As of Yet Untitled
Chapter Eight
By: Karisma
Rated: PG-13
Genre: Alt, Romance
www.geocities.com/karismafanfic
Karisma456@hotmail.com
December 2000
Standard Disclaimers Apply

      I was up and ready a bit before sevenand quite anxious/nervous. I was 
going to workwith Darienas a secretary. I reminded myself constantly that 
it was only temporary, that I would soon be equal to Dariens caliber, but 
it didnt change the fact that now at the present moment, I was a few short 
minutes away from being a personal assistant to a man who had forced me to 
eat dog food years back.
     Deciding Darien seemed to be an extremely punctual man, I figured I had 
a few minutes before I should be out on my porch waiting for him. I ran to 
the bathroom, an awkward feat in my navy pumps, and quickly smoothed over 
the white blouse under my smart navy blazer and matching skirt. My hair was 
pulled away from my face by two silver clips and I eyed it critically before 
narrowing my eyes at my reflection and repeating three times I was not so 
cautious about my appearance because of Darien Sandborn. Then, pushing all 
thoughts of narcissism out of my mind, I brusquely walked out the front 
door, grabbing my brief case on the way.
     I barely had to wait a second outside, Darien pulled into our driveway 
within seconds and I took a deep breath before walking out to open the 
passenger door and slid in.
     Morning, I greeted cheerfully.
    He gave me a nod and I rolled my eyes at his lack of verboseness. He 
turned his upper body slightly to check the street behind him and his eyes 
rested on me for a long moment. After raking his eyes over my body and 
making sure every hair on my head felt quite aware of his presence and 
attention, he finally pulled out of my driveway and made his way to FS 
Enterprises.
    When I entered the top floor of the tall building, my first impression 
was one of admiration at the way Darien and my father had managed to run 
this business. It was neat and by the looks of the employees in their 
cubicles, it was incredibly efficient. I walked with Darien straight ahead 
to was I assumed was his office. I smiled at the people who stared at me 
curiously and was relieved when they did the same. Darien stepped into his 
office right behind me and I could feel him watching my reaction intently. 
It was impressive to say the least. After viewing his apartment, I should 
have been used to his good taste, but the refined touches in his office 
surprised me yet again.
     A large desk of dark wood stood on one side of the large room while a 
bookshelves of the same wood were lined up against the wall, packed with 
books of which subject I had no clue. Pictures and paintings that seemed to 
have no personal connection lined the back white walls. The wall facing the 
working people was completely glass though the shades were pulled down at 
the moment. I turned to face her employer for the next week and smiled 
nervously.
     What do you want me to do?
      I suppose the best thing for you to do right now is get acquainted 
with our clients, so browse through files and answer phones. Theres a 
meeting at about one that you are most welcome to sit in on. He sat down 
and commenced sorting through large piles of work, which I took as a hint to 
leave him be. Stepping quietly out, I ran my fingers lightly over my new 
desk and relished the feeling of being at work.
     After a moment, I figured out where the clients files were. I pulled 
out a few of them and pored over them, soon immersed. When the phone rang an 
hour later, I jumped at the sudden intrusion.  After locating the headphones 
and pushing the right buttons, I had managed to get myself situated.
     FS Enterprises, Darien Sandborns desk. How may I help you? The 
response came automatically and I was miffed to hear and indignant blowing 
out of someones breath and then the clear cut of the dial tone. I waiting 
for a moment, puzzled before hanging up myself and resuming the task of 
informing myself until one oclock rolled around.
      Time flew by and before I knew it, Darien stuck his head out of his 
door for the first time that day( I could swear the man did not eat) and I 
followed him to another, larger room for the meeting. Needless to say, I was 
quite nervous as I smoothed out my outfit and raced through all the 
impressions the clients and workers would have of me.
     Introductions were made and soon we were sitting down discussing all 
the possibilities for a new client. It was a brain storm session as the 
clients were seeing how we could work to help them before the decided to 
give us their business.
