Take 2
‘I’m glad you could come,’ David said, switching on another lamp in the bedroom.
Kate stood hesitantly in the doorway. ‘I wasn’t sure. I still don’t know if I’ll stay.’
He stopped smoothing down a sheet and smiled, slightly sly. ‘Oh really? You’ll stay.’ Walking over to her, he cupped a hand around her jaw and tilted her head up. ‘You’ll stay because you want exactly what I do.’ He leant in for a kiss.
By the time he pulled away she was grabbing at his shoulders, seeking more. He smoothed his hands down her dress and eased away, leading her back toward the bed.
‘I think we can get rid of this, don’t you?’ he asked, tweaking the strap of her dress. Kate smiled shyly.
She couldn’t help the shivers that were running through her. After last time, she had been almost overwhelmed with memories and feelings as she went about each day. The feeling of doing - that - with someone she had just met; the way he had taken control…
He mouthed at her now-bare breast and she let her head fall back, enjoying the moment, gripping his shoulders tightly. The surge of arousal made her braver, and her fingers found their way to his shirt buttons. She felt him chuckle.
‘Good girl,’ he said, hands moving to remove the rest of her clothing.
Clothes were shed and cast aside, and soon Kate was able to relish the full, hard length of his body pressed against her as they lay on the bed.
‘I want…’ she moaned, and he squeezed her ass in reply, biting her shoulder briefly before rolling to get the supplies from the nightstand.
‘Roll over,’ he instructed. ‘All fours.’
She shivered again at being in such a vulnerable position, made to feel even more vulnerable by the way he ran a finger down her spine, showing her how much he was in control. His finger traced down the curve of her lower back, and lower, dipping between her cheeks and sliding through the wetness of her pussy.
‘Oh!’ she said.
‘Damn right,’ came the reply. ‘You know what you’re here for. You want it, don’t you?’ He moved so his thick cock rested between her cheeks and rocked his hips, dragging its hot length along her wetness, teasing but never giving her exactly what she wanted. Kate bit her lip at the feeling of him pressed up against her, cock pushing her asscheeks apart, heavy, soft balls brushing up against the slit of her pussy.
‘Oh God.’ She couldn’t help a wiggle. ‘Yes. Do it!’ She felt his hips retreat and then his thick fingers were teasing her, one, then two dipping in to test the slick wetness of her cunt.
‘Fuck, yes. I’ve been thinking about fucking this all day,’ he said, roughly adding a third finger. ‘You like taking my thick cock, don’t you sweetheart? You’ve been thinking about me too, I can tell.’ All Kate could do was moan in response, her head dropping down. His movements were making her sway and she was being driven wild by the slow thrust of his fingers not quite reaching where she needed them.
‘Please,’ she said. ‘More. Fuck me.’
He chuckled. ‘Someone’s impatient.’ She barely had time to register that comment before he’d shifted and thrust, his thick length entering her in one movement.
‘Yes!’ he grunted. ‘Oh, fuck, yes! Take it, you little bitch. Fuck, you’re so wet for me.’ He thrust two or three times, going deep, hard enough to make her titties slap together.
He pulled out, making her gasp at the sudden emptiness. A slap on her ass made her look over.
‘On me,’ he said, lying down. ‘I want to watch you ride me.’
Kate bit her lip, feeling shy again as she leaned over to straddle him. His eyes were hot, roaming all over her body as he caressed her tits, tweaking the nipples.
‘Yeah,’ he said as she slid back down on his cock. ‘Take it all in, sweetheart. Rock that pussy on my cock.’
Kate tentatively rose and dropped, eyes closing in pleasure at the sensation. Again. And again, until she was bouncing on his cock, riding him without shame. The noises he was making encouraged her and soon she was riding him like an animal, chasing the intensity that was inside her.
‘That’s it, baby, fuck yourself on my cock. Take it.’ His hand caressed her hip, almost tenderly. ‘Fuck that beautiful pussy. Oh, fuck. Gonna come in you. You’re gonna make me come.’
By this time she was panting, feeling the cock within her start to swell. The feeling of him rubbing against her, stretching her and filling her, combined with the delicious sensation of bouncing on his cock and making her whole body jolt with each rock, drove her to the edge. She felt a thumb brush lightly against her clit and she was gone, pussy walls clamping down on the hard rod inside her and hips rocking as she came, hard.
The stars slowly cleared from her vision and she looked down at David. He gave her a slow smile.
‘Back on all fours, lovely. I’m not finished fucking you yet.’
Kate had a feeling the night was far from over.
short stories
Wednesday, March 13, 2019
Saturday, February 16, 2019
No one was more surprised when Emma Watson sat down at his table.
He had seen her here time and time again, it was part of a chain of family restaurants and he couldn’t believe his eyes when he recognized her a few tables over. At first, he thought that it couldn’t possibly be her, it had to be a look alike. He wanted nothing more than to go over and talk to her, but she would probably just brush him off as yet another crazy Harry Potter fan. So he found himself in a familiar routine, getting breakfast here at the same restaurant every morning. He always brought a newspaper along to give himself something to do, a reason to hang around for so long rather than just eat and leave.
He didn’t think it would ever go any further than this, so no one was more surprised than him when she actually came over to his table. He was reading through his newspaper when he heard her voice.
“Excuse me?”
At first, he couldn’t believe his ears, but he looked up and there she was, standing right near his table. At first, he was worried that he had done something wrong, did she think he was stalking her and she was here to tell him off?
“Do you mind if I sit down?” she asked, shyly like she was afraid that he would say no.
“O-of course,” he stammered, and she slid into the chair opposite him.
“Oh thank you so much, can I borrow this?” she pointed to the newspaper.
“Oh, sure,” while it was flattering that she had come over, the thought that she would now leave was a sad one.
But instead, she held up the newspaper like a shield, hiding them both from the rest of the restaurant. It felt beautiful in a way, when he looked at her he could imagine that they were in their own little world.
“Are you okay?” he asked. For a moment he fantasized that she had been trying to work up the courage to talk to him the way he had with her. She ducked closer to him and he found himself staring into her beautiful doe-like eyes.
“There’s a guy over there and I’m pretty sure he’s taking pictures of me,”
“Wow, that’s so creepy,” he tried to squash the part of him that was a bit relieved that she didn’t think he was weird.
“Exactly, I didn’t want to bother you, but I don’t want the paparazzi to realize that I’m here. It’s just…I see you in here every day and I hoped you’d take pity on me,”
“It’s really no trouble at all,” it was all he could say. She smiled at him sweetly and his heart fluttered, he loved the idea of being her knight in shining armor, here to protect her from the creeps of the world. He didn’t want this morning to end and he had an idea as to how he could keep this going.
“Would you like to get out of here?” he asked. “You shouldn’t have to go hungry because of that creep, I know a place down the street,”
“That’s a great idea, I’d love to, how will we get out of here?”
“Yeah, I think they’ll notice if we keep hiding behind this newspaper,”
She laughed, the sound was so pure like a bell and he realized that he was grinning like an idiot.
“What if you wear my hat?” he took off his baseball cap and offered it to her. “It could hide your face,”
She put it on posed for him.
“How does it look?”
“Gorgeous,” the word burst out of him before he could stop it and there was a terrifying moment where he was worried that she would think that he sounded like a dork, but instead she blushed and smiled like she was genuinely flattered.
“I hope this doesn’t sound too weird or anything, but could you put your arm around me?”
They stood up from the table and he put his arm around Emma, making sure to stand between her and the other people in the restaurant. He felt his heart soar and he couldn’t remember the last time he had felt this excited. At first, he assumed that she wanted to pretend they were a couple as a cover to get out of the restaurant, but when they were out the door he felt her snuggle a little closer to him, like she was genuinely happy to be there.
“Hey, I hope this doesn’t sound too forward, but would you like to come back to my place?”
She looked up at him and he quickly reassured her.
“I’ll make you breakfast and we can watch Netflix or something,” it’d be nice to spend some more time with her, and this way they didn’t have to worry about prying eyes.
“I’d like that,” she smiled up at him.
He still had his arm wrapped around Emma when he realised that he should introduce himself.
“Oh, sorry, I’m David Simmons,” he stuck out the hand that wasn’t wrapped around her shoulders. Part of him wanted to go on and on and on about how he probably knew all about her and she didn’t know the slightest thing about him, but before he said it he realised how creepy it sounded. It would be better to introduce himself like he was meeting anyone else for the first time. After all, deep down he wanted to get to know Emma as a person, not just a celebrity.
“Emma,” she shook it as she looked up at him, smiling. It felt so strange to be shaking her hand like she was a stranger, while his other arm was wrapped around her like she was his girlfriend.
Yeah, I wish, he didn’t want to give him hopes, how could Emma Watson of all people possibly consider actually dating him? But maybe that’s what she wanted, someone to treat her as plain old Emma rather than a celebrity actress and he decided that he would like this from now on like she was a pretty girl he wanted to get to know rather than a famous celebrity that he had a major crush on.
“Are you serious about coming back to my place?” he asked.
“As long as you don’t alert the media,” she tried to say it in a joking tone, but he could see in her eyes that she knew that she should be worried, he was a complete stranger after all…
“What would be the point?” he told her honestly. “You’d leave and I wouldn’t get to know you. Besides, I know where you have breakfast, or used to,” he corrected himself, there was no way in heck that she would be going back there after that creepy fan had found her there. “If I were interested in selling you out to the media, wouldn’t I have told them where you were already? We’d be surrounded right now,”
“I suppose so, yes,” he could see a flash of raw vulnerability in her eyes and he knew that she desperately wanted to trust him. At that moment he could see what a real burden it was to be this famous, that she couldn’t even make plans to go over to somebody’s house for breakfast without the whole world dying to know the juicy details. He could almost see the conflict stirring inside her like a storm, Emma the celebrity warned her to stay away, to protect herself, but Emma the human being wanted desperately to trust him, to make a personal connection with someone that had nothing to do with her celebrity status. He suddenly felt a strong sense of empathy with her and he realised how isolated she must be, what she needed right now was a true friend, and hopefully, a future boyfriend, not some star-struck fan boy.
“I’ll tell you what,” it would mean an incredible sacrifice of dignity, but it would be necessary if he wanted to really get to know her, to make a connection to her as a human being. “If you come to mine and let me cook for you, I’ll tell you about my most embarrassing memory from high school, you can tell whoever you want,”… in case I spill the beans and we end up on the cover of tomorrow’s newspaper… he wanted to say, but he didn’t want that image in her mind anymore than what it already was.
“Alright then,” she smiled up at him. He kept his arm around her as they walked, happy beyond belief that she was still wearing his hat. It would protect her from prying eyes and honestly he would be happy if she never took it off. If he was ever unfortunate enough to get it back, he would never wash it. The hat itself seemed to represent his presence, protecting her from unwanted attention even when they weren’t together.
They walked together towards his apartment building, every step taking them closer and closer to his home, his haven, a place where they could be alone without the fear and pressure of constant surveillance. He had only a taste of what her world was like, and already he hated it. He could almost understand now, why so many old child stars ended up with drug and alcohol problems, and all he had to do was to keep an eye out for prying eyes on the way back to his apartment.
“So,” he kept looking at her out of the corner of his eyes, he still couldn’t believe that it was really her. I could just be a look-alike posing as Emma, though the odds at this point seemed unlikely. But were those odds more or less likely than not only running into the woman herself, but that she would come right up to him and ask him for help in a way that would result in the two of them going away somewhere private. He didn’t want to brag too much, but he wasn’t a bad looking guy, and there was every chance that she was a girl who happened to look like Emma Watson and she was trying to score a date, or simply enjoyed impersonating a celebrity for the attention. While the last thing he wanted to do was to scare her off in case she did turn out to be the real deal, if they spent time together it had to be because they genuinely seemed to enjoy each other’s company, not because she was a celebrity impersonator who was just looking for attention, if that were the case, then he would be left feeling like that he had been wasting his time, he wasn’t the kind of man who enjoyed being lied to.
“So, are you really…well, you?” he asked.
“Yes, I am,” she laughed, and he wondered how many times she had heard it, the “oh you couldn’t possibly be Emma Watson because if I gushed over you and you turned out to be someone else by mistake I’d just die of embarrassment,” spiel. Or the kind of people who assumed that celebrities were vampires or some kind of hermit who only left home under the cover of dark with a small army of bodyguards, photographers and assistants.
“I can show you my driver’s licence if you don’t believe me,” she offered with a small laugh, but he could see the worry in her eyes.
“It’s okay, I wasn’t about to go all stalker fanboy on you, I just…” Honestly, there was no way he could say it now, he was worried that he would sound too lame if he said out loud what he had been thinking.
“You just wanted to know if it was really me and I wasn’t some attention seeking look alike?” it was hard to real the expression in her eyes and now she was saying it out loud he started to feel a little embarrassed.
“It’s okay,” she smiled at him reassuringly when she saw the look he had on his face. “It happens more often than you’d think,”
“Really?” he asked, while he was still slightly embarrassed that he had brought it up, but now he was also curious. “It sounds like there’s a story behind that,”
“Well,” she looked down a little embarrassed before she continued. “I did catch a girl trying to pretend to be me trying to get free makeup samples,”
“Seriously?” he asked, not sure what he was feeling more, entertained or just confused. “Why on earth would she do that?”
“It was at Sephora, everything there is usually pretty expensive,” she explained. Normally he didn’t really get makeup, but he understood the gist of what she was saying.
“Can’t imagine she was happy to see you,” he commented and she laughed.
“She was really quite thrilled actually, until she realised that I had heard the whole conversation she had with the sales girl,”
He laughed with her as they stepped in through his front door. He looked around his apartment with an uncomfortable sense of dread. It wasn’t as bad as it could have been, but he hadn’t taken the garbage out and there were odd things lying around along with some empty beer cans and some laundry. He knew that he should have cleaned up as he was stepping out the door, but he had figured that it could wait until he got back, he hadn’t really intended to bring anyone back.
“I…have you got a bathroom?” she asked.
“Oh yeah, down the hall,” he showed her where it was before running around his apartment frantically. He briefly wondered if she really did need to use his bathroom or if she could see how badly he wanted to clean up and knew that he didn’t want to make her uncomfortable by tidying up right in front of her. He threw the laundry in the machine, any garbage in the bin and did his best to straighten everything up, so he wasn’t too embarrassed when she emerged from the bathroom. She smiled at him and he felt butterflies inside him, he was looking forward to spending the day with her.
He stood back to admire his handiwork, the place wasn't as clean as he would like, but it was at least semi presentable and he felt a whole lot less embarrassed to let Emma see the place. He heard the sound of footsteps and turned to see Emma standing in front of him. She was smiling at him with such glare in her eyes like she wanted to tell him that he cleaned up his place really quickly and that she really went to the bathroom just to give him some time.
“Your place looks so nice. It is so comfortable and warm” – she smiled. David understood the catch and he laughed.
“Well, thank you. It usually looks even better than it does now. I was in a hurry these days, so I did not have much time to clean this up and you know…” - Emma interrupted him in the middle of his sentence wanting him to understand that she does not really care whether he cleans his apartment or not and that there was no reason why he should feel ashamed at that moment.
“I really enjoyed having breakfast in the restaurant. It is a great start of the day for me. And I must admit that I was feeling even better when I saw that you are sitting on the opposite table. It felt like I have company. Like there was someone that is into me not into the celebrity. It was just a great feeling that I had”. – At that moment David did not know how to react. He was not sure what would be the right reply to this saying. At that moment, David decided to show her the Harry Potter collection he had kept in his bedroom in order to show her that he admires her work and that he knows how greats she is. His intention was to show her that despite knowing that she is an excellent actress, he wanted to get to know the real Emma Watson, not just Hermione.
He brought the Harry Potter collection in front of her. He thought that she would be surprised, but she stood up from the sofa. Her look was insecure and she became anxious.
“I really think I should go now”. David was confused and did not know what to do.
“Sorry, Emma” – he said “I am a big fan of yours, but I did not bring you here because of that. The first time I saw you at the restaurant was destiny. I did not even know that you were going there. The times after that I went there on purpose, because I wanted to meet Emma not Hermione. I know a lot of things about her, but I do not know Emma. And I will be thrilled if I get the chance to meet you. I just wanted us to get to know each other better” – His voice calmed while he was saying the last words.
Emma was hesitating but he seemed like a good guy who was telling the truth.
“I guess we can grab a cup of coffee sometimes in the restaurant” – she smiled.
David smiled at her. “The pleasure would be mine”!
David was glad that everything went perfectly regarding the awkward situation when he showed Emma his Harry Potter collection. In fact, that was his biggest fear since he had met her or the very first time in the nearby restaurant. He was glad everything was over, so now he was ready for a brand new start. He was kind of feeling the vibes he was getting from Emma and it seemed like a great sign that Emma was enjoying his company just as much as he did.
“Would you like to have a coffee now? I did not have a coffee this morning because I wanted to go to the restaurant first in order to check whether you will be there.” – It seemed like David spilled the beans with the last few words. He started blushing and in a few seconds, his face was red. The damage was done. He could not do anything about it. He tried to save this situation because he could feel the tension floating in the air. It seemed like Emma was feeling a bit uncomfortable also.
“Or maybe you would like some tea? I have some herbal tea, fruit tea… or if you want some coffee that is fine… - David started stammering because he was feeling even more uncomfortable... – “Yeah, coffee is a good idea” – he tried to come to his senses – “Would you like some sugar or milk in your coffee? – David started moving slowly to the kitchen.
“Yeah, sure, coffee is fine. I am not such a great fan of tea. I prefer coffee.” – Emma replied.
While David was in the kitchen, Emma was looking around David’s living room. She wanted to get to know him better and to realize whether they have something in common so that they can talk about it when he returns to the living room. There was a certificate from the major for his charity work and helping those in need. Also, David wanted to help the pensioners and the single mothers. She felt like her heart was melting because now she was certain that he really as a heart of gold and that he is not just a creepy fan of hers.
“I am sorry, it seems like I run out of coffee, so I made some tea. I hope that is not a problem.” – David felt a bit ashamed because this was the second embarrassing thing this morning – firstly the room was a mess and secondly, he did not have the basic “survival” ingredients in the kitchen.
“No, it is okay. It smells delicious. “– Emma wanted to take the cup in his hands, but she spilled the tea on the carpet because it was too hot.
“I am so sorry. I will clean this up right away.” – Emma was also ashamed.
“No, it is okay. I think this means we should go to some coffee shop and buy some coffee. It seems that tea is not a good idea, but coffee is” – David smiled.
“Yes, that would be great. I really need one now. I will grab my jacket.”
David and Emma left David’s home and they were shocked. There were a bunch of people with cameras waiting for them in front of the house. They started taking photos and it became really noisy and loud.
“What is that? How did they find out? Oh, this is a disaster! – Emma was desperate.
“I don’t know. Come here, we will escape through the back door!”
David grabbed Emma’s hand and led her to the back door of his home. Emma decided to believe David this time because he had the feeling that he is a really good man with good intentions. Although, she had one small grain of doubt in her soul that David might have been the one who had called the media and told them that she was there in his home. Anyways, she was a famous actress and she had learnt that in a job like hers, a man must be aware of everything. This time, she had no other choice than to believe him that everything will turn out great at the end of this mess.
Emma walked with her eyes closed all the time while they both were going to the back door. It seemed like she was blinded from the flashlight of the cameras. They went downstairs to the basement because David needed the key to the back door. After a while, David managed to find the key and he opened the door. But, something unexpected happened. When David opened the door, several men were waiting outside with the cameras in their hands. Some of them had some microphones with them and started asking a lot of questions. Emma panicked and David was very nervous because he was feeling like he was letting Emma down. It was a terrible moment for both of them.
David tried to calm down and started yelling at the journalists. “This was enough gentlemen, now get out of here immediately this is a private property and you are not allowed to get in here. You have no permission to jump over the fence and come in my yard in front of the door. You have two seconds to leave or I will be calling the police.” – David was very frustrated and even his face turned red. Emma wanted to help David put an end to this misery and decided to step ahead.
“It’s okay David. The gentlemen want to ask me a few questions. Come on gentlemen. Each of you can ask only one question. I have no time.” – Emma tried to look calm and keep a natural look on her face.
“Who is this Emma? Is this your new boyfriend? Tell us more about him.
“Well, I thought you were going to ask something about me, but here you are for a juicy gossip about my friend. – Emma giggled and tried to make this situation less tense. “Well, I am sorry to disappoint you, but this is my friend. I am here to help him in his tough times. He has been doing some charity work and he also helps the retired people. Another one?
“What is his name, why were you hiding him?”
“I am not hiding him, as I said, he needs some help and some good company, that means a little privacy is required in these situations. You do not need his name, or I will give you the challenge to discover it by yourselves” – Emma smiled.
“Are you going to have a cup of coffee with him at the restaurant again?” – The last question made Emma really upset. She did not expect this question and felt a little bit shocked because she thought no one saw her leaving with David from the restaurant. Or, after all, maybe it was David.
“Well, what I question. I don’t know the answer to that question. – Emma laughed again in order to look less tense.
“Okay, you got what you want. Now get out of here.” – David yelled at the journalists.
“This was a really unpleasant situation. I do not know how all of this happened. I just wanted some quiet time with you, just one simple cup of coffee… Look at all of this mess. They are still in the yard. I do not know what to do. I think I should call the police!” – David seemed really upset. He felt like he owed some reasonable explanation to Emma for all of this mess. He felt a little bit guilty.
“No, it will be even worse. The police will question us also. They may report this to the media and it will be even worse. They will make a whole new story, leaving out my previous interview. I am not sure if the press believed my story, but it is better to leave it like this than to make it even worse” – Emma took a really deep breath. She seemed very frustrated. She was walking around the room, biting her nails and trying to come up with a solution.
“Let’s go somewhere. I cannot stay in here any longer. Take your jacket. We are going somewhere where it is less crowded.” – David tried to calm the situation.
“Where are we going? We can go to any public place. There might be someone who may recognize me.” – Emma replied.
“Well, I have a cousin who has a cabin in the woods. Maybe we can go there and have a cup of coffee. It is really quiet there. There is no other cabin near his so I am sure there will be no people. We can get there in an hour”
“Are you sure David?” – Emma gave David a fierce glare.
David seemed a bit confused. “Yes, I am Emma! Why are you asking this?”
“Because so many coincidences happened in the past few hours that I can even process all of the information in my head. On the one hand, you say you just want to get to know me as a person, not just as an actress, but on the other hand, there are a bunch of people in your year with cameras and microphones just at the time when I was at your home? This situation is confusing” – Emma sat down on the sofa.
“I feel so betrayed and abused” she made a pause and continued “you are the same just like everyone out there!”
“Wait, wait, what is this supposed to mean?” – David was confused. “Are you blaming me for all the mess? I am not the one who informed the media that you were here!”
So how do you explain this? These people must have been informed by someone and that someone is you. I should have left at the moment when I saw that Harry Potter collection. I am so stupid.”
“That is insane. I did not do that. I am a fan of yours, but I just wanted to get to know you. This is not my plan. You are so wrong!” – David was desperate.
“I don’t believe you anymore David!”
The weather was cloudy and it started to rain. Emma was sitting quietly on the sofa and David was sitting on the chair in the opposite direction of her. Both of them could hear the raindrops outside because no-one was trying to say something. It was very quiet in the room, but it was not peaceful at all.
“I think I should go now” – these words broke the silence in the room.
“But, wait, where are you going?” – David tried to stop Emma from leaving his house and maybe leaving his life too.
“I don’t know, but I am definitely not staying here in this place where I feel betrayed and used. I do not know what would I do next, but I am not staying here with you David.”
“Well, okay, I understand your feelings and I can only imagine how you feel right now, but could you please listen to me one more time?” – David was very upset.
“No, David, please, I am tired of hearing the same story over and over again from different people. I need some space to think about this mess, about everything that happened lately. I am so tired and confused and stressed...” – Emma was interrupted by David.
“It is okay, Emma, I get it. You can go now. I apologize for everything, but it was not my fault at all. I did not want things to end up like this. I am sorry…” – David tried to hide the disappointment on his face.
It was really dark and cold outside. The rain seemed to become heavier and the trees were shaking like they were scared of the wind. Emma could not think of a place where she could go now. She was just wandering the streets alone. She passed the restaurant where she met David for the first time and she decided to go there for a warm cup of coffee. There were just a few people so she did not need to hide and she could finally relax for a bit.
The waiter approached her and asked “Hello young lady. Can I get you something?”
“Oh, yes a cup of coffee, please. No sugar.” – Emma replied.
“Right away Miss.” – The waiter seemed indecisive as he wanted to ask something. After a few seconds, he asked the question “Sorry, it is none of my business, but you seem like you need some company. Mr. David is not here with you and he is such a great man. He has been coming to this restaurant for 6 months now, he is very generous also. He leaves enormous tips” – The waiter smiled.
“And Miss, I wanted to let you know that some people asked for Mr. David’s home just after you and Mr. David left the restaurant. I know that you are a popular star, so I wanted to let you know, maybe you are in trouble, but it is nothing serious. This is a small place, we are like…” – The waiter seemed like he would talk forever and Emma interrupted him.
“It is okay, I get you. Thanks for telling me this. Here is some money for the coffee, I do not need it and keep the rest as a tip.”
Emma rushed out the restaurant and went straight to David’s house. She was wrong. She had rung the bell and David opened the door.
“I want to talk to you David.”
At first, David was confused. He did not expect to see Emma again, except on TV. In fact, he was astonished and he could not hide how surprised he was. After a few seconds, he decided to change his look on his face like this situation was not weird for him at all. His heart was pounding and millions of possible scenarios were running through his head. He wondered why Emma was there in front of his door after she left without listening to his explanations.
David decided to play hard to get so he replied “I do not know if there is even something we can discuss about because as I remember you left and said there is nothing we should talk about..” he noticed that Emma was annoyed by his comment, so he decided to control himself a little because at least she had the courage to come back. “Anyway, please come in. It is really cold outside, you are all wet.”
Emma sat on the couch and took off his jacket. “Do you like some tea; you know I still do not have any coffee. – David smiled. He was glad Emma was there on his sofa again.
“Yes, please. I think a cup of tea will be great. I am all wet. I am afraid I will catch a cold.” – Emma sneezed.
“Oh, I am sorry. I can lend you some of my clothes if you want to feel more comfortable. And here is the hairdryer. Your hair is so wet.”
“Oh, no! It is okay. The hair dryer is enough. Do not worry!” – Emma liked the attention she was receiving from David. Now she was certain that the waiter at the restaurant was telling the truth just like David did.
Emma dried her hair. While she was drinking the tea David was preparing snacks for them. When he brought the snacks Emma was nervous because she did not know how David will react to what she wanted to tell him.
“Look, David. I am here to apologize to you. I am sorry for not believing in you, in everything you said. I accused you of calling the media, for being a freak, for wanting to abuse me and… I am sorry. You are a great man who wanted nothing else but my company; you are not just like the other... I am sorry. I am not used to people being nice to me without expecting something in return.
David was excited and very happy because finally, Emma realized that he was a good man.
“It is okay. I understand you. If I were you, I would react the same way. Do not worry. Let’s have a quiet evening. I think we deserve this after all the chaos which happened.
“I cannot believe we made it” – David was looking at Emma with love sparkles in his eyes.
“I know, I still cannot believe that we survived the media chaos after announcing that we are together now. My eyes still hurt from the flashlight during the last year. The paparazzi have been following us for a year and they finally got all the juicy details about our relationship” – Emma laughed.
“I know. But there is still something our love needs to survive and to be honest, I am a little bit worried about it. In fact, I am very nervous about meeting our parents. They will be here any minute. Does my hair look good?” – David was a bit trembling.
“Don’t worry; everything will be fine you will see. They will like you. In fact, they do not have to like you. You are in a relationship with me with them. Relax, you look great and everything will be fine.” – Emma tried to console him.
“I know, but for them, I am just… just an ordinary guy. I am not famous, I do not have a lot of money. I do not know. I am afraid they will be against this love.”
“Oh, come on David. Don’t make this situation so dramatic like this is a love between Romeo and Juliet. We survived the worst and now we should enjoy the best and forget about the rest.”
“I don’t know” – It seemed like David did not believe the words that Emma was saying.
“Oh, here they are.” – The bell had rung and Emma opened the door. “Come in! You have arrived finally. I am eager to introduce you to David.
David was sitting on the sofa and when Emma’s parents entered the room, he stood up.
“Madam, sir, nice to meet you. My name is David” – They shook hands.
“Nice to meet you, David. Emma told us so much about you and, I must admit, I could not wait to meet you! - Emma’s mother tried to make this situation more pleasant and comfortable.
“Oh, the pleasure is mine” – David tried to sound polite.
During the lunch Emma’s mother asked a lot of questions about David’s past, his education, his family, his ambitions and his career. It seemed more like an interrogation in a police station rather than a family lunch. David tried to be as polite as possible in order to leave a good first impression. After the lunch, they moved to the living room in order to have a coffee. Emma’s mother seemed like she was not satisfied with the answers.
“Emma, could you come for a moment in the kitchen. I cannot find anything here. I really want a cup of well homemade coffee”
“Yes, mom, I am coming”
When Emma entered the kitchen, her mother seemed angry and looked at her with a glare.
“Wait, what’s wrong” – Emma asked her mother.
“How do you mean Emma? Don’t you see! This man is a gold digger. He is into your money”
“Oh, mom, stop! That is not true. He has a heart of gold”
“No, Emma, that is not true. This man just wants you because of your money.”
“I am not going to listen to this right now.” – Emma left the room.
“Emma, come here! I am talking to you! – Emma’s mother was furious.
“Is there something wrong Emma? I heard your mother calling your name” – Emma’s father was a little bit worried about the situation.
“No, dad, everything is fine. You know, I and my mother always have some arguments. Do not worry”.
“Oh, okay. Is she still in the kitchen? I will check on her.”
“Yes, dad. She is there. And please let her know that David and I are waiting for the coffee.”
Emma’s mother and father came into the living room after a minute. Emma’s mother brought the cups of coffee and put them on the table.
“So David, what are you doing for a living?”
“Well, I do some charity work at the moment. I love helping the elderly.”
“So, you want to say that you are unemployed.”
