together. It seemed strange but it didn't feel right to be with another man apart from Jared.

That thought worried Alin. How could she be with a man who was callous and constantly vow to seek revenge from her so called betrayal? She shook her head putting that thought down to him being her first lover. It was always hard to let go of your first love, and that was exactly how she felt.

Alin hated the contradictions, lying to Jared was not something she wanted to do. It might be a white lie, but it was ultimately still a lie. She hated the feeling of guilt but either way, if she went or not the guilt was still there. She was only seeing John as a friend and Jared had no right to choose which friends she could see. Besides, John had told her he would make sure no one knew about this. She trusted him. As a matter of fact what could he gain from Jared knowing?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared left the meeting with a bigger headache than before. He had to fly to California on Monday to discuss a possible M&A of two online payment companies. It was likely to be five days, and then the following week he had to fly to Beijing to sign the biggest contract BankSafe had ever received. This was a lifeline for him since the deal with the Russians was unlikely to reach anything beyond a settlement and it was vital BankSafe regained investors' confidence; shares had dipped slightly in the past few months.

Business however, was far from his mind. He wanted Alin to come with him. Five days without her and then possibly a week in Beijing...it felt exactly like it did five years ago when he had to fly all over the world for business, it seemed yet again fate was playing its cruel game on him.

He pushed those thoughts out of his mind and concentrated on today. He had promised to take her out shopping, but that wasn't just what he had in mind. So, instead of asking one of his drivers to pick her up, Jared decided he wanted to pick her up and surprise her. After all the arguments, he decided from this day on he would treat her the way she deserved regardless of the past, because he genuinely cared about her.

From afar he spotted her exiting the main entrance. She was dressed in a floral summer dress with a cardigan, it should have been inappropriate for a typical cold March in New York, but today it was unusually warm accompanied with a slight breeze. The sight of her stirred his desire. Her features touched up by minimal makeup were currently marred by confusion as she slowly pouted her lips. Jared thought of those luscious lips wrapped around his cock. Was it only this morning that they had made love?

He noticed her now looking at him, her face lit up, her lips formed an o shaped indicating her surprise at seeing him. Her happiness was evident as her surprised expression quickly turned into a smile.

Alin knew Jared's driver was ever so prompt so when she looked around and spotted Jared leaning against his Porsche Carrera, with his suit and his charming smile, she knew at this point her feelings for him was stronger than lust. Words couldn't describe how happy she was that he decided to come pick her up. Maybe she was deluding herself but this was almost like a real date.

He watched as she ascended down the few steps. When she was a short distance away from him he reached out and pulled her to him, then pushed her so that her back was against the car.

His lips covered hers, muffling her surprised gasp. His hands moved down to cup her behind while he pushed himself against her, letting her feel what she did to him.

"Jared we can't ...n-not here." She whispered softly against his teasing lips. Her voice sounded weak and unconvincing.

His hands left her behind to open the passenger door. "Get in before we get arrested." He said this more to himself than her.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It wasn't as if Alin didn't enjoy shopping, it just didn't feel right when Jared constantly spent huge amounts of money on her- it made her feel more and more like his possession. Alin knew it wasn't a romantic gesture it was a stamp of possession and authority, him telling her how he wanted her to dress, moulding her into something she wasn't.

Jared took her to the most exclusive boutiques wanting the best for her. He wanted to show her what it could be like to be with him- the luxury lifestyle she could live, the things he could give her that no other man could. It still made him bitter whenever he re-called the heartless way she ended their relationship.

Sometimes he did wonder if she dated John to get back at him or for money. He knew she was never materialistic, he knew even now she hated the fact that he was buying her so many expensive gifts. She was financially independent, and if it wasn't for her father she would never have been in this situation today. Jared didn't know why, but buying her expensive gifts established her position: women he dated in the past were all gold diggers and somehow Jared knew the more he gave Alin, the more he can prove to himself she wasn't any different. She was simply a woman who traded her body for gifts and money.

But now it was different.

Today it wasn't about buying anything lavish for her so that he could belittle her; all that was behind him. It might be sentimental but he wanted to show her how much he cared without having to say it in words or express it to her in a way that made him seem weak. He didn't want to let on how much he cared about her or how when he held her at night he would picture their future together; truthfully Jared was never really the type to confess his feelings to a woman. He wasn't really one to make a dramatic speech about worshipping the ground a woman walked on, especially not to a woman who betrayed him in the past.

Still, he didn't know when he had come to have these feelings for her, it seemed each day and night he spent with her, she had managed to get under his skin and right to his very soul. To almost everyone, Jared Valentine had no emotions, though with Alin he had always wanted to show her, show her he was not like how everyone looked at him, though showing his emotions to her five years ago had turned out great, he thought bitterly.

Worst of all he didn't know whether he should feel guilty about treating her the way he had. Shouldn't he be a better man and apologize for the way he had treated her?

"I hate you...and I wished I had never known you."

To this day those words were still on his mind vividly. Jared knew there was no way he could undo what he had done, he couldn't let her go: even if she thought he was a monster or the devil, he still couldn't let her go.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

During the short journey, he had told her he would be leaving on Monday for five days for California, then a few days later for Beijing where he would be staying for a week. There was immediate tension and silence in the car, but it didn't last more than a few minutes before Alin smiled and told him to bring her back something from Beijing. He didn't know whether to feel disappointed or not. He knew he couldn't push her; it was he who had told her she meant nothing to him in the beginning. Jared decided to slowly show her how much he really wanted her.

Alin felt anything but great. Jared was leaving for a total of 12 days. She wanted to believe they were having an exclusive relationship but she knew he would definitely sleep with other girls. He did that when they were engaged, what would the difference be now? It really hurt. What could she do? Demand his fidelity. They weren't even in a relationship. Alin hated feeling so insecure. Why couldn't she hate him? Why did she go and fall in l... stop thinking!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared held her hand as they strolled down boutiques after boutiques, stopping occasionally to admire a dress or the delicious displays of cupcakes, though never once stepping in a shop; it seemed Jared had another destination in mind.

To keep her occupied he would whisper sweet endearing comments in her ear as she laughed at what he had to say, she held onto his arm as she enjoyed a carefree late sunny afternoon.

She was so happy she hadn't fully realized Jared stopping. Before she had registered where she was, a well dressed man had escorted them into the shop.

It took her all but five seconds to register where she was. With its sophisticated surrounding and the displays of expensive jewellery, it was obvious she was in Cartier- minus all its customers as it was apparent that Jared had pulled strings to make sure they closed the shop for them.

"Jared, I don't need another diamond necklace-"

"We'll see." He smiled.

The man had given a box to Jared and had excused himself, disappearing as fast as he had come.

"Come," Jared grabbed hold of Alin's wrist and guided her in front of a mirror. "I didn't do this right the first time round...close your eyes"

She felt his eyes on her as he put the necklace on her. His breathing fanning the side of her neck. Opening her eyes as she felt him slightly move away, a beautiful necklace sat on round her neck. He laid his hands' on her shoulder watching her every expression from the mirror as she fingered the necklace.

The night when he gave her the necklace from the auction, he knew it was merely a way of telling her she belonged to him, but this necklace it had a different meaning.

"Jared...but this necklace.-"

"It took a lot of effort, considering how broken it was, the imperfection remains...but it's something I've always wanted you to have back."

"I..."

"Do you like it?" he whispered as he kissed her neck.

Alin couldn't answer him without giving her heart away. The necklace was the one she had given back to him five years ago, the exact same necklace she had watched shatter to pieces as he threw it against the wall in a rage. She continued to finger it, tracing the necklace. Tears welling up, Alin still didn't know how she could answer him. Why was he doing all this for her? Why did he have to make her feel this way when she was supposed to hate him? Did he perhaps feel the same way for her as she did for him? Or was he trying to make her fall for him so hard that it would break her when he finally no longer wanted her?

She looked back at the mirror and saw him looking at her. She watched his expression and in that instant she saw a glimpse of vulnerability from him. He looked young and almost boyish. It was hard to explain but it seemed he was uncertain if she liked the necklace or not. It touched her.




Not What It Seems Ch. 08



With her continued silence, Jared knew he had a mistake. Why the hell did he even consider this was a good idea? The necklace had been a one-off exclusive; only about twenty were made worldwide. Fixing the necklace had cost more than buying a new one. They had even offered to produce a replica of the necklace but he had refused. In hindsight, what sort of girl would like a recycled necklace? Fuck.

He remembered looking at the broken diamonds on the floor, wanting to throw it away. He scooped it up and was about to throw it away when something made him stop, instead he decided to put it in his safe.

She tiptoed and cupped his face, a small smile on her lips before she kissed him affectionately on his lips. Before he could respond, she pulled back and whispered, "I couldn't ask for a better present. This was a pleasant surprise. Thank you."

Seeing her right now, Jared knew he would never have forgiven himself if he had thrown it away that day. It wasn't about impressing her but showing her he cared. How was it that she was so different from other girls? No other girls he had been with would ever appreciate broken diamonds, yet it seemed in Alin's eyes he had given her the moon.

"Hmmm, is that the best you could do huh?" he whispered tilting so he could nuzzle her and with both his arms wrapped around her small waist he pulled her into him.

She gasped, "Jared not here! There's people around!" she looked around, but to her frustrations there was not a single person in sight.

"Where?" he smirked, "If I want I could get you naked and drape you in all these diamonds and..." he lowered his voice, "take you right here on the floor, or perhaps bend you over that counter and continue where we left off today."

She playfully pushed him away, "You're such a creep!" Alin smiled playfully up at him, "but I might change my mind if we don't have to go shopping today-"

He bent down so that he could kiss the corners of her mouth, somewhat distracted he whispered, "Whatever you want."

Alin laughed, "You'll regret this!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared had almost killed her when she had told him that she wanted to go to a theme park. After reasoning with her that A) the theme park closes at eight meaning they only had less than three hours and B) the most important point of all- he was thirty six for god sake, not only was he way too old for this, it would definitely not go down well if anyone saw him. How can he to ever maintain his fearsome reputation?

"I can't believe you're doing this to me. I'm thirty six-"

"-As I recall, you were the one who suggested we go to a theme park tomorrow-"

Jared snorted, "Yeah, with Hallie's kids!"

"Well it's your fault for leaving me-" Alin stopped herself before she dug any deeper. The truth was she didn't trust him. How could she? He had cheated on her before and with him being so far away the odds were stacked against him. Though the most upsetting thing is, at least five years ago she was his fiancée, and now? She wasn't even his girlfriend.

To her frustrations, he smiled at her teasingly as he whispered, "So tell me, what would you miss most while I'm gone?"

"I-I...I'll miss-" Instantly, Alin regretted rising to his bait.

"Tell me..." he kissed her lightly on the corner of her lips.

"I'll miss annoying you." She finished off lamely.

He laughed, "Whatever."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Funnily enough, theme parks shouldn't have been an activity for two grown adults, but they had enjoyed it immensely. Alin had pointed out constantly that since they were going to another theme park tomorrow with Ryan, Hallie and her kids, it was best to see what they had got themselves into. It was a poor excuse but never-the-less it had been a strange day for Jared.

Jared had never had such a good time doing 'simple' activities. He held her hand as she pulled him around, running excitedly around the theme park. The thing that topped it all off was when they played a shooting game, where he had won her a big teddy bear. Alin had a permanent smile plastered on her face as she hugged it tightly.

They went on rollercoasters and the rush of adrenaline had proved a little too much. When they did catch a movie, around eleven, Alin was so tired; she slept through the movie her head leaning on his shoulder.

Jared studied her peaceful sleeping smile as he abandoned the film. The meeting today with Tom had made him think about the possibility that Alin might not have betrayed him. If there was someone still selling company secrets then surly it couldn't have been Alin. He knew he really needed to find out who was behind all this shit. The more he thought about it, the more he didn't think it was possible Alin could do that to him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Honey, no don't do that you've got dirt all over yourself!" Hallie, who had Penny in her arms handed her over to Ryan so that she could wipe the dust from Alex's hand.

"If you continue this when Alin and Jared come back with ice cream I'll tell them not to give you any since you've been misbehaving." Hallie watched as her son's facial expression

Last night she had begged Jack to come along knowing it would really make Alex happy; however Jack had refused saying something about an important meeting with a client. She knew he was blatantly seeing his new mistress. Not wanting to provoke him; she hadn't challenged him last night. Had she ever dared challenge him?

She glanced at Ryan as he blew butterflies on Penny's stomach making her laugh. A rush of emotions engulfed Hallie. She had always wanted Jack to show some kind of affection to his kids, and in the last few years he had seemed completely disinterested in his family. Hallie no longer loved Jack. In fact those feelings were long ago buried away.

On the one hand, Hallie really didn't know what she felt for Ryan. All she knew was she didn't want to be left alone with him because it seemed she would get herself in a ball of emotions and confusion wherever he was around.

The day had proved a success; Alex had been beaming with happiness as he held onto both Jared and Ryan's hand dragging them along to the next ride. Alin and Hallie's energy level had been reduced to almost nothing in the company of a hyperactive Alex. They decided it was for the best if Jared and Ryan entertained him while they sat in the nearby ice cream parlour.

Alin cradled Penny in her arm as she made faces at the baby.

"I read that women's biological clock start ticking when they are soon to hit twenty five and-"

Alin tried to look annoyed but she couldn't help but smile, "very funny-"

"-And it ticks even faster if friends around her start to have kids-"

"Jared's not the marrying kind or the kind to want kids-"

Hallie grinned, "Who said anything about Jared?"

"You did that on purpose!" Alin smiled, but couldn't help but imagine her future with Jared. What kind of father would he be? If there was anything to base it on, the way he was with Alex and the way he cradled Penny in his arms, Alin knew he would make a great father.

When he had proposed to her he had told her his desire to have children of his own, to make sure his children had all the love and support from both parents as he never had. She had felt a strong bond between them since she had also wished for loving parents. It was hard not to think they had a future together. Alin didn't know where she stood with him. Was she his girlfriend? Or was he just using her?

Sensing Alin's uncomfortable silence Hallie decided to probe her further, "A, what's up?"

"Oh god," she buried her head in her hands, "Hallie, I-I...I'm meeting up with John tomorrow-"

"What are you crazy?! Alin you and Jared love each other! Please do not go back to John! I beg you!"

"No! It's nothing like that! It's just for lunch-"

Hallie held up her hand knowing exactly where this conversation was heading. "Of course I know there's nothing going on between you two, but I also know you failed to mention this to Jared, am I right?"

Alin sighed, "I know, Hallie I know I should tell him, but if I did he wouldn't allow it! I know he'll still think something is going on between us...he really doesn't believe John and I can remain friends-"

"Alin, sometimes you can be so naïve. Do you really think John wants to remain friends with you? I really don't trust him. And as for Jared, I know he wouldn't want you to go, but at least if you tell him, in the future there wouldn't be any misunderstandings if he finds out-"

"Exactly. He doesn't need to know it. I... I d-don't know I just feel guilty lying. It's just I know at least on my part there are no more feelings. I feel that even if John and I can't be together we can be friends. I at least owe John that much. Besides, if I tell Jared or not, he wouldn't understand."

Hallie sighed in frustration, "Alin, you care about him and he cares about you. Why can't you see it? You don't owe John anything. He was never faithful to you. He was a cheating, lying slime ball, so you don't-"

The tension and sadness dissolved when Alin suddenly laughed at Hallie's description of John. All these years when Alin had asked for her opinion she had always been forcefully polite. "Slime ball? What the hell is that?"

"He is though! Jared's like ten times better looking than him and I bet he's so gooood in bed!"

"Hallie!" Alin exclaimed shocked at her friend's comment as Hallie laughed hard.

"Ok, Ok he's not bad-"

Raising her brows in a are you kidding me expression, Alin blushed slightly and smiled. "Fine he's good," At Hallie's continued mocking expression, Alin held up both her hands in surrender, "Okay okay, really really good but only probably because he's had so much practice!"

Smiling slyly, Hallie replied, "So, we went from bad to good, to really really good...hmm make up your mind! Alin, you and Jared have a future. You love each other. Trust me."

Alin smiled. Even though she had troubles of her own. She still couldn't ignore the fact that something didn't seem right with Hallie. She was a shadow of her former self. She seemed happy but there was always something in her expression that didn't show the full picture.

Holding Hallie's hand in hers, Alin said, "I don't know what I would do without you. Hallie... If you ever- I just wanted to let you know that if you ever want to talk to me, you can."

"I know you're concerned about me, but really everything is fine. Maybe Jack and I are not as happy as we used to be, but that's marriage for you."

There was a brief moment when Hallie wanted to break down and confess all, but she couldn't. Not only was she ashamed of herself it didn't seem right to have to burden her friend with any more problems. A marriage with problems was no big deal, Hallie told herself.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"She's married."

It took a full minute for Ryan to realize Jared had spoken.

"What?"

Jared looked at him with raised brows, "Hallie, she's married. And you heard me the first time."

Pausing, Ryan wondered whether he should pretend to not understand him or admit to it. He mimicked his friend's earlier expression, raising his brows mockingly,

"Alin was engaged."

Jared smiled, "We were talking about you. Besides that bastard doesn't deserve her.

"Jack doesn't deserve Hallie. Have you ever seen him with the kids or with Hallie?"

"I know." Jared sighed helplessly, "As long as you know what you're doing. Fuck can't believe we're having a man to man. It's not us to talk about this shit, what happened to us-"

"Jared you said a naughty word! I'm telling mommy!" Alex covered his mouth and looked at Jared shockingly but with a hint of admiration.

Both men had forgotten Alex. He was busy enjoying the Ferris wheel. Jared ruffled his hair affectionately, "Alex, remember when you asked me when you could drive my car-"

"You mean the Porsche?"

"Yup, well promise you won't tell your mom and I'll promise to let you drive my Porsche." Jared winked at Alex.

"B-but I'm not old enough" Alex exclaimed.

"What mommy doesn't know doesn't hurt."

Ryan shook his head in defeat as he witnessed the somewhat shocking exchange between Jared and Alex, "You haven't changed. Bribing a little kid," he lowered his voice so Alex couldn't hear the next bit, "with empty promises, only you can do that."

"I didn't specify the time frame." He grinned.

"Jared, you're so cool. Can I really drive it?" Alex beamed.

"Of course you can, buddy." He ruffled his hair. Alex was beaming with happiness.

Jared turned back to Ryan. There was a moment's hesitation before Jared decided to say it, "I know we don't normally talk about this, but you're my oldest friend and I treat Hallie like my little sister and there's nothing worse than seeing you two not happy. Know that I'll be there when you need to talk or when you need help."

Ryan slapped his best friend on the back, grateful for his words. Though Jared could be an unbearable and callous bastard, he was also a loyal and trustworthy friend. "Jared, same to you, I'll always be there for you, treat Alin well, she's good for you."

Any words exchanged were cut short when Alex turned around and looked at both of them intently, before breathing a sigh of annoyance, "Please, can you two stop being so...ewww, this ride is so exciting and you two keep talking about love! Love is for girls. And I thought you were cool!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After returning from the theme park, Jared had quickly showered and was lying on his bed. He had wanted to join Alin in the shower but it had been such a tiring day running after Alex, he didn't have the energy or the stamina to tease Alin in the shower. This was something they still hadn't done and he was looking forward to just that .

Thinking of how tired he was, he had thought how it would be when he had children. He was thirty six and having children was always what he had wanted before Alin came into his life, and then cruelly left it. After that he had never wanted children. It was something he knew he could do without. He had thought he enjoyed the freedom and the simplicity of bachelorhood. Seeing Hallie's kids and having Alin back changed everything. He wanted her. Not just temporarily, he really wanted her. Needed her. It dawned on him that in these two months he had never talked to her about contraception. Women he had been with had always taken care of it. He never needed to. But Alin was different she was inexperienced. Maybe she was pregnant already. This would, he smiled, make this less complicated.

The room was dimly lit. Alin emerged from the shower wrapped up in a short white towel that settled just above her knees. Jared stopped thinking and watched her every move. It was clear she thought he was asleep. He sat up, placed both his arm behind his head and watched her. He had been so tired but watching her emerge from the shower half naked...

Alin was rummaging through her draws quietly to find her underwear. She slipped on her simple white panties and removed the towel to wrap around her hair before she could put on her bra; Jared cleared his throat startling her. Immediately she turned round one arm instinctively covering her breasts.

She could make out a small smile playing on his lips, "I thought you were asleep."

"I was going to sleep but you came out dripping wet..."

"I'm not drippin-" She stopped before noticing his wide grin. Clearly he was teasing her. "You have a plane to catch tomorrow, go to sleep."

"Hmmm...I am tired, but something isn't." His boyish grin appeared as she noticed his growing erection under the covers. He pulled aside the covers and got up, not caring about his nakedness. It took him two strides to reach her and before she could react he pulled her to him. He kissed her collarbone before moving up, "And don't cover yourself from me" he whispered.

He gently lifted her arm away from her breast, bending his head down to kiss her nipples before gently sucking it until it hardened on his lips. He turned his attention on the other one whilst his hand ascending up to unwrap the towel from her hair. "What did I say about putting your hair down while we're together?" She felt his smile against her breast; her hair was covering one breast seductively.

Alin felt the growing wetness between her legs. "Jared" She pulled his head closer as he rolled his tongue around her nipple then gently suckling it. He paid equal attention to both nipples before pulling back and sat on the bed to watch her lust filled face. Her long hair, still slightly wet covered both her breasts. She looked like an exotic goddess after bathing in the waterfall.

"Come here."

A mischievous thought came to mind. He always made her whimper helplessly. It was definitely payback time...

She walked over to the bed and straddled him. Alin wrapped her arms round his neck and kissed the corner of his mouth then licking his lips. "Tonight it's my turn to make you beg." She whispered hotly in his ear and before he even registered the word, she got up and pushed him back onto the bed.

Alin stood and slid off her panties smiling at him she got onto the bed to straddle him. His cock was threateningly close to her entrance. The feeling was exquisite. He could feel how wet her pussy was. Jared gripped her waist ready for her to ride his hard cock but she pushed his hands away. "Uh-huh. I said it's my turn. No touching," She used her hands to stroke his thick cock, his breath hitched, "Unless you want me to stop."

He shook his head helplessly. "Good." Jared moved impatiently while Alin leaned down to kiss him. She left his lips to trail kisses down his abdomen, watching the hard muscles tense as he tried to control himself. Seeing him so thick and hard made Alin ache with need. She flashed a playful smile at him, then without warning she held his hard cock in her hand stroking the sides and slowly tracing her tongue around his swollen head. she swirled her tongue around the head as he hand continued to stroke his cock. He was dripping with pre-cum as his hardness twitched.

All coherent thought went away as Alin took him deeper into her wet lips, moving up and down his hard cock. "Alin...fuck." He was enjoying it no doubt, watching her lick and suck him so lovingly had nearly made him expire on the spot. Nearly. But there was nothing worse than finishing off in her lips. He wanted to be inside her. NOW.

He pulled her up unexpectedly. "I think you've had your fun. It's my turn. Get on the bed and spread your legs." He growled.

She compiled obediently, sensing his control slipping. Slowly, Alin spread her legs showing her glistening pussy. Jared joined her on the bed, leaning on top of her and smiled like a predator ready to spring. "You're so damn wet..." he held his hard erection tracing it teasingly up and down her entrance. "Does sucking me get you this turned on? Think you need to do it more often."

"Jared, stop I need you. Now." Alin almost begged him.

Immediately he thrust into her, savouring how she gripped him. Five days was going to be a torture. A test of his fucking will.

She grew impatient. Jared continued to thrust into her, but it wasn't enough. He was purposely taking it slow, teasing her. Alin clawed at his back wanting him to thrust in deeper and faster. He seemed to enjoy driving her close to the brink of orgasm then pulling back, unintentionally. Alin clawed at his back, "Jared, please...I- I'm so close."

Hearing her sweet moans and cries, Jared took both her hands and placed it on top of her head as he continued to drive into her. Exposed and at his mercy, he leaned down to kiss her, then taking a pebbled nipple in his mouth and sucking her almost painfully as he felt her pussy gripping his cock hard. He bit his hand as he tried to hold onto the sensations. Inevitably, he joined her and climaxed watching his seed trickle out of her.




Not What It Seems Ch. 08



Collapsing on top of her, they laid in silence, catching their breath. She was stroking his hair affectionately.

"Jared, I-I..." Sensing her hesitation, Jared lifted his head and looked at her.

She looked sad and lost. His heart clenched. He hated seeing her like this. He wanted to protect her. Not realising he was the one hurting her the most. He wanted her to...love him? NO! What had love to do with it? Pushing the thought aside, ignoring his feelings and emotions, he bent down, kissing the corner of her lips before slowly capturing her lips. She emitted a little moan. Jared smiled against her lips. He pulled away and tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear still looking at her. "Tell me" he whispered gently.

"What we have- I...is this- is this exclusive? Or-"

Jared hesitated. He never expected her to ask this question. Is it because she truly wanted to be with him? "-what else do you think this is? Alin, all I can think of is you. Other girls pale in comparison to you. I'll be back in five days. I promise you."

It was clear she was relieved. She kissed him, smiling at him as she wrapped her arms around her neck. "Make love to me again."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The sky remained between pitch black to a pinkish blue, as the first sign of morning filtered in. Jared slowly stirred though the warmth from the bed and her body made him pull her even closer to him. He sighed, breathing in her scent. He didn't want to get up. He could have sent Tom to California, but Jared needed to be there to supervise everything. It was a habit he couldn't break. Jared had one arm wrapped around her waist whilst the other was stroking her hair. They fitted perfectly; with her legs entwined with his, her hand settled on his abdominal, Jared couldn't think of a better place to be.

Absently, her hand stroked his chest as she began to stir. Jared listened as she mumbled incoherently, "Wha time isit? Raw you neavin now?"

God she's cute. And sexy.

"What is it baby?"

She held the cover against her naked breast and sat up. Rubbing her eyes, she looked at him and repeated, "Are you leaving now?" She betrayed little emotion, but Jared knew she was upset.

"My first meeting is at 10."

It takes him less than an hour to get ready and to the airport and then a five hour flight. Probably throw in an extra half hour to find wherever he's having the meeting.

Alin turned to see what time it was. 5:00.

She had exactly 1 hour and 30minutes.

Pulling the covers aside, she got on top of him, straddling his thigh.

Her lips curved up slightly, "how about a going away present?"

He rolled his eyes as she lowered herself onto his hardness. Her tightness gripping him as she moved up and down, up and down...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It was exactly 6:30 when Jared decided to finally leave the warm embrace of his girlfriend. Yes his girlfriend. It felt somewhat strange but yet endearing to think of her this way. When he came back he never expected to still have feelings for her, nor the extent in which she affected him. He watched as she slept soundly her breathing like music to his ears. Alin hugged the bed covers her slender frame tempting him. Smiling he bent down to kiss her lips softly, thinking of how tempting it would be to crawl back into bed with her.

Alin woke to an empty bed. Recalling last night and how she was this morning, Alin felt a blush. She hadn't felt that happy for a long, long time. She thought about it. Maybe except when Hallie gave birth to Alex and Penny; or maybe when Ryan offered her the job. She thought about it. OK maybe when she graduated with top honours. Still she grinned goofily as she got ready for work.

Her mood was short-lived as she realized that she had promised to meet with John. She decided the sheer white blouse and black pencil skirt she was wearing was definitely not suitable. Changing swiftly into simple attire of black pants and white shirt, she left for work, hoping the day could end quickly

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"I have meetings back to back with a client today. Before I forget Sophie told me a Steven Daniels called. You might wanna call him back. He's been pestering Sophie for your private number-" Ryan winked at her.

"Ryan! It's not what you think. He's a potential client I met a few weeks ago. He was really interested with the work we do, so I gave him our office number. And don't let Jared know-"

He laughed. "I'm not stupid. Your boyfriend is one jealous fucker. I don't wanna bail him out of jail. Besides, he's in Cali right? What he doesn't know doesn't hurt eh?"

What he doesn't know doesn't hurt eh?"

This definitely did not apply to meeting with John. He had called her just before lunch to tell her if it was possible to meet at seven tonight. Alin had yet again agreed without really thinking. Still, there was a sinister feeling lurking in the pit of her stomach. She knew there was something but couldn't pinpoint it, her intuition kept telling her not to go, but unfortunately it doesn't stretch to why she shouldn't go.

Then again, she thought back to when she had recklessly met Jared at his suite. At the time, she knew it was wrong but looking back, she didn't really regret anything, because she wanted Jared to be her first lover.

Alin got home by six; she smiled at thinking it as home. Ever since her mother had died, nowhere had made her feel at home, but this place was different it might be lavish but it was also cosy and it surprised her that Jared liked living here and not some 100 room mansion favoured by most of the rich and famous. For the evening, Alin opted for a simple black dress that had a high neck line. Though John told her he would take her to a more private place, she still didn't want to give out the wrong impression should they stumble upon acquaintances'.

Before she had any more time to think, her cell rang, displaying JOHN. Her heart was beating fast. But it wasn't because she was excited to see John, in fact when had she ever been excited to see him?

He was leaning against his sports car. In the exact same way and position Jared had two days ago. She felt nothing. In fact it was on the borderline of annoyance. It was a cruel joke, the desire she felt for Jared, the way he always seemed to stir passion, lust and something indescribable, Alin hated the way she felt, why couldn't she love John? Why after a year of dating she couldn't learn to love him? And yet she had to fall for the one person who didn't want her.

As she reached him, he smiled tenderly at her before hugging her tightly. He pulled back just enough to kiss her forehead, "Alin it's so good to see you. You look beautiful." It was the truth. She looked so sexy in that black dress. He briefly wondered if she put that on for him. He had once told her he loved it when she wore black.

Alin blushed inside. If seeing him wasn't awkward, being in his embrace definitely was. "It's good to see you too," she said evenly.

"Where are we going?"

He smiled affectionately at her. "It's a surprise."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin felt sick.

He took her to Sky View, the place where he had taken her to declare his love for her. She knew he had purposely taken her here for sentimental reasons but she felt trapped and cheated. He had told her this so called meeting was between two friends and yet he had decided on giving her a deliberate message.

John had looked around constantly checking if there was anyone following them. He failed to see anyone. He concluded it was either because Charles fucked up or he hired a pro. He swore to god it better be the latter otherwise Charles was gonna be a dead motherfucker.

They were seated in one of the VIP booths, the best seats in the restaurant. It was a short notice but of course they would have cleared any bookings for John Haltor. They had their starter whilst making light conversation. In the beginning it was a little uncomfortable as he tried to coax her into her lively self, but eventually he had won her over. As they were finishing off the main course, John suddenly realized at this precise moment, he was transported back to when they were dating. When they were happy, when she would smile as he told her a lame joke or when he held her hand as they shared dessert.

He looked across from her as she sipped on a glass of wine. Alin was sophisticated without trying. She was everything he had wanted. Still wanted. John knew he was deluding himself. This was more than revenge. He still thought about her. He fucked a lot of women since they had split, but every time he fucked one he would picture her underneath him.

He reached out to touch her hand, "Alin"

She moved her hand. "John, I don't think this is a good idea"

"Alin, why do you insist on hurting me? I want you. Valentine would never be able to give you the commitment you need. Come back to me." He reached for her again, and this time she didn't move her hand. He continued to stoke her hand. "I love you. I've never stopped. Please give me a chance to prove to you."

She looked at him with tears in her eyes. "I'm sorry." He wiped away her tears. Taking advantage of her weakness he moved closer to her to wrap his arms around her. Stroking her hair, he whispered, "Alin, tell me you love me too. I need to hear it."

She stiffened as soon as she felt his arms around her. Pulling away quickly, she stated "John, I'm sorry. I can't... I love Jared. I've never stopped loving him."

John was angry.

Never stopped loving him?

So in all those years when he had tried so hard to win her affections all she was thinking of was that son of a bitch? He composed himself. He didn't give a fuck any more. All he wanted to do was fuck her. He needed the release.

A dark thought crossed his mind.

There were a few minutes of uncomfortable silence. Alin regretted hurting John. He was a really good guy and she didn't deserve him.

"John-"

"I understand, Alin, I really do." He paused thinking of the next words carefully, "I need you to know that I'll always be waiting for you."

"John-."

"Let me get the bill and we should get going."

"No-"

"Alin, of course it's on me. Also I need to give you something-"

"John, no it's okay-"

She wasn't sure but she thought she had seen an angry expression on his face but it left as quickly as she had noticed it. "Alin, all the things I gave you in the past, I want you to have it back," he held up his hand to stop her, "Do you want to throw those gifts back in my face?"

She sighed, "That's not what I mean-"

"Good. We should get going 'cause it's all in my condo-"

"-it's in your condo?"

"There were too many things to put in my car." He reasoned.

Alin froze. Going to his condo was definitely not a good idea. 'Do you really think John wants to remain friends with you?' Hallie's words rang home. Did he really have an ulterior motive? But what would he want from her? She didn't think he actually wanted her. She had told him no, and knowing John for so long, she knew he wasn't the sort of person to force himself on a woman. Alin felt ashamed for thinking of him in that way after the way she had treated him.

"I'm sorry, John, I've just had a really tiring day. Oh didn't you say you were going to refurbish the place?"

"Yeah nothing special," he shrugged his shoulders, "come let's go."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Settling in his condo, Alin noticed a few subtle changes. It had less of her influence and was definitely more like a bachelor pad.

"Drink?"

"No, it's okay-"

"Red wine always used to be your favourite-"

"I don't want- can I just have a glass of orange juice, please?"

He looked at her almost mockingly, "Alin, this costs $15,000." He ignored her protest and handed her a full glass.

She had always been a light drinker, and drinking this full glass would definitely get her tipsy. Surly John remembered that. Alin traced her finger along the edge of the glass, taking occasional sips. The whole situation was threatened by a foreboding feeling. Alin felt his eyes on her, burning her to the core.

"Didn't you say you had something to give me-"

He was watching her.

"-because it's getting late and, I have work tomorrow."

Without saying a word he got up and took the glass out of her hand. Before Alin could react he bent down to kiss her almost forcefully.

Realisation quickly dawned and she tried to push him away but as she was sitting down on the sofa it was hard to summon the strength to push him off.

John drew back just enough to whisper, "Alin, I need you. Fuck Valentine. We were always meant to be together." He pushed her onto the sofa and leaned over her, forcing his lips on hers. Again Alin tried to push him away but he was just too strong.

He left her mouth to unzip her dress, fumbling with the zip as he tried to quickly rid her of any clothing.

Alin was scared; she knew if she did not react quickly he would definitely rape her. John was now partly kneeling on the couch and was no longer using all his strength to trap her underneath him. Using this opportunity, Alin once again pushed him off, and was fortunately successful.

She staggered onto the floor as she stared at him in horror. "What is wrong with you?!"

His lips curved, "Alin, fuck playing the innocent act. Valentine fucked you, I'm sure he wouldn't mind sharing."

She slapped him hard across the face. For once in her life, she didn't want to be controlled, didn't want everyone to tell her what to do. She was sick of being caught up in their twisted macho game. She walked away, and as she did John violently jerked her back, pushing her against the wall and using his hand to hold onto both her wrists above her head.