     The two CEOs of TecCorp wanted to advertise their new microchip that 
would fit into any camera and remove red eye automatically, along with 
giving one the option to add messages and labels at the bottom of the 
picture. The main target audience was usually adults, but FS was unsure how 
to broach any ideas for commercials.
    I finally decided to speak up, You could try a different audience.
    Heads turned to look at me, the young girl who had remained silent the 
entire meeting.
    Pardon? One of the owners, a kindly looking man with gray hair and a 
welcoming laugh, asked politely.
    Well, your main concern has been with adults because they mainly buy 
such things to take pictures of their children, but what about teenagers or 
college students? They love taking pictures of friends and trips, why not 
target them? I finished, all traces of nervousness gone. It was a good 
idea, I knew it was.
     The owners were silent for a moment as if pondering the novelty of the 
idea. I didnt dare look at Darien, fearing one look at the man would send 
my entire power image crumbling.
     Young lady, I do believe you have something. Think of an ad and get 
back to us within the week and you have yourselves a deal, the kind man, 
Mr. Siel, answered with a large grin. Relief and joy swept through my tight 
body as I relaxed in my chair.
     I finally snuck a peak at Darien, but he was busy shaking hands with 
the CEOs, a polite, but reserved smile on his handsome face.
     The room finally cleared out a few people congratulated me on their way 
out. I was touched and flattered and a bit proud as I smiled and faced 
Darien when we were finally alone. Tension and anticipation washed over me 
once again as I waited for his response. And as much as it killed me, I knew 
I wanted his approval. There was no explaining it, it was just a need to see 
Darien Sandborn smile, give me a pat on the back, and tell me once and for 
all, I was good at what I did.
     Do you have any ideas on the ad? His face remained still and my heart 
plummeted.
     Youre giving me the client? I asked, surprise and excitement 
building inside me. He trusted me enough to hand over a potentially bit 
client.
      He sent me a look. Unless you dont think you can handle it?
      What? No, I mean I can. I will. I blushed at my stuttering and grew 
even redder when I realized he was smiling down at me.  I should get back 
to work. And before he could respond, I practically ran out of the meeting 
room and back to my desk, making sure I was looking for something intently 
in the filing cabinet when he came back to his office so I wouldnt have to 
face him.
     The end of the day came quickly and only then did I remember where I 
was going and with whom.  I was dire need of checking out a few apartments, 
but my ride to work had been Darien, and he wanted to go back to his 
apartment to work on the albumso he said. I was more than perfectly sure 
Darien could seduce any number of women and he probably had. All in the 
apartment that we had kissed in. That thought was less than pleasant, 
especially since it brought me back to thoughts of his wife. Had they shared 
passionate embraces on the same stop Darien and I had?
     Well, it made no difference because I didnt care. I wasnt about to 
get in a relationship with Darien or want one. Not only was I not attracted 
to him in that wayokay that was a lie. But even though there is attraction, 
there was no way we could act on it. Not only was I sure Darien had no want 
for a serious relationship (duh), I knew if we had a brief liaison, our 
families would never be the same. Unless we didnt tell them
      I ordered my thoughts to stop there as I grabbed me briefcase and 
walked over to the elevators, hoping to be as discreet as possible. My plans 
were obviously foiled as I heard someone come up behind me. I turned around 
to see Darien peering down at me with a frown marring his face.
     Where do you think youre going? The way he said it, with such 
disdain, made me feel as if I was a child, being reprimanded for getting 
caught with my hand in the cookie jar. I narrowed my eyes and answered him.
     Leaving. Im finished with the files and I dont have any more work. 
Unless there is something you want me to do?
     His frown didnt disappear and I found myself wondering how he didnt 
have deep wrinkles and lines on his face already if that was all he did.  I 
thought we agreed we would go back to my apartment and work on the album.
      No, you agreed. I disagreed, but thats all right because you never 
listen to me anyway. You never have! I lost my temper and exploded at him, 
