The Thor at Her Side

By Nabeelah Dada

Dealing with an absent dad for the last two years, senior Skye is already used to it. Just as she is comfortable in their somewhat evasive routine, she is thrown upside down when they rekindle their relationship.
Just when she is happy, she gets thwarted by the sudden appearance of the very insistent Thorian Thomas.
But Thor has a secret, and one that involves Skye. Can she overcome it all and stick by his side?
Will love prove stronger than her fear of commitment?

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse UK
• Release date: Mar 19, 2014
• ISBN: 9781491892053

Book preview

Chapter One

T hey say to deal with death is a step-by-step process. They say that you will eventually be able to live your life in a normal routine. That wasn’t entirely true for me. Even two years after my mother’s death, my father hasn’t dealt with it, placing a hamper on his and my own relationship.

My name is Moira Skye Lambert and everyone knew that I hated the name Moira because it sounded so old fashioned.

I’m seventeen, a year away from finishing school, well it is only this year, and I will be rid of that place forever. I can’t wait. It feels as if school suffocates me and is designed to suck the creative juices out of me.

I have two best friends named Katy and Angelina and we are as thick as thieves. We became friends on the first day of primary school, both being new made us bond instantly.

I’m a petite build with naturally dark brown and shiny hair that has a curl of its own. I have brown eyes that are completely boring. But this is my life. I am completely a bore.

Yet, Katy on the other hand is a live wire. She is chirpy and happy and blissed. She found happiness in contentment. She is unconventional and loves to be the extraordinaire. She has blue, purple and cerise highlights in her naturally blonde hair. She is tiny built and yet she packs a mean punch.

She refuses to be in with the crowd; and it’s for that reason I love her. She isn’t afraid to be different and stick out. She is far more courageous than I. We are a perfect set, each balancing the other out, like Ying-Yang. Ironically, we each have a ying-yang bracelet, a gift from her parents for us.

Skye! Are you even listening to me? Katy shouted. I cringed. That girl has a set of lungs on her.

What? I said irritated, even though I was in the wrong. I was listening to her until she started talking about school on Monday. Yes, I was finally able to say this is my senior year. No more school for me! Just 20three school days before my final exams officially begin. A joyful pain that is.

You have not heard a word I just said! she said exasperated.

I rolled my eyes at her. Sure I did, just until the point where you ruined my happiness and mentioned school.

She sighed. Look Skye, I’m really sorry, but it’s time you faced it, we are going to school on Monday. It doesn’t matter how many times you avoid it, it won’t make the situation disappear. Suck it up, and let’s go. In her tone of voice it was clear she was upset that I wasn’t paying attention to her, but hey, she has a boyfriend that adores her to listen to that. I gave her a look that told her I was seriously displeased, but gave in to her anyway. I didn’t want to be around when my dad got home in any case.

It wasn’t that we didn’t get along, but rather that seeing each other would bring tears. My mother’s death was still a touchy subject with us, despite her death being two years ago. My dad was still cut up about it and the days before a new school year was always the worse for him.

My mum used to be the one who took me shopping for everything I needed. She was there and always made sure she took me to school on the first day. I remember how internally I used to complain that I’m old enough to go alone, but now that that routine is broken, I miss it. I guess you never know what you’ve got until you no longer have it.

Fine! Let’s go, but you owe me a meal for this! I huffed and she let out a squeal. I swear Katy, if you don’t keep your excitement levels down, I’ll leave you stranded at the mall alone.

She shot me a dirty look. You wouldn’t dare.

Wanna try me? I don’t think you’d be so stupid to do it with the mood I’m in, I warned her.

She rolled her eyes at me, most probably oblivious to my inner turmoil. We stood quietly, walked to the front door and locked up before heading to the mall. Just as we walked through them, Katy turned to me. That’s it! That’s why you’re so miserable, she said out of the blue.

What’s what? I asked lost.

It’s that time again, you know… your mum… . she trailed off.

I nodded. She wasn’t as oblivious to me as I thought. I guess I was making assumptions again. She has her boyfriend who takes up majority of her time, and when we do get together, he wants her to split from me so that she can be with him. I really don’t understand her attraction to him. Andrew Rogers is not that great!

