Chapter 23: Chapter 23

ARIEL POV

I still found it difficult to wrap my head around what happened last night. The thought only had my mind wandering about. It was a mystery to me. I wasn't sure of how to react.

Was I the one at fault?

I woke up early this morning as everywhere was quiet. Mrs. Greta had left, probably as Ryan instructed. I figured out Ryan was sleeping opposite the room I slept in yesterday. I could not help but wonder where he got the keys to open it.

It was his house anyway. He must have had spare keys.

Everything was still a mystery to me, especially Ryan's reaction.

I was able to figure out the kitchen easily, as I prepared breakfast. I hardly slept yesterday, as I spent the night brooding and shedding tears. Not only that, but I felt alone.

I started working on making scrambled eggs to keep my mind off Ryan. I was surprised he had so much grocery and food stuff in stock. He is probably a good cook.

As I continued preparing the food,my subconscious reprimanded me.

“He was trying to take advantage of you last night. Shouldn't you be angry with him?”

I shook my head, trying to dwell on that thought. As far as I know, Ryan was sexually attracted to me, and must have wanted to fulfil his sexual desires. But still…

He shouldn't have reacted that way last night. It felt as if he only married me to fulfil his sexual desires.

Footsteps approached, prompting me to quickly dish the meal on a plate, as I sauntered to the living room.

My eyes met with Ryan, who was fully dressed for work. He looked away, as he bent to put on his shoes.

“Good morning Ryan.” I greeted, but did not receive any response.

I gently placed the plate on the dining table as I walked towards Ryan, who did not spare me a glance.

“Anyway, you should eat before leaving for work.” I offered, as he stared at me.

“I'm not interested.” He did not wait any longer as he walked out.

This is not good….

RYAN POV

My stomach growled, reminding me of how stupid it was to reject Ariel's food that morning. The smell was superb, almost making me lose my last self-control, but I held in.

I was angry. Not at Ariel, but at myself. Last night was a mistake which should not have happened or even will occur again. It would be better if we continued to keep ourselves at arm's length.

I glanced at the pile of work on my table, making me more furious and tired. I need to get an assistant. But the problem was finding someone trustworthy.

I really can't wait to live the simple life I always wanted. Not a rich or wealthy lifestyle, but a lifestyle where my basic needs of life will be met. A work that I will be happy to do.

I swivel around before going back to my work. It continued for hours, not giving me a second to think about Ariel or my loss of appetite for other food except the one prepared by Ariel.

I heaved a sigh of relief, when the mountain of work suddenly reduced to just two more files to check on. This prompted me to rest on my chair, as I felt a pain at the lower part of my abdomen.

“So much for not eating this morning.” I mused.

The thought of any other food repels me, as I have begun to be fond of her meal. Ever since I requested for her to cook, I have always taken her meals.

The door opened without the intruder knocking, and I was sure it was no one besides Nick. He had a devious smile on as he sauntered forward.

My forehead creased, as I noticed the familiar basket in his hand. My eyes met with his, as he settled down, putting the basket beside him.

“I can't believe that my best friend hid his marriage date from me. I hate you.” I burst into laughter, shaking my head at his words.

“Sorry bro, but you were to travel out of the country for an important deal. If I had told you the exact date, you wouldn't have gone for that business deal. Nah, nah. Pardon me this once.” I begged, folding my hands.

I only informed him that I will be getting married this month end. If he knew the date, he would definitely come. And as a matter of fact, it was just a marriage. And the less the people, the better.

“Apology accepted, but you will have to have a fun time with me today. Just the two of us.” I nodded in agreement, my mind on the basket he came in with.

It was undoubtedly Ariel's. Did Nick go to my house?

“How was the business deal?” I asked, trying not to dwell much on my thoughts.

“It went well. I now have a business deal with one of the biggest restaurants in Australia. It was all good.” He smiled cheekily, as if he was over the moon.

“Congratulations bro.”

“Thank you. Meanwhile, I came back last night. I branched your house this morning. Shouldn't you be at home instead of work?” He scolded, as my stomach rumbled.

My face flushed with embarrassment, as Nick looked intently at me, with a peculiar kind of interest. He folded his arms, around his chest, his gaze still at me.

“Ryan, you are very dumb.” Irritation spread across my face at his words. I knew he would certainly scold me.

“You have a wife, for God’s sake. Why are you still behaving as if you are single? Skipping breakfast? Seriously?” He scolded, as I hissed.

If only he knew what transpired between Ariel and I last night, which resulted in me keeping her at arm's length, then he would just shut up.

“Firstly, don't judge a book by its cover. I have an explanation. Something weird is happening to me.” I explained, letting out a breath.

Being married seems like a trap already.

“Okay. But before you start your tale by moonlight, eat this. Your wife sent it to you,” A smile crept to my lips, as I collected the basket.

My eyes widened, as I realized there were two sets of food in the basket. I took one of them, as I opened it. My mouth salivates at the sight of bacon and eggs with coffee in a plastic cup, alongside some cutleries.

Within a few minutes, I was able to finish the food in no time. Its taste was refreshing, sweet, and delicious. If not for the presence of Nick, whose eyes kept lingering on me, I would have settled for the second meal. I wondered what was inside.

“So much for keeping your wife at arm's length.” Nick teased, as I dropped the plastic container in a waste bin.

“So much for being single.” I fired back, as he snickered.

“Seriously? Please go on with your story. I hate being reminded of being single.” He moved closer, placing his elbows on the table.

“Last night, I felt drawn to Ariel in an unexplainable way.” I heaved a sigh, finding it difficult to continue my little tale.

“Don't tell me you both consummated your marriage?” Nick's eyes widened, as I shook my head.

“I attempted to kiss and touch her, but…”

“No way. You are sexually attracted to my sister-in-law.” I rolled my eyes.

He is shameless for calling Ariel his sister-in-law.

“You are poke nosing. Should I continue or stop?” He chuckled, as he beckoned for me to continue.

“I saw Evelyn's face on Ariel's. That was not until I touched Ariel the second time. I realized I was somehow in a trance. I left the room.” I rubbed my forehead, gently moving my fingers on it.

“Oh. Sorry, bro. That meant Ariel rejected you, and you decided to keep her at arm's length because your ego was hurt, and you are afraid of falling for her.” I rested my chin on the back of my hands.

His words were like daggers. It was as if he saw through me. I could agree with all, except the fact that I'm afraid of falling for Ariel. That is an impossible future tense.

“I was already enjoying your hypothesis until you ruined it with your last set of words. I can never fall in love with Ariel.” I stated firmly, slightly irritated.

It was as if the words came out awfully. I wasn't exactly sure of why I needed to keep Ariel at arm's length, except that I wanted to keep our year as a couple with no flaws. Preferably, no strings attached.

“Keep it up, bro. It is just a waste of time. Ariel does not look like giving up on you. And the worst part is that you are already developing a soft spot for her.” He winked at me, as I ignored him.

I stood up, looking outside my window. Different images of Evelyn clouding my mind. I missed her.

I held onto my chest, as I whispered: "After Evelyn, my heart had been turned to stone. I doubt if I can love again."