“Well, I got a wage working with the elderly. The authorities in the hospital have provided me with a small wage. I own my house, so I don’t need much”
“Hmm, what about your education? Have you been to university?”
“Well, I haven’t. My parents could not cover the university fees and I applied or a scholarship, but unfortunately, I did not get it.”
“And what about your future? Do you have any plans?”
“Well, not really. I do not like planning everything in advance. I like to go with the flow. I believe in destiny. The most important thing is to be happy.
David seemed a little uncomfortable. He tried to give Emma’s parents a good first impression, but somehow it did not work out. In the beginning, it seemed like everything was going well, but now it seems like Emma’s mother has even more questions for him and David must answer everything correctly in order to accomplish his mission.
“It’s getting late. I really need to go. I have some work to do. “– David took his jacket from the hanger in the hall and it seemed like he was running away from something. He was confused and nervous.
“No David, wait. Do you have some time for a stroll in the park? The weather is sunny and it seems like you really need some fresh air.” – Emma was a little worried. He could only imagine what he was going through.
“No, Emma. You have guests. I know that your parents do not visit you very often, so I think you should spend more time with them. It is okay, I will call you tomorrow. “
“It is okay David. Just one hour. I think my parents will not mind. In fact, they also need a rest. My father was driving the whole morning just to get here. Right, dad?”
“Yes, sure Emma, do not worry. You can go out. Your mother and I will clean the table and after that, I will have a nap. We will wait for both of you for a dinner. There is a lovely restaurant down the street. I really think we should spend some time together. I really enjoyed your company, David. It was nice talking to you.” – David and Emma’s father shook hands.
“It was a pleasure for me too Mr. Watson. Nice talking to you. Please pass my greetings to Mrs. Watson. It was a pleasure to meet you. Emma was talking about you a lot.” – David tried to look calm.
“No problem. See you soon.”
David and Emma left the house. David was anxious and did not know how to react. He tried to give his best to leave a good impression, but he did not manage to. \
“What is wrong? Are you upset about the meeting with my family?” – Emma tried to help David.
“I do not know what I did wrong. I tried my best to look calm and to be as polite as possible. I really wanted to leave a good impression. This is important for me. I know that your parents are very important in your life and I wanted to…” – David was more confused than ever.
“David, you do not know my mother. She has always been suspicious about my boyfriends. That is just the way she is. She is just worried about me and she wants me to be happy. That is all. This is not about you believe me.”
“It did not seem this way. I do not know. I am afraid that your parents will not like and that it will affect your decision to be with me”. – David’s voice sounded really worried.
“No, believe me. Nothing will change my feelings, we survived everything and we will survive this too. Now go home. Relax, take a shower, have a coffee. After that, you can call me. You will feel better then.” – Emma tried to help.
“Okay, it has been a really stressful day. I will go home. Thank you, sweetie. I love you”
Emma went home. Her parents were waiting for her in the living room. Her mother was very nervous.
“Emma, sweetie... “– She began the conversation “you know that we love you the most and that we only want the best for you. I do not want to interfere with your decisions. You are a strong and independent woman and we respect and care about you.” – Emma interrupted her mother.
“Okay, mom. Please go to the main point of your monolog”
“Well, David is not the right for you. He is a gold digger. He only wants you for your money. He is only interested in your millions.”
“Mom, how have you figured it out from a 2-hour lunch? This can’t be possible” – Emma was furious.
“Well, think about this. He wants to meet with us, so he is rushing to get married and own your money. He has no job, no high education. The only thing he has is just ‘a heart of gold’. You are really innocent and naĂŻve Emma. I want to help you.
Emma was confused. What if all of this was true? – This doubt flashed through her mind.
“Emma, where is he now?”
“Home” – Emma replied.
“Why did he run away?”
“Because he was tired and he has something to do” – Emma replied.
“A lie! He went home because he knows that I know his intentions.”
“Please, mom stop! I will go upstairs. I really need to rest”
While she was going to her room, Emma was afraid that her mother was right. He really needed to think about all of this one more time. Her head was in chaos.
Emma did not feel very well. A lot of thoughts were running through his head. In the last 2 hours, a lot of things happened. She thought that it will be a lovely day with her boyfriend and her parents, but it turned out to be quite the opposite. On the one hand, she was certain when it comes to her feelings towards David, but on the other hand, her mother’s words made sense. What if all of that was true? What if her mother was right? What if David really loves her? In that case, she will lose a true love that makes her so happy – happier than ever. She decided to have a nap and hopefully, all of her problems and thoughts would fade when she wakes up. Emma took her soft blanket and her pillow. Now, her bed seemed to be more comfortable than ever. The bed seemed to be the solution to all of her problems. She decided that it is time to relax a bit otherwise she will become insane. She started thinking about some great place where everyone is happy, where everyone has a smile on their faces in a stress – free environment. After a few minutes, she fell asleep.
Meanwhile, David was really anxious. He knew that he had to do something really quickly, but he did not know what. He was wandering around the room trying to come up with a solution for this mess. Now his problem was even bigger than before. Now it was time to convince Emma’s mother that he is in love with her. First, he tried to convince her and now he had to do the same with her mother. He was desperate because he was aware that he could not do anything that will convince Mrs. Watson to believe him. It was getting really late. It was almost midnight, but he could not fall asleep. He was thinking about Emma, about her parents and about the possible solution of the problem. He had the hopes that the next day will be a new beginning for him and for Emma.
The next morning David went to Emma’s home. He was exhausted. He could not sleep all night long. So, he decided that it was time to have an honest conversation with Mrs. Watson and clear it up. He rang on the doorbell.
“Oh, good morning David. Honestly, I did not expect to see you here. What a surprise! – David could feel the tone of irony in Mrs. Watson’s voice. He decided to stay calm and talk to her.
“Good morning Mrs. Watson. I am glad you are still here. I just wanted to s….” – David was interrupted by Mrs. Watson.
“If you want to talk to Emma, I just want to let you know what she is not here and probably would not come back until lunch, so I am sorry that you wasted your time. I am sure you had something else to do today.” – Mrs. Watson smiled.
“Good. I do not come for Emma. I am here because I want to talk to you about something important.” – David was persistent.
“I am not sure that we have some pending conversation David. With all my respect, I kindly ask you to leave now, because I am so busy right now”
“Who is that mom? – Emma asked from the living room.
“No one, sweetie.” – replied Mrs. Watson.
“It is me, Emma. Please let me in” – David sounded desperate.
Emma came in the hall - “David, what are you doing here”?
“We need to talk” – David answered.
At that moment something unbelievable happened. The sky turned gray and the wind turned into a tornado. There was a terrible storm. Everyone was in a panic. People were running, trying to find a place where to hide. It was really dangerous.
“David, mom, come here in the basement. We need to survive this. It is an apocalypse. Hurry up!” – They all were in a panic.
It was really horrible. A lot of people died. There was an earthquake a tornado and a terrible storm. Everything was ruined. Just for a couple of hours, everything was ruined. There was nothing felt. No humans, no infrastructure, no animals – nothing. It was an apocalypse. Emma was right. They found out about all of this when they got out of the basement. They were terrified. They were crying because of the situation, but on the other side, they were aware how lucky they were to be alive and to be the only four people to survive this chaos.
Mrs. Watson was crying. “I am sorry David. I was very cruel to you. All of this should have happened in order to understand how wonderful man you are. You saved me. You dragged me to the basement and saved my life. I am so glad my daughter was right. I really would like you to be my son-in-law.”
The truth was that David was feeling relieved because this whole situation with Emma’s mother was finally over. But on the other hand, there was nothing around them. They were the only 4 survived humans on the planet. Emma’s house was not in a really bad condition and that was a miracle. The roof was a little damaged, but everything else was in perfect conditions, except her front and backyard. There was no front door and some of the windows were broken. Despite all, they were happy that they were alive, everything else could be fixed. Luckily, there was some coffee left in the kitchen and that was a ‘the survival juice’ for Emma and David. All four of them poured some coffee into their cups and sat on the sofa in the living room in silence.
It was a really complicated situation for all of them. A lot of things happened in the past 24 hours so all of them really needed to think carefully and to come up with a solution on how to continue living their lives because this was a disaster.
“I cannot believe this!” – Emma broke the silence.
“Me neither” – David continued. “I must admit that in the last 24 hours my life has been really stressful and a lot of things happened to me. I was worried about the meeting with you Mr. and Mrs. Watson, because I swear I did not have any other hidden intentions with your daughter. Emma is the love of my life. I am so glad that we managed to solve this misunderstanding, but... I think this is so over the line... I mean…. I cannot believe we are the last 4 humans on this planet. This is a disaster. I think that I might be homeless now. I could only imagine what happened to my house. I have been saving my whole life in order to buy my house and now it is gone…. I can’t believe it...
David was confused just like all of the other people in the room. They wanted to console him, but they could not find the words to do it because they were in a similar situation. Emma was the only one who had a house for now.
“I understand David” – Emma’s father tried to say something in order to contribute to David’s miserable monologue. “My wife and I seem to be in the same situation. I have no idea what is happening in our neighborhood with our home. I cannot believe we ended up all alone. There are no more people. I feel such sadness for all of our friends and relatives. Now, Emma and you are the only thing we have left. I am so glad you and my wife finally compromised and solved your issue… This is so terrible!
“I can only imagine Mr. Watson” – David stood up from the sofa.
“I am sorry, I will leave now. It seems a bit dangerous now outside, but I want to see my house. I can’t sit here forever wondering what might have happened to my home.
“No, David, wait.” – Emma was socked. “I understand, but you can’t go alone. Something might happen to you. I can’t leave you like this. I will come with you.”
“Emma, David himself said that it is so dangerous. I will come with you. In fact, we can all go together. What else can we do here? We will all go. Just a second, I will be right back.” – Emma’s dad went upstairs to take something and came down.
After an hour of walking they managed to come in front of David’s house. It was ruined. Everything was demolished. David was crying. It was a terrible moment. Everything was ruined around them - all the buildings, the gardens, and the road. It was just like a different universe. David was crying and crying.
“Oh my God, what a terrible dream! David woke up. It was almost midnight. He was so tired because of the situation with Emma’s parents that he fell asleep while thinking how to solve the misunderstanding. On the one hand, he was glad that it was just a dream. We have his house now and everything is just like usual. There were other houses and people, but also there is the problem with Emma’s parents. What if Emma changes her mind? And there he was at the beginning again. At least his nightmare was over, but now he had to think how to convince Emma’s mother that he loved Emma more than anything.
One more day passed and as the days were passing by, David was more and more nervous about this whole situation with Emma’s mother. He was feeling like he has no longer control over the situation and like Emma was slipping from his hands. He was so in love with her and after everything they had been through he could not let this become just one more relationship in the past. He struggled a lot with his inner self to convince Emma how madly he is in love with her. He was so afraid that she would not accept him with all of his positive sides and his flaws. Just because of this simple reason, he decided to keep his secret to himself and he did not tell Emma the whole truth about who he really is. Emma’s mother now is pushing him in a way to tell Emma the truth, even though she was not aware of it. She had the ability to recognize that David was hiding something from Emma, but she could not interpret what it was actually. In order to solve this misunderstanding, David had only one option at his disposal and it was very simple – he had to tell Emma and her parents the truth about his past and also his present.
He wore a white nice shirt in a combination with black pants. He combed his hair nicely and put some perfume and lotion. He wanted to feel good and look good in order to increase a bit his self – esteem. He locked the door of his house and went straight to Emma’s house. While he was walking towards the place, he noticed that Emma rang several times in the morning. He did not want to return her calls because he knew that she would notice that something was happening and he did not want to sound nervous on the phone. He rang one more time, but he denied the call and decided to hurry up.
He was finally there. He rang the doorbell twice and was waiting for someone to open the door. He was hoping that it would be Emma and not someone else. Unfortunately, it was Emma’s mother.
“Good morning, Mrs. Watson. Nice to see you again. Is Emma home?” – David tried his best to sound as usual.
“Hmm, good morning David. I did not expect that you will come again at least while we are staying here, but okay I guess Emma would like to see you one more time, you know just to clear some things up” – She put a fake smile on her face.
David entered the living room. There were Emma and his father sitting on the sofa. Emma seemed pretty surprised when she saw him.
“David!? I did not expect you here as you did not return any of my calls. I think we need talk in private now” – Emma was a bit worried.
“No, Emma. We all need to talk. I am glad your parents are also here because they also need to hear this.”
“No, this is between you. Darling, let’s go for a walk and leave them alone” – Mr. Watson tried to be polite.
“No Mr. Watson, please stay here. I would like you to be here” – David replied.
“Yes, I would not miss this for nothing in the world” – added Mrs. Watson.
David began “You were right Mrs. Watson. I am hiding something from Emma and from all of you. With your mother instinct, you noticed that I was trying to hide something, but it is not what you mean that it is.” – David made a pause.
“Go on David. We are listening” – replied Mrs. Watson with pride in her voice.
“I have my own money Mrs. Watson do not worry about me wanting to enjoy Emma’s money. I am a lawyer and I defend criminals in the court. I defend people who had done some very terrible and nasty things. I have a degree and I have a job and I have my money, I am not into Emma’s money. I love her without any other intention.” – David finished.
They were all shocked and could not say a word, especially Emma. They sat in silence for a minute. Emma tried to get up from the sofa, but she could not.
“I am not feeling well” – Emma fainted.
“Emmaaa!” – They all screamed at the same time.
“Oh, honey, please react! Emma, please respond” – Mr. Watson was trying to lift her from the ground and put her on the sofa. He checked her pulse and everything was fine.
“Oh, dear God. I will call 911. My only daughter, oh, I cannot believe this! This was a huge shock for her.”- Mrs. Watson was panicking. She did not know how to react, but she knew that she must do something in order to save her daughter. Her husband seemed to know how to handle the situation because at least it looked like he was aware of what he was doing.
Mrs. Watson splashed her with water on her face and started shaking her. Mr. Watson was massaging her feet and was praying for her to wake up. David was feeling guilty ad he did not know what to do. He was just standing in the middle of the room trying to figure out what has just happened because he did not expect this scenario at all. He imagined a lot of possible scenarios in his head, but he did not think about this at all. He was just staring at Emma and hoping that she will wake up at any moment and after a few seconds she finally opened her eyes.
“Emma, thank God! Oh sweetie, we were so worried about you. How are you feeling? Are you feeling good? Do you want some water or something? – Emma’s mother seemed relieved but she was still in a panic, hoping that Emma will say something that will calm her pounding heart.
“I feel dizzy, I feel a terrible pain in my head, please stop talking” – Emma looked exhausted and fragile.
“Yes, sweetie, we will not say anything, but please let us know whether you feel good. In case you don’t feel well we can take you to the hospital, so that the doctor will see whether everything is okay. What do you say about that?” – Mr. Watson explained how worried he was, but it seemed like Emma was not listening.
“I just want to sleep” – That was the only reply of Emma.
“Yes, sure sweetie, I will cover you with your blanket.” – Emma’s mother went upstairs to take Emma’s blanket from her bedroom.
“Excuse me Mr. Watson, I will go home. I think you do not need me here anymore. In this situation, I think that I am the last person that Emma would like to see at the moment. I will talk to you as soon as she feels better” – David sounded worried.
“Yes, young man. You need to go home now. There is a long conversation waiting for you and Emma. But now, you must go. Emma does not need to be more upset.” – Emma’s father was talking without looking at him in order to show him that now he was also mad at him just like his wife and Emma.
David left Emma’s house. He could not remember how many times he had left this house with the feeling of guilt, regret, worry and anxiety. He was feeling like he was sinking more and more and there was no one and nothing that could save him. He decided to have a long walk in order to clear his mind and his thoughts. He was wandering the streets with his hands in his pockets trying to figure out what went wrong. After hours and hours of walking he realized that only because he was scared at the beginning to tell her the truth, now he has to deal with the consequences. The fault was hidden in David’s thoughts. He was afraid from the very beginning to tell her who he really was. He had millions of chances, but he still could not do it. He was feeling like all of this was his fault. Even though he gave his best, this relationship did not work. He was still in love with Emma, even more than before, but he was disillusioned because every time he tried to fix things it turned out to be worse even more than before.
He took off his shoes and went straight to bed. He was feeling tired, but more mentally than physically. He was feeling guilty and the guilt did not let him sleep. He kept thinking and thinking, when all of the sudden his phone rang. His vision was blurred, but when he tried to see better in the screen he realizes it was Emma. It seemed this night will be one more long night for him.
“Hello” – David answered the phone like he had something in his throat.
“Hi, David, thank God you answered. I thought that something has happened to you too. I have just woken up, but I think I will fall asleep soon again. The medications made me sleep all day. Anyway, how are you? I really think we should have a serious conversation, but not now I am exhausted! Can you please come tomorrow at my house?”
“I am fine. I am glad you feel better now. I was so worried about you.” – David was relieved.
“Do not worry. That was a shock for my body. I will be all better tomorrow”
“However, about coming to your house tomorrow is not a really good idea. I mean your parents must be really mad at me. I do not know.... I am more interested in how do you feel about me and about this whole situation Emma. I do miss you!” – David was a bit desperate.
“I can’t talk about that now, David. Call me tomorrow, okay?”
“Sure, sweet dreams” – David hanged up.
The next morning, Emma’s parents were in the living room. They were having a cup of coffee and they were waiting for Emma to come down. They were talking about something and when they noticed Emma was coming down, they immediately stopped the conversation.
“Good morning, may I join your discussion?”- Emma tried to be funny.
“:No dear, it was nothing. Your father and I were talking about the news on TV” – Emma’s mother tried to avoid telling Emma what they were talking about.
“Mom, I am not 5 years old. Come on, tell me!
Mr. Watson was determined. “She is right. This may be a vulnerable topic for her, but she must get over it, so we must talk about it”
“Okay, fine. Darling, we were talking about your boyfriend David, if you can still call him like that!” – Emma’s mother was sarcastic.
“Okay, yes, you can still call him my boyfriend. And what about him?
“Well, your father and I tried to find some reasonable explanation about his secrets and about his recent behavior. I mean, you must admit, his whole situation is just a mess. Why would a person hide that he was a successful career as a lawyer and he was hiding it from you for a long time. I mean there is nothing to be ashamed of. I have been thinking about his the whole morning and I still cannot come up with the reason why he did his”
“Your mother is right sweetie. He should have told us about his education and his career over lunch when we first arrived. Especially, when your mother kept asking on and on about that. And in that very moment he decided not to tell.” – Emma’s father was also worried about the situation.
“Unless, he did something that he is ashamed of, or he might have done something really terrible as a lawyer” – Emma’s mother proposed one possible reason.
“I must admit I have been thinking about this too the whole morning, but it seems like I cannot figure this out too” – Emma shared their opinion.
“You know, I have a friend who works at the local court. She is a lawyer too. She may know David and she can tell us some things about him. Do you agree Emma?”
“I do not know, mom. I think it may be better to wait for David and hear his explanation.”- Emma wanted to give the chance to David first.
“Well, sweetie, we gave him millions of chances and he waited until the last time and moreover, he did not tell us the whole truth. How many chances should we give him? I think I should call Julien. She is a very good friend of mine and if there is anything bad about David’s career she will tell me. She is a nice person. She will keep this to herself. She is not a chatty person. In fact, she really likes you. When you were a little girl, she believed in you that you will become a great star one day on the big screen.”
“Mom, stop. I want to ask David first.” – Emma raised her voice a bit.
Suddenly David appeared in the room.
“I am here now. There is no need to call someone. You can ask me anything. I am ready!
“David, I did not hear the bell ringing. Sorry, we were in a middle of a discussion!” – Emma tried to make the situation less uncomfortable for everyone in the room.
“Yes, I somehow overheard your conversation and I think it is a high time I solve the issue and make things clear. I know that you probably have a lot of questions, so here I am.” – David was determined, but Emma’s mother had a sarcastic comment on David’s statement, as always.
“Well, you finally find the courage to tell us the truth, David. You are aware that since the first day I have clearly let you know that I know that you were hiding something. I will not let you hurt my daughter...” – Emma’s mother was interrupted by her husband who wanted to make the situation less tense.
“It is okay, darling. Let David say what he wants to say.”
“Well, you are right. He finally decided to face the reality. Anyway, I will give you a chance or I will call my dear friend Julian. So, you choose!” – Emma’s mother tried to be harsher with David.
“Mother, stop! Don’t you think that this is my life and my boyfriend? I think that I might be invisible, because everyone in this room is speaking just like I am not present here. Stop it. I am so sick and tired to hear what everyone has to say except for me. It seems like you know more for me than I. This is so ridiculous. I will talk to David in private and please respect my decision! – Emma was furious.
“No, Emma I will say it now loudly and clearly.” – David was opposing.
“I refused to tell you the truth to all of you, not because I did something terrible, but because I succeeded in something I am not proud of. Some people consider it as a big success in my career, but I do not agree with that. It was very a very confusing period of my life because on the one hand, I was happy because I won, but on the other hand, it was not a very human act and the truth is that I needed some time to rethink all the events that happened in that period. So, instead to face with it, I decided to bury it deep in my memories and not to think about it ever again. So, when all of you asked about my career and my job I decided not to tell you because I did not want to go through it all over again” - It seemed like David had no intention to finish his monologue.
“Oh, David! For God’s sake, make it short. I am on my last nerve. Come on! This is like a movie scene from a romantic tragedy! - Emma’s mother was fed up from all of this drama.
“You are right Mrs. Watson. We finally agreed on something.” – David was feeling like something was blocking his breath all the time while he was speaking.
“I defended a serial killer – and I won! – David confessed.
In the room was quiet and no one dared to say something. They were all shocked and did not know how to react. David decided to stop this unpleasant silence in the room so decided to go on telling about this experience.
“There are two persons inside me. The one is very proud of what I did because it was a huge step forward in my career, but there is also the other person who feels very bad about that. It is a feeling as I have betrayed the families the victims, but all I did was part my job. So, I did not want to look like a monster on our first meeting Mrs. Watson, and that is because I decided not to tell the truth. I was also in the newspapers and on TV, so I was afraid you would recognize me.”
Emma’s mother did not say a word. She took a glass of water and went out in the garden. Mr. Watson left the room and went upstairs because everyone needed some alone time to think about this. David and Emma were alone in the room.
“David, why did not you tell me? I would have understood it. You know that my feelings for you are real.” – Emma took David’s hand.
“I did not want to give you a very bad first impression of me Emma. Please, believe me; I have no other intentions than to be with you and to love you with my whole heart. First was the Harry Potter collection, then the media, then your parents. I thought you would not handle the pressure.” – David was very sad. Just like Emma. Emma was feeling betrayed, but she was trying to overcome that feeling because she was still in love with him.
“Could you please forgive me?” – David was hoping for Emma’s forgiveness.
“I am not sure, David. Please give me some time to think”
David got home very disappointed. This was his scenario for quite some time. In the mornings he would go to Emma’s house with a lot of dreams and hopes, but in the evenings he always comes home very disillusioned and miserable. This time everything was said and the things were clear now. This seemed like the perfect solution for the situation and David decided to go for it and hoping that all of this will come to its end eventually. Unfortunately, nothing was as he hoped for. It was another cold night in his house; he was all alone with millions of thought running through his head and wondering if it all will be just like at the beginning when both of them were happy and in love.
With a cup of coffee, David was sitting next to the window. It was quite late but there were some people walking down the street holding hands and laughing. It all looked so simple, but for David love was an essential need and an endless pain at the same time. While he was drinking his coffee only one thought was keeping him awake – Will Emma ever forgive him?
The scenario was not much different for Emma too. She had the feeling that nothing will change. It seemed like her love was not really sufficient to cure her soul. She was lying in her bed and thinking about the recent events. Her phone rang. He immediately got off his bed hoping that she will see David’s number on the screen. Unfortunately, it was her manager.
“Hey, John! What’s up? – Emma tried to look cheerful
“Emma where are you? You have not returned my calls. What is going on? We have a premiere coming soon. The media is looking for you and for your interview. We must meet tomorrow to discuss the upcoming events.”
“It’s okay John. I understand. I am tired now. Talk to you tomorrow” – Emma hung up.
David was her only thought. She kept thinking and thinking and she realized that her love was greater than her sadness. Nothing really mattered. David has proven that he was the one. They are losing precious time.
“I miss you. Must see you now.” – that was the text message David has received at 1 am. He was so excited. The excitement was running through his bloodstream.
“Coming right away my baby. Love you”- David texted her and went straight to her house. Emma was waiting for him in the front yard.
David arrived in front of her house. Emma was there and as soon as she noticed him there she hugged him.
“Please do not say anything. I love you and nothing really matters. Please forgive me for being so selfish and self-centered. If I was you, I would do the same, so please let’s not waste our time. If you agree, please just nod and do not say anything” – Emma was truly happy for the first time.
David was nodding and there was a huge smile on his face. They were kissing in the yard when they heard Mrs. Watson’s voice.
“Stay away from my daughter. You have crossed the line. I will not let you fool her anymore. I am so done with you!
David was surprised. This was not something he could predict.
“I am sorry madam. You know my intentions and my past, so there will be no more misunderstandings. I love her more than anything.” – David tried to sound determined and polite at the same time.
“Mom, this was enough. I love him and I will not let you decide for me. David is spending the night here” – Emma was a bit angry.
“So, does this means that I have no other choice?”- Emma’s mother asked.
“I am afraid you are right” – Emma answered.
Emma convinced David somehow to spend the night in her home. When the tensions lowered they finally had the time to spend some alone time without anyone and anything in between. They have been waiting for this moment for a long time and now it all seemed like a part of a fairy tale. In their fairy tale they were not Emma – the famous actress and David – the famous lawyer. They were just two ordinary people who fell in love with each other and enjoying these peaceful moments together.
Unfortunately, the morning has arrived so soon and they had to deal the reality again, only that this time the reality was a bit sweet with a bitter finish because the happy couple needed to convince Emma’s parents that what they had was real.
David woke up and went out of the room with the intention to go down the hall and go to the bathroom. When he opened the door of the room there was an unpleasant surprise waiting for him in front of the door. That was Emma’s mother waiting for him so that they could have a small chat alone before Emma wakes up.
David was shocked when he saw Emma’s mother there. He tried to be kind, but he was so shocked and in order to hide his sock he started talking really fast. “Good morning Mr. Watson! I did not expect you here really. How are you? Well... I suppose you feel a bit confused because of the recent events, plus seeing me here this morning I guess was not really pleasant for you, anyway I must say that I also feel stressed lately because of the situation and believe me, I am at your disposal I am ready to do anything or to reply to all of your questions just to clear this situation believe me I…” – David was finally interrupted by Mrs. Watson
“David for God’s sake shut up and come with me in the kitchen. I have been waiting for you in front of the door for hours. I do not want Emma to wake up before we talk” – Mrs. Watson glared at him.
“It is too late mom. I am awake. I guess we can all come downstairs and enjoy in a family breakfast. And do not try to speak with David alone. We are together now and we will solve this together in a peaceful way.” – Emma was yawning. Emma’s mother left and while walking down the hall, she shouted “Come on honey, get up! Emma and David want to discuss something again.”
After 20 minutes all four were sitting in the dining room and they were eating quietly. Emma’s mother was trying to say something, but right before she wanted to say something she would give up and take a sip from her coffee.
“I can’t just sit and eat. What is going on here again? Why are you still together?” – Emma’s mother finally popped the question all of them wanted to discuss.
“The answer is simple! We love each other. We have solved all of our doubts, problems and answered each other’s questions and now we are happy and satisfied. That is all. And now I want you to accept David.” – Emma finished her monologue.
“Emma, this is not a scene in a theater. Stop saying some meaningless words from a fairy tale. We all have been upset for you, despite David of course! “– Mrs. Watson was speaking with irony again.
“Darling, stop it, please. Let them say what they want to say” – Mr. Watson tried to calm the tension in the room.
“I will say it now! “ – David was determined. “I love Emma and she loves me too. There have been some problems between us. Firstly, she did not believe me, and then I convinced her. Then you did not believe me, and then you found out about my career hat I wanted to hide from you because I was not really proud of some events. I want to apologize for everything. I am aware this was not a very good start. I understand that you are very important for Emma and that is why I want to ask you for your forgiveness with the promise that I will love her unconditionally and forever.”- David finished his speech.
“And now that was a monologue from a scene in a theater. I raise my glass with juice for David. I know that you are honest. You have my forgiveness and support young gentleman. May both of you be happy forever.” – Mr. Watson was smiling with joy I his eyes.
“I must admit. Emma’s father is right. I forgive you David. I want to apologize too. I was sometimes rude, but Emma is my daughter. I love her and I do not want her to suffer. I hope that from now on we can get along” – Mrs. Watson finally smiled.
“I love you mom and dad. This is one of the happiest days in my life”
“This is a great day for a brand new beginning, don’t you think it too David?” –Emma’s face was very bright and she was smiling.
“Yes, I do. It was high time!”
Emma’s phone was ringing all the time. It was her manager.
“Who is calling all the time?”
“It’s my manager. There is some event coming and he wants to discuss the details” Emma replied.
“Aww, so boring! But I have an interesting idea! Please turn off your phone and I will do as well with mine. We deserve a break. Let’s go somewhere where there will be no people, no media, and no phones. Just you and me! What do you think?”
Emma pretended like she was thinking about the idea.
“Hmm, I don’t know. I am not sure if I want to spend a whole day with you.”
“Oh, you must be kidding” – David was frowning.
“You bet I am Mr. David. I can’t wait! “– Emma was blissfully happy.
“Great, take the things you need. I will be back in 10 minutes just to prepare the car. A friend of mine has a cabin in the woods. We can spend the day there. It is very lovely and cozy. We can relax and enjoy! Only there is one rule. No phones allowed!” – David turned off his phone.
“I love it! I will be waiting for you in front of the house, but please give me a kiss. I will miss you these 10 minutes while you are away” – Emma was happier than ever.
Two hours later, David and Emma have arrived. The place was just like in a fairy tale.
“I love this place” – Emma was amazed. “Look at the forest and these lovely flowers. Everything is perfect! This is what I have been dreaming of all the time during our difficult period”
“Please, do not think about that! Come inside. Let’s make something for lunch. We can eat it on this lovely balcony outside. And we can also enjoy the sounds of the nature” – David grabbed the bags and went inside.
