Chasing Imperfection (Chasing 2)

Why didn’t he take my belongings to the nearest trash bin and swept his apartment clean of me?

He wanted me back….even if I declined his proposal, he still wanted me back. Even then, he just knew. He knew what he wanted and he wanted me with him.

There was a soft knock and he called out from the other side of the room. “Hey—I’ll be waiting in the car downstairs. I need to make a few calls. No need to hurry—just letting you know where I’ll be.”

“I’ll be ready in five minutes,” I called out to him.

“Okay—I’ll just be downstairs.”

I dressed casually with dark jeans, black long-sleeved cotton shirt and black pointed boots. I pulled my long bright orange pashmina scarf that I purchased from Florence on a weekend trip with Chad and loosely snaked it on my neck. I pulled my damp hair in a haphazard bun. I applied dark brown eye-liner on the rims of my puffy eyes and a coat of mascara. A couple swipes of peach colored gloss and I was set. Grabbing my black tote, I rummaged for my Aviator shades and walked over to the lift. I bought us the same shades because I knew they would make Blake look sexy as hell—and they did. I purchased them six months ago—when were simply just friends.

I pushed the building door open and got smacked by the chilly blast of air. Blake was in his car, his black Seventy-seven Vanquish, talking animatedly on his phone. He had his aviator shades on too and he looked stunning.

I stood there mesmerized and drank the sight of him. When finally saw me—he smiled, giving me that gorgeous, arresting signature smile of his. He got out of the car and opened the door for me. He was still on the phone and he spoke in fluid Italian. Boy, I wanted to drown in that sexy musical drawl.

I honestly don’t think anyone can compare to him. He’s a man of force and the world was his oyster. He’s going to become bigger and larger than life. Someday he will be a great husband and father to his children. The thought was depressing but it was the truth. One thing I knew about him is that once he commits himself into something, he gave it his all. When he finally chooses to marry, his wife is going to be one very lucky woman.

He got in the car and still spoke on the phone. We weaved through the London traffic with fluidity. London traffic can be awful especially in the morning. The whole thing about driving on the other side of the road confused the hell out of me—that’s why driving here is not the wisest idea. Even Kyle can’t be bothered driving here. Back in LA, he was obsessed with his silver Lamborghini Roadster and wouldn’t let anyone drive it.

Kyle. I have yet to call him today and find out how he was. Blake did a number on him. The poor thing didn’t see it coming. I didn’t see it coming. When Blake sauntered in the room, he looked like his usual composed self—but God, he was like a burning furnace with rage and I didn’t even notice it. How does he do that? Mask his emotions without showing much to those around him? I guess it’s one of those things that his granddad taught him. It comes very handy when it comes to business dealings. But when it comes to personal relationships—it can be very daunting. It’s quite overwhelming really if you think about it.

I heard him say “Ba bene, Zia. Ciao,” and end the call.

“That was my Aunt Seraphina in Rome, she said my uncle wants me to visit again. I spoke briefly with him and he sounded like he’s getting back on his feet.”

“What happened to him?”

“He had a heart attack. I never mentioned it to you?” No. You didn’t because you were stuck to Ivanna’s side and simply ignored me.

“No, you never did.” I gave him a quick glance.

He grabbed my hand, kissed it and held it on his thigh.

We were right around Wigmore Street and quite close to my school. “What time do you want me to pick you up?” he asked.

“In three hours?” I bit my lip as I looked at him. His thumb was making slow rhythmic circles on my palm. He had a habit of doing this and it never failed to make me so aware of him.

“Splendid. I’ll be out here when you come out cara mia.” My beloved.

“Okay, see you then Blake. Thanks for dropping me off.” I gave him a quick smile before letting myself out of the car.

This is going to be beyond weird…but I must peddle forward.

Walking towards my Fashion Marketing class, Aloy came up next to me and greeted me cheerily. “What’s up gal? You don’t look ready for class.” She’s a pretty Asian with an unusual nickname. Yep, it isn’t her real name (it’s Ana) but she was nicknamed that. I do think Aloy suits her better. It’s unique and peculiar like the woman herself. I met her during our class last semester and we hung out a few times during lunch in between classes.

“Yeah, well last night was eventful to say the least. How have you been?” I eyed her outfit, she always has a great funky ensemble and I loved it. Sometimes I get all into it but most days I just keep it safe like today. The only color I have is the bright orange scarf amongst all the black.

“I’m superb dahling! My sister is visiting me from Boston and she’s arriving tonight. Want to hang out with us? We might need another sidekick to get some male attention. My sister is the shy type, sadly.”

This is what I like about her, she’s straightforward. I smiled, “I would love to meet your sister but no can do babe. My friend is going to be discharged from the hospital tomorrow so that will be taking up most of my time for the next few days.”

Aloy pouted. “Oh, bummer! Do text me if you change your mind then.”

“Definitely will,” I replied as we entered class. The class was three hours and I only have it once a week, thank goodness. I hate three hour classes and I tend to daydream when it gets boring.

Exactly an hour and half after the class started, our teacher, Mrs. Luton called a recess for thirty minutes.

“I’m going to Starbucks, want to join me?” I asked Aloy who was diligently tapping away on her phone. That thing kept vibrating the entire time during class.

“Heck yes! I need a caffeine fix.”

“So you’ll have more energy for texting the next hour? Who are you talking to?” We’re walking out on the damp street. I suppose it rained while we were inside the building. I love London during cold rainy months. It’s part of its charm and allure.

“Bass, the guy I met over the weekend. It’s still in its early stages. Nothing major…you know…although he’s cute…I don’t know yet.” She was blushing and I found that endearing. She acted with total nonchalance but she was clearly more than interested in him.