"We were about to be married till you fucked him. Do you know how humiliated I was? waited five years to fuck you. Five long fucking years. But you gave your virginity to Valentine, you were always meant to be mine."

"No, I was never anyone's."

"Let me go!" she cried.

John stared at her with bloodshot eyes. Holding onto her wrist tightly, he really wanted to grab her and fuck her against the wall. Even through his haziness he felt desire, a strong desire to be inside her. But he didn't want to fuck an unwilling woman. When he take her, he wanted her to beg. Letting go of her wrist, he slumped back onto the couch.

If she wanted to play this game, so be it. John smiled to himself. Charles better deliver because when Valentine found out what she did behind his back, he'd go fucking crazy.

Alin stared back at him as he grinned slyly. He wasn't even sorry. This was his true nature. She couldn't believe she didn't see it coming. "I never want to see you again." She cried.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Ryan huffed in anger.

"No! He doesn't do that and get away with it! Alin, do you understand how serious this is?" He put up his hand and shook his head, "course you don't. You always see the best in people. Always. That's why he knows he could treat you like this and get away with it."

It was around eleven when Alin called him desperately. She had sounded distressed on the phone and Ryan had dragged his ass out of bed after a tiring day of work. When he arrived, he noticed she looked extremely upset. It was only when they arrived at his apartment did she finally break down and tell him. He had a suspicion her account was watered down, and if that was the case, he really needed to beat the shit out of that lowlife.

"Ryan, please just drop it, I mean all he did was try and kiss me-"

"Who you kidding? He tried to?" without a word, Ryan grabbed his car keys and was about to leave for the door when Alin took his hand and pulled him back.

"Wait, what are you doing?!"

Ryan looked at her and calmly stated, "I'm going to that bastard's house to beat the shit out of him. Alin, you don't have to tell me what really happened, because I know already. He's a lowlife and I won't have him lay a finger on you-"  

"No! Please don't! I've already had enough for one night. I said I never wanted to see him again so it will never happen again."

"And you think that's good enough? You think he'll just magically leave you alone?"

She shook her head, "Ryan, please. I- I don't know. But I don't want you to get hurt in the process.

He laughed immediately lighting the mood. "Please." He cocked his eyebrows, "Hurt? Maybe your Jared will, but me?" He flexed his muscles and raised his eyebrows at her arrogantly, "let's be serious."

"Jared's probably much stronger than you-"

Ryan threw his head back laughing and Alin blushed. "Ryan! Stop doing that. God I think sometimes you and Hallie enjoy seeing me squirm with embarrassment."

He shrugged, "what can I say great mind thinks alike. There's nothing wrong with being in love."

"I'm not in love."

"Whatever." His face returned to a more serious expression, "Okay I'll make a deal with you. You have two choices: I either fuck that lowlife up or- no Alin." Holding his hand up. "No interruptions. Or we call the cops."

"But-"

"It's sexual harassment. Or whatever you want to call it. We need...what's that thing called? A restraining order or somethin'."

"I... I met up with John today because I felt I had to. The way I treated him was inexcusable- no Ryan it's true. He's always been there for me and I just left him with no explanation. He had to find out through a newspaper report. What he did to me today... I need to give him a chance, he deserves that much-"

"He deserves fuck all." He mumbled.

"I just don't want to make the situation more complicated."

"Alin, if you don't do anything about it, you're probably making it more difficult."

"I know. But there's nothing I can do. Now that I know his true nature, I'll never trust him again. I just don't want any media involvement in this. This could ruin Jared's reputation as well."

Ryan considered her words, "Okay one more chance for that piece of shit. But Jared has to know this."

"No, no he doesn't you know what Jared's like...if he found out, I really can't imagine what he'll do!"

"He'll beat the shit outta him, which I may add is exactly what he DESERVES."

"Oh come on, beating him up is fine, killing him isn't. That's what Jared will do! You know him better than me and you know how crazy he is. Pleasssse." She pouted prettily.

Ryan could never resist a pretty face. Placing both his arms on her shoulder he sighed in both frustration and worry for his friend, "You're too nice, and people take advantage of it. Sometimes you have to think of yourself before other people,"

He guided her to the table and poured her a glass of orange juice.

"What would I do without a friend like you? I'm sorry for calling you so late."

"That's what friends are for." He patted her head and smiled, "but I know what you can do for me. Steven Daniels called today."

"Ryan, no."

"Hey hear me out first. He called me, me up today. Seems he's pretty insistent on working with our company especially you. His old man is behind most of the luxury apartments and hotels being built today in China and the Middle East. Do you know what this means? It means his interest in you; well the company will add the exposure we need."

"So you're selling me out huh?" she teased.

"Well not really, just wanted to let you know what a great catch he is and if you ever wanna dump that poor boyfriend of yours, there's always another waiting." He laughed, "Just kidding, but seriously give that guy a call. The projects are lucrative- we're talking about billions of dollars. Ah, anyway, no more talk of work. I work 70 hours a week, anymore talk of work I might just blow my brains up."

"I know. That's why you're single."




Not What It Seems Ch. 08



He playfully punched her, "very funny. I'm not getting into a relationship, until I meet the right girl."

The thing is, he's met her...she's just not available.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The next day, Alin still felt a slight pain in her wrist as John had grabbed her so hard. But never the less she had put that episode behind her, promising herself never to answer his call or see him again. She turned her thoughts to Steven Daniels. Twirling the card he had given her a few weeks back in her hand, she debated for the fifth time whether she should make the phone call. She was about to pick up her phone to call, when Sophie popped her head round to announce Steven was on the line.

"Hi, Steven, I'm sorry I've had a lot of projects going on I haven't had time to call back. I'm really sorry."

"Hey, no need to apologize. I'm glad you take your work so seriously. Our last encounter was brief. I would have liked to get to know you, and your work a little better. How've you been?

She felt a blush. Last time the encounter was brief because of Jared and his jealousy. "I've been great, thanks for asking. And I'm so happy that you like our work so much. It's really flattering. But what is it I can help you with?"

"Alin, I think you're really talented. So I've got a proposition for you. My father has a few projects coming up in Beijing and Kuwait, mainly luxury apartments, hotels. We need it to be better, bigger and more iconic than anything anyone's seen. Also, we have a some charitable projects going on. Business is booming. I need you on board. You're smart and talented. I know you're exactly what we're looking for. And- "He hesitated, "I want to get to know you better..." Steven trailed off, hoping he didn't sound creepy and blow his chances. He really liked her. Although last time was a brief meeting, her beauty and charisma really drew him to her. He knew even if he didn't have a chance with her, he would like to remains friends with her.

"I... Steven, I have...you met Jared the other night. I truly care about him and I wouldn't want to do anything to jeopardise our relationship. Please understand that."

"Hey, don't worry about it. You're an attractive girl and I thought maybe I... ah anyway doesn't matter I just wanted to know that you're what my company is looking for, so the offer still stands."

I'm truly flattered with your offer. But the projects are big commitments. I'm not as experienced as others. I don't want to be a disappointment."

"Ryan told me he was not willing to work with me unless you're on board. So I'm afraid I've got to persuade you first."

"Steven, you truly flatter me. Will you be able to give me time to decide? Because this is a big decision for me and it's not something I can agree to straight away."

"No problem. We still have a few financial things to straighten up, but I would like to know within the next few weeks, if that's okay with you?"

"Of course! Thanks so much. And once again thank you for even giving me this opportunity."

They said their goodbyes and hung up. Alin couldn't wait to tell Jared about this opportunity and hoped he would support her. Her reluctance to accept this job was do to her concern with how he might react. She didn't want to leave him. But she knew her career was important too.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It was around half eleven when the sound of her cell phone roused her from her sleep. She had been dreaming, dreaming that Jared was holding her and doing all the things to her body that made her squirm in pleasure.

"Hello?"

Jared didn't want to wake his angel up. It was the fourth day and he was due back Saturday night. He needed to speak to her otherwise he would go crazy.

"Hey, did I wake you?"

"Jared? No- I was just um...doing some work. "

He could tell by her sleepy voice that she was still half asleep, "are you sure? Cause I can always call back later if you're doing work"

"No! Okay, you did wake me, but it's only 11. I don't have work that early tomorrow anyway. How did the meeting go?"

"We're just going over the fine print and waiting to sign the contracts. By next Monday, BankSafe will own a majority stake in two of the biggest online payment companies."

"That's really good! So, um...are you coming back tomorrow? Since everything is sorted out?"

"No. it's probably going to be Saturday-"

"Okay..guess, um I understand." She was upset. How long had it been? Four days. She knew she was being pathetic. After all they had split up for five years, and in those five years though her thoughts would often drift back to him she could function very well without him. Now? She couldn't even spend five days without being beside him.

"Alin, I miss you."

She paused not knowing whether she should tell him how she really felt, because if she did, this would be one long phone call, "I miss you too." she whispered

Jared smiled at her words. Those three simple words couldn't even begin how much he had actually missed her.

"Where are you now?"

"I'm in my suite... lying in bed- thinking of you." He sighed, the pent up sexual frustration really, really getting to him, "Things, I'd like to do to you. And the way you scream and moan my name."

Alin felt an uncomfortable ache. She had tried to ignore the growing tension she felt between her legs at night as she slept alone in bed, but it seemed as the day passed she grew more restless. She tried to control her breathing as Jared continued to whisper down the phone.

"...and feeling how wet your pussy is when I trace my finger down each fold, hearing you moan in pleasure."

She moaned as she felt her nipples harden and a growing wetness between her thighs. Breathless she whispered, "Jared...please don't."

He didn't know what he was doing, but he was fucking horny and if hearing her moan down the phone was the best he could get, he was damn well gonna take whatever he could."You're really wet, aren't you?"

"I..."

"Take off your top and your bra. It's the white lace one isn't it?

She gasped, "Y-yes..."

Jared drew in his breath, "Your nipples are so, so hard, aren't they? Begging for me to take it into my mouth, begging for me to suck it, while I play with your pretty little pussy." He heard her moan. He was so hard, he didn't know why he'd start something he couldn't finish.

Her breath became erratic, her arousal driving her crazy. "Jared, I need you. I need you inside me."

He chuckled, "Baby, there's nothing I would like more. For now, roll those panties down for me. Slowly."

She compiled obediently, her breath coming in short pants. Just his voice ordering her what to do was getting her to the edge.

"Baby, I know you're really wet for me...touch yourself. Touch your pussy. Touch it for me."

Alin closed her eyes as her fingers lightly traced her swollen folds, then increasing pressure on her clit. "Jared, oh god Jarrr-ed." She threw her head back, just as she thrust two fingers into her pussy.

"How does it feel? Tell me, is it wet and swollen for me?" He growled with increasing frustrations. "Alin, tell me! How do your fingers feel? You want it to be my cock so bad don't you?"

"Yes...Yes..." she moaned loudly.

Hearing her sweet moans, he started to slowly rub his erection. "Do you have any idea what you're doing to me? I'm so hard. I'm so fucking hard cause of you."

"Jared...oh god, I'm-"his words toppled her over the edge as her orgasm washed through her. Her pussy contracting against her own fingers, she continued to moan his name driving him crazy. She was covered in sweat, her pussy over-sensitive and slick. She sighed in contentment. The feeling was a relief but she knew it wasn't enough. The other end was silent.

"Jared?"

He was speechless. That was one of the sexist things he had ever heard. His imagination was running wild.

"Jared, are you there?"

He groaned. "Yeah, baby I'm here."

"Are you okay?" she asked in concern.

"Yeah, I'm okay, I'm just so hard I can't even move. Did anyone ever tell you how sexy you are? Cause believe me, when I come back on Saturday, I'm gonna make love to you until you beg me to stop-"

"Touch it for me. I wanna hear you come." She whispered seductively.

He groaned even louder this time, "Alin, don't-"

"You know you made me come so hard. Don't you want me to do the same for you? I wish I were there with you, because I would probably get on my knees and-"

"Alin, no! Don't say another word. One more word coming out of your mouth I swear I'm gonna blow it."

She chuckled, "granddad!"

Her laughter was like music to his ears.

"Alin, I really miss you."

She stopped laughing and took a sharp intake of breath. Why did he always have to say things like that? Did he really miss her or did he just miss having a convenient sleeping partner?

"I-I really m-miss you too." she said.

He really underestimated what five days apart did to him. It was driving him crazy. Not only did he miss her but he had a feeling- no he knew his feelings for her ran deeper.

"Baby, I'll be back Saturday night."

"Okay"

"And...you'll be in bed naked waiting for me won't you?"

She laughed, "You're such a pervert"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Meanwhile, Timothy Fanning sat in his study, smoking a cigar and enjoying the silence the night brought him.

"Timmm"

Silence

"Timmmm"

Silence

"Fuck sake, Timmmmmm."

Timothy ignored the shrill of his wife's voice and sat back on his chair. Life was so different now. Timothy smirked. She was a clever girl, his daughter, moving swiftly back into Valentine's life. Though not as rich as Haltor, Valentine had done well for himself in these past years; he had managed to save his damaged company, reviving it into the best in the business. But most importantly he was proud of his daughter, Haltor was a great catch, but his fortune was likely to be stuck in a trust fund, which meant waiting, something Timothy was not particularly fond of.

Now five years later, sitting comfortably at home, meant he no longer needed to worry. Debt free, business was doing well, what more could a man, who once owed $5million dollars ask for? He still couldn't believe his luck. Most importantly, he knew Valentine was serious with his daughter. Why else would she not be concerned with the debt? He must have paid it for her.

Valentine could prove to be an important ally. Timothy was itching to expand his business further. It was about time he paid a visit to his daughter and future son. It was also time his daughter secured a ring on her finger. She was beautiful, but all clever women know beauty was a depreciating asset.

"Timothy?! Did you not hear me? I've been calling you for the past five minutes!" his wife's annoying voice drifted into the room jolting him back from his musing.

"Honey, I'm sorry, I was catching up on work."

"I just wanted to say, you should invite your daughter over for dinner-"

"W-what?" he stuttered. Surprise was an understatement.

She shrugged her shoulder nonchalantly, "I thought it's time you and her made amends."

He threw his head back and laughed. "You are talking about Alin right?"

She sighed in frustrations, "Tim, stop acting like this. You only have two daughters. Unless you're telling me that you've been fucking around again."

He ignored her comment. Yeah he was still fucking around, but it's not as if she could compare to the 20 something models that paraded around him, "You hate her, why the sudden change?"

She went round the desk to sit on his lap, "Timmy, darling, think about it, you know we're comfortable. No financial worries right? But then again, having a backup plan doesn't hurt. If you make amends with your daughter, well who knows, Jared could help you expand the business."

He rolled his eyes. Talk about great mind think alike. His wife- the scheming little bitch.

"I'll call Alin." Seeing his wife perk up he quickly continued, "but she's even more stubborn than her mother. So don't get your hopes up high just yet. Seriously I don't know who she takes after."

She kissed him, sliding her fingers underneath his shirt, "I'm so glad I married you."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*



Not What It Seems Ch. 09



Hi,

Yet again I want to apologise for the long wait but with exams and work, this obviously was not my top priority. 

I want to thank two readers Fran who encourages me to keep on writing, even though I want to give up at times and to CVC who sends me very long suggestions, which have greatly improved this chapter. Most importantly Jim, who has yet again done a great job with this and made it that much better to read, so again any mistakes found in this chapter, is totally my fault. 

This story is drawing to a close, it'll maybe be one or two more chapters before the end, and yes this is a long one, originally wanted to split it in two but since it's been nearly three months since I've posted...

Anyway don't forget to tell me what you think of this chapter, and before anyone asks, I'll try and post the next one very soon! 

Ascii

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Alin had been thinking the whole morning of what she could do when Jared came home. The idea of dressing in sexy lingerie and lying in bed so that he could ravish her was something that didn't sound bad. After all, the phone interlude yesterday and his declaration of making love to her until she begged him to stop, lying in bed and playing the seductress would definitely be appreciated. She tingled slightly; secretly hoping Jared lived up to his declaration.

Strolling to the kitchen to grab something to eat, an idea suddenly struck. 

She could cook for him! 

Since moving in, Jared had always taken her out for meals and even with her privileged upbringing, her mom had never liked eating out in pretentious restaurants, and insisted on cooking wholesome home made meals. Though the idea of cooking for him was definitely not particularly original, it would be a pleasant surprise for him, and who knows she could definitely offer herself for dessert...

"What to do now?" Alin wondered out loud. 

Without sounding arrogant, she was a damn good cook, but this was Jared's favourite meal she was trying to re-create. Something he had always told her, no one, absolutely no one could do better than his mom. The meal was stir fried lobster laid on top of crispy noodles, then finished off with dessert of dark chocolate cake with whipped cream. Since Jared had a humble upbringing this meal had always been reserved for special occasions. He often complained that he still hadn't had it anywhere close to his mom's cooking. 

Deciding to accept his 'challenge' Alin picked up the ingredients and started to prepare, praying this wouldn't turn into a disaster. What Jared had described was a challenge for a master chef, (the timing for cooking the lobster had to be accurate, the vegetables had to be al dente and the chocolate cake, Jared had said he preferred it not too sweet, but not too bitter). If the top restaurants charging hundreds of dollars for a meal didn't impress him, she didn't know how she could. Still she had eight hours before he returned, which gave her more than enough time to do everything. Or so she thought...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

"Is there anything else I can help you with, Mr Valentine?"

The blonde flight attendant's sultry voice drifted into Jared's trains of thoughts until he realized she was actually talking to him. It was the third time she had come and specifically asked him. Though he was in first class, this treatment led to very familiar territory. 

"No..." he looked at her name tag, "Gina, it's okay. I don't think I'll need anything for the remainder of this flight. Thanks." 

He watched as her expression became sullen but she composed herself quickly and leaned closer, "I understand Mr Valentine, but if there's anything at all you need, please don't hesitate to ask me, I'm willing to help you in any way."

"Thanks Gina." He turned back to the window subtlety dismissing her. 

A few years back he would fuck her as soon as he got off the flight or worst fuck her inside the confinement of the cabin bathroom. Funny how money can turn one's eye away from when one's breaking the law. But now, women like the blonde didn't satisfy him. It wasn't because they weren't attractive but because there was someone he couldn't stop thinking about. 

He had made a silent vow to himself he couldn't love her, but the more time he spent with her the more he knew his feelings towards her couldn't be controlled. And after these five days apart, Jared no longer wanted to live in denial. Staring out of the window, he couldn't wait to go home.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

The messy kitchen, utensils, pots and pan strewn everywhere, Alin's optimism was diminishing more by the second. Her mom once told her confidence is good, too much confidence is arrogance. At the time, she had nodded her head but not truly understanding the meaning. Now she finally understood. Alin spent the past few hours lounging around and working on her latest proposal for a client, assuming that the meal tonight would be an easy enough task. Now looking around at the mess, half cooked food and then the clock, her mom's word really rang home. 

Luckily, it wasn't as if she's messed anything up, it was the fact that nothing was going to plan and the workload was killing her. Not only had she been out of practice with cooking, the lobster was very nearly overcooked, and most importantly she nearly forgot to set the oven timer for the cake. Fortunately, she had checked before disaster struck. 

Still she was worried. Jared was a perfectionist and she was worried he would be too critical. Even worse the uncertainty of him maybe just politely pushing the food around. Oh god what have I got myself into? Alin thought, mentally wondering if giving up now was an option. Staring at the rising cake in the oven and the cooked lobster, hands on her hips, Alin decided giving up now was definitely not on. 

'Okay..." Alin looked around and mumbled out loud, slight panic settling in, "the whip cream's done." She dipped a finger into the soft fluffy cream and licked her fingers, nodding to herself how delicious it tasted, "Now the sauce for the lobster and noodles, then I'm pretty much done." She did a double take and mentally slapped herself, "Damn I haven't even showered or changed." She glanced at the clock, another hour or two before he came back. Deciding her appearance was probably the least important thing, Alin proceeded with the sauce, trying to make sure the consistency was right.

 "Something smells nice" 

Alin jumped at the sound, turned and was shocked to see Jared leaning against the kitchen counter top, a small smile on his lips. 

"Wh-what?" She stuttered in shock, "W-when did you get back?" 

Jared came back a good ten minutes ago to the sound of pots and pans clanging, and the delicious wafting smell of chocolate cake. He had proceeded to the kitchen and was taken aback by the sight. Alin dressed in a simple pair of tight fitted jeans and white tank top, bending over to tend the cake. It was a sight he could get used to. Then he heard her groaning as she tasted the whipped cream, it was too bad that she had her back to him, otherwise it was definitely a sight he could get used to. 

"I got back ten minutes ago-"

"Oh!? You were standing here-" Alin blushed, if he got back ten minutes ago...he must have heard her checking things off her fingers and her fretting about everything going wrong. He must have thought she was a mad woman.

Jared continued to grin at her. She was so damn sexy and cute, especially since she had no idea she had two streaks of whipped cream on either side of her cheeks.

She folded her arms, somewhat frustrated, "Why are you smiling-"

He tried hard to contain his grin, "because you look so sexy with your hair all loose... and cute with two streak of whipped cream on your face and-"

Alin bit her bottom lip quickly touching her face, where indeed she could feel the wetness. How the hell did she not feel that? Without thinking, she scooped the cream from her face with her finger and licked it. 

Talk about sexual innuendo- Jared had never seen anything so innocent yet so alluring-

"The sauce!" Alin exclaimed and turned back round, stirring the content quickly. To her relief, nothing was burnt and the consistent of the sauce was perfect. She was about to tell Jared what a disaster he would have caused, but before she could say anything, he wrapped one arm around her waist, while his other hand covered hers and they both stirred the sauce together.

"Hmm...I think I've got myself a sexy domestic goddess. This smells delicious. Just like mom's cooking... I can't believe you remembered." His hot whispers in her ear were making it hard to concentrate. 

Jared started to kiss her neck sucking at the flesh tenderly. He used the distraction to switch the stove off.

"Stop, I need to..." her reluctance was weak and all coherent thoughts were out the window as Jared slid his hand over the apron and underneath her white vest top. She could feel his hardness and his increasingly seductive kisses on her neck. 

"Jared-"

He turned her round, and looked at her, all dishevelled and hazy eyed staring back at him. Jared brushed her hair away from her face.

"You did this all for me?" he whispered, touched at the effort she had gone to for him.

She nodded unable to speak. 

He lifted his hands to circle her lips, "The cream... you left a spot..." and before Alin could do or say anything, he replaced his fingers with his tongue, licked the cream off her lips and kissed her. 

Jared had started to untie the apron from her back and undid the button on her jeans. He needed her. He couldn't believe she still remembered, it seemed everything he had told her in the past she had remembered. 

Before he could continue with his thoughts, she pushed him away, breaking away from the kiss. "Jared...no...this-" she gestured to the food on the stove "took me ages. We are going to eat it."

He laughed, "Okay, but... do I get to taste you later?" 

"Jared!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

The presentation of the food looked really good. It was how it tasted, which was the most important. Jared had always confessed his dislike of food that had a small piece of meat on a bed of minuscule salad drizzled with sauce. He had told her food like that was pretentious and pointless; it was home cooked and wholesome food he preferred. 

"How is it?" Alin watched him eagerly, noting a small frown. That was definitely not good. It wasn't as if there was any way she could cook as good as his mom, but coming a close second was at least some sort of consolation. She tried to smile, "I didn't expect it to be good. I mean-"

"Try it first." His expression was neutral as he lifted his fork so that she could try. Alin tasted the content off his spoon. She didn't want to admit it, but it tasted pretty good. In fact without sounding arrogant, it was really good. But then again she knew it was Jared, and his unbearably high standards. 

Jared scooped up a piece of lobster meat and tasted it. "You know, if I didn't know, I would have thought my mom was cooking for me right now. The lobster's not too stringy or flavourless, which is what you get if you overcook it." He tried the vegetables, "and this is done to perfection." He twirled the slightly crispy noodle with his fork and tasted it, "and this is still crispy and the flavour of the sauce complements the ingredients well. Seriously you're the perfect girl mom's been describing." Jared said teasingly and didn't fail to see the smile on Alin's face as she slightly blushed at his compliment.

Jared remembered when he was younger and his mom had cooked this meal for his birthday, he had simply asked her if anyone could cook as good as she did. She bent down to ruffle his hair and smiled while telling him: "You will. Of course you will honey, and when you find her, marry her."

"Now I think you're just exaggerating, this is my first time making this, how can I, in anyway compare to your mom?" She pouted, disappointed that Jared rather lie to her then tell her the truth.

Jared remembered when he was younger and his mom had cooked this meal for his birthday, he had simply asked her if anyone could cook as good as she did. She bent down to ruffle his hair and smiled while telling him: "You will. Of course you will honey, and when you find her, marry her."

"You're lying." She pouted, disappointed that Jared would rather lie to her then tell her the truth.

He held his hand up in the air innocently. It was by far the best he had tasted. He wasn't being bias, okay maybe a little, but it tasted exactly how mom used to make it. Everything was right. "It is nice! Why would I lie? And-" he held up a hand to stop her protests, "When I finish this meal...I'm going to ravish you for dessert. The chocolate cake can wait."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

They both made light conversation during dinner, and from the appreciative noises Jared made whilst eating the meal, even asking her for seconds, Alin was pretty sure he did enjoy it. After he was finished, Alin cleared the plates and went inside the kitchen to prepare the cake. It was a rich slice of moist chocolate cake with whipped cream on the side. 

"I said dessert can wait didn't I?" Jared had come up behind her prying the plate out of the hand and placed it on the kitchen top. He kissed her tenderly with a hint of urgency. In between kisses he whispered, "You know we've never christened every room..." 

"Jared, we can't do it here!" Alin half protested but she was curious and excited about the idea. 

"We sure can." He whispered back. "But before we go on..." he swept her hair to the side, "I've got a present for you."

"Jared, not another diamond necklace. I appreciate it, don't get me wrong. But-"

He laughed and put a chain round her neck. Alin looked down, expecting to see a sparkling pendant shining back at her, but it wasn't. It was a set of keys.

She turned back to him. Instead of his usual teasing looks, he looked at her with softness in his eyes.

"I remember when we first met, you asked me what my favourite season was. I thought it was such a...random question. But I answered summer. And the reason I gave you was because I get to see girls in next to nothing. You laughed, but disagreed with my reason. You said summer was your favourite because when the sun is shining, it made you happy. When you said that, I remember you smiling back at me. I'd never seen anything so beautiful. So, when I was in California I thought about taking you somewhere really hot, Maldives, Hawaii, South Africa, Egypt... but with our work schedule, I knew you wouldn't want to tear yourself away for a few days let alone for a week. Then I was in LA discussing the contract, not really paying attention, then while the man was talking, I looked at the window and thought, wouldn't it be great if we had a holiday home?" he picked up the set of keys that were around her neck. "This place is near the beach and it's yours. Just need you to sign the papers." He shrugged his shoulders, "from time to time you get your sunshine and I get to see you in a bikini and your smile- what's not to like-"

Her lips were on his before he could finish. It wasn't because he bought her an apartment, though that was pretty generous of him, but because he wanted her happy. He wanted to see her smile. With Hallie and Ryan being the exception, no one really cared whether she was happy or not. She could never tell him she loved him, because she feared it wouldn't be returned, so instead she poured everything in that kiss.

He lifted her up, placing her on the kitchen counter top while he continued to kiss her. He wanted her, wanted her so badly. "Alin, I want you; I want to hear you scream for me tonight. I couldn't stop thinking about you these five days. Do you have any idea how many times I've wanted to be inside you? To make love to you until you scream my name?"

"Jared-"

"Let me love you."

She felt tears at his sweet words. How was it that four simple words can make her quiver and weak for him? Men say things in the throes of passion they don't mean, Alin knew this but still she hoped, really hoped she was as important to him as he was to her. 

Ever so slowly he took off her tank top and then he unclasped her bra. He let his lips linger on hers, then slowly trailing his lips to her ear, "Do you have any idea..." his breathing became even more ragged as the softness of her skin touched his. "...I couldn't stop thinking about you. Alin, I need you...please, Alin tell me you need me too."

Alin "Yes...Jared...I need you."

He took a nipple in his mouth, groaning at what he had missed. How the hell did he even manage to survive five days? Taking the chance to undo her tight jeans, he impatiently tossed it aside, while his lips and tongue played havoc with both her nipples. Using his hand he lightly traced over every inch of her skin until he was close to her pussy. Feeling the front of her panties he could feel the moisture that gathered and the heat. Impatiently, he pulled her panties aside, he traced every fold of her wet pussy, as he fought to control himself at finding how wet she was for him. 

Alin pulled him closer to her breasts as he continued to tease her nipples with his wicked tongue and his fingers lightly stroking her clit. She needed him, but it seemed he took greater pleasure in teasing her to the point of insanity than giving her what she wanted.

"Please-" she moaned breathlessly. "Jared...I n-need you...please."

Jared moved his kisses to her luscious lips, and removing his hand from her pussy reluctantly, he started to strip himself of his clothing. He was so hard it hurt. Five days- okay maybe four days after one solitary completion in the shower, the pent up sexual frustrations made his cock twitch as he released it from its confinement. 

He held his erection in his hand and slowly stroked it, while teasing her with light kisses on the corner of her lips, "do you know how hard I've been for the past five days thinking of you spread out on the kitchen table." He started to trace his erection along her wet pussy and occasionally slipping the head of it inside of her before pulling out again, "do you have an idea what seeing you right now do to me" his breathing became erratic, he slowly inched his way into her before burying himself all the way to the hilt. 

Feeling her tightness wrapped around him and the way she clenched and unclenched her muscles made him stop to compose himself. He bit his lip hard as the sensation of her pussy made it so painful not to pound into her and fuck her relentlessly. He spread her legs wider and leaned down to capture her lips. Slowly he started to thrust into her deep, his lips catching each moan she emitted. He was holding her close as if he never wanted to let her go. 

That was it.

He stopped moving suddenly; still hard inside her. Alin looked up at him, wide innocent eyes staring up at him. She smiled mischievously at him. 

His breath hitched. 

"Alin... I l-love you."

He searched her expressions as she remained speechless. Jared wanted to die there and then, of course after making love; at least it was a good way to go. It might be obnoxious but he had never felt rejection before. Truthfully he had to be the one to stop women from throwing themselves at him. But now wasn't about his ego, it was the fact that she didn't feel the same for him. He buried his head into the crook of her neck so that he didn't further betray how much the unreturned love had hurt him. He started to push into her gently, as she opened her legs wider to accommodate him. 

Alin remained speechless at his revelation. Instead she chose to fully compose herself before she answered him, because truthfully, the words could mean nothing to him. He started to thrust into her before she answered, and he buried his head in the crook of her neck. she shuddered as he touched her so intimately, the tense feeling in the pit of her stomach built up, Alin craved for the release- craved for him to take her faster, but he was going so slow that she could feel his hardness sliding in and out of her pleasurably.




Not What It Seems Ch. 09



Silence apart from their moans and heavy breathing filtered in. Alin felt moistness against her neck. At first, through her hazy induced pleasure state she had thought it was their slick sweat and his wet lips tracing her sensitive skin, but it didn't feel right. She moved him so that she could kiss him, and at that moment she caught the tears in his eyes, the vulnerability reflecting through his eyes. 

He bent his head down to capture her lips, pouring every emotion, every word he wanted to tell her in one single kiss. It would never be enough if she couldn't love him back, but for now, this is what he would settle for, but he would never ever give up what he could have with her again. She pulled back to kiss the corner of his lips. 

He loves her. She smiled up at him but his eyes were closed and his face was warped with pleasure...and pain. Pain because he thought she didn't love him. 

Alin moaned as he started to speed up, taking her closer and closer to the edge, his cock touching her in all the right places. Her pussy was slick with arousal as he easily slid into her again and again. 

"Jared...!" 

Before long, he was spilling himself inside her, still driving into her until she too lost all control to the pleasure he was giving her. 

Jared slumped against Alin his head against hers. 

Who the fuck was he kidding? How the hell could this ever be enough? How could he make love to her, knowing that each time, she was only doing it because she owed him money, not because she loves him? How could he-

"I l-love you too..." 

It was so faint that Jared swore it was his imagination fucking with him. The softness in her eyes and the way she looked at him, it was something that was engraved into his mind forever. 

"I thought you...I-I really thought you could never love me again-"

He lifted her up with ease and she squeaked, actually squeaked in fear of him dropping her. Jared chuckled as he carried her; she wrapped both her arms around his neck still in fear. He paused and kissed her swollen lips. "Alin, I love you. These past five days... hell these past five years no one, no one I could ever care and love more than you, you were the one I always thought about."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

He carried her to the shower, though the distance was short, her eyes started to flutter sleepily. 

Turning on the shower, Jared led her in as he turned her round and soaped her back gently. She leaned against him and sighed in contentment, the sweet sound immediately made him hard. 

Feeling his hardness poking her, Alin reached behind and slowly stroked it, shuddering as he kissed the side of her neck, his hands cupping and shaping her heavy breasts. Lost in the sensation, Jared groaned as she began to stroke him faster. Wanting so badly to come inside her again, he pushed her against the cold tiles and entered her from behind. He held onto her hips and thrust hard and deep inside of her.

This was unlike anything she had experienced; it was hard, fast and exhilarating. Jared continued to thrust his hardness into her while his lips suckled gently on her soft skin. 

"Alin, Baby, I'm gonna come." He buckled, "F-Fuckkkk"

She helplessly held herself upright as he drove into her, the pleasure blocking her ability to do anything but feel every single wicked thing he did to her. 

He lost control. His testes twitching, his climax hitting him hard as he shot thick ropes of come inside her. 

Alin slumped against his hard body. 

After a few moments to regain his equilibrium, Jared held a sleepy Alin in his arms and started to lovingly wash her. She sighed dreamily, her eyes closed. Jared had his arm wrapped around her as they were stuck in a moment of tenderness. 

"I think it's time for us to get out...you're getting wrinkly." 

He towelled her dry and wrapped her up in his oversized bathrobe not wanting her to catch a chill. She half protested about him treating her like a child. But the way her lips curved up showing a hint of dimple, contradicted her words. He wrapped her in a towel, while he was naked.

"Hey put me down!" she gasped as Jared picked her up and walked towards their bed. 

He put her on the bed and immediately went with her, covering her. 

"Alin, I love you...I love you so damn much..." He whispered again and again. The words were so right. He didn't get to say it to her in these five years, and he'd wanted to say it so much so that he could make up for lost time. 

She giggled. "Stop, Jared. I get it." She poked him in the chest gently to emphasize her point, "You love me!"

Jared smiled lovingly at her, she was so damn cute, as she giggled.

"No, it's not enough-"

"Then show me." She whispered, though the challenging undertone was not lost on him. 

...And so he did. For the rest of the night he made love to her until they were both satisfied, falling asleep in each other's arms. She smiled: he certainly lived up to his promise of making love to her until she begged him to stop.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Alin woke first, knowing instantly it was likely going to be late morning. She actually ached everywhere- even there. The pleasure between her thighs did nothing to quell the giddy feeling inside her as she recalled when he had told her he loves her. He loves her. He loves me so damn much! 