Both of them were in the kitchen making lunch. It was the most delicious lunch they have ever made. David had some really good skills when it came to cooking and Emma made a very delicious dessert. After they had finished making the lunch, they went out on the balcony. They enjoyed the view with a glass of wine while they were having lunch. Everything was more than perfect!
It was dusk already, but they did not notice because they were having such a great time.
“Darling, the day has ended. Can I turn on my phone? I really need to talk to John.” – Emma was a bit worried.
“Yes, sure! I will do so” – David replied.
When David turned on his phone, he received thousands of messages from his mother to call her back. He was worried a bit because he talks to his mother once in a week, so this was a really strange behavior. David decided to return the call.
“Hey, mom! I see you called. Is everything all right?” – David sounded a bit worried.
“You finally called! When were you going to tell me about the girl? I cannot believe I had to find out from the newspapers. And she looks familiar also.”
“Yes, mom. She is an actress. She had a role in the Harry Potter movies.”
“Oh, lord! I cannot believe this. Not her! It seems like I have not taught you well.” – She hung up.
“Who was that David” – Emma asked.
David tried to react like the call did not upset him. “Oh, it was my mother. She just wanted to ask how I was doing. That is all”- he kissed Emma in the forehead as a sign to calm her before the storm arrives again.
“Oh, okay. I suppose she knows about me”
“Well…” – David was a bit confused. On the one hand, he did not want to upset Emma, but on the other hand, he did not want to tell her the truth because that will mean an ending of their happiness and a new beginning of the previous torture they had.
He continued after the pause, “I think she does. I have just mentioned to her that I am seeing a girl, but with all the drama in the past days I can’t remember we spoke about you. I will tell her eventually, do not worry, this day is all about us and our love. Please do not involve my mother in this” – David tried to finish this unpleasant conversation.
Emma somehow sensed that something was wrong. David could not hide this from her. She knew him very well. On the way home, David was really quite. He only said a few words. It was like he was not the same person that came into the woods this morning. Emma tried to avoid the topic to because she was not prepared for another drama. She was afraid if she asked what the matter was she would receive bad news and they would be at the beginning again, so she decided to talk about something else.
“What do you think about taking a vacation from work for two weeks? We can visit some exotic place and drink cocktails all day near the beach. It would be fantastic.”- Emma tried to sound cheerful and excited.
“Hmm, yeah!” - David was mumbling because he was afraid that if he says something more, he would be discovered. He was thinking how to solve this problem without hurting Emma, but he did not want to lie to her again. So, he decided to pretend like he was having a headache.
“Sorry, Emma I have a headache. Will discuss this some other day”
“Okay, I do not feel like talking either. I know that you are hiding something again from and that upsets me. Your doubt upsets me again. So, I just talk about some random stuff so that I can give you a chance to tell me what is going on” – Emma was nervous.
“Nothing is going on. I guess I am just a bit tired” – David tried to avoid the topic again.
“For God’s sake! You are using the same words and the same excuses, just like every other time you want to hide something from me. You are such a bad actor, just to let you know. I can say what a person means just by looking at his or her face. I am an actor, I have played a lot of roles, so do not try to hide it from me!” – Emma was furious.
At that moment, David’s phone started to ring. It was his mother. Emma took the phone just to see who was calling. When she saw that it was her, she felt a bit relieved not knowing that that call was the beginning of another misery!
“Do not even think that this call saved you from the situation and this discussion. Answer it and we will continue.”
David denied the call because he knew exactly what his mother was going to tell him. He did not want Emma to hear all of that, especially now when she was furious.
“No, I think this is more important. I will call her back later. So, you were saying?” – He tried to look indifferent.
Emma started talking again when his mother called one more time.
“David, answer it. Something bad might have happened” – Emma insisted to take the call.
“No, Emma I will call her back”
“Never mind, I will take the call” – David tried to take the phone from Emma’s hands, but she did not let him so she answered it.
“Hello, Mrs. This is Emma, David’s girlfriend. He is driving right now, so he could not take the call” – Emma tried to sound polite.
“Okay, I see. You play a big role in his life. Now because of you, I can’t even talk to him.” – David’ mother replied ironically.
“Is there something wrong?” – Emma was confused.
“No, sweetie, not at all! Please tell David to call me as soon as possible” – she hung up.
“What was that?” – Emma was even more confused.
“Well, that is the thing why I am quite and why I don’t tell you anything! - David was a bit ashamed.
The situation in the car was much wired after Emma finished the conversation on the phone with David’s mother. She was confused, because she has not even met that woman and she was behaving like that for no reason. At least, she thought there was no reason for that. On the other hand, David was feeling more responsible for the situation. Well, in fact, that was not his fault, but at least he could explain everything to Emma.
“Is this the reason for your sudden mood change?” – Emma asked David.
“Yes” – David bent his hand down. He was feeling miserable.
“Is there even any reason for that? Can you explain me please? I have been thinking about this for hours and I still can’t come up with a reasonable idea for all of this?” – Emma tried to look calm, but in fact she was very angry in the inside.
David stopped the car and they went out. They were like in the middle of nowhere. There was only a filed and a few trees. Only the sound of the bird could he heard in the distance.
“Look, Emma, my mother and I are not that close. We visit each other a few times in the year, a few calls for the holidays and that is all. She is a nice woman although sometimes she can be really bad –tempered. I have not told her about us”
“Why? Are you afraid of something? Do you think that she might not like me?
“No, you are so adorable. There is no way someone can say a bad word about you, it is just that…” – David was very worried and he could not continue talking.
“What David? Please tell me I can’t keep guessing anymore.”
“Well, she saw a photo of us in the magazines and she is assured that you are a bad person just because of the Harry Potter movie. There was an aunt of mine who was really into magic and witchcraft. She loathed my mother and one day some of my mother’s favorite stuff disappeared like her favorite jewelry, her favorite wooden decoration in the living room and some other things. So, she googled your name and she found out about your role in the movie” – David could not look Emma in the eyes.
“Oh, God! That is ridiculous!” – Emma was mad.
“I know it really sounds insane, but that is just who she is. Don’t worry, I will talk to her.”
“Well, I have a better Idea!” – Emma had a suggestion.
“What?” – David asked.
“Why don’t I go to talk to her? I can explain everything. We can also get to know better! What do you think?” – Emma asked David.
“I don’t know. I don’t want you to be disappointed.” – David was skeptical.
“I will call her” – Emma was excited.
“No, I will call her” – David dialed the number.
“Hey, mom. It’s me. I was wondering if you are free tonight so that we can meet. I am with Emma now so it can be a chance for you to meet?”
“Sorry, David, I do not need another witch in my home” – David’s mother was determinate.
“But, mom, she is my girlfriend. Just a cup of coffee. You will realize that you are wrong.”- David tried to convince her.
Emma took the phone from David’s hands. “Hi, Mrs. Simmons! I think I deserve a chance at least to explain, don’t you think so? Please do this, not for me, but for your son!” – Emma tried to sound convincingly.
“See you in one hour” – Mrs. Simmons ended the call
It was very tense in the car on the way to the house of David’s mother. Emma was anxious because she wanted to leave a great impression in order to chance David’s mother’s mind. She really wanted to make this thing work. They have had enough troubles, so they did not need one more on the list. Emma took some make up products from her bag and tried to look better for David’s mother.
On the other hand, David tried not to show how worried he was because of this situation. He wanted to look calm from the inside so that he will not make Emma even more anxious.
They were driving in silence, so while she was doing her makeup, Emma decided to break the silence.
“What are your mother’s favorite flowers?”
“Well, I do not know. I have never bought flowers for her in my life. I told you we are not that close. Don’t worry” – David’s answer surprised Emma.
“Please stop near a store. I want to buy something for her. Maybe roses and a box of chocolates. I mean we meet for the first time. I think it would be rude if I don’t give her anything on our first meeting.”
“Come on, sweetie. I know that you are upset right now, but you are so perfect just the way you are. The most important thing is that I love you and I would do anything to make you happy” – David tried to sound lovely.
“Okay, then, I believe you. So, it means that you will stop near the closest store, because you said you would do anything for me, would not you?”
“Oh, damn it! Fine, I will” – David laughed.
After they have bought some flowers and a box of chocolates, they were ready for the visit. Emma rang on the doorbell and after a few seconds a woman appeared at the door. She looked a lot like David. To Emma’s surprise, the woman was not alone. There was a man next to her.
“Good evening Mrs. Simmons! I am Emma. Nice to meet you” – both women shook hands.
“Hi, mom! Hi, dad! – David greeted them.
David’s mother avoided Emma and did not say anything to her, not even welcome. She went straight to David.
“Here you are. Nice to see you my sweetie. We missed you!
David’s father felt a bit uncomfortable because of this gesture so he tried to be polite with Emma.
“Come in, Emma! I am David’s father, nice to meet you!
“Thanks Mr. Simmons” – They all entered in the house.
After they sat on the sofa, David’s mother offered them with some coffee. After the usual conversation about the weather and the news on TV, David’s mother started the topic.
“So, David told me that you are into the witch things, or whatever they call it. I must admit, I loathe that! So, consequently, if you are part of it, I think that I am clear” – she sounded ironic.
“I am sorry to disappoint you, madam, but I am not a witch. I pretend that I am a witch in the movies. That means I am an actress. I understand that you must be upset because of some unpleasant things in the past, but I am nothing like that. I just play a role in a movie. That is not who I am. I hope you understand.” – Emma tried to be clear and polite in her explanation.
At that moment, her phone rang. Mrs. Simmons went to the kitchen and she was lucky that the phone interrupted the conversation because she was not sure what to reply.
“Hi, mom! What’s up?” – Emma answered the call.
“Hi sweetie! Where are you? Your agent is with me in the car” – It was Mrs. Watson.
“Mom, I am busy right now. Talk to you later! – Emma tried to finish the conversation.
“No, give me the address. I will come to pick you up.” – She insisted.
“No, mom. I am with David.”
“Oh, let’s all have a coffee somewhere. Was David’s car blue? I think I am looking at it right now. Your agent and I went to the mall here nearby. I think we are in the same neighborhood. Whose is this house?” – Mrs. Watson could not believe the coincidence.
“Mom, please stay there. This is David’s parents’ home. I will come out now! – Emma was very nervous.
“Don’t worry, sweetie. I will come in. And I will meet his parents so we all can have a cup of coffee. See you!” – Mrs. Watson hung up and went towards the front door.
Emma hung up and looked straight at David. From the glare in her look he realized that something was wrong.
“Sweetie, I need to talk to you. – Emma tried to sound like everything has been just fine.
“Now? Can’t it wait?” – David was surprised, especially knowing that Emma wanted to leave a positive impression in front of David’s mother.
“Right now! It can’t wait! It is in front of the door! – Emma was nervous now because David did not want to support her.
“Is there someone or something in front of my door? Oh, I knew it. This young lady is into magic, witchcraft and that kind of stuff. In fact, I can’t wait to see what this is now.”
David’s mother went straight to the front door. David looked at Emma and he was very confused. He did not know what to do. On the one hand, there was Emma and on the other hand was his mother who was acting like a traditional future mother in law. Moreover, there is someone else in front of the door about which Emma is panicking and David’s mother was curious about. It seemed like there is no end to this misery.
“Emma, what is going on?”
“You will see in a second” – Emma seemed disappointed.
Meanwhile, a truncheon as taken by Mrs. Simmons. She was afraid that something strange and unusual might appear in front of her because she was convinced that Emma was an evil person. Unfortunately, Emma and David were arguing in the room and they did not even notice what Mrs. Simmons was having with her.
On the other side of the door, Mrs. Watson was putting some lipstick on her lips and some blush on her chicks because she wanted to look good in front of David’s parents. She had no idea was about to happen.
When the door opened Mrs. Watson had a huge smile on her face. Mrs. Simmons did not even look who was that she just hit her with the truncheon without even saying a word.
At that moment Emma and David arrived and Emma started screaming because she could not believe that her mother is being hit by her probably future mother in law.
“Oh, I can’t believe this! – Emma was out of breath.
“Mom, stop it! That is Emma’s mother! – David was embarrassed.
“What, but how did she appear here? Is this because of your girlfriend’s magic? What is she even doing here? That is the last thing I need right now. - Another witch in my house.” – Mrs. Simmons seemed to have a lot of more questions about Emma and her family.
“Mom, stop it. You are embarrassing me! Call an ambulance. You may have hurt her. Emma is not feeling well too!”
“I heard someone saying an ambulance. What happened? I will call one, but what happened?” – Mr. Simmons arrived after a few minutes and he had no idea what had been going on.
“Dad, Emma’s mother has been injured by mom and all she wanted was to meet you, so I guess mom was not really worried to leave a good impression in front of Emma and her mother compared to Emma who has a kind soul and she only wanted you to like her…. and of course, not to hit her family with a truncheon. Where the hell did you get it from?”
The ambulance had arrived and took Emma and her mother to the nearest hospital.
“David, call my dad. He must be worried”
“Don’t worry, I will call him. Are you okay? – David was the one now who was worried.
“Yes, I am” – Emma closed her eyes.
David went with them to the hospital. While he was there he could not stop wondering how all of this mess will be solved.
. Soon after the accident, they arrived at the hospital. It was nothing complicated, just some bruises and the doctor advised to take a rest and prescribed them some herbal cream. David was glad that it was not something more serious. However, he felt so embarrassed that he could not look at Emma and also her mother.
“David, please call my father… He should have been here until now.”
“Yes, I am worried. We do not need another drama for tonight. I think we had enough for today! “– This was like a slap in David’s face.
“Mrs. Watson, I feel terrible. If there is anything else I could do, please let me know” – David tried to be polite and to apologize for his mother’s acts.
“As long as I and my daughter are far away from the violence of your family, I would be happy. Who knows, maybe you are just like your mother! My poor daughter! Have you beaten her sometimes?”
“Mom, please stop! You are exaggerating!
“No, Mrs. Watson! I am unable to hit a woman! That is a crime for God’s sake! I love her, there is no way I could be violent when it comes to Emma, please believe me!” – David was desperate.
“Only when it comes to Emma? That means that you can be violent to me, just like your mother!” – Mrs. Watson tried to make the situation look even worse than it actually is.
At that very moment, Emma’s father arrived and that was like a salvation for David from this unpleasant conversation.
“Are you okay? I am not sure if I had understood well. David’s mother did this to you?” – There was it not a salvation, but like putting fuel to the fire.
“Dad, we will talk about his later.” – Emma tried to put an end of this drama. Her parents went downstairs in the hall of the hospital and Emma stayed with David.
“Honey, I love you! I am sorry, I know that you have been trying to make an impression, but it does not matter, I love you and I just want to be with you! Please don’t be angry at me!”
“David, it is okay. I love you too! I won’t let this ‘parent’s mess’ to affect me or our love. I have to go now. I see you tomorrow! – Emma had kissed David and left.
David returned home. He was angry at his parents and he wanted to make them fix all of this because he considered that was their fault. He dialed his mother’s number. The machine answered, so he had to leave a message.
“Mom, I hope you are happy and satisfied with the role of an evil future mother in law. Anyway, I love her and I do not care if she is just a witch to you or some other thing. Be ready tomorrow at 8 o’clock. I am picking you up and we are going to Emma’s house so that you will apologize to all of them”
David hated being home alone at this time of the night. It was the hundred time that he was feeling miserable and desperate in this room because of some lousy mistakes. He dialed Emma’s number. She was not available on the phone so he also left her a message!
“Hey! Just to let you know that I am coming to your house tomorrow with my mom to apologize. I am sick and tired of this! I think we deserve something better. Will discuss the details tomorrow. Love you and sweet dreams!” – He hung up.
“No more excuses mom, I told you how important is she for me. Please, make this for me, not for them. I really think you owe me a favor.” – David was talking on the phone with his mother while he was looking for his keys.
“David, you know I love you, you are my only child and you know I would do anything just to make you happy. That is why, I don’t want to go there! I am not sure if I will be able to be near those women again. I think it may become even worse than it actually is!” - David’s mother insisted on not going.
“Mom, Emma is really upset and I want her to feel comfortable around you. This really affects my relationship with her. She really tried to impress you. Now is your turn to do something about that!” – David was also persistent.
“Fine! If you are not here in an hour, I am not coming”- Mrs. Simmons tried to sound serious.
“I am on my way!”
David bought some flowers and also a box of chocolates as a sign of a good will. The Simmons’s family was there in front of the door of The Watson family. David was feeling as he was watching a horror movie scene because of the adrenaline rush. He really wanted this to work because of Emma.
He knocked on the door waiting for someone to open it. Luckily, that person was Emma.
“Hello, what a surprise!” – The shock could be noticed on her face. She did not expect this. She remembered the message David left on the machine. However, this was not something she thought of.
David’s parents did not say anything.
“Please, come in! I was just preparing breakfast. I would be delighted if you want to join us. There is some coffee too!” – Emma was excited because of this visit and the anxiety and the excitement could be noticed. David mother decided to give this thing a fresh start so that David can be happy and feel comfortable again.
“It smells delicious darling! What is that? It smells like pancakes. I would like some with jam and a cup of coffee!” – She looked at her husband but he did not react at all.
“A cup of coffee for Harry too!”
“Right away Mrs. Simmons! Please have a sit here on the dining table.” – Emma wanted to leave a good first impression for the second time.
“Is your mother home, Emma? I brought her some flowers and chocolates. I wanted to apologize for the inconvenience the last time. You know, David probably told you about my past experiences, so you know, I have my own reasons. Anyway, I would be glad if she could accept my apology so that you two can be happy again!” – Mrs. Simmons tried to sound nice.
“No worried, Mrs. Simmons! She is resting upstairs, you know, the doctor told her to. I will let her know that you were here.” – Emma brought the cups of coffee and some jam and pancakes.
“No need to tell me anything Emma! It sounds to me that I have heard this before, but I cannot remember where. Probably, from some other liar too!” – That was the voice full of irony of Mrs. Watson. She was going down the stairs.
“Mom, stop it! Can’t you be nice this time? Do that for me and also for my love for David!” – Emma could anticipate a disaster approaching.
“So, what now? I should probably be impressed with the flowers and these chocolates and pretend that I like you? That would make me a hypocrite. After the incident you come to my house without even letting me know and now you expect me to believe you and pretend like nothing happened.” After a few moments, Mrs. Watson continued her monologue. “Oh, there is even a coffee for you! I guess that is a much better way to welcome someone in your home than kicking with a truncheon.”
“This was enough. I am here to apologize and you treat me like this? This is unbelievable. I am here because of David because I want to see him happy, but I will not tolerate this humiliation anymore!” – Mrs. Simmons wanted to leave.
“It was time! There is the front door” – Mrs. Watson showed towards the front door.
At that moment, both of the mothers were yelling and shouting. It was a mess.
“Come on Emma, let’s go! We deserve to be happy!” – Emma and David left the house while their mothers were still arguing inside.
“Honey, is everything okay? You have been staring outside the window for quite some time. What have you been thinking about?” – David asked Emma.
“Nothing. Just daydreaming! This has been the worst scenario ever.” – Luckily, this all was part of Emma’s daydreaming of the meeting of the two families.
“Mom, it is almost 11 o’clock! Is everything ready? David’s parents will be here any minute” –Emma was putting some make up, while her mother was in the kitchen.
“Yes, it is! Do not worry! I’ve got everything under control over here. You just need to get ready and look gorgeous as always that’s all!” – Emma’s mother tried to sound excited, but in fact, that was just a small scam so that Emma does not figure out that her favorite apple pie that was supposed to be served with some coffee for David’s parents was burned in the oven.
“Okay, thanks mom, you are the best! I am putting my earrings now and I will be back in a minute to help you in the kitchen. You must be really tired doing all the work.”
“No, do not worry. I am about to finish now.” – Emma’s mother was just gazing in the burned pie trying to figure out what do to next. Emma would be very disappointed if she found out that her mother failed her on this day. What is more, David’s parents will be there any minute.
Emma heard the bell ringing and went downstairs immediately. She looked in the mirror just to check her hair and makeup again before she opens the door. After taking a deep breath, she finally opened the door. There were they – David, Mrs. Simmons and Mr. Simmons.
“Hi and welcome! I am Emma, nice to meet you all” – Emma had a smile on her face and tried to sound as sweet and nice as possible.
“Hi, Emma! The pleasure is ours. I am David’s mother. This is David’s father. We are so glad you invited us in your home. It is such a thrill to be invited by a famous star and what is more - that star is your son’s girlfriend” – She laughed in order to break the tension which appears as a result of the first meeting with someone.
“This is for you Emma. David told us you really liked apple pie so I made one for you. This is a traditional family recipe. I hope I will have the chance to teach you as well!
“It would be a pleasure Mrs. Simmons. My mother also made one so you will have the chance to taste it as well.”
At that moment, Emma’s mother felt relieved because Mrs. Simmons saved the day with her pie.
“No, there is no need, Emma. I would enjoy to have a piece of that traditional apple pie you were talking” – she laughed and continued “I am Emma’s mother. It is a pleasure to have you here Mrs. Simmons. David is like a son to me and my husband. Please, come in, he is waiting for you!
There were they all sitting around the table in the dining room with a cup of coffee and a delicious pie. Both of the families did not feel comfortable to start any topic for conversation and it was a bit odd. So, after a few minutes, Mrs. Watson decided to break the silence.
“We are so glad to have you here and to finally meet you, although, I am a bit curious. Is there any other reason for your visit, Mrs. and Mr. Simmons?”
At that particular moment Mrs. Rush felt like she was not prepared for the answer so in order to provide herself with some more time she took a sip from the coffee that was pretty hot that she could feel her tongue burning. Her husband, Mr. James looked really indifferent like he was forced to come here and look for some answers that obviously were too unpleasant for him. He also sensed that this situation will be both awkward and tense, so he decided to have a slice of the pie brought by his wife.
While Rush was taking the sip of coffee and her husband was eating the slice of pie, Emma’s parents Andrew and Cindy were staring at them and expecting some answer to Cindy’s question. On the other hand, David and Emma were feeling really uncomfortable. Emma gave David “that look” that something bad was about to happen. David realized that it was time to say something so that this whole situation would be at least not that awkward.
“No, there is no need to be so curious Mrs. Watson. This is just a simple visit so that the two families can meet and spend some lovely time. Since me and Emma are so in love, we thought that it would be a nice idea for our parents to meet and enjoy some time together and even more become really close friends…” – David was talking really fast that everyone in the room felt that someone needed break the ice and explain why David’s parents were there.
“Son, do not worry! We are all reasonable ad well behaved people. I am sure that Emma’s parents will understand our urge to come here and learn more about her role in the Harry Potter movies as a witch. In fact, I understand that as a mother Mrs. Watson will also understand my concerns …” Mrs. Simmons took the coffee from the table and had another sip. It seemed that she used the coffee in order to handle this situation.
On the other side of the table Emma did the same thing with the coffee, hoping that she would be as calm as Rush. Emma though about her dream from the previous night and all of his was like a ‘dĂ©jĂ vu’ for her. When she thought of the end of her dream she became really anxious and deep in her heart she prayed for a better outcome this time.
“Well, Mrs. Simmons, or may I call you just Rush as we already see David as our son and we do not have any prejudices or judgements for the person that our daughter choose.” – Mrs. Watson also took a sip of her coffee too. Somehow it became a habit for all the people in the room.
“I am sure that my wife would react the same way as you Mrs. Simmons. It is a natural instinct when it comes to our children. But, that is just a role, it is not who Emma really is. That is something she does when she is an actress, that is not who she is in her personal life. I think this is a reasonable explanation and a clear one” – Emma’s father, Andrew showed more courtesy towards the guests.
“I am not so sure... I guess we will need some more time to figure this out as we only want the best for David.
On the other side of the table, Emma was quite. She was feeling like this was an examination that should determine her destiny. She also felt betrayed as David did not let her know out the real reason hiding behind this visit. If only he was honest…
David noticed the worried look of Emma in her eyes and at that moment he could understand what was going through her mind.
“She might feel disappointed, or maybe guilty or betrayed or maybe just shocked.” – David kept wondering how Emma felt and how he can save her from this misery. He loved her more than anything, so that is why he decided to keep this “little talk” as a secret in order not to make her even more anxious than she is now. But, he was probably wrong.
Right next to David were his parents Rush and James. James was a quiet man who seemed like he did not care about Emma being a witch in a movie. It also seemed that if Emma was a witch in her real life, he would not even care. He was always on David’s side and if David thinks she is the one there is nothing left for James but to agree with him. He was eating the third piece of apple pie and was about to finish his coffee.
Right next to him was his wife Rush. She was a really protective mother and was really upset about the “witch situation”. She considered Emma as a woman who wants to seduce David and take advantage of him. She was almost convinced that Emma agreed on this role in the movie because she was really into those magic and witchcraft things, so that makes her the perfect actress for the role. From her facial expression, it could be noticed that she is a bit annoyed that she does not receive the support from her husband but she decides to try to hide it.
On the other side of the table were Mrs. and Mr. Watson. Cindy was frustrated by the fact that this woman had the courage to come to their house and sort of insult her daughter. She was also protective and she did not even think about agreeing or at least compromise with this lady. On the other hand, Andrew was calmer or at least he looked like he was. He tried to use his faked calmed look in order to convince Rush that she was wrong and that her thoughts are not true. He could somehow understand his irrational worries. However, Emma was his daughter and there was no way for Andrew to accept some of Rush’s irrational fears.
At the end of the table, there was the mega star – Emma. In his case, he was not nothing like a mega star. She seemed like a little scared child who was waiting for her mother to decide what type of punishment she deserves. She did not say anything. She was just about to burst out of tears. She was feeling betrayed and disappointed. This was just like a trial for her for a crime she did not commit, but the conviction was about to be said.
“I will say that I understand you Mrs. Simmons because it is expected of me to say it, but I don’t. However, I must say that I am stunned by your bravery and lack of courtesy. You came into my house to judge my daughter in front of me and my husband. I mean this is unbelievable! Anyway, at least David could mention something to us before your arrival. We considered him as part of the family…”
“Are you trying to say something to me Mrs. Watson? If there is something you would -like to tell me, please say it directly!”
“There is no need for me to say anything! I think you all received the message!” – The ironic voice of Mr. Watson.
“David, James, I think we should leave! “ – The Simmons family left.
Emma thought that the burned apple pie will be the only disaster, but it seemed like there was something more spectacular for that day and that was the judgement from Rush and David hiding things again from her.
As soon as the Simmons family left, Emma burst out in tears. She felt hopeless and she did not even have strengths to continue fighting for her relationship and explaining to everyone who she really was.
“Honey, if this is some comfort, she does not deserve your respect and courtesy” – Cindy tried to comfort Emma but Emma was not really into Rush, she was heartbroken because of David. He should have told her why they decided to visit and she was really looking forward to this meeting with his parents. If she had known their intention, she would have been better prepared for the ‘trial’. Emma did not say a word. She just went upstairs and refused to talk to anyone.
“Are you asleep? Need to talk to you ASAP” – That was the message on her phone from David. She really had no intention to go through this over again. Instead, she turned off the phone, took a pill and went to bed in order to get a good night's sleep and pretend that nothing bad happened today.
On the other side of the town, David was all alone with his mobile phone in his hands waiting for Emma to reply. He was just looking at the time. It was getting late and there was still no reply from Emma.
After a few hours waiting by the phone he felt asleep. At that moment, the phone rang. He woke up immediately hoping it was Emma, but it was his mother.
“Hi, mom”
“Son, I am sorry. We did not have a chance to talk. Your father and I were in a huge fight and now he fell asleep. I am worried about you. I do not want this to mess the relation between us. I understand Emma’s parents’ reaction. I might have done the same if I was in that situation. I maybe have crossed the line, but you know me, I am so against the magic and paranormal things. That is against my belief and my religion. I mean I have the right to ask at least.” – Rush realized she was talking too long and that David might not listen to her.
“Sorry honey, are you still there?”
“Yes, mom! And here is how we are going to solve this! I am going to prove you are wrong and you are going to apologize to Emma and to her family and bake one more apple pie as a sign of conciliation. Ok?” – It seemed like David had a plan.
“But how is that possible honey?” – Rush asked.
“It is very simple. I will be there tomorrow at 10. See you tomorrow” – David hung up.
He went downstairs to look for the magazines of interviews with Emma and the whole Harry Potter experience. He had read all of them and he remembered that there was one where she clearly explains that it is just a role in a movie and that there are no similar events in her life like the ones in the films. After hours and hours of looking, he finally managed to find it.
The next morning, he went to her mother’s home.
“Hi, David! Welcome! – She was surprised that David came so early.
“Mom, start baking an apple pie because Emma is nothing like you think and here is the proof. “- He threw the magazine on the table.
Rush and James immediately took the magazine and started reading it. Rush read it over and over again and she was blushing because she realized she was wrong.
“I am going to start to bake the pie. David, please call Emma and ask if we are welcomed to come one more time”
“Hello, honey! Are you home? I need to talk to your parents” – David sounded really excited on the phone.
“I am still in bed David I do not know where they are.”
“Can you check it up please?” – David insisted on Emma finding her parents.
“I don’t know where they are I really do not hear any noises from the other rooms. Anyway, I do not think this is a good idea after the previous time.” – Emma sounded really disappointed on the phone.
“Honey, listen, my mother wants to apologize to you, to all of you including your parents. Can we please come?” – David was afraid that Emma will refuse this offer.
“David, please, there is no need to do this just for me. It is okay, I understand her and it is okay. Not everyone needs to agree or to understand the beliefs of the others. I just really wanted your parents to like me. But, it is just fine to leave things like they are now.”
“My mother is baking a pie right now. Do you know what does that mean?”
Emma was a bit confused. “What are you saying David?”
“My mother only bakes an apple pie when there is a special occasion in the family, for a holiday or for people who she wants to like her. Do you understand it now?”
“You mean, you are really coming her with your family for the second time in order to receive a new start?” – Emma was finally excited and she managed to understand what David was really trying to tell her.
“Yes, we are coming in half an hour.” – David hung up and went straight to tell her mother that they are welcomed again for the second time.
