A Family Affair
Marilyn McPherson
Smashwords Edition
Copyright © 2011 by Marilyn McPherson
Smashwords Edition License Notes
Thank you for downloading this free ebook. You are welcome to share it with your friends. This book may be reproduced, copied and distributed for non-commercial purposes, provided the book remains in its complete original form. If you enjoyed this book, please return to Smashwords.com to discover other works by this author. Thank you for your support.
Books by this author:
A Family Affair
A Family Affair - First Born
A Family Affair - Next of Kin
The Faithful Watcher
Lottie’s Patch
Stray
Note to Reader
Please note that this book is written in Australian English.
Marilyn McPherson
Smashwords Edition
Copyright © 2011 by Marilyn McPherson
Smashwords Edition License Notes
Thank you for downloading this free ebook. You are welcome to share it with your friends. This book may be reproduced, copied and distributed for non-commercial purposes, provided the book remains in its complete original form. If you enjoyed this book, please return to Smashwords.com to discover other works by this author. Thank you for your support.
Books by this author:
A Family Affair
A Family Affair - First Born
A Family Affair - Next of Kin
The Faithful Watcher
Lottie’s Patch
Stray
Note to Reader
Please note that this book is written in Australian English.
“I think you're going to cut off the circulation soon,” Ellen said jovially, trying to lighten the mood.
Tom let go. “Sorry”, he said, but did not move his body or eyes away from her.
The night so far had certainly been intense. Tom had brought her the largest bunch of flowers that she had ever seen when he arrived to pick her up. He had recommended to her and Chloe that the flowers be put into a vase, and Chloe had taken the flowers nodding, even though they both knew there were no vases to be found. Tom had glanced around their sparsely furnished apartment with a slight look of horror, but thankfully, he hadn't said anything.
Soon after, Tom whisked Ellen away in his black sportscar, which was easily the fastest car she had ever been in.
His property was amazing. It was the sort of home Ellen had only ever seen in magazines. Large iron gates guarded the entrance and old oak trees lined a winding driveway through perfectly manicured lawns and gardens to a three storey stone mansion. He obviously had a number of staff who worked there, and Ellen had been intimidated by Tom’s evident wealth.
She looked at him now, wanting to return to the evening's light-hearted moments, as when they had jokingly thrown flour and sauce at each other after making dinner. “You know, I'm getting kind of hungry. I think our pizza is probably ready by now”.
Tom remembered the pizza. “Oh no! I hope we haven't burnt it.” He raced over to the oven, grabbing some large blue oven mitts from the counter. “Smells good,” he said and lifted the hot pizza out. “And yes, it looks good too.”
“What can I do?” Ellen asked, standing up.
“Why don't you grab some plates and glasses?” Tom pointed towards one of the drawers in the island bench. “And the wine glasses are behind you. I've got the cutlery and a nice bottle of wine here. Why don’t we take our wine and pizza out to the balcony and enjoy the view?” Tom was already cutting the pizza into neat rectangle-shaped slices.
Ellen found three different plate sets in the drawer and chose two plates from a plain, stone coloured set. She chose short stemmed sturdy wine glasses from the shelf. “Okay, I'm ready to go here,” she announced.
“Follow me then,” Tom said as he led her out through the double kitchen doors, down a long hallway, through a lounge room and onto a large covered timber deck.
“Wow,” Ellen said as she took the view in. The city lights shone brightly through the misty rain and appeared to stretch for miles.
“I bought this place over ten years ago because of the view, and I still love it.”
“You don't get lonely living in this big house all by yourself?” Ellen asked.
“I keep busy. You know, working lots, spending time with my parents. Actually, Estella lives in the guest house that we passed on the way in, and she has a young child about eight years old. And I just adore him, I really do. Estella has worked here for nearly five years, and she and her son are almost like family to me now.” Tom paused and seemed thoughtful. “I guess I am lonely though, a little anyway.”
Ellen looked at him tenderly. He was very brave to admit something like that. Suddenly she shivered slightly.
Tom must have noticed, “Sorry, Ellen, let me put the gas heater on.” Tom stood up and fumbled around under the coffee table to retrieve a set of matches. “Watch this”. He walked over to the wall, and lit a pilot light. Suddenly, two large heaters ignited above them, lighting up the ceiling. “Give it a minute, and we'll be warm.”
Ellen felt warmer almost immediately as they started on their pizza. There was an awkward silence and Ellen smiled at Tom in response to it. “I don't think I'm a very good date,” she joked. “I don't seem to have much to talk about. I cause trouble with your mum.” Just as Ellen was talking, she dropped a large piece of tomato and cheese onto the timber decking. “And I drop food onto your deck,” she added, disappointed in herself for not displaying more lady-like qualities.
Tom winked at Ellen. “Well, I know something we should probably talk about at some point or another.” He chuckled, but waited a moment before continuing, “So.. exactly how old are you? I'm not doing something illegal here, am I?”
Ellen giggled. “I turn nineteen in about a month. What about you?”
Tom looked relieved. “Who me?” he asked incredulously, surprised that she had turned the question around onto him so quickly.
“Yeah you,” Ellen insisted, watching him intently.
He started to look a little uneasy. “Would you believe,” Tom said and paused briefly, “That I'm thirty years old?”