Well, he does have that Italian look going for him and that ultra-buff body of his. But he is so arrogant it works on my nerves. I swear he thinks he is better than the rest of us! Ever since he moved here six months ago—in the middle of the school year—he had girls swooping around him like a moth attracted to a flame. He barely paid the guys attention as he danced and delighted in the female attention.

He didn’t even notice Katy who worshipped him from a far. I bet she never knew that I noticed, but her jealousy was what gave her away. I don’t mean to sound bitter, but how else am I supposed to feel when my boyfriend dumped me for my best friend’s boyfriend. Yes, the idiot I dated for three months turned gay at the sight of Andrew Rogers!

So, my assumption is that I am so ugly, I can turn a guy gay. I got some superpower then!

Skye! Let’s go in here! Katy hissed. I must have been spacing out and making it obvious, time for me to pay attention to my friend while I still have her attention.

I followed her into my dream store, and no, it was not filled with books, and it had jeans and sneakers! Jeans flowing from wall to wall. Bye! I called over my shoulder as I began scouring the jeans. I heard her laugh but paid no attention.

There were jeans with bead work, jeans with studs, wide legs, skinny jeans, three-quarter jeans, three-quarter jeans with anything you can think of. In the end, after spending nearly three hours there, I had a dark rinse, ripped skinny jeans, a black skinny with metallic studs running the length of it and one simple plain, dark blue skinny. I didn’t dare buy me another pair of sneakers, because I knew how my father and Katy would react to that.

Hey Skye, can we head out and get you some shirts for that? Katy asked with arms full of shopping bags. I bet she was tired and wanted to go home. Nice and subtle, Katy.

Yeah sure.

We walked to my favourite store—Dreams. The low lying chandelier gave an expensive, yet homely atmosphere to it, which blended perfectly to the cream walls and earth-brown floors. The massive store has mostly revamped vintage clothes. Not only that, it also has a big range of accessories to choose from with the unusual outfits it sells. I loved it. I walked along the aisles finding and picking nearly ten different styles of shirts, each one more unique than the last. Exasperated, Katy asked, Can we just go already?

I rolled my eyes at her. What? Who urinated in your cereal? I asked.

No one, Andrew is waiting for us at the food court, she explained.

Oh, so it was no hurry to get to him, I muttered sarcastically.

She huffed. Ignoring her, I walked to the cashier and paid for my purchases. So can we get you to your slave master already? I asked, each word dripping with malice. I wasn’t upset that she had a boyfriend or anything; it was just that it was Andrew! He made my blood boil. How can someone with such a big head find someone as sweet as Katy?

She shot me a look. Skye, he isn’t as bad as you think, give him a chance. Please for me, she begged.

Four months and he hasn’t broken your heart yet, I mused. I’m surprised.

Stuff your sarcasm, Skye! He won’t break my heart, I’m sure of it, she defended.

Uh-huh, who says he won’t?

Me!

We were near the food court by now and my anger was rising for some unknown reason. Whatever, I’m not going to fight with you over your boyfriend. Just remember that when things end badly, I warned you, I said giving her a disapproving look.

"Whatever Skye, just because your ex turned out to be gay, doesn’t mean that every other guy is a dog. So please leave Andrew out of this. Come let me get you your lunch I owe you."

I smiled and the fight was forgotten. As we just entered the food court, Andrew caught my attention, but he hadn’t yet noticed Katy. Seconds later, he noticed her. He stood up with his eyes shining and when she looked at him, it was as if they were the only thing that was important to her. Her smile grew to rival his and within seconds they were wrapped up in each other’s arms. As much as I hated to admit it, they were a cute couple and they looked completely in love. But who’s to say that he isn’t acting?

Maybe I’m being pessimistic, or maybe I’m just being cautious. Hey Skye, he greeted me. Are you coming over?

What? Was he talking to me? Hey, Andrew. Yeah I’ll be there now, I said.

Cool.

Yeah, totally cool, but I still don’t trust you, I thought. I smiled and walked over.

So what do you wanna eat? Katy asked me, while she thumbed through the menu of some Chinese restaurant.

Thai. Anything with veggies and noodles. Preferably chicken strips, I said bored.

Okay, Thai for Skye, Andrew said. Hey! It rhymes!

