'Beep. Beep. Beep.'
'Yes Pepper, you know I'm on my lunch break?' Alexia asked.
'Um yes, sorry, Miss Lucas, but Mr. Warren Hemmington is asking for you? The Warren Hemmington, from the billboard,' replied Pepper. 'Oh, I'll be straight down,' replied Alex. She rushed to the restroom to check her hair and makeup. Trying to figure out why the millionaire owner of this company, which had stores in more than thirty countries, was here in the store that she managed. She straightened her skirt and went downstairs.
'Sorry to keep you waiting, Mr. Hemmington. I'm Alexia Lucas, Manager of this store.' Alex said, holding out her hand for the tall, tan and handsome stranger. Warren looked at Alexia's hand and ignored it. Then said, 'I'm looking for the Wool slim fit waistcoat in navy and the Hemmington tuxedo in midnight. Size 36' trousers and 40' jacket.'
'Yes Sir, this way,' Alexia said, her cheeks still burning from the rejection. Warren followed close behind her, enjoying the view. Not bad, but she wasn't Tammy. After they arrived upstairs, where the 'Platinum' attire is displayed, Alex rushed about looking for Mr. Million's sizes. Just as Alexia went to hand the clothes to Warren his phone rang, he held up his hand to stop her and answered it with his other hand.
'Hey, little brother, you're not trying to back out of family dinner again, are you? Mum won't stand for it!' Warren teased. 'Wait, what?' Warren started to rub his fingers over his two-day stubble. 'Seriously, Bart? Okay, okay, see you at seven.' Warren turned towards Alexia looking at the items in her arms. 'Miss?' He inquired. 'Lucas, Alexia Lucas.' She replied. 'Yes, Alexia, I'm in a bit of a hurry if you don't mind. Can I have them sent to my room at the Hemmington Hotel, please?' Warren asked, heading back downstairs. Alexia followed close behind him. 'Not a problem, Mr. Hemmington.,' she said in a rushed voice. Warren didn't turn to acknowledge her, just left the store.
Pepper squealed, 'Ahh, he is such a dreamboat, Alex. The things I could do to that body.' 'Pepper, down girl. He was a total rich snob.' Alex snipped. She burst out laughing 'Someone got under your skin.' Alexia's assistant teased. Alexia shook head walking back to her office to finish her lunch.
At 4.20, a well-dressed gentleman knocked on Alexia's office door. Raising her eyes towards the office door, Alexia invited the stranger in. 'Miss Lucas, Master Warren Hemmington the third, request your company at his family dinner tonight. Formal attire is required. Would you please advise me of your dress and shoe size and where they shall be sent? Mr. Hemmington will have his driver pick you up at 6 pm. Do you accept his invitation?'
'Yes, yes she does.' Pepper interrupted, having burst into the room after eavesdropping.
'Miss, your answer please?' The messenger asked eagerly. He seemed on edge to Alexia, but she couldn't blame him.
'Yes, yes, I accept,' Alexia said even though she was still in shock. Pepper handed over the details she'd already written down for Alexia.
'Mr. Hemmington said you could close up early. Good day, ladies.' replied the messenger and left with a tilt of his hat.
Alexia arrived home an hour later. There was a car out the front of her apartment. The driver got out and approached her holding two packages. 'Alexia Lucus?' The driver questioned but walked towards her like he already knew the answer. She nodded and took the packages from the man, thanked him then walked inside.
When inside, Alexia placed the packages on her coffee table, feeling strange. Opening the larger box first, she sucked her breath in, in awe. It was a beautiful slim fit black satin dress with a single strap and a slit up one thigh. The following package contained a simple pair of black strappy heels.
Warren and his driver arrived promptly at 6 pm. Alexia emerged from the front door, and Warren thought she was breathtaking. She had curled her golden hair and applied a little makeup.
'Evening, Miss Lucas,' Warren greeted while opening the door for her. 'Call me, Alex. " She gushed.
They sat in silence for the first few minutes until Warren broke the silence. 'Alex, I asked you to accompany me tonight because my brother Bart decided to bring his new girlfriend Isla, to dinner. My parents would have spent the whole dinner lecturing me about finding a nice girl and settling down.' The more he spoke, the less she wanted to be there. 'I'm sorry if this isn't what you expected, Miss - I mean Alex, but I assure you the food and surroundings will be of the highest quality. The dress and shoes are yours to keep. And I could have asked any number of women to accompany me, but I chose you." Warren concluded.