It was the first time they had slept together all night and actually stayed in bed without one of them rushing off. He was still sound asleep as he spooned against her, one strong arm wrapped around her waist. 

Carefully she lifted his arm and moved out of his embrace. She put on his robe and looked back at his sleeping profile. The rush of love she felt for him couldn't be described. It felt so right, yet she was worried that happiness wouldn't last for her 

He may have proved to her he really cared but old habits were returning. She went out into the balcony and looked out into the brilliant skyline. Thoughts ran through her head, annoying voices telling her: would it last this time? Would happiness really last for her? Maybe she wasn't meant to be happy? It was always the same in her life: happiness would only last a few fleeting moments until she wasn't sure whether the experience was merely a delusion, whether she craved happiness so much she'd imagine it to be.

"You're not in bed?" she turned and was greeted by a half-naked Jared.

Jared wrapped his arm around her waist, kissing the column of her neck. His whispers made her tingle. 

"I-I was just...it's nearly 11." She shrugged her shoulders hoping he wouldn't ask any more questions.

He turned her round so that she was facing him, "Tell me."

"Last night..." she drifted off, regretting even bringing the subject up as he looked so seriously down at her. He probably forgotten about his 35 times declaration to her (she wasn't counting, promise) 

His frown suddenly turned into a warm smile. "I love you." He was now grinning at her as she looked at him in surprise.

"If you're asking if I meant it, I'm telling you now, I meant every word I said last night. I'm not one of those guys who say those words to get a woman in bed, in fact apart from my mom, I've never said it to any other girl. And besides I said it to my mom when I was five, so-" 

She flashed a toothy grin before standing on tiptoe and kissing him deeply. 

"Is that the best you could do after I just said that?" He picked her up, flinging her across his shoulders, caveman style, whilst she shrieked in alarm and excitement. 

"Hey put me down, y-you stupid... c-caveman."

"I'll show you what a real caveman's like" He chuckled as he dropped her on to the bed, then immediately putting both his arms on the bed, trapping her underneath him. 

"Don't you think yesterday we did it enough times?" 

"It'll never be enough." He whispered though the tone was no longer teasing but genuine. Alin gave into the kiss, kissing him back with the same urgency.

The phone rang suddenly. 

Jared groaned. Didn't the whole phone-ringing-and-ruining-the-sex-part only happen in movies? 

"Fuck. Baby, please don't pick it up." 

"It could be important! No one ever rings our home number unless it's important. Remember how Tom reached you on this number because you switched off your phone?

He growled, knowing she had a point, "I'll get you back. I swear, no phone calls later, you're staying here today- naked." Jared rolled off Alin and strolled towards the bathroom, groaning even louder as his cock twitched angrily.

Alin rolled her eyes. Laughing, she reached across the bedside table to pick up the phone, ignoring his protest. 

"Hello?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

The last words Jared caught of the conversation after coming out of the bathroom was Alin saying 'No, I'm busy -bye'

She hung up and stared into space, obviously distressed at whoever had called. It couldn't be Haltor? Jared panicked slightly, what the fuck was he up to? 

"Alin?" You 'kay? Who called?"

"It was my dad."

Jared felt bad that he was relieved. He clearly knew how much that scumbag Fanning upset Alin. But knowing it wasn't Haltor instantly made him relax. He sat down next to her, "What did he say?"

"H-he asked if we would like to go dinner tonight. I said 'no' so many times- like a broken record, then he tells me it's Sunday - family day. As if I've ever had that in the past ten years. Then he pulls my sister into it. Something about her missing me a lot. Even though we're not that close, she's still my sister, and he knows how much I care about her. Using her as a pawn. Anyway she's not even here. Every year she goes camping with her friends around this time. I seriously don't know what he wants this time."

He held onto her hand. "Alin, call him back. We'll go-"

"No, Jared, we both know why he called. 'Cause of you. He wants you to invest in his companies or whatever. It's money. It's always been about money for him."

"Baby, trust me on this one. Call him back."

"But-"

"Alin, trust me 'kay? It'll do you more good than harm. I promise you."

"Do you really think he wants to make amends with me? Jared, you don't know him like I do-"

"Baby, I know what he's up to, that's why we have to go." She frowned in confusion, "Trust me on this one." 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

"Fuck! Where the hell are the caterers? You said it'll all be ready for seven!" 

Timothy Fanning shouted in frustration. Why can't his wife ever do anything right without fucking things up? He had given her a whole day to sort out a meal, not that she could cook or do anything a woman should do. Timothy didn't know why the hell in God's mind he had married her. All she was adequately good at was being on her back, but even that she could no longer satisfy him compared to the young models half her age.

Her inability to think really pissed him off. Dumb bitch. She clearly didn't know how much this meant to him that Alin called back and both of them were coming. Timothy gambled on the fact that making this so last minute his daughter couldn't think of a way to cancel. His pray was obviously answered. 

"Yeah, I'm coming, Timmy, calm down! God! You're scaring Dolly!" she screeched indicating the Chihuahua. "It will be ready! It's only half six. It's not as if they'll be early-or even on time.

Timothy wanted to gag her. How the hell did he used to think her voice was even sexy? "Okay, okay, you're fucking annoying me now. Anyway did you order the wine like I told you?" 

Obviously annoyed at having to do everything, she stated, "I can't remember everything. Maybe."

"Don't fucking play with me now." He stated angrily.

"Look, this is costing us probably more than 10 thousand dollars, just in case you didn't know."

"It's my fucking money anyway! And you were the one that wanted this to happen! And the wines are Valentine's favourite. So I suggest if next time you want another diamond ring to show off to your bitches, you better shut your mouth, stop acting smart and listen to me." 

As if on cue the doorbell rang. A triumphant smile appeared on her face as their housekeeper opened the door for the caterers. "I hope you get your investment back." She left him at a loss for words. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

"Alin, honey, come here!" she felt uncomfortable as the woman embraced her tightly. "God, you know I always ask your daddy to give you a call but he's one stubborn man." 

Timothy shot daggers at his wife. She was really grating on his nerves. Moving on she pulled Jared into a hug. 

Jared could've sworn she winked at him. "Well, hello there..." she purred batting her eyelashes, "you must be my daughter's boyfriend. God, we're the same age aren't we?!" Jared rolled his eyes was the woman seriously flirting with him? She looked closer to early fifties with the botox, bleached blonde hair, fake tits and excessive make up. He glanced at Alin, sincerely hoping she wasn't angry with him, because there was no way he'd reciprocate her signals. 

Timothy put his arm round Jared as if they were best friends, "Come, son, I've prepared the best meal and the finest wine- even money can't buy in New York"

No matter what, her opinions hadn't changed. She couldn't forgive her father, she couldn't accept his wife. They were so...fake? Her high-pitched laugh, their constant need to outdo each other was something that really made Alin genuinely felt sorry for her sister. Being raised by parent like them was anything but tragic. 

Dinner was at best pleasant. Her father would consistently tell stories about her childhood to Jared, about how proud he was of her. It made her see him even more clearly. He was proud of her, only because she happens to 'date' millionaires. He was never there for her when her mom died, never there when she graduated, never there when she struggled with the debt. 

After dinner, Jared and Timothy moved the conversation to his study. Alin didn't know what to make of the situation. Jared wasn't enthusiastic to be in her father's company nor did it seem he hated it. She, on the other hand, was left with his wife. She babbled on about her perfect life, not realising her perfect life was the result of ruining one's family. 

"...I just think it's time we made amends. I mean, you're daddy loves me. We're in love. I'm so sorry that your mom had to choose that path, but honey let me tell you, you can't choose who you fall in love with, regardless if they're married-"

Alin stared at her in disbelief, unable to control her anger she cut her off angrily, "Shut up!"

"What the-"

"Shut up, you know what? You're a b-bitch! I don't want to pretend to be nice to you anymore. Looking at you w-with your stupid made up face and fake smile I just want to throw up."

Her fake smile was gone, shock stamped across her forehead, she stuttered, "W-who the hell do you think you're t-talking to? Don't forget I'm your stepmom. And fucking get over it, your mom died a long time ago-"

Alin slapped her hard across the face. "I can't believe you just said that. You're not my anything. You evil w-witch. Everything you have is my MOM's. But good luck to you because that man," she pointed to the study, "will never be capable of loving someone. Sooner or later he will trade you in for a younger woman. He doesn't love anyone but himself!"

It was her turn to look at Alin in disbelief. Never did she expect this from her. She was supposed to be a doormat, a pushover like her stupid mother. She left the room, clutching the side of her face Alin slapped, hoping Timothy better get something out of this otherwise she'll slap the shit out of him for putting her through this pain.

Alin stayed sitting on the couch. She couldn't believe what she had done, but it felt so good. She had never accepted the woman, but as much as she disliked her, it was her father she couldn't stand, because he played the biggest part in hurting her mom. Coming here today really hurt. This was the house she grew up in and to see everything changing around her really showed how insignificant her mom and she meant to her father. She was frustrated with Jared for making her come today; did he not understand how much her father had hurt her in the past?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Meanwhile in the study, Timothy couldn't have been happier to be rid of his stupid daughter and finally talk business with Jared, "Son, you know I'm so glad we're family now. I've never liked John Haltor much, he never deserved Alin. You know I've told her countless times that Haltor was never good enough for her, didn't listen to me, but you know what-?" He handed a glass of wine to Jared, "I'm so glad she's finally seen sense. After her mother's death she hadn't been herself- blaming me for it. But you know I love her too much to be angry with her."

Jared laughed inside, wondering how long he had practised this speech. This man was fucking unbelievable. He knew how manipulative and fucked up Timothy is. And that was the reason why he came today, to tell him his fate.

"...So, anyway enough talk about the past- it's all behind us right? Son, I think you have a lot of potential. I know you used to be a professional investor before BankSafe, and seeing as I've got a new project going on, I'd like to give you a chance to be on-board-"

His words cut short as Jared's rich laughter cut in. He couldn't hold it in any longer

Jared studied his glass of wine, "Fanning, you're one deluded fucker. I'm so sorry that Alin's related to you." Jared swished his glad of wine and inhaled the rich aroma before taking a gulp, the bittersweet taste sliding down his throat easily. Timothy remained motionless and speechless, seemingly shocked at Jared's words. Jared finally looked up at him, "signing your daughter away to debtors. Making her pay $5million? How the hell do you think she was ever going to be able to pay that? Marry Haltor? You sad fuck."

He pretended to look surprised "I didn't make her pay $5million, it was- um it was her mom's debt-" Timothy was cut off sharply by Jared

"-Do you think I'm fucking stupid like you?" He leaned closer, "Do you know that $5million? Do you know why you were allowed to borrow that much with no questions asked? Or why sometimes the people didn't come knocking on your door? Because YOU owe me."

He let the words sink in. Suddenly Timothy realized, "Y-you played me you motherfucker!" he hissed.

"Well that's one way of putting it." Jared smirked, "But you know what makes it even funnier? The fact that you think people around you are fucking stupid and they believe this façade you've created. You standing there and pretending to be a great father- you make me fucking sick." Jared continued, "You really think I came here do listen to your pathetic business pitch? Even if you had the best idea in the world, I would never work with someone like you!"

"Fuck you. She was a spoilt brat anyway. I raised her, what's wrong with her paying me back?"

Jared chuckled sarcastically, "You're good, you know that? How that fucking brain of yours work and the logic that you come up with really baffles me. But I'm glad you called today, because if you didn't call I would've totally forgotten about the $5million YOU owe me."

"You-"

"Yeah YOU owe me. As a matter of fact it's not $5million is it? With interests for the past few years, the sum is closer to $7.5million. But since we're family as you always say, I'll knock off .5, and we'll shake our hand on $7million. You know if you weren't so greedy, if you treated Alin like your daughter, you wouldn't be in this position today. $7million is nothing to me-"

Timothy felt his temper rise. This was not how he pictured today would go. "So, you listen to that whore now?" He spat out and then sneered at Jared, "Didn't think you were a man to be so easily pussy whipped. Defending that stupid brat. You know I bet in order to pay for the debt she opened her legs so many times to Haltor, you're just fucking a used pussy-"




Not What It Seems Ch. 09



Before he could finish a sharp pain hit his face- Jared was so angry he punched Timothy hard. He spat blood out, whimpering in pain and was about to retaliate, when Jared grabbed hold of his hands and put him in a lock. 

"Don't you ever say that about her you lowlife." He warned before pushing him onto the floor. Timothy groaned in pain as his back hit the floor.

Jared walked towards the door, "The money you owe me, I'll collect every last penny starting today. You fall behind payment, interests will keep increasing. You can forget about that knocked off .5, you can carry on paying me with $7.5million with interest. Don't say you have no money. I've got people who can find this out for me. And don't try to use her sister as a pawn to manipulate her kindness. I see right through you. And before I forget don't you fucking dare sell stories about anything to the media, because if you do, I guarantee you I'll ruin you. The fact that you're Alin's father will mean nothing. I'll take care of her sister and throw you and that wife of yours out of this house before the print is out."

"Are you threatening-"

"I'm not threatening you, I'm telling you. Just remember I never say things I don't mean. And if you think you can get away with not paying me, you can fucking think again. " He opened the door and left.

Timothy was left stunned to the core. 

Jared left the study and found Alin alone in the living room. 

"Come, Alin we have to go." He grabbed her hand and left abruptly. 

Timothy was seething as he downed his wine in one. "What the hell happened here?" his wife quizzed as she entered the room. "Where's that little bitch and Jared?"

"Don't ask." He replied curtly 

"She slapped me! That little whore slapped me."

Timothy laughed bitterly, "Well about time someone has." He knew this time Jared was serious, he picked up the phone ready to dial John Haltor's number, but then suddenly stopped, remembering Jared's warning. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

"Jared, what happened?" 

They were silent all the way through the car journey; Alin was afraid to ask him as he remained quiet with a thunderous expression. When they got home he sat her down.

"I'm sorry." He whispered quietly. Jared felt like killing her father, but the realization that he acted just like him a few months ago made it that much more painful. He was angry but more so at himself. The words weren't easy to say. He thought he was never wrong. 

"Jared-" 

"Alin, I'm so sorry..." he began but not knowing how to finish it. The words and his past actions not only shamed him, but voicing it out loud made him realize how fucked up he treated her "for using the $5million..." he didn't know how to continue, as shame washed over him, he might be still upset and sceptical over her betrayal in the past, but using the money against her was no better than the way her father treated her. "I shouldn't have done what I did, and if I could change it all I would. I'm no better than him. I can't believe you had someone like that as your father. And I used his betrayal to my advantage, I'm sorry. Can you ever f-forgive me for the way I treated you?" 

She paused. There was no doubt that she loves him, but would giving him a second chance mean a second time for heart break? She looked at him and could see the regret in his eyes. 

"I forgive you." She hugged him as hot tears slid down her cheeks, she whispered softly, "Promise me you'll never h-hurt me again. Please because it would b-break me. 

He held her in his arms and kissed her forehead affectionately, "I'm sorry. I love you so much. I'll never hurt you again. Alin please don't cry...beautiful girls crying turn me on."

Alin laughed and cried. Jared used his finger tips to wipe away her tears. 

"By the way what happened in the study?"

He hesitated, "I may have hit your father-"

"What?"

"You're angry?"

"No!" she laughed, "actually I also... I slapped his wife. I can't believe I slapped her. It felt so good. It was long due but I never expected I'd do it."

"You slapped her? No way! Better not get in your way. Underneath your innocent exterior lies a pretty feisty woman." He winked at her 

"I know it sounds wrong but you hitting him actually makes me so happy."

"And what do I get now that I've done it?" 

She pulled back from his embrace and smiled at him, her eyes rolling, "Is sex all you think about?"

He smiled down at her, "No, just with you."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Monday morning came too quick. Jared woke up to the smell of bacon, eggs, toast and coffee. How perfect can one's life get? What did he do to deserve someone like her? He was half way through his breakfast when Alin blurted out, "Jared...um Steven Daniels called."

Alin had thought about the best way to put it across to him. But with everything that happened this weekend she had forgotten to mention it. The look on his face made her realize why she shouldn't have told him.

Jared stopped eating his breakfast. That name along with John Haltor was something he'll unlikely forget, "What does he want?" he stated bluntly, not looking at her. 

"He asked if Ryan and I wanted to work on a project-"

"Is this the only thing he said to you?" Jared's tone was calm and cool, but no doubt dangerous.

"He..."

"Is this the only thing he said to you?" he repeated, now looking up at her. 

"He did say he wanted to g-get to know me better-"

"You're not working with him."

"No, I told him what my relationship is with you. He understood, and now he truly just wants to work with the company."

"No." he went back to his breakfast. Dismissing her. 

Alin was beyond angry now. "So we're really going back to this now? You dictating my life again?"

He got up and moved closer to her, "Fuck, Alin, don't you see it? He's only employing you-"

She gasped in shock, "Don't say something you'll regret." She held up her hand in frustration, "Why is it that the whole world thinks I have the ability to make it, but the person I love always, always thinks I have to sleep my way to the top."

"That's not what I mean-"

"But it's what you wanted to say! You said last night you didn't want to hurt me again."

"Don't use that against me!" He paced up and down in frustration "I'm trying to fucking protect you!"

"I'm not nineteen! I'm not stupid and naïve either. You know it's not even protecting me," She sighed, "you just want to control me, that's always been it...why can't you ever trust me?"

"It's them I don't trust!" 

Alin gathered her jacket, bag and folder, "I'm not going to argue with you. Because whatever it is, you always think you're right." She stated and left him without a backward glance.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Jared arrived at his office in a foul mood, even calling off the press conference and interview due in the afternoon. He sat down and looked at the documents waiting for him to sign. He was reading it, but nothing was actually registering. Why was he the only who saw it? Why is it that she never understood his point of view? He was angry, but also a little at himself, though he'd never admit it. He could just pretend to accept it, but now she was mad at him for caring about her! He didn't understand women, probably never will. 

His secretary came round the door as he massaged his head.

"Mr Valentine, Miss Naomi's here." 

Jared perked up a little. Naomi would solve all the problems for him. Naomi was the female version of him. She was ruthless and callous in her dealings, but also damn faithful. He owed Naomi a lot for what she had done for him. She had helped him trace the accounts of the two executives who swindled money out of the company five years ago as Jared didn't want to get authorities involved. After that she also helped out when BankSafe was on the verge of collapse, and now he was about to ask her for a bigger favour.

She smiled as she entered his office. "Congratulations Jared, everyone is buzzing about your takeover of Media One. So tell me why the sudden need to see me, eh? Miss your old friend, that much?"

Jared laughed at Naomi words. She was the only one who could lift his mood and not piss him off. Her flirtatious manner and charisma was not directed at him, but it was just in her nature. He had met her four years ago... though that's entirely another story. Now at the age of twenty-two, he was proud of what she'd become. 

"Naomi, your flirtatious manner will one day get you in trouble, still single?"

"Well tell your hot friend Ryan to call me then," She winked at him while he snorted in mock sarcasm. "Anyway, what can I be of service today Mr Valentine? Hate to say it, but your life would be at a loss without me!"

"Yeah, you'd like to think that." He handed a folder to her, "There are a few people I need you to check for me."

She scanned through the list and looked up at him in confusion, "Look I normally just do the job and not question you, but why are you checking up on him?" she pointed to a name on the list.

"I have my reasons. I just need you to access his bank accounts, credit card statement, phone records... the usual. I'll get my answers once you give me the information." 

She shrugged her shoulders as if to say whatever, and then carried on looking at the list. "W-wait why would you need to know about Steven Daniels? His dad's in real estate."

"Naomi, why am I not surprised you know that?" 

She laughed, "Just so you know, I have a whole database of the world's most eligible bachelors, so everyone that runs in your circle, I'd know about. Why'd you want to know about him, you're in the technology business, he's in real estate..."

She smirked. "It must be something to do with that pretty girlfriend of yours." 

Jared held up his hand in mock surrender, "Okay, okay smartass. Yeah, he called her up- long story short he wants her to work for him, and I don't trust him."

"I'm warning you, Jared, your girlfriend's not going to like it if she finds out-" 

"She's not going to find out."

"Fine, don't say I didn't tell you so. Anyway, I'm just a recent graduate, so I've shitloads of things going on. And nowadays it's not that easy to run checks, you know with all the increase security and firewall shit. Just want to remind you that the process is long."

"No problem. Naomi, I owe you so much." He was genuinely grateful for her help.

She smiled at him sweetly, "Don't worry you're billed for every second I spend on this." 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Alin screwed up the second piece of prototype she tried to draw up. Her day was definitely going from bad to worst. Her creativity diminishing by the second. Damn Jared!

She was in the throes of self-pity, when Ryan popped his head round the door and gave her a disapproving sigh. 

"What the hell happened here?"

"I'm just really stuck." 

Ryan came into the room and slumped himself on the chair opposite her. Arching a brow, he stated, "Really? Come on Alin, can you really not trust me?"

She narrowed her eyes in suspicion, "Hallie told you? 

"Well..."

"And she's supposed to be my best friend. God, I'm never telling her anything!"

"Oh come on Alin, as if I'd not find out or at least guessed eventually. I've know your jealous boyfriend since we were in high school, as if I wouldn't know him well enough."

"So you agree with me too?" She shook her head, "I just don't understand why he's so controlling."

"Of course I agree with you! I persuaded you to work with Daniels. But not the controlling part- it's a men thing. Our ego takes precedence over common sense I'm afraid."

She sighed, "You know that's exactly why I didn't tell him about meeting with John-"

"But he does have a point though. I mean come on that fucker really were trying to come on to you."

"If he had trusted me just a little bit more I'd never do stuff behind his back! Am I really naive? Maybe I'll just have to live with him never trusting me."

"Honey, no I don't think you're naïve. I think you're too trusting and there's a difference. People can say shit about you, but trusting someone is not naïve. You just have a good heart. When you put trust someone, whatever they do you'll subconsciously justify it for them, even if it's wrong. It's those fucking pricks like Haltor taking advantage of you."

Ryan held her hand in his, "As for Jared...sometimes he's just used to being getting what he wants. I'm telling you, he's met his match in you. He's so used to getting his own way, with girls who's after his money hanging onto his every word. You challenge him; he's never had that before. Everyone is scared of the almighty Jared; well of course he'd like to think that, so just give it time. Don't back down. Show him what you're made off, and if he doesn't like that, tell him he can talk to your good ol' boss." He left her hand and patted her on the head affectionately.

"I thought he was your friend?" She asked smiling.

"He is, but if he's acting like a dick, I have to interfere, don't I? Can't let him bully my best architect." He winked as she laughed. 

She stood up and hugged him, "Thanks, did anyone say you're the best? Because believe me, if I was single I'll totally chase after you." She teased jokingly.

He snorted, "Hey, so it's that 'nice guy' line I always hear. You know that stupid line girls always feed me," he put on a high pitched voice, 'I like you Ryan you're such a nice guy, why is it that I always attract the bad ones.' Girls." He rolled his eyes.

"Not every girl likes bad guys, the right one's probably just waiting for you to save her." 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Alin purposely took longer than expected to go home. She was still angry and confused at the way he still treated at her. It wasn't as if she didn't understand where he was coming from but it was frustrating that it seemed everything she did or wanted to do have to get his seal of approval. 

She turned the key, opening the door and before she stepped inside, a strong burning smell invaded her. Panic set in.

What the hell was going on?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Fuck! Jared hissed. What the hell was he doing? He was glad she wasn't back yet to witness how stupid this idea was. The whole morning he had struggled to accept that he was wrong, but he knew that Alin was right; he did want to control her. It wasn't because he was chauvinist...okay maybe a little, but he was afraid of losing her. The truth was he came from a poor background and was not college educated, unlike Alin's many suitors. Losing her to Haltor had made him really feel inadequate, like he wasn't good enough for her. This was something he liked to keep to himself, even from Ryan, it was better to let people think of him as some kind of callous bastard rather than see his insecurities. 

He sighed. Cooking was definitely not his forte. He looked around at the storm he created in the kitchen and thought maybe now was the time to clean up the before she came back and saw the mess he had made. 

"What's going on?" Alin followed the burning smell to the kitchen, and was shocked to see Jared there in...an apron?

Jared knew how stupid he looked, and was actually afraid to turn round to face her. 

"I was...cooking."

Alin stifled down her laughter, "What are you trying to make?" Jared took out whatever he was making out of the oven, which obviously explained the burning smell. 

"What is that?" she giggled. 

"It was supposed to be lemon cake, before it burned- stop laughing it's not funny."

She stopped and realized what he was trying to do. "Lemon cake's my favourite." 

He took off his oven gloves and walked towards her and pulled her to him, "Alin, I'm sorry for how I reacted today. It's not you I don't trust- it's them." he leaned his forehead against hers, "I don't want to lose you again." His voice laced with uncertainty. 

She looked at him, tears glazing her eyes, "Why is it that whenever I'm angry with you, you always do something...y-you always do something like this." She whispered. 

"Because I love you." He angled her lips to his so that he could kiss her. His arms still wrapped round hers.

Suddenly Alin pulled away from the kiss and looked around the kitchen. Stifling a laugh, she stated "I'm sorry coming home today and seeing you in an apron with gloves on just about did it for me." She laughed even more, "it suits you- you look really domestic. I wonder what people who think Jared Valentine as some alpha male will think. Can't wait until I tell Ryan this!"

He narrowed his eyes, "That's it payback time." And with that he kissed her tenderly before picking her up so that she could wrap her legs around him.

"Wait- it's such a mess in the kitchen, shouldn't we tidy it up first?"

He arched an eyebrow, "seriously? Cleaning the kitchen now? No, I'll arrange for someone to do it tomorrow," he placed her on their bed, covering her, "I promise from now I'll never stop you when it comes to your career. I guess I'm not used to not being the one to look after someone. I'm just afraid that- that someone will take you away from me. You're too good for me and I- "

"No," she whispered, "you're everything I've ever wanted. Other men can do whatever they want, but it won't mean anything, because I'm yours."

Jared smiled at her words and held her tighter in his arms, "Alin, wherever you want to go to work, be it China, Brazil, India, or wherever your career takes you, I'll make it work, damn I'll go with you."

She looked at him with humour in her eyes, "A workaholic like you? As I recall someone's going to Beijing on Thursday for a week. At this rate, I'll be accompanying you."

"Well," he started to use one hand to undo the buttons of her blouse, whilst his lips linger on hers, "I guess for now, we'll just have to make do. As for a week in Beijing," He groaned, "Do you know how hard that's going to be?" 

He unzipped her tight pencil skirt and tugged it off. He started to trace his hand on her wet pussy, her lacy black panties acting as the only barrier, "I guess I'll just have to get myself off while I lie in bed thinking of you...or I'll call you up and listen to you touch your wet pussy like last time. Do you remember how good it felt?" Jared watched as she nodded helplessly, his hand playing havoc with her every sense. "Did it feel good because you knew how fucking horny I was listening to you masturbate? Listening to you finger fucking your wet pussy?" Alin bit her lip as his finger applied even more pressure on her clit, his words driving her crazy. 

"You know what I haven't done in a long time?" He took off her panties and using one finger he traced his finger softly along her slit, collecting the honey that leaked from her pussy. He licked it off, sucking his fingers until every last trace of it was gone. 

Alin couldn't control her breathing. He gently opened her legs never breaking eye contact from her, "I want to taste you-"

And before Alin even registered what he said, he buried his face in her wet pussy and started to lick each fold, Alin held onto the sheets and started to twist it, as the sensations continued to build and build. Before long he buried his tongue even deeper, pulling out and then repeating. 

"Oh Jared...it feels so good. So good..." she moaned his name again and again, wanting this to never end, but also craving the release so badly.

Jared pulled back slightly to watch her in the throes of passion. To him, she was beautiful whatever she was doing. But right now he had never seen anything as erotic and beautiful than watching her passion come alive. It made it that much sweeter that he knew no other man will ever see her like that. He used his finger to trace light circles around her clit, keeping her on the edge, but not yet giving her the release she craved.




Not What It Seems Ch. 09



"You know when I was away, all I thought of was tasting you. Hear you scream my name like you're doing now. Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?"

Suddenly, Alin got up and pushed him onto the bed almost forcefully, and as it was so unexpected Jared fell onto the bed with no resistance. She got on top of him, straddling his thigh, her eyes filled with lust, need and love.

"I knew you would tease me." she said in frustration, almost anger, "So I'm going to take what I want!" she started to lower herself onto his cock, taking him deep inside her. 

Jared rolled his eyes as her wet tight pussy fit his cock so perfectly. He threw his head back as Alin started to grind herself on his hard cock. The pressure on her clit was too much; she lifted herself up and went down, holding onto her breast whilst riding him.

Jared couldn't believe the sight in front of him. A few months ago she was a virgin, and now she had the power to bring him to his knees. Her passion matched his, and she never shied away from his touches, she initiated it, she needed it as much as he did. 

He couldn't take it anymore, he was so close yet he could tell she was exacting revenge, purposely taking it slow just to give him a taste of his own medicine. 

Alin smiled mischievously down at him as she leaned in closer to him. He licked her hard nipples, sucking it while she continued to lower herself. Jared was so close and he could feel from the way she increased her pace and the way she clenched and unclenched round him that she was too. 

Slipping both his hand around her waist, Jared suddenly held onto her so that he could roll her over. Before she knew it, she was underneath him. He grinned roguishly at her, and leaned down to capture her lips, his arms wrapped around her. He thrust into her deep and slow, wanting to savour the feeling, even though he wanted so badly to come. 

"Alin, I want to come, baby I-" he increased his thrusts, growling as he shook with the pleasure her body was giving him. 

The wild streak in his expression as he fought his climax and the way he held her close touching her so intimately sent Alin over the edge, and before she knew it she trembled violently as her orgasm made her moan so loud she briefly wondered if the whole of New York could hear her.

He couldn't hold back, "I love you, Alin, I love you." He growled his release while still holding her tightly. Slumping on top of her, Jared still couldn't believe why when they made love it was so perfect. He had always thought of sex as a form of release, but with her it was nothing but love and passion. Her soft breathing indicated that she was drifting off.

Jared rolled off of her and watched as his come dripped down her thigh. He smiled, hoping they had conceived a child, because when he comes back from Beijing, the first thing he was planning to do was propose to her. Bringing her closer to him, he pulled the covers over their cooling bodies, As sleep claimed him, the last thing on his mind was praying that luck would be with him the second time round.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

"I'm going to miss you." Alin hugged him, trying to delay time, somehow thinking that if she held onto him for long enough he would miss his flight. 

The dynamic of their relationship changed ever since he came back from California. The fact that he loves her was a big bonus, but aside from that, the first time they were together they were both not ready for a committed and serious relationship. Looking back, as strange as it sounds it was a relief it didn't work out, otherwise they wouldn't have been able to appreciate their marriage as she was too young and he too stubborn to actually sustain a lasting and happy marriage.

But now Alin knew him better. She had never seen a gentle side to him, but in the last couple of days, when he held her in his arms each night it felt right, it felt truly amazing to be loved by someone. 

"Baby, I'll be back in a week, it's not going to be that long." He said it more to reassure himself than her. It was going to be long. No doubt about that, if five days apart drove him crazy, seven days was unimaginable. Tom looked on slightly amused at seeing a different side to his boss.

Jared ignored him, and taking the sign, he went to buy a drink.

"I love you," kissing her forehead, he moved out of her embrace. "Baby, before I forget a business client's wife is hosting a dinner party. His wife is a chairman for a children's' charity and he asks that I come along, so we could discuss business and make his wife happy. I think it's a day after I come back. Its usual business affair, stuffy shit, but I'm afraid I have to attend, you free to come with me?"

She nodded, "If it's raising awareness for a charity it'll be great if I attend."

He leaned down to kiss her, this time it was a lingering kiss, "I have such a perfect girlfriend- beautiful and kind hearted, what did I ever do to deserve you?" He cupped her face, seeing tears in her eyes. "You'll be the only one I think about." 

After an exhausting flight, Jared was in his presidential suit. The last time he was in Beijing was shortly after his split with Alin. Tao Zhang had promised to recuperate his loss and also to repay for the time in Vegas. Jared remembered the wild days and though they were something he enjoyed very much, he hoped Tao didn't intend to take him down memory lane tomorrow. After all, Alin was the one he truly cared about and there was no way he was going to betray her trust. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Like Jared, Tao Zhang started out as a professional investor and had his hands in anything from food and beverages to retail chains. Now, he was a major owner in a SOE in telecommunications and financial advisory company. Both were very influential companies.it didn't hurt that Zhang also dabbled in real estate. 

Likewise, Jared fared well. Apart from BankSafe, he owned stakes in many American and European telecommunications company. It went both ways. Jared wanted to enter the Asian market, Tao Zhang wanted to dabble in the American and European market. They were essentially helping each other.

If it were based on finance and influential status, Tao would have chosen to work with John Haltor, but unfortunately that was not what he wanted. Jared's company had the potential to grow and were full with people who were risk takers. On the other hand, Haltor Corporation was conservative and likely to want full say in the direction of the company, something Tao Zhang knew would be trouble if they were to co-operate. 

"Valentine! How long has it been? Four years? If I didn't insist you come, our deal would have been closed over a damn conference call!" 

Jared laughed, giving Tao a friendly handshake, "I'm here aren't I? Tom-" He gestured to the other man, "Tao Zhang, your new boss."

He laughed, "Jared, you fucker. Listen, tonight since none of us are married here, I'm taking us to the wildest part of Beijing."

"Business?"

"Business will take about three days- going over the fine print of those contracts. Another few days for press conferences and celebrations. That leaves us a day or two days to get high as fuck, and you can delay your flight indefinitely. Come on, what happened to the Jared I know? Four years ago you were ready to fuck."

"I'm in a committed relationship."

"You're still with her?" Tao arched his brows in surprise, "You know I was surprised about that. Never thought for one second you would be brought down by one woman. Don't get me wrong though, she's beautiful. Fuck it. She's fucking hot. Saw reports on it. Can see why you can't leave her alone. You're a disappointment, but hey more woman for me. Anyway, I've got your novice here"

"9am tomorrow I've got my attorney with me. We can discuss the contracts- and Tom I expect you here promptly."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

John flicked through the photos, marvelling how great they looked. He downed the glass of wine, and poured himself another, "Tell me, who the hell did you hire? I love it. I love how fucking good we look. You know you're worth every damn penny I pay for" John took another sip of his $15,000 red wine that he and Alin didn't finish that night. Even the bitter taste now seemed unbelievably sweet.

"Glad to be of service." 

"You know Charles, you've finally done something good for me, and you've finally proved to me why Valentine still keeps shit like you on his fucking leash." He sniggered, "Anyway I'm attending some business dinner next week- Friday I think. I know that cocksucker and Alin are definitely going. I want the pictures out on Monday. You know what I want. Money as usual will be generous and deposited to your account the following week."