Emma called her mother and informed her about the visit. Her mother was not really excited because of the visit because she was afraid that there would be no progress in understanding each other’s beliefs and thoughts. On the other side, Emma’s father was relieved because he was hoping that this situation will at least make Emma happier and solve the problem between her and David. He was assured that David was the one for her and that she is in love with him because she has never introduced a man to him and his wife before as her boyfriend. He was glad that there was a way that can function so that they can be back together.
While Emma was on the phone with her mother talking for the upcoming event, Andrew just took the mobile out of her hand and just said “It is okay honey, there is no need for a debate – yes they can come and they are always welcomed in our house. How great a man is can be noticed by his ability to forgive a person and forget.
After a few hours, the Simmons family was in front of the door. Emma opened it and pretended like nothing has happened. There were also her mother and her father. They introduced themselves like it was their first time. After a while, they had a pleasant conversation with a cup of coffee and a piece of a delicious pie. Rush and James apologized once again and Cindy and Andrew accepted their apologies.
During their conversation, Emma’s phone rang. It was a friend of her who worked for a very famous local newspaper. She called Emma to ask her if she wanted to hang out. Emma went to the other room because it was quite noisy in the living room.
“Hey, Emily! What’s up?”
“Hey, Emma! I just wanted to ask you if you want to come over for a chat and a drink.”
“Sorry, Emily, David’s parents are here. Maybe next time” – Emma did not want to let Emily know about the misunderstanding between the families.
Meanwhile, David entered the room. He thought that Emma was on the phone with her manager. He did not like Emma’s manager so he immediately said “Oh, here is the mister, wanting to know about the ‘family mess’ – really clingy.”
Emma tried to cover the phone so that Emily could not hear the latest gossip in order not to write an article about it. “Okay, Emily, see you soon, bye”!
Emma hung up the phone. “Daviddd! I just hope that this will not come up in the newspaper tomorrow or you are a dead man”.
The next morning Emma woke up finally next to David. It was a promising morning that the day will be better and relaxed compared to the previous ones. David was still sleeping so Emma had finally the chance to look at his eyes and his face without fear and doubts. On his face, she could see the calmness that he was feeling after the ‘family mess’ was solved. He was breathing peacefully in a calm rhythm until Emma mildly touched his face without an intention to wake him, but, obviously, David was not used to this, so he woke up.
“What is wrong? Are you okay?” – He was rubbing his eyes, trying to figure out if something was happening.
“Good morning, honey! Relax; this is one of those perfect mornings we both dreamt about since all of this drama began. I love the calmness we both feel now and I really want to be with just you and no one else. I just really need some cuddle with you in order to reconnect with you. I guess this would be something we both are not used to” – She giggled.
“Well, if we could survive the media, the parents, the judgements, the stereotypes, blah, blah, I guess we could get used to some peace and quiet. It will not be that hard, I suppose” – with a smile on his face he kissed Emma and they stayed in bed for some time. This peacefully morning was just like a reward for them for everything they have been through.
Emma went downstairs and prepared a delicious breakfast which included pancakes with strawberry jam and two cups of coffee, sugar –free. After the shower, David also joined her and they sat quietly in the dining area.
While they were having breakfast, someone knocked on the door. Emma had a feeling that it would be some bad news that will ruin her perfect morning.
“David, do not open it! I do not expect anyone, so there is no need to pay attention to something that will disturb us. I should buy a sign that says “DO NOT DISTURB” when for days like these.”
“But, aren’t you curious? I will open it and I will not tell you who it was, don’t worry! – David tried to sound funny, but it was not funny for Emma at all because she still had that sense that something will be terribly wrong if he opens the door.
Despite Emma’s words, David decided to open the door. She heard some voices, but she refused to think that it was some bad news. After a minute David was back. She was looking straight at his eyes, expecting him to say something. But instead saying something he just kissed her on her forehead.
“Don’t worry! It was the boy that delivers newspapers. I don’t have the wallet with me; do you have some money somewhere here?”
Emma took some banknotes from her pocket and gave it to David.
“I will be right back” – David went to give some money to the boy. When he was closing the door he heard Emma screaming room he other room.
“DAVIDDDDD, IT’S OVER!
He went back all panicked.
“What is wrong?” – David stuttered, trying to pull the words out because he was not ready for a new drama, especially after realizing how wonderful the peaceful mornings are.
“WE ARE ON THE COVER!” – Emma was still yelling.
David hands were shaking, but he took the newspapers and read the headline.
“Emma’s trouble with her future in – laws” and there was a photo of all of them sitting in the living room with angry faces and Emma wiping off her tears with her hands.
While both of them were sitting in the dining room, Emma’s manager was calling, but she decided to decline the call and thy both were sitting in silence for some time.
This silence lasted for so long that it actually became uncomfortable because both of them were sitting still there. Emma was crying and David did not know how to console her because he had no idea how this can be solved. He had never been involved in a situation like this before with media, press and so on. On the other hand, Emma was having a really hard time and he did not know how to help her. This is not the first time for her to be gossiped or to be on a cover on some magazine, so called “the yellow press”. In fact, sometimes all of these gossips have helped her to become more popular in some situations, but I was nothing like this. She really hated when her family was involved in the media. Now it was even worse because she barely managed to solve the problem with David’s parents and now the whole drama is on a cover page of a magazine. She was even worried how they are going to react this time.
David decided to break the silence. “I am so sorry. You know me, I always do something without thinking of the consequences” David was struggling to find the right words, but somehow he did not know what to say in order to make things better. In fact, with every word he only made it worse.
“Enough, David! When you are dating a celebrity you must be aware of the consequences. That is the number one rule in the world of the show business. It is okay when they write about something else, but not about my family”. Emma took her phone and dialed the number of her manager. While speaking with him she went to the kitchen to make a cup of coffee for her. David felt like a total idiot because with this act Emma wanted to show him that there is someone else who can solve this and that David could do nothing about it. David understood what Emma wanted to tell him without even using words and he was feeling like an idiot.
After Emma finished her conversation with her manager Mike she returned to the dining room. “He says I must not say anything now to the media. It would be better if I go for a coffee or to the mall with your mother and my mother. The paparazzi will take photos of us so it would seem like it is just a lie about the family mess.”
“I am not sure if my mother will agree. She is not that type of going in cafes or shopping in the mall.” David was rumbling because he did not know how this will turn out at the end.
Emma was a bit arrogant now. “I think that is something at least she can do for me after the whole drama. In fact, everything happened because of you and her idea about the witchcraft. Mike will be here in an hour. I will work with him on my reputation and about the premiere of the film this month. I think I have had enough family drama. I will call you later.”
Emma went upstairs and David was still sitting in the dining room feeling like an idiot. After 15 minutes, he realized that Emma was not going to come downstairs, so he left home. He called his mother to let her know about the media issue and the solution to it. She was not really thrilled about it, but David convinced her somehow.
Meanwhile, Emma was with her manager Mike in her house. After analyzing the idea of Emma going out with the two mothers, after talking about the premiere of the movie and about her reputation in Hollywood, it was time for a glass of wine.
“I hate to be the one that gives you some advice about your love life, but this David has caused you a lot of troubles. In fact, when it comes to the media, you have become more popular and present in the media, then before – which is a thing” – they both laughed and Mike continued, “but I am not sure if you are happy with him.” – A few glasses of wine have loosened his tongue.
“Don’t worry, I am happy with him it is just complicated. There are some circumstances that cannot be omitted or avoided. These troubles are beyond our control. When it comes only to David, I must say that he is different than the other men I have dated. He just” Emma made a pause, “just do not know how to handle some situations and sometimes he is afraid when he feels there is no way you know…” Emma took another sip of her wine.
“That is what I am saying” – Mike’s voice was with a lower pitch this time and his words sounded a bit seductive.
“What do you mean? Emma was confused because Mike was touching her hair now and he was closer to her face.
“You need someone who can deal with the media, with your popularity and stuff like that, not someone who cannot convince his mother that you are not a witch” Mike was even closer right now just a few inches of Emma’ lips and in that moment Emma’s phone rang. It was David.
Emma was confused because she did not know how to react. Mike has been her manager since the beginning of her career and he had never shown her that he was seeing her as a woman, but only as a business. On the other hand, she admitted to herself that this act of Mike’s felt good to her because it was really nice and pleasant to know that another man was attracted to you. Emma has had millions of fans and she was aware that they have been attracted to her, especially the male population. Anyway, this time was different because her audience is mostly attracted by Emma – the actress, not by Emma – a simple woman just like any other out there.
She refused to be overwhelmed by Mike’s behavior and decided to avoid him, so she answered the phone. It felt like the right thing to do at that moment.
“Hey, honey, what’s up?” – Even though David and she had a huge fight she decided to act like everything was okay between them so that she does not give hope to Mike that there could be something between them. Anyways, he is her manager so it is not a good idea to mix love and work.
David sounded surprised on the phone because he did not expect such cheer in Emma’s voice. Anyway, he decided to follow her and also pretend like nothing happened.
“Hey, honey! I was wondering if you could manage to find a solution with your manager. Should I inform my mother about your date?”
“Hmm, well, yes, tomorrow at 10 in the morning. I will also let my mother know. It will be not a big deal, just going in some stores and into a coffee shop. After the paparazzi take so photos she will be free to go. So, it would probably take a few hours, no more than that.”
“Great, baby! I am happy for you! It will be all set, don’t worry!” – David tried to sound optimistic. - “I love you”
Emma did not know what to say because Mike was still there. “I have to go now. Bye!”
It was uncomfortable in the room after Emma hung up on the phone. Both of them were quiet.
“I guess, I should leave now. The press is calling me non-stop, but I will not answer it. They will receive the answer tomorrow from the photos, I suppose.” – Mike was putting his jacket on.
“Yes, I hope so.”- Emma replied.
“Please report how it went, okay?”
“Yes, I will. Take care!” – Emma closed the door.
The next morning Rush was looking pretty amazing. She was excited because she knew he would be in the magazine, although he did not want to show it off in front of Emma and Cindy. They were waiting for her in their car near the mall. After 10 past 10 Rush were there. She got in Emma’s car and they agreed how they are going to behave in the mall. Smiles, hugs and conversation between the three women were part of the agreement.
In the next 2 hours, the three of them were trying me outfits, smiling and talking to each other with a smile on their faces. After that, they went into a coffee shop and had a coffee and a piece of cake. The paparazzi were there all the time, but they pretended like there was no one around them.
While they were having coffee, they tried to discuss about the media and about what will be there in the magazines tomorrow. When the paparazzi left, they felt relieved.
“I don’t know why all of this was necessary? They should not do that. They interrupt your privacy all the time! It is like hell!” – Rush started complaining even though she was flattered by the attention of the paparazzi.
“It is part of my job.” – Emma tried to sound as she was not irritated by this comment. It was Rush’s fault anyway. Well, and David’s too!
“I understand the witchcraft problem, but this is more than that. I don’t know how David would deal with all of this. I am exhausted; I can only imagine how he must have been feeling all this time.” –Rush was only putting more oil to the fire.
Cindy was trying to stay calm because she did not want to cause one more media mess to Emma even though she was furious on the inside.
Emma just wanted to escape so she texted Mike “I am at the mall. Pick me up! This is hell!
Rush continued with her monologue about Emma and her career and the pressure of the media. Mike arrived in 20 minutes, so Emma paid the bill and said to them that she is meeting a friend in order to avoid Rush’s comments. She was hurrying towards the back exit of the mall so that she can leave without attracting any attention of her fans and the paparazzi. Unfortunately for her, Rush went to the bathroom and after that went out on the terrace to have a cigarette. Then, she noticed Emma entering the black car and also saw the man.
“This is terrible. I will call David right now!” – Rush started dialing David’s number.
Rush took her phone and dialed David’s number. She was feeling confused because she had never seen this man before and he is not definitely a friend of David. At that very moment she regretted calling David because she did not know what to tell him exactly. She saw Emma entering the car of another man when previously she had said that she is visiting a friend. On the one hand, maybe the unknown man is the friend that she wanted to visit. In that case, Emma did not lie to them. Or maybe, he was just giving her a lift to the friend’s house. The worse variant will be that that man is having an affair with her so she lied to them and left with that man. These scenarios were running through her head and she was convincing herself that the last scenario is not the real one. She was getting anxious, so she had another cigarette. David did not answer the phone, so Rush had a little more time to think how she is going to explain this situation to David. Rush got back and she and Cindy left the mall and went home.
Rush decided not to tell anything to Cindy because she was Emma’s mother and she would defend her no matter what Rush saw. She may call her daughter and let her know that Rush was aware that Emma may be hiding something from David, so the situation will become more complicated. She wanted only the best for her son, so decided to call him.
“Hey mom, what’s up? How was the date with Emma and her mother”? – David was thrilled and hoping that everything went well.
“Everything was good, don’t worry. I wanted to call you earlier, but I assumed that Emma have already told you how the date went.” – Rush wanted to see if Emma had at least called David.
“No, her phone is turned off. She must have run out of battery.” – At that moment, Rush decided that there was no other way than to tell David what happened.
“She said that she was going to meet a friend, but I am no sure which one because I saw her leaving with a man in his car.” – Rush tried to sound calm as everything was okay in order to see how David was going to react.
“Are you sure mom? She did not tell me anything about going somewhere after the mall?” – David sounded worried.
“Yes, I am. I saw them”- Rush was decisive.
“I’ll call you back mom.” – David hung up. Someone was at the door. It was Emma, but David was not really happy to see her.
“Come on in” – he did not even hug her.
“Is there a problem? I have never seen you like this before.” – Emma took off her coat and sat on the sofa trying to find a comfortable position.
“No, everything’s cool” – David replied ironically.
“Are we going to talk? What’s the matter?”- Emma sounded a bit worried.
“I think you should talk. Who was the man you left with earlier today? Was he your “friend”? – David tried to imitate quotation marks in order to show her that he doesn’t believe her.
“Oh, God! Who told you this?” – Emma seemed surprised.
“Don’t reply with a question! I need answers!” David was angry.
“Okay, that was my manager. I needed to leave the mall. It was so boring! Your mother was constantly complaining about the paparazzi and the media and worrying about you. It was very stressful, so I called Mike to help me. And yes, I lied to them because your mother would make a big deal of it.” – Emma tried to explain.
“And why did not you call me? Or at least to let me know that you are somewhere with him?” – David was getting furious. “Instead, I got the voice mail when I called you!”
“David, calm down! Nothing happened! Don’t be so jealous!”
“I think you should leave immediately! – David was yelling now, so Emma had no other choice. She took her coat and immediately left the house.
Emma was shocked because of David’s behavior. She did not expect him to react like this, especially when nothing happened between her and Mike. She was wiping her tears but they kept falling down. She was disappointed, but this time it was because of her not because of David. David also made some huge mistakes in the past. However, he has improved since then a lot. It was expected from Emma to return to his improvement in the same way as he managed to convince her that everything was changing and that he was ready to embrace her with all of her mistakes, flaws, the media pressure and much more.
She left with Mike because he is the manager so she would avoid arguing again with Rush and she would avoid another scene with the media. She discussed with Mike about that event in the mall earlier and he told her that the paparazzi took many photos of them together and that tomorrow morning there will be articles in every magazine about the so called “family reunion”. The bad thing was that David thinks that Mike has a crush on Emma and Emma was aware of that. There is nothing she can do because Mike has shown her that he really has some feelings towards her.
With all of these thoughts in her head, Emma was wandering the streets. She decided to have a stroll and clear up her mind a bit. She was wearing a hat, jacket, and a scarf in order to avoid being recognized by someone. She was walking or half hour when there was a car behind her driving really slowly. She did not pay attention to it at first, but then she was paranoid that maybe someone is following her or maybe some reporter from the media realized about the argument between her and David and now seeks for more details. Initially, she thought of running and going back to David’s house. This was just the initial idea, but she decided to face the man that is in the car so she stopped walking and turned back. She felt a bit annoyed, but relieved at the same time. It was Mike! He was following her all the time. She entered the car.
“You are such a freak! You scared the shit out of me!”
“It’s me! Don’t worry! I was following you because you seemed a bit pissed off when you went to David’s home and it seems like you were pissed off also when you left. So, don’t be angry it is a good idea that I was following you! I was just worried.” – Mike tried to explain.
“It’s okay, Mike. I had an exhausting day. Would you like to take me home?”
“Yes, sure. Only one condition – I want you to tell me what happened with David this time. I am also your friend now.”
“Ahh! The usual stuff. He does not believe me, he is jealous, he thinks I don’t care about him enough and of course here is Mrs. Simmons who makes the situation even more difficult! Can we please go home now?
“Come on, relax, you do not deserve all of this! You are a very good girl Emma.” – Mike started caressing her hands and then his cheeks and he was getting closer to her almost 2 inches from her mouth.
“You deserve better Emma, I’ve told you before” – Mike kissed Emma and it was a very long ad soft kiss and Emma did not deny it.
Even though she enjoyed the kiss, the feeling of guilt was enormous compared to the few seconds of enjoyment. The truth is that the last few weeks with David were not really good. However, David did not deserve this because deep down in her heart she knew that he was trying his best to make this work. On the other hand, Mike was offering her the piece of the jigsaw that was missing – the understanding that she was desperately seeking for. He was there when she needed him and he managed to rescue her from the troubles that have been following her lately. Anyway, this was a small moment of weakness and Mike took advantage of it.
“Are you okay?” – Mike asked her with a very sensitive voice.
“I don’t know...” – He could understand from her voice that she was overwhelmed.
“Do you want to talk about what has just happened? I just want to let you know that…” – Mike was interrupted.
“I don’t want to talk about it! I don’t even know what to think…please take me home.”- Emma was feeling miserable.
“I just want to let you know that I have no regrets. If I had the chance I would do this again. I mean this. I know that it must be very confusing for you, but I am patient.”
Emma did not reply. She was just looking outside the window. While they were travelling back home, it was quiet in the car. Emma did not say anything, and Mike was scared that he would make her mad if he says something. After a half hour they were in front of Emma’s house.
“Emma, I know that this is not easy for you. I will give you some time to think. Please call me tomorrow. I am worried about you.”
“I will.”
As soon as she walked in home she realized that her heart and her mind would not agree on the previous situation. Her mind was too tired and her heart as well. She did not want to think at all. Instead of staring at the ceiling or looking out of the window and analyzing every thought and every word she said previously, she took a pill and went straight to bed. After a minute she drifted off.
The next morning she was feeling a bit dizzy. She was not sure if that was a side effect of the pill or it was because of the thing that happened yesterday with David and also the other one with Mike. She did not want to talk to anybody. She went downstairs to pour a cup of coffee and went back to her room. There were 29 missed calls. Some were from David and some from Mike. She was not ready to deal with neither of them so she ignored the phone. She enjoyed her coffee avoiding her thoughts of infidelity and humiliation. On the other hand, David did not want even to hear her explanation. The doorbell interrupted coffee, but she decided to ignore it. Someone persistently was ringing so she decided to open the door. To her surprise, it was David.
“Hey”-
“I was so worried that you did not return to my calls, so I am here I want to talk with you.” – David was a bit nervous.
“Sorry, I did not hear the phone. I was sleeping.” – Emma poured one more cup of coffee and handed it to David. He was sitting on the sofa.
“About last night….” Those were the words Emma was hoping not to hear because she was afraid that David might have found out about Mike.
At that moment, someone else rang the doorbell. For Emma it was a relief because she wanted to avoid the conversation about last night.
“Hey”
“Oh my God! I did not expect you now!” – Emma was stunned because in front of her was Mike… and David was in the room.
“Who is it?” David asked.
“The paper boy! I will be right back!” Emma tried to hide how shocked she was because of the Mike’s visit. This was not a good time for both of them to be in the same room with Emma. Perhaps, Emma was paranoid. David might not figure out that there was something between Emma and Mike. However, she was afraid that her facial expressions or her gestures will betray her. Just like she did with David.
Emma closed the door and she was on the outside with Mike. They were whispering.
“What are you doing here? You can’t be here, right now. David’s here! Oh my God this is so stressful! I just really can’t take it anymore!” Emma was breathing very hard. She was having a panic attack.
“I did not mean to cause all of this drama. I thought you were alone. In fact, I was worried about you. You have not returned any of my calls.” – Mike was also confused. “I do not know to react to all of this… I mean we can’t pretend that nothing happened. There was something between us and you know it… You can’t deny it as much as you wish you could. Even though I know it won’t be easy, I can deny all of this. I mean I have a responsibility towards you. You mean to me, you know it right?”
“Oh, Mike, come on! This is not the time! I mean, David is in here you are out here, this is too much. I can handle it. I would invite you in but he is in there and I am afraid that he would realize that there was something between us if he sees us together. Please, go!”
“I will, but only if you promise to call me me back and meet me tonight” –Mike was determined to see her again by tonight.
“I will, now, please go!
Emma entered her house and was closing the door when she saw that David was right there next to the door but from the inside. She was afraid that he might have been there all the time and have overheard their conversation.
“Oh, David you scared me! Why are you standing here?”
“Well, you were out for so long and I wanted to see what was going on?”
“Oh, nothing, just a little chat with the paper boy. You know, I am a big star so he wanted to take a photo and also an autograph from me. You know the usual fan meeting.” – Emma tried to look relaxed.
“Really? Then where is the newspaper?” – David was looking at Emma because she looked so suspicious.
Emma reacted quickly. “Well, I forgot to take it, you know with all the photographing and that stuff. In fact, I felt sorry for the boy that I only gave him the money and did not take the newspaper. He might give it to someone else and get more money.” – She was even stuttering a bit because she was nervous, so she changed the topic.
“Come on here, the coffee will get cold. We have a lot of things talk about I guess.”
Emma was feeling relieved because somehow she managed to handle the situation. She was really tense, so she was pretending that she was busy with something in the kitchen, so that David will not notice that something was wrong. She was aware that David knows who she really is and how she reacts in certain situations. They have been together for some time now, so she was afraid that he will realize the truth only by looking her at her eyes.
David sat on the chair in order to drink his coffee and to talk to Emma, but Emma went to the kitchen with the excuse that she needed to load the dishwasher and that she will be right back. While standing in the kitchen, she had a few seconds to pull herself together and to make that guilty look vanish off her face.
“I’m finally here! – Emma sat next to David. “So, what were you saying?”
“Well, nothing. I just came to apologize. I feel terrible about this situation. You are right. I might have overreacted a bit, but that is only because of you! I love you! I think I had enough drama in this life. I want us to work. I mean, after everything we have been through, I can’t let you go. If you still believe in me and in us, in our future, I want to give this relationship another try.” – It sounded as David was really sincere and prepared to take this relationship to the next level.
Emma was happy to hear all of this. She felt a sense of security and warmth in her heart. She was aware that David was honest with her and that is exactly want she wanted to hear. However, she also wanted to meet with Mike. That was dangerous for everybody, for her career, for David and for the media and her reputation. Anyway, she wanted to just go and listen to what he has to say.
“I know, I am also tired of all of this. I mean, my life is already stressful enough with so much pressure.” –In fact, the only sweet stress was Mike.
“I also want to be with you, but this time I want you to believe in me and no one else. I hate when someone else is involved this or that way.” –
The words were just popping out of her mouth. She could not stop herself from speaking. None of this was really true. She was aware that these are the words that David wanted to listen. In fact, these were words that she was supposed to say to him now that he told her that he loved her and that he would do anything for her. She knew that she was a hypocrite, but somehow she could not make the heart believe what the mind wanted to. She was not in love with Mike and she still had feelings for David. Somehow, there was something that was dragging her towards Mike. Maybe it was just a curiosity, or maybe Mike was just a challenge for her. She could not define it, but it was there.
“Okay, so what are you up to? Do you want to go somewhere or to do something together?” – The thrill in David voice could be felt and Emma was feeling guilty because of all of this but she decided to go with the flow.
“Well, I don’t know. I don’t have any plans.”
“Well, what do you say about a picnic in the park? It is sunny outside.”
“Okay, but I need to be home by 6.”
“Really? You said you did not have any plans for today?”
Emma realized that she would have been caught.
“Oh, it’s nothing serious! I will tell you on our way” – She wanted to buy herself some time in order to think of a lie. It must be a persuasive lie so that David will not suspect that she is meeting Mike tonight again.
Emma put her jacket on and they were ready for a stroll in the park. David was waiting for her in the hall. While Emma was looking for some sneakers to wear her phone was ringing. It was Mike. She could not answer now because David could come in and overhear her conversation. She really needed to be more careful. She cancelled the call, but Mike was persistent. Emma quickly thought of an excuse.
She opened the door. David was there waiting for her.
“Could you wait a few seconds? I will just put some make up on and I will be ready. You know, there might be someone taking photos again.”
“Yes, sure! But, please, hurry up. You are always beautiful, remember that.” – Emma was feeling guilty because of the sweet, innocent face of David. Anyway, the fire inside her was burning and she really wanted to give a chance to this so that she could see here it will go. David was sweet and kind, but Mike was adventurous and filled her body with adrenaline. She went upstairs and called Mike.
“Please, don’t call me now! I told you David was here. This whole situation makes me so anxious.” – Emma was freaked out.
“I know. I just wanted to hear your voice and to confirm our date tonight. Please make some excuse so that we could meet tonight.”
“Okay, 6 my house?”
“Sure, can’t wait!”
Emma hung up and she could feel the excitement about the upcoming date and the butterflies that appeared in her stomach. This feeling was greater compared to the guilt.
She went immediately downstairs. David was still in the yard waiting for her. She quickly put some make up on and went out.
“I am ready! Let’s enjoy the day. I need to be home by 6. I had to think of an idea about the next promotion of the film” – She tried to sound convincingly.
“Why you? Aren’t there other people who are supposed to do this for you?”
“Well…” – She got confused. “We are a team so I also want to make a contribution. That’s the way we work.”
“Oh, okay, sure.”
It seemed that David believed her.
The day was wonderful. They were walking around the lake in the park and had a coffee in the café in the woods. There were a lot of people wanting to take a photo with Emma and a few flashlights from the paparazzi camera, but everything went great, except for one thing. David noticed that Emma was watching constantly at her watch and that activity put a bit of doubt in his heart, but he did not mention anything.
“It was a wonderful day. This idea of yours was excellent I really had so much fun!”
“I also enjoyed this day very much” – His kissed her on his forehead and he could feel that she was distracted.
“Did I do something wrong? You seem a bit distracted.”
“No, nothing. I am just a bit tired. Shall we go home?” – It was obvious that Emma was trying to hide something.
“Yes, sure.”
David dropped off Emma in front of her house. She just kissed David with a cold hug and immediately left. It was 10 minutes to 6.
“I have to go. I will call you as soon as we finish the meeting.” – She immediately left.
Mike was waiting for her outside the door. He was eagerly waiting for Emma to arrive. When she approached, his eyes were shining. A sparkle appeared in his eyes.
“I could not wait anymore to see you.” – He grabbed her around her waist and pulled her towards him.
“I need you!” – He kissed her and she did not refuse his kiss. It seemed that she enjoyed it so much.
Meanwhile, David was driving for a few miles when he realized that he forgot his keys earlier today in Emma’s house. He returned and drove towards her house. There was an unpleasant surprise waiting for him there. When he walked into her yard, he saw them kissing passionately. He was broken.
The more passionate the kisses were the more broken he was feeling. The tears in his eyes could not be kept because the sorrow was so big. The pain in his heart was enormous and the tears on his cheeks were warm just like the fire that was burning in his heart. There was a mixture of feelings and his heart and his brain could not decide which feeling was greater. The brain was more focused on the betrayal and the heart was insisting that their love was true and that this is only a phase in their relationship. He was struggling inside but his face did not show anything. He did not want to make a sound or anything else because he did not want Emma to know that she was caught.
He needed some time to think so he left. He was in shock, so he was sitting in his car for a while. He could not believe what he saw there. It seemed to him that his eyes had betrayed him. But, unfortunately, they are always right, even though he could not believe them. He refused to believe the truth because it was too painful. The tears started falling again on his cheeks and he did not even want to stop them. It might hurt less if he just let them go. This time he was crying loudly in his car.
Somehow, after some time, he managed to come to his senses and started driving home. This was a very tiring day and very stressful. He was checking his phone constantly but there was no call or message from Emma. That was irritating him because he was aware why she was not calling or texting. He arrived home. It was dark and cold. Maybe it seemed that it was like that because of his feelings. He went straight to the kitchen. He poured a glass of whiskey and drunk it immediately. However, it was burning his stomach, not his heart. He poured another glass and drunk it the same way. There was no call from Emma and that irritated him so he threw his phone away and went straight to bed. This was too much for him on to happen in one day.
Anyway, he could not fall asleep. He was going through the situation over and over again and he could not realize why Emma did this to him when he was in love with her. The most painful part was that he thought that she was in love with him too, especially after everything they have been through. He was thinking for hours but he could not find the right answer. Somehow, he fell asleep.
It was a short nap but anyway, it was interrupted by a constant knocking on the door. He could not see what time it was because his phone was not there. He managed somehow to open the door. There was Emma standing in front of him. This time, she was the last person he wanted to see. He tried to stay calm and not to say anything immediately.
“What are you doing here?”
Emma was surprised from his behavior but she did not say anything about it.
“Well, I was worried about you since you did not return my calls. Are you okay? Your face is red and swollen.”
“Yes, I am. I think you should go now. I am not in the mood to talk right now.”
“Is there something wrong? You seem a bit absent.” – Deep in her heart, she was convinced that David has his doubts about her and Mike.
“That is none of your problem. I’ll call you” – David closed the door.
Emma was very angry this time so she opened it again. Luckily, David was still behind the door.
“You will tell me right now what is going on here.”
“Oh, really ask your manager. I believe your meeting went great and that he has everything under his control.” – David closed the door and Emma was standing on the other side of the door with minions of thoughts on her mind.
This is all my fault” – Emma was feeling guiltier than ever, especially now when she was aware that David saw her with Mike.
She did not know what to do. She has been calling David, but he did not answer even though he knew that she was still in front of his door. This was his way of a punishment for her. He still loves her deep in his heart, but he still needed some time to get over this situation. On the other hand, he was afraid that she might be in love with him anymore and that this is not just a phase.