Ellen shook her head. “No”, she replied at once.
“Really?” Tom questioned her earnestly.
“No!” Ellen found herself giggling again.
“Well, then, how about thirty-five?”
“Yeah, I guess I'd believe that.” Ellen tried to sound as serious as she could before continuing, “Is that the truth? Because honesty is really important to me in a relationship!”
Tom picked up his glass of red and took a long sip. “Hmmm, honesty hey?” He seemed to be deep in thought for a moment. “Okay, well then, in all honesty, I'm thirty-eight, but on the inside, I don't feel a day over thirty-seven and a half,” he said jovially. “And that's what's really important!”
Ellen decided to change the subject because their age difference wasn't really of any great concern to her. “This pizza is really good,” she informed Tom, and went on, “Really good pizza in front of a really good view.” She took a sip of wine and sighed happily.
“And lucky me, I have a really good woman here to share it with,” Tom added with a cheeky grin.
Ellen looked embarrassed and replied cautiously, “You don't even know me, Tom. We only met earlier today you know. I don't understand how you can keep saying such nice things about me already.”
Amused by her statement, Tom continued eating and said, “I know that we only met this morning, and I promised myself, that I wouldn't say anything to scare you off. I guess I'm not doing too well on that count.”
Ellen didn't necessarily want him to stop saying such nice things, and tried to clarify a little. “It's just that I haven't met anyone like you before. I guess, the whole night has been surprising.”
“Surprising in a good way?”
“Yes, a very good way.”
“I knew there was something special about you the moment I first saw you. I don't know exactly what it is, but I know that I want you in my life. I feel as if I already know you. You definitely remind me of someone but I can't quite put my finger on who that is. Jake felt the same way when he saw you the other day.”
“He did?”
“Uh huh.”
“And while we're talking about Jake,” Ellen said. “Are you mad at him for bringing me into Satinol?”
“Of course not! Why would you think that?”
“It's just that you didn't look too happy with him this afternoon… in the studio.”
“Oh, right.” Tom realised what she was talking about and scratched his chin as he continued, “Well, the situation with Jake is that he has a habit of bringing pretty young things into the studio. And Satinol has a contract with one of the city agencies to source models for our promotional work. So, there is no need for Jake to approach girls on the street. And well, I think in the past, Jake may have been doing things like this for the wrong reason.”
“Oh, I see,” replied Ellen, sounding alarmed. She did not like the idea of being the object of Jake's affection.
“But with you, it's a bit different.”
“Is it?”
“Yes, Jake has assured me of that. He saw something in you, something familiar, but at the same time fresh and new.”
Tom reached out and tenderly tucked a stray strand of Ellen's hair behind her ear. He continued, “Did Jake tell you what his job actually is at Satinol?”
Ellen thought back, shook her head. She had assumed it was a role with the models.
“He's the travel manager for Satinol.”
“Oh. I can see why you would be concerned. And so you and Jake are on friendly terms again?”
“Well, friendly probably isn't the right word. I have a lot of colleagues at Satinol, but only one close male friend to be honest, not counting family.” Tom paused thoughtfully. “That actually sounds a bit sad. Anyway, Hayden Joseph is the company's head of legal. The two of us have been friends for a long time. We go way back. He is my right hand man at Satinol. You'll meet him sooner or later, I imagine. The two of us went through school together and have been friends for many years. In fact, I don't really remember a time without him and I couldn't imagine running the company if he left.”
Ellen was listening intently. This was the most Tom had said about himself all evening.
“And with regard to Jake, well this is not something that you need to worry about, but I've asked him to make sure it doesn't happen again. An official warning, if you like.”
“I'm really glad to hear that he didn't get fired, because of me,” said Ellen, feeling relieved.
“Fired? No. Not yet anyhow. And although I didn't want to admit it to him,” Tom continued, “Jake has actually brought the right girl in this time. I think your photos are going to be amazing.”
Ellen pretended not to hear that last comment. “My friend Chloe and I have been friends for years too.”
“She seems like a lovely girl.”
“She is,” Ellen said as she finished her second piece of pizza. “We're also working together at a hotel in the city.”
“Jake mentioned something about the Windsor. Are you enjoying working there?”
“It's fine. I mean, I’m enjoying earning my own money and, you know, being independent from my parents, but the actual work is kind of boring. I will probably go to university next year.”
“I’m glad to hear that. You know, this modelling contract will be anything but boring, I would imagine.”
“Really?” asked Ellen hopefully. She wanted to know more about working for the company but didn’t want to sound presumptuous. All evening she had tried to find the right words to ask about it.
“There'll be shopping and fittings, hair appointments, makeup sessions, photos, travel to new and exciting cities. Do you want me to go on?” asked Tom.
Ellen beamed with excitement. “Yes please. Tell me more, Tom.”
“Well, you'll get to wear designer dresses and diamonds, and stay in expensive hotels, and of course you will need your own assistant to help you with your appointments. I guess you would need a masseur as well.”
“Are you just messing with me now?” asked Ellen.
Tom chuckled. “A little,” he admitted. “From what I know, being a model is hard work. It takes a lot of time and energy and many young girls fail to realise what they are getting themselves into. Having said that, I will do everything in my power to ensure you have a positive experience working for us during the period of the contract.”