Alexia looked up and met his stare and gave him a weak smile then nodded in agreement. What had she gotten herself into this time, she thought. Warren signaled the driver that they're ready to leave. Alex swallowed back the tears that threatened to escape, telling herself just to enjoy the night. They arrived at the restaurant twenty minutes later, Alexia couldn't help feeling nervous and excited. She'd always heard customers talk about this place. She felt like she was in a dream. As Warren and Alexia entered, they were escorted to a private dining room, set for six.
They were the first to arrive, which pleased them both. Alexia started getting cold feet. 'What if they ask me questions? who am I supposed to be, me? What if - ' Alex worried out loud.
'Alex, breathe, they won't question you, and if they do, I'll answer. Okay?' Warren reassured. Alexia nodded and accepted the champagne the waiter gave to her, drinking a little too fast. Soon Warren's parents arrived, then Bart and Isla. Dinner was exquisite, the conversation lite and the company friendly. Alex found herself enjoying the evening and was sad when it came to an end. When they got back to Alexia's, Warren politely opened the car door and wished her a goodnight.
'Ring, ring, ring.'
'Yes, Pepper?' Alexia answered. 'Mr. Billboard is on line two,' Pepper replied. 'Thank you, Pepper.' Alex chuckled as Pepper transferred her.
'Hello, Mr. Hemmington, how may I help you this afternoon?' Alexia asked. 'Please Alex, call me Warren. We are dating. My parents will be hosting a fundraiser Saturday night. Are you free to be picked up at 7.30?' Alexia's was stunned into silence, had she heard correctly and wasn't that her choice too? 'Alex, hello Alex?' Warren repeated a little louder.
'Yes, 7.30 is fine.' Alexia replied, 'But don't you... I guess not.' Alexia was left staring at the phone with her mouth wide open as it beeped at her. She shook her head as she replaced the receiver then ran downstairs in search of Pepper, who was locking the front door. 'Mr. Billboard invited me out again.' She announced. Pepper squealed, half deafening her. 'Wait, Pepper, this is going to sound weird, but he said that we're dating.' Alex continued. Pepper ran over and wrapped her arms around her best friend.
'Oh my gosh Alex's, that amazing.'
'I guess. I would have liked a say in the matter thou.' Alex argued.
"Alex, you're overthinking it. Just go out and have fun.' Pepper said. 'Otherwise, I will.' She let out a wild laugh and Alex, couldn't help but join her.
Warren paced back and forth in his tenth-floor office. Bart was late as usual, and that wasn't good for business. He was never punctual and didn't take his job seriously. Warren didn't think Bart had what the company needed. It was the same thing over and over with his younger brother, he just didn't care about the family business the way he did. Finally giving up he went home he'd had enough of his brother's games.
It was Saturday evening. Alexia had just stepped out of the shower. She was ready in case things escalated tonight. Alexia had tried her dress on previously but as she put it on now, she was still in awe of the reflection staring back at her. The emerald, green satin, backless dress made her feel like a princess. Warren had sent it along with emerald studs and a matching pendant necklace. Peppers eyes almost popped out of her head. 'Oh wow, Alex, you look like a movie star. I'm so excite. Let's do your hair and makeup.' Pepper dried and straightened Alexia's hair talking a million miles a minute, asking any and every thought that popped into her head. Most of them, Alexia couldn't answer and had been asking herself. What's happening? Is it serious? Does he do this often? Are there other women? does he have feelings for me?
There was a knock at the door. Warren was early. Pepper hid in Alex's bathroom, as her friend walked towards the door and opened it. Warren whistled softly. 'Wow, Alex, your stunning, and your eyes stand out in that dress.' Warren said, blushing. He didn't seem comfortable handing out compliments. Alex was very flattered and couldn't help the smile that spread across her face.
'Thank you, Warren, and may I say that you're looking very handsome yourself.' Alex admitted. Warren held out his arm to escort her to the limo.
'Shall we go, honey?' He asked. Alex threaded her arm through his and followed him to the waiting car.