I smiled. Why was he suddenly being nice to me? He usually ignored me and worked for us, so why is he nice now? That was baffling to me!

Kat, what do you want to eat, babe? he asked.

She turned to him with a small smile, I don’t know. There are so many things!

Relax, look at the menu and order anything you want, or order everything you want, he told her placating while playing with a blondee lock.

Or you can choose for me, she said and batted her eyes.

He smirked his trademark bad boy smirk. You know that look gets you anything you want! That’s playing dirty babe!

She laughed and leaned over to kiss his cheek. I had to resist the urge to get out of there. I turned to face the other way and watched people pass by as my friend was sucked up in her boyfriend.

A couple of minutes went by with the two of them still doing that stare in the eye thing, when I felt as if I was being watched. It was so silly, but it sent shivers down my back. This is a mall, obviously people watch other people and that was exactly what I was doing! I took no note of it and continued my assessment of people.

When I finally had enough of being ignored by Katy, I turned around and they were deeply immersed in kissing one another’s face off! Katy, I’m going. I’ll speak to you… . whenever I get the chance! I said and walked off. The feeling of being watched followed me, until I reached my home. Somehow that safety of being at home enshrouded me.

Chapter Two

W hen I walked inside I had the shock of my life. Martha was at the end of the passage way waiting for me with her arms wide open.

Maaaarthaaaaa! I screamed as I ran to her, my bag dropping to the floor without me noticing. Her wide arms enveloped me and it felt like coming home, to a home where I was loved.

Shh, I’m here now, she said wiping my cheeks. Why would—oh, tears were streaming down my face and sobs wrecked through my body. I guess I really missed my mum. My dad sent Martha on a paid vacation for the last two years. After my mum was buried, dad buried himself in the study and never came out for a week. When he did, he told Martha she could have paid leave until he called her again. Martha didn’t want to, knowing that I would be losing two mothers in a space of two weeks, and she was right. My life was empty, but if Ryan Lambert spoke, it was law. No arguments, nothing, you just had to agree.

Martha, I’ve missed you so much! I sobbed and hugged her rounded frame with her peppered hair.

I know my baby; I’ve missed you so much! We have a lot to catch up— she was interrupted by my father.

Moira, we need to talk, please, he said tonelessly.

It scared me because he never calls me Moira, only when I got into trouble. I wiped my tears and made my way to the living room. On the single-seater sofa sat a huge man who looked like he was about twenty-five or so with ebony hair. He was built like a bodyguard or something in that range. He freaked me out. What was he doing here? Who was he?

I sat on the three-seater next to my dad.

Skye, this is Steve Levine. He is your chauffeur. And since you know that Martha is back, she will resume her role as housekeeper and caretaker of this place. I know that you will have no problem following her orders, but please, don’t be difficult on Steve. His tone was lifeless. I guess he was still suffering from mum’s loss.

Dad, why will I need a chauffeur? You gave me my own car! I don’t need a babysitter! You’re going to be wasting poor Steve’s time. I’m sure he has better things to do! I was whining a bit.

I didn’t see the point of me having a really good car sitting in the garage and having a chauffeur. I was going to seem like a rich brat. It’s true that I am rich, but only because I’ve inherited from both my grandfathers and my dad has his own business, then there is the family business on the Lambert side and my maternal grandfather’s farm and his share in the mining industry. My father’s father also has his own hotel, so yes, in a way I was really rich. But it is not in my nature to brag or boast or act likes a stuck up cow.

Skye, don’t argue me on this please. It’s for my own peace of mind. Please. I have to go overseas for a year, he explained hastily.

A year? One whole year dad? So it’s not enough mum left me? Now you need to go too? So that’s why Martha returned! I said and the tears streamed down my face again, for the second time in ten minutes. News flash dad, you’re not the only one who misses her! I do too! Now I lose another parent! Good bye dad, have a safe trip!

I was hurting and this was a stab wound to a bullet wound with salt rubbed over. I ran my way up to the third floor where my room was and slammed the door. I said I wasn’t flashy, but I rarely threw tantrums. It’s been almost ten years since my last one, but today everything was getting to me.

It was like suddenly the Earth wants payback from me. Today was the day that everyone decided, ‘Hey, let’s screw up Skye’s life. She just seemed to be making it, let’s turn it up’. I threw myself on my bed and immersed myself in my dark pillows, taking comfort in their softness. That night, I cried myself to sleep.

