A Woman's Worth: Beyond Wounded Volume 2

By D.T. Williams

Catherine Hubert is a successful career woman who has taken the corporate world by storm. She has made a name for herself as one of the best accountants in New York City. From the outside looking in everyone thinks she has it all, but Cat can’t seem to find true happiness. After a broken engagement, Cat’s insecurities and faith in love are at an all-time low. That is until a handsome neighbor moves in next door.

Emilio Lombardi is a free spirited photographer who loves to capture life’s most beautiful moments on film. When he sees Cat he thinks he has found his Mona Lisa and stops at nothing to pursue her, but her broken heart and their cultural differences continuously puts them at odds. Will these two souls finally connect or will life’s obstacles keep them separate?

• Language: English
• Publisher: D.T. Williams
• Release date: Aug 10, 2015
• ISBN: 9781310693502

D.T. Williams

My name is D. T. Williams. I was raised in Lake City, Florida where I have lived all of my life and now I reside in Orlando. I took a strong liking to books at a very young age and have maintained that same passion as an adult. I have always indulged myself in reading many books from different authors some of which inspired me to create my own work. Writing for me came a little later in my years; it first started out with poems, short stories until I finally created my first novel. I have now been inspired to showcase my talent to the world in hopes to entertain and inspire others. Now that I am pursing further education I choose to continue to grow in the knowledge of reading and writing. I hope you all will join me on this journey in helping me achieve success through my work

Book preview

A Woman’s Worth

By D. T. Williams

Copyright

A Woman’s Worth

Copyright © 2018 by D.T. Williams

Published by D.T Williams

All rights reserved.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales or, is entirely coincidental.

Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Epilogue

About the Author

Other books by the author

Prologue

Emilio

It was around five o’clock that evening when I noticed her. I stood on my cabin cruiser boat, watching her as she stepped out onto the street and walked by. Losing all breath in my body, I helplessly watched her sashay into her condominium. I had never seen a woman so beautiful in my life—she was so confident and so undeniably sexy. Standing about 5’7" with beautiful mahogany brown skin, the mysterious beauty had the most gorgeous face that could cause a priest to lust for her. I admired her hourglass figure—her full breasts that were perfectly symmetrical to her small waist, which spread out into her hips and shapely bottom. Standing there holding the rope attached to my cruiser, my eyes followed her as she made her way to the elevator. Surprisingly, her room was at the top floor right in front of me. I continued to watch her through the uncovered glass windows of her condo.

Perfect, I muttered to myself.

I didn’t want this moment to end.

Peering through the window, I could see her in the midst of a conversation on her phone. I watched as she slowly slid out of her white blazer coat. Her body was exposed more clearly in a form fitting dress. She must not have noticed her window blinds were open as she leaned down and removed her jewelry and high stiletto heels. I swallowed hard, not believing the sensual peep show I was getting. The ebony princess walked around her place as she removed her attire, leaving nothing on but black lingerie.

Oh, my God, I groaned, gazing at her full figure. It was the first time my eyes had ever beheld a woman with such a curvaceous body, and it was causing an uprising in my deck below. Pulling at the collar of my white t-shirt, my breathing became difficult. I didn’t know what was wrong with me; I had never been so enthralled by a woman before. It was riveting.

As her phone conversation ended, my curvy goddess escaped from my view and disappeared into one of the backrooms. I took calming breaths as I slowly got myself together. Wow, I can’t wait till I run into her in the elevator. After finishing securing my boat, I gathered my bag and headed into the same condominium, feeling more comfortable about my drastic move into this new city. Grabbing my duffle bag, I made my way inside.

Good evening, Mr. Lombardi. The service desk attendant smiled. He was an older gentleman, sporting a navy-blue suit topped off with a toupee and bright smile.

Good evening. Is my condo ready yet?

Yes, sir. Everything has been furnished. Your belongings have been put away and your phone line is intact. You also have a message from Mr. Lombardi Senior.

Oh, great. What possibly could my old man want now? I simply nodded and headed to the elevator. Making my way to the 10th floor, I saw no signs of my ebony beauty, which was disappointing. However, the memory I retained of her was enough to satisfy my desires...for now.

