Whitney's POV
I returned to New York after five years living in L.A. Nothing has changed since I left here, the buildings, streets, and people were just as I left them. Glancing at myself in the mirror for one last time. I was wearing a silver dress that sparkled in the daylight, and a white fluffy short coat with heels that were a bit too high. I looked like a hooker, but it would all be worth it when I accomplished my mission.
My phone buzzed, and I quickly dug it out of my handbag. Ashley's name popped up on my phone. Without hesitation, I answered, "I'm on my way. Don't get your panties in a twist." I said as I grabbed my bag and keys.
"Bitch, you had to be here fifteen minutes ago. If I end up in jail today for murder, it would be on your hands." Her voice was laced with annoyance.
I couldn't stop my laughter from escaping. "Dude, calm down. I'm staying a block away from the plaza. I will be there in just a few to save you." I made my way into the elevator and pressed the button for the ground floor. "It took me a while to find the perfect outfit."
"I can't wait to see what you decided to wear. But please just hurry. This woman is driving me nuts." She let out a sigh.
"Yeah, yeah. See you in a few, bye." Disconnecting the call, I threw my phone into my bag and stepped out of the elevator.
Time to save my best friend from her evil mother-in-law. My honest opinion, I have no idea how she puts up with that woman. But she does, for the sake of her love for her soon-to-be husband, Andy. How he survived with her for his entire life, only he would know the secret of not wanting to kill her himself.
As I made my way down the street towards the plaza, prying eyes were on me the entire way. My dress shimmered in the sunlight, and my purple and pink hair was as vibrant as when I first coloured it. Don't blame the people for staring, I did, in fact, look like I was on my way to stand on a corner and earn a living. Little did they know I was a successful plastic surgeon.
If only they knew why I was dressed like this, they would laugh and encourage me. But I knew well enough that New York was full of judgmental people and wouldn't want to hear your reasons. I never did care what people thought of me, especially when I decided to dye my hair two different colors. As a surgeon, it raises eyebrows, but it also makes my clients comfortable when they want to change their appearance. I loved my job, don't get me wrong. But sometimes it gets too much. So many people want to change their looks, I didn't mind, though; it paid my bills.
Reaching the Plaza, I looked up at the building, "Still the same." I said to myself with a smile. "Let the show begin." I stepped through the Plaza's main doors and looked around. Then I spotted Ashley. I waved at her with a smirk playing on my face, gesturing for her to look at my outfit. I spun around, showing off the entire look.
"Oh. My. She is going to freak when she sees you." She covered her mouth with her hands, "You look like you're looking for a quick buck."
"That was the look I was going for." I stepped closer to her and wrapped my arms around her, taking Ashley into my embrace. "It's so amazing to see you. You have no idea how much I missed you."
"Same. I'm so happy you're back. Life has been boring not having you by my side." She stepped back, looking slightly up to meet my gaze, "It was a nice touch with the heels, though. You're very intimidating, and this makes it times ten."
A smirk played on my face, "Shall we start this fun game?" Ashley just smiled and grabbed my hand, and we made our way to the ceremony hall. I looked around, amazed at how beautiful this place still is. I only visited this place once, and that was when I was like five, but I still remember it like it was yesterday. "So, where is Motherzilla?" Ashley pointed discreetly to her mother-in-law's direction. She was yelling at one of the staff members, then the woman walked away crying. "Shit," I said softly, but Ashley heard me.
"Don't chicken out, please," Ashley begged.
"Oh, no. This is going to be one of my happiest days ever." I smiled and walked over to her mother-in-law. "Miss Gambino, I presume." I stuck out my hand for a handshake.
She looked me up and down with her judgy eyes, then she rolled her eyes. If she rolled them any harder, it might have ended in the back of her head. I lowered my hand, clearing, seeing that she was not willing to touch me, "And you are?" She asked with a judgmental tone.
I smiled at her, "Well, Ma'am, I'm the best friend of your daughter-in-law. And I wanted to get to know you. Wanted to get to know the woman who is going to be part of my friend's life."