When I woke up the next morning, my dad sat next to me with a tray in his hand. He has a sheepish smile. I gave a weak smile. Morning, I said softly.

Morning pumpkin. I guess I owe you an apology. I know losing your mum was hard on you, much harder than it was on me, but I never took the time to comfort you. I love you Skye, a lot. And I know over these last two years you’ve made sure everything was perfect for me, but I never gave you the time, comfort and support you needed. I’m really sorry. I realize now that you needed a dad when you lost your mum, and instead I became a workaholic to hide my pain, that it didn’t register that you were in pain too. I’m sorry I was so selfish my pumpkin. I’m sorry that I let you down so badly. I know now that what I did was unforgivable, as a dad you should have come first, not me or my pain. Honestly, my sweetie, if I could cancel this trip, I would, but it is an expansion of our company to make it an international brand. I really can’t cancel, but you’ve got this entire week with me, he said almost pleadingly.

This was the longest speech my dad made in two years! I looked down at the tray in his hands. There was apple juice, heart-shaped waffles with ice cream and pecan nuts and fresh fruit on the side. Also, next to the cutlery was a red rose from the garden. He noticed my gaze on the tray. I did it myself, no help, he said proudly.

I grabbed my dad; I missed having him like this. I forgive you dad! How could I not? I said and a few tears escaped.

He smiled and hugged me tighter, after he place the breakfast on my bed. Shhh, my pumpkin. I can’t undo what I’ve done, but I will make it up to you. Starting today, let’s go do your shopping, he said with a small smile. I suppose he was remembering how difficult it was to walk from shop to shop, holding countless bags and then still having to give an opinion.

You don’t have to do that, dad, I already went clothes shopping yesterday, I said and let go of him.

He had a sheepish smirk and said, Thank God!

I laughed. But you still need stationery and a new bag, not to mention your uniform, he said, proud that he still remembered something.

Let’s go then… right after I eat this yummy breakfast and have a shower, I said.

Deal, at 11 o’clock I’ll meet you at the stairs, he said. He stood up and smiled down at me before leaving my room.

I started with my breakfast and ate it hurriedly when I saw it was already 10:15 am. Only forty-five minutes to get done? Okay, challenge accepted. I wolfed down the rest of my breakfast and raced to my bathroom to get done.

Half an hour later, I was just applying lip-gloss and eyeliner before leaving my room. At the foot of my stairs, my dad stood in his dark jeans and blue shirt. I haven’t seen my dad dress casual since he usually works over the weekends as well. Nice look dad didn’t know you still had it! I joked as I walked down.

He chuckled. That’s new, he commented looking at my outfit.

I nodded. Yeah, I got it yesterday. I was wearing the dark rinse ripped jeans and the purple shirt with silver buttons and the overflowing collar.

I’m surprised you made it before the allotted time, he said as I reached the bottom. Your mother never could.

Yeah, well, I learned from mum never to make you wait. She only did it because she liked it when you became anxious, I teased.

You know, I’ve never told you, but you’re just like your mum. You’re caring, sweet, and compassionate and you still take care of me, despite me not being a good dad. I love you pumpkin. He was tearing up again.

I hugged him. Don’t cry please dad. Let’s just not have an emotional day. Today let it only be you and I, and happiness. Please, I begged.

As you wish pumpkin. Your wish is my command.

* * *

Skye! Dad yelled from across the shop. I blushed with all the stares and glares I received. What do you think about this dress?

I speed-walked to him. Dad! Please don’t yell like that! People are looking at me! I whispered angrily. Truth was, I wasn’t really angry. I just didn’t like attention, but today was my day with my dad and no one was spoiling it. I looked at the dress; it was a long flowing type of dress, perfect for an evening function. It was midnight purple with diamond framing the heart neckline, a black band wrapped around the middle and billowing arms. In all honesty, I loved the dress. It was so princess-like. Dad, I think you chose the perfect dress! I love it! I gushed.

He beamed with pride. Great, now let’s get the accessories!