Everywhere Alex looked, there were people from magazines, tv shows, and models. It was like nothing she'd seen before, and the hottest guy was with her. Warren hadn't let go of her all night. Now it was time for the four-course dinners. It was a charity event and had cost each guest three hundred dollars. She followed Warren to their table, which sat eight people. Alex and Warren's table was at the front of the room. It also seated Mr. and Mrs. Hemmington, Bart, Isla, and a couple she hadn't met. Alexia couldn't help but notice that Warren seemed quiet once they were all seated. Which was strange he'd been talkative and attentive up until now. Bart had an amused look in his eyes and kept glancing sideways at Warren. Something was going on. Dinner seemed to pass slowly. There was minimal talking despite Sharron Hemmington's efforts to start conversations. It was clear everyone else at the table knew each other, as the atmosphere was strained.
After the third course, Warren excused himself from the table to use the restroom but didn't return. Once dinner was over, Alex went to find him, but before she could Bart stopped her. 'Alex, I'm sorry if that was a little awkward for you. What are the chances of Warren's ex-girlfriend Tammy being seated at our table? I don't think he's fully gotten over their break-up, and now seeing her with someone else must have gotten to him. But I'm sure he told you all about her?' Bart shared with a grin on his face.
'Yes, of course he did. Now excuse me while I go find Warren.' Spat Alex. She wasn't sure who she felt angrier with Bart or Warren.
Not paying attention, Alex walked straight into a hard chest. two strong arms caught her shoulders. She looked up into seething brown eyes. 'Let's get out of here, Alex. I've had enough company for tonight.' Warren said without waiting for a reply. 'Would you like to come back with me?' In answer Alexia rose onto her toes and gently kissed his lips. He kissed her back deeply for a minute, then grabbed her hand and led her back to the waiting car.
Once inside, they started kissing again, Warren moved his hand to her thigh, enjoying the feel of the satin. 'Champagne?' he asked as he nibbled on her earlobe. She nodded but didn't trust herself to speak. Alex sipped her drink as Warren's hands continued to explore her body. A small moan escaped her lips, causing him to grab her free hand and place it onto his hard cock. He undid the clasp at the back of her halter strap and slowly peeled down the front of her dress revealing eager nipples awaiting his touch. Willingly he obliged, covering them with his hot, wet mouth. Alex put her glass down and focused on undoing the buttons on his shirt. His chest was tanned and smooth, the sexiest she'd ever laid eyes on. She ran her fingers down his chiseled body, while he was working wonders with his hands and mouth. Her body was on fire.
She wanted more, but just then the car came to a stop and the engine died. Warren pulled up Alex's top and refastened the clasp. Alexia took Warren's hand and followed him up the steps of a white marble entre way. Once inside his master bedroom they were got undressed ready for the hot tub. Suddenly Alex started to feel lite headed, she'd lost count of how many glasses of champagne she'd consumed. She began doubting her experienced was she enough for Mr. Millions.
'Alex honey are you going to join me or am I going to enjoy this candlelit spa myself?' he teased, touching himself. ' 'Not while I'm here.' she retorted bravely. Alex stopped as she entered the door. There were candles around the room, making the light dance off the mirrored tiles. White rose petals floating and tumbling in the jets. The smell of rose and vanilla invaded her sense. Alex stood there speechless, until she remembered she was naked. So, she quickly got into the water.
Warren moved closer to her and started to massage her back and shoulders till he felt her relax. She let out a tiny moan of pleasure as he moved down her backside. He began to caress her with more enthusiasm, and she could feel his arousal growing along with her need. She pushed her bottom back into his erection, causing him to grab her and hold her body still, hard against himself. He then slides one of his hands up her thigh and parts her legs, running his fingers between them to find the sweet spot hidden beneath. Warren expertly massaged her clit till she was begging him to stop and enter her, he readily agreed pushing her forward over the side of the spa. The coldness of the tiles on her breast took her by surprise, but at the same time intensifying her pleasure. He slowly pushed and stretched his way inside of her wet pussy and was rewarded with sounds of pleasure. Alex was extra sensitive because she had already climaxed. Each time he pulled out and plunged back in, her moaning was getting louder and louder. Alex's noises were so hot, and she was clenching him so tight, he could hardly control himself. She let the words 'harder, please?' escape her lips, and he wasn't about to argue. He quickened the pace, and she pushed back into him, driving him crazy till he finished deep inside her. Alex was exhausted.