“I appreciate your saying that, Tom,” Ellen said in a serious tone, “but we haven't even seen the test shots yet.”
“The photos will be fantastic. Have some faith in yourself.”
There was a moment of silence again.
“Ellen, do you think I'm too old for you?” Tom asked. This was obviously something that was on his mind.
“How did we get back onto this subject?” Ellen asked, puzzled.
“I don't think we covered it thoroughly enough.”
“This is only our first date, Tom. I don't think we need to be so concerned with these sorts of details yet.”
“I know what you're saying, but the reason it's important is because if the media get a whiff of the fact that we are dating, it will be in the papers and gossip columns.”
Ellen smiled contentedly to herself, realising that he was talking about them as a future couple.
Tom was thoughtful as he poured more wine into their glasses. “And then for instance, your parents might hear about it before you've had a chance to tell them about me, to explain how it came to be that you are dating someone a little older.”
“My parents won't mind my dating someone older. My mum is about twelve years older than my dad.”
“Really? That's unusual,” Tom stated. “I mean for a woman to be older than her husband.” Tom paused thoughtfully. “Not that it’s a bad thing. They still might be worried about me though. Maybe I should meet them sooner rather than later.”
“If you like. But they live in Mansfield, so news from the gossip columns in Melbourne will take a while to reach them in any case.”
“Well, let me know if they hear something and are concerned about me. I’m happy to drive up there whenever we need to.”
“I'll keep that in mind, assuming you ask me out again.”
“I will.”
Ellen felt a wave of happiness sweep over her to hear that. “I think you will like my father.”
“Why is that?”
“Well, he is only,” Ellen did the maths in her head. “He is only eight years older than you.”
“Oh, that does make me feel old.”
Ellen giggled. “And he has a very good sense of humour.”
“Well, I look forward to meeting him. Do you have brothers and sisters?” Tom asked, trying to change the subject now.
“No, it’s just little me.”
The rest of the dinner was light and fun for Ellen. After the meal, Tom suggested the two of them retire to the library for coffee. He left her momentarily to prepare the drinks and Ellen took time to wander around the library studying some of the artefacts and pictures surrounding her. There was a bronze statue of a young boy which caught Ellen's attention because of the sad expression on his face. It was cold to touch and heavy when Ellen tried to lift it. The boy stood on one corner of a large wooden desk. This must be where Tom works at night, Ellen thought. There was a large leather chair at Tom's desk and Ellen pulled it out and slid into it. This is the most comfortable chair in the world, she thought to herself. Everything in the room was amazing and yet also overwhelming. Books lined the walls in shelves that reached to the ceiling. Why would he have so many books? So many rooms? Tom was a puzzle, a very intriguing puzzle. He obviously likes to joke around and have fun, she thought. He does not seem like the sort of man that would enjoy sitting in this large, stuffy room by himself for hours at night. He is a man that does not match his surroundings, she concluded, and decided right there and then to take Tom out of the house on their next date. Somewhere different and fun for both of them.
“All right then.” Tom returned to the room carrying a silver tray with various items. He laid out coffee, tea, cream, sugar and milk on the coffee table in front of the brown leather sofa. “What can I make you?” he asked, sitting down.
“I think I might just have a cup of tea if that's okay. Got to go to work early tomorrow morning.” Ellen sat down besides him on the sofa.
“No problem,” Tom said as he poured a cup of tea for Ellen and a black coffee for himself.
“So, thanks for dinner tonight,” Ellen said. “I had an interesting time.”
Tom looked up, a concerned expression on his face.
“I mean, a good time,” she corrected herself while smiling at him wickedly.
Tom turned in his seat to face her. “I had a good time being with you too. I like you a lot, Ellen.” Tom tried to kiss her lips but Ellen turned her head to the right. He kissed her cheek instead. “You don't want me to kiss you?” he asked awkwardly.
“Sorry,” she told him. Ellen had never met anyone that talked to her the way he did. She was starting to feel like a little girl, out of her depth here. The truth was, that she had no experience kissing. There were a few boys back home who had shown interest, but it had not been reciprocated. Tom was just moving too fast. But she regretted not letting him kiss her as soon as she turned her head.
“No, I'm sorry, Elle. I shouldn’t have done that. We can slow things down if you like.”
“It's just that I haven't really had a serious boyfriend before,” Ellen explained. “You surprised me, that’s all. I wasn't ready for it.” Ellen wanted him to try again, but didn't know how to express that.
“Oh I see,” Tom said, sounding a little put off. With a completely straight face, he added, “I just assumed that you would want to stay the night.”
Ellen was shocked by his suggestion and suddenly realised that seeing an older man possibly wasn't such a good idea after all. She definitely wasn't ready for all of this.
Tom watched her expression change and quickly poked her in the ribs, “Hey, I'm just joking. I don't expect anything like that.”
Ellen sighed in relief.
“I mean, if you wanted to stay, I certainly wouldn't be arguing with you,” Tom said as he observed her expression tensing again. “But I can see that you would prefer to go home tonight. I'm happy to take things slowly if that's what you need.”
“I would appreciate if we could go slowly, yes.”
“So how about I drive you home now so that you don't look so concerned anymore.”
“Okay,” Ellen said quietly, feeling a little disappointed as she grabbed her hand bag and stood up to leave.