She let out a sigh, "I have a wedding to plan, there isn't time for me to chat..." Her eyes glided over me once more, "With anyone." She made her way past me and went to yell at other staff members of the Plaza.
Crossing my arms over my chest, I smiled. Ashley walked over to me and gave me a 'clearly you pissed her off' look. "What did you say to her?" She asked, trying to keep herself from laughing.
"Not much. Just that I wanted to get to know her. But clearly, she didn't feel the same way." I looked at Ashley and burst out laughing. She joined me, laughing.
"You are really something else. Do you know that?" Ashley said, then turned to look at me, "So, you're joining us tonight at our favourite bar?"
"I'm not sure. Was planning on reading a book or just soaking in the bath." I said with a steady tone, and Ashley looked at me with disbelief written all over her face. Laughing once more, and touched her arm, "Don't worry. I'll be there."
"Good. But I really hope you will not be wearing," She gestured to my outfit, "that."
"Hey. Maybe I want to be the center of attention tonight, and not just by you guys." Ashley's eyes widened, "I'm kidding, don't take everything I say seriously. Please. I know I've been gone for five years, but I haven't changed. I'm still the sarcastic, pain in the ass friend you know and love." I gave her a warm smile.
Ashley shook her head, "Well," She turned and looked in the direction her mother-in-law went, "Think I'm in the clear... For now. I'll see you tonight. Wear something cute." She gave me a tight hug, and she was off. I let out a sigh as I smile, I turned around and made my way out of the Plaza.
Looking for my phone in my bag, my attention was full on my bag. I walked into what felt like a brick wall. I groaned and looked up, but I was met by the most handsome face I have ever seen in the streets of New York. Meeting his dark brown gaze, he leaned in and then brushed a stand of hair behind my ear. He was muscular, could see he went to the gym on a daily basis. His suit, hugging his body, showed that clearly.
"Are you okay? You walked into me with great force." He spoke, then straightened. His voice was deep and soothing at the same time. Blushing, I looked away. "Interesting choice in clothes."
Shit, I forgot I was wearing this, "I... It's not..." Why was I so nervous? I have never been nervous in front of a man before.
He chuckled, "Cat got your tongue, Little Daisy?"
Meeting his gaze again, I took a breath, "I apologize. I wasn't looking where I was going, but I will keep focused. Sorry again." Saying in a rush. Then I walked past him, and I could feel his eyes burning a hole through my skull. What was wrong with me? I have never been nervous around anyone before, not even my own parents. Who was he, and why did he make me feel that way? And what's with the weird nickname? Fuck.
"See you around, Little Daisy." His voice is calm. I looked back to see him waving at me, "Keep your focus in front of you, don't want you walking into anyone else." I turned my attention to in front of me.
After what felt like hours of walking, I finally reached my apartment building.
Whitney's POV
After a warm shower and a change of clothes, I felt like myself again. Dressed in a tight pair of skinny jeans and a cute little red top, with black short heel boots, I felt more me. Standing in front of the mirror, I did my make-up and my hair. Deciding whether to wear it up or down, I decided to go with down. I just felt it completed my outfit. Then the sound of my phone ringing echoed through the room.
Grabbing my phone, Ashley's name appeared. Smiling, I answered, "My darling sweetheart, miss me already."
She laughed, "Bitch, where are you? I said seven."
I checked the time, "Really, I still have half an hour left." Grabbing my jacket and keys, I made my way out the door.
"We all know you are always late. You should really try to leave a whole hour earlier."
"I'm leaving now. I'll be there in about twenty minutes. Please just keep your panties on until I get there." I said, stepping into the elevator.
"Hurry the fuck up." She started to whisper, "And my one friend is here that I want you to meet, he is fucking gorgeous. Like hot, hot."
"You're marrying Andy, you're hot, and my hot are completely different." A soft chuckle escaped.
"Hey! Just get your ass here." The call dropped.
