CHAPTER 114

Geneveive Tessa Robert

I walked into the burger and french fries shop and looked at the faces. Andrew’s face shone immediately. He was seated at the far end of the shop, waving excitedly. I suspected this was his first date since he moved to the United Kingdom from the States. I recited a little prayer and walked towards him. This was my fourth date since I moved here, and thankfully all has been well. I hoped the disturbing feeling I had tonight wasn't because of Andrew Fisher but because of the scent of salmon pepper. It always reminded me of a stupid incident that happened while I was in school.

‘Hello,’ he greeted, helping with my chair. ‘I hope you didn’t find it hard getting here?’

I smiled. A gentleman and a caring one. Nice one, Tessa. ‘ No, my chauffeur knows almost everywhere in this town. I suspect he used to be a cab driver once upon a time, even though he denies it and has been reminded several times about his former job as a teacher.

He laughed, ‘That’s funny. How did a teacher end up being a chauffeur?’

‘Well, the country’s economy isn’t favourable to a lot of people, and the pay is good, according to him. How are you doing?’ I asked, changing the topic.

‘I am great. Work wasn’t as stressful as the last few days. I actually had a lunch break, Tessa!’ he said, laughing.

Andrew worked at the busiest bank in the country. Titan Monument Bank. He was one of the managing directors and one of those who ruled others' fates. He came from old money, and his family were the grand creators of a lot of businesses. They owned Titan and many other businesses that I knew little about. Mom called them ‘the iron rulers of the United Kingdom’ She had been the one who insisted I go on a date with him.

He might be better than that arrogant Kyle King.

We talked about his lunch break, my job activities, and the kids. He made a lot of funny comments, and I found myself liking him. He wasn’t boastful and paid attention to everything I said. His compliments were genuine, and he was just himself throughout the dinner.

‘I can see you’re having a nice time, Tessa.’A familiar voice grumbled, making me look up from my cup cake.

He was here. Kyle King was wearing a white buttoned shirt, black trousers, and a cold expression. He looked like someone had just told him the worst news ever. 

‘Good evening, Kyle. I fancy seeing you here.’ I replied, not hiding my irritation. How did he know I was here? 

Andrew watched us, and I could guess he was trying to add one and two together. A flick of light shone in his eyes, and I knew immediately that he knew who Kyle was. I hadn’t withheld my divorce status from him, so I wasn’t surprised.

‘I came for dinner and noticed you. We haven’t seen much lately, Tessa.’ Kyle said, ignoring Andrew.

I smiled stiffly. ‘I am on a date, and you’re disturbing us. If you want to see me, you have to book an appointment like other clients.’

He took my right hand. His first mistake. ‘I just want us to talk, Tessa, please. Stop pushing me away.’

I grabbed my hand, my voice raising a bit. ‘I already told you what you needed to do. Now, please leave before you start a drama.’

He grabbed my hand again, but Andrew’s voice stopped him.

‘Hey, man. You heard her, right? We are in the middle of an amazing date, and your presence is disturbing us. Please, take your leave.’

For instance, I thought Kyle was going to punch Andrew, but he just nodded and returned to his table. I felt uncomfortable throughout the rest of the date due to Kyle's burning gaze. Luckily, Andrew noticed it and suggested we leave.

We ended up at a movie theatre, and after checking the crowd for a stony face that resembled my ex-husband and finding nothing, I felt at peace. It was a rom-com show, and Andrew ensured I understood every part of the movie. 

The date had turned out better than I expected. 

‘Are you sure you don’t want me to drop you off?’ Andrew asked again as his chauffeur stopped in front of us.

I was tempted to say yes, but I wanted to play it safe. Reading the uneasy tension growing between us, I knew if I jumped into his car, I might do something I would regret later.

I replied, ‘I am alright, Andrew. Thanks again for the offer and for tonight. I really enjoyed your company.’

He smiled and said, ‘You are a great company too. I hope we can repeat this again?’

‘I will send you a text message if I make up my mind about a second date, Andrew.’

He nodded, drawing me in for an embrace. ‘Take care of yourself and be watchful too. I think an angry bear is lurking around somewhere.’

I laughed at his nickname for Kyle. ‘ Thank you very much, and take care of yourself too.’

The chauffeur came a few  minutes later, and I held myself together throughout the ride. After the vehicle dropped me at the house, I took the elevator to my floor, walked past the kids room, and stepped into my room. I fall onto my bed, letting my body shake a bit. 

It had almost been a crazy night due to Kyle’s interference, but somehow, the universe had listened to my prayers and taken Kyle away. I was worried, though. If he could show up on my dates, that means he could easily trace my new three-story apartment. I sighed. I couldn’t run away from him anymore. A part of me had been feeling sorry for him since he pulled that show at my birthday party. I couldn’t keep hating him forever.

I pulled out my phone and typed a text. ‘Fine, we can see, but it’s going to be a one-time affair, Kyle.’

I sent it and switched off my phone. Hopefully, he won’t ask for another chance after this.