expostulating with my hands as I tend to do when I get angry.
      He took a step back, shocked slightly. I stopped, a feeling of 
satisfaction washing over me.
     You think I never listen to you? His voice was low and excruciatingly 
slow.
      Yes! And whats more you talk like that all the time! I resisted the 
urge to stamp my foot to show him how impossible he was being. But that 
wouldnt help my case any.
     How do I talk to you? his tone was puzzled and bewildered. He stepped 
into the elevator I hadnt seen open and I followed him, if only to continue 
my confrontation.
     Like Im five years old and in need of a good scolding, I bit out, 
imploring him to understand. All anger was out of my voice, only a need to 
make him know where I was coming from.
     You think I treat you like a child and dont listen to you, he 
paraphrased and paused for a moment, thinking.
      I felt the need to say something and I blurted out the other thing 
that was a somewhat bother with me. Instead of listening, you just kiss me 
all the time. I sucked in my breath and what I had just uttered and looked 
away, fascinated with the wall of lighted buttons.
     I didnt see Darien look over at me with that intense gaze of him, nor 
did I see his arm move out quickly to pull the emergency button until it was 
too late. The elevator jilted to an immediate stop.
     What I started.
      Do you think I kiss you like a child, Serena? His deep voice 
beckoned me to turn away from the red button and face him.
      Well, no, but I stuttered, appalled not only by his boldness, but 
the entire situation of it all.
      I do listen to you, Serena, he whispered huskily, bringing his face 
to mine, evidently meaning to kiss me yet again.
     The moment our lips were about to meet, I pushed him away angrily and 
the surprise on his face gave me more pleasure than I thought it would. You 
just dont think I have anything worth talking about, is that it?
     Where did you come up with a half-baked idea like that? Dariens tone 
turned incredulous as he ran a hand through his dark hair in frustration.
      My mouth fell open in shock and, as much as I hated to admit it, hurt. 
The insult only succeeding in making me even more certain of my point. I 
clenched my jaw and slammed the red button again, letting the elevator start 
again, and in less then a second, stop. The doors opened and I stomped out 
into the dark, underground parking lot with no intention of talking to 
Darien again. Let him figure out the blasted album by himself.
      Serena, I heard him call me back, his tone stern and full of 
reproach.
      I was about to ignore him, but the desire was too strong. I swung 
around on the gray cement. There you go again, scolding me like always. Do 
I look five, Darien?
      His eyes roamed over my figure and I grew indignant, pushing the 
flattered part of me out of the way. No, you certainly dont. He answered 
appreciatively.
     Is that all you can think about? I said scathingly, my voice full of 
disgust.
      Yes, he deadpanned and I gave an angry huff and commenced walking 
again. Wait, Serena. He jogged to meet up with me and then walked, his 
long stride easily matching my short, quick one.  Look, I dont want you 
thinking I mean to patronize you. I Before he could finish I swiftly 
reached up and pressed my lips to his in a fierce, albeit brief, kiss. When 
I let go, he was visibly breathless.
     There, how do you like being interrupted every time you want to get a 
point across? I asked.
     Darien traced his lips, a smile forming on them. Dont mind too much, 
especially when an interruption is like that. Care to demonstrate again?
      I glared at him and shook my head, turning to walk away. He sighed and 
caught my arm, spinning me back to face him.
     I do listen to you, I know its hard to believe, but trust me, I do. 
He looked at me disbelieving face and sighed again. And as for treating you 
like a child, Im sorry. I had no intention of doing so, and I promise to 
try and stop from this point on. He held up his hand and smirked. Scouts 
honor.
      I sighed in defeat and nodded.
      My car is in the other direction, he pacified my astonished face 
with a hand. How about we look at your apartments and then Ill treat you 
to dinner. After which, well go and work on the album. How does that 
sound?
      I cocked my head and smiled slowly. So he had been paying attention to 
me yesterday evening. So you do listen.
     I told you. He led me to his car and we got in peaceably, finally at 
good termsthat is, until he decided to pull his next move.