We walked to the register to pay, and once the lady placed my dress in my bag, she offered to have it delivered. It’s best if we deliver it, so the guarantee is valid, she said in a nasal, sounding posh voice. I gave her a fake smile and said thanks before leaving. I had to get out of there before I slapped her. She was acting high and mighty, but she worked at an evening wear shop.

Relax, pumpkin. She doesn’t know who we are, or else we would have received royal treatment. He grinned. Let’s go to that jewellery store you love so much!

We walked to the store and while I browsed, my dad was speaking to the saleswoman behind the counter. She was smiling broadly and it made me curious. Hi, I said as I walked over.

Miss Lambert, you’re so lucky to have a dad that has such good style! she said with a huge smile. Take a look at these, she said waving to three sets of diamond jewellery place on the table. One was flower shaped, earrings, bracelet, necklace and a ring. The next was raindrops—a complete set, and the last was round, more suitable to the diamond look.

Skye, which do you want? my dad asked me softly.

I don’t know, they’re all so beautiful, my voice came out softly.

Which is your favourite?

I think the circular one… .

That’s a good choice, Miss Lambert, the saleslady interjected.

I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. Apparently, she knew who my dad was, or he told her. She was just glad that she was about to get a big commission.

Thanks, that will be all, my dad said effectively dismissing her to wrap it all up.

Twenty minutes later, we were sitting in one of those cheesy photo booths people go to take photos of themselves either with their friends or their boyfriend or girlfriend. My dad insisted on us having a photo taken, and because it was our ‘happy’ day, I gave in. We took four strips of photos. One strip entirely of weird faces, the next was of us having our arms around the other, me kissing his cheek and one silly pose. The last two was formal and strict as we tried to hide our smirks and grins.

Two strips for me, two for you, dad said. Which do you want?

I picked the strict one and the more emotional one. Okay, now we can go home, I said tiredly.

As we drove home, dad stopped at Häagen-Dazs, knowing how much I loved their Cookies and Cream and their Midnight Chocolate Cookies. He picked up both flavours and placed an order for them to drop it off at our place later in the week. Here you go, two scoops of your favourites and their tubs, he said handing me my cone and placing their tubs in the back seat.

I kissed his cheek. I love you daddy! I squealed like a five year old, next I’ll be talking about boys having cooties. I shook my head at myself.

Look Skye, as a dad, I have to broach this topic as uncomfortable as it is. I know Martha is like a mum to you, but she isn’t your biological parent. I know this is a talk you should have with your mum, but it is now my place to do it. I know that you had a boyfriend and that you will have again, but I don’t want you getting pregnant before you are married, is that clear? I am not going to negotiate on that, because I will cut of all money you receive. From both grandparents included, because I know that they won’t want a granddaughter to shame them in that way. They love you and will not accept that.

Geez, dad, have some faith in me! I won’t just go around sleeping because you aren’t here! I was embarrassed. What did my dad think of me? I wasn’t some cheap slut! I have brains, and I use them too!

He let out a laugh. Glad you feel that way! But you can have parties, I don’t mind, just no grandchildren for me. Understood?

I nodded eagerly. If this will shut him, I’ll agree.

Good! Now, how would you feel about joining me for supper with a client tonight? he asked with small smile.

I nodded, despite hating how boring those were. After the day we had, I couldn’t bear to hurt him. He helped me carry all my stationery and everything else he bought me upstairs to my room.

Next time, we will use the elevator, Skye, he moaned rubbing his back.

I laughed. Sure!

Get yourself ready missy, we are leaving in three hours, he mock scolded, but the smile on his lips destroyed it all.

Chapter Three

I was sitting on the vanity stool in front of the mirror in my room while Martha was curling my hair to add royal-like curls. The restaurant we were going to wants formal wear all the time, so Martha insisted that I wear my purple dress that we bought today—with the accessories. I knew better than to argue with her.

After my luxurious shower, I dried off and did the necessities before wrapping myself up in a robe, so that Martha could do my hair. When she was done, I applied my make-up, doing smoky eyes with a purple effect, eyeliner and my lip-gloss. It didn’t matter who I was to see, I always stick to my basic make-up. No foundation, no blush and no lipstick. As I slid the dress on, I called Martha to see how I looked.

My! You look beautiful! Here, just put on this jewellery set and you’ll be the most princess-like ever. You are beautiful, she said in a soft voice.

