Chapter 10
Rain’s eyes practically bulged out of the screen during our late–night video call. I sat cross–legged on the bed in my small but cozy apartment, laughing softly at her dramatic
reaction.
“Yes, Rain. That Julian. The one who owns the gallery. The one I spilled coffee on before I knew he was my boss.”
She squealed like she was fifteen again. “Girl! I Googled him the second you said his name–he’s on Forbes‘ Top 30 Under 30! And he was voted one of England’s most eligible bachelors last
year.”
I rolled my eyes. “Rain…”
“What? I’m just saying!” She grinned, pointing a chip at the camera. “He’s rich, talented, clean–shaven, and hot. And you? You’re single, newly divorced, hotter than ever, and finally living your best life. It’s fate.”
“It’s nothing,” I said quickly, biting back a smile. “He’s my boss. That’s all. He was just being polite after the coffee incident.”
Rain narrowed her eyes like she didn’t believe a word I said. “Well, if he asks you out, say yes. I swear, if you tell me in a month that he’s secretly married with five kids, I’m flying to London to personally investigate.”
I laughed, and for the first time in a long time, it felt real. Light.
We talked until our screens dimmed and our eyes drooped. By the time I finally fell asleep, I had dreamed of canvas, color palettes–and, for some strange reason, Julian Thorne’s smile.
The next morning, I woke up with a start and immediately checked the time.
My first official day at the gallery.
was nervous, excited… and maybe, just a tiny bit flustered as I chose my outfit–a tailored white. blouse tucked into sleek black trousers. Polished, clean, safe.
Before heading in, I stopped by a café and ordered two lattes. One for me–and one for Julian. I figured it was the least I could do to thank him, and maybe make up for that embarrassing coffee spill.
When I arrived at the gallery, I knocked softly on his office door.
‘Come in,” came his voice.
stepped inside and offered the cup with a sheepish smile. “Peace offering?”
Julian looked up from a stack of paperwork, his brow arching slightly before he accepted it. “Is this bribery?” he teased.
laughed. “Maybe.”
He took a sip and smiled. “Then it’s working.”
The rest of the day passed quickly. I was given a full orientation, introduced to the team, shown. where the current pieces were housed, and even briefed on a new exhibit launching next month. I
Chapter 10
2:56 pm DDDD
jotted notes like a madwoman, eager to prove myself.
Julian passed by occasionally, offering quiet encouragement and suggestions. He had a way of making everything feel calm, even the intimidating parts.
By the end of the day, my feet ached but my spirit soared.
As I waited outside for the rideshare, I heard a voice behind me. “Heading home?”
I turned to see Julian exiting the building, coat draped over one arm.
“Yeah. First day was amazing.”
He nodded. “You did great.”
Our eyes met for a beat longer than necessary. Then he offered a small wave. “See you tomorrow, Alicia.”
“Yeah,” I said, and before I could stop myself, I giggled. “See you.”
I climbed into the car grinning like an idiot.
Later that night, still buzzing with excitement, I decided to do something I hadn’t done in ages.
Celebrate.
I changed into something a little more casual–jeans, heeled boots, and a fitted top–and headed to a nearby bar. It wasn’t too loud, not too crowded. Just right for sipping a drink and unwinding.
I didn’t feel like dancing, so I nursed my cocktail at the bar and chatted idly with a few strangers. Most were nice, forgettable. A couple were trying too hard. None of them held my attention.
I eventually found myself on the dance floor, swaying to the beat, letting the music shake the last of my nerves loose.
That’s when it happened.
A man–maybe in his thirties, too much cologne and too little respect–grabbed my waist.
“Hey, gorgeous. Dance with me.”
I pulled away, forcing a polite smile. “No, thank you.”
He didn’t let go.
“C’mon, don’t be like that.”
I tried to push him back. “I said no.”
He laughed and gripped my wrist. “Playing hard to get?”
“Let go of me!” I said louder now, eyes darting around for security or anyone who might step in. “I have a boyfriend.”
He leaned in, sneering. “Yeah? Where is he, then?”
And then a voice behind me, sharp and familiar: “Right here.”
A punch landed. The guy reeled back, clutching his jaw, and staggered off into the crowd. I turned, heart pounding.
Julian stood there, breathing hard, his arm still extended.
Bye. Husband Hello Freedom!