Warren lifted her out of the hot tub, placed her on a bench. Patted her dry and carried her to his bed. He had a great night despite Barts attempt to sabotage it. He would deal with him tomorrow.
When Alex woke up the following morning, she was alone and naked with a throbbing headache in a strange room. After a quick shower, she put on a robe. Then walked down the stairs to find Warren. Stopping when she overhears raised voices having a heated discussion. Alex gets a little closer, listening. 'Dad, Bart doesn't take the business seriously. He's always late, leaves whenever he sees fit, and has three times more sick days than other employees. I can run the company alone. I have been.' Ranted Warren as he paced back and forth in the dining room. Feeling rude Alex continued on looking for the kitchen and hopefully something for her head.
'Spill Alex, and don't leave anything out?' Pepper sat perched on the edge of Alexia's desk. 'It was mind-blowing Pepper, the food, the people, the dresses, and oh my gosh. Pepper the SEX! Then on Sunday, we had breakfast on the balcony, followed by more sex, a steamy shower and you guessed it, more sex. I didn't want to leave.' Alexia said barely remembering to breath between sentences.
Alexia heard someone clear their throat and looked up to see her boyfriend. 'Warren, what a lovely surprise. How can I help you?' She knew how she wanted to help him because just his presence was turning her on. Warren smile revealed his sexy dimples, and teased, 'Can't a man come to surprise his women and take her out for lunch?'
Blushing, Alex grinned like a schoolgirl and replied, 'Of course you can. Pepper, I'll be back soon.'
Looking outside for Warren's car Alexia was confused when it wasn't there. Noticing, he laughed. Lacing his fingers through hers, he leads her towards the rose garden three blocks away. As they arrived, she could see an area set up for them. There was a table with an umbrella and a waiter. Warren pulled out a chair for her, then sat down. He signaled for the man to start serving the dishes. He wheeled over the silver trolley and placed the three plates on the table. The first cover was removed, revealing mushroom risotto, followed by filled lobster tails and cannelloni stuffed with spinach and ricotta. Warren served some of each dish onto their plates and poured a glass of don Perignon rose champagne. Alex's taste buds were dancing. Everything was exquisite. Looking up from her meal she froze as she noticed Warren bent down on one knee.
'Alexia Lucas. I know we've only known each other for two weeks. But I'm a man who knows what I want, and I want you as my wife. So, Alexia, will you marry me and be Miss Alexia Hemmington?' He asked looking nervous for the first time.
Warren waited, but Alexia still didn't answer and just sat there staring at him. He knew it was sudden, but it's what he had to do. 'You can think about it if you like, here take the ring?' She looked down quickly.
She hadn't even noticed the ring, 'Wow. Warren, that's too much. Everything is too much. It's all happening so fast!" She got up from the table and turned to walk away.
'Alex?' she looked over her shoulder at Warren. 'Can you come over for dinner so we can talk, please?' She nodded. 'I'll send a car to collect you at six.' Alexia turned and left.
As Alex walked into work the following morning, she still wasn't sure if she'd made the right decision. Still, she was having trouble trying to remove the goofy smile from her face. And the giant princess cut diamond was a plus. Alex couldn't stop looking at it. Pepper almost crushed the air out of her when she told her about her engagement. She was happier than Alexia, well almost. Though even Pepper agreed that it was a little crazy but was still happy for her friend if not a little envious.
Tonight, Warren would be telling his parents about the engagement. And as soon as the pre-nuptial agreement had been finalized by his lawyers, he would have a quick wedding. He arrived at Alex's at seven-thirty. This time Warren was driving there himself in his grey, Maserati Ghibli. They travelled in silence to his parent's house. Alex was highly nervous. How would they feel about their son marrying someone he'd just met? Would they think she was just after his money? Warren broke the silence, 'Are you okay, babe?'
'I'm nervous, to say the least. Warren what if they think I'm after your money?' Alex asked.
'I asked you. It was my idea. They know I'm not stupid. Just relax.' reassured Warren.
