Chapter 44

**Brad’s POV**

‘You’re not exactly the typical husband.’ The words swirled heavily in my mind and for once I regretted my previous mistresses. I didn’t want to be seen in such a light by Angela. I wanted to be more for her, to be somewhat closer to what she deserved. But I was too broken. I couldn’t give her what I don’t have so I will continue to give that which I can; passion and pleasure.

In some ways she was right. I was not the typical husband after all we would be parting soon enough and then I would be back to my old life; finding my pleasure where I can.

Then why was this...feeling corrupting me? I didn’t want her to think she wasn’t good enough, it was me. I am not equipped for anything serious and I felt guilty for any misconception she may harbour, she should know that I valued her more than any woman I dedicated my time to and I was certain that no one would come close to her value. I should tell her.

Shouldn’t I? But if I did that could stem even more misunderstandings. I couldn’t give her hope where there was none.

I found myself in front of Harvey’s room. I knocked and then entered. He sat at a table in the far corner of the room. He looked up when I came in.

I walked over and took a seat at the table. I rested my arms on the surface. I really didn’t know why I came here.

“You and mom had a fight?” Harvey requested nonchalantly. The sound of him referring to Angela as ‘mom’ seemed so natural.

I shook my head and ensured my features were devoid of emotion.

“She really cares about you, you know?” He started up the conversation again and I wasn’t sure if I wanted to indulge.

“It’s complicated,” I responded adapting a warning, a sign that this conversation was at an end. Of course, it was completely ignored.

“No, it’s not. She’s trying. Why is it so hard for you to try?” He questioned, his face steeling and I smiled. He reminded me so much of myself.

“You nervous?” I avoided his question and he shot me a dark look.

Sighing he replied. “Being paraded in front of strangers is not something I am particularly going to enjoy.” His tone was dry.

“And I am not going to say it gets easier either. But, it helps when you find your confidence and realize that what people think is relevant.” I guided. All my life that is what coached me, I didn’t care what people said and their stares and whispers were always ignored.

Harvey nodded and I rose from the seat. I patted him on the shoulder. “Time to go on down.” He rose slowly and followed me out of the room.

**Angela’s POV**

As much as I would hate to admit it, I adored the dress. I could only hope now that I could do it some semblance of justice. I clipped my hair and stared at my reflection. My hands slowly rose up and undid the bind. My hair cascaded down my shoulders in waves and the image pleased me. Maybe I should consider wearing my hair down more often.

I took a few more seconds to calm my nerves. A habit I adapted every time we had company. Brad was so comfortable in his circles I sometimes, actually all the time felt out of place.

I knew guests had already arrived but I was stalling. I drew in a deep breath and made my way down. I lingered at the staircase and contemplated running back to my room when I caught Brad’s eyes, he smiled at me and everyone in his company turned their attention to me.

Too late now.

I smiled lightly and descended the flight of stairs. From the moment I wandered into Brad’s circle, the doorbell sounded. I muttered a quick acknowledgment and stalked off towards the door.

As I passed several other circles I muttered my greetings until I reached the door. I pulled it open and instantly suppressed a squeal.

“You guys came!” Emilia, Anne, and Jaclyn engulfed me in a group. We were pretty corny for grown women but friendships were like that.

“Of course we did!” Anne piped in as we broke off the hug.

“Besides we thought you might need some time away from that arrogant husband of yours,” Jaclyn added, her voice laced with disdain.

They all knew about Brad and me and well...Rose. Yet they hated him the most. I shot a quick glance at Emilia and she gave a confirming stare. She hadn’t told them that Brad and I were in a semi-relationship. Which means, I have to tell them and it would not be the easiest thing to do.

Emilia was more open-minded, she understood the repercussions yet was willing for it to play out. Yet Jaclyn would be dead set against it due to the fact that Brad basically wronged me. Yet Anne would just be surprised. She wouldn’t have an opinion it was more of a ‘do what makes you happy’ sort of interaction.

So basically I was screwed. They all had my best interests but which one should I listen to?

NONE!

My conscious growled.

They want your best interest and will support YOUR decision if you are definite.

Of course my conscious was right, this time.

“I have to tell you guys something.” I looked at them both, casting an encouraging glance from Emilia.

“Before you tell us anything, I would love to know where you got that dress!” Jaclyn exclaimed.

“It suits you perfectly!” Anne interjected.

I stilled while they all stared at me for the answer to a harmless question. “I-I uh Brad go- bought it f-for me.” I stammered and they were shocked. Even Emilia.

“What?” They replied in unison.

“Hold up.” Anne raised a hand to silence Jaclyn and Emilia. “Since when does Brad buy you stuff?”

They all stared at me. Emilia adopting this ridiculously romantic look on her face, while Anne seemed shocked yet a bit amused and Jaclyn was...well a bit mortified.

“Well that’s what I was getting at, you see...”

“Eye’s don’t deceive me, but I do believe I see angels.” An amused voice drawled and I sighed in frustration. Boy did he have awesome timing!

Scott came into view from behind the girls. They spun around to see him giving them his most precious of smiles.

“Perhaps you’ve died and have been granted salvation.” Emilia countered light-heartedly. There was a time I rather thought they would be perfect for each other, but like myself, Emilia saw Scott as an ally.

“An excellent account for such beauty.” He replied while he hugged her. He stepped away to greet Anne and Jaclyn. He finally pushed his way to me and smiled.

“You look lovely, as always.” He bends and places a brotherly kiss on my forehead before leaning to embrace me. At my ear, he whispered. “There might be a slight problem.”

I locked gazes with him as he stepped away but he remained silent. Only then I realized I had kept them all outside. I ushered the girls in and was about to do the same with Scott when he stopped me.

He held my arm and captured my gaze, giving me a look that suggested he was trying to say something to me. Just then, like the time before, Rose walked up to the porch.

She stared at me boldly and gazed back at Scott. My heart thundered and echoed in my ear. I could hear the gushing of blood flowing through my veins. So this was the problem. Didn’t see have any shame?

Maybe I was just angry. What if Brad took one look at her and realized that what he wanted is not me?