Her cup of tea was unfinished and it looked awkwardly out of place on the coffee table as she stood up.
Tom reached for her hand. “I'm sorry I made you uncomfortable. Let's get out of here.”
The two of them chatted happily during the car ride back to Ellen's apartment and before she knew it, they pulled up outside her place. Tom leapt out of the car and dashed around to her side of the car. He is such a gentleman, Ellen thought as he gallantly opened her door and bowed for show.
“There you are, my lady”, he said as he smiled.
“Thank you, kind sir. Will you see me to my door?” Ellen asked.
“Of course, my lady.” Tom grabbed her hand and led them up the garden path and stairs to her front door.
“So,” Tom said staring into Ellen's eyes. “I could be slick and wait three days before I call you again, or I could risk showing you how keen I am and call you tomorrow. What do you think I should do?” he asked cheekily.
Ellen was amused by this question. “You know,” she said. “Women generally like men who are decisive and know what they want.”
Tom realised that he was being teased. “All right then, tomorrow it is,” he responded. To demonstrate his confidence even further, Tom leant down and quickly pecked Ellen on the lips taking her by surprise again. However, this time she didn't have time to turn her head away.
Ellen felt a little disappointed because the kiss had been too quick, and she had not had time to register it properly. She decided to do something bold, and took a step towards Tom. She gently turned her head and kissed him lightly on the lips.
Tom looked delighted and when she pulled away he reacted quickly, kissing her again, this time harder and longer. Ellen gave into his kiss and allowed herself to be completely consumed by it. Her eyelids became heavy, a dizziness swept over her and her heart started to beat like a drum. Kissing was better than she had imagined.
“Well, I had a lovely night,” he finally said, stepping back.
Ellen realised she still had her eyes closed and quickly opened them. “I did too,” she said.
“I'll call you tomorrow,” Tom said as he turned around and briskly walked away from her.
“Good night,” Ellen said still feeling light-headed, but happier than she could remember feeling in a long time.
Chapter Nine
Tom let go. “Sorry”, he said, but did not move his body or eyes away from her.
The night so far had certainly been intense. Tom had brought her the largest bunch of flowers that she had ever seen when he arrived to pick her up. He had recommended to her and Chloe that the flowers be put into a vase, and Chloe had taken the flowers nodding, even though they both knew there were no vases to be found. Tom had glanced around their sparsely furnished apartment with a slight look of horror, but thankfully, he hadn't said anything.
Soon after, Tom whisked Ellen away in his black sportscar, which was easily the fastest car she had ever been in.
His property was amazing. It was the sort of home Ellen had only ever seen in magazines. Large iron gates guarded the entrance and old oak trees lined a winding driveway through perfectly manicured lawns and gardens to a three storey stone mansion. He obviously had a number of staff who worked there, and Ellen had been intimidated by Tom’s evident wealth.
She looked at him now, wanting to return to the evening's light-hearted moments, as when they had jokingly thrown flour and sauce at each other after making dinner. “You know, I'm getting kind of hungry. I think our pizza is probably ready by now”.
Tom remembered the pizza. “Oh no! I hope we haven't burnt it.” He raced over to the oven, grabbing some large blue oven mitts from the counter. “Smells good,” he said and lifted the hot pizza out. “And yes, it looks good too.”
“What can I do?” Ellen asked, standing up.
“Why don't you grab some plates and glasses?” Tom pointed towards one of the drawers in the island bench. “And the wine glasses are behind you. I've got the cutlery and a nice bottle of wine here. Why don’t we take our wine and pizza out to the balcony and enjoy the view?” Tom was already cutting the pizza into neat rectangle-shaped slices.
Ellen found three different plate sets in the drawer and chose two plates from a plain, stone coloured set. She chose short stemmed sturdy wine glasses from the shelf. “Okay, I'm ready to go here,” she announced.
“Follow me then,” Tom said as he led her out through the double kitchen doors, down a long hallway, through a lounge room and onto a large covered timber deck.
“Wow,” Ellen said as she took the view in. The city lights shone brightly through the misty rain and appeared to stretch for miles.
“I bought this place over ten years ago because of the view, and I still love it.”
“You don't get lonely living in this big house all by yourself?” Ellen asked.
“I keep busy. You know, working lots, spending time with my parents. Actually, Estella lives in the guest house that we passed on the way in, and she has a young child about eight years old. And I just adore him, I really do. Estella has worked here for nearly five years, and she and her son are almost like family to me now.” Tom paused and seemed thoughtful. “I guess I am lonely though, a little anyway.”
Ellen looked at him tenderly. He was very brave to admit something like that. Suddenly she shivered slightly.
Tom must have noticed, “Sorry, Ellen, let me put the gas heater on.” Tom stood up and fumbled around under the coffee table to retrieve a set of matches. “Watch this”. He walked over to the wall, and lit a pilot light. Suddenly, two large heaters ignited above them, lighting up the ceiling. “Give it a minute, and we'll be warm.”
Ellen felt warmer almost immediately as they started on their pizza. There was an awkward silence and Ellen smiled at Tom in response to it. “I don't think I'm a very good date,” she joked. “I don't seem to have much to talk about. I cause trouble with your mum.” Just as Ellen was talking, she dropped a large piece of tomato and cheese onto the timber decking. “And I drop food onto your deck,” she added, disappointed in herself for not displaying more lady-like qualities.