David was watching Emma through the window while she was still standing in front of the door. It seemed as she was a small puppy in front of the door waiting for its owner to open it and to feed it. His heart was tearing apart. He loved her and this view was in fact killing him even though it did not seem that way to Emma. His phone was ringing, but his mind did not let him answer. He wanted her to learn the lesson. He also wanted to hug her and give her a chance to explain. There was no way out except to give himself some time.
Emma went home. She was afraid that the paparazzi might have followed her. That’s why she was looking for some old photos of her so that he could post them on social media and pretend that she was not in David’s home but somewhere else.
Meanwhile, there was no call from David. She wanted a chance to talk to him. She started imagining that she was talking to her and suddenly her mind blocked. If she talked to him, she would not know what to say to him. Was it an impulsive behavior or maybe was it because she was led by heart? Or maybe, she just wanted to chance something in her life…
These thoughts were so deep and she really needed to sit quietly and deal with her feelings. It was necessary, but it was not a priority now.
There were many private photos of Emma in her phone and her computer. Many of them were not published anywhere, so she decided to post some of them now on social media so that people could think that she was there then and not in David’s house. There were photos of her in a restaurant having some pasta and wine with a smile on her face and perfect makeup and clothes. She was holding the glass of wine in her hand and the phone in the other one. She was smiling and looking at the phone at the same time. This photo seemed like a good one to make a camouflage for the media.
As soon as she clicked ‘post’ in order to upload her photo, her phone rang. She was excited because she thought that David was calling. She was wrong. It was an unknown number and she avoids the numbers she has not memorized in her phone.
With a glass of white wine, she lay down in her bed and decided to turn off her brain for a bit.
On the other side of the town, David was sitting and worrying out Emma. He did not want to talk to her, but he wanted to know what she was doing and how she was. These thoughts were torturing him so he needed to be distracted by something. He took the phone and started scrolling the social media when he saw the photo of Emma in a restaurant. She was looking at her phone and smiling so he thought that she might be chatting with him. He was more worried about the person she was with because someone must have been there to take the photo. I was not a selfie. David was furious because his tactic did not work.
Emma was lying when her phone rang one more time. It was Mike. When she saw her name on the screen, she got excited and some butterflies appeared in her stomach. This feeling made her anxious because she was aware that she was wrong and that it is wrong to be with him. She answered anyway.
“Hello”
The voice on the other side seemed worried “Are you okay, Emma?”
There was a signal that there was someone else calling her on the second line. It was David. It was time for her to choose…
He had seen her here time and time again, it was part of a chain of family restaurants and he couldn’t believe his eyes when he recognized her a few tables over. At first, he thought that it couldn’t possibly be her, it had to be a look alike. He wanted nothing more than to go over and talk to her, but she would probably just brush him off as yet another crazy Harry Potter fan. So he found himself in a familiar routine, getting breakfast here at the same restaurant every morning. He always brought a newspaper along to give himself something to do, a reason to hang around for so long rather than just eat and leave.
He didn’t think it would ever go any further than this, so no one was more surprised than him when she actually came over to his table. He was reading through his newspaper when he heard her voice.
“Excuse me?”
At first, he couldn’t believe his ears, but he looked up and there she was, standing right near his table. At first, he was worried that he had done something wrong, did she think he was stalking her and she was here to tell him off?
“Do you mind if I sit down?” she asked, shyly like she was afraid that he would say no.
“O-of course,” he stammered, and she slid into the chair opposite him.
“Oh thank you so much, can I borrow this?” she pointed to the newspaper.
“Oh, sure,” while it was flattering that she had come over, the thought that she would now leave was a sad one.
But instead, she held up the newspaper like a shield, hiding them both from the rest of the restaurant. It felt beautiful in a way, when he looked at her he could imagine that they were in their own little world.
“Are you okay?” he asked. For a moment he fantasized that she had been trying to work up the courage to talk to him the way he had with her. She ducked closer to him and he found himself staring into her beautiful doe-like eyes.
“There’s a guy over there and I’m pretty sure he’s taking pictures of me,”
“Wow, that’s so creepy,” he tried to squash the part of him that was a bit relieved that she didn’t think he was weird.
“Exactly, I didn’t want to bother you, but I don’t want the paparazzi to realize that I’m here. It’s just…I see you in here every day and I hoped you’d take pity on me,”
“It’s really no trouble at all,” it was all he could say. She smiled at him sweetly and his heart fluttered, he loved the idea of being her knight in shining armor, here to protect her from the creeps of the world. He didn’t want this morning to end and he had an idea as to how he could keep this going.
“Would you like to get out of here?” he asked. “You shouldn’t have to go hungry because of that creep, I know a place down the street,”
“That’s a great idea, I’d love to, how will we get out of here?”
“Yeah, I think they’ll notice if we keep hiding behind this newspaper,”
She laughed, the sound was so pure like a bell and he realized that he was grinning like an idiot.
“What if you wear my hat?” he took off his baseball cap and offered it to her. “It could hide your face,”
She put it on posed for him.
“How does it look?”
“Gorgeous,” the word burst out of him before he could stop it and there was a terrifying moment where he was worried that she would think that he sounded like a dork, but instead she blushed and smiled like she was genuinely flattered.
“I hope this doesn’t sound too weird or anything, but could you put your arm around me?”
They stood up from the table and he put his arm around Emma, making sure to stand between her and the other people in the restaurant. He felt his heart soar and he couldn’t remember the last time he had felt this excited. At first, he assumed that she wanted to pretend they were a couple as a cover to get out of the restaurant, but when they were out the door he felt her snuggle a little closer to him, like she was genuinely happy to be there.
“Hey, I hope this doesn’t sound too forward, but would you like to come back to my place?”
She looked up at him and he quickly reassured her.
“I’ll make you breakfast and we can watch Netflix or something,” it’d be nice to spend some more time with her, and this way they didn’t have to worry about prying eyes.
“I’d like that,” she smiled up at him.
He still had his arm wrapped around Emma when he realised that he should introduce himself.
“Oh, sorry, I’m David Simmons,” he stuck out the hand that wasn’t wrapped around her shoulders. Part of him wanted to go on and on and on about how he probably knew all about her and she didn’t know the slightest thing about him, but before he said it he realised how creepy it sounded. It would be better to introduce himself like he was meeting anyone else for the first time. After all, deep down he wanted to get to know Emma as a person, not just a celebrity.
“Emma,” she shook it as she looked up at him, smiling. It felt so strange to be shaking her hand like she was a stranger, while his other arm was wrapped around her like she was his girlfriend.
Yeah, I wish, he didn’t want to give him hopes, how could Emma Watson of all people possibly consider actually dating him? But maybe that’s what she wanted, someone to treat her as plain old Emma rather than a celebrity actress and he decided that he would like this from now on like she was a pretty girl he wanted to get to know rather than a famous celebrity that he had a major crush on.
“Are you serious about coming back to my place?” he asked.
“As long as you don’t alert the media,” she tried to say it in a joking tone, but he could see in her eyes that she knew that she should be worried, he was a complete stranger after all…
“What would be the point?” he told her honestly. “You’d leave and I wouldn’t get to know you. Besides, I know where you have breakfast, or used to,” he corrected himself, there was no way in heck that she would be going back there after that creepy fan had found her there. “If I were interested in selling you out to the media, wouldn’t I have told them where you were already? We’d be surrounded right now,”
“I suppose so, yes,” he could see a flash of raw vulnerability in her eyes and he knew that she desperately wanted to trust him. At that moment he could see what a real burden it was to be this famous, that she couldn’t even make plans to go over to somebody’s house for breakfast without the whole world dying to know the juicy details. He could almost see the conflict stirring inside her like a storm, Emma the celebrity warned her to stay away, to protect herself, but Emma the human being wanted desperately to trust him, to make a personal connection with someone that had nothing to do with her celebrity status. He suddenly felt a strong sense of empathy with her and he realised how isolated she must be, what she needed right now was a true friend, and hopefully, a future boyfriend, not some star-struck fan boy.
“I’ll tell you what,” it would mean an incredible sacrifice of dignity, but it would be necessary if he wanted to really get to know her, to make a connection to her as a human being. “If you come to mine and let me cook for you, I’ll tell you about my most embarrassing memory from high school, you can tell whoever you want,”… in case I spill the beans and we end up on the cover of tomorrow’s newspaper… he wanted to say, but he didn’t want that image in her mind anymore than what it already was.
“Alright then,” she smiled up at him. He kept his arm around her as they walked, happy beyond belief that she was still wearing his hat. It would protect her from prying eyes and honestly he would be happy if she never took it off. If he was ever unfortunate enough to get it back, he would never wash it. The hat itself seemed to represent his presence, protecting her from unwanted attention even when they weren’t together.
They walked together towards his apartment building, every step taking them closer and closer to his home, his haven, a place where they could be alone without the fear and pressure of constant surveillance. He had only a taste of what her world was like, and already he hated it. He could almost understand now, why so many old child stars ended up with drug and alcohol problems, and all he had to do was to keep an eye out for prying eyes on the way back to his apartment.
“So,” he kept looking at her out of the corner of his eyes, he still couldn’t believe that it was really her. I could just be a look-alike posing as Emma, though the odds at this point seemed unlikely. But were those odds more or less likely than not only running into the woman herself, but that she would come right up to him and ask him for help in a way that would result in the two of them going away somewhere private. He didn’t want to brag too much, but he wasn’t a bad looking guy, and there was every chance that she was a girl who happened to look like Emma Watson and she was trying to score a date, or simply enjoyed impersonating a celebrity for the attention. While the last thing he wanted to do was to scare her off in case she did turn out to be the real deal, if they spent time together it had to be because they genuinely seemed to enjoy each other’s company, not because she was a celebrity impersonator who was just looking for attention, if that were the case, then he would be left feeling like that he had been wasting his time, he wasn’t the kind of man who enjoyed being lied to.
“So, are you really…well, you?” he asked.
“Yes, I am,” she laughed, and he wondered how many times she had heard it, the “oh you couldn’t possibly be Emma Watson because if I gushed over you and you turned out to be someone else by mistake I’d just die of embarrassment,” spiel. Or the kind of people who assumed that celebrities were vampires or some kind of hermit who only left home under the cover of dark with a small army of bodyguards, photographers and assistants.
“I can show you my driver’s licence if you don’t believe me,” she offered with a small laugh, but he could see the worry in her eyes.
“It’s okay, I wasn’t about to go all stalker fanboy on you, I just…” Honestly, there was no way he could say it now, he was worried that he would sound too lame if he said out loud what he had been thinking.
“You just wanted to know if it was really me and I wasn’t some attention seeking look alike?” it was hard to real the expression in her eyes and now she was saying it out loud he started to feel a little embarrassed.
“It’s okay,” she smiled at him reassuringly when she saw the look he had on his face. “It happens more often than you’d think,”
“Really?” he asked, while he was still slightly embarrassed that he had brought it up, but now he was also curious. “It sounds like there’s a story behind that,”
“Well,” she looked down a little embarrassed before she continued. “I did catch a girl trying to pretend to be me trying to get free makeup samples,”
“Seriously?” he asked, not sure what he was feeling more, entertained or just confused. “Why on earth would she do that?”
“It was at Sephora, everything there is usually pretty expensive,” she explained. Normally he didn’t really get makeup, but he understood the gist of what she was saying.
“Can’t imagine she was happy to see you,” he commented and she laughed.
“She was really quite thrilled actually, until she realised that I had heard the whole conversation she had with the sales girl,”
He laughed with her as they stepped in through his front door. He looked around his apartment with an uncomfortable sense of dread. It wasn’t as bad as it could have been, but he hadn’t taken the garbage out and there were odd things lying around along with some empty beer cans and some laundry. He knew that he should have cleaned up as he was stepping out the door, but he had figured that it could wait until he got back, he hadn’t really intended to bring anyone back.
“I…have you got a bathroom?” she asked.
“Oh yeah, down the hall,” he showed her where it was before running around his apartment frantically. He briefly wondered if she really did need to use his bathroom or if she could see how badly he wanted to clean up and knew that he didn’t want to make her uncomfortable by tidying up right in front of her. He threw the laundry in the machine, any garbage in the bin and did his best to straighten everything up, so he wasn’t too embarrassed when she emerged from the bathroom. She smiled at him and he felt butterflies inside him, he was looking forward to spending the day with her.
He stood back to admire his handiwork, the place wasn't as clean as he would like, but it was at least semi presentable and he felt a whole lot less embarrassed to let Emma see the place. He heard the sound of footsteps and turned to see Emma standing in front of him. She was smiling at him with such glare in her eyes like she wanted to tell him that he cleaned up his place really quickly and that she really went to the bathroom just to give him some time.
“Your place looks so nice. It is so comfortable and warm” – she smiled. David understood the catch and he laughed.
“Well, thank you. It usually looks even better than it does now. I was in a hurry these days, so I did not have much time to clean this up and you know…” - Emma interrupted him in the middle of his sentence wanting him to understand that she does not really care whether he cleans his apartment or not and that there was no reason why he should feel ashamed at that moment.
“I really enjoyed having breakfast in the restaurant. It is a great start of the day for me. And I must admit that I was feeling even better when I saw that you are sitting on the opposite table. It felt like I have company. Like there was someone that is into me not into the celebrity. It was just a great feeling that I had”. – At that moment David did not know how to react. He was not sure what would be the right reply to this saying. At that moment, David decided to show her the Harry Potter collection he had kept in his bedroom in order to show her that he admires her work and that he knows how greats she is. His intention was to show her that despite knowing that she is an excellent actress, he wanted to get to know the real Emma Watson, not just Hermione.
He brought the Harry Potter collection in front of her. He thought that she would be surprised, but she stood up from the sofa. Her look was insecure and she became anxious.
“I really think I should go now”. David was confused and did not know what to do.
“Sorry, Emma” – he said “I am a big fan of yours, but I did not bring you here because of that. The first time I saw you at the restaurant was destiny. I did not even know that you were going there. The times after that I went there on purpose, because I wanted to meet Emma not Hermione. I know a lot of things about her, but I do not know Emma. And I will be thrilled if I get the chance to meet you. I just wanted us to get to know each other better” – His voice calmed while he was saying the last words.
Emma was hesitating but he seemed like a good guy who was telling the truth.
“I guess we can grab a cup of coffee sometimes in the restaurant” – she smiled.
David smiled at her. “The pleasure would be mine”!
David was glad that everything went perfectly regarding the awkward situation when he showed Emma his Harry Potter collection. In fact, that was his biggest fear since he had met her or the very first time in the nearby restaurant. He was glad everything was over, so now he was ready for a brand new start. He was kind of feeling the vibes he was getting from Emma and it seemed like a great sign that Emma was enjoying his company just as much as he did.
“Would you like to have a coffee now? I did not have a coffee this morning because I wanted to go to the restaurant first in order to check whether you will be there.” – It seemed like David spilled the beans with the last few words. He started blushing and in a few seconds, his face was red. The damage was done. He could not do anything about it. He tried to save this situation because he could feel the tension floating in the air. It seemed like Emma was feeling a bit uncomfortable also.
“Or maybe you would like some tea? I have some herbal tea, fruit tea… or if you want some coffee that is fine… - David started stammering because he was feeling even more uncomfortable... – “Yeah, coffee is a good idea” – he tried to come to his senses – “Would you like some sugar or milk in your coffee? – David started moving slowly to the kitchen.
“Yeah, sure, coffee is fine. I am not such a great fan of tea. I prefer coffee.” – Emma replied.
While David was in the kitchen, Emma was looking around David’s living room. She wanted to get to know him better and to realize whether they have something in common so that they can talk about it when he returns to the living room. There was a certificate from the major for his charity work and helping those in need. Also, David wanted to help the pensioners and the single mothers. She felt like her heart was melting because now she was certain that he really as a heart of gold and that he is not just a creepy fan of hers.
“I am sorry, it seems like I run out of coffee, so I made some tea. I hope that is not a problem.” – David felt a bit ashamed because this was the second embarrassing thing this morning – firstly the room was a mess and secondly, he did not have the basic “survival” ingredients in the kitchen.
“No, it is okay. It smells delicious. “– Emma wanted to take the cup in his hands, but she spilled the tea on the carpet because it was too hot.
“I am so sorry. I will clean this up right away.” – Emma was also ashamed.
“No, it is okay. I think this means we should go to some coffee shop and buy some coffee. It seems that tea is not a good idea, but coffee is” – David smiled.
“Yes, that would be great. I really need one now. I will grab my jacket.”
David and Emma left David’s home and they were shocked. There were a bunch of people with cameras waiting for them in front of the house. They started taking photos and it became really noisy and loud.
“What is that? How did they find out? Oh, this is a disaster! – Emma was desperate.
“I don’t know. Come here, we will escape through the back door!”
David grabbed Emma’s hand and led her to the back door of his home. Emma decided to believe David this time because he had the feeling that he is a really good man with good intentions. Although, she had one small grain of doubt in her soul that David might have been the one who had called the media and told them that she was there in his home. Anyways, she was a famous actress and she had learnt that in a job like hers, a man must be aware of everything. This time, she had no other choice than to believe him that everything will turn out great at the end of this mess.
Emma walked with her eyes closed all the time while they both were going to the back door. It seemed like she was blinded from the flashlight of the cameras. They went downstairs to the basement because David needed the key to the back door. After a while, David managed to find the key and he opened the door. But, something unexpected happened. When David opened the door, several men were waiting outside with the cameras in their hands. Some of them had some microphones with them and started asking a lot of questions. Emma panicked and David was very nervous because he was feeling like he was letting Emma down. It was a terrible moment for both of them.
David tried to calm down and started yelling at the journalists. “This was enough gentlemen, now get out of here immediately this is a private property and you are not allowed to get in here. You have no permission to jump over the fence and come in my yard in front of the door. You have two seconds to leave or I will be calling the police.” – David was very frustrated and even his face turned red. Emma wanted to help David put an end to this misery and decided to step ahead.
“It’s okay David. The gentlemen want to ask me a few questions. Come on gentlemen. Each of you can ask only one question. I have no time.” – Emma tried to look calm and keep a natural look on her face.
“Who is this Emma? Is this your new boyfriend? Tell us more about him.
“Well, I thought you were going to ask something about me, but here you are for a juicy gossip about my friend. – Emma giggled and tried to make this situation less tense. “Well, I am sorry to disappoint you, but this is my friend. I am here to help him in his tough times. He has been doing some charity work and he also helps the retired people. Another one?
“What is his name, why were you hiding him?”
“I am not hiding him, as I said, he needs some help and some good company, that means a little privacy is required in these situations. You do not need his name, or I will give you the challenge to discover it by yourselves” – Emma smiled.
“Are you going to have a cup of coffee with him at the restaurant again?” – The last question made Emma really upset. She did not expect this question and felt a little bit shocked because she thought no one saw her leaving with David from the restaurant. Or, after all, maybe it was David.
“Well, what I question. I don’t know the answer to that question. – Emma laughed again in order to look less tense.
“Okay, you got what you want. Now get out of here.” – David yelled at the journalists.
“This was a really unpleasant situation. I do not know how all of this happened. I just wanted some quiet time with you, just one simple cup of coffee… Look at all of this mess. They are still in the yard. I do not know what to do. I think I should call the police!” – David seemed really upset. He felt like he owed some reasonable explanation to Emma for all of this mess. He felt a little bit guilty.
“No, it will be even worse. The police will question us also. They may report this to the media and it will be even worse. They will make a whole new story, leaving out my previous interview. I am not sure if the press believed my story, but it is better to leave it like this than to make it even worse” – Emma took a really deep breath. She seemed very frustrated. She was walking around the room, biting her nails and trying to come up with a solution.
“Let’s go somewhere. I cannot stay in here any longer. Take your jacket. We are going somewhere where it is less crowded.” – David tried to calm the situation.
“Where are we going? We can go to any public place. There might be someone who may recognize me.” – Emma replied.
“Well, I have a cousin who has a cabin in the woods. Maybe we can go there and have a cup of coffee. It is really quiet there. There is no other cabin near his so I am sure there will be no people. We can get there in an hour”
“Are you sure David?” – Emma gave David a fierce glare.
David seemed a bit confused. “Yes, I am Emma! Why are you asking this?”
“Because so many coincidences happened in the past few hours that I can even process all of the information in my head. On the one hand, you say you just want to get to know me as a person, not just as an actress, but on the other hand, there are a bunch of people in your year with cameras and microphones just at the time when I was at your home? This situation is confusing” – Emma sat down on the sofa.
“I feel so betrayed and abused” she made a pause and continued “you are the same just like everyone out there!”
“Wait, wait, what is this supposed to mean?” – David was confused. “Are you blaming me for all the mess? I am not the one who informed the media that you were here!”
So how do you explain this? These people must have been informed by someone and that someone is you. I should have left at the moment when I saw that Harry Potter collection. I am so stupid.”
“That is insane. I did not do that. I am a fan of yours, but I just wanted to get to know you. This is not my plan. You are so wrong!” – David was desperate.
“I don’t believe you anymore David!”
The weather was cloudy and it started to rain. Emma was sitting quietly on the sofa and David was sitting on the chair in the opposite direction of her. Both of them could hear the raindrops outside because no-one was trying to say something. It was very quiet in the room, but it was not peaceful at all.
“I think I should go now” – these words broke the silence in the room.
“But, wait, where are you going?” – David tried to stop Emma from leaving his house and maybe leaving his life too.
“I don’t know, but I am definitely not staying here in this place where I feel betrayed and used. I do not know what would I do next, but I am not staying here with you David.”
“Well, okay, I understand your feelings and I can only imagine how you feel right now, but could you please listen to me one more time?” – David was very upset.
“No, David, please, I am tired of hearing the same story over and over again from different people. I need some space to think about this mess, about everything that happened lately. I am so tired and confused and stressed...” – Emma was interrupted by David.
“It is okay, Emma, I get it. You can go now. I apologize for everything, but it was not my fault at all. I did not want things to end up like this. I am sorry…” – David tried to hide the disappointment on his face.
It was really dark and cold outside. The rain seemed to become heavier and the trees were shaking like they were scared of the wind. Emma could not think of a place where she could go now. She was just wandering the streets alone. She passed the restaurant where she met David for the first time and she decided to go there for a warm cup of coffee. There were just a few people so she did not need to hide and she could finally relax for a bit.
The waiter approached her and asked “Hello young lady. Can I get you something?”
“Oh, yes a cup of coffee, please. No sugar.” – Emma replied.
“Right away Miss.” – The waiter seemed indecisive as he wanted to ask something. After a few seconds, he asked the question “Sorry, it is none of my business, but you seem like you need some company. Mr. David is not here with you and he is such a great man. He has been coming to this restaurant for 6 months now, he is very generous also. He leaves enormous tips” – The waiter smiled.
“And Miss, I wanted to let you know that some people asked for Mr. David’s home just after you and Mr. David left the restaurant. I know that you are a popular star, so I wanted to let you know, maybe you are in trouble, but it is nothing serious. This is a small place, we are like…” – The waiter seemed like he would talk forever and Emma interrupted him.
“It is okay, I get you. Thanks for telling me this. Here is some money for the coffee, I do not need it and keep the rest as a tip.”
Emma rushed out the restaurant and went straight to David’s house. She was wrong. She had rung the bell and David opened the door.
“I want to talk to you David.”
At first, David was confused. He did not expect to see Emma again, except on TV. In fact, he was astonished and he could not hide how surprised he was. After a few seconds, he decided to change his look on his face like this situation was not weird for him at all. His heart was pounding and millions of possible scenarios were running through his head. He wondered why Emma was there in front of his door after she left without listening to his explanations.
David decided to play hard to get so he replied “I do not know if there is even something we can discuss about because as I remember you left and said there is nothing we should talk about..” he noticed that Emma was annoyed by his comment, so he decided to control himself a little because at least she had the courage to come back. “Anyway, please come in. It is really cold outside, you are all wet.”
Emma sat on the couch and took off his jacket. “Do you like some tea; you know I still do not have any coffee. – David smiled. He was glad Emma was there on his sofa again.
“Yes, please. I think a cup of tea will be great. I am all wet. I am afraid I will catch a cold.” – Emma sneezed.
“Oh, I am sorry. I can lend you some of my clothes if you want to feel more comfortable. And here is the hairdryer. Your hair is so wet.”
“Oh, no! It is okay. The hair dryer is enough. Do not worry!” – Emma liked the attention she was receiving from David. Now she was certain that the waiter at the restaurant was telling the truth just like David did.
Emma dried her hair. While she was drinking the tea David was preparing snacks for them. When he brought the snacks Emma was nervous because she did not know how David will react to what she wanted to tell him.
“Look, David. I am here to apologize to you. I am sorry for not believing in you, in everything you said. I accused you of calling the media, for being a freak, for wanting to abuse me and… I am sorry. You are a great man who wanted nothing else but my company; you are not just like the other... I am sorry. I am not used to people being nice to me without expecting something in return.
David was excited and very happy because finally, Emma realized that he was a good man.
“It is okay. I understand you. If I were you, I would react the same way. Do not worry. Let’s have a quiet evening. I think we deserve this after all the chaos which happened.
“I cannot believe we made it” – David was looking at Emma with love sparkles in his eyes.
“I know, I still cannot believe that we survived the media chaos after announcing that we are together now. My eyes still hurt from the flashlight during the last year. The paparazzi have been following us for a year and they finally got all the juicy details about our relationship” – Emma laughed.
“I know. But there is still something our love needs to survive and to be honest, I am a little bit worried about it. In fact, I am very nervous about meeting our parents. They will be here any minute. Does my hair look good?” – David was a bit trembling.
“Don’t worry; everything will be fine you will see. They will like you. In fact, they do not have to like you. You are in a relationship with me with them. Relax, you look great and everything will be fine.” – Emma tried to console him.
“I know, but for them, I am just… just an ordinary guy. I am not famous, I do not have a lot of money. I do not know. I am afraid they will be against this love.”
“Oh, come on David. Don’t make this situation so dramatic like this is a love between Romeo and Juliet. We survived the worst and now we should enjoy the best and forget about the rest.”
“I don’t know” – It seemed like David did not believe the words that Emma was saying.
“Oh, here they are.” – The bell had rung and Emma opened the door. “Come in! You have arrived finally. I am eager to introduce you to David.
David was sitting on the sofa and when Emma’s parents entered the room, he stood up.
“Madam, sir, nice to meet you. My name is David” – They shook hands.
“Nice to meet you, David. Emma told us so much about you and, I must admit, I could not wait to meet you! - Emma’s mother tried to make this situation more pleasant and comfortable.
“Oh, the pleasure is mine” – David tried to sound polite.
During the lunch Emma’s mother asked a lot of questions about David’s past, his education, his family, his ambitions and his career. It seemed more like an interrogation in a police station rather than a family lunch. David tried to be as polite as possible in order to leave a good first impression. After the lunch, they moved to the living room in order to have a coffee. Emma’s mother seemed like she was not satisfied with the answers.
“Emma, could you come for a moment in the kitchen. I cannot find anything here. I really want a cup of well homemade coffee”
“Yes, mom, I am coming”
When Emma entered the kitchen, her mother seemed angry and looked at her with a glare.
“Wait, what’s wrong” – Emma asked her mother.
“How do you mean Emma? Don’t you see! This man is a gold digger. He is into your money”
“Oh, mom, stop! That is not true. He has a heart of gold”
“No, Emma, that is not true. This man just wants you because of your money.”
“I am not going to listen to this right now.” – Emma left the room.
“Emma, come here! I am talking to you! – Emma’s mother was furious.
“Is there something wrong Emma? I heard your mother calling your name” – Emma’s father was a little bit worried about the situation.
“No, dad, everything is fine. You know, I and my mother always have some arguments. Do not worry”.
“Oh, okay. Is she still in the kitchen? I will check on her.”
“Yes, dad. She is there. And please let her know that David and I are waiting for the coffee.”
Emma’s mother and father came into the living room after a minute. Emma’s mother brought the cups of coffee and put them on the table.
“So David, what are you doing for a living?”
“Well, I do some charity work at the moment. I love helping the elderly.”
“So, you want to say that you are unemployed.”
“Well, I got a wage working with the elderly. The authorities in the hospital have provided me with a small wage. I own my house, so I don’t need much”
“Hmm, what about your education? Have you been to university?”
“Well, I haven’t. My parents could not cover the university fees and I applied or a scholarship, but unfortunately, I did not get it.”
“And what about your future? Do you have any plans?”
“Well, not really. I do not like planning everything in advance. I like to go with the flow. I believe in destiny. The most important thing is to be happy.
David seemed a little uncomfortable. He tried to give Emma’s parents a good first impression, but somehow it did not work out. In the beginning, it seemed like everything was going well, but now it seems like Emma’s mother has even more questions for him and David must answer everything correctly in order to accomplish his mission.
“It’s getting late. I really need to go. I have some work to do. “– David took his jacket from the hanger in the hall and it seemed like he was running away from something. He was confused and nervous.
“No David, wait. Do you have some time for a stroll in the park? The weather is sunny and it seems like you really need some fresh air.” – Emma was a little worried. He could only imagine what he was going through.
“No, Emma. You have guests. I know that your parents do not visit you very often, so I think you should spend more time with them. It is okay, I will call you tomorrow. “
“It is okay David. Just one hour. I think my parents will not mind. In fact, they also need a rest. My father was driving the whole morning just to get here. Right, dad?”
“Yes, sure Emma, do not worry. You can go out. Your mother and I will clean the table and after that, I will have a nap. We will wait for both of you for a dinner. There is a lovely restaurant down the street. I really think we should spend some time together. I really enjoyed your company, David. It was nice talking to you.” – David and Emma’s father shook hands.
“It was a pleasure for me too Mr. Watson. Nice talking to you. Please pass my greetings to Mrs. Watson. It was a pleasure to meet you. Emma was talking about you a lot.” – David tried to look calm.
“No problem. See you soon.”
David and Emma left the house. David was anxious and did not know how to react. He tried to give his best to leave a good impression, but he did not manage to. \
“What is wrong? Are you upset about the meeting with my family?” – Emma tried to help David.
“I do not know what I did wrong. I tried my best to look calm and to be as polite as possible. I really wanted to leave a good impression. This is important for me. I know that your parents are very important in your life and I wanted to…” – David was more confused than ever.
“David, you do not know my mother. She has always been suspicious about my boyfriends. That is just the way she is. She is just worried about me and she wants me to be happy. That is all. This is not about you believe me.”
