Chapter 46: Threats & Opportunities

“Are you ready to continue this battle in court?” Arthur repeated threateningly. I gazed at the serious expression that he had on his face. His eyebrows were furrowed as he glared at the phone, waiting expectantly for his answer. “Kevin?” Arthur’s voice was low, harsh, and almost demanding. Arthur’s eyes were completely locked on it, the thought of him being at the other side of the line already made Arthur grimace in disgust. I leaned in closer in anticipation.

All we could hear was silence from the other side of the line.

The silence that filled my room made my blood as cold as the air that crept through my open window. Bereft of any wind the leaves outside hung limp until they fell of their own accord, there was no whispering noise or rustling. It was as if nature decided to stay silent as well, waiting expectantly for Kevin’s response.

“Kevin?” It was my turn to call his attention. Is he even listening? I bit my lower lip anxiously. The silence has gnawed at my insides. The silence was like a gaping void, needing to be filled with sounds, words - or anything really. Will he agree to this or not? His possible response to this drove me crazy.

“Fine.” Kevin finally responded reluctantly, his voice was soft and weak and it almost came out as a whisper. “You win.” He said with a sigh as my eyes widened in surprise. I felt a sudden flare of joy as my heart leaped with happiness. I could hardly contain my happiness as a wide grin formed my lips.

I couldn’t believe it.

We won.

“We don’t need to take this to court. I will stop.” And with that, he hung up. I sat there in shock, my eyes and mouth were wide in a stunned surprise. It was almost like I was paralyzed with happiness.

After a year of succumbing to his abuse and threats, I finally broke free from the chains he had created for me. I sat back and let the happiness soak right into my bones while a smile was eternally stained upon my lips. I closed my eyes and savoured the moment. For the first time in forever my body and mind relaxed. At that moment, I felt like a heavy load was lifted off my shoulders. I made it through all of this alive, I was a winner and a survivor.

“We did it!” Arthur exclaimed happily as he pulled me in a tight hug. His embrace was warm, and his big, strong arms seemed very protective when wrapped around my petite body. The world around me melted away as I squeezed him back, not wanting the moment to end.

I felt tears drop from my eyes one by one, leaving damp evidence on Arthur’s t-shirt but the proof was written all over my face; crying was hard to hide. He simply hugged me tighter as I buried my face onto his shirt. I was just so overwhelmed with happiness that I didn’t know how to properly contain my feelings anymore.

Had I ever been happier in my life?

Probably not, but now that I am in Arthur’s arms, I know that more happiness in my life will come.

I pulled away and held his face. His eyes are so different in moments like these, softer than I knew eyes could be. The professional man I once knew in Williams, Inc. is gone and instead it is the eyes of one who loves deeply. If it were anyone else I would drop my gaze, but with him I'm drawn in closer, always wanting more.

“It’s finally over.” He whispers happily and I just nod, taking in every moment for my memory and savoring the victory that we’ve struggled desperately to achieve. I leaned in and gently pressed my lips against his forehead.

It was my turn to do this gesture. In all the world there isn't another like him, or me for that matter; we are two souls who feel like once upon another reality we were soul mates, eternal flames.

“We should celebrate.” Arthur suggested, grinning widely. “My treat.” He added excitedly. I nodded at him as we walked hand in hand to his car.

“So where are you taking me?” I asked him, squinting my eyes at him teasingly. He just laughed at me and planted a kiss on my forehead.

“You’ll see.” He winked at me as he opened the door’s car. I’m not that fond of surprises but I know I can trust Arthur.

On our way to the restaurant, I couldn't help but feel satisfied. I hummed quietly as I enjoyed the car ride. I’m so glad it’s already over.

Arthur pulled up into a familiar restaurant. “Surprise!” Arthur’s enthusiastic voice filled the car. It was the restaurant where we both confessed to each other. It brought a smile to my face as memories of that day suddenly came flooding.

I remember the first time I went through these doors. I was so nervous at that time because I had decided to reject Arthur. However, things don’t always turn out the way you think it would. Fast forward a couple of months later, I am back here again with the love of my life. Walking hand in hand with Arthur here sure feels different.

We followed closely the waiter in charge. As he handed out the menu to us, he mentioned their best-seller. “What do you want?” Arthur asked as he flipped through the pages. I also did the same but I couldn’t pick between the shrimp puttanesca and the creamy salmon chowder.

“How about you?” I asked him as I tried to make up my mind between the two.

“Maybe, I’ll have the Grilled Snapper with Mango Salsa.” He told the waiter. I decided to order the shrimp puttanesca instead. As the waiter excused himself, Arthur held my hand. “I’m so glad to have a date with the most beautiful woman in the room.” He smirked. We’ve been together for a couple of months now and I still can’t get used to this. I can feel my face heating up with his remark. I tried to hide my face but he abruptly held my hand as if to stop me. “I already told you not to hide your pretty face.” His smooth retort made the butterflies inside my stomach grow wild.

“Oh stop it will you.” I told him while fanning myself to lessen the redness of my face. He laughed at my immediate reaction.

As the food arrived, we chatted about various topics. We talked about anything under the sun. Then I asked him about the company. His gaze looked serious once I popped the question.

“I have something to tell you.” His eyes looked unsure. What could it be?

“What is it?” I asked him as curiosity was evident in the tone of my voice.

“I have decided to expand my business.” My eyes widened in surprise with his statement. “I am planning on opening Williams Inc.’s very first restaurant.” His eyes held a glint of excitement as he announced this to me. A wide smile crept to my lips as pride swelled up inside of me. Arthur is truly amazing.

“That’s great to hear!” I said happily, making him smirk as well, pleased with the reaction that I made. “But how about the events’ coordination?” I asked curiously.

“Well, I’m planning on discussing with the board members who would be the next head of the events’ coordination since I’ll be busier overseeing the upcoming business venture.” He retorted seriously as he ran a hand through his hair.

I reached out to grab his hand and gripped it tightly. “I’ll always support you, Arthur.” I voiced out, making him smile in appreciation.

We both enjoyed the night talking about our plans for the future. He shared with me the reason why he wanted to expand his company. It made me feel hopeful for our bright tomorrow.

Things are looking good for both of us.