He hung up and continued to study the photos. If there was a definition of picture perfect, they were. They looked like models...they looked like they were so in love. The picture of him putting his arm around her waist and one on her thigh, while he whispered in her ear... he couldn't believe how convincing it looked even to him. Anyone seeing the photos would instantly know he was fucking her. 

I love Jared. I've never stopped loving him

John snorted, seeing these pictures would definitely prove to Valentine 'how much she loves him'. He couldn't wait for the pictures to come out. For every newspaper and magazine to see how much she wanted him. John smirked. Wasn't life just so perfect when money can buy you that level of entertainment?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

"Anyone ordered delivery?"

Alin looked up from her work, the lamp the only source of light and saw Hallie. "You're a star." Hallie smile and handed her the bag, "I'm so hungry." She only managed to grab a small bagel at lunch and it was now past half eight.

"Woah, stop you'll burn yourself!"

"I'm sorry but you're probably the best cook I know!" Alin slurped the pasta nosily, "you make simple pasta nice. God I don't know how you do it. I've always thought you were either going to be a chef or fashion designer-"

Alin stopped suddenly; the words didn't come out right. Hallie was deep in thought.

"I didn't mean it that way. If you had focused on a career you would've never had two beautiful children-"

"But do you think I could go back to it all?" Hallie whispered meekly.

"Fashion design?"

Hallie sighed, "I've been thinking really hard lately. Obviously Penny and Alex are still young, but if I could find someone to look after them whenever I'm in classes' maybe it could work."

Alin nodded in agreement, while trying to digest the too hot pasta, "Go for it! Hals, it has always been your dream to go into fashion design. I remember your first year college project for your bridal collection. It was so amazing. Forget Vera Wang, Valentino, or whatever. I'm thinking Hallie Blanc. Isn't that great?" 

"But am I not too old for it?"

Alin took her hand in hers, "Hallie you're twenty four. How's that old? As a matter of fact if you graduated a few years back, the fashion industry may not have taken you seriously; you know how young designers are viewed."

"You're the best, A. You're the only one who I could really talk to. Mom and dad have always said that marrying Jack was the best thing to happen to me. Jack? He would never agree to it. But you know what I really don't care what he thinks. I'm not putting this first. Being a mother will always be my priority. I know it sounds stupid and I haven't even been accepted, no, I haven't even applied anywhere but the thought really excites me. "

"I can see the smile on your face. Hallie, I've never seen you look this happy!"

It was true. At first Hallie had thought wanting to go back was just a phase and that she was probably sub-consciously using the whole fashion design thing as a decoy for her unhappiness. Then she felt incredibly guilty for not putting her children first. 

Hallie smiled, "I've got all the forms but I just really needed the moral support." she hugged her friend; she looked at Alin in amusement, "Wait, what did you say about Vera Wang and Valentino?"

"Huh?" realization dawned, "Oh that. Yeah I said your brand should be called Hallie Blanc."

"Hallie Blanc?" she laughed. "Why Blanc?"

"W-well you know things with a French and Italian touch to it usually sells kind of well, so Blanc is white in French, and I remembered your college profile was full of pretty, lacy and bridal inspired designs so I thought Blanc would be suiting and-?" Alin stopped rambling when she saw Hallie's laughter turn into tears suddenly.

"Hals I'm sorry. Did I day something wrong? Please don't cry-"

"No, I'm just grateful for the support. N-no one ever s-supports me the way you do. You're the only one who believes in me"

It was true. Her mom and dad had told her to stop chasing a stupid dream. And that marrying Jack was enough blessing. And Jack had refused to let her go back to college and warned her she better not embarrass him and fuck things up. With Alin's support she didn't care what anyone else thought.

"Hals that's what friends are for. And besides...you have to design my wedding dress for me..."

Hallie wiped the tears and grinned at her friend. "Jared proposed?!"

"Well, he didn't but we...these past few weeks have really changed for us. I don't want to deny it any longer, I love him Hal...and he told me he loves me so damn much!"

"That wedding dress is on me." Hallie said happily, knowing Alin's marriage will be nothing like hers.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

"It's not that I don't want to actively involve myself in the projects but it's not viable for me to take on something new and fuck up the current client base we have." Ryan wanted so badly to involve himself in the chains of luxury hotels the Daniels Group commissioned to them, but it just didn't work out like that. Taking in Alin's shock expression, he knew this was not going down well.

"If you're out, then so am I." Alin stated.

"No, A, I'll still be involved in it. Daniels is most interested in you and he's happy for me to take a back seat and oversee the projects. I got off the phone with him a few days ago and he told me with all the red tape surrounding the project in China, the projects won't be officially planned till a few months' time. I have a few projects myself going on and you're nearing the end of some of yours, so it's best if you're actively involved in this rather than me. I can't let my attention be divided."

"But I don't know if I can handle it on my own." Alin asked, really doubting the fact that she could do it on her own. 

"Come off it. You're twenty-four. Do you know how many people look up to you? Hell in this firm many junior architect would love to have your creativity and logic. Have more confidence in yourself. Daniels is not just hiring you 'cause you have a pretty face, he knows you're good at what you do. Besides, I'll be here to support you. Daniels doesn't require you to give him an answer straight away."

"I'll think about it." Alin stated, though the commitment was something she was doubtful about.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Earlier in the day, Jared had used his free time to shop around. There was only one thing on his mind, which was to buy an engagement ring for Alin. He had stopped at many places but now somehow found himself in an independent jeweller. 

"Mr Valentine, this is our newest design." She opened the box for him to see, "All our designers are either college students are graduates, I assure you, you won't see anything similar. Tiffany and Cartier may be global, but in my opinion, it's overproduced and the design is not as creative as ours."

Jared took the ring out of the box and closely examined the details. It was indeed beautiful, the quality was second to none and he was certain that he wouldn't find it anywhere else. His expertise was merely down to experience; he had been an avid client of Tiffany, Cartier, and Harry Winston when the girls he used to date would pout and smile for him to add to their collection. Alin deserved better. 

"I'll take it." Jared took out his card and handed it to the excited girl. He knew exactly what engagement ring he'd give her, this one would just be a souvenir. 

Now, Jared sat at the bar and drank his shot. He glanced at his watch: three am. It was three o'clock in the afternoon in New York. He wanted to give Alin a call but he knew she was in a meeting. Tonight Tao had dragged him out, another of his many excuses to party. The club was vibrant, flamboyant and with many people looking for hook ups. Jared had an aura about him that made people know he was important. That was a good quality to have, yet it meant he received many propositions from young, single women. Tao rolled his eyes at him.

"That's the fifth girl you've turned down. That chick was fucking hot." 

Jared smiled at him but remained speechless and took a gulp from his drink. 

"You know those girls thought you were gay." 

Jared laughed out loud, "Oh fuck it, not that it's any of your business but I went out to buy a ring today."

Tao arched his eyebrows, "My oh my, you really have changed. I can't say for better or for worst but hey, who am I to judge? Someone finally tying you down eh? Getting engaged doesn't mean you can't have some fun though..."

"You just don't quit do you?" Jared stated but in good nature.

He snorted, "I just can't imagine why anyone in their right mind under the age of forty-five would want to get married. Listen, tabs all on me tonight, but I gotta run," he gestured to the girl in his arm. He leaned closer to him, smiling mischievously, "Tomorrow we carry on where we left off, and think of it as a pre-celebration for your engagement."

Jared lifted his glass to him, "Have a good night, I'll see you at the press conference tomorrow morning."

He was walking out of the club as he dialled Alin's number. "Hey baby, you okay? How's everything going with the Daniels' contract?" The club was a few minutes' walk from his hotel. 

"Jared?" he smiled at her sweet voice. "We've just had a meeting about it actually-" she heard the loud music slowly fade in the background. "A lot of red tape surrounding some of the projects and Ryan is only overseeing the projects, so I'm not sure if I really want to accept it."

If he was perfectly honest, Jared wasn't 100% happy about it. But one thing he was sure was that Alin was really talented. He could manipulate her and tell her how big a project it is and her inability to handle it. Five years ago he would have done that; anything to stop her and stop other men from 'taking' her away from him. 

"Babe, you're talented and creative. Daniel's would be stupid not to hire you. With or without Ryan you'd still be the best person he's ever hired."

"You really think that?" To hear him say the words really touched her. 

"I'm not saying that because I love you, I'm saying it because I know you're the best. You shouldn't doubt yourself so much. Oh and throw in the fact that you're the second hardest working person I know-"

"Who's the first?" 

"Do you really have to ask? Me of course. Wait, no I take it back you're third."

"What?! Who's second then?" 

"Ryan."

She chuckled, "Fine, but you've just proved to me, both of you actually don't have a life. "Anyway, um where are you. It's nearly four am in Beijing."

"Tao dragged me out today to a club." He didn't mention part strip club...because it was a white lie and she didn't really need to know that, because nothing happened. "I'm back at the hotel now. It's good that the hotel is so close to all the night life."

"Oh..." he could detect the hesitation in the tone of her voice.

He flopped onto the bed, phone in one hand. Though he was exhausted, sleep was the last thing on his mind. "Alin nothing happened. When you have the perfect girl waiting for you at home. Dressed in lingerie and cooking you the best meal, no other girl can really compare to that. And besides, you're not just any girl. You're my girl and I'm you're guy."




Not What It Seems Ch. 09



"That is the lamest thing I've heard." She said but they both knew she wasn't telling the truth because he could hear the smile in her voice "And may I clarify, I was NOT wearing lingerie when I was cooking. It's a health and safety hazard."

He couldn't help but chuckle, "Okay fine, you weren't but whatever you wear it has the same effect on me. Hell if you were wearing a bin bag, it'll still make me horny-"

"So..." Alin lowered her voice, suddenly feeling really daring, "Have you missed me? Has it been as hard for you as it had been for me?"

He didn't like where this was going. Sleep definitely now far from his mind. "Baby, don't do this to me." Jared said and she could hear the strain in his voice.

"I was licking a strawberry lollypop today...and I thought about how much I'd like to put something bigger and harder in my mouth." He hitched his breath, "I really want to suck your big wet cock, tracing my tongue all around the head, while my hand stroke the sides..." Alin felt herself growing wet. She wanted to take the upper hand like he had last time on the phone, but she was getting pretty aroused herself...

Jared was slowly stroking himself through his trousers at her words. She was driving him fucking crazy.

"Oh god, Jared you have no idea how much I've missed having you inside me. I think about you every night when I-"

A knock sounded at her door and Alin just had about enough time to make sure her appearance was acceptable, then she covered the mouth piece.

Jared couldn't take it anymore as he released his hardness from the confinement of his trousers. But then all of a sudden he heard Alin stop and a muffled noise before she covered her mouth piece. 

"Alin? Are you still there?"

Alin was flushed as her secretary knocked and came in telling her the half four appointment with a client was already here. He was an important client who did not like waiting even though it was barely half four. "Thanks Sophie, I'll be out in just a second." 

She uncovered the mouthpiece and whispered in a rush, "I'm sorry, Jared I have to go-"

"You've got to be kidding me!" he growled.

"I'm really sorry. I'll make it up to you. I love you." she hung up before he could even begin to protest. 

Looking down at the 'mess' she created, Jared couldn't help but smile at his inability to control his desire when around her... or even when she's thousands of miles away. She brought out the best and worst in him, but instead of letting him get his own way, she always managed to reason with him, unlike other girls who would bow to his every whim. It was beyond him how he'd managed to live without her for five years. With that thought in mind and picturing their future, he drifted slowly to sleep.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Tao Zhang certainly lived up to his expectation as a party animal. Using the excuse of Jared's not-yet-there engagement he managed to persuade him to go out with him for the remainder of his stay. The co-operation between the two was a huge success, and as the press conferences and the news of the two companies working together hit global headlines, after months of speculations from the media, both men watched as their companies' shares increased in value. 

It was the last night of Jared's stay and though they were business partners, he had come to think of Tao as a good friend. Tonight he had insisted he come to his family home for a wholesome home cooked meal. Jared knew this wasn't the only reason why he was invited, but he couldn't tell what was. He brought a gift with him and waited by the door. An elderly woman opened the door. There was no mistaken she was Tao's mother. 

"Ni Hao Mrs. Zhang. Ni zenmayang?" She smiled graciously, returning the greeting and gestured for him to take a seat when they were in the main room. Tao appeared and kissed his mother on the cheek. For a flamboyant character his family home was humble and warm. Something Jared admired and wished he had. 

After finishing the meal and thanking Tao's mom, Jared was sitting in his study as both men drank and reminisced about the good time. However, it didn't escape Jared that Tao seemed to be on edge the whole night. 

The meal tonight was partly because Tao wanted to give Jared a good send off. It was hard to make real friends in business, but he found Jared to be genuine and a laid back guy, much like himself. The other part for his invitation was because he had pressing matters to tell him. Tao decided the best way was to throw it out in the open, "Fuck, Jared I've got something to show you."

"Is that why you're on edge the whole night?"

He reached behind his desk to take out a brown envelope, "One of my acquaintance is a part majority shareholder of Wenner Media LLC and Time Inc, their subsidiary companies include Usweekly and People-"

"You're talking business with me now?" 

"No." He stated then hesitated, just take a look inside." He gestured to the A4 size envelope.

Jared reached inside and took out the content. It took a few seconds for him to digest what he saw in front of him. He picked one particularly photo up amongst the scatter. His heart clenched. The pain hit him so hard he was speechless. 

"The bid for an exclusive is quite high. Apparently the guy who took the photo said Alin was there till seven in the morning. Obviously the guys at Wenner Media and Time had to double check if they were fake...but they're not."

He tried to remain calm while listening to Tao, "Do they know who the seller is?"

"The guy who contacted Wenner Media and Time was just a middle guy. There's obviously someone who's behind this. So really you have to keep a look out. It could be someone who's close to you."

"Thanks for this." Jared tried to compose himself. Trying hard to mask the pain. Every picture showed the level of intimacy they shared. He really wanted to rip and burn every picture, but being in business for many years taught him one thing: never show your weakness to anyone. 

"I consider you a friend. I'm...I didn't really want to show you this." Tao sighed, "Listen Jared, these pictures are going to be released soon, I don't know when, but there's nothing to stop it. Both of them don't want to lose an opportunity to grab headlines."

Jared gathered the photos and put them back in the envelope, "Mind if I take it?" he asked.

"Go ahead. He paused, before adding, "Jared, your girlfriend may not be the guilty party, just make sure you find out what happened before you jump to conclusions. I know I did with my first fiancée and-"

The words were lost on him. "I know." Jared cut in. "Tao it's been great. Say thanks to Mrs. Zhang for me, but I'm afraid I have to go I'll arrange a conference call after I get back to New York."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

The photos were only two weeks ago...the day after he went to California. She certainly wasted no time. He held onto her hand, leaning close to her, whispering in her ear. His other hand drifted to her lower back and then her upper thigh. Another of her leaning into him as she laughed at something he had said. A picture could tell a thousand words, and these pictures definitely did. He went through photo after photo. It was almost like a video, each photo a snapshot of what happened that day, second by second. 

But she told me she loves me. 

Old habits die hard. Jared wanted so badly to believe she wasn't like that, but she did betray him in the past, didn't she? Then he thought back to the day when they went to see Timothy...maybe now that she no longer owed him a penny, she wanted to leave him? Maybe all along she was stringing both of them. Craving all the attention. She's always loved being center of attention, Jared smiled bitterly. She loved it when men chased after her like a pathetic little puppy. Now that he bared his soul out to her, she finally decided that it was no longer fun to play along. The moments they shared were all a lie. A fucking lie. He dropped his head into both his hands, the pictures splayed on the desk. Pictures after pictures of intimacy. 

It might be a set-up, there may be other pictures that show a different side of the story... she's not like that! 

He tried to reason, but as he stifled through the last photo of her entering his apartment...she stayed there till seven in the morning. He shut his eyes in pain. Why the fuck did it hurt so much? 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* 

Alin couldn't concentrate at work. Jared had another five hours before landing. It was strange he didn't call her before departing, but she reasoned he may just have forgotten with all the media hype about his successful merge with Tao Zhang. She was ecstatic for him. 

Alin left work a little early to prepare for the meal tonight. She decided on seared scallops, grilled asparagus and a creamy mushroom sauce. It would be filling, yet light enough for him after the flight. As she prepared the meal, she checked her phone: no calls. It was strange because by now he should be on his way home. She decided to call him but after a few rings, it went to his inbox.

 "Hey, Jared, when are you home? I've made dinner...and also have a surprise for you! Can't wait till you get home. Love you! Come home quick!" 

He listened to the message and every word she spoke, he felt like someone punched him hard. Why did she lie to him? What did Haltor have that he didn't? He didn't want to see her tonight, in fact he didn't want to see her at all. He swallowed the bile in his throat, as he opened the box that contained the ring he was going to give her. The ring that was passed through his family. It was fortunate that he hadn't given it to her again otherwise he would have given her another chance to throw it back in his face. 

Suddenly in a rage, Jared swept everything off the desk. He was angry ...but nothing could wipe the aching in his heart. How he wish anger was the only thing he felt. Whoever said a broken heart doesn't exist must have never fallen in love. Still, there was a strong part of him that kept telling him to go home and listen to her side of the story...but in the end, his insecurities won. 

Alin sat at the laid out table waiting, unlike last time, she was dressed nicely and he didn't catch her whilst she was going crazy over the food. He had always said he was fond of having her long hair down so that he could smooth it down whilst making love to her. She smiled at the fond memories, knowing tonight would be even better because they hadn't seen each for a week! How the hell did she survive a week without going crazy? She called his phone again just in case. Still, he didn't pick up. 

"Jared, I'm really worried. Where are you?" 

She called Ryan but got nowhere. Relief flooded when she called his secretary and was told that he was booked into a suite. When Alin pressed for the exact location, she was apologetic but told her that Jared didn't want anyone to know where he was. Alin pondered the reasons as to why he didn't tell her. The last time they spoke was the time when she had teased him. Was he angry because she left him in a state or was he playing with her? It was probably the latter, she smiled at the thought. Alin got up to put the uneaten food into containers and tided up, slightly disappointed that he couldn't eat the meal that she so painstakingly prepared for him tonight. Before she fell asleep, she reassured herself again nothing was wrong.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The next day, Alin waited for his call. She didn't know what was going on. It was stupid and childish of him to ignore her calls even if she did do something wrong. Her thoughts drifted. Were they back to square one? Where she was nothing more than his...whore. Even the thought of it made her sick. Is that what he wanted to tell her that what they had shared a week ago was merely her delusion? Maybe that's why he had asked for her to attend the dinner party tonight. Just to tell her that he wanted female companion. Another thought unexpectedly entered her mind: did he meet someone in Beijing? Is that why he's ignoring her, so that she could take the cue and leave him to be? But it was impossible...they spoke only a few days ago, it couldn't be that soon already. She shook her head at the ridiculous thought and continued doing some work, when the front door opened.

"Jared?" 

He didn't say a word. 

She ran to him, but the expression in his face made her stop, "Um...Sara said you checked into a hotel last night." 

He shrugged as he put down his small suitcase. "Yeah, I had work to do."

"Oh right, well, I made dinner last night, do you want me to reheat it or do you-"

"I'm not hungry." 

She looped her arms in his, "do you want to go to bed? I've missed you so, so much." she purred.

Fucking lies, fucking lies! That's all he thought as he stared back at her.

He looked down at her and Alin thought she saw...disgust? "No, I'm tired. Just get ready for seven and we'll go together to tonight's dinner. I have work to do." He didn't look at her. It seemed he didn't really want to talk to her either. Alin couldn't understand the shift. Was he playing with her? 

"Jared," she started but was cut off by him.

"Alin, I have a fucking headache. Maybe you think I was out partying and fucking girls-"

"-I don't think that-"

"-but I was working. Day and night so that if anything does happen to the company like it did five years ago, I'd have things to fall back on-" he wanted to carry on, but the expression on her face... He walked past her and went to his study, banging the door shut.

It happened so fast. She stayed standing in shock after he slammed the door. She couldn't comprehend his behaviour towards her. It wasn't as if he didn't get the contract. Five years ago. He kept telling her that. If every argument, not that she understood how this one started, but if he kept bringing up what happened five years ago, she couldn't foresee a future for them. In addition to the fact that she didn't even do anything five years ago. What could she ever do to regain his trust? How could you regain a trust that was never there? As tears gathered in her eyes, Alin turned back to the room and tried to concentrate on her work.

Jared poured a drink into his glass and gulped it down in one. What was he going to do? He took out the pictures to look at again. Fuck this. Fuck her lies. All her tears were fake and to think he wanted to build a life with her... but his instincts were always right. He was so good at seeing right through people. Maybe he was really wrong. He glanced at the pictures. The images flashing back at him. Ignoring his instincts, he shook his head. He's been duped again.

Alin zipped up her white dress. Jared had gone to bed after staying an hour in his study. He didn't look at her as he walked into their bedroom. Alin decided to leave it. Still holding on to the thought that the stress he faced for the past few weeks had gotten to him. She thought maybe after the rest he would be back to his lively self. It was half past six when he emerged from the room, and Alin marvelled how great he looked in a suit and bow tie. He glanced at her direction. But there was no warmth or anything in his eyes. 

He watched as she smiled at him. Jared didn't miss how good she looked. Dressed in a strapless white prom style dress that ended just above her knees, she looked angelic, elegant and sexy. Her hair loosely curled and swept up, make up light but accentuated her features perfectly. She was like a bride on her wedding night. Seductive yet innocent. 

Innocent. He scoffed at the word. She was innocent as fuck. 

Jared didn't talk to her on the way there. She didn't want to make conversation either. If he didn't want to talk, so be it. She was sick of making the effort and then for him to throw back in her face. 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The dinner party was supposed to be an intimate affair, but it was obvious the host and his wife were anything but wallflowers that enjoyed lapping up any attention they received. Many who ran in their rich and lavish circle were invited. 

The host came over to greet them, "Jared, I'm so glad you could make it. Really after the good news with Tao Zhang we thought you'd get fucking hammered. Besides didn't think you'd come because..." He stopped. It was better for him to see Haltor than him telling now. He turned his attention to Alin, "And who do we have here?" he looked at her from top to bottom and again, now turning his full attention on her, "I'm Fred Price..." He took her hand but instead of shaking it he kissed it, "and you must be the pretty girl who's brought out Jared to his knees- Alin Fanning, the girl I've heard a lot about."

She was uncomfortable but tried to remain friendly for Jared's sake, "I hope what you've heard is all good things, because if there's anything bad you've heard, I assure you, they're all just rumors." 

Jared looked down at her in disbelief. She never changed.

"Course it's all been good." He was about to carry on when someone called out for him. He flashed a smile at her, "Until next time Miss Fanning." 

Jared left her standing there and she hurriedly followed him to the grand hallway. There was no one there. She decided now was the time to confront his behavior towards her. "Jared, please tell me what's going on? What have I done wrong? Why are you-"

Suddenly a voice cut in, "Alin, I'm so happy to see you again." She stiffened. John... and he said 'Again?' Why did he have to say that?! Why was he here now? Why did he have to make her life even more complicated? She was afraid to turn around. 

Jared stared at John Haltor as he walked towards them. Alin had her back to Haltor, but Jared saw him come to them. His fucking smirk. That fucking smirk on his face. When he started talking, she stiffened, the color draining from her face. Why, Jared wanted to know. But he knew the answers already: she was guilty. Pain and anger consumed him. Before Alin could do anything Jared pushed past her and grabbed onto John's shirt, pushing him against the wall. 

"Jared, no!" Alin said but both men were ignoring her pleas.

"What the fuck is your problem? Get off me!"

Jared held even tighter and hissed, "You better get out of my sight before I do something you'd regret." 

John took the bait, "oh, I get it now. Is it because I saw your girlfriend two weeks ago-"

She gasped, "Jared it wasn't like that!"

John lowered his voice, almost to a whisper, so that only Jared could hear, "yeah I enjoyed fucking her tight pussy," Jared's gazed narrowed dangerously, "I enjoyed how much she was screaming my name when I dumped my load inside her."

He released his grip on and turned away from him. John thought he was off the hook, but then all of a sudden Jared turned round and before he could react a hard blow landed on his jaw and his stomach. 

"Jared!" before she could stop him, John was on the floor.

"Piece of shit." Jared spat out.

He clutched at the throbbing pain in his jaw, "What? Just 'cause you can't satisfy her-" Jared kicked him hard in the stomach again, as he groaned in pain. At that precise moment guests came running out and was shocked to see the display. Grabbing hold of Alin's wrist forcefully he pulled her away. 

Jared held onto Alin's hand as he casually walked past everyone. They all stared at him open-mouthed whispering to each other. Jared stopped when he walked past Fred Price, "Fred, thanks for the evening but I'm afraid my evening's just been ruined." He shrugged his shoulders and left before anyone could muster a response.

When they got outside, Alin immediately pulled away from him, "What's wrong with you!" she said through her tears.

He held her wrist tightly, gripping it painfully. Using his other hand he opened the car door.




Not What It Seems Ch. 10



Hey there!

Yet again I'm sorry for the wait. As I've always said being a reader myself I understand the frustrations between the wait. I just want to say this is not the end of the story. I do like to tie up loose ends, and I hope this chapter has done the job (if it hasn't, please don't abuse me, threaten to kill me etc etc :/ ) Thanks for all the comments for the previous chapter and the votes. They mean so much to me and it really does put a smile on my face (thank you John B!)

Lost my editors, so I'm afraid I did the edit myself. It's about 3am, so I don't think I have the capacity to dwell on it any longer.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

He watched her walk away. He had to let her go. What else could he do? What else could he do or say to redeem himself? Apart from when his parents died, Jared had never cried, nothing had made him close to feeling any emotions, unless anger, but now he felt trickle of tears sliding down. He slumped down onto the floor, occupying the same spot, his back against the door. She was the best thing he'd ever had. And he lost it- again.

Alin cried herself to sleep that night. She was adamant about leaving. But now that she left, she badly wanted to feel him in her arms. Is that what happens when you love someone? Is that how her mom felt? Is that why her mom chose...but Alin knew she was stronger than that. She had gone through so much; she knew she could deal with this and move on. She had so much to live for. When Jared came back to her life, she never expected it to be good. In fact he had used $5million as a weapon for her to yield to him. But it was the hope he had given her, these past few weeks that made it so hard and confusing for her. Why did he have to tell her that he loved her? It was so simple when nothing was said, and they just had sex. The tiredness of the emotional burden hit her so hard. By the time Alin fell asleep, it was almost four am. Eight hours since she left him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Four days later, Alin found herself having to work from home to avoid the negative media attention. Again, she was painted as the bad guy. Her reputation was in ruins and her professional work didn't fare any better. She was tired of explaining herself, to prove to everyone she wasn't what everyone thought she was, but the thing that hurt the most had to be proving it to the one you love.

She tried hard to concentrate on the projects at hand. Ryan had decided to give her little work since he wasn't sure which direction the Daniels group wanted to go with their project and also he wasn't sure if she could mentally handle so much work after what had happened. Alin however, had insisted she was okay, so she assisted colleagues on their projects.

The negative media was just the tip of the iceberg, she knew much worse was to come when she received a call from Steven. She knew it was not good news. Since Daniel's Group are an influential company, it was expected they wouldn't want negative media associated with them. Alin was prepared for the blow, but it was hard to face another harsh reality so soon.

Arranging to meet her at a nearby coffee shop from her apartment, Alin found herself sat in front of a stern looking Steven as she nervously stirred the sugar and milk in her coffee, waiting for him to speak. Taking a sip of her coffee, to ward of the dryness from her lips and throat, Alin decided to take the lead, "Steven, I really understand if you want to cancel the contract. With my... I know with such a big investment, publicity is everything."

Steven poured milk into his coffee and stirred it. Looking up at Alin he said, "Do you know what I value the most in business? A lot of people think cockiness and confidence will get you far, but I don't think so. It may be a dog eat dog world, but people like you, so humble but talented is hard to find."

He smiled warmly at her, "I'm not going to cancel the contract. I don't care what other people say, but I'm going to continue giving you the main responsibility for the projects with Ryan over seeing it for me. I've been getting shit for employing you, since I was told you are supposedly inexperienced. Your age doesn't affect your ability and talent and neither does this so-called scandal."

For the first time in months, she smiled, "Thank you for this opportunity, Steven. Thank you for believing in me." Alin said through tears. "But I just have one more thing to ask of you."

"No problem, go ahead."

"Is it okay if we keep this between us for now? I know this is not correct protocol, but I don't want my personal life interfere with my professional life, so it would be best if Ryan is unaware we've signed."

Steven nodded in understanding. "I will let you tell him when you feel the time is right. Then I'd personally discuss the main points in the contract with him once you tell me you're ready."

Steven sincerely hoped he was doing the right thing in agreeing with her...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

That day, after meeting with Steven, Alin sat in front of her desk looking at the paper work in front of her. This was an opportunity of a lifetime. Though, she was relieved to know that under no condition would he not employ her, something felt amiss. She wasn't sure if she was ready to be so far away from everything.

She read through the contract trying to find any fault she could. But she couldn't. The Daniels Group were too generous with their offer. She couldn't refuse it. Alin couldn't tell anyone about this yet. Not even Hallie. She had made Steven promise not to tell Ryan. She didn't want Jared to know because then she'd be persuaded to stay by her own heart. Though it was hard, it had been almost a week since she had avoided him, ignored his calls and gave the flowers and presents he gave her to others.  

Alin knew she was slowly recovering. No longer an addict, she wouldn't suffer from relapse and forgive him- because he didn't deserve forgiveness. She told herself over and over again.

As her phone rang, knowing it was Jared, she pressed 'end call.'

It was better to leave everything unsaid.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared drove to the same spot he had occupied for the past month and switched off the engine, waiting. The spot was perfect and he knew he couldn't be seen. He smiled as he saw Alin walk out of her apartment. She was dressed in a black vest top with black gym shorts and stretching her long slender legs. It was the same every Sunday. After going for an hour run, she would go brunch with Hallie. Again, Jared smiled bitterly at the thought of him not being in her life anymore and being reduced to stalking her. Hell if anyone found out...as a matter of fact, what if someone found out? He'd do anything to have her back.

For the past month he had tried hard. Knowing she didn't really want to see him, in fact Alin had flat out refused to see him. He tried her office or Hallie and Ryan slyly arranging for him to be there on many occasions outside of work. But Alin caught on quickly and gave both her friend an ultimatum- either see them separately or don't see her at all. Helplessly, Hallie and Ryan had suggested maybe Jared should not push too hard yet, and maybe let them persuade her. In the meantime they gave him updates in her life, whilst trying to always say good things about him to get her to soften towards him.

It hadn't gone to plan.

Though Ryan always assured him that Alin still had strong feelings for him, he was sceptical. Besides, even if the words were true, she was still indifferent to him.

So he had sent flowers and presents to her apartment and office and also called her often, leaving messages. He wasn't sure if she listened to any of them, but he was damn sure he wasn't going to give up. At least she hadn't changed her number, so he viewed that as some sort of progress. The media however did fortunately die down after a few weeks, though there still speculations and made up stories. Jared promised he'd make whoever was behind this to pay dearly, starting with Haltor.

"...remember our second home in LA? Well I was thinking of renovating it, but not really sure if I should make it the same as our home here. But then I know you're not into the whole lavish theme, so I think simplicity is the way forward." He paused and sighed, it was hard to keep a conversational tone especially since it was a one way conversation. "Alin, I really miss you. I miss being beside you, I miss the way you smile at me. I miss...I just want you to know I love you, and there's a not day I don't regret ever mistrusting you..."

This was the fifth time Alin listened to the message. I love you. How she missed those words. But how could she give him another chance? They weren't meant to be together she tried to tell herself. He would leave her at least one message everyday. There were so many times she wanted to just reply, or go to his apartment to see him and really tell him how she felt. But she couldn't because common sense and better judgement would kick in and she knew how their relationship would end. What was the point, if in the end he would hurt her again? She knew if she ever gave him another chance and he pulled that on her again, it would break her, like it had broken her mom.

Everyday she would pretend everything was perfect. But when she was alone she would cry uncontrollably. It did get marginally better when she discovered how much exercise helped suppress her emotions, so she decided that anytime she could get she would go for a run to clear her mind. It was during those times she felt she could really breathe and focus on moving forward.

"Alin-" she turned around and smiled as Richard approached her, just as she finished her stretches. He lived opposite of her, and alongside Ryan, he had helped her move in. Last week he had asked her if he could join her on her Sunday runs. She had agreed but instantly regretted it. It wasn't because she didn't like him, she really did, because he was an incredibly nice guy, but Alin cherished the time she spent alone on a Sunday.

Jared watched on, jealousy killing him. Who the hell was that guy? Ryan did mention some friendly neighbour of hers helping her out. Jared snorted. Friendly my ass, he thought. It was blatant what this guy was trying to do. If this guy thought he could take her away from him, he had another thing coming. He watched as Alin threw her head back laughing as the guy leaned closer and told her something. Jared gripped the steering wheel hard. Fuck, he couldn't take this anymore. He had to see her soon, otherwise he'd lose her forever. Fuck the ultimatum and this shit. They were meant to be. He called Hallie up to see if she would let him join them for brunch, but obviously not tell Alin.

It was a miracle Hallie had even given him the time. When Alin moved out, Hallie had refused to speak to him. Luckily, it seemed Alin didn't tell her the whole story about how he treated her, so eventually Hallie had somewhat softened towards him and promised to help him out secretly. The truth was, he was so embarrassed and ashamed that Alin would tell Hallie and Ryan about the way he had treated her. But she didn't. He felt even more like a fucking idiot. How could he ever mistrust her? She had the best chance to tell them how he had mistreated her, and turn them against him, but she didn't.

Instead she chose to protect him. But Jared had hung his head in shame and told Hallie the whole truth, if he was to show his remorse, he had to prove he knew how wrong he was. Hallie had gone mental at him. Still, eventually after his many calls begging for Hallie's forgiveness and his solemn pledge to never ever mistreat Alin, Hallie had somewhat reluctantly agreed to help him out.

After the run, Alin felt slightly refreshed, though having Richard as a companion was nice, it upset the balance and routine she had so quickly got accustomed to and suited her perfectly. The daily Sunday routine of going out with Hallie and her 'mom friends' started when Alin holed herself either at the office or at her rented apartment assisting projects and acquiring new clients. An intervention was long due when Alin had stopped even seeing Hallie. So, therefore, on a particularly sunny Sunday afternoon, Hallie went round Alin's apartment and practically pulled her out of her misery and into this new routine.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin went to Hallie's house to help her prepare for brunch. Luckily the other moms' hadn't shown up as yet, which meant Hallie could really use the time to talk to her friend. However, her son beat her to it.

Spotting Alin, Alex ran up to her, "Alin!"

Smiling down at the small child, Alin picked him up, "Hello, ooh what have you been eating lately honey? You're growing up so fast!" she said as she twirled in circles with him in her arms.

Alex giggled but then had his arms around her neck as she tried to put him back down. "Alin, I missed you." He pouted. "You don't come out anymore. Jared took me to Adventure Land again, but you weren't there. He said next time he'd take me to Disney Land. I asked him if you were coming. But then he said he did something bad and you won't come. Would you please forgive him, so we can go together?"