Thank you, I said with a blush before I put on the jewellery.

That’s my beauty, Martha said, echoing words my mum would use on me when I looked pretty. I smiled and hugged her.

"Martha! I missed you so much! Tomorrow we must speak!" I demanded.

She chuckled. Yes, all of Sunday is yours. Now off you go, before your father screams.

I ran down the stairs as fast as I could, because it was already 19:30 and my dad hated to be late. As I descended, my father hooked his right arm out, and like an Old English lady, I accepted.

May I say you look splendid Miss Lambert? my dad teased in an English accent.

I laughed. Yes Sir, you may. Okay, you don’t really have to tease me any further, I said before he could carry on.

He laughed. I wasn’t teasing Skye, you do look beautiful. Don’t ever doubt that.

I blushed and he led me to his black Mercedes that had Steve in the driver seat while he took the back seat with me.

Uhm, Steve, could you please switch on the radio? I asked nervously.

He laughed. Sure, any preferences?

Yeah, no rap, anything—wait, no country either, I said with a laugh, masking my nervousness. Suddenly, Linkin Park blasted through the speakers and I couldn’t help but sing along.

SKYE! my dad yelled.

I turned red, I didn’t know I got that loud.

Steve wants to be able to hear after this, you know? he teased.

Sorry, I said to Steve.

He guffawed. Who knew that tiny body had a set of lungs like that? And for looking like a princess, I never imagined you’d like rock!

I turned even redder. Well, I find them comforting—it’s weird I know, but somehow when they turn vulgar, I just love it. It’s soothing.

I know what you mean, it’s like their voices, however loud, just has a calming effect, Steve agreed with me. Shocking, I didn’t even peg him as someone who would even listen to music. Let alone know about Linkin Park.

So you have their CD’s? I asked.

Yeah, every single one!

Me too!

We spent the rest of the ride swapping music preferences and debating which CD was better than the other, both of us completely oblivious to my father’s unease. This wasn’t his forte, I suppose. The only music he would know is from the dinosaur era.

Anyway, Skye, here we are. So we’ll continue this on the way back, Steve said as he stopped the car in front of the door of the fancy restaurant.

No! Absolutely not! my dad huffed. I shot Steve a look, who winked at me, and then simultaneously we burst out in a fir of giggles.

Okay, we won’t, dad. But let’s go, I said and pushed my dad out of the car. Thanks Steve, it was nice to get to know you a little, I added before I hopped out and shut the door.

My dad stretched his hand out and once I hooked my arm on his, we entered the restaurant. The lady at the front desk wanted to know if we had an appointment. Yes, a booking for Mr Lambert and guests, my dad said in a formal voice. I smiled at her.

She checked her book, confirmed what he said before leading us to a table in a secluded area. Is this suitable enough for you Mr Lambert? Or would you prefer another accommodation? she asked with a smile.

No, thank you, this is just right, he said with a curt nod.

Actually, this is where Mr Lambert and his guest are to be seated at, a deep voice said from behind me. I said that they were my guests of the evening Mandy, he continued. The girl named Mandy, cowered.

I’m sorry, she said and hurried away.

My dad turned and faced the man, which in turn turned me as well. My mouth nearly dropped open, but being my father’s daughter, I kept it closed. I expected a night of old, rich men, but that—that was a surprise. This guy was hugely built, bigger than Steve even. He had long brown-blondee hair that touched the tips of his blazer collar. His grey-blue eyes were shining and he had a huge smile as he greeted my dad. His black blazer was a tight fit, hugging every muscle contour line, and the white shirt might as well not have been there; it showed every line of his well-defined eight-pack.

Mr Lambert, he greeted, stretching out his well-formed arm, as he stood up and reached over the table.

Mr Thomas, my dad returned and gestured to me. My daughter, Moira.

I resisted the urge to cringe at the use of my first name. He knew how much I hated it, so I didn’t understand why he used it.

Hello, I said meekly.

His gaze shifted to me and I felt like a butterfly pinned beneath his stare. His look was detached at first, and then bewildered which quickly slipped into a fake mask as he said, Pleased to meet you.

I turned away for the first time since laying eyes on him and just noticed who sat next to him with a look of pure misery. Andrew?? I asked surprised.