****

     Two hours later, we entered Dariens penthouse, carrying white cartons 
of Chinese takeout and laughing about the insane landlady we had met at one 
of the apartments.
     I thought I would pee in my pants when she asked you if you were gay, 
I burst out in laughter, imagining the picture of the elderly, old-fashioned 
woman in an apron inquiring point-blank about Dariens sexuality.
     Hey, youre the one she thought was bisexual, Darien shot back, 
placing his three cartons on the coffee table, where all the album stuff 
lay, exactly where we had left it when we decided to focus on each other a 
bit more. That led my gaze to the couch and I swallowed. Pushing the 
thoughts out of my mind, I vowed to enjoy the evening as much as I had the 
past two hours. I had seen a much different side of Darien, one that was 
warm and welcoming. His defenses were not completely down, but this was the 
closest I had seen of the fun-loving guy I had grown up with in my entire 
stay back here. We gathered plates and utensils silently, before relaxing on 
the couch, facing each other and eating with chopsticks.
     I kicked off my heels and tucked my legs under me, feeling quite 
comfortable. I picked out a piece of chicken and was about to bring it to my 
lips when Darien started talking.
     So are you?
     Am I what? I chewed the large piece of meat and looked over at his 
serious face.
     Bisexual.
     I stopped immediately and stared at him in shock. A grin broke on his 
face and he chuckled. My eyes widened and I let out a growl and threw a 
package of hot sauce at him.  He dodged it easily and continued laughing. I 
began to do so as well and we sat together as the laughter died down. As we 
ate, we sorted through some more pictures and figured out the order of it 
all.
     Finally, after the food was gone and we had finished the album, we 
opened the fortune cookies.
     Romance and passion await you, Darien read, his voice full of humor 
and quiet disdain.  Your turn. He looked over at me from his lethargic 
position on the couch. He had moved to the other end, laying his head down 
on the armrest. I had changed into a pair of sweatpants and a shirt I had 
borrowed from Darien after almost spilling chow mein on my suit. My head was 
also laying comfortably on the other armrest, our feet barely touching were 
the curve of the L-shaped couch met.
     I opened mine and my eyes widened. I was silent for a moment until 
Dariens nudge with his foot galvanized me into action. Romance and passion 
await you, I read clearly, uncertain of his reaction.
     Let me see that, he sat up, as did I, and took the slip from my hand. 
So it says, he affirmed and looked over at me. I shifted in my 
cross-legged position and squirmed under his gaze. He continued huskily, so 
shall it be done.  I sucked in my breath at the implication of what he had 
just said and before I knew it, Dariens lips were on mine, softly, this 
time, and sweet. He tenderly tucked a strand of hair from my face after he 
broke the kiss and my breath remained uneven. When he moved in closer for 
another kiss, I scooted out of the way and grabbed my clothes from a chair 
as well as my shoes.
      I should get going, I said awkwardly. Feeling quite nervous and 
fumbling around with my belongings, I finally made my way to the exit of 
Dariens lavish home. I hadnt heard him behind me, I was too occupied with 
my thoughts and how I was going to deal with seeing him everyday in such 
close contact without throwing myself at himor maybe even vice versa.
     I reached out to twist the doorknob as I juggled the possessions in my 
arms and had barely gotten one foot out of the door before Darien kicked it 
shut.
     Stay, he said, his voice low and my heart plummeted and soared all at 
the same time. He wanted me to stay with him, that was flattering. He was 
married and was more than willing to cheatnot so flattering.
     I smiled sadly and shook my head. Married men shouldnt have female 
companions overnight. I slipped out the door before I could hear his reply. 
Half hoping he would come after me and half hoping he would leave me be, I 
hailed a cab and rode back home in pensive silence.

****

     The next day, I rode myself to work, happy that Darien hadnt just 
dropped by my house and demanded he give me a ride. Jumpy at the prospect of 
seeing him again after I had let on that I knew about his marital status, I 
smoothed over my clothes and rode the elevator alone, anxious of what the 
day would bring.  I wasnt sure if I should ignore what had happened last 
night and what I had confronted him with, or if I should urge him to open up 
and talk about his disaster relationship with Melissa. I finally decided on 
the former, Darien did not seem like the type of man to let the flood gates 
open wide and pour out his soul. Quite the opposite, actually.
     If he wanted to talk about it, he would take initiative. That was his 
style. Until then, I would remain his secretary and make my idea for TecCorp 
so perfect, even Darien would have to buckle down and admit I did a darn 
good job.
     I exited the elevator and made a bee-line for my desk, reminding myself 
after this sale, I would not be working for Darien. As I sat down, I was 
painfully obvious that Darien was in his office, only a few meters away, 
either conducting business or rehashing what I blurted out to him last 
night. I gathered my files and sat at my desk, reviewing the papers and 
trying to brainstorm some ideas to sell the chip. After a few minutes, I had 
cornered down one area I would target and was feeling quite proud of myself 
when Darien called me.
     Serena, could you come in here for a moment? It was not a question 
and both of us knew it. I nodded and rose from my chair to follow him.
     Yes? I asked tentatively, afraid to confront the issue.
    Are you finished with the dishsoap file?
     I nearly dropped from surprise. This was not what I had imagined when I 
envisioned the scene. I figured Darien would get directly to how I knew so 
much about his marital status.  But it did make sense, Darien seemed like 
the type to show he did not care by avoiding the issue completely.
     What? I asked, still dumbfounded.
     The dishsoap clients file? Are you done with it because I would like 
to review it.
     Oh, yeah. Sure. I bobbed my head ridiculously. Ill get it for you. 
I quickly grabbed the file from the cabinet and rushed back to his office. I 
dropped the file on his desk.
     Thank you, he said absently, not even raising his head from the 
paperwork in front of him.
     Is that it? I asked cautiously, knowing I should let it go and count 
my blessings. But it angered me, in a way I did not want to admit, that he 
had dismissed our discussion, and my reaction, so carelessly.
     He lifted a dark brow sardonically. Is there anything further to 
discuss?  He smiled a smile that told mehe knew darn well what there was 
left, he was just playing with me.
     I stiffened, narrowing my eyes. No, I suppose not. Turning cleanly on 
my heel, I exited his office, determined that last night was the last time I 
let myself get anywhere romantically with the womanizer, Darien Sandborn.