Laughing, I called a cab and got in. I stared out of the window, and my thoughts went back to that man I walked into. His beautiful dark brown eyes, almost black, but if the sun caught them just right it was a beautiful amber colour. And his black hair, fuck, how I got so flustered was beyond me. I knew the chances of me running into him again were one out of a hundred. Not sure if I would be able to speak to him if I did.
After the drive, I paid the driver and gave him a generous tip and got out. I looked up at the building. If this bar could talk, man, it would tell amazing and crazy stories. Smiling, I made my way into the bar. At first glance, I saw Ashley. She spotted me and waved. Making my over, she gave me her 'why are you late' look. I threw my hands up in a surrender motion, "I'm not late, I still have," I glance at my watch, "Five minutes before seven left."
"I swear I'm going to start telling you something starts an hour before it actually does. Then you'll actually be on time." She said, crossing her arms over her chest.
"Don't be so mean." I pout, "I am always on time, even if it is one minute before the time. I'm still on time, you can argue with that." I gave her a 'please forgive me' pout.
She let out a sigh, "Okay, fine. But next time, if you are just one minute late, I will hang you. Deal?"
"Fine, deal." I grab her arm and wrap it over mine, "Now that we've settled this, let's get a drink." We made our way over to the bar, and we ordered our drinks. I ordered a single Captain Morgan dark rum with Coke, and Ashley a cute soft drink, Brutal Fruit. Ashley wanted to walk away, but I pulled her back, "Nope, we need a shot." Ashley sighed and almost looked like a child; I laughed, then ordered two Jägermeisters.
"Why do you enjoy torturing me?" Her shoulders slumped.
"Because my dear friend." I kissed her on the cheek, "I missed you, and we haven't seen each other in five years. And I'm a pain in the ass." I handed Ashley her shot. She took it while pulling a disgusted face, "Cheers, tonight is going to be amazing."
We tapped our shot glasses together and downed the shot. Ashley pulled her face in a way I haven't seen before, and laughter escaped my mouth. Returning to our other friends, they gave me a hug, and we chatted, and then Ashley grabbed my arm.
"Okay, now I need to introduce you." She pulled me towards a man standing with his back towards us. "Casio!" She yelled as he turned around, and my eyes widened. "Casio, this is Whitney, and Whitney, this is Casio."
A grin played on his face, "Now I can put a name to the one who walked into me." He said, meeting my gaze.
Ashley's eyes danced between me and him, "You two know each other?" Her voice was laced with surprise.
"No, not at all. Just bumped into each other earlier today, literally." His eyes scanned me, "This outfit suits you much better." He smirked.
I could feel how my cheeks started to turn red, "I'll leave you two to chat a little bit." Ashley said with a devious smile and walked away, leaving me with this too attractive man.
"So, Whitney. What was up with that outfit? Didn't seem like it was your style at all." He asked as a smirk played on his gorgeous face.
Looking away a bit embarrassed, I finally gathered the words to speak, "It was for Ashley. Not sure if you know what a royal pain her mother-in-law can be. But I dressed like that to draw the attention off her for a little while. I was just helping her out." He nodded, and his eyes slightly narrowed. "Don't look at me with judgmental eyes. I was doing my part as best friend, okay." I crossed my arms over my chest.
"No judgment. Not in the slightest. Just surprised that you would go as far as dressing... like..." He hesitated as if trying to find the best word to describe my outfit.
"A hooker." I laughed, then took a sip of my drink.
"I wanted to put it in a nicer way. But, seeing that you said that. Yes, you indeed looked like a hooker." He chuckled. My knees went numb as I heard it. Fuck, this man was perfect in every way possible. From his looks to his way of speech, to even his laugh. I met his gaze, and it felt like he was looking right into my soul. "So, tell me, Little Daisy," He leaned in and then whispered in my ear, "What are the chances of me getting your number?"
He stood back and tilted his head slightly, waiting for my response. If there was someone out there, please help me so that I don't jump this man before the night is over. I smiled slightly, "Maybe, I should let you work for it."
