29 To get the edge off

The dinner was at the restaurant located in a secluded area of the hotel. We were still buzzing from all the spoiling we just had when we reached our table. James, already seated at the table, was perusing the menu in front of him. He quickly stood up upon seeing us approached and helped us in our seats.

As expected, the meal was superb. We talked about the wedding plans, but James and Gemma could not stop arguing, but they made sure that I was involved with the discussion. Mainly, I mediated between them.

A movement on my right caught my eye. A couple was occupying the table beside us. I regretted glancing in their direction. Right in front of me was no other than Nathan. He was assisting his date on her chair when I noticed that he was looking directly at me.

I swung my eyes away, not wanting to have anything to do with him. I will not let him ruin my night. It was Gemma and James' night, and I would put my full attention on them.

Nathan turned to greet James, shaking his hand, and politely greeted Gemma and me. He introduced his date, which in turn gave us a sweet smile before settling in the chair opposite her.

It was very unsettling since I could feel my body warming up to the knowledge that he was just a few feet away from me, near enough that I could actually smell his cologne and almost hear their conversation. The timbre of his voice as he spoke reminded me of the other time we were together. I would bet that he chose that table so that he could torment me, but I would never let him succeed.

"Hey, Scarlet." Gemma reached for my hand to tap me. I seemed to be lost in my thoughts that I zoned out.

"Sorry, what?" Now, I was quite pissed with myself for getting distracted. I should not be thinking about him when he was on a hot date. Fine, I had no business thinking of him at all. I focused my attention on the happy couple, not wanting anything to do with the man who might be listening and observing my every move.

We laughed and teased around the wedding plans and Gemma's pregnancy. "Will you be my maid of honor?" Gemma was saying.

"Of course, it would be my honor." I merrily accepted that role in her life. I would do anything to make Gemma happy.

"And another thing, we decided to make you our child's godmother." James was the one to ask since he was the one who insisted that I was the better choice compared to her sister, who was still very young and immature.

"Are you sure? I am more than overwhelmed by the trust you are giving me, but as your friend, I will be more than happy to accept it." Nothing could make me happier than to be a part of their child's future. I was so touched that they would consider me for such an honor, and I was more than delighted to accept the responsibility.

They also invited Daniel to this dinner since he was the best man as James' best friend. He would also take on the role of the godfather. It was just unfortunate that he could not make it since he was not available tonight. I was also glad that Daniel would be part of this.

"Daniel was very pleased to learn that you will be his partner in the ceremonies. You two are perfect for each other." Gemma beamed as if it was the best gift she ever received.

I squeezed her hand and smiled at James. "I am very pleased that Daniel and I will be part of the most important moment in your lives," I said happily, making sure that Nathan heard every word I was saying.

This time I felt someone standing close behind me. I did not need to look to know who it could be. "I overheard your conversation. I believe congratulations are in order," Nathan said. I felt the goosebumps on my skin from his nearness. I hated that my body reacted like this whenever I sensed him near.

James and Nathan exchanged pleasantries. His presence behind me was not a coincidence, but I did not want to be a part of whatever game he was planning. I maintained my silence, refusing to participate in their exchange while his date waited patiently at their table.

"Let this be my treat as an advance wedding gift." He said as he left to get back to his date and ushered her out the door. I tried not to look, but I eventually found myself staring at his retreating back with his hands placed just above her waist, guiding her towards the direction of the elevators.

I heard Gemma laughed at something James said, I immediately returned my attention to them, glad that Gemma did not notice anything unusual. After our dessert, I made some alibi about being so tired of all the activities and excitement that I just wanted to lay down and sleep it off in my room.

The way Gemma's eyes glittered told me that I made the right choice. They wanted to be alone too. I walked out of the lift when it stopped at my floor while they continued up to theirs. As soon as I was alone in my room, I doubted that I would be sleeping anytime soon.

In certain times, silence had become my enemy. Tonight was no exception. Staring at the four corners of my lovely room only conjured up memories of a past I already decided to forget. Closing my eyes was worse. I could see those blue eyes taunting me to dare look away. If I stayed a little longer, I might get lost in those blue orbs, which should never happen.

Therefore, I decided to go down to the bar instead. I just needed to get the edge off.

I grabbed my bag and headed out.