****

     Days later found me standing in front of a table of men and women, in a 
smart pantsuit, pitching my campaign to TecCorp. I was almost done with my 
presentation and had managed an excellent job of not looking at Darien 
throughout the entire thing, although I could feel Dariens eyes burning 
into me at every motion I made.      And finally, we will have an elderly, 
yet distinguished gentleman in a suit next to a clear stool with nothing on 
it. TecCorp Microchipits the biggest thing, youve never seen.  I 
tapped her index finger on the stool next to her which held the almost 
invisible chip. I was then silent, watching the reactions playing on the 
clients faces. I had covered all the bases in the short ad, making sure to 
provide information about how easy it was to use, how it would be a valuable 
asset to have around the house, and especially how small it was and easy to 
insert into any camera.
     Ms. Fields, a voice boomed and I turned to smile at Mr. Siel. I have 
to say my partner had some doubts about this whole targeting a fresher 
audience thing, but I think we both know you have proved him wrong.
     My face broke into a real grin instead of the polite smile I had been 
wearing.  Thank you, sir.
     No, thank you, Ms. Fields. I had a twenty dollar bet riding on you. 
He winked at her and smiled his jovial smile.
     I continued to grin. I had gotten a client! There was no way I would be 
expected to continue as Dariens secretary now. No, now I would be his 
equal. We would sort through problems and clients together. Together. I 
suddenly realized that my new position would mean even more close contact 
and more hours alone with Darien. The thought should have set alarm bells 
off in my head. Instead, it gave me a sudden feeling of excitement. 
Shrugging it off, and focusing on the topic at hand, I shook a plethora of 
hands and delivered an abundance of smiles along with thank yous.
     When do you want to leave tonight? I addressed Darien politely; 
referring to the trip we would be making the traditional trip to the country 
house, only this time for the long Thanksgiving weekend. Our families were 
already down there and insisted we come tonight to greet Andrew and Rita 
from their honeymoon. The plan was to stop by apartment and pick up my 
already packed bag and then head off to the long ride to the familiar, 
memory filled house.
     Five is fine with me, Darien responded simply, settling down at his 
desk and shuffling through papers, terminating, once again, whatever 
conversation we may have been having.
     Annoyed by his rudeness and dismissal, I blew out my breath in a 
frustrated sigh and walked out of the room. Not so much as one brief 
congratulations, Serena.
     I sat down at the desk, fully aware that this was the last time I would 
be sitting there, and sorted out a few messy, loose papers.  Not long after, 
a tall woman with a sort of cold beauty that one associated with the phrase 
Ice Princess walked in and demanded to speak to Darien.
     If you could sit down one moment, Ill see if he is free at the 
moment.  I said as sweetly as I could, considering the haughtiness this 
woman radiated. The woman was gorgeous, in all senses of the word, with her 
flaming auburn hair swept up in an elegant manner and her emerald eyes 
matching the tailored suit she wore.
     She gave an indignant sniff, which I could swear I had heard before, 
and breezed by me into Dariens office, as if I had not said one word.  Oh, 
well, she was Dariens problem now. I got back to pondering where I had 
heard the womans voice before. After a moment, it hit me.  The hang-up call 
a few days back! She was the woman. But why had she not asked to speak with 
Darien?
     I shrugged and gave up on the puzzle, sorting through some papers, 
fruitlessly searching for the last page to a report. I sighed when I 
realized I probably lost it, along with some others that had no doubt 
spilled into a recycle bin of some sort. Getting up, I walked to Dariens 
door to knock lightly. I heard voices arguing, one high, strained tone and 
Dariens hard, even one. It was obvious the woman was losing in the quarrel. 
But who was she? When no one responded to my knock, I peeked in and saw them 
near the bookcases, the woman expostulating and looking furious and pouty 
all at the same time.
     I quickly slipped in, neither of them noticed, and sat down at Dariens 
desk, pulling up the correct files easily. Finally, Darien noticed me. He 
looked over in my direction with a puzzled look and I gestured for him to 
continue, that I would only be one minute. Unfortunately, he strode over to 
me, ceasing the conversation with the enraged female, who, needless to say, 
did not take my presence lightly.
     Darien, she whimpered in a needy voice. One that blatantly said she 
commanded attention, and got it, from all males.
     Melissa, I said we would continue this later. Darien said curtly, 
coming up behind me and looking directly over my head to see what I was 
working on. I was too busy reeling over the womans name, Melissa, to blush 
at his proximity. This was Dariens wife? She was the one Darien had picked 
and maybe fallen for? If that was Dariens taste, what was I doing in the 
picture? But, then again, was I even in the picture?
    Better yet, there is nothing to continue, I said all I was going to say 
earlier.  He continued and then turned to me again.