Tom winked at Ellen. “Well, I know something we should probably talk about at some point or another.” He chuckled, but waited a moment before continuing, “So.. exactly how old are you? I'm not doing something illegal here, am I?”
Ellen giggled. “I turn nineteen in about a month. What about you?”
Tom looked relieved. “Who me?” he asked incredulously, surprised that she had turned the question around onto him so quickly.
“Yeah you,” Ellen insisted, watching him intently.
He started to look a little uneasy. “Would you believe,” Tom said and paused briefly, “That I'm thirty years old?”
Ellen shook her head. “No”, she replied at once.
“Really?” Tom questioned her earnestly.
“No!” Ellen found herself giggling again.
“Well, then, how about thirty-five?”
“Yeah, I guess I'd believe that.” Ellen tried to sound as serious as she could before continuing, “Is that the truth? Because honesty is really important to me in a relationship!”
Tom picked up his glass of red and took a long sip. “Hmmm, honesty hey?” He seemed to be deep in thought for a moment. “Okay, well then, in all honesty, I'm thirty-eight, but on the inside, I don't feel a day over thirty-seven and a half,” he said jovially. “And that's what's really important!”
Ellen decided to change the subject because their age difference wasn't really of any great concern to her. “This pizza is really good,” she informed Tom, and went on, “Really good pizza in front of a really good view.” She took a sip of wine and sighed happily.
“And lucky me, I have a really good woman here to share it with,” Tom added with a cheeky grin.
Ellen looked embarrassed and replied cautiously, “You don't even know me, Tom. We only met earlier today you know. I don't understand how you can keep saying such nice things about me already.”
Amused by her statement, Tom continued eating and said, “I know that we only met this morning, and I promised myself, that I wouldn't say anything to scare you off. I guess I'm not doing too well on that count.”
Ellen didn't necessarily want him to stop saying such nice things, and tried to clarify a little. “It's just that I haven't met anyone like you before. I guess, the whole night has been surprising.”
“Surprising in a good way?”
“Yes, a very good way.”
“I knew there was something special about you the moment I first saw you. I don't know exactly what it is, but I know that I want you in my life. I feel as if I already know you. You definitely remind me of someone but I can't quite put my finger on who that is. Jake felt the same way when he saw you the other day.”
“He did?”
“Uh huh.”
“And while we're talking about Jake,” Ellen said. “Are you mad at him for bringing me into Satinol?”
“Of course not! Why would you think that?”
“It's just that you didn't look too happy with him this afternoon… in the studio.”
“Oh, right.” Tom realised what she was talking about and scratched his chin as he continued, “Well, the situation with Jake is that he has a habit of bringing pretty young things into the studio. And Satinol has a contract with one of the city agencies to source models for our promotional work. So, there is no need for Jake to approach girls on the street. And well, I think in the past, Jake may have been doing things like this for the wrong reason.”
“Oh, I see,” replied Ellen, sounding alarmed. She did not like the idea of being the object of Jake's affection.
“But with you, it's a bit different.”
“Is it?”
“Yes, Jake has assured me of that. He saw something in you, something familiar, but at the same time fresh and new.”
Tom reached out and tenderly tucked a stray strand of Ellen's hair behind her ear. He continued, “Did Jake tell you what his job actually is at Satinol?”
Ellen thought back, shook her head. She had assumed it was a role with the models.
“He's the travel manager for Satinol.”
“Oh. I can see why you would be concerned. And so you and Jake are on friendly terms again?”
“Well, friendly probably isn't the right word. I have a lot of colleagues at Satinol, but only one close male friend to be honest, not counting family.” Tom paused thoughtfully. “That actually sounds a bit sad. Anyway, Hayden Joseph is the company's head of legal. The two of us have been friends for a long time. We go way back. He is my right hand man at Satinol. You'll meet him sooner or later, I imagine. The two of us went through school together and have been friends for many years. In fact, I don't really remember a time without him and I couldn't imagine running the company if he left.”
Ellen was listening intently. This was the most Tom had said about himself all evening.
“And with regard to Jake, well this is not something that you need to worry about, but I've asked him to make sure it doesn't happen again. An official warning, if you like.”
“I'm really glad to hear that he didn't get fired, because of me,” said Ellen, feeling relieved.
“Fired? No. Not yet anyhow. And although I didn't want to admit it to him,” Tom continued, “Jake has actually brought the right girl in this time. I think your photos are going to be amazing.”
Ellen pretended not to hear that last comment. “My friend Chloe and I have been friends for years too.”
“She seems like a lovely girl.”
“She is,” Ellen said as she finished her second piece of pizza. “We're also working together at a hotel in the city.”
“Jake mentioned something about the Windsor. Are you enjoying working there?”
“It's fine. I mean, I’m enjoying earning my own money and, you know, being independent from my parents, but the actual work is kind of boring. I will probably go to university next year.”
“I’m glad to hear that. You know, this modelling contract will be anything but boring, I would imagine.”
“Really?” asked Ellen hopefully. She wanted to know more about working for the company but didn’t want to sound presumptuous. All evening she had tried to find the right words to ask about it.