Surprisingly Warren's parents took the news well, almost like they expected it. On the other hand, Bart seemed furious and left right away, dragging a pouting Isla with him. They all drank to celebrate the pending nuptials. Both Warren and Alex drank too much and had to get a car to take them back to Warren's house. Alexia took this opportunity to pleasure him on the way back to his place. After she finished, Warren placed both hands on either side of her face looked her in the eyes and asked her to move in with him? His eyes pleaded with Alex. She giggled and nodded 'yes.'
'Good. We will send someone for your belongings tomorrow.' He said, pleased with the outcome.
Alex and Warrens had been living together for two days. She still couldn't believe she lived in a million-dollar condo. It was so cold and empty, though. But Warren was letting her, and Pepper have the day off to go shopping tomorrow. There were some perks to dating your boss Mr. Millions, Alexia thought laughing would that make her Mrs. Millions. That thought made her laugh out loud. 'What's so funny, Miss Lucas?' Warren walked up behind her, causing her to jump. 'Sorry, Honey, didn't mean to scare you.' Warren laughed. 'Well Pepper, and I have this nickname for you,' Alexia admitted.
Warren raised his eyebrows, 'Oh really, do you now. Please do share?' Warren teased, poking her in the ribs gently.
'Hey, stop that. Fine, I'll tell you. There's two, Mr. Billboard.' Alex admitted. Warren let out a roar of laughter. 'And Mr. Millions.' Alex finished. 'So, what was so funny about that?' Warren queried.
Alexia admitted shyly, 'I was just wondering if people would start referring to me as Mrs. Millions' She felt her cheeks growing warm.
Warren ruffled her hair and kissed the tip of her nose. 'I'd meant to talk to you about that.' He walked to the kitchen buffet and picked up a large envelope. 'There's no easy way to bring this up, but - '
Alexia held up het hand to silence him and interrupted, 'If that is a prenup, there is no need for a big speech. I believe it's the right thing to do.' Alex smiled and took the documents from him, sitting down to sign them.
Warren was a little surprised but mainly impressed by her attitude. 'So, how do you feel about getting married right away?' Warren asked cautiously.
'How soon are we talking, Mr. Billboard?" she teased.
Alex couldn't believe she was on a private plane, on their way to Las Vegas. Was she crazy? Here I come, Mrs. Hemmington.
Ring, ring, ring.
'Tailored to Perfection, Pepper speaking. How may I assist you?'
'Hello Pepper, this is Bart Hemmington. May I speak with my sister-in-law, Mrs. Alexia Hemmington?'
'You mean soon to be...' Pepper corrected.
"No, they're already wed. Is Alex in, please? " Bart demanded, getting impatient. Pepper apologized and placed the call through.
'Yes, Pepper?' Alexia answered.
'Your brother-in-law is on line one, Mrs. Hemmington.' Pepper snapped harshly. Then the line transferred.
'Shit', Alexia mumbled under her breathe. 'Hi, Bart, how lovely to hear from you. What can I do for you today?'
Pepper couldn't believe that Alex hadn't told her she'd gotten married. She was her best friend, or so she thought!
'THUMP'
A loud bang came from upstairs Pepper ran into Alex's office. She was sitting on the floor in the corner, staring at her feet. At the same time, tears slide silently down her cheeks.
'Aw. Alex, honey, I'm not mad at you, a little upset you didn't confide in me thou. Please don't cry, Alex. Come hug peppermint.' Pepper sat down next to her best friend and placed an arm around her, pulling her in close.
'My marriage is a sham, Pepper. Warren doesn't love me.' her tears falling with a vengeance now. 'How could I be so stupid? How could I think a hot millionaire could love me? Why didn't I figure it out? I mean, we only met a month ago, and I was going to drop everything for him so that he could have his family business all to himself. Who does that!" Alex's sobbing was inconsolable now. Pepper squeezed her extra tight and passed her tissue from her desk.
'We can't let him get away we this. He can't treat people this way just because he has money. Especially my best friend.' Pepper was pissed at him and annoyed at herself for not being more questioning about her friend's situation.