You’re here? I would never have expected you to be here, he said with a chuckle.

Mr Thomas’ head snapped in our direction.

Yeah, well, I didn’t expect you either!

I guess I still owe you a meal on account of yesterday, hey? he said with a grin.

Why don’t we let Mr Lambert and his daughter sit before we speak any further? Mr Thomas asked in a cold tone.

Oh yes! How rude of me! Please sit, Andrew said to my father and me.

My father pulled out my seat and I sat. Thanks, dad, I said with a smile.

He nodded. Oh, and Mr Thomas, do call me Ryan. There is no need to be formal, my dad said.

In that case, my name is Thorian. And this is Andrew, my best friend’s brother. A trusted friend of mine, Mr Thomas said.

I shifted my gaze back to Thorian. He looked about a year or two older than me, but his voice carried a lot of authority. It had a menacing edge that said mess with me and you’re dead.

So, how do you know my daughter, Andrew? my dad asked.

He is dating Katy, dad, you remember I told you? I said hastily.

My dad laughed. Oh! Now I remember! But you never mentioned his name. How was I supposed to know?

There were times when we shared meals and had a normal conversation like a normal family. That was when I would speak to my dad and complain about just school issues and tell him about all Katy and I would do. Over one supper, I spoke to him about how my idiot boyfriend dumped me for Andrew. His reply was, I think you’re jealous, honey.

You look beautiful, if I may be so bold to say so Miss Moira, Thorian said.

I flushed. Thank you, I said. I didn’t even notice him call me Moira.

Yeah, I agree, Andrew said.

Thanks don’t let Katy hear that, I teased. I knew she wouldn’t have a problem, but what would shock her is that I was having a civil conversation with him.

A waiter appeared and offered us menus. We studied them in silence for about two minutes before Thorian spoke. Is everyone ready with their drink orders?

A murmur of yeses soon followed before he called the immaculately dress waiter forward. The waiter appeared by his side, Yes, sir?

We will have one bottle white champagne, he said to the waiter, before turning to Andrew. What do you want? he asked.

Wine is fine with me, he answered.

Fine? He was seventeen! He shouldn’t even be drinking! I was shocked.

Ryan? Thorian called.

No, the wine will suffice, nothing else. Thank you, my dad said.

Miss Lambert? Anything for you? Thorian asked kindly.

Uh, yes, please. A lemon and passion fruit juice please, I answered.

He shot me a white smile and then turned to the waiter who had his attention on me. A quick look at Thorian told me he noticed it as well. His face was pulled tight in an upset look. Thank you, that will be all, Thorian said in a clipped tone.

The waiter snapped his attention back to Thorian gave a curt nod and scurried away. Thorian turned his attention to my dad, and they began speaking about some political issues. I zoned out once Andrew joined in. Discreetly, I pulled out my phone to text Katy. After I sent the message, I put it on vibrate.

Skye! my dad said with a disapproving glare. I shrugged.

Suddenly, the waiter appeared and saved me from a lecture as he put my glass down in front of me. Thank you, I said as sweetly as I could manage.

He gave me a flirty grin as he walked over to Thorian and set down the champagne with the three accompanying glasses in front of each man. They all nodded and he backed away.

So, Miss Lambert, how does Andrew behave in school? Are you even attending the same school he does? Thorian asked.

I looked at Andrew before answering. His face was flushed. My name is Skye; I’d appreciate it if you would address me as that, please. As for your question regarding Andrew, I don’t know much about his behaviour as such, because we do not share any classes together. But I do know that he has nearly all the girl’s attention on him, all the time. Towards the end I became a bit bitter as I recalled how idiotic the girls behaved around him. If the saw Thorian, how would they react? It was obvious that Thorian is better looking than Andrew.

Okay, Skye, it is, Thorian said with a smirk. He was obviously mocking me. I rolled my eyes. Here comes the jerk, I thought to myself. So why don’t you tell us how he met Katy, I believe you said her name was?

I’m not sure, I think Andrew would be the most suited to tell us this, I said as politely as I could.

Thorian laughed at me, and I narrowed my eyes. Go on then, Andrew, tell us your story, Thorian said.