“There'll be shopping and fittings, hair appointments, makeup sessions, photos, travel to new and exciting cities. Do you want me to go on?” asked Tom.
Ellen beamed with excitement. “Yes please. Tell me more, Tom.”
“Well, you'll get to wear designer dresses and diamonds, and stay in expensive hotels, and of course you will need your own assistant to help you with your appointments. I guess you would need a masseur as well.”
“Are you just messing with me now?” asked Ellen.
Tom chuckled. “A little,” he admitted. “From what I know, being a model is hard work. It takes a lot of time and energy and many young girls fail to realise what they are getting themselves into. Having said that, I will do everything in my power to ensure you have a positive experience working for us during the period of the contract.”
“I appreciate your saying that, Tom,” Ellen said in a serious tone, “but we haven't even seen the test shots yet.”
“The photos will be fantastic. Have some faith in yourself.”
There was a moment of silence again.
“Ellen, do you think I'm too old for you?” Tom asked. This was obviously something that was on his mind.
“How did we get back onto this subject?” Ellen asked, puzzled.
“I don't think we covered it thoroughly enough.”
“This is only our first date, Tom. I don't think we need to be so concerned with these sorts of details yet.”
“I know what you're saying, but the reason it's important is because if the media get a whiff of the fact that we are dating, it will be in the papers and gossip columns.”
Ellen smiled contentedly to herself, realising that he was talking about them as a future couple.
Tom was thoughtful as he poured more wine into their glasses. “And then for instance, your parents might hear about it before you've had a chance to tell them about me, to explain how it came to be that you are dating someone a little older.”
“My parents won't mind my dating someone older. My mum is about twelve years older than my dad.”
“Really? That's unusual,” Tom stated. “I mean for a woman to be older than her husband.” Tom paused thoughtfully. “Not that it’s a bad thing. They still might be worried about me though. Maybe I should meet them sooner rather than later.”
“If you like. But they live in Mansfield, so news from the gossip columns in Melbourne will take a while to reach them in any case.”
“Well, let me know if they hear something and are concerned about me. I’m happy to drive up there whenever we need to.”
“I'll keep that in mind, assuming you ask me out again.”
“I will.”
Ellen felt a wave of happiness sweep over her to hear that. “I think you will like my father.”
“Why is that?”
“Well, he is only,” Ellen did the maths in her head. “He is only eight years older than you.”
“Oh, that does make me feel old.”
Ellen giggled. “And he has a very good sense of humour.”
“Well, I look forward to meeting him. Do you have brothers and sisters?” Tom asked, trying to change the subject now.
“No, it’s just little me.”
The rest of the dinner was light and fun for Ellen. After the meal, Tom suggested the two of them retire to the library for coffee. He left her momentarily to prepare the drinks and Ellen took time to wander around the library studying some of the artefacts and pictures surrounding her. There was a bronze statue of a young boy which caught Ellen's attention because of the sad expression on his face. It was cold to touch and heavy when Ellen tried to lift it. The boy stood on one corner of a large wooden desk. This must be where Tom works at night, Ellen thought. There was a large leather chair at Tom's desk and Ellen pulled it out and slid into it. This is the most comfortable chair in the world, she thought to herself. Everything in the room was amazing and yet also overwhelming. Books lined the walls in shelves that reached to the ceiling. Why would he have so many books? So many rooms? Tom was a puzzle, a very intriguing puzzle. He obviously likes to joke around and have fun, she thought. He does not seem like the sort of man that would enjoy sitting in this large, stuffy room by himself for hours at night. He is a man that does not match his surroundings, she concluded, and decided right there and then to take Tom out of the house on their next date. Somewhere different and fun for both of them.
“All right then.” Tom returned to the room carrying a silver tray with various items. He laid out coffee, tea, cream, sugar and milk on the coffee table in front of the brown leather sofa. “What can I make you?” he asked, sitting down.
“I think I might just have a cup of tea if that's okay. Got to go to work early tomorrow morning.” Ellen sat down besides him on the sofa.
“No problem,” Tom said as he poured a cup of tea for Ellen and a black coffee for himself.
“So, thanks for dinner tonight,” Ellen said. “I had an interesting time.”
Tom looked up, a concerned expression on his face.
“I mean, a good time,” she corrected herself while smiling at him wickedly.
Tom turned in his seat to face her. “I had a good time being with you too. I like you a lot, Ellen.” Tom tried to kiss her lips but Ellen turned her head to the right. He kissed her cheek instead. “You don't want me to kiss you?” he asked awkwardly.
“Sorry,” she told him. Ellen had never met anyone that talked to her the way he did. She was starting to feel like a little girl, out of her depth here. The truth was, that she had no experience kissing. There were a few boys back home who had shown interest, but it had not been reciprocated. Tom was just moving too fast. But she regretted not letting him kiss her as soon as she turned her head.
“No, I'm sorry, Elle. I shouldn’t have done that. We can slow things down if you like.”
“It's just that I haven't really had a serious boyfriend before,” Ellen explained. “You surprised me, that’s all. I wasn't ready for it.” Ellen wanted him to try again, but didn't know how to express that.
“Oh I see,” Tom said, sounding a little put off. With a completely straight face, he added, “I just assumed that you would want to stay the night.”