Tonight was Barts twenty-seventh, 'Birthday Bash Extravaganza.' Warren wasn't looking forward to it, but not attending wasn't an option. Appearances are vital to the business and his family. He must admit thou Bart had gotten over his anger quickly, considering that he had been removed from the family business. On the other hand, Alex was very excited about tonight's event, probably because her best friend Pepper was accompanying them. Bring on the scotch, Warren thought. The ballroom at the Hemmington Hotel was decorated tastefully in black and silver. There were champagne towers, chocolate and cheese fountains, with an array of dipping canapes, a seven-tier cake dusted in real silver dust and a bar that stretched the entire length of the ballroom. There was a live band and a dance area set up.
Over two hundred well-dressed guesses started to fill the venue, either heading for the bar or dance floor. Pepper and Alex headed straight to the dance floor after they got a drink, but they left Warren at the bar, and it didn't look like he intended to move from there.
Half an hour after the party had started, Bart and Isla made a grand entrance. Warren still hadn't moved from the bar an hour and a half into the night and was feeling pretty good and a little drunk.
He turned as he felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to face the woman he was in love with and always would be. 'Tammy, what are you doing here?' he exclaimed.
'I wouldn't miss it for the world, honey. I knew you'd be here.' Tammy said, licking her lips. Then she held out her hand for Warren. Looking around he laced his fingers through hers and followed her back towards the rooms. Warren had wanted this for so long. He looked around nervously, making sure Alex and Pepper weren't looking. They were busy at the chocolate fountain.
Alex dragged Pepper away from the chocolate to get a drink at the bar. The girls were surprised to see Bart wasn't there or anywhere on the floor.
Pepper joked. 'Warren's been kidnapped.'
'He's probable in the toilet.' Alexia pointed out.
'Excuse me ladies, are you talking about Warren Hemmington?' the bartender interrupted.
Pepper replied, 'Yes, we are. Have you seen him?' 'I think he went upstairs with his new wife.' he said.
Alexia choked on her champagne while Pepper swore under her breath. "I know, shocking right?' the bartender continued. 'Who knew he was married.'
Alexia snapped, 'I did, because I'm his wife. which way did they go?'
His eyes widened. 'Um, ah, towards the elevators. Sorry.' the bartender apologized. Alex and Pepper started looking for Bart. Ten minutes later, they found him and passed on what the bartender had told them. Bart headed straight for the front desk. 'What room is Tammy Solant checked in to?' The clerk looked from Bart to the ladies. 'Now, Shaun, I don't have all night?' Bart demanded. Shaun quickly passed a spare card for room seven-zero-four. Bart snatched it and quickly headed to the elevators with the two girls close behind.
Alex's heart was pounding. This couldn't be happening. The elevator was taking forever to get to the seventh floor. Would they be too late?
'Ding'
The doors opened. The ladies followed Bart to the right, two doors down. Hanging from the door was a 'Do not disturb sign'. Bart opened the door quietly, Alex tried to stay in the hallway, but Pepper pulled her into the sitting room. The room was dark with no sign of life, but the light shone along the short hallway that led to the bathroom.
'Oh Warren, yes, yes. Fuck me harder.' Tammy moaned. Suddenly, filled with rage, Alex stormed past everyone and towards the bathroom. She was holding her phone and pressed record as she marched through the bathroom door. 'Hello, husband.' She said in the sweetest voice she could muster. 'I want a divorce, and since your having relations with this lady, I believe that means our prenup is void, am I right, sweetie?'
Warren froze, staring at his wife, mouth agape. He'd underestimated her. Bart then walked into the bathroom. 'Good job Tammy. The money is already in your bank account. Feel free to check before you leave.' Bart said happily. Warren still hadn't moved. Had his younger brother just outsmarted him? Bart turned and left.
Warren looked at Tammy. 'You did this for money?' Tammy just shrugged as she stepped out of the bathtub and grabbed a robe.
'I could have given you all the money you wanted, Tammy!' [Date]
'Sorry, Warren, I don't want to be with you.' Tammy retorted as she left Warren alone in the bathroom.
Pepper was so excited. 'Oh my gosh, Alex, I can't believe you went through with it. How did you get Bart and Tammy to agree to go along with your plan?"
'Shh, not so loud, Pepper. Plus, it wasn't that hard. He may be rich and powerful, but if you step on everyone, you're going to get smacked down. Anyway, enough about my soon to be ex-husband. I was thinking we open a store of our own.' Pepper's eyes lit up, and she looped her arm into Alex's, and they walked outside to hail a taxi.