“It did not seem this way. I do not know. I am afraid that your parents will not like and that it will affect your decision to be with me”. – David’s voice sounded really worried.
“No, believe me. Nothing will change my feelings, we survived everything and we will survive this too. Now go home. Relax, take a shower, have a coffee. After that, you can call me. You will feel better then.” – Emma tried to help.
“Okay, it has been a really stressful day. I will go home. Thank you, sweetie. I love you”
Emma went home. Her parents were waiting for her in the living room. Her mother was very nervous.
“Emma, sweetie... “– She began the conversation “you know that we love you the most and that we only want the best for you. I do not want to interfere with your decisions. You are a strong and independent woman and we respect and care about you.” – Emma interrupted her mother.
“Okay, mom. Please go to the main point of your monolog”
“Well, David is not the right for you. He is a gold digger. He only wants you for your money. He is only interested in your millions.”
“Mom, how have you figured it out from a 2-hour lunch? This can’t be possible” – Emma was furious.
“Well, think about this. He wants to meet with us, so he is rushing to get married and own your money. He has no job, no high education. The only thing he has is just ‘a heart of gold’. You are really innocent and naĂŻve Emma. I want to help you.
Emma was confused. What if all of this was true? – This doubt flashed through her mind.
“Emma, where is he now?”
“Home” – Emma replied.
“Why did he run away?”
“Because he was tired and he has something to do” – Emma replied.
“A lie! He went home because he knows that I know his intentions.”
“Please, mom stop! I will go upstairs. I really need to rest”
While she was going to her room, Emma was afraid that her mother was right. He really needed to think about all of this one more time. Her head was in chaos.
Emma did not feel very well. A lot of thoughts were running through his head. In the last 2 hours, a lot of things happened. She thought that it will be a lovely day with her boyfriend and her parents, but it turned out to be quite the opposite. On the one hand, she was certain when it comes to her feelings towards David, but on the other hand, her mother’s words made sense. What if all of that was true? What if her mother was right? What if David really loves her? In that case, she will lose a true love that makes her so happy – happier than ever. She decided to have a nap and hopefully, all of her problems and thoughts would fade when she wakes up. Emma took her soft blanket and her pillow. Now, her bed seemed to be more comfortable than ever. The bed seemed to be the solution to all of her problems. She decided that it is time to relax a bit otherwise she will become insane. She started thinking about some great place where everyone is happy, where everyone has a smile on their faces in a stress – free environment. After a few minutes, she fell asleep.
Meanwhile, David was really anxious. He knew that he had to do something really quickly, but he did not know what. He was wandering around the room trying to come up with a solution for this mess. Now his problem was even bigger than before. Now it was time to convince Emma’s mother that he is in love with her. First, he tried to convince her and now he had to do the same with her mother. He was desperate because he was aware that he could not do anything that will convince Mrs. Watson to believe him. It was getting really late. It was almost midnight, but he could not fall asleep. He was thinking about Emma, about her parents and about the possible solution of the problem. He had the hopes that the next day will be a new beginning for him and for Emma.
The next morning David went to Emma’s home. He was exhausted. He could not sleep all night long. So, he decided that it was time to have an honest conversation with Mrs. Watson and clear it up. He rang on the doorbell.
“Oh, good morning David. Honestly, I did not expect to see you here. What a surprise! – David could feel the tone of irony in Mrs. Watson’s voice. He decided to stay calm and talk to her.
“Good morning Mrs. Watson. I am glad you are still here. I just wanted to s….” – David was interrupted by Mrs. Watson.
“If you want to talk to Emma, I just want to let you know what she is not here and probably would not come back until lunch, so I am sorry that you wasted your time. I am sure you had something else to do today.” – Mrs. Watson smiled.
“Good. I do not come for Emma. I am here because I want to talk to you about something important.” – David was persistent.
“I am not sure that we have some pending conversation David. With all my respect, I kindly ask you to leave now, because I am so busy right now”
“Who is that mom? – Emma asked from the living room.
“No one, sweetie.” – replied Mrs. Watson.
“It is me, Emma. Please let me in” – David sounded desperate.
Emma came in the hall - “David, what are you doing here”?
“We need to talk” – David answered.
At that moment something unbelievable happened. The sky turned gray and the wind turned into a tornado. There was a terrible storm. Everyone was in a panic. People were running, trying to find a place where to hide. It was really dangerous.
“David, mom, come here in the basement. We need to survive this. It is an apocalypse. Hurry up!” – They all were in a panic.
It was really horrible. A lot of people died. There was an earthquake a tornado and a terrible storm. Everything was ruined. Just for a couple of hours, everything was ruined. There was nothing felt. No humans, no infrastructure, no animals – nothing. It was an apocalypse. Emma was right. They found out about all of this when they got out of the basement. They were terrified. They were crying because of the situation, but on the other side, they were aware how lucky they were to be alive and to be the only four people to survive this chaos.
Mrs. Watson was crying. “I am sorry David. I was very cruel to you. All of this should have happened in order to understand how wonderful man you are. You saved me. You dragged me to the basement and saved my life. I am so glad my daughter was right. I really would like you to be my son-in-law.”
The truth was that David was feeling relieved because this whole situation with Emma’s mother was finally over. But on the other hand, there was nothing around them. They were the only 4 survived humans on the planet. Emma’s house was not in a really bad condition and that was a miracle. The roof was a little damaged, but everything else was in perfect conditions, except her front and backyard. There was no front door and some of the windows were broken. Despite all, they were happy that they were alive, everything else could be fixed. Luckily, there was some coffee left in the kitchen and that was a ‘the survival juice’ for Emma and David. All four of them poured some coffee into their cups and sat on the sofa in the living room in silence.
It was a really complicated situation for all of them. A lot of things happened in the past 24 hours so all of them really needed to think carefully and to come up with a solution on how to continue living their lives because this was a disaster.
“I cannot believe this!” – Emma broke the silence.
“Me neither” – David continued. “I must admit that in the last 24 hours my life has been really stressful and a lot of things happened to me. I was worried about the meeting with you Mr. and Mrs. Watson, because I swear I did not have any other hidden intentions with your daughter. Emma is the love of my life. I am so glad that we managed to solve this misunderstanding, but... I think this is so over the line... I mean…. I cannot believe we are the last 4 humans on this planet. This is a disaster. I think that I might be homeless now. I could only imagine what happened to my house. I have been saving my whole life in order to buy my house and now it is gone…. I can’t believe it...
David was confused just like all of the other people in the room. They wanted to console him, but they could not find the words to do it because they were in a similar situation. Emma was the only one who had a house for now.
“I understand David” – Emma’s father tried to say something in order to contribute to David’s miserable monologue. “My wife and I seem to be in the same situation. I have no idea what is happening in our neighborhood with our home. I cannot believe we ended up all alone. There are no more people. I feel such sadness for all of our friends and relatives. Now, Emma and you are the only thing we have left. I am so glad you and my wife finally compromised and solved your issue… This is so terrible!
“I can only imagine Mr. Watson” – David stood up from the sofa.
“I am sorry, I will leave now. It seems a bit dangerous now outside, but I want to see my house. I can’t sit here forever wondering what might have happened to my home.
“No, David, wait.” – Emma was socked. “I understand, but you can’t go alone. Something might happen to you. I can’t leave you like this. I will come with you.”
“Emma, David himself said that it is so dangerous. I will come with you. In fact, we can all go together. What else can we do here? We will all go. Just a second, I will be right back.” – Emma’s dad went upstairs to take something and came down.
After an hour of walking they managed to come in front of David’s house. It was ruined. Everything was demolished. David was crying. It was a terrible moment. Everything was ruined around them - all the buildings, the gardens, and the road. It was just like a different universe. David was crying and crying.
“Oh my God, what a terrible dream! David woke up. It was almost midnight. He was so tired because of the situation with Emma’s parents that he fell asleep while thinking how to solve the misunderstanding. On the one hand, he was glad that it was just a dream. We have his house now and everything is just like usual. There were other houses and people, but also there is the problem with Emma’s parents. What if Emma changes her mind? And there he was at the beginning again. At least his nightmare was over, but now he had to think how to convince Emma’s mother that he loved Emma more than anything.
One more day passed and as the days were passing by, David was more and more nervous about this whole situation with Emma’s mother. He was feeling like he has no longer control over the situation and like Emma was slipping from his hands. He was so in love with her and after everything they had been through he could not let this become just one more relationship in the past. He struggled a lot with his inner self to convince Emma how madly he is in love with her. He was so afraid that she would not accept him with all of his positive sides and his flaws. Just because of this simple reason, he decided to keep his secret to himself and he did not tell Emma the whole truth about who he really is. Emma’s mother now is pushing him in a way to tell Emma the truth, even though she was not aware of it. She had the ability to recognize that David was hiding something from Emma, but she could not interpret what it was actually. In order to solve this misunderstanding, David had only one option at his disposal and it was very simple – he had to tell Emma and her parents the truth about his past and also his present.
He wore a white nice shirt in a combination with black pants. He combed his hair nicely and put some perfume and lotion. He wanted to feel good and look good in order to increase a bit his self – esteem. He locked the door of his house and went straight to Emma’s house. While he was walking towards the place, he noticed that Emma rang several times in the morning. He did not want to return her calls because he knew that she would notice that something was happening and he did not want to sound nervous on the phone. He rang one more time, but he denied the call and decided to hurry up.
He was finally there. He rang the doorbell twice and was waiting for someone to open the door. He was hoping that it would be Emma and not someone else. Unfortunately, it was Emma’s mother.
“Good morning, Mrs. Watson. Nice to see you again. Is Emma home?” – David tried his best to sound as usual.
“Hmm, good morning David. I did not expect that you will come again at least while we are staying here, but okay I guess Emma would like to see you one more time, you know just to clear some things up” – She put a fake smile on her face.
David entered the living room. There were Emma and his father sitting on the sofa. Emma seemed pretty surprised when she saw him.
“David!? I did not expect you here as you did not return any of my calls. I think we need talk in private now” – Emma was a bit worried.
“No, Emma. We all need to talk. I am glad your parents are also here because they also need to hear this.”
“No, this is between you. Darling, let’s go for a walk and leave them alone” – Mr. Watson tried to be polite.
“No Mr. Watson, please stay here. I would like you to be here” – David replied.
“Yes, I would not miss this for nothing in the world” – added Mrs. Watson.
David began “You were right Mrs. Watson. I am hiding something from Emma and from all of you. With your mother instinct, you noticed that I was trying to hide something, but it is not what you mean that it is.” – David made a pause.
“Go on David. We are listening” – replied Mrs. Watson with pride in her voice.
“I have my own money Mrs. Watson do not worry about me wanting to enjoy Emma’s money. I am a lawyer and I defend criminals in the court. I defend people who had done some very terrible and nasty things. I have a degree and I have a job and I have my money, I am not into Emma’s money. I love her without any other intention.” – David finished.
They were all shocked and could not say a word, especially Emma. They sat in silence for a minute. Emma tried to get up from the sofa, but she could not.
“I am not feeling well” – Emma fainted.
“Emmaaa!” – They all screamed at the same time.
“Oh, honey, please react! Emma, please respond” – Mr. Watson was trying to lift her from the ground and put her on the sofa. He checked her pulse and everything was fine.
“Oh, dear God. I will call 911. My only daughter, oh, I cannot believe this! This was a huge shock for her.”- Mrs. Watson was panicking. She did not know how to react, but she knew that she must do something in order to save her daughter. Her husband seemed to know how to handle the situation because at least it looked like he was aware of what he was doing.
Mrs. Watson splashed her with water on her face and started shaking her. Mr. Watson was massaging her feet and was praying for her to wake up. David was feeling guilty ad he did not know what to do. He was just standing in the middle of the room trying to figure out what has just happened because he did not expect this scenario at all. He imagined a lot of possible scenarios in his head, but he did not think about this at all. He was just staring at Emma and hoping that she will wake up at any moment and after a few seconds she finally opened her eyes.
“Emma, thank God! Oh sweetie, we were so worried about you. How are you feeling? Are you feeling good? Do you want some water or something? – Emma’s mother seemed relieved but she was still in a panic, hoping that Emma will say something that will calm her pounding heart.
“I feel dizzy, I feel a terrible pain in my head, please stop talking” – Emma looked exhausted and fragile.
“Yes, sweetie, we will not say anything, but please let us know whether you feel good. In case you don’t feel well we can take you to the hospital, so that the doctor will see whether everything is okay. What do you say about that?” – Mr. Watson explained how worried he was, but it seemed like Emma was not listening.
“I just want to sleep” – That was the only reply of Emma.
“Yes, sure sweetie, I will cover you with your blanket.” – Emma’s mother went upstairs to take Emma’s blanket from her bedroom.
“Excuse me Mr. Watson, I will go home. I think you do not need me here anymore. In this situation, I think that I am the last person that Emma would like to see at the moment. I will talk to you as soon as she feels better” – David sounded worried.
“Yes, young man. You need to go home now. There is a long conversation waiting for you and Emma. But now, you must go. Emma does not need to be more upset.” – Emma’s father was talking without looking at him in order to show him that now he was also mad at him just like his wife and Emma.
David left Emma’s house. He could not remember how many times he had left this house with the feeling of guilt, regret, worry and anxiety. He was feeling like he was sinking more and more and there was no one and nothing that could save him. He decided to have a long walk in order to clear his mind and his thoughts. He was wandering the streets with his hands in his pockets trying to figure out what went wrong. After hours and hours of walking he realized that only because he was scared at the beginning to tell her the truth, now he has to deal with the consequences. The fault was hidden in David’s thoughts. He was afraid from the very beginning to tell her who he really was. He had millions of chances, but he still could not do it. He was feeling like all of this was his fault. Even though he gave his best, this relationship did not work. He was still in love with Emma, even more than before, but he was disillusioned because every time he tried to fix things it turned out to be worse even more than before.
He took off his shoes and went straight to bed. He was feeling tired, but more mentally than physically. He was feeling guilty and the guilt did not let him sleep. He kept thinking and thinking, when all of the sudden his phone rang. His vision was blurred, but when he tried to see better in the screen he realizes it was Emma. It seemed this night will be one more long night for him.
“Hello” – David answered the phone like he had something in his throat.
“Hi, David, thank God you answered. I thought that something has happened to you too. I have just woken up, but I think I will fall asleep soon again. The medications made me sleep all day. Anyway, how are you? I really think we should have a serious conversation, but not now I am exhausted! Can you please come tomorrow at my house?”
“I am fine. I am glad you feel better now. I was so worried about you.” – David was relieved.
“Do not worry. That was a shock for my body. I will be all better tomorrow”
“However, about coming to your house tomorrow is not a really good idea. I mean your parents must be really mad at me. I do not know.... I am more interested in how do you feel about me and about this whole situation Emma. I do miss you!” – David was a bit desperate.
“I can’t talk about that now, David. Call me tomorrow, okay?”
“Sure, sweet dreams” – David hanged up.
The next morning, Emma’s parents were in the living room. They were having a cup of coffee and they were waiting for Emma to come down. They were talking about something and when they noticed Emma was coming down, they immediately stopped the conversation.
“Good morning, may I join your discussion?”- Emma tried to be funny.
“:No dear, it was nothing. Your father and I were talking about the news on TV” – Emma’s mother tried to avoid telling Emma what they were talking about.
“Mom, I am not 5 years old. Come on, tell me!
Mr. Watson was determined. “She is right. This may be a vulnerable topic for her, but she must get over it, so we must talk about it”
“Okay, fine. Darling, we were talking about your boyfriend David, if you can still call him like that!” – Emma’s mother was sarcastic.
“Okay, yes, you can still call him my boyfriend. And what about him?
“Well, your father and I tried to find some reasonable explanation about his secrets and about his recent behavior. I mean, you must admit, his whole situation is just a mess. Why would a person hide that he was a successful career as a lawyer and he was hiding it from you for a long time. I mean there is nothing to be ashamed of. I have been thinking about his the whole morning and I still cannot come up with the reason why he did his”
“Your mother is right sweetie. He should have told us about his education and his career over lunch when we first arrived. Especially, when your mother kept asking on and on about that. And in that very moment he decided not to tell.” – Emma’s father was also worried about the situation.
“Unless, he did something that he is ashamed of, or he might have done something really terrible as a lawyer” – Emma’s mother proposed one possible reason.
“I must admit I have been thinking about this too the whole morning, but it seems like I cannot figure this out too” – Emma shared their opinion.
“You know, I have a friend who works at the local court. She is a lawyer too. She may know David and she can tell us some things about him. Do you agree Emma?”
“I do not know, mom. I think it may be better to wait for David and hear his explanation.”- Emma wanted to give the chance to David first.
“Well, sweetie, we gave him millions of chances and he waited until the last time and moreover, he did not tell us the whole truth. How many chances should we give him? I think I should call Julien. She is a very good friend of mine and if there is anything bad about David’s career she will tell me. She is a nice person. She will keep this to herself. She is not a chatty person. In fact, she really likes you. When you were a little girl, she believed in you that you will become a great star one day on the big screen.”
“Mom, stop. I want to ask David first.” – Emma raised her voice a bit.
Suddenly David appeared in the room.
“I am here now. There is no need to call someone. You can ask me anything. I am ready!
“David, I did not hear the bell ringing. Sorry, we were in a middle of a discussion!” – Emma tried to make the situation less uncomfortable for everyone in the room.
“Yes, I somehow overheard your conversation and I think it is a high time I solve the issue and make things clear. I know that you probably have a lot of questions, so here I am.” – David was determined, but Emma’s mother had a sarcastic comment on David’s statement, as always.
“Well, you finally find the courage to tell us the truth, David. You are aware that since the first day I have clearly let you know that I know that you were hiding something. I will not let you hurt my daughter...” – Emma’s mother was interrupted by her husband who wanted to make the situation less tense.
“It is okay, darling. Let David say what he wants to say.”
“Well, you are right. He finally decided to face the reality. Anyway, I will give you a chance or I will call my dear friend Julian. So, you choose!” – Emma’s mother tried to be harsher with David.
“Mother, stop! Don’t you think that this is my life and my boyfriend? I think that I might be invisible, because everyone in this room is speaking just like I am not present here. Stop it. I am so sick and tired to hear what everyone has to say except for me. It seems like you know more for me than I. This is so ridiculous. I will talk to David in private and please respect my decision! – Emma was furious.
“No, Emma I will say it now loudly and clearly.” – David was opposing.
“I refused to tell you the truth to all of you, not because I did something terrible, but because I succeeded in something I am not proud of. Some people consider it as a big success in my career, but I do not agree with that. It was very a very confusing period of my life because on the one hand, I was happy because I won, but on the other hand, it was not a very human act and the truth is that I needed some time to rethink all the events that happened in that period. So, instead to face with it, I decided to bury it deep in my memories and not to think about it ever again. So, when all of you asked about my career and my job I decided not to tell you because I did not want to go through it all over again” - It seemed like David had no intention to finish his monologue.
“Oh, David! For God’s sake, make it short. I am on my last nerve. Come on! This is like a movie scene from a romantic tragedy! - Emma’s mother was fed up from all of this drama.
“You are right Mrs. Watson. We finally agreed on something.” – David was feeling like something was blocking his breath all the time while he was speaking.
“I defended a serial killer – and I won! – David confessed.
In the room was quiet and no one dared to say something. They were all shocked and did not know how to react. David decided to stop this unpleasant silence in the room so decided to go on telling about this experience.
“There are two persons inside me. The one is very proud of what I did because it was a huge step forward in my career, but there is also the other person who feels very bad about that. It is a feeling as I have betrayed the families the victims, but all I did was part my job. So, I did not want to look like a monster on our first meeting Mrs. Watson, and that is because I decided not to tell the truth. I was also in the newspapers and on TV, so I was afraid you would recognize me.”
Emma’s mother did not say a word. She took a glass of water and went out in the garden. Mr. Watson left the room and went upstairs because everyone needed some alone time to think about this. David and Emma were alone in the room.
“David, why did not you tell me? I would have understood it. You know that my feelings for you are real.” – Emma took David’s hand.
“I did not want to give you a very bad first impression of me Emma. Please, believe me; I have no other intentions than to be with you and to love you with my whole heart. First was the Harry Potter collection, then the media, then your parents. I thought you would not handle the pressure.” – David was very sad. Just like Emma. Emma was feeling betrayed, but she was trying to overcome that feeling because she was still in love with him.
“Could you please forgive me?” – David was hoping for Emma’s forgiveness.
“I am not sure, David. Please give me some time to think”
David got home very disappointed. This was his scenario for quite some time. In the mornings he would go to Emma’s house with a lot of dreams and hopes, but in the evenings he always comes home very disillusioned and miserable. This time everything was said and the things were clear now. This seemed like the perfect solution for the situation and David decided to go for it and hoping that all of this will come to its end eventually. Unfortunately, nothing was as he hoped for. It was another cold night in his house; he was all alone with millions of thought running through his head and wondering if it all will be just like at the beginning when both of them were happy and in love.
With a cup of coffee, David was sitting next to the window. It was quite late but there were some people walking down the street holding hands and laughing. It all looked so simple, but for David love was an essential need and an endless pain at the same time. While he was drinking his coffee only one thought was keeping him awake – Will Emma ever forgive him?
The scenario was not much different for Emma too. She had the feeling that nothing will change. It seemed like her love was not really sufficient to cure her soul. She was lying in her bed and thinking about the recent events. Her phone rang. He immediately got off his bed hoping that she will see David’s number on the screen. Unfortunately, it was her manager.
“Hey, John! What’s up? – Emma tried to look cheerful
“Emma where are you? You have not returned my calls. What is going on? We have a premiere coming soon. The media is looking for you and for your interview. We must meet tomorrow to discuss the upcoming events.”
“It’s okay John. I understand. I am tired now. Talk to you tomorrow” – Emma hung up.
David was her only thought. She kept thinking and thinking and she realized that her love was greater than her sadness. Nothing really mattered. David has proven that he was the one. They are losing precious time.
“I miss you. Must see you now.” – that was the text message David has received at 1 am. He was so excited. The excitement was running through his bloodstream.
“Coming right away my baby. Love you”- David texted her and went straight to her house. Emma was waiting for him in the front yard.
David arrived in front of her house. Emma was there and as soon as she noticed him there she hugged him.
“Please do not say anything. I love you and nothing really matters. Please forgive me for being so selfish and self-centered. If I was you, I would do the same, so please let’s not waste our time. If you agree, please just nod and do not say anything” – Emma was truly happy for the first time.
David was nodding and there was a huge smile on his face. They were kissing in the yard when they heard Mrs. Watson’s voice.
“Stay away from my daughter. You have crossed the line. I will not let you fool her anymore. I am so done with you!
David was surprised. This was not something he could predict.
“I am sorry madam. You know my intentions and my past, so there will be no more misunderstandings. I love her more than anything.” – David tried to sound determined and polite at the same time.
“Mom, this was enough. I love him and I will not let you decide for me. David is spending the night here” – Emma was a bit angry.
“So, does this means that I have no other choice?”- Emma’s mother asked.
“I am afraid you are right” – Emma answered.
Emma convinced David somehow to spend the night in her home. When the tensions lowered they finally had the time to spend some alone time without anyone and anything in between. They have been waiting for this moment for a long time and now it all seemed like a part of a fairy tale. In their fairy tale they were not Emma – the famous actress and David – the famous lawyer. They were just two ordinary people who fell in love with each other and enjoying these peaceful moments together.
Unfortunately, the morning has arrived so soon and they had to deal the reality again, only that this time the reality was a bit sweet with a bitter finish because the happy couple needed to convince Emma’s parents that what they had was real.
David woke up and went out of the room with the intention to go down the hall and go to the bathroom. When he opened the door of the room there was an unpleasant surprise waiting for him in front of the door. That was Emma’s mother waiting for him so that they could have a small chat alone before Emma wakes up.
David was shocked when he saw Emma’s mother there. He tried to be kind, but he was so shocked and in order to hide his sock he started talking really fast. “Good morning Mr. Watson! I did not expect you here really. How are you? Well... I suppose you feel a bit confused because of the recent events, plus seeing me here this morning I guess was not really pleasant for you, anyway I must say that I also feel stressed lately because of the situation and believe me, I am at your disposal I am ready to do anything or to reply to all of your questions just to clear this situation believe me I…” – David was finally interrupted by Mrs. Watson
“David for God’s sake shut up and come with me in the kitchen. I have been waiting for you in front of the door for hours. I do not want Emma to wake up before we talk” – Mrs. Watson glared at him.
“It is too late mom. I am awake. I guess we can all come downstairs and enjoy in a family breakfast. And do not try to speak with David alone. We are together now and we will solve this together in a peaceful way.” – Emma was yawning. Emma’s mother left and while walking down the hall, she shouted “Come on honey, get up! Emma and David want to discuss something again.”
After 20 minutes all four were sitting in the dining room and they were eating quietly. Emma’s mother was trying to say something, but right before she wanted to say something she would give up and take a sip from her coffee.
“I can’t just sit and eat. What is going on here again? Why are you still together?” – Emma’s mother finally popped the question all of them wanted to discuss.
“The answer is simple! We love each other. We have solved all of our doubts, problems and answered each other’s questions and now we are happy and satisfied. That is all. And now I want you to accept David.” – Emma finished her monologue.
“Emma, this is not a scene in a theater. Stop saying some meaningless words from a fairy tale. We all have been upset for you, despite David of course! “– Mrs. Watson was speaking with irony again.
“Darling, stop it, please. Let them say what they want to say” – Mr. Watson tried to calm the tension in the room.
“I will say it now! “ – David was determined. “I love Emma and she loves me too. There have been some problems between us. Firstly, she did not believe me, and then I convinced her. Then you did not believe me, and then you found out about my career hat I wanted to hide from you because I was not really proud of some events. I want to apologize for everything. I am aware this was not a very good start. I understand that you are very important for Emma and that is why I want to ask you for your forgiveness with the promise that I will love her unconditionally and forever.”- David finished his speech.
“And now that was a monologue from a scene in a theater. I raise my glass with juice for David. I know that you are honest. You have my forgiveness and support young gentleman. May both of you be happy forever.” – Mr. Watson was smiling with joy I his eyes.
“I must admit. Emma’s father is right. I forgive you David. I want to apologize too. I was sometimes rude, but Emma is my daughter. I love her and I do not want her to suffer. I hope that from now on we can get along” – Mrs. Watson finally smiled.
“I love you mom and dad. This is one of the happiest days in my life”
“This is a great day for a brand new beginning, don’t you think it too David?” –Emma’s face was very bright and she was smiling.
“Yes, I do. It was high time!”
Emma’s phone was ringing all the time. It was her manager.
“Who is calling all the time?”
“It’s my manager. There is some event coming and he wants to discuss the details” Emma replied.
“Aww, so boring! But I have an interesting idea! Please turn off your phone and I will do as well with mine. We deserve a break. Let’s go somewhere where there will be no people, no media, and no phones. Just you and me! What do you think?”
Emma pretended like she was thinking about the idea.
“Hmm, I don’t know. I am not sure if I want to spend a whole day with you.”
“Oh, you must be kidding” – David was frowning.
“You bet I am Mr. David. I can’t wait! “– Emma was blissfully happy.
“Great, take the things you need. I will be back in 10 minutes just to prepare the car. A friend of mine has a cabin in the woods. We can spend the day there. It is very lovely and cozy. We can relax and enjoy! Only there is one rule. No phones allowed!” – David turned off his phone.
“I love it! I will be waiting for you in front of the house, but please give me a kiss. I will miss you these 10 minutes while you are away” – Emma was happier than ever.
Two hours later, David and Emma have arrived. The place was just like in a fairy tale.
“I love this place” – Emma was amazed. “Look at the forest and these lovely flowers. Everything is perfect! This is what I have been dreaming of all the time during our difficult period”
“Please, do not think about that! Come inside. Let’s make something for lunch. We can eat it on this lovely balcony outside. And we can also enjoy the sounds of the nature” – David grabbed the bags and went inside.
Both of them were in the kitchen making lunch. It was the most delicious lunch they have ever made. David had some really good skills when it came to cooking and Emma made a very delicious dessert. After they had finished making the lunch, they went out on the balcony. They enjoyed the view with a glass of wine while they were having lunch. Everything was more than perfect!
It was dusk already, but they did not notice because they were having such a great time.
“Darling, the day has ended. Can I turn on my phone? I really need to talk to John.” – Emma was a bit worried.
“Yes, sure! I will do so” – David replied.
When David turned on his phone, he received thousands of messages from his mother to call her back. He was worried a bit because he talks to his mother once in a week, so this was a really strange behavior. David decided to return the call.
“Hey, mom! I see you called. Is everything all right?” – David sounded a bit worried.
“You finally called! When were you going to tell me about the girl? I cannot believe I had to find out from the newspapers. And she looks familiar also.”
“Yes, mom. She is an actress. She had a role in the Harry Potter movies.”
“Oh, lord! I cannot believe this. Not her! It seems like I have not taught you well.” – She hung up.
“Who was that David” – Emma asked.
David tried to react like the call did not upset him. “Oh, it was my mother. She just wanted to ask how I was doing. That is all”- he kissed Emma in the forehead as a sign to calm her before the storm arrives again.
“Oh, okay. I suppose she knows about me”
“Well…” – David was a bit confused. On the one hand, he did not want to upset Emma, but on the other hand, he did not want to tell her the truth because that will mean an ending of their happiness and a new beginning of the previous torture they had.
He continued after the pause, “I think she does. I have just mentioned to her that I am seeing a girl, but with all the drama in the past days I can’t remember we spoke about you. I will tell her eventually, do not worry, this day is all about us and our love. Please do not involve my mother in this” – David tried to finish this unpleasant conversation.
Emma somehow sensed that something was wrong. David could not hide this from her. She knew him very well. On the way home, David was really quite. He only said a few words. It was like he was not the same person that came into the woods this morning. Emma tried to avoid the topic to because she was not prepared for another drama. She was afraid if she asked what the matter was she would receive bad news and they would be at the beginning again, so she decided to talk about something else.
“What do you think about taking a vacation from work for two weeks? We can visit some exotic place and drink cocktails all day near the beach. It would be fantastic.”- Emma tried to sound cheerful and excited.