Ellen was shocked by his suggestion and suddenly realised that seeing an older man possibly wasn't such a good idea after all. She definitely wasn't ready for all of this.
Tom watched her expression change and quickly poked her in the ribs, “Hey, I'm just joking. I don't expect anything like that.”
Ellen sighed in relief.
“I mean, if you wanted to stay, I certainly wouldn't be arguing with you,” Tom said as he observed her expression tensing again. “But I can see that you would prefer to go home tonight. I'm happy to take things slowly if that's what you need.”
“I would appreciate if we could go slowly, yes.”
“So how about I drive you home now so that you don't look so concerned anymore.”
“Okay,” Ellen said quietly, feeling a little disappointed as she grabbed her hand bag and stood up to leave.
Her cup of tea was unfinished and it looked awkwardly out of place on the coffee table as she stood up.
Tom reached for her hand. “I'm sorry I made you uncomfortable. Let's get out of here.”
The two of them chatted happily during the car ride back to Ellen's apartment and before she knew it, they pulled up outside her place. Tom leapt out of the car and dashed around to her side of the car. He is such a gentleman, Ellen thought as he gallantly opened her door and bowed for show.
“There you are, my lady”, he said as he smiled.
“Thank you, kind sir. Will you see me to my door?” Ellen asked.
“Of course, my lady.” Tom grabbed her hand and led them up the garden path and stairs to her front door.
“So,” Tom said staring into Ellen's eyes. “I could be slick and wait three days before I call you again, or I could risk showing you how keen I am and call you tomorrow. What do you think I should do?” he asked cheekily.
Ellen was amused by this question. “You know,” she said. “Women generally like men who are decisive and know what they want.”
Tom realised that he was being teased. “All right then, tomorrow it is,” he responded. To demonstrate his confidence even further, Tom leant down and quickly pecked Ellen on the lips taking her by surprise again. However, this time she didn't have time to turn her head away.
Ellen felt a little disappointed because the kiss had been too quick, and she had not had time to register it properly. She decided to do something bold, and took a step towards Tom. She gently turned her head and kissed him lightly on the lips.
Tom looked delighted and when she pulled away he reacted quickly, kissing her again, this time harder and longer. Ellen gave into his kiss and allowed herself to be completely consumed by it. Her eyelids became heavy, a dizziness swept over her and her heart started to beat like a drum. Kissing was better than she had imagined.
“Well, I had a lovely night,” he finally said, stepping back.
Ellen realised she still had her eyes closed and quickly opened them. “I did too,” she said.
“I'll call you tomorrow,” Tom said as he turned around and briskly walked away from her.
“Good night,” Ellen said still feeling light-headed, but happier than she could remember feeling in a long time.
Chapter Nine
Two days after their first meeting, Ellen once again found herself inside Satinol Cosmetics, this time to discuss the results of her first photo shoot. Tom had called briefly the day before, as he had promised, and thanked her for the wonderful dinner date. It would be nice to see him again.
Ellen was led into a large boardroom where Tom and a couple of other men that Ellen did not recognise were looking over numerous prints from her photo shoot.
“Here she is, the lady in question”, Tom announced as Ellen smiled and walked towards them.
Tom briefly introduced each of the men to her, and explained their role in the company. Ellen slid around the table to view some of the pictures of herself.
Wow! She was blown away. It is amazing what lights and makeup can achieve, she thought. Some of the pictures hardly looked like her at all. Not wanting to look too pleased, she hesitantly asked, “Are you happy with them?”
“What do you think?” Tom asked, handing her a couple of prints that he had been holding. He moved behind her and rested one hand on her shoulder.
One of the men seemed to notice this, but did not say anything.
“That's my favourite,” he said gently pointing to the first image. “I think you are going to be a star.”
Seeing her image everywhere and receiving compliments from the men soon made Ellen feel embarrassed, and her face reddened as if she were outside on a hot day.
“Well Ellen,” Tom happily announced, taking a seat next to her. “Based on these amazing first shots, we would like to offer you a contract, before someone else does! So, what do you say?”
Ellen paused and look around the room at the men's faces, waiting for her response. “Um, yes, of course. Working here sounds really exciting.”
“Well, we're the ones who are excited to have you. I’ll have the paperwork drawn up this week. Now..”
Tom was interrupted by an intercom and Ellen recognised the voice of Tom's assistant, “Tom, Hayden has just arrived back from Hong Kong. Should I ask him to join you?”
“Yes, Elizabeth. Ask him to come in straight away,” exclaimed Tom. Turning to Ellen, he continued, “Wonderful. I'm glad that the two of you can meet today. Now, there are a few things, perks if you like, that come with the job. If you are interested, we can provide some accommodation for you closer to work. And before you ask, of course you can bring Chloe.”
“Really? You mean like an apartment in the city?” Ellen asked incredulously.
“Yes, Satinol owns a number of apartments, which are used by our overseas guests mostly. I believe we have a fully-furnished, twentieth-storey apartment with some amazing views free at the moment.”
“And I get to live there?”
“Yes, I have reserved one for twelve months at this stage.”
“Oh, my God. I can't believe it. Thank you.”