Alin turned to Hallie, but she shrugged her shoulders. Turning back to Alex, she patted the child on his head, "I'll take you to Disney Land. So you can go with Jared, once and then go another time with me? How's that sound?"

The child nodded eagerly while Hallie shook her head. Finally, Alex let go of Alin after spotting some of his friends arriving with other mom friend's of Hallie's. Not joining the other women yet, Hallie used the opportunity to talk to Alin.

"You know it's true. Even the kids are missing being around both of you..." Hallie said casually.

Alin tilted her head to the side and looked at Hallie suspiciously, "I hope you didn't make Alex say that. Emotional blackmail does not work on me." She wagged her finger at Hallie and retorted in good nature.

"Heyyyy, I did not! He really did get upset when he didn't see you last weekend." Hallie regarded the expression on Alin's face, "You don't believe me?"

"No! I do. It's just I'm glad you've finally stopped talking about him."

"I'll never stop. It's just-" Hallie sighed, "I know why you're angry with him, and god I would be too. In fact I was so mad at him for, but you're good together, and it upsets me to see you two running in circles."

Alin looked at Hallie sadly, "No matter how hard I try, I just can't. He leaves me these messages, he sends me flowers and presents everyday, but nothing he can do will ever make what he did to me go away. Hallie... I'm so angry with him but I still have f-feelings for him, but I feel I'd be condemned if I go back to him."

"No one would condemn you!"

"I would! And my mom... if she were looking down on me, she wouldn't want me to forgive him."

Hallie leaned across to hug Alin, noticing the tears in her eyes, "Shh... no your mom would be so proud of what you've become, A. I know you don't want to hear this but Jared is really remorseful. He's not like your father. He loves you. Your mom knows you and Jared are meant to be. She would never think less of you!"

For a while Hallie held her in her arms. They broke apart, not wanting to gain an audience with their long absence.

"Come, A, we'll talk later."

Hallie knew the decision to tell Jared not to come today was a good idea. Though it hurt to know he was so upset, she knew Jared could take it as she sternly told him no. It was hard but if he came today it would upset Alin further, worsening the situation.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Ryan was watching a game of football at Jared's apartment when he came back armed with beer.

"What took you so long?" he said not turning around to look at him, too engrossed in the game, "You missed the first 25 minutes of the game. You've been gone an hour. Good thing I told you to go early, otherwise, you would have missed the damn game."

Jared wasn't going to tell him he went to see Alin. Because all he would say to him was give it time. Fuck that. Not being with her made him insane, if he couldn't even see her, regardless of how far away, he would rather die. And Hallie sternly telling him off had made it worse. He knew where she was coming from, but it was still so frustrating to be so far away from her.

He took two beers and slumped on the couch next to Ryan. Giving one to Ryan Jared opened his and took a swig. As their team scored, Ryan shouted at the screen in joy and expected Jared to do the same. But when he turned to look at him, all he saw was a serious looking Jared staring at the screen but not really watching it.

"What the hell's wrong with you? Did you not see that?" Ryan demanded.

"I don't care about the game. I saw that fucker today. He was talking to Alin. Fuck I saw him lean close to her. He's only known her for a week-"

"Four weeks." Ryan interjected as he regarded his best friend's solemn features. He wasn't going to comment on how Jared saw what he saw.

Jared growled at him, "Whose side are you on? Fuck, this is so unfair!"

Ryan couldn't help it, he laughed hard. Even though he'd known Jared for a long time, seeing him mooning like a teenager was hilarious, because it was so different from how he was normally. Though it did make him realize how much Alin affects him. When they broke up five years ago, Ryan had never seen his friend drink and party so hard. At least it was a relief to see he had somewhat matured a little and put his hardcore partying ways behind him this time round.

"What are you laughing at?" Jared almost shouted at him.

Ryan tried hard to compose himself. Because he did feel bad for him and he'd give the world to see them both together, but honestly, he also knew a punishment for Jared was long overdue.

"Look I don't care if you're gonna sulk and cry like a fucking annoying dick, but let's just be honest, you brought this on yourself-"

"What?!"

"It's true, how many times have you treated her badly? I'm telling you you've crossed the line and that's why you should pay. I'm glad Alin hasn't forgiven you- yet."

"Damn, Ryan even you think that, what would Alin think?"

"Look, Richard, or that fucker as you always call him, is only a friendly neighbour, rest assured. Maybe he likes Alin, maybe not. I don't know. But what I do know is as much as a dick you are, Alin still thinks the world of you. Yep it baffles people why she still does, but it's true. Just give her time."

"But how long? How long until someone takes her away from me?"

Ryan patted his best friend on the shoulder, "Jared, I don't know. But what I will say is you can't expect her to forgive you in what, a month? Show her you're no longer the arrogant dick everyone's come to feared, then maybe, just maybe she'll soften towards you."

Jared sighed. "You're right.

"No shit."

He was about to retort when his phone rang. As it was on the table, Ryan reached over to take it. As he was about to hand it over to Jared, he accidentally saw the caller.

"Naomi? I hope this is not the Naomi I'm thinking of." Ryan stated angrily.

"Shit its Naomi? Give it to me."

Holding it back Ryan shook his head in disappointment. "I can't believe you. After all this time, I thought you'd change. Alin is not one of those girls. Seriously? You're just gonna fuck around until you get back with Alin? You're fucked up you know that, Jared?" The phone continued to ring.

"What?! What are you on about? Why would you think that?"

"Don't bullshit me Jared. I know what you're relationship is with her."

"And what is it then?" Jared demanded.

"You introduced me to her five years ago. You and her...seriously do I really need to spell it out to you?" Finally the phone stopped ringing.




Not What It Seems Ch. 10



Jared shook his head in frustration. "You can choose to believe me or not, but Naomi and I never had a relationship. In fact four years ago, she actually had a mild attraction to you. She's like a kid sister to me. And besides she's not that kind of girl. A few weeks back I called her to check something for me, so I think today's call is about that."

Ryan looked seriously at Jared. But then his next words totally threw his off balance. "Naomi was attracted to me? Oh my god, why the fuck did you not tell me back then?"

The tension in the room immediately washed away as they both laughed. Ryan wiped the tears from his eyes, "no but seriously, Naomi's kinda hot. You know she has that clichéd hot librarian thing going on."

"She was also seventeen at the time, unless you wanted your ass in jail. And you had a girlfriend at the time. Seriously I wanted to tell you but you loved that bitch, so what can I say?"

"If you had told me I would have broke up with that bitch."

It was true. Ryan's girlfriend, Tiffany had almost destroyed him. Jared hated her.

"Besides, I could have waited until she was older..."

Jared laughed, but then backtracked on what Ryan said earlier, "I can't believe as my friend you'd think I would do that to Alin."

"Well I couldn't believe you'd treat Alin like shit. Do you really think I'd be surprise if you cheat on her? You do have a reputation you so meticulously carved out for yourself.

"I know. And there's not a single day I don't regret it." Jared replied sadly.

Sensing that he had hit a raw nerve Ryan said, "Okay, cheer up buddy. Look you might be a total dick, but lately you've been on your best behaviour, I think I may put in a lot more nice words in front of Alin."

Jared rolled his eyes. "Geez, thanks so much. Anyway I have to return her call. If I don't, do you know how hard it is to get hold of her? And besides... I can introduce you two properly if you're still interested-"

"No it's okay." Ryan said a little too quickly.

Jared arched one brow, "I've warned you... Hallie's married."

Ryan threw the phone at him, "Go return the call."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared had called back and they arranged to meet at his apartment. He asked his driver to pick Naomi up. When she got there, she was surprised to see Ryan answering the door. Few years back she had a slight school girl crush on him, but at the time he had a girlfriend and she was seventeen, so obviously he had not even given her one look. Nothing came of it and now being a tad older and wiser, she knew the power she had on men. Ryan was too soft for her manipulative games. Nice guys were no longer her type because they never indulge in mind games that she had come to love.

"Ryan, good to see you." She said but there was a mischievous and flirtatious tone to her voice as they embraced each other.

"You too, Naomi."

While the two got reacquainted, Jared was back in the room. Clearing his throat he said slightly amused, "Seriously will you two get a room?"

Naomi glared at him mockingly, and then she smiled, "Feeling left out are we, Mr Valentine?"

"No." he retorted. "Just enjoying a private moment between my best friend and a young professional woman, Miss T."

She narrowed her eyes at him but the small smile contradicted her almost evil stare, "Let's gets down to business then shall we?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Sprawled on Jared's floor were all the documents, paper work Naomi had brought with her. The three of them started off looking at the enormous amount on his dining table, but eventually as she got out more and more documents out, they decided a bigger space was needed.

So sitting on the plush carpet, Jared stifled through the paper and couldn't believe what he was seeing. Three months ago, Jared had confided in Rita and Tom about the possibility that someone was selling company secrets. Together, they had looked into the people who were at the meeting that were supposed to be confidential. It was strange but somehow Jared's intuition was he could trust Tom and Rita. But then again looking back at the evidence in front of him, his intuitions were all wrong and he was obviously not very good at seeing through people. He listened to Naomi as she told him what she had found.

"You know looks like your intuition was right." She said and Jared couldn't help but inwardly groan. "A few weeks ago when you told me to check every single executives and upper management involved in your meetings, and also Charles I was pretty sure this was an easy enough task. I started at the lowest level and worked my way up. Because usually the small potatoes are the ones that won't be selling you out. When I came up with nothing, I decided not to dwell any longer so I thought I had to look through Charles information. I was pretty sceptical, I mean, I remember that guy, a little smooth for my liking, but I remember he was your right hand man."

She noted Jared's reluctant nod, so she carried on.

"Well anyway here's the thing. I started with his phone records as that's probably the least information guarded by security process. I pulled Charles's last three years phone records. Nothing strange in the beginning, his contacts were consistent. Pretty much every outgoing, ingoing calls were the same, but then I found a pattern. He would always get A LOT of calls from one particular number." She gestured to the phone record "This one that ends in 347, always calls him. Now you may think that's not strange, but if you keep looking through the phone records you'll see that this number either doesn't call him but when it calls him, it really does not stop. In one period, especially five months ago, the number had called Charles 102 times in the space of two weeks, that's an average of 7 times a day. But interestingly, there was another thing I noticed while going tireless through the records. You see a number that ends in 215? It doesn't call that frequently. But after exchanging a few calls with 215, the calls from 347 stops. You guys see it?"

Both Ryan and Jared looked at the highlighted phone records, and wondered how Naomi could have spotted that. The 215 number was insignificant, so they were pretty amazed at her attention to detail. Looking at a three year period, however, and Naomi's highlights, the evidence becomes more significant and clear.

"So obviously 215 is an important person to Charles. And 347 is the nuisance." Ryan interjected.

"Uh-huh. I checked up 347 actually, and here's the good part, the man is called Derek Simmons. And guess what he is? He's a debt collector. And conveniently hasn't changed his number since the 18th century."

"And 215?" Jared asked.

"It's a pay as you go cell. No registered user. And according to the number's phone records, Charles is the only person they call so obviously there's something not quite right. And yet again, works in favour for us as this mysterious person hadn't decided to change number since the swinging sixties."

Ryan smiled, "You and your lame jokes."

Naomi smiled batting her eyelashes innocently in an exaggerate manner, "What jokes?"

"Girls, can we concentrate on this?" Jared cut in shaking his head as a parent would as he scolded his children.

Jared looked at the phone records and knew where this was leading to and he didn't like it one bit.

Naomi flashed a mischievous grin at Ryan, as if they'd been caught doing something bad by their dad. She turned back to Jared all seriousness and carried on, "Well, the next thing is bank account. And a little off topic, you pay Charles, $50,000 a month?! For doing what? Sitting at his desk jerking off? And he gets an end of year bonus too?"

It still amazed him how he allowed her to talk to him like that. She was his employee after all, but he had a soft spot for Naomi, and in a way she was right. Why the fuck was Charles paid $50,000 a month?

"Anyway, his main expenditure and earnings were passing through his main bank account. A few assets, such as properties, shares locked into investment accounts. But, you see Charles doesn't just work hard and play hard. His motto is imbalanced. His play hard more than outweighs his work hard... Jared, he loves to gamble, and gamble big. He's quite infamous in Vegas actually... for being the worst poker player and a big tipper for strippers. With all his assets, his lifestyle will eventually catch up with him, throw in the fact he loves the extravagant and luxury things in life, I was wondering how the hell he pays for it. Surly his assets would be depleted the way he was living his life.

Interestingly though, when he gambles, he pays in cash when he loses or use his sister's account. I said to myself, who the hell carries, over a $100,000 in cash? I mean you could if you were one of those arrogant idiots on Wall Street, but for someone who earns $50,000 a month? Not likely. Also, what sort of sister would let you pay your debt with her account? Unlikely, so I did a check on his sister's details."

Naomi took out a pile of statements, "Alongside her husband, Charles's sister owns a catering company and guess who's been supplying for the corporate functions for BankSafe?"

"Green's Catering Company..."

"Yep Green is her married name. If you look at the money being transferred to Green's, every so often he transfers an amount to them. Not too much so that it became suspicious, but enough to be laughing all the way to the bank, literally."

Jared remembered this now. A junior accountant had found problems with the accounts and had taken this up with the head of finance. Fearing an impending fiasco similar to the scandal five years ago, the department had taken this to Jared. Since the sums at the time were not a big amount, Jared had appointed Charles to investigate further. Of course the real truth was swept under the rug. Fifteen months later, the junior accountant had been fired. The reasons senior management stated was because of negligence and bad work ethics.

BankSafe always held lavish corporate events at least on a monthly basis so it was not a surprise to have spent so much on catering for these events, since it was a good way to build relationship with existing and potential clients whilst raising their profile. But to know Charles stole from him? No one stole from him and expected to get away with it.

"How long has this been going on?"

"Three years. But that's not only it..."

To be honest he didn't want to hear anymore. If stealing from BankSafe wasn't the worst thing, he didn't know what was.

"You see after finding out this piece of shit was stealing from you, I had a gut feeling that this wasn't just it. Yeah he stole from company accounts, but surly his sister and her husband would want to take a cut from the stolen money and it still didn't add up with the amount he was losing in Vegas and his lifestyle. The next thing I found out was his offshore accounts. This was not easy to find. A few years back when his father passed and left him an inheritance, to avoid further taxation his father set up a few offshore accounts in Luxemburg and Cayman Islands for Charles and his sister."

Jared and Ryan looked at each other. This was getting interesting and Naomi seemed to enjoy torturing them with her brilliant narrative. This was more like a a movie script more than anything with her animated narrative completed with hand gestures.

"In those offshore accounts, it had been pretty inactive for the past few years, maybe the only transactions being the stolen money, which were later put into a safe deposit box. But by 2005 onwards there were large amounts transferred into his offshore accounts. The payments weren't a regular sum. But it was paid in interval. For example, if you look at the money paid into his account in 2005, the sum totalled $1.5million. Of course, Charles is not a total idiot. It's obvious the money was something that shouldn't be seen in daylight. Knowing this, Charles didn't put all his eggs in one basket and has distributed this money through to several accounts, including his sister's. Regardless, the same account was funding Charles and his sister's with the money being paid in a four month interval. It did make me wonder why. Initially I couldn't trace the account paying him, but the person continued to pay him in 2006, 2007, 2008 and the latest payments were made almost a month ago..."

Naomi stopped talking, letting her words sink in. Jared looked at Charles offshore account's statement, studying it: November 2005, October 2006, February 2007, August 2008, and July 2010. He looked up at her and in that moment she knew he understood what she was trying to say. She nodded in understanding but she continued to talk,

"In the beginning, I had hit a dead end. I couldn't find out who the account holder was. The security was tough and my contacts wouldn't give me any other details. So, I looked at the dates. There must be some connection there. So I looked into last year. I thought to myself why wasn't Charles paid last year, in 2009? Why? Then I remembered why I was looking into this the whole time. Sometimes the most obvious thing is the hardest thing to find. You wanted me to find out who was possibly selling company secrets. I remembered last year BankSafe had a very good year with annual turnover of almost $2 billion. So maybe that explained why he wasn't paid: there was no scandal for you."

"Fuck..." Ryan said, and looked up at Jared. But he was speechless, even though he had pondered whether Charles was behind this, as more evidence pointed a finger to his loyal ally, there was no way he could further delude himself.

"But a little bit of guess work can't prove it, can it? I mean it was just a theory I developed. But then I looked back at his statements. He was paid the most in 2005 and this year. There must be something he was doing right. Hell, he was paid more than what he makes in a year plus bonuses. Then, I remembered. In 2005, you broke up with Alin and the scandal followed. This year, you broke up with Alin and the scandal broke out..."

"Haltor, that fucker..." Jared said and clenched his fists.

"So I decided to work backwards. I know Charles was paid, I mean it's crystal clear the main culprit pulling the strings, but I wanted solid proof as do you, so I looked into John Haltor's finances. I found that he's been transferring money into one of his senior manager's account as a form of 'gift' and personal bonuses, so as not to rouse suspicions, everything was done in offshore accounts- yet again hard to trace. And through this, this senior manager can transfer the money to pay Charles. Of course Haltor is fortunately not brain dead- yet. He made sure the amount he transferred to this guy wouldn't add up to what Charles was given, but, rather disappointingly, since I just complimented him," Naomi took out the statements for this year, "You see, this year Haltor's negligence has caused him a great deal. Not only has he directly transferred money from his Swiss account into Charles's Luxembourg account, without doing all that middleman bullshit, he also decided to use that same account for tax evasion and possible money laundry activity, which may I add, I'm sure is not a common activity for you rich people," Naomi winked at him.

Though quickly, Naomi resumed the professional manner to deliver the big blow to Jared, "In 2005, Haltor, using his middleman transferred $3million into Faye Morlan's account-"

"What?!" Ryan said in shock, whilst Jared continues to remain speechless.

She continued, "As for Charles with all the money Haltor pays him, obviously he was able to live the lavish lifestyle and avoid gambling his way into an early deathbed. Haltor would always call him with his 215 number to offer a proposition and help stop those debt collectors..."

Suddenly it was all so clear. Jared was angry, angry at himself for letting this happen. How could he have been so blind? Pushing away all those that cared for him and letting his enemies that close. Jared clearly remembered the day Faye Morlan came to his office five years, oblivious to him at the time, she was putting on a display for Alin. The truth coming out should have been a great moment for him. Instead it was bittersweet, for he had lost the most important thing to him. Those involved would pay very dearly he vowed silently to himself. But for now this was not his priority...

"Naomi, I... what you've done for me...how can I ever repay you?" Jared said as he looked up at her. If he was paying for something, he expected a damn good job of it, but what Naomi had done for him was beyond the call of duty. The evidence she had produced was compelling. He had no doubt she must have put every waking hour trawling for information, not to mention all the favours she owed her contacts.

Smiling brightly at him, Naomi said, "you can first of all, beg your girlfriend for forgiveness, tell her what an idiot you are, then get married, let me be the godmother of your children and-" she took a pen out from her bag and wrote on a piece of paper. Sliding the paper to him, she watched as Jared smiled, "good doing business with you, Mr Valentine." He heard her say.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Charles sat outside Jared's office nervously, waiting He wiped his sweaty hands on his suit as he watched the wall clock tick by, time seemed to stand still.

As the major shareholder and CEO, Jared occupied the top floor of the BankSafe headquarters'. The grand surroundings and the brilliant view looking over Manhattan, whoever was invited to Jared's office came only for two reasons... Charles looked back up at the wall clock. It was 2:30pm, 3 minutes and 42 seconds since he last looked at it. He was extremely agitated. Usually Jared would never contact him via his secretary, Sara. As Jared considered Charles almost like a close friend, their working relationship was on some level more casual than professional. Suddenly, Charles felt sick. Did Jared find out about...?

"Mr Francis? Sir?" Charles didn't realize Sara was talking to him until he felt a hand on his shoulder. "Mr Francis, Mr Valentine is ready to see you."

Charles got up and at the same time wiped his hands on his suit trousers. He had never felt so worried before. This was more nerve-wracking than the first time he had met Haltor...

"Charles take a seat."

He complied and watched as Jared shuffled the documents. He couldn't see anything out of the ordinary. If anything, Jared seemed more upbeat than usual. Without looking up at Charles, Jared continued, "So Charles, tell me how long have you been working for me?"

"E-eleven years"

Jared was silent. Only the sound of pen on paper could be heard as Jared signed documents. Charles continued to restlessly move in his seat. He couldn't comprehend what was going on. He could feel sweat gather on his forehead.

"Hmm..." Jared finally said as he suddenly watched Charles intently. "You have been with me for that long, haven't you? I still remember when I first started out at 25. I had some funds, and you were the first guy I hired. Fresh out from college with a degree from NYU with top honours in your class, you asked me to give you a chance and that you weren't just book smart..."

Charles waited as the words Jared was about to speak hung in the air. A sinister feeling crept in and Charles felt bile in his throat.

"...but you know what, Charles? I'm glad I've given you that chance. I so remember the third year into our business, you managed to bag the first major contract for me. I must admit you're a smooth son of a bitch. Year on year the company has flourished. The second quarter shows that we're up 27% compared to last year. Eleven years ago, I had ambition and confidence that BankSafe would go far, and I was right. But I was more right about you. Jared got up sat on the corner of his desk and pat Charles on the back. "I'm glad I gave you a chance. Someone who's been with me for eleven years deserves more than $600,000 a year. I'll give you a 35% pay rise with bonuses. I'll backdate the payment from last year."




Not What It Seems Ch. 10



The words did not fully sink in until Jared asked Sara to bring in the champagne.

Charles could not believe his luck. A few minutes ago he was shitting himself about Jared finding out all shit he's been doing. Now as he sat in the seat looking out into the famous New York skyline, drinking champagne with his negligent boss, he had never felt more alive.

As Jared clinked his glass to Charles's he looked at his employee of eleven years. His expression was of a man who had just had a brush with death and then found out he had won the lottery. He could see that Charles was so happy that he couldn't wipe off that shit-eating grin off his face. A 35% pay rise? He must be more deluded than people paying an extortion amount for modern art.

"Charles, may we have many more successful years..." Jared said as he smiled at what he had in store for him.

Though patience was not his virtue, he knew timing was everything in this situation. And although he couldn't wait to wipe that smug look off Charles's face, he knew that when the right time came, it would be worth the wait...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The following Monday, Ryan decided enough was enough. After pondering for most of Sunday, upon learning the truth from Naomi, he knew an intervention was long overdue. He was getting sick of seeing his two friends going round in circles. he had decided if Jared was too scared to approach Alin and tell her the truth, he would. Ryan wasn't sure what the reception would be, but regardless he knocked on Alin's office door and when she told him to come in, he sat down and looked at her intently.

"Are you okay, Ryan?" She said when he just looked at her without saying a word.

"Alin, do you trust me?"

"Of course I do, Ryan? Tell me, is something wrong?" Alin said with worry.

"Last Friday I was at Jared's apartment-"

She shuffled the papers, and broke eye contact from Ryan. "I don't really want to hear this."

"Alin, you have to believe that Haltor pulled so much shit. Jared wasn't to blame-"

"Ryan, no offence, but to tell you the truth, I don't really care-"

Ryan stared at her. Never had Alin been so dismissive. He knew Jared had a lot of work cut out if he thought he could just walk back into her life.

"Okay, Okay fine," Ryan held his hands up, "I know you don't care, but hear me out. Please?"

When she made no sound of disapproval, Ryan continued, "About a month ago, Jared hired someone to check if someone was possibly selling company secrets since it seemed insider information were being leaked out."

Ryan took a deep breath, "Alin, Haltor that sneaky bastard paid Charles for the information. And the pictures of you and Haltor, he hired Charles to do it for him. That night when you went out to dinner with him, they hired a photographer to follow your every movement with him. Also, Faye Morlan, Jared's ex-girlfriend contacted you five years ago insinuating an affair. They set all of it up for you to be there when he was with Faye. It was all Haltor pulling strings."

Alin had heard just about enough. It was something she didn't need. How could Jared after all this time, finally with hard evidence believe her? If he had faith in her in the beginning nothing would have happened. He had avenged against her in the most unforgivable way, constantly belittling her. How could she forget that? Learning the truth had changed nothing. You can't forgive him, you can't forgive him...

"Ryan, thanks for letting me know." Alin said as she resumed her work.

Being in shock was an understatement. "That's all you have to say?!"

"What do you want me to say, Ryan?" Alin cried, "that we can live happily ever after and I can forget how he's treated me? Call me narrow-minded, call me whatever you want but whoever was behind this, it doesn't make a difference! What if someone was to come and make up lies again? Would he distrust me again? We both have trust issues, and sooner or later we'd be back to square one." Alin dropped her pen, looking at the blank piece of paper as her tears slowly dropped onto it, crinkling the once pristine paper.

"It's taken me nearly a month to even have a life, get back on track and my thoughts not being constantly plagued by him." Alin whispered, "and I don't want to go back there again, Ryan."

Ryan went round to embrace her," A-Alin, I'm sorry. I just...you're both my best friends. It hurts me seeing you guys like this. I promise if you don't like it I won't interfere, but-" he lifted her face to his and used the pad of his thumb to wipe her tears away, "just know that I'll always slyly mention Jared one way or another." Alin laughed even through her tears, "and no more tears, next time I see you cry, it's gonna be happy tears, 'kay?" Preferably, as lamely as it sounds because Jared has swept her off her feet, he thought, but of course he wouldn't tell her that.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"I'm disappointed in you."

Jared sat in his office staring out the window when his cell rang. Without looking he had picked up. The words uttered on the other line couldn't have been more depressing. His grandma was back.

Every year his grandma would go travelling for god knows how long. Ever since Jared had made a name for himself, he had paid for his grandmother's travel after years of her raising him on her own and working tirelessly to keep food on the table. A few years back she had met his step grandfather, and together they travelled the world. She hardly ever came back to see his grandson, choosing to update him with postcards and videos.

"Granna-"Jared started

"Do not call me that!" She said angrily, "Why is it that every time I come back, I have a surprise waiting for me? To read something about you that I-I... god I'm speechless you know that?"

Whenever his grandma goes travelling, she likes to cut off almost all contact with the world, choosing to enjoy life whilst travelling peacefully. However she would ask Jared to tell her if anything needed her attention.

"I'm sorry, Granna-"

"I don't care that you haven't spoken to me in months. What I care about is this trash I'm reading in the papers? Why have you broken up with Alin? N-no actually why didn't you tell me you were dating again? Do you know how hurt I was when your messy personal life caused you to lose that sweet girl five years ago? I bet this time it was your fault again. Seriously you get a second chance with her and, still you f-fuck up. Y-you are unbelievable you know that?"

Jared almost laughed when his grandma cursed. She was a graceful and elegant lady even with a tough upbringing. She seldom cursed. This was serious shit. Her scolding always made him feel like a five year old child.

"It's not like that, Granna! W-we...it's so complicated between us."

"I don't want to see you unless she comes with you"

"But-"

"No buts. I'm serious Jared. Either she comes or nothing."

His grandma hung up on him. She had never been this angry. When he broke up with Alin five year ago, the shit hit the fan and his grandma was so mad at him, seeing as she had refused his side of the story. Though he groaned at the ultimatum his grandma had given him, it wasn't all bad news. Jared knew how much Alin respected and loved his grandma. Maybe, just maybe using this he could finally see her?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin, maybe you don't want to see me, I understand. But Granna's back... and she'd really like to see you... Alin, I'm so sorry, but can we please put what happened between us aside for now? I know you're mad at me, hell I'm mad at myself but please...j-just please call me back?

Alin sighed as she dialled Jared's number. She had pondered all day and all night whether to return his calls. She had stopped listening to his messages a few days ago. Willing herself to be strong, she had deleted most of his messages. But today, she had a feeling that maybe it was important. Therefore, after listening to his message and hearing that Granna was back, she was in serious dilemma. The truth was, she wasn't sure if she was using this as an excuse to contact him. Alin was battling with the inner voices. After tossing and turning in bed for hours upon hours, she got up at 2am and decided to call him back, reasoning with the voices that she called him back not because of him, but because of Granna.

Jared kept his cell close all day. Every time his phone vibrated he would check it eagerly and every time all he got was disappointment. So when a faint buzzing sound roused him from his deep sleep, he reached across somewhat annoyed and growled, "Hello?!"

The other end was silent which further infuriated him. He took the phone away to look at who the caller was and he groaned at the realization. "Alin?" he rubbed his sleepy eyes. "I'm sorry, it's just that I didn't expect you to call...especially this late.. n-not that I didn't want you to call, I do. I'm really glad you did." He said, fully aware that he was rambling but unable to stop himself.

"When is Granna coming? Just give me the time and date."

He felt grim. He was beyond happy that she had called him back. But from her tone, she was definitely still indifferent to him.

"When would you be free? I don't think Granna has a plan."

"Next week Friday at 7 is good for me..."

"Ok." He paused not wanting the conversation to end so soon. "Alin, I-" I love you. "I...thanks for doing this for me. It means a lot-"

"I'm not doing this for anyone. I'm doing it because I want to see Granna." She said cutting him off. "I'll see you next Friday at 7." And with that she hung up the phone. Jared sighed as the other end went dead. Lying back down, he tried to sleep.

Alin's heart was beating rapidly. Her hand was slightly shaking. It was hard not to talk to him. It was difficult to keep up the pretence of being indifferent, almost cold to him. She sighed massaging her temples and fell back onto the bed. She knew sleep was not going to come easy.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Alin, honey, come here! I can't believe you're finally coming to see me. It upsets me that you hadn't seen me for five years." Granna said as she embraced the young woman. After a few moments they broke apart and the older woman smiled at her. Holding onto her hand she studied her, "Alin, you've lost too much weight. I hope you're eating properly. Well, anyway by the time I'm done with you this week I promise I'd get you healthy again."

Alin smiled affectionately and looped her arms with Granna, "I'm sorry for not making the effort to see you Granna for the past five years. I've just had a lot going on. I promise I'd never ever do that again. These past few months work has been hectic. Maybe I've forgotten to eat."

Jared looked at her and indeed realised she had lost a lot of weight. She was slim already but now he could see how gaunt she looked. He hated himself, for he knew he was the one who made her like this. Both women had ignored his presence as they talked.

"Still, work or not, being like this is not normal. Five years ago, you were a lot healthier. How are you suppose to have my great grandchildren if you're not healthy-"

"Granna, Jared and I-" Alin started but was cut off by Jared to save any more awkwardness. "Granna, our reservation's at 8, we should head out."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Throughout the meal, Alin felt Jared's eyes on her. In the beginning it was awkward. Jared would try to speak with her but her attention would only be on Granna. Eventually all conversations exchanged were either between Jared and Granna or Alin and Granna. The old woman tried hard to get the two talking, however Alin always diverted the conversation back to Granna's travels or changed the topic.

After the meal they leisurely drank a sweet wine while eating dessert. The ambience returned to an almost relaxed state compared to the hostility in the beginning. Seeing Alin had somewhat relaxed and starting to enjoy herself, Granna suddenly said,

"Alin, do you remember this restaurant?"

She smiled at the old woman, holding onto her hand she nodded. "Yes, I remember this was when we-" she stopped herself suddenly. This was the restaurant she had gone to when they had announced their engagement to Granna. She had burst into tears and blubbered how blessed her life was. Maybe it was because she heard the happy news, but Granna had said she had never been to such an amazing restaurant, thus vowing to return here with the happy couple.

Granna sighed. Holding Alin's hand in one and then reaching for Jared's she put the two together. They suddenly looked up at each other. Alin quickly diverted her attention elsewhere not wanting to look at him. Granna spoke quietly, as she remained the link between their hands. "There's nothing more I would like than seeing you two happy. This is my only wish. Damn I'm seventy-three. Maybe not that long to live."

Granna was a wise woman. Maybe it was slightly on the verge of emotional blackmail, but it was true there was nothing she would like to see more than her grandson settled down with this sweet beautiful girl.

Alin leaned over and kissed Granna on the cheek. "I want you to be happy too Granna, and I will visit you more often when you come back. We need more alone time together. Just the two of us, so you can tell me more about your travels."

Jared couldn't help but feel defeated. She hated him and it didn't seem there was anything he could do.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After the meal, Granna had hugged Alin and told her how they have to see each other for the remaining week before she left again for another exotic location. Unexpectedly, Granna had whipped out her smart phone and said that she had a date tonight. Indicating that Jared should drive Alin back, Granna had caught a cab and waved the two off.

Now standing awkwardly outside of the restaurant waiting for the valet to drive his car round, Jared stood next to Alin, as she continued to stare at the direction Granna's cab drove away. Whilst she looked away from him, Jared used this opportunity to openly gaze at her. She was dressed in a summery white dress with a thin belt cinched around her waist. Her hair was styled in a boho-chick style, with two plaits on either side of her head and pinned to the back. The rest of her hair was wavy. The slight breeze blowing her hair, Jared just couldn't tear his gaze away from her. It was so simple, yet on her it was angelic, elegant and beautiful. Hell, he thought anything she wore looked good. He missed her.

Yet again, Alin felt his eyes on her. Not only was it awkward, it made her feel extremely self conscious. Did she maybe have chocolate cake on her face? Or was he staring at her because... Alin tried to tell herself over and over she didn't care what he thought about her anymore, hoping that the more she told herself, the more likely it is that she was to believe it.

Just as she was about to think deeper in to the matter, a cab was driving past and Alin flagged it down quickly. Granna's plan was so obvious. She was never going to give her or even him the chance to 'talk', because frankly what was there to talk about that hadn't already been said?

Jared caught on quickly, "Alin what are you doing? I'm taking you home!"

"I don't need you to." She replied coldly and as the cab pulled onto the curb Alin was about to get in, when Jared shut the door, and then handing the driver $100 to tell him he was taking her home.

Sensing the girl was in no danger and this was a very possible lover's tiff the driver smiled in return at having received the money for doing nothing, he bid the couple goodnight and drove off.

Jared never understood the expression, 'if looks could kill,' but right now the way Alin looked at him, he finally knew what it meant.

"What did you do that for?!" She demanded angrily.

"I said I was going to take you home-"

"So, again, it's always what Jared Valentine wants he gets?"

"That's not what I mean." At that moment the valet returned with his car and handed the keys over. Opening the door for her, Jared said in defeat, "Alin...please, let me take you home, if not for me, then at least for your convenience and for Granna's peace of mind."

Also defeated, Alin got in the car, and wondered why she had agreed to not drive there herself. For the rest of the journey they exchanged no words.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

As Jared pulled over outside her apartment, Alin had already begun opening the door, but momentarily stopped when Jared said, "Alin, I..."

She turned to him upon hearing the uncertainty in his tone and for a glimpse Jared saw warmth... how it was a month ago, but then it was quickly replaced with coldness.

...Love you, need you... but Jared knew those words would not go down well. Instead he chose the lamest excuse, "I heard that your bathroom has a leakage, I was wondering if you needed someone to fix it for you..."

