 
## **Contents**

Dedication

CHAPTER ONE New home

CHAPTER TWO First Day

CHAPTER THREE Disturbed

CHAPTER FOUR Sleeping Arrangements

CHAPTER FIVE Terror

CHAPTER SIX Friends

CHAPTER SEVEN A Night Out

CHAPTER EIGHT Alex

CHAPTER NINE Anger

CHAPTER TEN Justice

CHAPTER ELEVEN Life

CHAPTER TWELVE Eye Opener

CHAPTER THIRTEEN Moving Up

CHAPTER FOURTEEN Unseen Things

CHAPTER FIFTEEN Charity

CHAPTER SIXTEEN Stars

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN Desires

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN Escape

CHAPTER NINETEEN A Proper Discussion

CHAPTER TWENTY Reality Check

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE Life Goes On

Thank you to those who told me to keep writing.

CHAPTER ONE

New home

"I think that's everything," Gemma smiled as they picked up the last cartons from the moving truck.

"Thank God! I was thinking we would never get finished," Sophia muttered tiredly. They took the boxes into the house, and Sophia fell onto the couch.

"I can take the moving truck back?" Fred asked from his perch on the chair.

"Yes," Sophia grumbled. "You could have helped you know."

"I could have, but I just got here. You had two boxes left." Fred said, "We can drop off the truck and head home."

Gemma gave him a warm smile, "Thanks for all your help, Fred." He had helped with the heavier lifting the day prior.

Fred went over to the couch, offering Sophia a hand. She took it, and he pulled her stand. "Come on babe, we should let Gemma get settled in her new home."

"Call me if you need anything, Gem." Sophia said as they headed to the door.

"I will, Soph, I think I can handle this part on my own." She walked over to let Alex out of his kennel. She had left him in it, afraid he might run out the door because they were in an unknown place and they couldn't lock the fence gate because of the moving truck. "I need to take Alex out, anyway."

They said their goodbyes and shut the door behind them. Gemma drew a deep breath. Alex was exploring the house, sniffing everything. She sat down and grabbing her cell phone ordered a pizza. She took Alex out and ate the pizza before unpacking her most prized possessions. The sheer amount of drawing notebooks and pencils was astounding, but it was her craft that kept her sane. She realized she would need everything in place before she'd be able to concentrate on her art. She rolled up her sleeves and got to work.

The next morning was bright and cheerful as Gemma looked out her kitchen window with her coffee. She strapped on her running shoes, and Alex brought her his leash. Sighing, she set the coffee down and stretched her sore body. The run would be short today after all that moving. She put her ear-buds in before leaning down to attach the leash to Alex. She stepped outside the house, stopping to do a few more stretches before she set off at a quick pace toward the park that was at the end of the block. The park for Alex was one of the principal reasons she had chose to rent here. The running trails were a bonus for her.

Once at the park, she was warmed enough to take off her light running jacket and tie it around her waist. She and Alex took off at a leisurely pace. The trail was unfamiliar, and she didn't want to risk injury. She saw a few others doing as she was and they seemed friendly enough, giving her nod as they concentrated on their runs.

She rounded a corner when Alex saw a squirrel and started pulling. "Alex no!" She ran into someone. She bounced back, hitting the ground, and let go of the leash. Dazed, but keeping her wits about her she apologized to the man. "I'm so sorry. He saw a squirrel. I really need to go after him." The man nodded in understanding as she took off trying to trace Alex's path.

She found him by the pond next to an elderly old man who was feeding the ducks cracked corn. Alex's entrance had scared them all away. "I'm so sorry he bothered you."

The man smiled at her, "He's been a perfectly friendly dog. I thought someone would be along for him. What's his name?"

"Right now it should be Trouble," Gemma said wryly with amusement, as Alex wagged his tail at her, "his name is Alexander Von Wigglebottom."

"That's a mouthful," the man chuckled, "I'm Richard nice to meet you Miss?"

"Gemma," She offered, "and you can call him Alex for short."

"Meeting you and Alex is a pleasant surprise on this lovely day." Richard said. "You are new to the area?" He handed her Alex's leash.

"Yes, we just moved in nearby."

"I hope to see more of you and Alex in the future." Richard said rising from his bench. He tipped his hat, "Have a lovely day, Gemma."

"This is where you ran off to," A voice behind her said as Richard walked away. Gemma turned around to see a rather handsome man, who appeared to be in his late twenties or early thirties, walking toward her. "I see you found him."

Gemma recognized him as the poor guy she had run into. She gave him a slight smile, "I did. I apologize again for running into you."

He smiled, and his eyes crinkled with humor. "I think you got the worst of it, you're the one who ended up on the ground. I wanted to make sure you were all right." His gaze roved over her body appreciatively. She wore sports bra and running shorts that left her midriff bare. He could tell she worked enough to keep herself in shape. Her muscles were defined but not as much as a gym rat. Her hair was jet black as it fell in disarray around her face the ends were strategically painted in a copper color.

"I appreciate you checking up on me. As you can see, I'm fine." Gemma replied, reaching to untie her jacket before slipping it back on. She gripped the Alex's leash a bit tighter. "I should go before he causes anymore trouble today." She turned and walked away.

He realized as she walked away he was still holding the hair-tie he had found on the ground. He thought about going after her to return it but shook his head. She was nervous around him.