“Well, you will need to be close to the building. Before you get too excited, you should know that there will be early mornings, late nights, a lot of travel and long working hours. We are not offering you an ordinary modelling job that lasts for half a day. You will be the face of Satinol for our summer range, and I'm told this will involve a lot of hard work.”
Just as Tom was talking, the board room doors opened and in walked a tall man with dark hair and a serious expression. He was an aggressive-looking man with a loosened tie, ruffled hair and a couple of days of facial hair growth.
Ellen took a seat, thinking to herself how important he must be, to be allowed to dress in that manner. Every other man in the board room was impeccably presented.
“Well, I'm back,” he announced loudly, sounding a little relieved as he put his bag down and walked towards the group. “Hong Kong was a rat race as always, but we managed to close the deal with the Chinese, so it was a successful trip.”
The man suddenly noticed Ellen seated next to Tom and stared at her for an uncomfortable period of time, as if she was the last person he was expecting to see. The man's forehead began to tighten and he squinted as if his vision was blurring.
“Hayden, are you okay?” Tom asked, standing up and moving towards him.
“Five business meetings, seven stiff drinks, a delayed flight and twenty-four hours without sleep. Um, no, not really.” He did not shift his eyes from Ellen.
Ellen thought the man looked quite irritable. He must not have been a pleasant person to deal with on the plane.
“My head is really throbbing, that's all,” he explained, turning back to Tom.
“Hayden, I'm sorry you are not feeling well, but I'm glad you're back. There is someone I'd like you to meet,” Tom announced, waving him over. “We have decided to feature one face for the summer campaign this year. This is Ellen and she has been chosen as that face. Have a look at some of these,” Tom said with pride in his voice as he offered the images to Hayden.
Hayden accepted the photographs, but did not look at any of them. Instead, his eyes returned to Ellen.
Ellen blushed awkwardly under his stare and felt her heart beating strangely.
“I don't know,” said Hayden softly as he suddenly turned his attention to Tom. “Has anything been signed yet? I'm really not sure about this decision.”
“I'm sorry, Hayden,” said Tom sternly. “That surprises me. You know I don't usually get involved so closely with these matters, but we all agree on this one. Granted, it's a new direction for Satinol, but the decision has been made and the matter is not up for debate.”
“Is that right?”
“Yes, and I thought you'd be happy to meet Ellen.”
“Did you?”
Tom seemed more surprised than anything else. “And you don't usually have any views on marketing matters, come to think of it. So, I’m not sure I understand your hesitation on this one.”
“And come to think of it, you don't usually know the names of the models,” Hayden retorted.
The room became silent.
Hayden narrowed his eyes on Tom and asked in an accusing tone, “How do you know this girl?”
The answer to Hayden's question seemed to have everyone interested. Ellen wished that she was anywhere in the world other than here.
“Hayden,” Tom said sternly. “You really look tired! How about we catch up tomorrow to discuss this issue further?”
Ellen wasn't sure if Hayden thought she was unattractive, or whether he was just angry at being left out of the decision-making process. In any case, she thought it best to keep quiet.
Obviously uncomfortable in her presence, Hayden put the photos back on the table and retreated to the door. Before leaving, he paused and turned to face Tom and the other men. “I half suspect that one of you is sleeping with her,” he stated. “And I hope it isn't you, Tom. That would be very unprofessional.”
With that final accusation, Hayden marched out of the room, leaving everyone momentarily stunned.
Once the door had slammed, Ellen looked towards Tom and concluded, “I don't think he likes me!”
“Oh Ellen,” exclaimed Tom. “I have no idea what that was about,” he said, walking back towards her. “I think you are perfect for the campaign. He’s just tired. I’ll talk to him tomorrow.” He rubbed her shoulders gently for a moment before abruptly stopping when his colleagues' eyes focussed on them again.
Ellen remained seated, expecting him to retract his earlier offer any minute.
Instead, Tom reached into his pocket and produced a set of keys. “I picked these up before. I think we need something to cheer us up. How about the two of us pick up Chloe and inspect your new apartment?”
Ellen smiled at Tom, feeling relieved to hear his confidence in her had not been completely dismantled by Hayden's lack of enthusiasm. “That sounds great,” she replied, turning her chair to face him.
Half an hour later, Ellen and Tom had picked up Chloe and were on their way to the new apartment. Ellen was amazed at the way Tom made her feel like the most important person in his life. Surely, he had more important business matters to attend to, but if that was the case, he did not show any signs of wanting or needing to be anywhere else.
“Chloe,” said Tom in a loud voice, for the first time directing the conversation towards her in the back seat. “How is your job at the hotel going?”
Ellen realised that she and Tom had been leaving Chloe out of the conversation a little, but it had not been on purpose. Even though she and Tom had only just met, they just seemed to have so many things to talk about.
Chloe was happy to join in. “It won't be as good without Ellen there, that's for sure,” she responded, leaning forward to give her friend a soft punch on the shoulder. “The other staff are mostly older you know, and it's not as much fun working with them,” she added.
Tom was thoughtful for a moment. “You know, Chloe, I think Ellen might be more comfortable at Satinol if she has a friend around, and I'm just wondering if I can find a job opportunity for you.”
“Really?” asked Chloe, sounding very surprised.
Ellen was not expecting Tom to offer anything like that either, but was happy with the suggestion.
“You can do that?” asked Chloe.
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