Chapter Eighteen

                                    

                                          
Jacqueline and her party arrived early the next Monday at Elijah's home. Elijah and his family received them warmly, as was customary. Jacqueline explained that while their family home was being renovated, she would like to be their guest for the week on a short holiday with her mother and of course Elijah's parents agreed. It took every ounce of Elijah's self-control not scoff in disgust.
                          
"Oh, this will be such a wonderful little getaway. This is a great way to get to know you all better and of course to have some time away from the city." Jacqueline smiled at Elijah's parents, who seemed to be taking it all in stride. Elijah's sister Charlotte was not quite as pleased, she screwed her lips and grunted, and made off-handed comments, as often as she could at Jacqueline's remarks.
                          
The whole morning Elijah and his father sat with the women discussing wedding plans. Of course, the loudest voices in the discussion belonged to Jacqueline and her mother Elisa. Elijah was glad that he sent Ayo ahead of him to the office. He was sure that Thomas would put her to good use. It seems that he would spend his day bored to tears.
                          
Meanwhile, at the office, both Ayo and Thomas worked quietly and diligently on their assignments. Every so often Thomas would check on Ayo's progress and she performed wonderfully.
                          
"Ayo you are far better than I gave you credit for. You are truly an asset. How did you become so bright?" He asked out of curiosity, he stood over her reviewing her work. The dark blue dress she wore just happened to be of a cut that allowed one to almost see the entire bosom from the right angle. He felt his breeches tightening.
                          
"I was taught in my homeland. It is strange, I never thought these things would come into any use," she laughed and shook her head in delight.
                          
"Well, they certainly have now." He said and headed back to his desk. His resolve to keep his distance was wearing thin. Ayo was amazing; every minute he spent alone with her was torture. Her coy smiles and exuberant laughter was beguiling. She came around to his desk, climbed the ladder behind him to retrieve a book from one of the higher shelves. Her soft lavender scent wafted around him filling his lungs.
                          
The ladder had been standing in precarious position slid, and Ayo began to free-fall. Thomas dashed quickly and caught her in his arms. He used his body to soften her fall. They hit the ground with a thud; Ayo straddled Thomas. They each stared breathlessly into the others' eyes, stunned after the fall.
                          
"Thank you," Ayo said. She noticed that Thomas held her close and had not released her. She tried to gently break his grasp.
                          
"You are welcome," He said. She looked flushed, nervous and irresistible. Suddenly he brought his lips to hers, she did not resist him. When he intensified the kiss, and groped at her backside, the realization of the situation sunk in, she pushed at him, angrily, until he let her go.
                          
"I am sorry Ayo. I didn't mean for that to happen." Thomas said helping her to feet. He really was sorry. Mostly disappointed that he had not been able to control his zealousness. She had seemed to enjoy it at first but was not ready to be pushed so far. Ayo was not overtly flirtatious but there were subtle hints. She tore her hands away from him and walked to the nearest open window. 
                          
Ayo was disgusted with Thomas, completely offended that he would assume she would welcome his advances. Yes, she found him handsome, fascinating and kind but not to the degree that she would give herself up to him. Her interest was captured elsewhere.
                          
He approached her and stood behind her. He spoke in hushed tones as he said, "What do you think will happen here, Ayo? Elijah will have you and then just as quickly rid himself of you. I assume you know Sara..." He paused for effect. "I have known him all his life. He is not a man who knows loyalty to just one woman. I would never do you such a cruelty Ayo. I would love you and take care of you. You would never have to worry again. At least think over what I am offering you."