     Darien, this isnt over. We arent over. Melissa tried again and shot 
her eyes over to me. Does she have to be here? This is somewhat personal.
     He smoothly replied, Serena is here on a business matter and whether 
or not the matter is personal, it is over.  His eyes swept to the door and 
it was clear what his intentions for his ex-wife were.
     A secretary is more important than me? I dont think so, darling. 
Melissa delicately snorted and I felt my temper shot up.
     Now what just a-- I fully intended to stand up and give this 
womanwife, or no wifea piece of my mind, when Dariens warm hand on my 
shoulder stilted my movements.
     Where are my manners, Darien interrupted, in a voice that seemed to 
be made of silk. Melissa, this is Serena Fields.
      I stood up this time, albeit slowly and more graciously. I figured 
this woman would figure out who I was soon enough, might as well be pleasant 
all the while.  I extended my hand only to have it flicked upon by 
uninterested hands and obviously dismissed. I saw Dariens eyes flare up 
with tempered anger and then settle down back to passiveness.
     My partner, he finished his introduction icily, and we both watched 
Melissas eyes widen with shock. Shes the F in FS Enterprises.
     I was slightly surprised, and pleased, at the protective tone in his 
low voice. I cleared my throat. Ill be done here in a minute and then Ill 
let you finish up in here. She turned to Darien, clearly speaking to him 
only now. Just tell me when youre done, Ill wait for you outside.
     Melissas arched eyebrows were raised to her hairline by the time I was 
through speaking with Darien and it gave me a warm feeling to know she was 
jealous and angry at the fact the Darien and I were obviously leaving 
together.
     Theres no need to wait. Were done. He said tersely. Lets go.
     I nodded, confused, and turned to flick off the computer, smiling at 
the shriek of indignation coming from Melissa.
     Darien, Im not leaving until you agree to speak with me further.
     Youre welcome to stay here. The night man will be more than happy to 
play a round of Rummy with you. He replied with fake warmth.
     Melissa opened her mouth and gaped like a fish. I smothered a chuckle 
at Dariens comment and his wifes expression. Better yet, she said 
smoothly. How about I go with you two?
     Darien stiffened. I dont think thats a good idea.
    Why? Where are you going?
    Up to my familys country house. Were getting together for 
Thanksgiving. His tone made it perfectly clear she wasnt the least bit 
invited.
    Yet Melissa pressed. Oh, then shes family? Referring to me as if I 
wasnt in the room, she looked relieved to believe I wasnt competition, but 
a cousin of some sort.
     No, shes not. Darien didnt offer any information and once again 
Melissa gazed at him with a startled expression.
     Then--?
    Serenas family and mine have been coming together for holidays for as 
long as we both can remember, isnt that right, Serena?
     I was grateful to be acknowledged and gave a slight nod which was 
reciprocated with a look that could have frozen lava, courtesy dragon lady 
herself.
     Suddenly, Melissa decided to try a different approach, one that shocked 
me and amused Darien.  But, darling, she started, her lips pouting to and 
extraordinary size and her voice dripped with honey. if I dont see you all 
of this long weekend, then when will we she seductively trailed her finger 
down his tie, taking no heed that there was an embarrassed third party in 
the roomme--, talk. She said the last word with an arched brow, and her 
meaning was beyond clear.
     Darien raised his eyebrows at her suggestion and carefully detangled 
himself form her, careful to keep his tie straight. Melissa, he sighed. 
Ill come back to talk to you briefly tomorrow and thats it. Here in the 
morning. After that, everything is final. Understood?
     Melissa nodded gleefully and shot me a victorious look, as if she had 
won. I decided enough was enough. I walked out of the room and gathered my 
things at my desk. My mind was still reeling from the fact that Darien, an 
attractive and seemingly intelligent man, could be stupid enough to 
marryher.  At least he seemed to have enough sense to stay away from her 
now.
    Almost immediately after I left the office, Melissa strode by, barely 
stopping to give one last triumphant look. Soon after, Darien came with his 
blazer draped over his arm and his briefcase in the other hand.
     Ready? He asked, his voice suddenly tired.
     I nodded and felt the need to lighten the mood. Not much of a people 
person, is she?
     He smiled warily, Melissa? Oh, when its the right people she can 
be.
     Guess I dont bring out the best in her, I mused, not particularly 
caring.
     He chuckled lightly. Shes just.
     Misunderstood? I supplied wryly.
     That won a grin. I was going to go for different, but 
misunderstood works for me.
     It then hit me that Darien knew I knew he was married, but not to whom. 
For all he knew, I may have thought Melissa to be a disgruntled 
ex-girlfriend or someone. I decided not to let him know I knew the full 
truth.
     We stopped by my new apartment and I was relieved to find out that 
Darien didnt make a move to come in with me. The place was certainly nice, 
but I was nowhere near done packing or decorating. I quickly ran to get my 
suitcase and we were off into the night to the country house.