Andrew turned blood red and then began his tale, while I zoned out. I was watching Thorian while he listened to Andrew talk about his love for Katy. I smiled and then noticed Thorian was looking straight at me. Immediately, I looked down with flushed cheeks again.

Yet, I still felt his eyes on me.

And I’ve got a secret! Andrew said louder, calling both, mine and Thorian’s attention to him. I think I wanna marry Katy!

I gasped. How could he? He barely knows her! Congratulations! I was just telling Skye today that if she wants to make me a grandfather, I want her married first, my dad said with a happy grin.

So can I ask for her hand in marriage right now, Ryan? Thorian asked with a straight face. A look that said he was completely serious.

My mouth hung open, how can he just ask to marry me if he never even spoke to me? I was in shock. Everyone else at the table seemed to be in shock too. My dad looked bewildered, until Thorian guffawed.

I let out a sigh of relief. Thank God he turned into a jerk, that’s something I could handle. Everything is funny for a jerk. He popped open the bottle of champagne and poured some into each of the three glasses. Here, relax Ryan. I was seriously joking around, he said with an empty grin as he passed my father the glass. Drew, here’s yours.

I looked down and pulled my juice closer to me. I took small sips, trying to pass the time. I reached for the menu and began studying it studiously. Suddenly the waiter appeared. May I get you anything else? he inquired politely.

Yes, bring us some Risotto, bread soup and Bruschetta. Please, he told the waiter before turning to me. Would you like to add anything?

I shook my head. No thank you, I told the waiter with a smile. Thorian frowned, but said nothing.

For the next half an hour, I listened to the men talk. I barely paid attention my head was swimming with confusion. How could Andrew plan on marrying Katy? They’ve only been together for four months. They needed more time together.

May I suggest that you go through the menu and decide upon the main course, so that when the starters are finished you may delve straight into mains? the waiter asked disturbing my train of thought. He then put a side plate and soup bowl in front of each of us, with the needed cutlery, before he went away.

We all nodded and went through the menu. A mere five minutes later, the waiter appeared with the starters. He set the three plates in the centre. Uhm, excuse me? I’ve decided on what I’d like to have, I said to the waiter just as he was about to turn.

He smiled and turned around. And that will be?

A mushroom ravioli, please. With extra mushrooms, I said.

Of course. He turned to my dad. Sir, have you decided yet? Or must I come back after a few minutes?

No, no! I will have the sausage ragu and reg pasta, dad said to the waiter.

And give me your lasagne pot, Thorian said, interrupting the guy before he even had a chance to speak. What was wrong with Thorian? Why does he act so damn superior?

I’ll have the agnolotti with creamy pesto chicken, Andrew said and thus dismissing the waiter. These guys have issues with power.

As he walked away, Thorian sent a glare in his direction. Could you pass me the bread soup please? Andrew asked Thorian with a sigh. Thorian paid him no attention, so I stretched over and handed him the huge bowl. He smirked. Thanks Skye, he said.

I just nodded; I was in no mood to joke around anymore. I just wanted to go home and curl up in my bed. Forgetting that I met a sexy man that has the same attitude Andrew does. How can he allow such a cocky attitude spoil his handsome features?

A knowing smirk graced his face as he caught me staring. I looked down as the blood rushed to my cheeks. He nudged my foot with his under the table and I looked up to meet his smirk and the excitement in his eyes. I glowered. Like what you see? he mouthed to me.

I looked at my dad and noticed he was too busy enjoying the risotto to notice anything around him. Turning back to Thorian, I shook my head.

He frowned. Why? he mouthed again. I just shook my head.

Excuse me, I said aloud and stood to go to the bathrooms.

Let me escort you, Thorian said, trying to be gentlemanly in front of my dad, but I knew his tricks.

I saw my dad look up. He didn’t say anything though. No thank you, I’ll be fine, I said stubbornly.

A lady never goes alone to the bathroom and since there is no other female company here, I feel obliged to walk you.

I’ll be fine! I said again. I turned around and started walking away. Just as I passed two tables I felt a hand on mine. There was a shock of electricity. I spun around with my fist ready in case, but it was just Thorian. What do you want? I demanded.

I meant what I said. He shrugged.

Get your paws off me! I don’t need to be babysat okay?

He let out a laugh. "I’m not babysitting you. I’m escorting you, like a