He left it hanging as he realized how ridiculous and desperate he sounded. Ryan had called him for a catch up and he had also mentioned briefly Alin's bathroom. However now that he thought about it, maybe Ryan was hinting it. Ryan had said that Alin was going to get someone round to fix it but they had told her they were not willing to work weekends and instead would come round the following Monday.

Unbeknownst to the both of them, Ryan had purposely not helped Alin, even though he could have probably fixed it with ease, but neither of them needed to know that- Alin would kill him, and Jared would refuse to stoop so low to win her back.

Alin pondered his offer. The truth was it was an annoyance and she really didn't want to ask her neighbour, Richard, after imposing on his kindness way too much. She couldn't well ask Ryan, seeing as he treasured his weekend. There was a moment of silence as Alin looked at him, but her pride marginally won. She softly whispered, "I don't think it's a good idea-"

Jared could detect her uncertainty and he couldn't but smile inside. Any improvement from how she treated him before, (not that he didn't think he deserved it) was indeed significant, because it was one step closer to him winning her back. "It's just I know a bathroom leak can be more serious than you think it is. And you don't want to wait till next week for someone to fix it." Jared knew he was rambling but if he had to recite 100 reasons why she should let him come to her apartment to fix it, so be it, "A leak can cause a lot of damage. Especially-"

Alin opened the car door suddenly and Jared pushed his hand through his hair, defeated. Then suddenly Alin turned round and briefly smiled, "Are you really going to fix it for me?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared was lying on the floor looking at the leakage coming from her sink. He was mumbling to himself as he tried to screw the things in the right place.

Alin watched his profile from behind. She couldn't help but picture him in her life. It was so easy to imagine it as he lay so casually on her bathroom floor trying to fix her sink. Just as she was about to turn away, Jared turned around and their gaze locked.

Jared had long ago felt her presence. He wasn't sure what he should have done, because just when he felt her come in, he had almost finished up. After laying there for a few minutes he decided to turn, and was surprised to see her looking back at him, dare he say with longing in her eyes? He got up and dropped the screwdriver in his hands. Walking over to her, he watched as she fought an inner battle.

Alin watched as he came closer to her. She wanted to run. She wanted to hide. But her legs wouldn't give. At that moment, his arms went round hers and she felt warmth and safe.

He'll hurt you again. He'll throw you away as if you're nothing. Don't give in, be strong...

She pushed away from him and started to walk but he was too fast and he quickly held on to her wrist.




Not What It Seems Ch. 10



The way he held her wrist though very gentle, was a reminder of the last time he grabbed her wrist and pushed her against the wall roughly.

Alin pulled away in fear, she backed away from him.

"Alin, I-"

"You've come here to fix the bathroom for me. And I'm grateful you've done it for me... it's now done." She closed her eyes, willing herself to go on. Pointing to the door, she whispered, "Please leave."

He stayed where he was and looked at her intently, "I can't leave you until we talk about us-"

"There was never 'us', Jared." she sighed, "You made sure of that. Do you really think we need to talk? Do you? What is there to talk about?"

He buried his face in his hands. Looking up at her in pain, "I made a mistake, Alin. I trusted people I shouldn't have trusted, I didn't believe you. I'm sorry. I can't believe I made the same mistake twice. There are so many people who want us to break up. Believe me, I'll make them pay. There's nothing to break us apart now. I love you."

"You just don't understand." She walked further away from him. She looked out the window at the strange silence the night brought. It should have been peaceful, but his words infuriated her.

"I gave you everything I always thought I should save myself for someone special. And then you came along and showed me a different side. You showed me not every man was like my dad. I wanted to 100% trusts someone completely before I had sex with them. You threw the fact that I owed you money to force me into bed with you. Even after that, I never really regretted it. I wanted you. I've wanted to be with you ever since I met you in the balcony at Hallie's wedding. I never wanted another man to touch me, because...I loved you. But then what? Time and time again, you accused me of sleeping with John, of betraying you, or whatever fabricated version of me you had in your mind...After everything we've been through, after giving my- myself to you, it still wasn't enough to prove to you."

"No, Alin it's not like that! You mean everything to me! You're the only one I need. I need you in my life. Haltor was behind this! He tried to break us up. He hired Faye Morlan and Ch-"

Hearing his pathetic explanation irritated and angered her, she turned away from the window and glared at him, "Enough!" She shouted. "You used me. Why is it someone else's fault all the time? If you had trusted me, if you had confronted me, whatever John Haltor, or your ex-girlfriend tried to do wouldn't have worked. You come back five years later, instead of confronting me, you used the debt t-that man owed against ME and then y-you..." Alin stopped herself, and took a deep breath, "I can never forget how you've treated me. Now that I can finally stand on my own two feet, why do you have to come and-" say these things to me, and confuse me?

"I-"Jared started.

Alin knew it was foolish to harbour these feelings for an undeserving man, so instead, staying strong she said, "Jared, remember you said I was worth $10,000? Sleeping with you for the past few months, I'm sure I must have paid off quite a bit. Let's do the maths shall we?" She said mockingly at him, "so it's been what, four months? One hundred and twelve days. So I've repaid about $1.12million. Seeing as I was the only whore you were seeing, don't you think I at least deserve a bonus? How about if we say $2million? So I still owe you $3million-"

"Alin..." Jared started, the words she spoke pained him

"The remaining debt I can write you a cheque or transfer the money into your account. For old time's sake you will give me time right?"

"Alin, you don't owe me anything-"

"But I do, Jared. You wanted so much to get your money back for the past five years. You hatched up an amazing plan to get revenge. But now you're willing to throw away your whole plan you so painstakingly devised because of what?"

Jared froze. Not knowing what to say. Damages he had done...he was worried would never be repaired.

"Because I love you." Jared said quietly, but the words were clear. He looked at her, their gazes locked. Her outburst earlier was replaced with silence. She didn't know what to say.

"This whole thing, I don't know why I had it so wrong. Ever since I've met you, I knew you were the one for me. When I saw you in the balcony on your own, I worked up the courage to speak to you. I was so afraid of getting turned down. My ego was my second worry, my first worry was that I wouldn't get a second chance." Jared smiled at the fond memory, reminiscing about the moment when he caught the sight of her across the room at Hallie's reception. "I've never had that before. I've always been over confident and arrogant. When I spoke to you, I knew I had fallen in love. But I threw that away because of shit I've heard. Alin, I-" she turned her gaze away, looking down at her hands, "I'm not here to collect t-this fucked up so called debt. You owe me nothing. In fact I owe you more than I can ever repay, after the way I've treated you. I just want you to know that whatever I said in the past, I don't expect for you to forget, because what I did and said can never be taken back, so why should you forget it? The pain I caused you, the way I used the $5million against you...I'm fucked up to do that to you. But I'm begging you, I'm begging you to let me prove to you I've really changed-"

Jared walked closer to her, hesitating whether to pull her closer to him, so that he could feel her in his arms again. Deciding to take the risk, he suddenly wrapped his arms around her, fully expecting her to push him away. But she didn't.

He instantly felt relieved, whispering he said, "Alin, I know you don't trust me, because in the past I've lied to you, I've said shit to you and I've treated you badly. I know trust will take time to build between us, but I want you to know that I really regret it all, and I'd do anything for you to let me be close to you again. I know I need to work hard and I'm prepared to do so to regain your trust. Alin, I-I l-love you. We can take as much time as you need to, but please don't push me away."

She felt his warmth. She belonged in his arms. She shook her head to clear her thoughts. This was wrong. She couldn't well accept him. Maybe he had changed, but then what? Could she truly let everything that happened go and just forgive him?

She stepped out from his embrace and looked at him. He looked tired, marred by worry. Was he worried that she would reject him? Alin couldn't tell, but she did know his words were genuine.

"No."

She shook her head as she said the word. Even surprising herself. "I can't, Jared. I really can't. Please go, just go." She dropped her voice, almost to a whisper, "I don't think I can ever forgive you."

"Alin, I-"

"Please," Alin said, her voice slightly rose. "Just go."

"Alin, I can't let you go. I just can't!"

"Don't you get it? Alin cried, "I just can't see you. I want to be logical, and being with you isn't!" Tears started to stream down her face as she whispered, "I don't want to make a decision now. I can't."

Jared dropped his gaze from her face in defeat. He wanted so badly to just walk up to her, hold her and persuade her to change her mind. But he couldn't. Pushing her into a decision she wasn't ready to make would snap the fragile thread connecting them. Even letting him in her apartment, he knew was the best he could ask for, and still tonight he just had to push her.

He walked towards the front door and opened it, before he stepped outside; he turned around, and watched as she looked at his retreating back. Now their gazes locked. "Alin, I love you. I want you to know that. And I want you to know that I will do everything in my willpower to prove to you that I've changed."

Alin dropped her gaze and stared at the floor, her tears dropped to the ground.

Jared sighed before turning and left her apartment.

Hearing the door close behind him, Alin finally looked up at the closed door. Her outburst should have made her happy, after months of being mistreated by him; finally standing up for herself and rejecting him should have also been the icing on the cake, but she found the tears flowed even more freely. For an uncomfortable truth she didn't want to acknowledge was the fact that even with everything that had happened, she still loved him and her common sense temporarily winning her heart.

She wasn't sure if she could ever forget him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

He walked into one of the best bars in New York. He knew clearly who frequented here. With his natural swagger, many girls dressed for a Saturday night out were already trying to pose seductively to get his attention. Still, he only had one girl he wanted to see tonight.

She was dressed to the nines tonight. In a mini red dress that had a deep v-neck, stopping just above her navel. Her fake tits were practically spilling out. She had those ridiculous Christian Louboutins on that were probably six inches high. He had no idea how she could walk in them. He could see the strains on her feet. She crossed her legs and sat sideways. Sipping her drink slowly and trying to look sexy, he could see her eyes wander while she was talking to one of her girlfriends.

He laid one hand on her shoulder, "Faye..."

She turned around and it took her a good few moments to realize who it was. Never in a million years did she think she would see him again. Utter surprise and shock registered in her expression. However, being a professional seductress (as she thought of herself,) Faye Morlan quickly composed herself and smiled seductively up at him, battling her eyelashes.

"Jared?!" she touched his arm, "Oh god. It's really you?" she got off her seat and embraced him, making sure she pushed her fake tits into him. In her head she counted to five and let him go. She wanted to make sure he felt every part of her. She wasn't sure why he was here, but she wasn't going to let go of any opportunities she got.

"I was across the bar and I saw you, thought I'd come see how you've been." Jared said casually.

He could see the triumph expression on her face. As she subconsciously smiled as her friends smugly, as if to say, girls he's crawling back to ME. Jared laughed inside. How far from the truth this was.

"I've been good." She purred, "But you know I feel even better now that I've seen you, it's been too long-"

"Faye," one of her girlfriends cut in, "Why don't you introduce us to your friend?" She said blatantly knowing who he is.

"Where are my manners?" Faye replied as she laid one hand on his upper arm and slowly stroked it, "This is Jared Valentine and these are my model friends, Janet, Missy and Miranda."

Jared kissed their cheeks politely, "It's nice to meet you girls, but I have things I'd like to talk to Faye about, will you excuse us?"

Her girlfriends looked at her in a mixture of jealousy and envy.

Jared leaned down and whispered in Faye's ears, "Is there anywhere we can go that's private?"

Faye smiled smugly at her friends and whispered back to him, "I know the guy who owns this place..."

"Good." Jared said as he led her out.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

True to Faye's words they were in a luxury room reserved for VIPs. Jared didn't really give a shit where he was, he just wanted to tell her the deal and get the fuck away from her.

Faye came back with two glasses of champagne in her hand and sat next to Jared on the plush sofa draped in silk. "So..." She started as one hand rested on his thigh. She traced her hand up and down his thigh, going closer to his dick. "You know how much I've missed you...you are the only one who can make me-." She went closer and closer following the direction of her own hand.

Jared rolled his eyes. This was getting tiring.

"Wet." She laid her hand on his cock as she said the word.

"Wh' the fuck." Jared said as he brushed her hands away. He got up quickly.

She was insulted. Not at his words, not even because he brushed her hand away, not even because he moved quickly away from him, "are you not happy to see me? You're not hard?" she pouted and sat up. Slowly she spread her thighs. She wasn't wearing any panties, "maybe this will?" Faye purred as she licked her lips.

Jared turned away from her and almost wanted to laugh. "Faye, seriously, do you really think I came here to fuck you?"

"Why not? I'm the only one who can make you come. Do you not remember how hard I make you?" She sucked two fingers and started fingering herself. "I knew you'd dump that stupid whore and come back to me-"

Suddenly Jared lunged forward and pulled her hand away, disturbing her show of display for him. He dropped her hand and moved away from him. "Don't say that about her," Jared warned. "You do nothing for me. You're just another cheap whore, who'd do anything for a couple of dollars." Jared took his jacket and threw it at her, "Cover yourself. The thought that I used to be with you actually makes me sick."

"What the fuck is your problem?!" Faye spat out.

"You wanna know my problem? If I were to tell you all of them, we'd be here all day. But I don't want to waste my time with the likes of you. I didn't want to come here to today, I could've got someone else to do this dirty job for me, but I guess sometimes it's more satisfying to finish the job yourself-"

"What are you talking about?" Faye said suddenly in fear.

Jared laughed mockingly, "Haltor gave you $3million to fuck me over, right?"

She gasped.

"Didn't think it'd catch up with you? It's nicely stashed away in an offshore account, isn't it?"

"Jared, I-"

"You fucked me over, you know that?" Jared said softly, narrowing his eyes. "I lost the woman I love because of you and that fucked up bastard."

"So?" she retorted. "You dumped me after you got with that I'm-so-innocent-girl. I was your girlfriend one minute, and then you fucked that whore the next!"

"I wasn't the only man you were with, Faye. You knew our relationship weren't exclusive. That's why when you were with me, you were still shopping around. But I'm not here to discuss our so-called relationship. You had what you wanted from me: a comfortable lifestyle while it lasted, and a healthy stash of money. The thing that pisses me off is you fucked me over with Haltor."

"So what? There's nothing you can do! What you gonna do? Hire someone to kill me? Make up fabricated stories about me, and ruin my career?"

He smirked, "No, Faye, I don't want to kill you, Killing you will mean letting you off easily. As for your career it was over when you were caught doing coke. If you weren't fucking the top guys, you wouldn't have got any jobs at all. No, I don't need to make fabricated stories about you when you have enough skeletons in your closet."

"What-"

"The foundation you set up, The Faye Morlan foundation for homeless children..."

The look of horror on her face confirmed everything he needed to know. Even though Naomi had done all the research for him, he wanted Faye to admit it.

"Setting up a charity and stealing from it?"

"Jared...no, please I'd be ruined." She pleaded desperately.

"You were ruined the day you decided to help Haltor."

He turned and started walking away from her. Before he left, he turned, "I'd give you one advice: if you contact Haltor about today, I'd make your life hell- even worse than what it'll be in a few weeks time. In the meantime, enjoy the investigation you'd come under and the media attention. Remember what you used to tell me? No publicity is bad publicity..."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Two weeks had past by after the argument he had with Alin at her apartment. True to Alin's words she had visited Granna everyday, but she had refused to see him. Upon learning the truth from him, Granna did not speak to him either and had vowed if he wanted to ever see her again he better get his act together and win Alin back.

It's not as if he didn't try, but it was hard. He still left messages on her phone religiously. But for every step he took, Alin would take three steps back.

Sat behind his desk, Jared picked up this morning's paper:

Disgraced model, Faye Morlan alleged to have stolen from her own charity...

The news that Faye was under-investigation, and most likely imprisoned for fraud did nothing for him. True, people like her being punished made him feel marginally better, but nothing could fill the emptiness he felt.

Jared turned so that he was gazing into the skyline. It was late, and everyone had gone home. Jared took out a cigarette from the packet and lit it up. Smoking was always what he would do to de-stress. He was about to put it to his lips, when suddenly the thought of Alin made him stop. He knew she hated it, and the truth was it was a habit he regretted starting. He stubbed it out. Past girlfriends would join in and encourage his lifestyle of sex, drugs and heavy drinking. Alin was different. She showed him he didn't need them to enjoy life.

Next month he would turn thirty-seven, and the thought made him feel even more empty and lonely. Every year he would make his birthday an extravagant event. This year, it felt like another day without Alin. He buried his head in his hand and wondered if she ever thought about him...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Doodling in her sketch pad, Alin didn't know what the hell she was doing. She knew how much shit Steven was getting for putting her in charge. If she submitted the work she was doing for me him now, it would prove all the people who doubted her right, not to mention she'd disappoint Steven a lot. She took a deep breath and tried to concentrate but images of him would always fill her mind, reducing her to a mess.

It was his birthday in next month, and Alin knew every year he would make his birthday a lavish event, putting a bachelor party in Vegas to shame. She knew he would forget and give up on her soon. Since Jared Valentine was infamous for being impatient. Alin knew she couldn't be so pathetic. She was still angry and hurt...So why is it that she still thought about him and couldn't seem to erase him from her heart even for just one damn minute?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

On the eve of Jared's birthday, he found himself sat in John Haltor's office, it was eleven in the morning, and knowing Haltor well, he knew he'd never be in the office before eleven.

John walked into his office casually, surprised to see it opened. Before he could ask his secretary why the hell the door to his private study was open, he saw Jared Valentine sat in his chair. Surprise was an understatement. The two men had never been alone in any given situation.

"Jenny?! Why the fuck is he here?!" he shouted at her.

She looked at him in fear, "Mr Haltor, Mr Valentine said he had an appointment with you. A-and I told him he'd have to wait for you outside, but he said h-he..." she whispered the last few words quietly, because truthfully she didn't tell Jared he couldn't enter Haltor's office. His mere presence had stunned her into silence.

He didn't wait for her to finish before he slammed the door to his office. "So," he started smugly, "why are you here, Valentine? A personal invitation to your little tea party for your birthday or to beg me to stop fucking your girlfriend?" He finished off. Haltor was pissed, not only did Jared have the guts to sit in his office but none of the security got involved?

Haltor could not believe how much of a joke he must have looked to Valentine.

Jared had waited for this day ever since Naomi told him the truth almost two months ago. There were too many things he had to consider and it just happened that today he'd tell Haltor the deal. Jared liked to think of it as an early birthday present for himself.

Still sitting down, while Haltor loomed over him, the position should have been intimidating. But Jared had the upper hand. He always had the upper hand, where Haltor was concerned, because if it wasn't for his grandfather he would have been out of the game along time ago.




Not What It Seems Ch. 10



"That's where you're wrong." Jared said as a slow smile crept up on his lips, "I came here to talk business with you-"

Haltor's rich laugh cut him off, "Are you seriously out of your fucking mind, Valentine? Are you this pathetic after your girlfriend left you? Business? Seriously this has made my day."

Jared waited patiently for him to finish his immature behaviour before he took a pile of documents and threw it on his desk. "I'm sure you'll change your mind after you see this."

"God, humour me." Haltor said as he picked it up. There was a few moments of confusion as he started to see a whole host of numbers of documents, "What the fuck is-" he started but realisation hit him hard and Jared saw the triumph moment when his face turned white.

Jared got up from Haltor's leather swivel chair. "So what do you think? I'm sure even with your limited knowledge you'd understand what these are right? I'm just thinking, which do you think, fraud, breaking competition laws or money laundry acquires the highest sentence in the federal court?"

Haltor threw all the documents on the floor, "What the fuck are you trying to play at?!"

Jared ignored him and walked down two steps to the main area of his office, and sat down on the couch. He leaned forward to pour himself a drink, casually leaning back, he watched as Haltor approached him. Stopping barely a meter from him, Haltor leaned down and shouted, "Do you think with this shit, you can fuck me over? It proves nothing!"

Jared looked at him mockingly, "Do you really think I'm new to this game? I wouldn't have come here if I didn't have enough evidence to fuck you over. Charles? That dog, really you paid him millions and millions of dollars to do a shit job. As for Faye, you paid her $3million to put on that little show? Not only do you have more money than sense, I'm sure this little news will delight your grandfather."

"I don't believe you!" Haltor growled.

"I don't care what you believe. From the statements, even you know the deal. So don't try to bullshit me. I'll be looking forward to see how your attorney tries to get you out of this one, but believe me, you're finished."

Jared got up and walked to the door, "Thanks for the wine." He was about to leave when Haltor suddenly spoke up.

"Wait, I'm sure there's something we can work out." He pleaded desperately.

"Scared your trust fund will go? I'm sure this is the least of your worries. You chose the wrong man to fuck with." Walking back up to him Jared grabbed his collar and pushed him against the wall. Anger blinded him. The months of pent up frustrations at the realisation of how Haltor played him like a string puppet by throwing money and bribing his people.

"Do you know why I'm here today? No money or business contract you take can replace the one thing so important to me..." Jared said dangerously as he pushed him harder against the wall, using his arm he pressed it hard against his neck.

Haltor chocked, unable to breathe as Jared continued to press his arm harder and harder into his neck, "F-fuck, n-nothing happened between Alin and I. Argh... s-she's all yours."

Jared snorted but finally loosened his grip. Taking a deep breath to control his anger, (because if he didn't he feared he'd beat the shit out of him,) Jared backed away from him.

"You said there's something we can work on...I'll tell you what the deal is. You don't want to be exposed and get cut off, fine... I want the contract you have with Petrov and any others you have with any Chinese companies-"

"No-"

"Do you think this is up for negotiations? Let me tell you, you son of a bitch, either you give me ALL those contracts or you get exposed." Jared looked at him smugly, "can you imagine the media? Not only will you be scandalised with your business activity, I'll clear up what you did to Alin's reputation. You sad motherfucker! Insinuating you had an affair with her? You're more fucked up than I gave you credit for."

"Fuck you." Haltor glared at him, "You stole from me first. She was mine, you know that? She was working as an intern for me. I gave her all the opportunities and then you came and fucked it up! I gave her everything she ever wanted. You fucked her, she was my fiancée! Do you know how many people laughed at me?"

"I didn't steal her. WE were about to marry until you hired Faye Morlan." Jared stopped in frustration, "I'm not here to talk bullshit with you." He walked towards the door, "If we have no deal, then I don't want to waste anymore time being in this shit hole."

For the second time Jared was about to leave when Haltor stopped him. For once in his life John was no longer arrogant, cocky and smug as he whispered in defeat, "I'll g-give you all of the contracts, but please don't leak out anything."

Jared smiled but didn't turn around, "never thought I'd work with The Haltor Corporation, but the thing that surprises me the most is JOHN HALTOR begging me. If I don't receive anything within a week from Petrov and the Chinese companies, I'll assume our deals off."

As Jared left his office he bid his secretary a good afternoon and when he left the building, he knew this wouldn't be the last time he'd return to The Haltor Cooperation...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Charles's hand was shaking as he listened to the other end of the line.

Haltor screamed down the phone at him, "You dumb fuck! Do you know how much you've cost me?"

Jared had found out? Knowing Jared for a good eleven years had taught Charles one thing about him: his need for vengeance on people who've done him wrong.

Instead of answering Haltor, he hung up on him quickly and went on his computer to quickly book a flight to Monaco. He had exactly about two hours to pack and leave this god damn place. As he opened the door, he nearly slammed himself against three men in suits.

"Mr Francis, in a hurry are we?" The men produced a warrant and their identity cards, "You're under-arrest for fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud..."

Everything seemed like a blur for Charles as he was handcuffed. Just today he was smiling at the fact that he was earning an astronomical salary and looking very much to his weekend in Vegas. Everything crashing down, but it only took him a few moments to react,

"What the fuck. Get this off me! I want to see an attorney! I have the fucking right to." He shouted angrily.

"I wouldn't if I were you." Charles turned to see Jared leaning against the door casually. "You've stole millions of dollars from the company, not to mention your connection with Haltor."

"It's all lies!"

Jared walked towards him, "Officer, please can we have a private moment?"

The officer nodded and left the two alone, closing the door behind them.

"Never thought you'd end up like this, huh?" Jared said as he sat on the desk. Without waiting for an answer he continued, "The thing is Charles you were too greedy, using your sister's company just wasn't enough for you, and you had to steal 35% on top of what you earned in your salary?"

Charles quickly did the maths, "what the hell are you talking about? You gave me a pay rise!"

"I did not. Why would I?" Jared said as he smiled smugly.

Catching up quickly, Charles anger boiled over, "You son of a bitch!"

Shaking his head, Jared leaned forward and whispered in his ear, "You orchestrated the whole thing in ruining my relationship with Alin, do you really think I'd let you off easily-"

"You were fucking stupid enough to believe what I said!" Charles growled.

Jared zoned out for a second, considering what he had said, "You're right I was stupid to believe you." but then his lips up curved slightly in an arrogant way, "we learn from mistakes and I'm sure you'll learn a lot in jail. You stealing that extra 35% on top of you planning to leave the country, which I'm sure you did before the officers came will surely land you in prison longer than what you were going to get. I was not satisfied for you to just get a few years. You covered your ass by making sure that all the money you stole was put into your sister's account. But greed will always get the better of you. Now that the account is related to you with that extra 35% transferred into it, any money Haltor transferred to you for the past five years will be used against both of you..."

"Fuck you, Jared. Even if I'm going down, I'll still drag you down with me! Five years ago, you lost the contract with E-bid because of a scandal, do you really think-"

"Do you really think, I'll let it happen again?" Jared said cutting him off. "Son," he started mockingly, "a statement will be released upon your arrest, and of course it's your reputation that is ruined, not mine. Having to explain this to you, I think my biggest mistake was employing someone like you. And by the way Charles, sorry that you have to cancel the trip to Vegas..."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Happy birthday." Ryan said as he got up to greet Jared.

After all the fiasco from Charles arrest, Jared was waiting for the shit to hit the fan, since once the media got hold of the scandal, they were sure to latch on to it. However, this time Jared was fully prepared in dealing with it, which was sure to cause even more controversy; though he would deal with that when he came to it. Today, he just wanted a quiet day, but Ryan had insisted he at least come out for dinner and drinks.

Jared sat down and replied, "We didn't have to do this..."

Ryan snorted, "You know I can't believe you. The notorious Jared, not throwing a massive party this year, completed with strippers, is practically unheard of. Do you know Alvin, Penn and the others have begged me to ask you to re-consider? Now, even for a meal you won't come out?"

He rolled his eyes, "it's not as if you've come ever since your business took off. Besides aren't I a little old for that scene?"

Ryan raised his brows, "I thought your motto was, 'you're never too old.' If Hugh Hefner can do it, why can't you?"

That earned a slight smile from Jared, but it was quickly replaced by a sullen expression, "Well, I just want a quiet night today. Charles was arrested yesterday."

"I was wondering why it took you so long to do it." he shrugged his shoulders, "you have your reasons. I'm surprised you managed to keep his arrest quiet though."

"Well, when senior management level is involved usually they don't want anything to happen to the company, knowing this will ruin our reputation and their livelihood."

"And Faye Morlan?"

"I have my ways." Jared said as he scanned the menu, "Anyway, how's the Daniels contract going?" He stated ever so casually.

Ryan was not fooled as he laughed at Jared's pretence. "Trade secret."

Jared started to protest but Ryan laughed and explained the situation to him.

"Okay, no using this to your advantage but I'm not sure if it's working out. I mean in the beginning they were pretty optimistic. In China, they planned four chains in Beijing with future expansions in Shanghai. But with all the bureaucratic bullshit, only one received permission to be built in Beijing. Steven Daniels said they would only go ahead with the project if at least another were given permission. So at the moment we're just waiting. This was maybe three weeks ago. He hadn't told me anything since. However, I'm sure we're on the verge of signing since Alin has started the prototypes months ago, but I've heard nothing as yet."

Jared smiled slyly, "Well then we should celebrate!" He prompted the attention of the waitress and ordered champagne.

"I thought you wanted Alin to work for Daniels." Ryan asked as the waitress poured their drink.

"What I mean is there's a cause for celebration because it gives me time to get us back on track. Of course I want her to go, but not quite yet with so many things unresolved between us. Hell, if it takes more than that, I'm willing to go anywhere with her, I'd leave Tom temporarily in charge, but I can't let her leave without having her back in my life. I don't trust Daniels."

Ryan suddenly burst into laughter whilst Jared narrowed his eyes, "What's so funny?"

Ryan swished his wine studying it but he continued to grin mockingly at Jared, "Just every time I see you acting like a teenager falling in love the first time, it makes me feel like, maybe karma does exist. I mean how many poor girls have been waiting for your calls in the past? Or how many times you've been an arrogant dick? Jared Valentine pouting over a girl? It's almost a shame only I get to witness this."

Ryan toasted Jared, "As lame as this sounds, still, with all your flaws you're still my closest friend and yet again as lame as it sounds, happy birthday man, and I hope your only wish comes true."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After bottles of champagne, red and white wine, and rounds of JD on the rocks, Ryan had called it a night. It was only eleven.

After riding a taxi with Ryan and putting him to bed, (since he was so drunk he couldn't even walk) Jared left in the same taxi and made his way home.

Coming out from the shower, Jared heard a faint knock at his front door. Pulling on sweatpants and using a small towel to dry his hair, he wondered who was at the door. No one would come this late, save for his close friends who had access to the place.

He opened the door and could not believe what he was seeing.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared stared at the beautiful woman in front of him. His breath was sucked right out of him. He couldn't breath. Was he dreaming? Was he that deluded and crazy he started to imagining things? It must have been the drinks he and Ryan had.

"Alin?" He said foolishly as their gazes locked.

His apartment was dark, but the light from where she was standing outside, she could clearly see him. He hadn't changed at all, save from the growing stubble. But that just strangely added to his appeal. Damn, Alin thought why did he have to look so good?! You're here to talk. Just talk. Alin chanted to herself over and over, but who the hell was she kidding?

The truth was she had battled whether to come or not for weeks. Since she had things still at his apartment, which were very dear to her, like the architecture tools her mother had brought her when she had insisted on being an architect when she was younger. Also, items from her childhood and photographs that, at the time when she was packing was not the immediate items that she needed.

However she had debated when to go and for weeks had kept putting it off, and eventually chose today to come. Still, who was she kidding? Today was his birthday and she knew she had used it as any excuse coming to see him today. Even if just for one night, she needed him. Desperate to prove that she wasn't that attracted to him, that one more night would be enough...

Jared still looked at her. This must be a dream. And then his dream was short-lived as a few thoughts suddenly entered his mind. Was she here to collect her stuff? Then a worst thought entered his mind: was she here to tell him that she hated him before taking her stuff? Laced with uncertainty, Jared blurted out, "Alin, w-why are you here?"

Alin blushed. Not knowing how to answer, without sounding stupid. She forgot to add that he was topless. That definitely did NOT help.

"I...um...came to collect some of my stuff. I'm sorry it's so late, but today was the only day I could come."

Jared watched as she reddened. Was he making this more difficult for her? Did she hate him that much that she was angry when he spoke to her, was she-

"Can I come in?" Alin whispered but didn't look at him.

"Oh yeah, s-sure I'm sorry I'm just a little dazed after drinking with Ryan tonight. Come in." He moved away so that she could walk pass and then he closed the door behind him. Watching her retreating back, he missed the days when he could wrap his arms around her waist. Don't push her, he reminded himself.

"D-do you want something to drink?"

Alin turned and looked at him. He was still topless with a small towel around his neck. His hair ruffled. "Thanks, just a glass of water will do."

"You can go ahead and get the stuff I'll come in and help you in a minute."

After getting her a glass of water, Jared went to their room and noticed Alin struggling with the heavy box inside the wardrobe, as she tried to push it back, he could see it was about to fall on her.

Putting the glass down on her vanity table, he moved swiftly and was behind her. Reaching up he pushed the box back.

He breathed a sigh of relief, though he quickly realised the position he was in. The close proximity he was to her. Don't push her, he reminded himself again. But he couldn't move. He missed her. He didn't want to let her go.

Alin froze. He was so close to her she could hear his breathing as it slowly sped up. Did she affect him as much as he affected her? She could hear her own heart beat.

Alin turned around and since Jared was nearly six inches taller than her, her eyelevel was on the gentle curve of his neck. She was barely an inch away from him.

Jared didn't move and neither did Alin. He really didn't know what to make of the situation. He couldn't read her expression since he couldn't see her. But surly, she was not as indifferent to him as before, since she hadn't moved away from him? Don't be deluded, why would she forgive you?

Before he could over think anymore, Alin tiptoed and her lips were on his. His brain tried to process a thousand things in a space of three seconds. He couldn't comprehend what was happening as he slightly tumbled back. She darted out her tongue to lick his lips, and then his brain stopped working. His heart pumped a thousand beat a minute. Damn was that even possible? Blood going to his head, he was dizzy, but in a good way, a very good way. He opened his lips, their tongues met. He turned her around and never breaking contact with her lips, he manoeuvred her so that he could kick the door shut and switch on the lights. He wanted so badly to see her. He felt as her hand hesitantly went to his torso, as she stroked his hard muscles. He felt his blood now pumping down there. He could feel his cock start to harden.

Fuck, fuck, not now! Not when he was trying hard to make sure he didn't scare her with his inability to keep himself in check. Because to be honest he still wasn't sure what the hell was going on. Alin continued to lean closer and kiss him, and then her hands slid to his very hard cock. She slowly and lightly started to stroke it through his sweatpants. Seriously if this is a dream, Jared would die. Her hands alone were making him so hard he didn't know if he'd come right away.

Jared broke away from her soft plump lips reluctantly and stepped back a little. If he kissed her any longer coupled with her hands tentatively stroking his cock leisurely, he was bound to come or make love to her there and then. He didn't want that. Trying hard to regain his balance, he looked at her just as she opened her eyes and looked right back at him.

She took his breath away.

Jared leaned in, cupping her face in his hands, he stroked her face softly with the pad of his thumb, then tracing her lips swollen from his kisses. Her eyes cast down shyly.

Jared watched her blush as she cast her eyes down displaying her long lashes. She was so beautiful, cute and sexy. Everything she does made him weak with desire and love. He didn't know why she was here, nor could he even distinguish if this was a dream or not. But assuming this wasn't a dream. She was in his arms, loving him. Jared felt his heart swell. She loved him. There were no other reasons for her to be here with him but one thing he was sure was, that tonight he had to make this right. He leaned close to linger his lips on her, instead of kissing her and distracting both of them, he decided to do the right thing. Ignoring his erection, Jared whispered, "Alin, tell me now you don't want me, because it would kill me...if I were to stop myself from loving you. Seeing you tonight here...it makes me so happy, but please tell me I'm not deluding myself. Tell me this isn't a dream. Tell me you want me too, because-"




Not What It Seems Ch. 11



Hi there!

If you're reading this it means you haven't given up on this story and you're (hopefully) enjoying it. I am sorry for the wait, it has taken me a long time to finish this chapter, but I've had a lot of assignments and exams, which has hindered my ability to finish this earlier.

*Oh another note, I am raising money for an amazing charity and a great cause, and I hope along with votes and comments, you can donate money for a challenge I am taking part in, which will raise money towards many projects in Kenya, including providing clean drinking water. Information and the website will be posted on my bio page.