“Hmm, yeah!” - David was mumbling because he was afraid that if he says something more, he would be discovered. He was thinking how to solve this problem without hurting Emma, but he did not want to lie to her again. So, he decided to pretend like he was having a headache.
“Sorry, Emma I have a headache. Will discuss this some other day”
“Okay, I do not feel like talking either. I know that you are hiding something again from and that upsets me. Your doubt upsets me again. So, I just talk about some random stuff so that I can give you a chance to tell me what is going on” – Emma was nervous.
“Nothing is going on. I guess I am just a bit tired” – David tried to avoid the topic again.
“For God’s sake! You are using the same words and the same excuses, just like every other time you want to hide something from me. You are such a bad actor, just to let you know. I can say what a person means just by looking at his or her face. I am an actor, I have played a lot of roles, so do not try to hide it from me!” – Emma was furious.
At that moment, David’s phone started to ring. It was his mother. Emma took the phone just to see who was calling. When she saw that it was her, she felt a bit relieved not knowing that that call was the beginning of another misery!
“Do not even think that this call saved you from the situation and this discussion. Answer it and we will continue.”
David denied the call because he knew exactly what his mother was going to tell him. He did not want Emma to hear all of that, especially now when she was furious.
“No, I think this is more important. I will call her back later. So, you were saying?” – He tried to look indifferent.
Emma started talking again when his mother called one more time.
“David, answer it. Something bad might have happened” – Emma insisted to take the call.
“No, Emma I will call her back”
“Never mind, I will take the call” – David tried to take the phone from Emma’s hands, but she did not let him so she answered it.
“Hello, Mrs. This is Emma, David’s girlfriend. He is driving right now, so he could not take the call” – Emma tried to sound polite.
“Okay, I see. You play a big role in his life. Now because of you, I can’t even talk to him.” – David’ mother replied ironically.
“Is there something wrong?” – Emma was confused.
“No, sweetie, not at all! Please tell David to call me as soon as possible” – she hung up.
“What was that?” – Emma was even more confused.
“Well, that is the thing why I am quite and why I don’t tell you anything! - David was a bit ashamed.
The situation in the car was much wired after Emma finished the conversation on the phone with David’s mother. She was confused, because she has not even met that woman and she was behaving like that for no reason. At least, she thought there was no reason for that. On the other hand, David was feeling more responsible for the situation. Well, in fact, that was not his fault, but at least he could explain everything to Emma.
“Is this the reason for your sudden mood change?” – Emma asked David.
“Yes” – David bent his hand down. He was feeling miserable.
“Is there even any reason for that? Can you explain me please? I have been thinking about this for hours and I still can’t come up with a reasonable idea for all of this?” – Emma tried to look calm, but in fact she was very angry in the inside.
David stopped the car and they went out. They were like in the middle of nowhere. There was only a filed and a few trees. Only the sound of the bird could he heard in the distance.
“Look, Emma, my mother and I are not that close. We visit each other a few times in the year, a few calls for the holidays and that is all. She is a nice woman although sometimes she can be really bad –tempered. I have not told her about us”
“Why? Are you afraid of something? Do you think that she might not like me?
“No, you are so adorable. There is no way someone can say a bad word about you, it is just that…” – David was very worried and he could not continue talking.
“What David? Please tell me I can’t keep guessing anymore.”
“Well, she saw a photo of us in the magazines and she is assured that you are a bad person just because of the Harry Potter movie. There was an aunt of mine who was really into magic and witchcraft. She loathed my mother and one day some of my mother’s favorite stuff disappeared like her favorite jewelry, her favorite wooden decoration in the living room and some other things. So, she googled your name and she found out about your role in the movie” – David could not look Emma in the eyes.
“Oh, God! That is ridiculous!” – Emma was mad.
“I know it really sounds insane, but that is just who she is. Don’t worry, I will talk to her.”
“Well, I have a better Idea!” – Emma had a suggestion.
“What?” – David asked.
“Why don’t I go to talk to her? I can explain everything. We can also get to know better! What do you think?” – Emma asked David.
“I don’t know. I don’t want you to be disappointed.” – David was skeptical.
“I will call her” – Emma was excited.
“No, I will call her” – David dialed the number.
“Hey, mom. It’s me. I was wondering if you are free tonight so that we can meet. I am with Emma now so it can be a chance for you to meet?”
“Sorry, David, I do not need another witch in my home” – David’s mother was determinate.
“But, mom, she is my girlfriend. Just a cup of coffee. You will realize that you are wrong.”- David tried to convince her.
Emma took the phone from David’s hands. “Hi, Mrs. Simmons! I think I deserve a chance at least to explain, don’t you think so? Please do this, not for me, but for your son!” – Emma tried to sound convincingly.
“See you in one hour” – Mrs. Simmons ended the call
It was very tense in the car on the way to the house of David’s mother. Emma was anxious because she wanted to leave a great impression in order to chance David’s mother’s mind. She really wanted to make this thing work. They have had enough troubles, so they did not need one more on the list. Emma took some make up products from her bag and tried to look better for David’s mother.
On the other hand, David tried not to show how worried he was because of this situation. He wanted to look calm from the inside so that he will not make Emma even more anxious.
They were driving in silence, so while she was doing her makeup, Emma decided to break the silence.
“What are your mother’s favorite flowers?”
“Well, I do not know. I have never bought flowers for her in my life. I told you we are not that close. Don’t worry” – David’s answer surprised Emma.
“Please stop near a store. I want to buy something for her. Maybe roses and a box of chocolates. I mean we meet for the first time. I think it would be rude if I don’t give her anything on our first meeting.”
“Come on, sweetie. I know that you are upset right now, but you are so perfect just the way you are. The most important thing is that I love you and I would do anything to make you happy” – David tried to sound lovely.
“Okay, then, I believe you. So, it means that you will stop near the closest store, because you said you would do anything for me, would not you?”
“Oh, damn it! Fine, I will” – David laughed.
After they have bought some flowers and a box of chocolates, they were ready for the visit. Emma rang on the doorbell and after a few seconds a woman appeared at the door. She looked a lot like David. To Emma’s surprise, the woman was not alone. There was a man next to her.
“Good evening Mrs. Simmons! I am Emma. Nice to meet you” – both women shook hands.
“Hi, mom! Hi, dad! – David greeted them.
David’s mother avoided Emma and did not say anything to her, not even welcome. She went straight to David.
“Here you are. Nice to see you my sweetie. We missed you!
David’s father felt a bit uncomfortable because of this gesture so he tried to be polite with Emma.
“Come in, Emma! I am David’s father, nice to meet you!
“Thanks Mr. Simmons” – They all entered in the house.
After they sat on the sofa, David’s mother offered them with some coffee. After the usual conversation about the weather and the news on TV, David’s mother started the topic.
“So, David told me that you are into the witch things, or whatever they call it. I must admit, I loathe that! So, consequently, if you are part of it, I think that I am clear” – she sounded ironic.
“I am sorry to disappoint you, madam, but I am not a witch. I pretend that I am a witch in the movies. That means I am an actress. I understand that you must be upset because of some unpleasant things in the past, but I am nothing like that. I just play a role in a movie. That is not who I am. I hope you understand.” – Emma tried to be clear and polite in her explanation.
At that moment, her phone rang. Mrs. Simmons went to the kitchen and she was lucky that the phone interrupted the conversation because she was not sure what to reply.
“Hi, mom! What’s up?” – Emma answered the call.
“Hi sweetie! Where are you? Your agent is with me in the car” – It was Mrs. Watson.
“Mom, I am busy right now. Talk to you later! – Emma tried to finish the conversation.
“No, give me the address. I will come to pick you up.” – She insisted.
“No, mom. I am with David.”
“Oh, let’s all have a coffee somewhere. Was David’s car blue? I think I am looking at it right now. Your agent and I went to the mall here nearby. I think we are in the same neighborhood. Whose is this house?” – Mrs. Watson could not believe the coincidence.
“Mom, please stay there. This is David’s parents’ home. I will come out now! – Emma was very nervous.
“Don’t worry, sweetie. I will come in. And I will meet his parents so we all can have a cup of coffee. See you!” – Mrs. Watson hung up and went towards the front door.
Emma hung up and looked straight at David. From the glare in her look he realized that something was wrong.
“Sweetie, I need to talk to you. – Emma tried to sound like everything has been just fine.
“Now? Can’t it wait?” – David was surprised, especially knowing that Emma wanted to leave a positive impression in front of David’s mother.
“Right now! It can’t wait! It is in front of the door! – Emma was nervous now because David did not want to support her.
“Is there someone or something in front of my door? Oh, I knew it. This young lady is into magic, witchcraft and that kind of stuff. In fact, I can’t wait to see what this is now.”
David’s mother went straight to the front door. David looked at Emma and he was very confused. He did not know what to do. On the one hand, there was Emma and on the other hand was his mother who was acting like a traditional future mother in law. Moreover, there is someone else in front of the door about which Emma is panicking and David’s mother was curious about. It seemed like there is no end to this misery.
“Emma, what is going on?”
“You will see in a second” – Emma seemed disappointed.
Meanwhile, a truncheon as taken by Mrs. Simmons. She was afraid that something strange and unusual might appear in front of her because she was convinced that Emma was an evil person. Unfortunately, Emma and David were arguing in the room and they did not even notice what Mrs. Simmons was having with her.
On the other side of the door, Mrs. Watson was putting some lipstick on her lips and some blush on her chicks because she wanted to look good in front of David’s parents. She had no idea was about to happen.
When the door opened Mrs. Watson had a huge smile on her face. Mrs. Simmons did not even look who was that she just hit her with the truncheon without even saying a word.
At that moment Emma and David arrived and Emma started screaming because she could not believe that her mother is being hit by her probably future mother in law.
“Oh, I can’t believe this! – Emma was out of breath.
“Mom, stop it! That is Emma’s mother! – David was embarrassed.
“What, but how did she appear here? Is this because of your girlfriend’s magic? What is she even doing here? That is the last thing I need right now. - Another witch in my house.” – Mrs. Simmons seemed to have a lot of more questions about Emma and her family.
“Mom, stop it. You are embarrassing me! Call an ambulance. You may have hurt her. Emma is not feeling well too!”
“I heard someone saying an ambulance. What happened? I will call one, but what happened?” – Mr. Simmons arrived after a few minutes and he had no idea what had been going on.
“Dad, Emma’s mother has been injured by mom and all she wanted was to meet you, so I guess mom was not really worried to leave a good impression in front of Emma and her mother compared to Emma who has a kind soul and she only wanted you to like her…. and of course, not to hit her family with a truncheon. Where the hell did you get it from?”
The ambulance had arrived and took Emma and her mother to the nearest hospital.
“David, call my dad. He must be worried”
“Don’t worry, I will call him. Are you okay? – David was the one now who was worried.
“Yes, I am” – Emma closed her eyes.
David went with them to the hospital. While he was there he could not stop wondering how all of this mess will be solved.
. Soon after the accident, they arrived at the hospital. It was nothing complicated, just some bruises and the doctor advised to take a rest and prescribed them some herbal cream. David was glad that it was not something more serious. However, he felt so embarrassed that he could not look at Emma and also her mother.
“David, please call my father… He should have been here until now.”
“Yes, I am worried. We do not need another drama for tonight. I think we had enough for today! “– This was like a slap in David’s face.
“Mrs. Watson, I feel terrible. If there is anything else I could do, please let me know” – David tried to be polite and to apologize for his mother’s acts.
“As long as I and my daughter are far away from the violence of your family, I would be happy. Who knows, maybe you are just like your mother! My poor daughter! Have you beaten her sometimes?”
“Mom, please stop! You are exaggerating!
“No, Mrs. Watson! I am unable to hit a woman! That is a crime for God’s sake! I love her, there is no way I could be violent when it comes to Emma, please believe me!” – David was desperate.
“Only when it comes to Emma? That means that you can be violent to me, just like your mother!” – Mrs. Watson tried to make the situation look even worse than it actually is.
At that very moment, Emma’s father arrived and that was like a salvation for David from this unpleasant conversation.
“Are you okay? I am not sure if I had understood well. David’s mother did this to you?” – There was it not a salvation, but like putting fuel to the fire.
“Dad, we will talk about his later.” – Emma tried to put an end of this drama. Her parents went downstairs in the hall of the hospital and Emma stayed with David.
“Honey, I love you! I am sorry, I know that you have been trying to make an impression, but it does not matter, I love you and I just want to be with you! Please don’t be angry at me!”
“David, it is okay. I love you too! I won’t let this ‘parent’s mess’ to affect me or our love. I have to go now. I see you tomorrow! – Emma had kissed David and left.
David returned home. He was angry at his parents and he wanted to make them fix all of this because he considered that was their fault. He dialed his mother’s number. The machine answered, so he had to leave a message.
“Mom, I hope you are happy and satisfied with the role of an evil future mother in law. Anyway, I love her and I do not care if she is just a witch to you or some other thing. Be ready tomorrow at 8 o’clock. I am picking you up and we are going to Emma’s house so that you will apologize to all of them”
David hated being home alone at this time of the night. It was the hundred time that he was feeling miserable and desperate in this room because of some lousy mistakes. He dialed Emma’s number. She was not available on the phone so he also left her a message!
“Hey! Just to let you know that I am coming to your house tomorrow with my mom to apologize. I am sick and tired of this! I think we deserve something better. Will discuss the details tomorrow. Love you and sweet dreams!” – He hung up.
“No more excuses mom, I told you how important is she for me. Please, make this for me, not for them. I really think you owe me a favor.” – David was talking on the phone with his mother while he was looking for his keys.
“David, you know I love you, you are my only child and you know I would do anything just to make you happy. That is why, I don’t want to go there! I am not sure if I will be able to be near those women again. I think it may become even worse than it actually is!” - David’s mother insisted on not going.
“Mom, Emma is really upset and I want her to feel comfortable around you. This really affects my relationship with her. She really tried to impress you. Now is your turn to do something about that!” – David was also persistent.
“Fine! If you are not here in an hour, I am not coming”- Mrs. Simmons tried to sound serious.
“I am on my way!”
David bought some flowers and also a box of chocolates as a sign of a good will. The Simmons’s family was there in front of the door of The Watson family. David was feeling as he was watching a horror movie scene because of the adrenaline rush. He really wanted this to work because of Emma.
He knocked on the door waiting for someone to open it. Luckily, that person was Emma.
“Hello, what a surprise!” – The shock could be noticed on her face. She did not expect this. She remembered the message David left on the machine. However, this was not something she thought of.
David’s parents did not say anything.
“Please, come in! I was just preparing breakfast. I would be delighted if you want to join us. There is some coffee too!” – Emma was excited because of this visit and the anxiety and the excitement could be noticed. David mother decided to give this thing a fresh start so that David can be happy and feel comfortable again.
“It smells delicious darling! What is that? It smells like pancakes. I would like some with jam and a cup of coffee!” – She looked at her husband but he did not react at all.
“A cup of coffee for Harry too!”
“Right away Mrs. Simmons! Please have a sit here on the dining table.” – Emma wanted to leave a good first impression for the second time.
“Is your mother home, Emma? I brought her some flowers and chocolates. I wanted to apologize for the inconvenience the last time. You know, David probably told you about my past experiences, so you know, I have my own reasons. Anyway, I would be glad if she could accept my apology so that you two can be happy again!” – Mrs. Simmons tried to sound nice.
“No worried, Mrs. Simmons! She is resting upstairs, you know, the doctor told her to. I will let her know that you were here.” – Emma brought the cups of coffee and some jam and pancakes.
“No need to tell me anything Emma! It sounds to me that I have heard this before, but I cannot remember where. Probably, from some other liar too!” – That was the voice full of irony of Mrs. Watson. She was going down the stairs.
“Mom, stop it! Can’t you be nice this time? Do that for me and also for my love for David!” – Emma could anticipate a disaster approaching.
“So, what now? I should probably be impressed with the flowers and these chocolates and pretend that I like you? That would make me a hypocrite. After the incident you come to my house without even letting me know and now you expect me to believe you and pretend like nothing happened.” After a few moments, Mrs. Watson continued her monologue. “Oh, there is even a coffee for you! I guess that is a much better way to welcome someone in your home than kicking with a truncheon.”
“This was enough. I am here to apologize and you treat me like this? This is unbelievable. I am here because of David because I want to see him happy, but I will not tolerate this humiliation anymore!” – Mrs. Simmons wanted to leave.
“It was time! There is the front door” – Mrs. Watson showed towards the front door.
At that moment, both of the mothers were yelling and shouting. It was a mess.
“Come on Emma, let’s go! We deserve to be happy!” – Emma and David left the house while their mothers were still arguing inside.
“Honey, is everything okay? You have been staring outside the window for quite some time. What have you been thinking about?” – David asked Emma.
“Nothing. Just daydreaming! This has been the worst scenario ever.” – Luckily, this all was part of Emma’s daydreaming of the meeting of the two families.
“Mom, it is almost 11 o’clock! Is everything ready? David’s parents will be here any minute” –Emma was putting some make up, while her mother was in the kitchen.
“Yes, it is! Do not worry! I’ve got everything under control over here. You just need to get ready and look gorgeous as always that’s all!” – Emma’s mother tried to sound excited, but in fact, that was just a small scam so that Emma does not figure out that her favorite apple pie that was supposed to be served with some coffee for David’s parents was burned in the oven.
“Okay, thanks mom, you are the best! I am putting my earrings now and I will be back in a minute to help you in the kitchen. You must be really tired doing all the work.”
“No, do not worry. I am about to finish now.” – Emma’s mother was just gazing in the burned pie trying to figure out what do to next. Emma would be very disappointed if she found out that her mother failed her on this day. What is more, David’s parents will be there any minute.
Emma heard the bell ringing and went downstairs immediately. She looked in the mirror just to check her hair and makeup again before she opens the door. After taking a deep breath, she finally opened the door. There were they – David, Mrs. Simmons and Mr. Simmons.
“Hi and welcome! I am Emma, nice to meet you all” – Emma had a smile on her face and tried to sound as sweet and nice as possible.
“Hi, Emma! The pleasure is ours. I am David’s mother. This is David’s father. We are so glad you invited us in your home. It is such a thrill to be invited by a famous star and what is more - that star is your son’s girlfriend” – She laughed in order to break the tension which appears as a result of the first meeting with someone.
“This is for you Emma. David told us you really liked apple pie so I made one for you. This is a traditional family recipe. I hope I will have the chance to teach you as well!
“It would be a pleasure Mrs. Simmons. My mother also made one so you will have the chance to taste it as well.”
At that moment, Emma’s mother felt relieved because Mrs. Simmons saved the day with her pie.
“No, there is no need, Emma. I would enjoy to have a piece of that traditional apple pie you were talking” – she laughed and continued “I am Emma’s mother. It is a pleasure to have you here Mrs. Simmons. David is like a son to me and my husband. Please, come in, he is waiting for you!
There were they all sitting around the table in the dining room with a cup of coffee and a delicious pie. Both of the families did not feel comfortable to start any topic for conversation and it was a bit odd. So, after a few minutes, Mrs. Watson decided to break the silence.
“We are so glad to have you here and to finally meet you, although, I am a bit curious. Is there any other reason for your visit, Mrs. and Mr. Simmons?”
At that particular moment Mrs. Rush felt like she was not prepared for the answer so in order to provide herself with some more time she took a sip from the coffee that was pretty hot that she could feel her tongue burning. Her husband, Mr. James looked really indifferent like he was forced to come here and look for some answers that obviously were too unpleasant for him. He also sensed that this situation will be both awkward and tense, so he decided to have a slice of the pie brought by his wife.
While Rush was taking the sip of coffee and her husband was eating the slice of pie, Emma’s parents Andrew and Cindy were staring at them and expecting some answer to Cindy’s question. On the other hand, David and Emma were feeling really uncomfortable. Emma gave David “that look” that something bad was about to happen. David realized that it was time to say something so that this whole situation would be at least not that awkward.
“No, there is no need to be so curious Mrs. Watson. This is just a simple visit so that the two families can meet and spend some lovely time. Since me and Emma are so in love, we thought that it would be a nice idea for our parents to meet and enjoy some time together and even more become really close friends…” – David was talking really fast that everyone in the room felt that someone needed break the ice and explain why David’s parents were there.
“Son, do not worry! We are all reasonable ad well behaved people. I am sure that Emma’s parents will understand our urge to come here and learn more about her role in the Harry Potter movies as a witch. In fact, I understand that as a mother Mrs. Watson will also understand my concerns …” Mrs. Simmons took the coffee from the table and had another sip. It seemed that she used the coffee in order to handle this situation.
On the other side of the table Emma did the same thing with the coffee, hoping that she would be as calm as Rush. Emma though about her dream from the previous night and all of his was like a ‘dĂ©jĂ vu’ for her. When she thought of the end of her dream she became really anxious and deep in her heart she prayed for a better outcome this time.
“Well, Mrs. Simmons, or may I call you just Rush as we already see David as our son and we do not have any prejudices or judgements for the person that our daughter choose.” – Mrs. Watson also took a sip of her coffee too. Somehow it became a habit for all the people in the room.
“I am sure that my wife would react the same way as you Mrs. Simmons. It is a natural instinct when it comes to our children. But, that is just a role, it is not who Emma really is. That is something she does when she is an actress, that is not who she is in her personal life. I think this is a reasonable explanation and a clear one” – Emma’s father, Andrew showed more courtesy towards the guests.
“I am not so sure... I guess we will need some more time to figure this out as we only want the best for David.
On the other side of the table, Emma was quite. She was feeling like this was an examination that should determine her destiny. She also felt betrayed as David did not let her know out the real reason hiding behind this visit. If only he was honest…
David noticed the worried look of Emma in her eyes and at that moment he could understand what was going through her mind.
“She might feel disappointed, or maybe guilty or betrayed or maybe just shocked.” – David kept wondering how Emma felt and how he can save her from this misery. He loved her more than anything, so that is why he decided to keep this “little talk” as a secret in order not to make her even more anxious than she is now. But, he was probably wrong.
Right next to David were his parents Rush and James. James was a quiet man who seemed like he did not care about Emma being a witch in a movie. It also seemed that if Emma was a witch in her real life, he would not even care. He was always on David’s side and if David thinks she is the one there is nothing left for James but to agree with him. He was eating the third piece of apple pie and was about to finish his coffee.
Right next to him was his wife Rush. She was a really protective mother and was really upset about the “witch situation”. She considered Emma as a woman who wants to seduce David and take advantage of him. She was almost convinced that Emma agreed on this role in the movie because she was really into those magic and witchcraft things, so that makes her the perfect actress for the role. From her facial expression, it could be noticed that she is a bit annoyed that she does not receive the support from her husband but she decides to try to hide it.
On the other side of the table were Mrs. and Mr. Watson. Cindy was frustrated by the fact that this woman had the courage to come to their house and sort of insult her daughter. She was also protective and she did not even think about agreeing or at least compromise with this lady. On the other hand, Andrew was calmer or at least he looked like he was. He tried to use his faked calmed look in order to convince Rush that she was wrong and that her thoughts are not true. He could somehow understand his irrational worries. However, Emma was his daughter and there was no way for Andrew to accept some of Rush’s irrational fears.
At the end of the table, there was the mega star – Emma. In his case, he was not nothing like a mega star. She seemed like a little scared child who was waiting for her mother to decide what type of punishment she deserves. She did not say anything. She was just about to burst out of tears. She was feeling betrayed and disappointed. This was just like a trial for her for a crime she did not commit, but the conviction was about to be said.
“I will say that I understand you Mrs. Simmons because it is expected of me to say it, but I don’t. However, I must say that I am stunned by your bravery and lack of courtesy. You came into my house to judge my daughter in front of me and my husband. I mean this is unbelievable! Anyway, at least David could mention something to us before your arrival. We considered him as part of the family…”
“Are you trying to say something to me Mrs. Watson? If there is something you would -like to tell me, please say it directly!”
“There is no need for me to say anything! I think you all received the message!” – The ironic voice of Mr. Watson.
“David, James, I think we should leave! “ – The Simmons family left.
Emma thought that the burned apple pie will be the only disaster, but it seemed like there was something more spectacular for that day and that was the judgement from Rush and David hiding things again from her.
As soon as the Simmons family left, Emma burst out in tears. She felt hopeless and she did not even have strengths to continue fighting for her relationship and explaining to everyone who she really was.
“Honey, if this is some comfort, she does not deserve your respect and courtesy” – Cindy tried to comfort Emma but Emma was not really into Rush, she was heartbroken because of David. He should have told her why they decided to visit and she was really looking forward to this meeting with his parents. If she had known their intention, she would have been better prepared for the ‘trial’. Emma did not say a word. She just went upstairs and refused to talk to anyone.
“Are you asleep? Need to talk to you ASAP” – That was the message on her phone from David. She really had no intention to go through this over again. Instead, she turned off the phone, took a pill and went to bed in order to get a good night's sleep and pretend that nothing bad happened today.
On the other side of the town, David was all alone with his mobile phone in his hands waiting for Emma to reply. He was just looking at the time. It was getting late and there was still no reply from Emma.
After a few hours waiting by the phone he felt asleep. At that moment, the phone rang. He woke up immediately hoping it was Emma, but it was his mother.
“Hi, mom”
“Son, I am sorry. We did not have a chance to talk. Your father and I were in a huge fight and now he fell asleep. I am worried about you. I do not want this to mess the relation between us. I understand Emma’s parents’ reaction. I might have done the same if I was in that situation. I maybe have crossed the line, but you know me, I am so against the magic and paranormal things. That is against my belief and my religion. I mean I have the right to ask at least.” – Rush realized she was talking too long and that David might not listen to her.
“Sorry honey, are you still there?”
“Yes, mom! And here is how we are going to solve this! I am going to prove you are wrong and you are going to apologize to Emma and to her family and bake one more apple pie as a sign of conciliation. Ok?” – It seemed like David had a plan.
“But how is that possible honey?” – Rush asked.
“It is very simple. I will be there tomorrow at 10. See you tomorrow” – David hung up.
He went downstairs to look for the magazines of interviews with Emma and the whole Harry Potter experience. He had read all of them and he remembered that there was one where she clearly explains that it is just a role in a movie and that there are no similar events in her life like the ones in the films. After hours and hours of looking, he finally managed to find it.
The next morning, he went to her mother’s home.
“Hi, David! Welcome! – She was surprised that David came so early.
“Mom, start baking an apple pie because Emma is nothing like you think and here is the proof. “- He threw the magazine on the table.
Rush and James immediately took the magazine and started reading it. Rush read it over and over again and she was blushing because she realized she was wrong.
“I am going to start to bake the pie. David, please call Emma and ask if we are welcomed to come one more time”
“Hello, honey! Are you home? I need to talk to your parents” – David sounded really excited on the phone.
“I am still in bed David I do not know where they are.”
“Can you check it up please?” – David insisted on Emma finding her parents.
“I don’t know where they are I really do not hear any noises from the other rooms. Anyway, I do not think this is a good idea after the previous time.” – Emma sounded really disappointed on the phone.
“Honey, listen, my mother wants to apologize to you, to all of you including your parents. Can we please come?” – David was afraid that Emma will refuse this offer.
“David, please, there is no need to do this just for me. It is okay, I understand her and it is okay. Not everyone needs to agree or to understand the beliefs of the others. I just really wanted your parents to like me. But, it is just fine to leave things like they are now.”
“My mother is baking a pie right now. Do you know what does that mean?”
Emma was a bit confused. “What are you saying David?”
“My mother only bakes an apple pie when there is a special occasion in the family, for a holiday or for people who she wants to like her. Do you understand it now?”
“You mean, you are really coming her with your family for the second time in order to receive a new start?” – Emma was finally excited and she managed to understand what David was really trying to tell her.
“Yes, we are coming in half an hour.” – David hung up and went straight to tell her mother that they are welcomed again for the second time.
Emma called her mother and informed her about the visit. Her mother was not really excited because of the visit because she was afraid that there would be no progress in understanding each other’s beliefs and thoughts. On the other side, Emma’s father was relieved because he was hoping that this situation will at least make Emma happier and solve the problem between her and David. He was assured that David was the one for her and that she is in love with him because she has never introduced a man to him and his wife before as her boyfriend. He was glad that there was a way that can function so that they can be back together.
While Emma was on the phone with her mother talking for the upcoming event, Andrew just took the mobile out of her hand and just said “It is okay honey, there is no need for a debate – yes they can come and they are always welcomed in our house. How great a man is can be noticed by his ability to forgive a person and forget.
After a few hours, the Simmons family was in front of the door. Emma opened it and pretended like nothing has happened. There were also her mother and her father. They introduced themselves like it was their first time. After a while, they had a pleasant conversation with a cup of coffee and a piece of a delicious pie. Rush and James apologized once again and Cindy and Andrew accepted their apologies.
During their conversation, Emma’s phone rang. It was a friend of her who worked for a very famous local newspaper. She called Emma to ask her if she wanted to hang out. Emma went to the other room because it was quite noisy in the living room.
“Hey, Emily! What’s up?”
“Hey, Emma! I just wanted to ask you if you want to come over for a chat and a drink.”
“Sorry, Emily, David’s parents are here. Maybe next time” – Emma did not want to let Emily know about the misunderstanding between the families.
Meanwhile, David entered the room. He thought that Emma was on the phone with her manager. He did not like Emma’s manager so he immediately said “Oh, here is the mister, wanting to know about the ‘family mess’ – really clingy.”
Emma tried to cover the phone so that Emily could not hear the latest gossip in order not to write an article about it. “Okay, Emily, see you soon, bye”!
Emma hung up the phone. “Daviddd! I just hope that this will not come up in the newspaper tomorrow or you are a dead man”.
The next morning Emma woke up finally next to David. It was a promising morning that the day will be better and relaxed compared to the previous ones. David was still sleeping so Emma had finally the chance to look at his eyes and his face without fear and doubts. On his face, she could see the calmness that he was feeling after the ‘family mess’ was solved. He was breathing peacefully in a calm rhythm until Emma mildly touched his face without an intention to wake him, but, obviously, David was not used to this, so he woke up.
“What is wrong? Are you okay?” – He was rubbing his eyes, trying to figure out if something was happening.
