CHAPTER 59

Blake

Focusing on my business and personal relationships, in that order, was refreshing.

Jordan stuck her head into my office. “Busy?”

Yeah, right. She asked as though I was supposed to tell my boss yes. “Come in.”

She sat on the arm of the chair directly in front of me. “What are your goals for corporate?”

I knew the answer. In my profession I always had a goal. Once I achieved it, I’d set another. Wasn’t sure why she’d asked? Some folk wanted to test you. Find out if your objective was to take their position.

“First, I’d like to learn all I can about my job. I’ve noticed there isn’t an expert consultant in-house who can advise department heads on cross-functional crisis management. I’d like to master the major functions of other positions.”

I stopped there. Jordan was frowning like she’d never considered that.

“Blake, your input over the two weeks you’ve been here has been refreshing. I’ll take your aspirations under consideration. Why don’t you wrap up early. Enjoy your weekend. I’ll see you Monday morning.”

“Thanks,” I said, shutting down my computer.

I secured my laptop in my desk drawer. I could check my work e-mail account on my cell. There was nothing I needed from my corporate condo. I didn’t wait for Bing’s driver. I got in my Benz and headed straight to the airport, to take the next available flight to Atlanta to see my man.

I texted Bing, Got off early. On my way to Hartsfield.

His response, Great! We can depart sooner. Send me your flight information. Make sure you have your passport.

I was getting used to this. Dating this man, my passport stayed packed. I called the airline, forwarded Bing my details.

I was expecting Bing to meet me at baggage claim on the Delta side. He was at the gate with a lavender rose in hand.

“How was your flight?”

“Not nearly as amazing as you.”

“You ready for an adventure?” he asked.

Smiling, I thought about the four orgasms he’d given me. Jokingly, I told him, “The question this time is, are you ready.”

“This weekend will really be a surprise,” he said. “Hurry, we have to make it through customs so we don’t miss our flight.”

Excited, I told my guy, “I love you.”

I really did. The way he packed my bags, planned our trip; for once in a relationship I always expected good things. Racing to take the train to get to our terminal, we dashed to our gate, I wished I’d worn flats. Next time I’d pack a pair in my purse.

He held my hand the entire time. That was another thing I appreciated about Bing. He never left me behind. Arriving at our gate the sign read, LONDON.

“You’re taking me to see the crown jewels?”

“The crown jewels do not compare. I’m taking you to a groundbreaking ceremony and gala. My assistant got you evening attire that even the queen would approve of. Since you are officially my woman, nothing is too good for you. And you may as well see what I truly do for a living.”

When first-class passengers were called, we boarded. I group texted my daughters and Brandon, Going to London for the weekend with Bing.

Brandon replied, My gaydar was way off on that one, honey. Buy me something and bring me back a tall handsome man with an English accent.

Mercedes wanted to know all my flight information.

Devereaux asked, Where are you now?

Alexis responded, I’m happy for you!

Sandara sent lots of those Emoji characters followed by, I’ll be there tomorrow. Have a runway show.

I was proud of each of them. They’d continued to be one another’s support. Whatever was happening in their relationships, I did not want the details for at least another two weeks, especially Alexis’s.

Having basic information was great. I stared out the window.

Mercedes and Benjamin were working on their marriage. Devereaux had put Phoenix out, or should I say hadn’t let him back in. I didn’t know why and that was okay. Alexis had collected lots of money and material possessions. That should make her ecstatic. Lunch in London with Sandara would be lovely.

I was proud of them all. My girls were grown. I’d done my best.

“The world can wait.”

I froze. Slowly, I turned to face him.

Bing repeated, “The world can wait.” Then he kissed me.

Those were the exact words Spencer had spoken to me on our first date. I was in a better space with Bing.

I held the side of my man’s cheek, pressed my lips to his. “You’re right. This is our time, not my time.”

Champagne, caviar, jumbo shrimp, and scallops. I appreciated this meal more than I looked forward to the foie gras Bing raved about in Paris.

Descending from the clouds into Heathrow, I knew I shouldn’t have asked, “Why me?”

“Blake, I have more money than I can spend in my lifetime. I want to create memories with you because you make me happy. I love you too.”

I felt as though my heart stopped beating. Could I allow myself to be vulnerable?

If ever there was a moment for me to fall in love, this was it. I had no reason to give myself to any other man.

I looked into Bing’s eyes and told him the truth.

“I am in love with you.”