I really do want to thank the readers that have left a comment, voted on chapter ten and listed me as a favourite (amateur) author. I say this all the time but it really does make me smile when readers leave me comments, and not to mention readers correcting my errors. It has made me a better writer (well I hope) and if this chapter is again littered with mistakes, please do be patient with me, it's not easy correcting yourself, but in time I hope I can do a better job.

So this is the end... this has always been how I pictured the conclusion to Jared's and Alin's story and I really hope you guys feel the same.

Its 4am ish right now, I've lost my editor and I did the edit myself, this may likely equate to wrong grammar, spelling sentence structure etc. I don't have any energy in me to read this, after reading this a hundred times. I feel my ability to correct is diminishing, so please forgive me if you do find mistakes.

*I'm sorry for making you cry Alison with Ch10; I hope this CH will put a smile on your face. Thanks to all other readers that enjoyed Ch10. It was very humbling to be told I'm good at this writing business. Oh and thanks amorousjim for the messages, they definitely encouraged me to finish this.

Happy Christmas and New Year!

Ascii

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Twenty five minutes..."

Jared dropped the phone on the floor. He paused and looked down to see the screen on his cell phone shatter. He froze on the spot, just staring at the smashed phone. She'd left him. He knew he deserved it after the callous way he had treated her, but it hurt so much.

Was she that repulsed by him? Did she regret last night? Or was this a final goodbye? A closure to their relationship?

No.

He couldn't leave so many things unsaid. Maybe he was selfish, but he needed answers, he'd rather she told him directly that she hated him and would never see him again than let her leave him like this. Jared knew he had to make things right, which meant starting off with 'mending', his relationship with the Haltor Corporation...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Martin Haltor clenched his fist in anger as he tried hard to digest the news. "No! We were about to sign the contract! What the fuck happened? They can't do that?" He shouted down the phone as his attorney delivered the news. It was a stupid question really, but receiving the news that he would lose a few $100 million dollars' worth of contracts' to an amateur would make any sane and smart man angry and slightly off-balanced.

Just what the hell did Valentine do?

"Okay, fine." Martin huffed down the phone, suddenly feeling light headed, "Tell those bastards, whatever Valentine offered, I'll offer 15% more." It was beyond desperate, the board would likely put pressure for him to quit.

The other end was silent for a moment as his lawyer tried the most diplomatic way to deliver the news to the domineering man. "Mr Haltor, a week ago Mr John Haltor contacted me about withdrawing the initial offer for the contract. I had advised him against it, but he insisted that the offer for Mr. Petrov was too generous. Mr Petrov's team said they'd consider it. I'm afraid, this morning they withdrew the offer and had signed with BankSafe, since the offer offered by the Haltor Corporation was too low.

I contacted you about it, but you were on vacation. Mr John Haltor insisted that it was your wish..." He didn't bother to mention that John's attitude towards the Russians and Chinese was nothing short of obnoxious- even with the extra 15% they wouldn't have got the contract anyway.

Martin was seething.

His grandson- time and time again, has somehow got a kick out of humiliating him, not only that, but also cost him a hell of a lot of money. His personal life was chaotic, with his inability to choose suitable women, Martin thought, as he stifled through the daily antics of his embarrassing grandson plastered again on the front pages of every paper, his arms around two dirty whores.

He wasn't sure what was wrong with his grandson. It seemed he just loved to associate shit with the family name. Martin had thought putting his grandson in charge with some of their major clients would finally give him some sense of responsibility, but how wrong he was to think for one second his grandson wouldn't fuck up.

However, this time, even Martin knew his grandson wasn't that stupid to interfere with those contracts. It must have been Valentine's manipulative ways and, if his intuition was right, it was obvious Jared had some kind of hold on his grandson. Martin scoffed; it wasn't that hard to find skeletons in his grandson's cupboard, since he'd probably be happy to direct you to it.

With the lost contracts he didn't know how he could face the board and shareholders. It was no secret that those greedy fuckers wanted to kick his grandson out.

He sincerely hoped his intuition was wrong. On the other hand, familiar with his grandson's stupidity, it was likely he had got himself into a lot of trouble. It was about time he gave him an ultimatum, maybe even a hard lesson.

Unbeknownst to Martin, things were going to get a lot worst.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

John felt his hand sweat as he held on to the remote control. He switched on his 3D 60inch TV and swallowed hard.

This morning at five he was woken up by the constant ringing of his cell phone. At first he had ignored it. He was tired as hell after rounds of fucking with the two girls who were currently fast asleep on either side of him. He smiled smugly as he remembered the way both girls dropped to their knees and-

"Fuck!" he muttered as his phone rang again. He reached across the girl on his left hand side and picked up the phone from the bed side table. It was Perry Anderson, the senior executive at Haltor Corporation who had been helping him.

"What?" He growled down the phone. The girls was woken up by his harsh tone, but realising his anger was not directed at them, both smiled at him and let their hands wander to his cock. Using one hand, he fondled the blonde's breast leisurely, waiting for Perry to explain why he had decided to call him at this ridiculous time.

John wasn't concentrating on what Perry was talking about. He let him drone on and on whilst one of the girls crawled under the covers and started to tease his cock with her warm lips.

Even through his hazy pleasure state, John did manage to catch a few words. After taking some time to process he asked for Perry to repeat what he had just said. It took all his strength to push those hungry bitches off of him, when reality slapped him hard in his face. Sensing his sudden anger, the girls quickly dressed and left.

"Fuck!" John growled.

Perry had tried hard to explain to him about the shit they were in. His voice shaking he explained that news were already circulating of their involvement personally with Charles and his 'sad' attempt at getting back with Alin. This was going to be the breaking news due to be broadcasted in every major TV network.

After hanging up on Perry in shock, John took a deep breath. Cell phone still in his hand, he tried to control his shaking. Sweat was already gathering on his forehead.

Money can fix this, money can fix this. I'm John Haltor, for fuck sakes! John chanted to himself and felt his heart beat ease a little.

His mind returning to a more rational state, John thought about why his grandfather hadn't contacted him yet. Yeah it was early and US markets may not have fully opened yet, but surly his grandfather would know by now? Though, John knew the old man well, which did not make his situation any better.

His grandfather was a silent killer and believed the best way was to let his preys have their guard down. He knew he was in shit, because by now his grandfather would know that Valentine had got the contracts. But the news today was on a totally different level. He was no better than a dead man.

John crept across his large bedroom and lifted the corners of the blinds. There were a few reporters already lurking around, trying to pretend to be passers-by. John was used to their ways so could spot one a mile away.

John felt the anger in him rise. He clenched his fists so hard that his nails dug into his skin painfully. But he felt nothing but anger.

He was going to kill Jared Valentine- hire someone to put a bullet through his head. They had a fucking agreement and he had broken that. John couldn't believe Jared Valentine would dare do this shit.

But he wasn't worried, money could fix everything, he reminded himself.

After all, he was the only son to carry the bloodline. He was confident his grandfather would somehow help him sweep all this under the rug, of course, after lecturing him.

John was confident his grandfather would never leave him in the gutter.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Martin Haltor massaged his temples. Three days ago he was optimistic, even with having to explain to the board why he (and his grandson) had lost hundreds of millions of dollars, he didn't think it could get much worst. Maybe this was karma. After fucking so many people to get to where he was today, he had to pay back, in the form of his idiotic grandson. His long time friend and The Haltor's Corporation attorney had informed him of the news this morning at the crack of dawn.

At first he thought it was a joke. His grandson might have more money than sense but he really thought it was maybe a late April's Fool joke, because truthfully who could be that stupid?

Then his friend forwarded the front page of every single newspaper and magazine that were due to print the stories of his grandson. Eleven of the most influential newspapers and magazines were plastered with shocking headlines associated with his grandson and would be sold today when markets resumed its activities.

"Can we stop it from printing? Gag those fuckers?"

"Martin," he heard his friend sigh, "There's no way we can gag the media."

"Can we take legal action once it's printed then?!"

Even as the words left his mouth he knew clearly how it worked. Freedom of the press meant there was no way they could sue. Even if there was a case, it would take months, which by the time his grandson's character would've been blackened, dragging the family name into the equation. Even if they eventually did win, they'd be compensated with loose change.

But the worst news was hearing his attorney tell him that the reasons why those influential papers would dare print about his grandson were due to the compelling evidence alleging John's involvement. Also between Martin and his attorney, everyone knew it was true anyway. His grandson was capable of many stupid things; he wasn't surprise to add this to the list.

The truth was, Martin, for sometime had been aware that John had done a lot of shit to ruin Valentine and his company. He was also sure that the E-bid contract they got five years ago was because his grandson hadn't done anything by the book. Though well aware it may have been pretty much illegal, Martin didn't give a shit as long as it made him money.

Martin swept everything off his desk in anger. Slamming his fist on the desk hard, he couldn't comprehend why his incompetent son and his wife only produced one heir to carry on the family name. Sure, Martin did have two daughters who both had sons. His daughters' sons were promising young men, who graduated top in class and have achieved greatly in the Haltor Corporation. However with all their achievements, they weren't a Haltor.

He didn't build his empire to give to other people who didn't carry his surname. All these years they had dotted on John. Years of spoiling him had turned him arrogant, incompetent and foolish.

Martin was always a selfish man. Even if he had to betray his own parents to save himself, he would. He pondered his options and decided if the worst situation was to play out, he would definitely not be the one to pay.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

John underestimated the amount of dogs outside The Haltor Corporation. This morning after kicking the two women out of his bed, he had reassured himself a thousand times that money could fix everything, so had decided to go back to bed, since Perry Anderson woke him up at some ungodly hour.

When he woke up about three hours later, he had hoped everything was just a nightmare. However, when he crept across the room to look outside the window, the amount of reporters' outside, it confirmed that this indeed was not a bad dream.

He began frantically making calls to his attorney 'friend' to see if there was anything he could do to repair the damage. However, there was one very important thing he learnt. When you're down, no one wanted to be associated with you- no one. It was as if he was an incurable contagious disease. All the people that were his so-called friends, who would lick his ass, didn't return any of his calls. He was desperate and his grandfather still hadn't called him. He wasn't sure what the hell was going on, but he could feel something sinister lurking around.

It didn't help with the statement Jared released this morning either.

He peeked outside the window once again and saw the growing numbers of reporters and paparazzi hanging outside his lush penthouse. Fucking dogs, he thought. He had to get to the office and see his grandfather and their attorney and see if there was anything he could do. His grandfather was a powerful man. There must be a way, John reassured himself, and with the help of his assistants they left his penthouse via the back.

But now as he arrived at the building he didn't know how to get out of his car. He had already informed security to guard outside so that he could get to the top floor quickly. He took a deep breath and exited the car. Even with his sunglasses on, of course they were able to spot him. The crowd of paparazzi and reporters were all over him.

"John, John..."

"John is it true about the allegations that you were the one behind the release of the pictures with Alin?"

"Charles Francis was arrested last week for fraud and selling company secrets to The Haltor Corporation and according to the NY Daily Times you were involved. Do you have any comments to make?"

"This morning Jared Valentine, who hardly releases personal press statement expressed that whoever was involved in these scandals, he'd see to receiving justice. What do you have to say to this?"

"Shut the fuck up." John screamed at the paparazzi as they tried to get the best picture of him.

"The Haltor Corporation's shares dropped 19% today. Is there pressure for you to resign?" They continued further provoking him.

"Many sources claimed Alin Fanning refused to marry you in the past because she found out you were the one behind her split with Jared Valentine five years ago. According to MT.COM you orchestrated the whole thing. Is that true?"

"John, here, John, John..."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared read the morning newspaper with his feet on the desk. He was a professional and normally this sort of posture and behaviour wouldn't be seen dead on him, but this place wasn't his- yet. Besides, remaining professional, was definitely not on his agenda today.

"Jenny, Jenny!" John shouted as he got out of the elevator. "Where is my grandfather? Fucking dogs! I want to see no one reading any papers today with my face on it or anyone surfing the web with any news associated with me, okay? Make sure IT monitors the web and informs me so I can personally fire their fucking ass. Make sure no one is here. Make sure no one enters this floor! Do you understand?"

Jenny looked at John fearfully.

"Are you stupid? I said do you fucking understand me?

She nodded but was about to speak when he cut her off. "Also, make sure security get those dogs away."

"Mr Haltor-"

"Are you listening to anything I'm saying, you stupid bitch?"

She gasped in shock, as tears formed in her eyes. Before she could protest, Jared came strolling out of the office. "John, seriously manners and respect for those who work for you don't cost." He turned to Jenny, "Jenny, it's okay, have an early day. Go home and get refreshed, okay?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Four hours before...

"Mr Valentine, reception just called up... Martin Haltor's PA informed that he's waiting outside in his car. He's requesting to see you."

Jared got into his office at four this morning. He couldn't sleep and he knew if he didn't get in extra early this morning, there was no way in hell he could with the amount of reporters and paparazzi ready to pounce on him.

Besides, today Jared knew Martin would come to see him. Damage control was definitely needed at The Haltor Corporation. Jared knew he had the upper hand in the situation but seeing as the old man was a cunning fox, he knew he had to prepare himself mentally, if he was to bargain with the old man.

Jared knew exactly what he wanted and no matter what he'd definitely be getting it by the end of today.

Jared smiled slowly, "Sara, do you mind escorting him up?"

She nodded in understanding, used to her boss's way. She too had to come in at some ludicrous time today, but the pros far outweighed the cons, and besides he was too generous to her, so it really didn't matter to Sara too much, "Of course, Mr Valentine.

Martin Haltor with his sunglasses on entered the building, greeted by Valentine's PA. As they arrived on the top floor, Martin knew the games have officially begun. Valentine was devious, but he forgot he was still an amateur at this. If he thought he could fuck up an empire he built when he was still in his diapers, he had another thing coming.

"Martin," Jared said as he got up to shake his hand. "Sara, please get us some refreshments."

The old man did not extend his hand, "No it's okay. This won't take long." Martin said impatiently, noting Jared's smirk. He couldn't wait to wipe that grin off of the kid's face.

Jared nodded to Sara, indicting she could leave and go about her usual work. "Only if you're sure, Martin," he retorted, "Anyway, to what do I owe this honour of you visiting my humble office?"

"Valentine, cut the bull crap, you know why I'm here!"

Jared shook his head and went around his large desk and sat on his chair. He had always somewhat admired Martin Haltor. The old man was a pioneer of modern financial and communication services and a respected figure in the business world. When he was a teenager, he aspired to be just like Martin Haltor, with his business acumen and cool persona. Now, watching the old man clench his fist in anger and talking to him in that tone, Jared never would have guessed him to be so blatant.

His lips curled. "Martin, take a seat, please, I insist." He gestured to the chair.




Not What It Seems Ch. 11



Martin pulled the chair forcefully, so that it landed on the floor. "Valentine, I said cut the fucking bull crap. Don't try to play games with me. You think you can fuck with me? You're an amateur trying to run with the big boys. By the end of the week, you'll be out of the business!"

Jared snorted, "Coming from a man, whose company shares dropped 19% this morning. By late morning everyone will know what a piece of shit your grandson is. Is that the bull crap you wanted me to tell you?"

"I knew it was you who sold the story," Martin narrowed his eyes, "Motherfucker! You know what, withdraw the story and release a statement apologising and I'll pretend nothing happened. I won't sue-"

"You're right. I'm glad we're thinking along the same lines," Jared said as he lay back in his chair, "In fact, it'll be a personal statement. As you may or may not know, I hardly release personal statements but because you came all the way here, out of respect I'll clear the air with the media-"

"-Good, I knew you weren't completely stupid to fuck with me-"

"-I'll make sure the media knows every single shit your grandson has done, which is out of respect for you, seeing as I've helped you save your company from being ruined by your beloved grandson." Jared said as he took in Martin's shocked expression. He got up and looked at the old man mockingly, "Maybe you're too old for this, Martin. A little bit of advice, retire before you mess up the empire you've created."

Martin banged his fist on Jared's desk, "I'll sue you, if you fuck with me! I swear I'll ruin you! Drop this or I'll personally make sure no one would want to work with you again. You know if I make one phone call I can guarantee you, you'd be worth fuck all by the end of the day."

"You know threats don't work on me." Jared retorted dangerously. "Who the fuck do you think you are"? He said through gritted teeth, "Maybe ten years ago you were still respected and this threatening bullshit may work, now? You look pathetic. Let me tell you this, I know all the connections you have and I know what you're capable of. Your threats mean nothing to me.

As for your company, the shares dropped 19% today. I've always wanted to know how powerful the media can be. Guess your worthless shares proved an eye-opener even for me. I'll gladly see how your board will take this news. As for suing me, I'll see if your lawyers can build a case- money laundry, breaking competition laws and fraud? That's your grandson's crime. Fix the mess at home, before you come here and bark like a dog."

Jared took a pile of documents out from his draws and threw it on his desk, "You think you can come in here and threaten me? Look at the shit your grandson's been doing for the past five years to my business, not to mention hiring photographers to take pictures of my girlfriend, insinuating an affair with him." Jared laughed out loud, "The pathetic attempt your grandson has gone to will surly turn your family into a joke for all your high society friends to laugh about. And you want to sue. Fuck me that must be the funniest shit I've heard in years."

Martin picked up the documents from his desk, studying it, he swallowed hard. He didn't care if his grandson was fucking Valentine up, to him that was a good thing, but never get caught! He couldn't believe his grandson would spend million of dollars to play a game. To John it wasn't about business, it was personal affairs. He wanted that stupid whore? Martin knew his mistake. Provoking Valentine was not a smart move, his increasing influence, not to mention his net worth and connection with the Chinese and Russians, no one would dare fuck with Valentine anymore.

Trying to look as remorseful as he could, Martin muttered, "I didn't know."

"It was your fucking job to know. And out of what little respect I have for you, get your fucking ass out of my office, 'cause if I call in security," Jared gestured to the window where reporters were already standing outside, "I'm sure the reporters will love the shot of you being dragged out by my security staff."

He took a deep breath, "I'm sure there's something we can work out." Martin stated desperately, his tone strangely different from five minutes ago, "I can pay damages to you if you keep this quiet-"

"Seriously, do you think throwing a few million dollars will solve this? Come on, you've been in business for over forty years, do you think I can stop the press if I wanted to?"

Jared thought about it, "Actually maybe I could," He shrugged, "But I don't want to. Maybe if you weren't acting the way you were five minutes ago I would have considered, but now? Get the fuck out."

Martin pondered his limited choices, he couldn't risk his position. "Listen, if you want that son of a bitch, take him, but don't drag my company down. I never intended to disrespect you. Whatever you want, if it's within my reach I'll compromise with you-"

Jared smiled but it was cold and dangerous. He'd been waiting for Martin to say those exact words. "I want a majority stake in The Haltor Corporation..."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

John watched the shocking exchange between his nemesis and his PA, "What are you doing here," he shouted in rage, "we had an agreement and you sold me out!" Jenny, get the security to get this shit out of my office!"

When she did not respond, he turned and saw her bag was gone from her desk, fucking bitch. He turned back around to see Jared's smirk. Taking two strides to close the distance between them, John was about to throw a punch, when Jared caught his pathetic attempt and grabbed onto his arm and shoved him back. He fell onto the hard floor.

"Don't embarrass yourself."

John narrowed his eyes, "You fucking cunt. I gave you all the contracts you asked for, risking my position in the company and you sold me out!"

"Risking your position?" Jared rolled his eyes, "the shareholders and the board wanted you out a long time ago. They wanted your cousins to take your place. If it wasn't for your grandfather insisting you be in charge, you would've been nothing."  

"FUCK YOU! Get the fuck out! Get the fuck out!"

"I think I should be saying those words to you."

"What the-"

"No one told you?" His lips curved into a lazy smile, "While you were probably sleeping this morning, your grandfather came to beg me in exchange for saving his own name."

Jared bent down so he was level with John, "He sold part of this company to me. I now own the majority stake in the business." He whispered, letting his words slowly sink in.

John gasped, "That's not fucking possible!"

"Well, if you don't understand the logistics of how M&A works, feel free to search it up. Last time I checked, the value of the shares dropped by 19%, do you really think he had a choice? If it weren't that it would have been a hostile takeover by either my company or any other company that wants to buy it out. Most of the board has already agreed and so will the shareholders. Your grandfather, he was happy to fuck you over to save his name, in fact I'm sure he'd release a statement soon to cut all ties with you" Jared shrugged his shoulders, "guess that runs in the family."

John got up, clenching his fist, blinded by anger he tried to take another swing at Jared, but was yet again held down in a lock by Jared. Pushing him onto the desk, face flat, he held him there. "Don't make me call up security and add assault to your sentence. Jared released his grip on him, "I'll give you five minutes to pack your shit."

He strolled towards the door and turned to see John slumped on the ground, "I told you not to fuck with me. I told you not to mess with Alin. Even seeing your ass in jail will never make up for losing her."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*"

It had been an extremely long six and a half weeks. It was much harder than she thought it was going to be. Was leaving an option? Am I here to escape or for my career? Those questions remained unanswered for her. However, it was especially hard when Jared refused to give up on her. So when a letter arrived at her new home address in Beijing, Alin couldn't help but feel disappointed by the lack of support and trust from her own friends.

Alin tore open the envelope. She recognised the handwriting and had debated for a long time whether to open it or not. The truth was she knew that if she opened it it'll just upset her further. But curiosity and longing temporarily won. She sighed as she gave into temptation.

She reached inside and the first thing she noticed was two words: Forgive Me?

Those were the words on the front of a hand drawn card. Below the two words was a cartoon drawing of a boy in a suit, with slightly messy hair, pursed lips and a somewhat helpless expression. Both his arms were stretched out and he held a bunch of roses in his hand.

Alin remembered back when they were dating, she visited his place and found a sketchpad of cartoon drawings in his room from his high school years. Jared told her he liked to draw when he was bored. It was a hobby of his that only close family and friend should know, because it did no good for his reputation. She had marvelled at how talented he actually was.

Why does he do these things to me unexpectedly all the time? When I'm ready to give up, he just knows my weakness and messes with me, Alin thought.

"I'm sorry." It read inside the card.

The gesture and effort he had put into it tugged at her heart.

It may be nothing special in someone else's eye, but in her eyes, this meant more than him buying endless expensive presents for her.

How can I hate him, when he does these things for me?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Alin!"

Even through the loud construction noises Alin could hear Steven call for her. She looked up from the prototypes and excused herself from her team.

"Steven, what's wrong? She shouted through the noise.

He held onto her arm and took her outside. "Good news or bad news?"

She rolled her eyes but a small smile appeared on her lips. The best thing to happen to her so far was having Steven as her boss. He was professional, extremely intelligent, but strangely down to earth and fun."

"Okay, I'm going to mix it up a little bit. Everyone chooses bad news first. I'm going to throw caution to the wind and go for the former."

"I don't need you to go to any of the locations next week-"

"Um, Steven how is that good news? That was the main selected location for the chains to be in! Not to mention the fact that we used the past two weeks to secure it!"

He held his hand up apologetically, "Well it's better than the latter. I didn't want to give you a choice of bad news and shit news."

"But what happened?"

"Just bureaucratic bullshit, planning permission and other problems. They approved it for us a while back but now they're throwing in dumbass excuses. Nothing we can do. And now we have some investors pulling out, which means not enough funds." He shrugged his shoulders, but Alin could see the worry marring his handsome face.

"I'm sorry, Steven. Shareholders must have given you a hard time?"

"Yeah those fat bastards, all they care are their returns, returns, their fucking returns. If we don't secure the contract and get these chains off the ground even more investors are going to pull out, which means other projects, especially those in the Middle East may not take off."

She patted his shoulder affectionately, "I'm so sorry." But then she smiled up at him trying to cheer him up, "I'm sure everything will work out. You always make it work out in the end."

He arched one brow, "That's why I hired you- to take care of my bruised ego. Anyway, did you read the news today?" he said trying to sound as casual as possible.

Alin knew what news he was referring to. In fact it was pretty hard to miss, since every newspaper and channels were reporting it. She was disgusted that John could do this to her. Ryan and Jared had tried to tell her a few weeks ago that John was behind all this, at the time, she was so furious with Jared, that no matter what they've told her it would have not mattered.

The card she received from Jared still made her feelings towards him ever more confused; she didn't know what she was supposed to feel. But after the news of John's betrayal it pained her to realise that all these years, John had planned this out so maliciously. Jared wasn't to blame... forgive him, forgive him; he deserves a chance, a second, third, fourth ... but that was it, wasn't it? How many chances did she have to give him before he would finally give her a shred of dignity?

No more, Alin no more. She repeated to herself.

"If you want to take the afternoon-"

"No." She shook her head. "I'm okay. I've been here for less than two month, and already taking time off?"

"There's a million photographers, journalist, paparazzi camping outside. I just want to give you a heads up. I've upped the amount of security and one will escort you home. But still, now is the time to go home, not three hours later. I assure you it'll be a lot worse."

"Nope."

"Alin-"

"Steven, let me work so that you can justify my generous salary?"

He chuckled, "Fine, don't go running to some union complaining about health and safety at work if a paparazzi knocks you over. I can't take any more shit from the shareholders."

"Well, I won't if I get my end of year bonus." She said and winked at him.

He rolled his eyes playfully, "Wait until you meet the shareholders next month-"

"Why would I need to meet them so-?"

She stopped when she saw a cunning grin on his face. "I've warned you." And with the final 'warning' he turned away and left her.

Alin went back to work, wondering how in the hell she would make her way back home. Though everyday she was on site early and probably the last one to go home, sometime working a fourteen hour shift alongside her team, it felt great to finally be able to achieve something. Truthfully, for the past week she had been drowning herself in work, maybe working a little too hard than necessary. The pain of the past few months' event were still too raw for her to move on from, so naturally work helped her heal somewhat.

Ryan was due to fly out next month with Hallie. Though she loved it here, it was nice to have a little companionship, instead of communicating with her best friends through Skype or phone calls.

What about, Jared? You want to see him too.

Alin groaned. Where the hell did that come from? No I don't want to see him! Why would I? I wouldn't have thought about him if Steven hadn't brought it up.

Liar.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Hallie, can you hear me?"

Alin waved at the webcam, as she saw the small frown on Hallie's face

"Yeah I can now. You know I love using this, but sometimes we spend forty-five minutes asking the 'can you hear me' question."

Alin giggled, "I know, but we'll have to live with this until you come here NEXT MONTH! I'm so excited you have no idea-"

"Umm... about that, Alin, I'm sorry-"

"Why?"

"Jack's parent's anniversary coincides with the dates. I can fly out next next month. I'm really sorry!"

"No, it's okay I mean I still get to see you, so it's okay. It's not as if I won't see you forever."

Hallie sighed, "Aww, I miss you Alin. I really can't wait to come out. And by the way, Mrs Brown sends her love-"

Alin gasped, "Oh shoot." She smacked her forehead lightly, "I totally forgot!"

Hallie grinned, "Don't worry. I knew you were busy, so I didn't want to tell you. I went to see the kids already. I told Mrs Brown that you left because this contract was pretty sudden."

"God, I feel so awful. I see the kids every year."

"Don't worry they understand!" Hallie reassured her friend.

"Thanks, Hals, I love you."

"I know, I know! Oh just a warning, when I do come I better see some meat on your bones, so you better be eating properly, okay? No more fourteen hour shifts, okay?"

Alin gave a mock salute, "Yes mam!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Congratulations, Jared. After the successful merger with Media One and then the merge with one of the most affluent Chinese companies, we'd always thought BankSafe and HTU were bitter rivals...are there reasons why they've agreed to sell the majority shares to you? Is the alleged rumours about John Haltor true?"

There was nothing Jared hated more than press conferences, but since he had acquired one of the most affluent companies, it seemed fitting as CEO to at least attend this tedious bullshit.

"You know I can't tell you that due to legal reasons. But I can tell you that our company is ecstatic to be able to expand our operations, especially through the merger with HTU. We will strive to bring the best to our customers, through competitive pricing and improved services."

"But John Haltor and one of BankSafe's executive were arrested, is there any connection? As for Martin Haltor, multiple sources suggested that he was forced to sell shares to you, since the scandal with his grandson and The Haltor Corporation's loss in value?" Another journalist asked.

He shook his head, "As I've said I can't answer any questions on anything related to the investigations..."

Changing the tone, another journalist quickly interjected, "Jared, since the successful merger a week ago, you're net worth has jumped. It's reported in Forbes that you're now worth a staggering $1.2billion."

Smiling, Jared replied, "That sounds like an awful lot, but yeah I'm not sure. This, I may have to go ask the guys who do the accounts for me. I'll get back to you?"

That earned laughs from the crowd, following from the previous question, another asked, "Is it true about John Haltor and Alin? Was it John behind all of this? Is it all just a misunderstanding and-"

Jared stood up, "I'm sorry. I'm afraid it'll have to end today." He left abruptly, leaving Tom and Rita to answer the rest of the questions. He was not about to indulge the public in his private life.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared sat at his desk staring out into the bustling streets of Manhattan. He found himself in his office late at night again. He didn't like going back home, because that was where he could still feel her presence everywhere: the sweet scent of her in his bed, her relaxed form on the couch, laughing at some sitcom on TV.

He wasn't sure if she had received the card. Maybe she hated it; maybe she thought he was immature but Jared wanted to show her he had changed. In the past he didn't like people to know the 'real' him often hiding behind his tough guy façade. But now he really wanted to show her he no longer cared about how people looked at him. He only cared how she thought of him.

Today, after the press conference, he had another three interviews to do. To be honest he made sure Sara scheduled them so that he could get everything done in one day, once and for all. There were many journalists trying to delve into his private life, meandering through the subject around his current relationship with Alin. Not only would he not want to discuss his private life with the media, there was essentially nothing to talk about. She had left him. What was there to say?

He knew he was at fault though. Yes, Haltor had planned it, but now Jared understood that he was the one who took the bait, he was the one that treated her badly and he knew that his lack of trust in her was the root of the problem. But to find her so loving in his arms that night and then leave him was painful. He had continued to call her after practically begging Hallie on his knees to give him Alin's number and also sending her letters... but she replied to none.




Not What It Seems Ch. 11



Did she still love him like he loved her? After all that happened, would she still give him another chance?

Bringing John Haltor down should have made him happy. But Jared found he couldn't even smile. Gaining success, proving to everyone that he was the best in the business should have made him happy, since that was what he vowed to do one day after getting knocked back so many times by ruthless people. None of this success meant anything though, because Alin wasn't there to share it with him.

Jared opened the draws and took out a photograph he secretly treasured of him and Alin when they went to the theme park with Ryan, Hallie and the kids. He had one arm draped across her shoulder whilst she had hers around his waist. She was laughing at something he whispered in her ear. The moment was captured by Hallie and when she sent those pictures to them, Jared secretly took it to develop.

He'd do anything to see that smile again.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin tried so hard to wait patiently, glancing at her watch for the sixth time in the space of twenty minutes. Ryan was finally coming over and there was nothing she could do to wipe the smile off of her face. There was no doubt she loved being in Beijing. The people were friendly, and she even made a few friends she knew she would never lose contact with even after leaving. Also, she even managed to learn a bit of mandarin and even the locals and her colleagues were impressed with her ability to speak it so well! But having Ryan around would be less lonely for her.

She glanced at her watch for the umpteenth time. He should have arrived twenty minutes ago. If she was right, Ryan should be collecting his baggages right now. Where the hell was he?

"Alin!"

Hearing her name she turned and quickly gasped in shock, but it was quickly replaced with a big smile on her face. She crouched down and opened her arms to an over enthusiastic Alex as he ran up to her and hugged her tightly; the intensity nearly tumbled her over!

"Oh honey," she picked him up and flung him up high before catching him again, "I miss you!"

"I miss you too." He pouted.

Over her shoulders Alin could see the big smiles on Hallie's and Ryan's faces from afar as they waved at her almost manically. Ryan carried some of their hand luggage whilst he pushed the trolley with the larger luggages on. Hallie had Penny in her arms and was chatting happily away with him. As he pushed the trolley, he gave a small kiss on Penny's cheek as she gurgled happily at him.

Alin watched them and saw the big smile on both of their faces. They were happy in each other's company. For a long time, Alin knew their relationship was a little more than platonic... but seeing them now, they looked like one happy family. She would have to talk some sense into Hallie soon.

Alin strolled towards the smiling couple hand in hand with Alex. When she reached them, she threw her arms around both of them. Pulling back and with tears in her eyes she punched Ryan softly on his arms, "You liar! And you," She turned to Hallie with mock accusation in her eyes, "How dare you not tell me BOTH of you were coming?"

"I wanted to surprise you!" Hallie grinned.

"It was a good surprise!"

Penny grew restless in Hallie's arm and was reaching towards Alin, still gurgling happily. Alin cooed at the baby, "Looks like you missed me too!" She took hold of the baby and cradled her.

"Let me take you guys home."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Oh my god, this place sure is amazing!" Hallie marvelled, as Alin took her on a tour. "This place is so grand, yet it's so warm. I love it! Do you think Steven would mind us staying here?"

Alin shook her head as she took a bite out of her sandwich, "Steven offered to find an apartment just like this one for Ryan, but I told him we wouldn't mind staying together. Since you're here this makes it even better. Anyway where is Ryan?"

Hallie shrugged, "Not sure he said he was gonna take a shower. Then he told me to rest and he'll bathe Alex and ready him for bed. Alex is still running on NY time, I guess-"

Currently fast asleep in the guest room's bed, his hair still wet and in a bathrobe was Ryan, and curled up beside him was Alex. The way Ryan was with Alex touched Hallie's heart. She couldn't comprehend why a friend of hers could be more caring to her son, than his own father. She was about to say something, anything to wake them up so that she could retain some sort of control over the situation. It wasn't right that this man could show so much love to her son.

Alin stopped her, and placed her finger on her own lips, motioning her friend to be quiet. Closing the door, she ushered Hallie towards the living room, while she went to the open kitchen and told her to wait for her whilst she fixed something for her to eat.

After a few minutes, Alin came out with two bowls of steaming noodle with soup, one mildly spicy for Hallie and one extra spicy for herself. Though she missed her bagel and hot dog fix, the food here was definitely something she was fast coming to adore.

Handing it to Hallie she sat down on the couch and switched on the TV. Keeping the volume low, she turned to see Hallie gazing into the bowl of noodles.

"Try it, it's really nice!" Alin said in between mouthful of noodles.

Hallie shook her head, "It's not that. I-" she sighed, "I'm so worried about Alex getting too attached. Last week he asked me if Ryan was coming along and when I told him I wasn't sure, he burst into tears and said that he wanted 'Daddy' to come. I patiently explained to him Jack's going to be busy with work but he just shook his head and said Ryan was his daddy..."

She continued to gaze into her bowl. Alin waited patiently and shifted so that she had her arm around her friend.

"Alin, I'm so confused." She looked from the bowl, "I just don't understand how he could be so nice and caring to me and the kids. It's just I-"

They were interrupted by a loud whack and then a giggling child. They rushed to the guest room to see Ryan on the floor, Alex on the bed, each with a pillow in a hand. Alex was laughing so loud at his obvious victory over Ryan.