Chapter One

Meet the Boss Chick

Cat

I strutted into Taylor and Jones Accounting Firm bright and early Monday morning, like the true leading lady that I am, smiling widely as my stiletto heels clicked and clacked against the tile floors passing the front desk secretary.

Good morning, Ms. Hubert, she chirped as I got closer.

Good morning, I replied, matching her tone.

Briefcase in hand, I made my way into the elevator amongst my other colleagues and headed to the 5th floor.

Well, Jonathan, what are the plans for today? Markham Jones turned to ask his co-partner.

Jonathan Taylor nodded as his business partner made early morning conversation. You know the usual, Mark—big clients, with big money, meaning big commissions for us. They both laughed at the sound of that.

As we all arrived to the 5th floor, the two older gentlemen turned around and glanced at me. Ms. Hubert, looks like you’re in for a busy day. From what I hear there is a line of clients dying to work with our new junior partner. Jonathan smiled.

Mr. Taylor, if I’m not working hard, I’m not working at all. I winked at the both of them. They chuckled at my philosophy as I made my exit.

I told you, Jonathan… Markham smiled, patting his shoulder. She is something else. You damn right I am! Since coming to work for Taylor and Jones ten years ago, I had managed to bring in the most well-paid clients—increasing the firm’s status and revenue.

After earning my Bachelors in Accounting, I wasted no time applying for a job at the most talked about firm in New York City. Immediately, I was shunned by male coworkers who saw me as nothing more than a pretty face trying to play a man’s game. Little did they know, my little pretty face happened to work in my favor. I couldn’t count all the basketball players, football players—give or take a few baseball stars—who suddenly came running to start an account with the company after just one encounter with this pretty face.

Now, don’t get this twisted; I was not Monica Lewinsky-ing my way to the top. I just knew how to work my mojo to get deals from money loaded prospects. Once Taylor and Jones saw that I was a force to be reckoned with, it wasn’t long before the promotion to Junior Partner came my way. And I gladly accepted. Along with my success came a couple of haters as expected, especially from my male co-workers but to hell with them…I was doing what I had to do.

Good morning, Ms. Hubert. A few secretaries and interns smiled as I walked past them.

Good morning.

Glancing down at my Concord watch, I made my way into my secluded office. It was in perfect eye view of everyone, making me feel as if I were the queen sitting at the top of the throne. I slipped inside and prepared myself for the day ahead. There were three messages on my voicemail along with a lovely bouquet of red roses. Searching through the beautiful flowers, I soon spotted the card they came with.

Hey there, Catherine… just sending a thank you for all your hard work…thought a beautiful woman deserved beautiful flowers…call me. Blaze.

Oh, boy. Blaze Crews was a well-known running back for the New York Jets. He loved to live a lavish lifestyle—so lavish he was blowing through all of his money. A mutual friend introduced us at a company party. Taking pity on him, I decided to help get his pockets in order, not wanting to see another brutha go MC Hammer broke. Although I was happy to receive his money for the company, I could do without his pestering attempts for a date. Don’t get me wrong—Blaze was as handsome as they come, like a big chocolate gladiator with his bald head and thick lips.

His constant groupies and baby mama drama may have made him an instant sex symbol in Hollywood; however, they made him an instant No on my list. I made my way to my office chair and played my messages while I got my files ready.

Message one…Hello, Ms. Hubert, just calling to confirm Mr. Joules’s meeting with you at 10…

Got it…Next… I pressed the skip button on my machine. Kitty, it’s Mommy…

Oh, God, I groaned deeply as the sound of her shrieking voice played through the small machine. What could she possibly want? With all the work I had to do today, the last thing I needed was to hear from my nagging mother.

Girl, when are you gonna call me? I haven’t heard from you all week.

We just talked the other day, Mama.

Anyway, I may be making a trip up there to see you soon and hopefully by the time I get there you will have a man.

Oh, here we go. Rubbing my aching temples, I sat quietly as she informed—not asked—me that she would be making a trip from Florida all the way to New York not before still reminding me how man-less and childless I am.

