I RAISED my eyes to look at him. I also frowned and visited his face to see if he's telling the truth or it just joking.
"You're kidding right?" I started to laugh and gasp heavily.
"No, I'm not," he said in his serious voice. His words splinter inside me.
"No Rex, you can't." I shook my head.
"You'll do it because that's what I ordered." His voice is now serious and strong.
The redness seemed to rise to both my cheeks. I could sense the pressure in the atmosphere between us and I could feel the blazing fire on my two ears when I turned to him.
"This is ridiculous. You know I have a compromise work for Nicholas and Cindy. You can't be serious about it Rex!" I couldn’t help but raise my voice slightly.
"I don't remember agreeing with your decisions." His voice wearing a knife, just like how he looks at me now.
"Is that all? Or because there's another reason?" I couldn't help but ask him that.
"We could talk about this matter at some other time, but from now on, you'll stay here for a while." He declares, cunning enough to fool me.
I kept looking at him. I tried to paint the picture of how I feel, but I couldn’t find the right color to make it seem real. Because no matter what I do I know he won't see it.
"You're impossible." I tried to speak properly but my voice gets brittle.
I felt him grab my hand, but I could feel nothing but anger and resentment.
"Just for several months, Cherry. You won't be here for long. After that, you're free to go. You can do whatever you want. I wouldn't ask for more. Just accept my last request. " He gripped my hand even tighter.
I had to bite my lip to keep from crying out. The more I suppressed the more I seemed to feel the pain.
"Please..." he softly said. I've been pushing back against the pain, and yet it returns me weaker.
And it's hurt that I don't have a choice. But, today I make a new choice even if it hurts. They say that the bravest are the ones who face the war and do not give up. But what is more painful? The fight without certainty or the beat without a hold?
Are you sure, you want to move the photoshoot to Thailand? ”Nicholas asking, then giving me a questionable look before he pounded his fist hand at the table.
I know he was disappointed in me because of my sudden setback. Even though I had already signed a contract with him. If I had a choice I wouldn't deny this thing but I'm already said yes to Rexon and this is the only way left for me to get rid of the pressure he gives on me.
"If possible, let's prioritize my photoshoot in San Bartolome and San Felipe," I utterly said as I fixed down my eyes on the floor.
Silence.
I only heard a deep sigh coming from him as I can feel the sweat drench my skin and throbbing my own eyes.
"Okay, if that's what you want, I'm not questioning you." his voice was warm and tender.
I didn't expect him to react that way, I thought he would get angry and scold me because I had already compromised my scheduled photoshoot abroad. But he just remained calm.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Galvez. I don't know how to make it up to you after this," I emotionally said.
"Dinner date would be enough," he quickly said and show off her snow fresh teeth after.
I breathe sharply. The more I couldn't breathe properly at his answer. There are many things that I would like to say, but I don't know how to start. Especially how did one agree to his offer.
He swiveled in his seat and bringing his fountain pen to his lips. I knew he was waiting for my answer so I faced him with courage.
"Okay, let's have dinner tonight." I agree.
His lips slightly twitched and he lifted his back to his chair.
"Alright then, I'll pick you up at seven," he finally said before the sweet smile faded. I could do nothing but nod at him. I don't want him to think that I'm taking advantage of his kindness but this is the only way I can make up for everything.
***
Less than seven o'clock I was almost ready. I chose to wear a black full skirt dress that I dyed with open-toe heels before he got to my house and pick me.
I glance at him while we riding the car. Even earlier I was checking his shape, wearing a gray long sleeve shirt that simply rolled up to his elbow. Can't deny that whatever else he wears will probably suit him.
"Is there a problem?" I was startled to sit up when I heard the baritone of his voice again.
"Oh, nothing..." I nervously muttered and buried my back in the chair.
"Why? Did you find me sexy?" he teased.
I turned around in front of him with parted lips but I also quickly picked it up because of the smile he saw on me.
"Just kidding," then he burst out laughing and shook his head lightly.
I was even more dumbfounded by his reaction. Damn! I quickly cast a spell before I could find anything to say.
"Y-you look good." I utter, I quickly adjusted my seat so that he wouldn't make me feel uncomfortable with what I said.
"Really?" I heard him chuckled.
I was even more uncomfortable when I sat down. I keep reminding myself that I have to work so hard for this matter and his attitude needed some serious work to understand.
"Mr. Galvez–" I knew he wanted to see me like this. I don't know how to start talking about it.
"Nicholas. Just call me Nicholas." he Insisted.
Since there was no answer from me I heard him smirk before shaking his head.
I pouted my lips and decided to glance at the window when he steered his car carefully into the parking space.
"I'm sure you'll gonna love this place." he proudly says, while looking up at the Restau-bar.
I glanced at the Restaurant.
"You've been there before?" he asked which made me look.
I remember this place. This is where Rexon used to send me for no reason, this is also where I was almost doomed by drunk customers who forced me to dance.
"H-no, I just came here," I stated.