When they spotted Hallie and Alin, both smiled at them goofily. "MOM!" He exclaimed happily getting off the bed to drag her in. "Come play with us. This is soooo much fun! I love this house!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

It was much later in the night when Alin found Hallie on the balcony, leaning on the railing.

"Alex had a nightmare earlier and asked if Ryan could stay with him." Hallie said breaking the silence. "Ryan was the first one to rush to him when he cried out. He held Alex in his arms, patting him on the back to get him to calm down. He's never even shown that much affection to his own father. Alex's never once asked for Jack."

"Hallie," Alin started but unsure whether she should really tell her friend how she felt about the situation. She wanted nothing more than Hallie to be happy, and in these few years she had tried to get her friend to open up but to no avail. Alin desperately wanted her friend to be happy again, "Jack...he doesn't deserve you."

Hallie gasped, about to say something, even deny it but Alin stopped her.

"Hallie, I hope one day you can open up to me. I love you and I want you to be happy. I know you're not ready to talk to me, but know that I'll always be there for you."

Alin smiled at her warmly, but she was momentarily taken aback when suddenly Hallie threw her arms around her. "I love you, Alin. You're the best."

Alin chuckled and patted Hallie on the head, "Anytime."

Hallie remained in her friend's arm for a few minutes before she broke apart from her. She looked at her and said, "Alin... would you ever forgive Jared?"

She took in her shocked expression. Ever since Alin moved to Beijing, Hallie hadn't said anything about Jared, save from telling her about what happened to John. Hallie sincerely hoped she wasn't going to be mad at her.

"I..." Alin started as Hallie looked at her intently. "Um..." she wasn't sure if she wanted to tell the truth, "Hallie...I went to see Jared the day before I left."

"That day was his birthday..." Hallie stopped herself. Taking in Alin's faint blush, she couldn't help but laugh.

Alin glared at her friend, "Hey... it's n-not funny!"

Hallie tried to control her laughter, "I'm laughing at the way you're blushing guiltily. Okay, okay." She tried to put on a serious face, "Serious face now."

"Hallie, I'm not going to lie and tell you I don't miss him. I do. Maybe that's why I went to his place that night...and well I...um stayed the night. But afterwards, it felt so wrong. I can't look at him without thinking back to the way he's treated me. I love him, but I feel so foolish if I was to go back to him."

"But that's it...you love him. He's done stupid things, but you have no idea how sorry he is. Alin, trust your heart."

Hallie waved her hand dismissively, a slight grin on her face "BUT, I'm not telling you to let him off easily. Let him work for it. He deserves to be left in the gutter for a few days before you even look at him."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Jared, can you hear me?" Hallie whispered. "Everyone else is out, so I'm going to talk quietly just in case they come back."

"No problem Hals, how is it over there anyway?"

"Yeah it's good..." Hallie rolled her eyes, "Jared, cut the diplomatic bullshit. Say it"

Jared smiled guiltily, "H-how is she?"

Hallie smiled slyly, "Who?"

"Oh man... you're kinda evil. H-How's Alin?"

"She's happy-"

"Oh..."

"But she'd be happier if someone grew some balls and got on the next flight to see her-"

"You serious?!"

"Of course I am-

"But she doesn't answer my calls, she doesn't respond to my letters, she doesn't-"

"Funny for an intelligent guy you sure can be stupid."

"Ouch. That's just mean Hals" Jared clutched his heart pretending to be hurt.

Hallie laughed, "I know, harsh but true."

"But are you saying she really, I mean really wants to see me?"

"Jared, get here and find out yourself."

Jared sighed, "But what if she doesn't want to see me? What if she-"

Hallie waved her hand dismissively, "You're Jared Valentine...find a way."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The end of spring brought on incredibly hot weather. It was unusual for late June, nearly thirty five degrees but Alin smiled as she headed to work. After staying for nearly three weeks, Hallie had left a week ago, but had promised to come back as soon as she could.

Steven had told her a few weeks back that a new investor with connection with one of Beijing's powerful real estate tycoon had agreed to 'help' them with the red tape. Therefore with this new investor on board, they were able to carry on with the original plan. This meant, working in two locations in Beijing, travelling for three hours every day between locations for Alin, and Ryan flying to Kuwait with Steven to discuss the finer details with the investors and hold a press conference.

Still in between her busy schedule, she still found time to think of him. I have known him since I was nineteen...he was my first love... he was my first- Alin stopped herself, because she hated going down that territory. With each message he left her and each time she thought about him, Alin felt her defence lowering.

She loved him too much to let go, she sincerely he'd give up on her, because she knew she couldn't let go, as much as she wanted too. Ignoring him was hard, and she didn't know how much she could take if she was to see him again.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"I'm so nervous about this. I'm not much of a public speaker. I- I mean when I was at college I used to dread doing presentations."

Steven noted Alin's shaking hand, "Honey, relax. You're doing well. The shareholders will be wrapped around your lil' finger by the time you're finished. And you'd charm the hell out of those journalists. They won't be able to dismiss an intelligent pretty young thing." He got up from the seat, "Come on you're up."

"Can I practice one more time?"

"No, if you don't remember everything, that's okay. It's better if you were natural rather than trying to recite a script. Don't worry you've got Hallie and J- Ryan to cheer you on. Don't you worry." As he walked behind Alin, Steven let out the breath he didn't know he held in. That was too close.

"...and lastly I just want to personally thank Mr Steven Daniels and the Daniels Group for giving me this opportunity to work on this amazing project. May we carry on our success in China and the Middle East."

After the speech champagne and wine were flowing with people chatting happily. Steven told Alin he would introduce her to the investor who had helped them with getting around the red tape, but he wanted her to first meet one of the shareholders.

Alin conversed with him and his wife for a few minutes before she excused herself to seek out Steven, since he had told her he wanted her to meet the other investor, but when she couldn't find him, she tried to find Hallie and Ryan. However, they were nowhere to be seen either, so Alin went out to the large balcony to get some fresh air. She decided to go to a more secluded part of the balcony so that she could enjoy the beautiful scenery alone. The light evening air blew gently and it made her feel instantly better.

She was still buzzing from the adrenaline from the successful speech after nervously reciting and practising for days on end. She leaned across the glass railing and watched the sunset. After a while she felt a shiver, as she was wearing a red floor length off-the shoulder dress. Alin rubbed her arms to fend off the chills but decided that it was best to head back inside.

Just as she was about to turn back inside, someone laid a tuxedo jacket on her shoulders. Surprised at the kind yet strange gesture, Alin turned around to thank the person, but what she saw surprised her.

"J-Jared..."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Ryan, are you sure they'd be okay? I mean don't you think we should be there to act as a peacemaker in case something turns bad."

He smiled at her, "Trust me, Jared will know what to do, he loves Alin, he'd do anything not to mess up. Besides, Alin will be happy to see him... in her own way."

"I guess you're right, but we should still see in maybe twenty minutes. You know I still feel bad for leaving her!"

"If we didn't leave her, how would Jared get the chance to be alone with her?"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Seeing Alin out in the balcony, wearing a red dress with her hair loosely curled was reminisce of their first meeting. Jared felt a sudden wave of longing because he knew this was a world apart from how they first met.

He waited for a long time thinking of ways to approach Alin. He had kept a low profile so that no one knew he was here, save for Ryan, Hallie and Steven. He had waited for everyone to be occupied, before slipping outside onto the balcony. Watching Alin from behind, he itched to have his arms around her. He contemplated for a long time how he could go to her without scaring her. Hi Alin how are you? Yeah as if that works Jared thought thinking how stupid he was. He was nervous as hell. He looked back and saw Alin rub her arms warding off the light breeze, without thinking he took his tuxedo jacket off and walked to her. He laid the jacket on her shoulders.

Sensing her slightly tense from the possible intrusion, he watched her turn with a smile on her face, but when she saw him, he watched her surprise expression. He heard her whisper his name in disbelief.

"Why are you here?" Alin said quietly breaking the silence.

Jared was slightly taken aback by the question and the icy tone that accompanied it. He did expect it, but it still hurt to know that she was still indifferent to him. Without thinking he blurted out, "I'm here b-because I invested in the Daniels Group."

Jared had pondered the best way to win Alin back and he decided that if he wanted to at least be close to her and see her, he had to do this via her involvement with The Daniels Group. He knew that the hotel chains they were planning in Beijing had hit a dead end due to planning permission, but luckily because of Tao Zhang's connection with powerful political figures and retail estate moguls, he was able to influence the decision. However, though that was sorted out, the delay meant more investors were pulling out of the project, therefore seeing the potential in the project and the major reason being able to be close to Alin, Jared decided to invest in the hotels.

However, taking in her current expression, Jared knew she was not impressed.

Alin slipped his jacket off and handed it back to him, "I must thank you for saving hundreds of jobs. The mysterious investor that Steven told me about must have been you. I thought it was strange how one minute we couldn't get the contracts and the next we could get it."

"Alin-"

"Well, it was nice meeting you but I think I'll head back inside now."

"Wait!" he held onto her wrist and Alin turned. He saw the sudden hurt in her eyes and he hated himself for hurting her.

"Jared, what do you want from me?" she whispered.

"I miss you. I invested in the chains, because I knew how much you wanted to work out here. Ryan told me as much. And I wanted to see you."

"Jared, stop throwing money at me! Just because you're wealthy, it doesn't give you the right to control me!"

"No! Alin," He shook his head furiously, "That's not what I mean. I... I truly wanted to see you, I want to see you happy. Maybe I took the wrong approach. I know why you're ignoring, but I wanted so badly to see you. I don't know what else I can do to see you so I-"

"You can't just come h-here and-" She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, "Why won't you let me move on?"

"Because I love you and I know you feel the same for me. That night when you came to me I couldn't forget it, I-"

She held her hand stopping him, "Don't." she shook her head, "Jared, please I beg you, please don't. I came to you because I wanted to say goodbye, and yes I'll admit I've never stopped thinking about you even being thousands of miles apart from you. But even knowing the truth about what John did doesn't change anything. Do you really think our relationship could ever be the same?"

Her words tugged at his heart. He knew winning her back wasn't going to be easy, "I know it will never be the same. But I can't give up on what we have. You're the one for me and I know I'll never find a girl like you again. Because I truly love you, and I'm begging you to give me another chance to prove to you I've changed."

A tear slid down her cheek, "J-Jared, I've given you too many chances."

He dropped his head in shame, "Alin, I know how wrong I am. I know that it wasn't Haltor, Faye or Charles who tore us apart. It was me. I let those people sabotage our relationship. I let them manipulate me in mistrusting you. And you're right, you've given me so many chances that I don't even deserve to ask you again, but... don't you think we can start again? I know it would take time for you to trust me, and I'll wait for you, I'll wait for you for a year, five, ten or however many years it takes for you to trust me, but don't push me away. I never expected you to forgive me straight away. I don't deserve that. I don't deserve anything from you, but I'm begging you not to push me away."

"Jared, that day you left me. I was so hurt... I-I'm scared you'll do that to me again."

Jared walked closer to her hesitantly and sensing she no longer had barriers erected, he walked even closer and eventually wrapped his arms around her, "Alin, I'll never do that again. I love you, I'll never hurt you. Because seeing you hurt, seeing you cry, it kills me inside."

She pulled back from him and hit his chest lightly, "Why do you always, always do this? Why do you make me feel this way? Why can't I move on?" He heard her cry.




Not What It Seems Ch. 11



"Punish me for the way I've treated you, if it takes a life time of redemption for the way I've treated you, so be it...but Alin, please don't push me away." He saw her eyes glistened with tears, using the pad of his thumb he wiped away her tears, "Alin, I love you and I know I can't live without you."

She looked down at the floor, unable to ignore the way she felt. Jared held his breath waiting for her to tell him to go away.

Alin lifted her head to look at him. Searching his expression and found it was full of remorse and sincerity. Seeing him here confused her, the truth was she had always thought if she saw him again, she could easily walk away, but his presence right now, confirmed all of her denials. She loved him and it was getting harder and harder to keep up the pretence. It was tiring to hate someone, especially someone you love.

"Jared," She moved closer to him and lifted her gaze to his. He could see her features soften. She was no longer indifferent to him, "If you hurt me again, I'll never see you again. There's only so many chances I can give, there's only so much I can take-"

Jared's feature went from sad to a huge smile in the space of mere seconds. This may be far off from her reciprocating his feelings, but it was definitely heading in the right direction.

He wrapped his arms around her once more and felt her body relax into his. He stroked her hair tenderly, whispering her name softly.

"I love you, Alin..."

Jared slipped the small velvet box back into his pocket.

Give her time he told himself.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Lurking in the shadows, Hallie and Ryan looked at each other and breathed a sigh of relief. Ryan wiped his forehead with the back of his hand and gave Hallie a lopsided smile. They couldn't hear any of the conversation, but from the way Jared held onto Alin, it was obvious that it was good news.

"You know for a second I really thought Alin was going to walk away from him! I feel guilty we're spying on them like that."

"No!" Ryan laughed, "I won't call it spying! We were checking if they're okay!"

Hallie put her hands on her hips, "So why're we still here?"

"Because finally seeing them together makes me so happy. I mean look at them, it's so damn romantic and cute."

Hallie looked up at him and smiled warmly, "I've waited five years for this day!"

They smiled at each other knowingly.

Suddenly, Ryan found it hard to tear his gaze away from Hallie. She was so beautiful yet he knew she was too good for him. He didn't know what possessed him to reach out to her, but he used the back of his hand to gently stroke her cheek. "Hallie, I-"

"Ryan let's go back inside." Hallie smiled weakly, "I don't want those two to see us."

As they walked back inside, Hallie felt her heart still beating quickly.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Over the next few weeks, Jared was spending the majority of his time back in New York dealing with the takeover of HTU and also the impending case against John and Charles. He hated having to spend time away from Alin after finally being close to her again, but timing always seemed to want to fuck him up again.

Being away from Alin made him nervous again, since he was still trying hard to prove to her he had change, but thousands of miles apart meant it wasn't easy. Not to mention the fact that he got incredibly jealous every time he saw her working closely with Steven. Jared didn't dislike the guy, it was just he was still not sure of his intentions.

He couldn't wait to be back in Beijing and spend time with Alin. They were still living apart, with him renting an apartment nearby. He didn't mind taking it slow and rebuilding his relationship with Alin again, but it was uncomfortable every time he was close to her. Every time he took her back home, they'd say their goodbyes on her front step. Each time he left it was hard- literally. It had been too long since he had any physical intimacy and it drove him crazy. Not to mention each time they parted after a passionate make out session on her front door step or in his car.

Jared could tell Alin wanted to invite him in, but the look in her eyes told him she was still wary of him. Still, he knew sex would've been meaningless if she didn't trust him ...or maybe even love him as much as he did. He wasn't sure when he had become a ball of emotion, but the fact that she didn't express her love for him scared him. he knew he was still pretty much on probation, but the fear of her not loving him back made it difficult for him to concentrate on anything else.

They had been conversing over the phone, but each time was brief with many unspoken words. He had missed her so, and has always wondered if she felt the same for him.

He took his bags from the conveyor belt and stretched a little after the long flight. Rubbing his eyes from the sleepless flight, Jared headed towards the exit, when suddenly his attention was diverted by a beautiful girl staring at her surroundings mindlessly.

"Alin?"

Alin waited patiently occasionally glancing at the screen, checking if the flight had landed safely. She knew she was a little early so decided to walk around for a bit. She finally took this weekend off after working again tirelessly with her team hours, even on weekends too, Steven had practically begged her to take this weekend off. Alin did indeed miss Jared terribly but she really didn't know how to tell him on the phone.

When she heard her name, she turned and saw Jared. He dropped his bags and rushed over to her and hugged her tightly.

She was momentarily shocked but hugged him back just as tightly.

"I've missed you."

The words were out before she could stop it.

Jared pulled back but not enough to let go of her. He stared at her and she lifted her head to look back at him.

He smiled softly at her. "I miss you too." Inside he was bursting with happiness.

Alin bit her lip unsure of the strange feelings boiling inside her. "Would you like to come home with me tonight?"

Jared eyes widened in shock, "Alin, I-I of course, I mean are you sure?"

"Never more positive in my life." She whispered to him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared toured around her apartment alone, relieved to know that Steven was treating her so well, yet scared that she may not want to leave this place. It seemed she liked staying in Beijing a lot.

He was also extremely nervous. Alin had told him she wanted to take a quick shower to freshen up since the weather was really humid in the capital. Even in the evening it was well above Twenty-five degrees. When she told him to stay, he wasn't just thinking about that, though it was a close second. The main concern was why he was here. But she told me she missed me? That should mean something. Doubt and confusion clouded his brain, until he heard her soft voice. He turned around and again was shocked to the core with what he saw.

"Jared."

Open-mouthed, he stared at her, unable to tear his gaze away from her luscious body. He admired her from bottom to top and back again. She was wearing a white sheer baby doll, the edges laced, and slit in the middle, stopping at just below her breasts. She was wearing matching white panties with it.

If there was one thing Jared was sure about, it was definitely her obvious seduction plan. There was no way she was wearing that and not want him. Then again he, thought to himself, maybe she was teasing him? He mentally groaned at that thought. There was only so much he can take.

Alin watch his lustful expression as he remained motionless. She took the initiative and walked slowly towards him. When she reached him, Alin tiptoed and wrapped her arms around his neck.

Finally, Jared snapped out of his daze to find this wasn't a dream and she really did want him as much as he wanted, needed her. He could feel the familiar pain his raging erection bought him every time he was close to the woman he love, but this time with her dressed the way she was and the way she pressed herself against him, the cruel pain mixed with the pleasure of his hard cock made him growl in frustration

He bent his head down to kiss her, slowly at first, but as she continued to push herself against him, his kisses became urgent and he found himself backing her against the wall and continued ravishing her soft, full lips with his tongue. She unwounded her arms around his neck and tenderly stroked his cheek with the back of one hand, then moving down to undo the buttons of his shirt.

Suddenly Jared held onto her hands, stopping her from removing his shirt. Pulling away from the kiss, he panted heavily. He inhaled and then exhaled loudly, trying to control the cries from his body. This time was just like last time. He wanted to know that she wouldn't be leaving him like that day. It would break him to find her gone tomorrow. "Alin," He panted, "I n-need to know you're sure about this. I want you but it can't just be sex between us. I need you to tell-"

"Jared," She took his hand in hers and led him to her bedroom. He waited for her to continue but she didn't. She pushed him down gently so that he fell onto her bed. She padded across the room to switch on the light.

He watched as she walked back to him slowly, her breath quickening as she licked her dry lips. Alin sat down on his lap straddling him and she started to grind herself on him feeling his hardness straining against his clothing. She nuzzled his neck.

"Jared..." he heard her pant in his ear, "I love you."

He pulled back and used both his hand to cup her chin gently, he wanted so badly to see her but she had her eyes scrunched tightly closed. At that moment, he could feel moisture fill his eyes. He had waited for months and months for her to say those words back to him. She continued to rock back and forth on his hardness, his arms wrapped around her. He placed feathering kisses all over her face.

His heart swelled as the reality set in. The woman he loves was in his arms, loving him back in every sense. She pushed his unbuttoned shirt aside and tossed it onto the floor. Jared took off his remaining clothing, while his lips never left hers. He helped her undo her baby doll and then dropped to his knees Jared leaned forward and started to nip gently on her lower abdominal area and then her hipbone. It was soothing yet arousing, since he would bite gently and then sooth the marks by licking it with his tongue. Jared looked up to see her eyes closed and a smile on her face. He surprised her suddenly by using his teeth to drag down her white panties.

Now he saw her eyes snap open in shock, he smiled mischievously back at her and nudged her leg gently so that she could lift it up for him. He held her panties in one hand and he picked her up and dropped her onto the large bed. Jared could smell the strong sweet smell of her arousal. He got onto the bed with her and slipped a pillow underneath her propping her up. He trailed his hand down to her pussy and slid one finger up and down her swollen lips, "You're so wet for me." He whispered in awe.

Alin shifted uncomfortably and taking the sign, Jared pulled her closer to him and leaned forward to kiss her lips lovingly. He took his hard erection and traced it on her wetness, lubricating his hard cock. It had been so long, he wasn't sure if he could last long enough to pleasure her the way he wanted.

Slowly thrusting in, he held himself still as he slipped himself all the way inside her. They moaned in unison. Jared could feel the moist warmth wrapped around him. He pulled her up, so that she was straddling on top of him, and letting her set the rhythm. He placed a gentle kiss on her lips but as she pushed herself harder and harder into him, Jared slipped his tongue inside her lips, mating his tongue with hers.

Alin pulled away from the kiss, but she remained close to him, laying her forehead against his. She opened her eyes slowly and caught sight of him looking back at her.

"I love you too, Alin." He whispered, as tears formed in his eyes. Their breathing was erratic as his hands now placed on her backside, encouraging her movement on his hardness. He kissed her tenderly on her forehead, moving to both her cheeks before lighting brushing it on her lips again.

Alin couldn't control her breathing, as she felt the pinnacle of her climax start to build. Jared picked her up, with him still inside her, and turned her, so that he was looming on top of her once again.

He paused to look at her. Her hair spread out across the bed, the beads of sweat gathering on her forehead, and her flushed skin. He never wanted to lose her again.

Alin could see the glistening tears forming in his eyes and it made her heart ache to see him like this. She hated herself for feeling so much for him, she could recite a million reasons as to why being in love him was wrong, but with all his flaws she loved him for being him. It was simple but yet so complicated.

He stayed still inside her. Biting his lips hard to remain control, if he could last all night and pleasure her he would gladly hold back and make sure she was satisfied before sating his own lust.

"Jared...d-don't hold back." Alin moaned as she dug her fingernails into the skin on his hip. The pleasure coursing through her was building to an almost breaking point. It had been too long since she felt this way; her own fingers couldn't satisfy her appetite for the past few months.

"Jared come with me, come inside me."

He heard her whisper the words, he saw her lips form an O shape as she moaned in silent ecstasy and her eyes half closed. Watching her and feeling her convulse around him, Jared couldn't hold back and growled as he came inside her.

He collapsed on top of her, his faced buried in the crook of her neck. He continued to kiss the sensitive skin lazily. Finally after what felt like a few minutes, he lifted his head to look at her. Her lips curved up and he saw that sexy smile on her lips.

Feeling happy was an understatement. Jared couldn't describe how he felt right now. He pulled the sheets and covered their cooling bodies. He leaned over to kiss both of her cheeks. This caused her to open her eyes, which were starting to get heavy with sleep. "What's making you smile so seductively?" Jared teased.

Alin lifted the sheets and got on top of him. As she pressed herself against his growing erection, this time her lips curved up slowly. "This is."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Jared opened one eye, and groggily took in the unfamiliar surroundings. Then all of a sudden the events of last night came crashing down. He turned to the other side and was relieved when he saw Alin sleeping soundly curled up in a ball. He smiled dreamily, feeling comforted that she was still with him. There was a moment of panic when he thought she had left him like last time, but seeing her sleeping soundly after what happened last night, Jared really couldn't help but smile smugly.

Okay, whoa take it easy, she still hasn't forgiven you yet. He reminded himself, since there was still a long way to go. Unable to help himself he scooted closer to her and spooned himself against her. He kissed her gently on her shoulder and then trailing them upwards to the side of her face while he stroked the curve of her waist gently.

Feeling the strange sensation, Alin turned towards the source of disturbance, but as she was trapped by a warm body, she opened her eyes, heavy with sleep, and saw a big cheesy grin.

"Mornin"

She smiled in return but was about to turn away from him so she could go back to sleep, but he had other ideas. He kissed her hard on her lips, making her moan.

After successfully waking her up, he got out of the bed. Alin rubbed her eyes sleepily unaware of what he was doing. Jared went to his discarded pants and reached inside the pocket. Alin watched him curiously but he just grinned at her as he walked back to the bed. He missed seeing her when she woke up first thing in the morning. The way her dreamy eyes stared back at him, the way she clutched the covers protectively over herself and the way she smiled lazily at him.

"What's wrong?" Alin asked as Jared kneeled on the soft bed in front of her, his expression serious.

"I..." He reached from behind him and produced a velvet box, "Alin, I've been carrying this since the day I came here to see you. For the past few weeks, I've waited for the right moment to ask you, but it never seemed right. But it's not about the right moment; the most important thing is when you love someone." He opened the velvet box to reveal a beautiful ring. He took her hands and placed it in his, "I love you Alin, will you marry me?"

She looked down at the ring, unable to meet his intense gaze.

"Jared, I love you...but I'm not ready for this." She shook her head. "It's happening too fast and I want to enjoy what we have before any changes."

"Do you not think we can last if we get married?"

Scooting closer to him, Alin laid her head on his shoulder, "No, I'm just afraid." She looked up at him, "There's so much happening right now. I don't want to ruin this by rushing."

There was a moment of silence. Alin was worried she had hurt his feelings and before she could explain further, Jared whispered, "I understand. But know that this won't be the last time I propose." He kissed her forehead, "I'm determined to get that ring on your finger."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"Jared, Jared, are you happy with Charles Francis receiving eleven years imprisonment and a $2.5million fine due to fraud and breaking competition laws?"

"What about John Haltor receiving a fine of $9.5million, a three year probation, a restraining order and a criminal record. It was said that he was the main culprit do you think it was fair that he was not imprisoned? Since his offenses would likely carry a minimum of five years prison term. "

"Jared, here, here! We heard you're visiting Beijing again? Work or to see Alin? We heard you're engaged. When are you getting married?"

He had made a deal with Martin Haltor a few weeks back to keep his grandson out of jail under the condition that he would never work in the industry again and he would publicly apologize to Alin starting off with a few front covers on every newspaper in the country. It was punishment enough to be exposed in that way.

Besides, Jared knew under no circumstance would John be imprisoned. Martin Haltor was after all a powerful man with influential connections, forcing the outcome so that his grandson was imprisoned would have been difficult, with his team of lawyers likely to lodge appeals after appeals. It was an outcome he wasn't particularly happy with but he felt it was likely the best out of a bad situation. And the fact that his relationship with Alin was going so strong, there wasn't anything that could dampen his mood.

After having to fly back to New York to attend to business and also the hearing for the court cases, Jared had spent little time with Alin. So after the court case, he had to again attend a press conference, it was no point in answering any of their questions and further fuelling the rumour mills. He kept it simple by only answering regarding BankSafe.

That was two days ago. Now, Jared was sat in the airport lounge waiting for his flight. Jared closed his eyes momentarily. It was going to be a long flight especially if he was to be accompanied by seventy five kids...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Alin checked her phone religiously thorough out the day. Being concerned was an understatement. Jared hadn't called her or messaged her after the court case and that was nearly three days ago. The fear of repercussions from the Haltor family made her even more worried. The family was extremely powerful and Alin regretted not pushing harder for Jared to drop the idea of forcing John to public apologizes to her.




Not What It Seems Ch. 11



The idea was that Ryan, Jared, Hallie and the kids would visit her this week. However, Alex and Penny had to stay at home, because Hallie'ss wanted to spend time with their grandchildren and Jared couldn't travel with them due to the court case. She didn't mind, but three days without contact had her worried. Her two friends insisted that Jared was very busy and that he must have thought phoning her would have been pointless since he was seeing her very soon. Alin was not convinced.

At work she found it hard to concentrate, so when Ryan and Hallie came to pick her up, Alin had quizzed her friends throughout the car journey back to her apartment.

"Is there something you're not telling?" Alin asked.

"I can't believe you'd think we'd keep something from you-"

"I can't believe you just said that! You guys were still helping him out behind my back, and that is the definition of keeping things from me." Alin retorted playfully as they tried to fend innocence, "You two were spying on us on the balcony that day."

It was Hallie and Ryan's turn to be shocked. They looked at each other but Hallie quickly averted her gaze elsewhere.

Alin continued, "You were pulling the strings, not that I don't appreciate it now, but you guys always keep things from me where Jared is concerned. I'm just worried, please tell me what's going on or at least tell me if he's going to be okay."

"We don't know anything either. I think he's just tired. He did tell me he was going to arrive this week, so I'm sure he'd get here soon. Maybe just forgot to call."

"I guess you're right. I'm just worried because he's not normally like this. Besides with the public apology from John, I'm scared he may try and somehow get his revenge."

Ryan scoffed, "That guy is a pussy, and he won't do anything. I promise you." Ryan said as they exited the lift and Alin rummaged her bag for her keys.

"But it still doesn't explain why he hasn't-" Alin said but then stopped herself when she opened the door.

"Alin! Hallie!" she nearly tumbled over when all seventy plus children ran to her and Hallie.

She hugged them back but was shocked. She let the children drag her Ryan and Hallie inside. Alin quickly turned to her friends and said softly, "Did you guys arrange this?"

"Maybe."

But before she could ask any more they were surrounded by all the kids. "We miss you, Alin. Hallie came to see us last month, but you weren't there." One of the youngest children pouted. Alin crouched down and kissed her on the cheek.

"Oh honey I miss you too. I miss all of you," she cried at seeing them, she loved these kids and it brought a smile on her face to see them here. "How come you're here to see me?"

"Jared brought us here." Another girl said.

Alin turned back to her friends, "You knew about this?"

"We-" Ryan started but was cut off by a little boy when he shouted, "Jared!"

She followed the direction his arm was pointing at and her eyes widened when she saw Jared. She got up and ran to him, throwing her arms around him, "Where were you?! I was so worried, because I hadn't heard from you for three days and I thought maybe John and his grandfather wanted to hurt you, why did you not-"

He kissed her on the lips to stop her from talking. Alin melted in his kiss but was angry that he was trying to distract her. She broke from the kiss, "Jared, don't try to distract me-"

"I can't help it, I miss you too much."

"Did you bring them here?"

He nodded, "I want to see them happy and I want to see you happy. Hell, the kids deserve this and," trying hard to suppress a smile, Jared stepped back a little and kneeled down. Taking the sign, one of the young girls came forward to hand him the velvet box. "With the kids here to cheer me on, I don't think you can say 'no'. Alin, will you marry me?"

She knew he was joking. Jared was an incredibly generous and kind-hearted person as much as he hated showing his soft side. And he was right, she couldn't say no, not because of the kids but because she truly loved him and couldn't imagine not being with him. She smiled at him her eyes glistened with happy tears, "Yes, yes, yes, YES, YES!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

They married the next week.

Only eight guests were invited: Hallie, Ryan, Steven, Tao and his fiancée. It was lively none the less with seventy five kids also in attendance. Rather sadly, Jared couldn't get hold of his grandmother, which meant serious trouble for him, but he decided he'd deal with that when he came to it.

The day before the wedding, courtesy of Tao, a 'bachelor party' was arranged for Jared. The four guys bonded over gambling sessions at an exclusive casino. Jared was desperate to see Alin, but as traditions go, he wasn't allowed to see the bride-to-be the day before the wedding, so the bachelor party was more a driving force to stop him from seeing her.

Alin on the one hand had a great day with the girls and the kids after spending a fun day out at the amusement park. Tao's fiancée, May, had planned the day out and all three women were worn out by early evening.

The somewhat shotgun wedding, nearly threw Hallie's plans out the window, since she was in the process of designing Alin's dress after Jared told her weeks ago his plan to propose. No one, not even the two parties involved anticipated getting married a week after Jared proposed but both didn't want a lavish, show off, look at me look at me attention seeking event, which was an almost given amongst 'high society.' They loved each other, and didn't feel the need to prove to anyone. Besides most importantly, they didn't want to wait.

Therefore, Hallie had to rush to finish the dress. However, now looking at the simple, yet elegant design on her best friend, she was pretty proud of her work, and judging by how beautiful Alin looked it was definitely worth staying up till five in the morning nearly every day.

The white sandy beaches and the clear sea was what Jared had planned as a surprise for Alin. He knew she loved summer, so it was fitting for the wedding to take place on a beach.

Jared stared as Alin walked towards him, though the distance was short, he found it hard to breathe. She was simply beautiful and nothing in the world could trade it for the smile on her face. He felt his eyes tear up as she said 'I do', he wanted to cry when he slipped the ring on her finger. After nearly six long years, revenge, misunderstanding and complications in between, they were finally together.

"Jared, congrats man!" He saw Tao smile at him as he had his arms around a beautiful woman. "Honey, do you mind if I have a word with Jared?"

His fiancée left his side and joined Hallie and Alin as they took pictures on the beach with the kids.

"I have to thank you." Tao started, "If it wasn't for you I'd never get back with May. As lame as it sounds after discussing my mistakes with you that night, I called May up and begged for a second chance. I'm glad you and Alin are back together, fuck man I wanted to cry when I saw you and Alin then."

"I know you're lucky that a girl like May still gives you a chance. You deserve fuck all-"

"Fuck you!" Tao retorted as he laughed out loud, "Man, I don't see what Alin sees in you. You're at best, average looking."

Ryan and Steven joined in the insults, laughing at Jared's change and being 'pussy-whipped.' He took the insults; they could laugh all they wanted, since he was in too good a mood to take much notice.

From afar he watched as his wife played with the children. His wife. He smiled at that. Only she could wear a wedding dress on the beach and play with seventy five kids and not care if her makeup was smudged from all the running around or that she didn't look picture perfect, though obviously it was far from it.

It was early evening when the others decided to give the newlyweds some space and, taking the kids with them went to the villa Jared had hired out for all the guests to stay in.

"My wife, my wife, MY wife." Jared said softly as she gazed up at him.

He sat on the white sand with her in his lap and her head on his shoulder. They were both watching the sunset and listening to the soothing sound of the waves crashing against each other.

"Remember when Hallie said if we had children they would be perfect?"

Alin smiled up at him, and Jared smiled back warmly noting how pretty and how much he loved it when she was happy. The wedding dress she wore was slightly creased and her hair was starting to loosen, but it strangely made her look even more alluring.

He traced his finger lightly across her lips, "Don't you think we should practice making those perfect babies?"

She laughed softly, lifting her head from his shoulder and with raised brows she said, "Is sex really all you think about?"

"With what we were doing for the past week, how can you insult it by calling it sex?!" He said pretending to sound hurt. "It's MAKING LOVE," He corrected, flashing a mischievous grin.

She kissed him on his lips, "Well, is making love all you think about?"

He returned the kiss, slowly laying her down as the sun settled down, the setting unbelievably romantic.

"Yes, but just with you, Mrs Valentine."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Ryan walked across the landing and considered what he was going to say. The last few weeks hadn't been easy on him. With his best friend's wedding, he had temporarily put things on hold, but now with everything over, today he needed an answer.

Hallie packed her bags ready to leave for tomorrow. She had changed her flight to leave a day earlier. She couldn't stay here. With Alin and Jared honeymooning and her having to leave behind her young child and baby back in New York, Hallie had never felt more home sick. She couldn't wait to go back home.

Just when Hallie finished packing, Ryan walked in without knocking.

"What are you doing in my room?" Hallie gasped.

"Hallie, we need to talk."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Okay, yes I ended this on a somewhat cliff hanger, but I didn't do this intentionally. I think by ending it like this, it could give me a basis for Hallie's story. Anyway, please don't forget to check my bio page for the information on the charity website. Thank you for your support!