I have to go, Kitty…your daddy’s missing his pills again. Call me back later.

I sighed wearily as my mother’s voice left the machine. Renee Marie Hubert had been the biggest pain in my neck ever since I was born—always constantly on me about something. Every time I heard her complaining voice, all I could do was shake my head and sigh. Nothing I ever did was good enough for that woman, not even graduating with honors from NYU or landing this good paying job. It was always something I wasn’t doing right. Her number one problem now was me not being married or having babies at the age of thirty-five. It’s not like I haven’t been trying.

I have been on more dates than a well-paid call girl, but nothing ever seemed to work out. Anyway, I didn’t have time to worry about my mother. Not when there was work to be done and money to be made. Leaning back in my office chair, I quietly listened to the last message on the machine. Hey there, Cat. Immediately, my ears perked up at the sound of that rich creamy voice. It’s Brian. I was hoping to stop by sometime tomorrow and talk to you about something. It’s not that big of a deal but I really need a woman’s opinion. Anyway, I will talk to you soon, okay? Bye, dear.

Squealing in delight, I melted like silly putty in my office chair. Brian Graham was the first handsome man I met when I came to this firm. He was the only one amongst the rest who didn’t see a woman in charge as a threat to his ego; he even took the initiative to show me the ropes around the company. We had been tiptoeing around each other for a while but now I think he was ready to step up to the plate.

Ms. Hubert? The front desk secretary called.

Yes… I said, quickly fanning myself and trying to calm down the lustful flames.

Your ten o’clock meeting is ready.

I nodded as I gathered my files together. Okay. I’ll be there in a minute. Finally standing to my feet, I felt chipper than usual. There was more of a strut in my walk as I exited my office. Yes, Ms. Hubert…things are looking good for you, girl.

*****

Emilio

Making my way into my newly furnished condo, I gazed around the place in amazement. Nice! The space was huge with the finest décor and furnishings that even Martha Stewart would be proud of. Oh, my mother would love this.

What most caught my attention was the view. Peering out unto the docks, I gazed at the sunset, letting my mind drift into another zone. The ringing of my phone brought me back into reality. Oh, damn. I growled, running to pick up the receiver. I forgot to call my father back. Quickly picking up the phone before he hung up, I greeted him as his voice came through the other line. Hello? Papa.

Milio! He said in his full-grown Sicilian accent. I have been calling you like crazy. Where have you been?

I sighed as my father berated me as if I were a little boy. Papa, I have been busy all week, with the company and moving and—

Ha, moving? You have been gallivanting around the world ever since you turned eighteen. Son, when are you going to finally settle down, have a wife, some children for amor del cielo, I groaned, hearing those words amor del cielo or heaven sakes. I had been hearing that all my life, every time I did something my father found displeasing. Why couldn’t he understand that I was my own man and I was going to do whatever made me happy, even if it was against what he believed?

Papa, enough, okay? I am fine. My place has been paid for and the company is already getting started here.

Really? He suspiciously questioned. And just how are you faring in the big world of photography, son?

Well, I’m glad you asked, I walked to the kitchen, digging in the fridge and cracking open a beer. Going back in the living area, I took a seat on the couch, impressed that my father actually cared to ask how my business was doing.

I just met with a modeling agency who wants to work with me to create profiles for their new recruits.

My father was silent for a moment before responding. Well, that is all well and good, but do you really think this is going to last? Annnnnd were back, I thought.

Papa, I’m tired, okay? Can we have this conversation later? My father sighed heavily into the phone. I didn’t need to be there in Sicily to know that he had a glass of scotch on the table and Frank Sinatra playing in the background.

Milio, I only want what’s best for you, son. I want to make sure that you are happy and well off.

Well, I am a grown man. I think I know what is best for me and I think I know how to take care of myself. I just need you to believe that I can do it. Or don’t you believe in me?

Of course, I do. Any son of mine can do anything, I smiled, feeling like I had finally gotten through to him. Now were talking.

Alright, son, let me get off of this phone before your mother catches me.

So, I suppose she doesn’t know you’re harassing me right now?

This is not harassment, this is love. Now I will speak with you later. Goodbye, son.

