He moved in closer, further assaulting my senses. “Zoey, we’re not gonna go backwards. There’s nothing I can give to fully compensate for what you’ve given me. Nowhere on my long list of regrets do you and Jordan appear. You both are on my short list of accomplishments. If it weren’t for your “seduction,” that list would be almost nonexistent.”
Suddenly, he was in my face...just inches away from my twitching lips. If I inhaled deeply, I’d meet his heart shaped lips. As tall as he was, how could I have missed him lowering himself? Was he going to kiss me? Would that have been right? Did I care? My eyes fluttered shut and I let a calming breath escape, preparing for what could have been yet another monumental mishap. I felt the cooling minty aroma of Stenton’s breath on my face. I craved the taste of his lips.
“Zoey…”
That sound woke me out of my trance. I tossed a glance over my shoulder to find Bernard on one leg, clearly having skidded his way to the front of the house. Then his eyes were wide and mouth agape, evidence of him being aware of what Stenton and I were engaged in—or nearly engaged in.
“Sister Barrett says it’s time to cut the cake,” he shared, wearing a crestfallen expression.
Wetting my lips, I tried to calm my panting. “I’ll be right there. Thanks.” When I turned back to Stenton, he was standing straight. Now Bernard wasn’t the only with a scowl. “I’m sorry for all of this.” I didn’t know what else to say.
“You’re not the one owing an apology here,” he murmured. His eyes squinted and jaw clenched, all expressing control. What I questioned was who needed to apologize: Stenton or Bernard?
“Thanks for coming, Stent,” I offered, prepared to leave. “I know you had to cut your schedule close to be here today. Momma told me you have a flight to catch.”
I was surprised that he even showed, considering Erika had her makeup line launch event in California tonight. It had been announced on all the blogs and played up on her reality show. It would be yet another red carpet affair the pair attended. That knowledge was probably what kicked off my blues from the time I woke up this morning. I knew my party would be here in Alpine. And when I arrived with my overnight bag, per the instructions of Tynisha, I realized he’d paid for today’s event based on the white coated staff that bustled throughout the property, serving my guests. I was grateful for him carving out time to stop in on my celebration.
“I still have a few minutes before I leave for the airport. It’s been my pleasure seeing you celebrated and moving forward.” Then his brows furrowed. “Speaking of moving forward, what’s next for Elizabeth, the scholar, now that she has this expertise in business finance? I can always use some help with my foundation. If you don’t wanna work for me, I know more than enough people who can use your genius.” I then saw the amusement in his eyes.
I sighed heavily, drawing up my shoulders before releasing them. “I don’t know. Trust me, you’ve done more than enough for me. I couldn’t ask for more.” I exhaled. “You know Ni?a: she’ll always find something to get into, right?” I chuckled.
His face sobered, his eyes squinted, and he exhaled, his cool breath hitting my skin. I shivered hoping he didn’t catch it.
Stenton nodded, hiding his grin. “Yeah. Yet you always manage to come out on top.” He gestured with his chin. “They’re waiting on the graduate.”
I nodded and slowly walked away with him on my heels.
Outside, my guests cheered me on as my father led the “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow” ditty with a twist to include my gender. I smiled, amused by his infectious jubilation. There were hoots and shouts by everyone. And way in the back of the gathered crowd was my pride and joy, Jordan, happily dancing in the arms of Stenton, who was beaming from his eyes. My smile widened at the image.