Casio raised one eyebrow, and a smirk followed right after, "Trust me, Little Daisy. If I'm determined to get something, I make sure that I get it." He leaned in once more and spoke softly, "And believe me, you will regret giving me a challenge." Shivers ran down my spine. Fuck, this man. My smile hung open. "So, care to dance with me?" He stuck out his hand, giving me a smile. Looking at his hand, then back to meet his eyes, I smiled and took his hand.
He pulled me against his chest, then smiled down at me. The heat of his left hand burned on my back; our feet moved swiftly over the dancefloor. He pushed me away gently and spun me around, then pulled me back against his body. What was this man doing to me? He made my heart race and beat calmly at the same time. He dipped me, lowering me closely to the ground, but his grip on me was firm. Bringing me back up, our eyes met.
He smirked and spun me around once more. This man knew how to work his way on a dancefloor; he was on beat with every step, every spin, and every dip. Was this man a god or just a supernatural being, because no one could be this perfect? As the song came to an end, we finished with a dip, and he looked right into my eyes. My chest rose and fell as I tried to catch my breath, "Assuming I earned your number?" I smiled, he lifted me, and held his hands on my hips. "I sure hope that smile is a yes? I would be very disappointed if it's a no."
I laughed, "Sure, you earned my number. But if I ever need a dance partner again, I'm putting your number on speed dial."
"I sure hope you do." He said calmly, his voice steady. I was out of breath, and this man didn't even break a sweat. This man might be the death of me. "Let's get something to drink, you look like you might be thirsty." He placed his hand on my lower back and led me to the bar.
As the night continued, we talked and danced and had fun with my friends. At the end of the night, I greeted everyone, and Casio offered to walk me out. With a smile, I accepted his offer. He called a cab for me, and as the cab came to a halt, he opened the door for me. "So, that number?" He asked with his eyes fixed on me.
"I almost forgot." I gave him my number, and he saved it on his phone. "Then I'll see you around."
"You definitely will, Little Daisy." He leaned in and gave me a soft kiss on the cheek. I could feel how my cheeks turned bright red instantly. "Sleep tight." I smiled and climbed into the cab.
Casio's POV
I watched as the cab drove off, standing at the curb, a smile formed on my face. This girl will be the death of me. Her beautiful blue eyes that could devour your soul if you let them. Her choice in hair colour, purple with those pink highlights, made her eyes even more blue. Curious what her natural colour is? It doesn't matter. She was perfect, her small body, which made her look like a pixie. Fuck, she was just beyond perfect.
Stepping back into the club, Ashley came running towards me with a devious smile on her face. I knew in an instant what she was going to ask. We became friends a year ago. I met Andy at a golf club, and he introduced me to his friend group. And tonight, I was extremely grateful that he did. Otherwise, I wouldn't have met Whitney. Even if I didn't meet her officially tonight, I would have made a plan to get to know her.
I knew the moment she walked into me earlier today, I had to know her. I had to know this woman who wore heels almost taller than she was and a dress that made her noticeable. Those legs. Then I was snapped back into reality when Ashley slapped my shoulder. Raising one eyebrow, I looked at her.
"So?" She asked, looking at me with wide eyes.
"So what?" I asked simply.
"So, what happened? Did you kiss her?"
I simply looked at her and narrowed my eyes. I forgot how nosy woman can get when their friends are introduced to someone. Their curiosity sometimes overtook their judgment of people. But Ashley was a very gullible and easy-to-manipulate type of person; she trusts too quickly. I mean, she is marrying Andy, if she really knew what he did with his time and how he was able to afford that massive ring on her finger. She would be disappointed.
"Ashley, that has nothing for you to concern yourself with. Anyway, I believe Whitney will tell you herself." I said, then made my way over to the bar.
"Come on. Just a little tell. I can't wait until tomorrow to hear it." She started jumping like a little kid wanting a piece of candy. Turning to face her, I leaned against the bar. "Casio, come on, don't torture me like this." She pouted.
"No, is not Ashley. You'll just have to wait until your friend decides to tell you." Giving her a smile, I grabbed my coat and greeted Andy with a handshake, "Thanks for inviting me." I greeted everyone as I made my way towards the door. Ashley crossed her arms over her chest, "That doesn't work on me, darling." She let out a sigh and hugged me.