Goodbye, Papa. As we hung up the phone, I laid back on the couch and relaxed, wondering what good ole New York had in store for me.

Chapter Two

Wishful Thinking

Cat

Bright and early the next morning I was up and preparing for my big meeting with Brian. I took a long soak in my English tub, washing my skin in Honeybee bubble bath. I was feeling particularly good, playing Mary J.’s Real Love on my iPod. Pulling myself out of the bathroom, I went straight to my closet to find an outfit that would catch Brian’s attention. I pulled out the perfect beige Donna Karan dress, which stopped a little above the knee and made a perfect V-Cut in the back. Great, I mumbled, looking over my ensemble.

I laid my outfit and matching stilettos on the bed before finishing my morning routine. As I massaged lotion into my skin, I took notice of my body in the mirror. I stared down at my large breasts, hips, and thighs, examining myself and searching for flaws—as usual. Having always been a very voluptuous girl, even in middle school, memories started to trail blaze my mind, thinking back on when all this body development started. In a matter of two years, I went from a nice B-cup all the way to these Double-Ds practically exploding out of my shirts. Talk about a growth spurt.

It was as if I couldn’t stop growing to save my damn life and everyone took notice, especially the boys. They all seemed eager to talk to the black Dolly Parton of the school, thinking they were about to get a free peep show or something, but they soon found out I was not having that. I must say the most torment I experienced about my overdeveloped body came from my own mother, who, by the way was buying new bras and jeans every couple of months.

Girl, you’re going to put me out of a house and home the way those things keep growing. I don’t have the money to keep taming those bowling balls on your chest, she would say boldly and loudly. Talk about embarrassing.

For the longest time, I felt ashamed and disgusted with myself, not understanding why I was becoming a woman so early in life. But as time passed, I soon found I was working with a body of mass destruction. I started to own my appearance and to take pride in my curvy figure. But as I got older, it became harder to keep my weight down. Push back from the table a bit, Kitty, my mother would nag as she noticed me get bigger. You don’t want that Coke bottle to turn into a bleach bottle.

Forcing myself day after day to hit the gym, I made sure I stayed as small as possible—eating salads and fruits like they were sirloin steaks and potatoes. I avoided fast food at all cost. I couldn’t tell you the last time I had experienced the taste of a Big Mac from McDonalds. I knew a girl in my position had no choice but to stick to the dietary regimen that I had been on but even then, sometimes it still wasn’t good enough.

Bringing my attention back to the day at hand, I no longer wanted to focus on anything negative. Brian was finally going to ask me out on date. I slipped into my clothes, applied minimal make up and styled my neatly cut bob. Pleased with my appearance, I did a quick twirl around, feeling just as good as I looked. Splashing a bit of Dior perfume on my skin, I gave myself an approving wink in the mirror. Alright, girl, go get your man.

I made sure to do my come and get it walk into the office with the biggest Miss America smile I could form on my face.

Good morning Ms. Hubert.

Good morning.

Passing by the front desk, I slipped into the elevator, and arrived to the 5th floor in no time as usual. Good morning, Ms. Hubert. Mr. Graham called and said he would be arriving to your office within the next ten minutes, the floor secretary informed me as she juggled incoming calls, while handing me my mail, and updating me about my expected guest.

Thank you, Gloria. I politely grinned before grabbing my mail and heading to my office. Placing my things down, I straightened up around the room, and prepared for Brian’s arrival. Sliding off my coat, I opened my closet door checking myself in the hidden mirror to make sure I still had the same flare I had before I left home. Okay, Cat, this man is fine, rich, and can wear an Armani suit like nobody’s business. Don’t mess this up.

A slight knock on my door slapped me back into perspective. Show time. Pulling out a spare perfume bottle from one of my drawers, I did a quick spray around the room. Oh, yeah. I slowly opened the door and let Brian walk right in.

Hello, Brian, I said very seductively as I eyed him from head to toe. As usual he was the walking picture of perfection in a steel grey tailored suit. He stood 6’2" with light brown skin, low cut wavy hair, and a sexy goatee, which amplified his already full