“Good morning, honey! Relax; this is one of those perfect mornings we both dreamt about since all of this drama began. I love the calmness we both feel now and I really want to be with just you and no one else. I just really need some cuddle with you in order to reconnect with you. I guess this would be something we both are not used to” – She giggled.
“Well, if we could survive the media, the parents, the judgements, the stereotypes, blah, blah, I guess we could get used to some peace and quiet. It will not be that hard, I suppose” – with a smile on his face he kissed Emma and they stayed in bed for some time. This peacefully morning was just like a reward for them for everything they have been through.
Emma went downstairs and prepared a delicious breakfast which included pancakes with strawberry jam and two cups of coffee, sugar –free. After the shower, David also joined her and they sat quietly in the dining area.
While they were having breakfast, someone knocked on the door. Emma had a feeling that it would be some bad news that will ruin her perfect morning.
“David, do not open it! I do not expect anyone, so there is no need to pay attention to something that will disturb us. I should buy a sign that says “DO NOT DISTURB” when for days like these.”
“But, aren’t you curious? I will open it and I will not tell you who it was, don’t worry! – David tried to sound funny, but it was not funny for Emma at all because she still had that sense that something will be terribly wrong if he opens the door.
Despite Emma’s words, David decided to open the door. She heard some voices, but she refused to think that it was some bad news. After a minute David was back. She was looking straight at his eyes, expecting him to say something. But instead saying something he just kissed her on her forehead.
“Don’t worry! It was the boy that delivers newspapers. I don’t have the wallet with me; do you have some money somewhere here?”
Emma took some banknotes from her pocket and gave it to David.
“I will be right back” – David went to give some money to the boy. When he was closing the door he heard Emma screaming room he other room.
“DAVIDDDDD, IT’S OVER!
He went back all panicked.
“What is wrong?” – David stuttered, trying to pull the words out because he was not ready for a new drama, especially after realizing how wonderful the peaceful mornings are.
“WE ARE ON THE COVER!” – Emma was still yelling.
David hands were shaking, but he took the newspapers and read the headline.
“Emma’s trouble with her future in – laws” and there was a photo of all of them sitting in the living room with angry faces and Emma wiping off her tears with her hands.
While both of them were sitting in the dining room, Emma’s manager was calling, but she decided to decline the call and thy both were sitting in silence for some time.
This silence lasted for so long that it actually became uncomfortable because both of them were sitting still there. Emma was crying and David did not know how to console her because he had no idea how this can be solved. He had never been involved in a situation like this before with media, press and so on. On the other hand, Emma was having a really hard time and he did not know how to help her. This is not the first time for her to be gossiped or to be on a cover on some magazine, so called “the yellow press”. In fact, sometimes all of these gossips have helped her to become more popular in some situations, but I was nothing like this. She really hated when her family was involved in the media. Now it was even worse because she barely managed to solve the problem with David’s parents and now the whole drama is on a cover page of a magazine. She was even worried how they are going to react this time.
David decided to break the silence. “I am so sorry. You know me, I always do something without thinking of the consequences” David was struggling to find the right words, but somehow he did not know what to say in order to make things better. In fact, with every word he only made it worse.
“Enough, David! When you are dating a celebrity you must be aware of the consequences. That is the number one rule in the world of the show business. It is okay when they write about something else, but not about my family”. Emma took her phone and dialed the number of her manager. While speaking with him she went to the kitchen to make a cup of coffee for her. David felt like a total idiot because with this act Emma wanted to show him that there is someone else who can solve this and that David could do nothing about it. David understood what Emma wanted to tell him without even using words and he was feeling like an idiot.
After Emma finished her conversation with her manager Mike she returned to the dining room. “He says I must not say anything now to the media. It would be better if I go for a coffee or to the mall with your mother and my mother. The paparazzi will take photos of us so it would seem like it is just a lie about the family mess.”
“I am not sure if my mother will agree. She is not that type of going in cafes or shopping in the mall.” David was rumbling because he did not know how this will turn out at the end.
Emma was a bit arrogant now. “I think that is something at least she can do for me after the whole drama. In fact, everything happened because of you and her idea about the witchcraft. Mike will be here in an hour. I will work with him on my reputation and about the premiere of the film this month. I think I have had enough family drama. I will call you later.”
Emma went upstairs and David was still sitting in the dining room feeling like an idiot. After 15 minutes, he realized that Emma was not going to come downstairs, so he left home. He called his mother to let her know about the media issue and the solution to it. She was not really thrilled about it, but David convinced her somehow.
Meanwhile, Emma was with her manager Mike in her house. After analyzing the idea of Emma going out with the two mothers, after talking about the premiere of the movie and about her reputation in Hollywood, it was time for a glass of wine.
“I hate to be the one that gives you some advice about your love life, but this David has caused you a lot of troubles. In fact, when it comes to the media, you have become more popular and present in the media, then before – which is a thing” – they both laughed and Mike continued, “but I am not sure if you are happy with him.” – A few glasses of wine have loosened his tongue.
“Don’t worry, I am happy with him it is just complicated. There are some circumstances that cannot be omitted or avoided. These troubles are beyond our control. When it comes only to David, I must say that he is different than the other men I have dated. He just” Emma made a pause, “just do not know how to handle some situations and sometimes he is afraid when he feels there is no way you know…” Emma took another sip of her wine.
“That is what I am saying” – Mike’s voice was with a lower pitch this time and his words sounded a bit seductive.
“What do you mean? Emma was confused because Mike was touching her hair now and he was closer to her face.
“You need someone who can deal with the media, with your popularity and stuff like that, not someone who cannot convince his mother that you are not a witch” Mike was even closer right now just a few inches of Emma’ lips and in that moment Emma’s phone rang. It was David.
Emma was confused because she did not know how to react. Mike has been her manager since the beginning of her career and he had never shown her that he was seeing her as a woman, but only as a business. On the other hand, she admitted to herself that this act of Mike’s felt good to her because it was really nice and pleasant to know that another man was attracted to you. Emma has had millions of fans and she was aware that they have been attracted to her, especially the male population. Anyway, this time was different because her audience is mostly attracted by Emma – the actress, not by Emma – a simple woman just like any other out there.
She refused to be overwhelmed by Mike’s behavior and decided to avoid him, so she answered the phone. It felt like the right thing to do at that moment.
“Hey, honey, what’s up?” – Even though David and she had a huge fight she decided to act like everything was okay between them so that she does not give hope to Mike that there could be something between them. Anyways, he is her manager so it is not a good idea to mix love and work.
David sounded surprised on the phone because he did not expect such cheer in Emma’s voice. Anyway, he decided to follow her and also pretend like nothing happened.
“Hey, honey! I was wondering if you could manage to find a solution with your manager. Should I inform my mother about your date?”
“Hmm, well, yes, tomorrow at 10 in the morning. I will also let my mother know. It will be not a big deal, just going in some stores and into a coffee shop. After the paparazzi take so photos she will be free to go. So, it would probably take a few hours, no more than that.”
“Great, baby! I am happy for you! It will be all set, don’t worry!” – David tried to sound optimistic. - “I love you”
Emma did not know what to say because Mike was still there. “I have to go now. Bye!”
It was uncomfortable in the room after Emma hung up on the phone. Both of them were quiet.
“I guess, I should leave now. The press is calling me non-stop, but I will not answer it. They will receive the answer tomorrow from the photos, I suppose.” – Mike was putting his jacket on.
“Yes, I hope so.”- Emma replied.
“Please report how it went, okay?”
“Yes, I will. Take care!” – Emma closed the door.
The next morning Rush was looking pretty amazing. She was excited because she knew he would be in the magazine, although he did not want to show it off in front of Emma and Cindy. They were waiting for her in their car near the mall. After 10 past 10 Rush were there. She got in Emma’s car and they agreed how they are going to behave in the mall. Smiles, hugs and conversation between the three women were part of the agreement.
In the next 2 hours, the three of them were trying me outfits, smiling and talking to each other with a smile on their faces. After that, they went into a coffee shop and had a coffee and a piece of cake. The paparazzi were there all the time, but they pretended like there was no one around them.
While they were having coffee, they tried to discuss about the media and about what will be there in the magazines tomorrow. When the paparazzi left, they felt relieved.
“I don’t know why all of this was necessary? They should not do that. They interrupt your privacy all the time! It is like hell!” – Rush started complaining even though she was flattered by the attention of the paparazzi.
“It is part of my job.” – Emma tried to sound as she was not irritated by this comment. It was Rush’s fault anyway. Well, and David’s too!
“I understand the witchcraft problem, but this is more than that. I don’t know how David would deal with all of this. I am exhausted; I can only imagine how he must have been feeling all this time.” –Rush was only putting more oil to the fire.
Cindy was trying to stay calm because she did not want to cause one more media mess to Emma even though she was furious on the inside.
Emma just wanted to escape so she texted Mike “I am at the mall. Pick me up! This is hell!
Rush continued with her monologue about Emma and her career and the pressure of the media. Mike arrived in 20 minutes, so Emma paid the bill and said to them that she is meeting a friend in order to avoid Rush’s comments. She was hurrying towards the back exit of the mall so that she can leave without attracting any attention of her fans and the paparazzi. Unfortunately for her, Rush went to the bathroom and after that went out on the terrace to have a cigarette. Then, she noticed Emma entering the black car and also saw the man.
“This is terrible. I will call David right now!” – Rush started dialing David’s number.
Rush took her phone and dialed David’s number. She was feeling confused because she had never seen this man before and he is not definitely a friend of David. At that very moment she regretted calling David because she did not know what to tell him exactly. She saw Emma entering the car of another man when previously she had said that she is visiting a friend. On the one hand, maybe the unknown man is the friend that she wanted to visit. In that case, Emma did not lie to them. Or maybe, he was just giving her a lift to the friend’s house. The worse variant will be that that man is having an affair with her so she lied to them and left with that man. These scenarios were running through her head and she was convincing herself that the last scenario is not the real one. She was getting anxious, so she had another cigarette. David did not answer the phone, so Rush had a little more time to think how she is going to explain this situation to David. Rush got back and she and Cindy left the mall and went home.
Rush decided not to tell anything to Cindy because she was Emma’s mother and she would defend her no matter what Rush saw. She may call her daughter and let her know that Rush was aware that Emma may be hiding something from David, so the situation will become more complicated. She wanted only the best for her son, so decided to call him.
“Hey mom, what’s up? How was the date with Emma and her mother”? – David was thrilled and hoping that everything went well.
“Everything was good, don’t worry. I wanted to call you earlier, but I assumed that Emma have already told you how the date went.” – Rush wanted to see if Emma had at least called David.
“No, her phone is turned off. She must have run out of battery.” – At that moment, Rush decided that there was no other way than to tell David what happened.
“She said that she was going to meet a friend, but I am no sure which one because I saw her leaving with a man in his car.” – Rush tried to sound calm as everything was okay in order to see how David was going to react.
“Are you sure mom? She did not tell me anything about going somewhere after the mall?” – David sounded worried.
“Yes, I am. I saw them”- Rush was decisive.
“I’ll call you back mom.” – David hung up. Someone was at the door. It was Emma, but David was not really happy to see her.
“Come on in” – he did not even hug her.
“Is there a problem? I have never seen you like this before.” – Emma took off her coat and sat on the sofa trying to find a comfortable position.
“No, everything’s cool” – David replied ironically.
“Are we going to talk? What’s the matter?”- Emma sounded a bit worried.
“I think you should talk. Who was the man you left with earlier today? Was he your “friend”? – David tried to imitate quotation marks in order to show her that he doesn’t believe her.
“Oh, God! Who told you this?” – Emma seemed surprised.
“Don’t reply with a question! I need answers!” David was angry.
“Okay, that was my manager. I needed to leave the mall. It was so boring! Your mother was constantly complaining about the paparazzi and the media and worrying about you. It was very stressful, so I called Mike to help me. And yes, I lied to them because your mother would make a big deal of it.” – Emma tried to explain.
“And why did not you call me? Or at least to let me know that you are somewhere with him?” – David was getting furious. “Instead, I got the voice mail when I called you!”
“David, calm down! Nothing happened! Don’t be so jealous!”
“I think you should leave immediately! – David was yelling now, so Emma had no other choice. She took her coat and immediately left the house.
Emma was shocked because of David’s behavior. She did not expect him to react like this, especially when nothing happened between her and Mike. She was wiping her tears but they kept falling down. She was disappointed, but this time it was because of her not because of David. David also made some huge mistakes in the past. However, he has improved since then a lot. It was expected from Emma to return to his improvement in the same way as he managed to convince her that everything was changing and that he was ready to embrace her with all of her mistakes, flaws, the media pressure and much more.
She left with Mike because he is the manager so she would avoid arguing again with Rush and she would avoid another scene with the media. She discussed with Mike about that event in the mall earlier and he told her that the paparazzi took many photos of them together and that tomorrow morning there will be articles in every magazine about the so called “family reunion”. The bad thing was that David thinks that Mike has a crush on Emma and Emma was aware of that. There is nothing she can do because Mike has shown her that he really has some feelings towards her.
With all of these thoughts in her head, Emma was wandering the streets. She decided to have a stroll and clear up her mind a bit. She was wearing a hat, jacket, and a scarf in order to avoid being recognized by someone. She was walking or half hour when there was a car behind her driving really slowly. She did not pay attention to it at first, but then she was paranoid that maybe someone is following her or maybe some reporter from the media realized about the argument between her and David and now seeks for more details. Initially, she thought of running and going back to David’s house. This was just the initial idea, but she decided to face the man that is in the car so she stopped walking and turned back. She felt a bit annoyed, but relieved at the same time. It was Mike! He was following her all the time. She entered the car.
“You are such a freak! You scared the shit out of me!”
“It’s me! Don’t worry! I was following you because you seemed a bit pissed off when you went to David’s home and it seems like you were pissed off also when you left. So, don’t be angry it is a good idea that I was following you! I was just worried.” – Mike tried to explain.
“It’s okay, Mike. I had an exhausting day. Would you like to take me home?”
“Yes, sure. Only one condition – I want you to tell me what happened with David this time. I am also your friend now.”
“Ahh! The usual stuff. He does not believe me, he is jealous, he thinks I don’t care about him enough and of course here is Mrs. Simmons who makes the situation even more difficult! Can we please go home now?
“Come on, relax, you do not deserve all of this! You are a very good girl Emma.” – Mike started caressing her hands and then his cheeks and he was getting closer to her almost 2 inches from her mouth.
“You deserve better Emma, I’ve told you before” – Mike kissed Emma and it was a very long ad soft kiss and Emma did not deny it.
Even though she enjoyed the kiss, the feeling of guilt was enormous compared to the few seconds of enjoyment. The truth is that the last few weeks with David were not really good. However, David did not deserve this because deep down in her heart she knew that he was trying his best to make this work. On the other hand, Mike was offering her the piece of the jigsaw that was missing – the understanding that she was desperately seeking for. He was there when she needed him and he managed to rescue her from the troubles that have been following her lately. Anyway, this was a small moment of weakness and Mike took advantage of it.
“Are you okay?” – Mike asked her with a very sensitive voice.
“I don’t know...” – He could understand from her voice that she was overwhelmed.
“Do you want to talk about what has just happened? I just want to let you know that…” – Mike was interrupted.
“I don’t want to talk about it! I don’t even know what to think…please take me home.”- Emma was feeling miserable.
“I just want to let you know that I have no regrets. If I had the chance I would do this again. I mean this. I know that it must be very confusing for you, but I am patient.”
Emma did not reply. She was just looking outside the window. While they were travelling back home, it was quiet in the car. Emma did not say anything, and Mike was scared that he would make her mad if he says something. After a half hour they were in front of Emma’s house.
“Emma, I know that this is not easy for you. I will give you some time to think. Please call me tomorrow. I am worried about you.”
“I will.”
As soon as she walked in home she realized that her heart and her mind would not agree on the previous situation. Her mind was too tired and her heart as well. She did not want to think at all. Instead of staring at the ceiling or looking out of the window and analyzing every thought and every word she said previously, she took a pill and went straight to bed. After a minute she drifted off.
The next morning she was feeling a bit dizzy. She was not sure if that was a side effect of the pill or it was because of the thing that happened yesterday with David and also the other one with Mike. She did not want to talk to anybody. She went downstairs to pour a cup of coffee and went back to her room. There were 29 missed calls. Some were from David and some from Mike. She was not ready to deal with neither of them so she ignored the phone. She enjoyed her coffee avoiding her thoughts of infidelity and humiliation. On the other hand, David did not want even to hear her explanation. The doorbell interrupted coffee, but she decided to ignore it. Someone persistently was ringing so she decided to open the door. To her surprise, it was David.
“Hey”-
“I was so worried that you did not return to my calls, so I am here I want to talk with you.” – David was a bit nervous.
“Sorry, I did not hear the phone. I was sleeping.” – Emma poured one more cup of coffee and handed it to David. He was sitting on the sofa.
“About last night….” Those were the words Emma was hoping not to hear because she was afraid that David might have found out about Mike.
At that moment, someone else rang the doorbell. For Emma it was a relief because she wanted to avoid the conversation about last night.
“Hey”
“Oh my God! I did not expect you now!” – Emma was stunned because in front of her was Mike… and David was in the room.
“Who is it?” David asked.
“The paper boy! I will be right back!” Emma tried to hide how shocked she was because of the Mike’s visit. This was not a good time for both of them to be in the same room with Emma. Perhaps, Emma was paranoid. David might not figure out that there was something between Emma and Mike. However, she was afraid that her facial expressions or her gestures will betray her. Just like she did with David.
Emma closed the door and she was on the outside with Mike. They were whispering.
“What are you doing here? You can’t be here, right now. David’s here! Oh my God this is so stressful! I just really can’t take it anymore!” Emma was breathing very hard. She was having a panic attack.
“I did not mean to cause all of this drama. I thought you were alone. In fact, I was worried about you. You have not returned any of my calls.” – Mike was also confused. “I do not know to react to all of this… I mean we can’t pretend that nothing happened. There was something between us and you know it… You can’t deny it as much as you wish you could. Even though I know it won’t be easy, I can deny all of this. I mean I have a responsibility towards you. You mean to me, you know it right?”
“Oh, Mike, come on! This is not the time! I mean, David is in here you are out here, this is too much. I can handle it. I would invite you in but he is in there and I am afraid that he would realize that there was something between us if he sees us together. Please, go!”
“I will, but only if you promise to call me me back and meet me tonight” –Mike was determined to see her again by tonight.
“I will, now, please go!
Emma entered her house and was closing the door when she saw that David was right there next to the door but from the inside. She was afraid that he might have been there all the time and have overheard their conversation.
“Oh, David you scared me! Why are you standing here?”
“Well, you were out for so long and I wanted to see what was going on?”
“Oh, nothing, just a little chat with the paper boy. You know, I am a big star so he wanted to take a photo and also an autograph from me. You know the usual fan meeting.” – Emma tried to look relaxed.
“Really? Then where is the newspaper?” – David was looking at Emma because she looked so suspicious.
Emma reacted quickly. “Well, I forgot to take it, you know with all the photographing and that stuff. In fact, I felt sorry for the boy that I only gave him the money and did not take the newspaper. He might give it to someone else and get more money.” – She was even stuttering a bit because she was nervous, so she changed the topic.
“Come on here, the coffee will get cold. We have a lot of things talk about I guess.”
Emma was feeling relieved because somehow she managed to handle the situation. She was really tense, so she was pretending that she was busy with something in the kitchen, so that David will not notice that something was wrong. She was aware that David knows who she really is and how she reacts in certain situations. They have been together for some time now, so she was afraid that he will realize the truth only by looking her at her eyes.
David sat on the chair in order to drink his coffee and to talk to Emma, but Emma went to the kitchen with the excuse that she needed to load the dishwasher and that she will be right back. While standing in the kitchen, she had a few seconds to pull herself together and to make that guilty look vanish off her face.
“I’m finally here! – Emma sat next to David. “So, what were you saying?”
“Well, nothing. I just came to apologize. I feel terrible about this situation. You are right. I might have overreacted a bit, but that is only because of you! I love you! I think I had enough drama in this life. I want us to work. I mean, after everything we have been through, I can’t let you go. If you still believe in me and in us, in our future, I want to give this relationship another try.” – It sounded as David was really sincere and prepared to take this relationship to the next level.
Emma was happy to hear all of this. She felt a sense of security and warmth in her heart. She was aware that David was honest with her and that is exactly want she wanted to hear. However, she also wanted to meet with Mike. That was dangerous for everybody, for her career, for David and for the media and her reputation. Anyway, she wanted to just go and listen to what he has to say.
“I know, I am also tired of all of this. I mean, my life is already stressful enough with so much pressure.” –In fact, the only sweet stress was Mike.
“I also want to be with you, but this time I want you to believe in me and no one else. I hate when someone else is involved this or that way.” –
The words were just popping out of her mouth. She could not stop herself from speaking. None of this was really true. She was aware that these are the words that David wanted to listen. In fact, these were words that she was supposed to say to him now that he told her that he loved her and that he would do anything for her. She knew that she was a hypocrite, but somehow she could not make the heart believe what the mind wanted to. She was not in love with Mike and she still had feelings for David. Somehow, there was something that was dragging her towards Mike. Maybe it was just a curiosity, or maybe Mike was just a challenge for her. She could not define it, but it was there.
“Okay, so what are you up to? Do you want to go somewhere or to do something together?” – The thrill in David voice could be felt and Emma was feeling guilty because of all of this but she decided to go with the flow.
“Well, I don’t know. I don’t have any plans.”
“Well, what do you say about a picnic in the park? It is sunny outside.”
“Okay, but I need to be home by 6.”
“Really? You said you did not have any plans for today?”
Emma realized that she would have been caught.
“Oh, it’s nothing serious! I will tell you on our way” – She wanted to buy herself some time in order to think of a lie. It must be a persuasive lie so that David will not suspect that she is meeting Mike tonight again.
Emma put her jacket on and they were ready for a stroll in the park. David was waiting for her in the hall. While Emma was looking for some sneakers to wear her phone was ringing. It was Mike. She could not answer now because David could come in and overhear her conversation. She really needed to be more careful. She cancelled the call, but Mike was persistent. Emma quickly thought of an excuse.
She opened the door. David was there waiting for her.
“Could you wait a few seconds? I will just put some make up on and I will be ready. You know, there might be someone taking photos again.”
“Yes, sure! But, please, hurry up. You are always beautiful, remember that.” – Emma was feeling guilty because of the sweet, innocent face of David. Anyway, the fire inside her was burning and she really wanted to give a chance to this so that she could see here it will go. David was sweet and kind, but Mike was adventurous and filled her body with adrenaline. She went upstairs and called Mike.
“Please, don’t call me now! I told you David was here. This whole situation makes me so anxious.” – Emma was freaked out.
“I know. I just wanted to hear your voice and to confirm our date tonight. Please make some excuse so that we could meet tonight.”
“Okay, 6 my house?”
“Sure, can’t wait!”
Emma hung up and she could feel the excitement about the upcoming date and the butterflies that appeared in her stomach. This feeling was greater compared to the guilt.
She went immediately downstairs. David was still in the yard waiting for her. She quickly put some make up on and went out.
“I am ready! Let’s enjoy the day. I need to be home by 6. I had to think of an idea about the next promotion of the film” – She tried to sound convincingly.
“Why you? Aren’t there other people who are supposed to do this for you?”
“Well…” – She got confused. “We are a team so I also want to make a contribution. That’s the way we work.”
“Oh, okay, sure.”
It seemed that David believed her.
The day was wonderful. They were walking around the lake in the park and had a coffee in the café in the woods. There were a lot of people wanting to take a photo with Emma and a few flashlights from the paparazzi camera, but everything went great, except for one thing. David noticed that Emma was watching constantly at her watch and that activity put a bit of doubt in his heart, but he did not mention anything.
“It was a wonderful day. This idea of yours was excellent I really had so much fun!”
“I also enjoyed this day very much” – His kissed her on his forehead and he could feel that she was distracted.
“Did I do something wrong? You seem a bit distracted.”
“No, nothing. I am just a bit tired. Shall we go home?” – It was obvious that Emma was trying to hide something.
“Yes, sure.”
David dropped off Emma in front of her house. She just kissed David with a cold hug and immediately left. It was 10 minutes to 6.
“I have to go. I will call you as soon as we finish the meeting.” – She immediately left.
Mike was waiting for her outside the door. He was eagerly waiting for Emma to arrive. When she approached, his eyes were shining. A sparkle appeared in his eyes.
“I could not wait anymore to see you.” – He grabbed her around her waist and pulled her towards him.
“I need you!” – He kissed her and she did not refuse his kiss. It seemed that she enjoyed it so much.
Meanwhile, David was driving for a few miles when he realized that he forgot his keys earlier today in Emma’s house. He returned and drove towards her house. There was an unpleasant surprise waiting for him there. When he walked into her yard, he saw them kissing passionately. He was broken.
The more passionate the kisses were the more broken he was feeling. The tears in his eyes could not be kept because the sorrow was so big. The pain in his heart was enormous and the tears on his cheeks were warm just like the fire that was burning in his heart. There was a mixture of feelings and his heart and his brain could not decide which feeling was greater. The brain was more focused on the betrayal and the heart was insisting that their love was true and that this is only a phase in their relationship. He was struggling inside but his face did not show anything. He did not want to make a sound or anything else because he did not want Emma to know that she was caught.
He needed some time to think so he left. He was in shock, so he was sitting in his car for a while. He could not believe what he saw there. It seemed to him that his eyes had betrayed him. But, unfortunately, they are always right, even though he could not believe them. He refused to believe the truth because it was too painful. The tears started falling again on his cheeks and he did not even want to stop them. It might hurt less if he just let them go. This time he was crying loudly in his car.
Somehow, after some time, he managed to come to his senses and started driving home. This was a very tiring day and very stressful. He was checking his phone constantly but there was no call or message from Emma. That was irritating him because he was aware why she was not calling or texting. He arrived home. It was dark and cold. Maybe it seemed that it was like that because of his feelings. He went straight to the kitchen. He poured a glass of whiskey and drunk it immediately. However, it was burning his stomach, not his heart. He poured another glass and drunk it the same way. There was no call from Emma and that irritated him so he threw his phone away and went straight to bed. This was too much for him on to happen in one day.
Anyway, he could not fall asleep. He was going through the situation over and over again and he could not realize why Emma did this to him when he was in love with her. The most painful part was that he thought that she was in love with him too, especially after everything they have been through. He was thinking for hours but he could not find the right answer. Somehow, he fell asleep.
It was a short nap but anyway, it was interrupted by a constant knocking on the door. He could not see what time it was because his phone was not there. He managed somehow to open the door. There was Emma standing in front of him. This time, she was the last person he wanted to see. He tried to stay calm and not to say anything immediately.
“What are you doing here?”
Emma was surprised from his behavior but she did not say anything about it.
“Well, I was worried about you since you did not return my calls. Are you okay? Your face is red and swollen.”
“Yes, I am. I think you should go now. I am not in the mood to talk right now.”
“Is there something wrong? You seem a bit absent.” – Deep in her heart, she was convinced that David has his doubts about her and Mike.
“That is none of your problem. I’ll call you” – David closed the door.
Emma was very angry this time so she opened it again. Luckily, David was still behind the door.
“You will tell me right now what is going on here.”
“Oh, really ask your manager. I believe your meeting went great and that he has everything under his control.” – David closed the door and Emma was standing on the other side of the door with minions of thoughts on her mind.
This is all my fault” – Emma was feeling guiltier than ever, especially now when she was aware that David saw her with Mike.
She did not know what to do. She has been calling David, but he did not answer even though he knew that she was still in front of his door. This was his way of a punishment for her. He still loves her deep in his heart, but he still needed some time to get over this situation. On the other hand, he was afraid that she might be in love with him anymore and that this is not just a phase.
David was watching Emma through the window while she was still standing in front of the door. It seemed as she was a small puppy in front of the door waiting for its owner to open it and to feed it. His heart was tearing apart. He loved her and this view was in fact killing him even though it did not seem that way to Emma. His phone was ringing, but his mind did not let him answer. He wanted her to learn the lesson. He also wanted to hug her and give her a chance to explain. There was no way out except to give himself some time.
Emma went home. She was afraid that the paparazzi might have followed her. That’s why she was looking for some old photos of her so that he could post them on social media and pretend that she was not in David’s home but somewhere else.
Meanwhile, there was no call from David. She wanted a chance to talk to him. She started imagining that she was talking to her and suddenly her mind blocked. If she talked to him, she would not know what to say to him. Was it an impulsive behavior or maybe was it because she was led by heart? Or maybe, she just wanted to chance something in her life…
These thoughts were so deep and she really needed to sit quietly and deal with her feelings. It was necessary, but it was not a priority now.
There were many private photos of Emma in her phone and her computer. Many of them were not published anywhere, so she decided to post some of them now on social media so that people could think that she was there then and not in David’s house. There were photos of her in a restaurant having some pasta and wine with a smile on her face and perfect makeup and clothes. She was holding the glass of wine in her hand and the phone in the other one. She was smiling and looking at the phone at the same time. This photo seemed like a good one to make a camouflage for the media.
As soon as she clicked ‘post’ in order to upload her photo, her phone rang. She was excited because she thought that David was calling. She was wrong. It was an unknown number and she avoids the numbers she has not memorized in her phone.
With a glass of white wine, she lay down in her bed and decided to turn off her brain for a bit.
On the other side of the town, David was sitting and worrying out Emma. He did not want to talk to her, but he wanted to know what she was doing and how she was. These thoughts were torturing him so he needed to be distracted by something. He took the phone and started scrolling the social media when he saw the photo of Emma in a restaurant. She was looking at her phone and smiling so he thought that she might be chatting with him. He was more worried about the person she was with because someone must have been there to take the photo. I was not a selfie. David was furious because his tactic did not work.
Emma was lying when her phone rang one more time. It was Mike. When she saw her name on the screen, she got excited and some butterflies appeared in her stomach. This feeling made her anxious because she was aware that she was wrong and that it is wrong to be with him. She answered anyway.
“Hello”
The voice on the other side seemed worried “Are you okay, Emma?”
There was a signal that there was someone else calling her on the second line. It was David. It was time for her to choose…
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)