Leaving the bar, I climbed into my car. It was an Audi RS Q8, it was matt black, and the engine roared as I started it. Leaving the club, my thoughts went straight to Whitney. That woman made my heart race just by the thought of her. How her body felt against mine, how her little hand fitted perfectly in mine. How I wanted to hold her against me once more, I wanted to stare into the depths of her eyes.
As I was driving, my thoughts spiraled around her. Then I glanced down and saw I was driving a hundred miles per hour on the freeway. Removing my foot slowly from the escalator, the gauge fell to fifty. Then the blue siren lights flashed in my rearview mirror. I chuckled softly, "My Little Daisy, you are going to get me into so much trouble." I whispered to myself.
I took a glance in the rearview mirror and slowed down, pulling off to the side of the road. I turned off the engine and waited. The police van stopped behind me, and then a woman stepped out of the van. Walking towards my car, she shone her flashlight through the window opening. I squinted, and the woman lowered the flashlight. "Sir." Her eyes widened. "I apologize, I didn't realize it was you." I could see the fear in her eyes; I gave her a slight smile. "You're free to go." She said quickly and made her way back to the van.
Shaking my head, the cops of this town were so wrapped around my finger. I loved my life and the power I held in this town. Turning the engine back on, the engine roared once more. Putting it into gear, I headed back home. Stopping in my driveway, I stepped out, "Afternoon, Carlson. Trust everything went smoothly?"
"Afternoon, Sir. Everything is just as you left it. Can I park the car?" Carlson asked and stood to the side, gesturing for him to take the car.
"Thank you. If you're done, please find me in my office." I said, then made my way into my home and straight to my office. I fell into my chair and opened my laptop; my fingers glided over the keyboard. A smile appeared on my face when I saw what I wanted to see. Then my office doors opened, and Carlson stepped towards me. I gestured for him to take a seat. "I need you to do me a favour. But this needs to be done as discreetly as possible."
"Why so?" He asked as he tilted his head slightly, and confusion was written all over his face.
A smirk played on my face, "Let's just say some people will not approve of my methods."
Carlson chuckled, "No one ever does. But whatever it might be, I will be happy to arrange it for you. But you seem different tonight, much different before you left for your outing."
"That, my dear friend, is because I met her again." A smile appeared on my face.
"The one that bumped into you earlier today. That one?"
"The exact one, yes. She saved me the trouble of finding her. There is just something about her, and I have already made up my mind about her. She will be mine. One way or another." My voice was calm but also determined.
Carlson's eyes narrowed slightly, "And what if she doesn't feel the same? And... what if she finds out who you really are?" He leaned back and looked at me, waiting for a valid answer. "You understand your methods might scare her off, or worse, make her skip town."
"That won't happen. I won't lie to her; I won't make her fall for someone I'm not. Anyway, I don't want to live up to someone else's expectations of what to be." I knew Carlson had a point. What if she tried to run? I wouldn't let that happen, but she will fall for me. She will fall for me as hard as I fell for her when I first saw her. Smiling, Carlson cleared his throat, making my eyes shoot to him. "If you want to judge, please do it somewhere else."
He raised his hands in a defensive gesture, "You know I don't judge. I only give you advice; what you do with it is all up to you. Just don't take things too far. That's all I'm saying." Carlson slowly made his way to his feet. "Can I get you some coffee or whiskey?"
"Whiskey will be fine, thank you." Making my way to my feet and walking over to the window, I stared out. Carlson poured me and glass of whiskey then handed it to me. I nod to thank him.
"Just think before you do. That's all I'm saying. Goodnight." I nod and watch as he leaves my office. Turning my attention back to the outside, and took a sip of the whiskey. It burned as it went down, a sensation that never gets old.
"Don't worry, my Little Daisy, I will think before I do something. You will be mine, and mine alone." My voice was soft, barely audible. A smile appeared on my face, then I downed my glass in one go.