****

     When we arrived, we greeted Rita and Andrew and presented them with the 
album, which they loved, before going to bed, exhausted by the long day and 
ride.
    The next day, I woke up and opened my suitcase, only to find I had left 
the work Darien had asked me to bring over the weekend. Slapping my hand to 
my head, I ran downstairs to see if I could catch Darien before he left for 
the office. He was rinsing a mug of coffee and looked startled to see me. He 
raised a brow at my appearance and my labored breathing from the dash I made 
downstairs. I pushed my hair back from my face and cleared my throat.
     Good, I caught you. I forgot the work you asked me to bring. I smiled 
sheepishly.
    He nodded, Ill pick it up.
     I wished it were as simple as that. Uhyou see, its not exactly ready 
and waiting for you to pick up. It is somewhatscattered at my desk, and I 
trailed off, hoping he would see my point about not being as neat as he.
     He furrowed his brow, as if trying to understand what I was getting at. 
Some of the files are at my place and some are at work. Im not exactly the 
neatest person in the world. I blurted out and blushed.
     I see. Was all he said.  Get ready in fifteen minutes.
     I grinned and dashed up back to my room.

****

     When we reached the office, I was more than happy to get out of the 
silent car, though we did banter over music during the trip. Though I wasnt 
looking forward to another confrontation with Melissa, I assumed I could be 
in and out quickly. We had already stopped at my place, again, for half of 
the documents, and as Darien parked, I anxiously waited for this to be over 
so we could head back to the country house.
     We rode the elevator up in silence and I was not surprised to see 
Melissa waiting impatiently for Darien in his office. Fortunately, she had 
not seen me as of yet.  I busied myself gathering miscellaneous papers and 
compiling them into some order and sense. I vowed to become more organized, 
as I grew frustrated with some missing papers, it then struck me I had never 
printed out the documents I lost yesterday. I looked at Dariens closed door 
with regret. I could not very well barge in there again, nor did I wish to. 
Melissas death looks were not particularly inviting in the Red Zone, which 
had quickly become Dariens office.
     Without the noise of rustling papers, I suddenly realized how loud the 
conversation, or rather, argument was. I could distinctly make out a few 
sentences.
     Melissa, I dont care if youre not happy with the settlement. You 
agreed to it from the beginning.
    But, I didnt know we wouldnt work out then. We were so happy, do you 
remember, Darien? How happy we were? Melissas voice was simpering and 
disgusting.
     Did you marry me for my money then?
    What! No, I didnt mean She had been caught and the they knew 
itincluding me.
     Its settled and Im tired of this entire business. I wont go through 
it again. Im not going to give you more money!
     Forget the money, darling. Melissas tone turned low. I dont want 
it. We had something special, Darien. You have to admit that. I smiled at 
the new tactic she had pulled. Dont you want some of that back? Because we 
canwe were good togetheryou and I.
     All was silent and I was worried that Darien had actually fallen for 
it. Then his voice came; so quiet and steely, I almost didnt hear him. Get 
out, Melissa. And dont bother coming back.
     This isnt over, Darien. Not by a long shot. Melissa seethed. And I 
wont have you cheating on me either. Were still married, until that ink 
has dried, youre still legally mine.
     She was right, unless they were already divorced and Melissa was 
bringing up some past issues, hoping to settle for something more.
     Vows such as marriage never stopped you if I remember correctly. 
    Suddenly the door to his office flung open and Melissa stomped out, 
stopping when she saw me there. One last evil glare and she was gone. I 
didnt care. I knew something else. Judging from the conversation, Melissa 
had cheated. How on earth could a woman think of being unfaithful when she 
had a man as attractive and virile as Darien?
     Let me guessMisunderstood Melissa strikes again? I smiled softly and 
gathered up my things.
    Dariens face remained grim. Oh, I understand her perfectly well now, 
shes a conniving, greedy He stopped suddenly, as if remembering who he 
was talking to. I also recollecting Darien still didnt know that I knew. 
Lets go. He said abruptly. I followed him, wondering when, if ever, he 
would tell me the entire sordid deal with Melissa and him.

****

     When we reached the rest of our families, we sat down and looked over 
the album together, laughing and crying at certain memories. After chatting 
about business, personal lives, and everything under the sun, we finally 
went to dinner.
      The meal was uneventful and afterward, I offered to clear the dishes. 
Darien rose to help me and I got an incredible feeling that we had been down 
this road before and it had not ended well. Resolving to keep my promise to 
myself about not getting into a relationship of any sort with Darien, I 
acknowledged his offer of help with a nod and let him follow me into the 
kitchen.  Lita had taken the weekend off to be with her own family so we 
were left to fend for ourselves the entire vacation.
     Ill rinse and you can put them in the dishwasher. I placed the 
plates in the sink with a slight clatter and turned on the water. After a 
few moments of quiet working, I heard Darien swear softly. I looked over to 
see him holding a towel to his thumb. I immediately turned to him in 
concern, before recalling this same event a few years back.
     Nice try, Sandborn, I said tartly, flicking water on him from my 
hands.
    He came up next to me and rinsed him thumb under the tap, only then did 
I see the watery blood go down the drain. Only then did I realize he had cut 
himself with a knife. Instinctively, I grabbed his hand and set to work 
applying direct pressure. After some time, I lifted the damp towel from the 
cut and figured it had stopped bleeding. I blew on it gently and heard 
Darien suck in his breath raspily. I looked up in surprise and my eyes 
widened when I realized unwittingly, my Florence Nightingale routine had 
been sensual. Throwing away his hand as if it was fire, I mumbled something 
about alcohol and a bandage.
     He smiled at me knowingly and then left the kitchen.
    I blew out my breath and sank against the counter, letting my arms 
support me. So much for my promise.

****

     Later that night, when I was sure the entire house was asleep, I was 
restless. Putting my book down, I stood up and opened the door to my room 
silently. Slipping out, I wandered the halls for a moment before my eyes 
rested on an old room we now used as a storage place. I narrowed my eyes in 
thought, since no one was particularly fond of Dariens marriage, why would 
they display them? Instead, they would prefer to hide them away in some 
place like a storage room.
     Excited, I pulled at the band of my drawstring pants and entered the 
room silently. I fumbled for a light switch and blinked when the harsh light 
disturbed my eyes. I set to work quickly and quietly, pulling out whatever 
may resemble an album. I finally found gold when I cracked open a gold 
crested book filled with pictures of Darien and Melissa, both smiling, 
though Melissa looked at cold as usual. Darien however had warmth radiating 
from his eyes, warmth that I had never had the pleasure of seeing, nor would 
have now. A sudden, unreasonable spark of jealousy shot through me and I 
pushed it down, knowing that even if I wanted a serious commitment with 
Darien, he would never be able to reciprocate those emotions. Not now, 
anyway.
    I focused on the pictures and noticed something strange. In the 
background, there was only a man in white, the priest, and Andrew. In all of 
the pictures, there was no trace of either of our families. I frowned in 
confusion until it struck me. Darien had eloped! Conservative Darien 
Sandborn had thrown caution to the wind and in a passionate flurry, married 
the woman he had believed he loved, stopping only to call Andrew over. But 
that led up to another question: did our families even know of Dariens 
hasty marriage? Or was a kept secret between Darien, Andrew, and Melissa?
     I quickly discarded that thought. Andrew wouldnt have let it slip out 
that Darien was married if he hadnt thought others knew as well. And no way 
would they risk keeping pictures here if it was a guarded clandestinity. I 
flipped through the brief pages slowly, poring over each picture, as if to 
memorize the setting and the look on every persons face. Did Melissa have a 
vengeful expression, planning to take Dariens money from the start? Did 
Darien have a look of hopeful, nave optimism? Did Andrew know his brother 
was making a grave mistake?
     So many questions still left unanswered, even after I had found what I 
wanted. Proof. Up until now, I was hoping it was an awful mistake. Even 
after hearing the irrevocably damaging conversation between Darien and his 
wife, I still held on to some ludicrous notion that it was all a dreadful 
joke of some kind.  But now, as I looked at the frozen photos of Dariens 
wedding, I knew, with a leaden heart and a lump in my throat, that it was a 
done deal. That Darien had taken vows with a woman, a cruel, greedy, 
ruthless woman, that now went by the name Melissa Sandborn.
     When I thought of that cold, callous female taking Dariens name, I 
shuddered involuntarily. I turned to the last page and was about to begin 
looking at the faces, as I had done before, when I heard a low voice rumble 
from behind me.  The voice was unquestionable knowledgeable of my actions, 
yet inquired nonetheless. And just what do you think youre doing?