CHAPTER TWO

First Day

Gemma walked into the huge building office building downtown. It was within walking distance of her home a few blocks if the weather was terrible she could drive or take public transit but she preferred the walk. She walked to the front desk and introduced herself. The receptionist glanced at her and waved her to the side. "Please wait in the lobby. Mr. Fuller will be here shortly. He is your new boss."

"Thank you," Gemma said as she stepped away.

In a few minutes, an older gentleman in a suit stepped toward her. "Miss Plumb?"

Gemma gave the man a smile, "Yes..."

"I'm Mr. Fuller. This way please and we'll get you a key card and your office situated. I'll also explain your duties."

Gemma immediately felt comfortable with the older man. They spoke of her duties, which were normal for an executive assistant. She was to support and assist with his daily responsibilities. This included basic clerical duties such as answering phones, taking messages, welcoming visitors, scheduling meetings, and making travel arrangements. He admitted he might ask her to pick a personal gift for someone from time to time.

They visited personnel where they added her to the system and gave her a key card. Then Mr. Fuller took her to her office. "Feel free to change the arrangement to suit your needs. You won't have any duties until after lunch."

Gemma turned to thank the man, but voice interrupted her. "Fuller is that your new executive assistant?" The owner of the voice soon walked into the doorway. Crap! It was that guy that Gemma had run into in the park.

"Yes, this is Miss Plumb." Mr. Fuller said taking charge of introductions. "Miss Plumb, this is Mr. Saxe the CEO of Thomas Unlimited."

His gaze flickered for a moment in recognition, which he quickly schooled. "It's a pleasure to meet you Miss Plumb." Mr. Saxe held out his hand for her shake it.

"Likewise," Gemma said reaching for his hand. She saw the disconnect and went along with it. It was better that way anyhow.

"I'll see you after lunch, Miss Plumb." Both men walked out of the doorway. Gemma could hear them chatting about their latest project as they headed back to Mr. Fuller's office. She shut the door and breathed a sigh of relief.

By the time she got her office in order, it was lunchtime. She noted on the walk to the office there was an Italian restaurant nearby. She collected her clutch and her blazer, which she had draped over the chair, and headed out.

Mr. Fuller was true to his word, and after lunch she was hard at work. Near the end of a busy but productive afternoon, she knocked on Mr. Fuller's door. "Come in."

"I've brought you the files you wanted." Gemma said. He gestured to the clean side of his desk absentmindedly. Worry puckered his forehead.

"Is there something I can do?" She asked.

"I don't know, but another set of eyes is always helpful," He replied, gesturing for her to come look at his screen.

She walked around the desk and saw the issue. There was a discrepancy of a couple thousand dollars on the spreadsheet. "Mr. Fuller, what kind of printer paper does the human resources department use?"

"I'm not sure. Why do you ask?" He looked at her curiously.

"I noticed when we set up payroll they were using thirty-pound. Most companies use twenty to twenty-four pound for documents that don't need to be printed on both sides. One second..." She hurried to her office. She collected her copies of her paperwork from the accounting department and rushed back to his office.

"Here, feel the difference," she grabbed her papers and one of his spreadsheets that was on the desk. Mr. Fuller took the paper and nodded. "Thirty pound is thicker and you can print on both sides without it bleeding through." Gemma explained.

"I can't imagine it would cause that much of a discrepancy though." He said thoughtfully.

"If they order for the department for a year at a time, they probably get a discount but if they accidentally ordered the wrong paper, it would cost a lot." Gemma stated.

Mr. Fuller picked up the phone. "Nancy, did you order paper for the year for the human resources department?"

"Yes sir, It came in last week." Nancy said.

"What did you order?" He asked.

"The usual paper," Nancy replied.

"Nancy, please go check, I think there may have been a mistake." Mr. Fuller said.

"Yes, sir." Nancy cut the call.

"The shareholders want to nix the human resources and outsource. I've been trying to keep that from happening. Nancy and I grew up in the same neighborhood together." He explained. "This might tip the scales in the shareholder's side."

Gemma's mind ran. "Perhaps you could tell the shareholders that you are trying a new format for things to reduce paper waste by using the front and back."

"I don't think..." he started to say before turning to look at her. "You know that's not a terrible idea."

CHAPTER THREE

Disturbed

It was a sunny Saturday morning and Gemma was at the park with Alex. They had spent some time with Richard before heading to the running trail. Gemma was halfway through her run when a person she never wanted to see again stepped directly into her path. For a moment she considered running around him, but she knew he would just follow and create a scene. So she stopped, "Luke, what do you want?" Her voice was cold detached as if he weren't a person.

"Is that any way to greet me?" He said ignoring her obvious dislike. "After all, it's been months since I've seen you. Not even a hug."

"Not long enough." Gemma said. A couple runners came through, giving them a curious glance. "What do you want?"

"Come home." Luke cajoled, "You know you can't live without me."

"I am living just fine without you." Gemma said, "I don't want you. I don't need you. Just leave." She grabbed Alex's leash tighter and walked away.

"Gemma your resistance is pissing me off." Luke growled stepping toward her. "I know what's best for you."

"Like, was it in my best interest you fucked everything you could charm the pants off of." Gemma retorted, "Or perhaps it was in my best interest that you lied to me about it. You are a skilled liar. The best I've ever met."

"You had no right to leave." He shouted.

"New flash." Gemma hissed, "You might want to get over yourself, because I have." Alex growled and Luke lunged at her. Gemma took off running with Alex. She was frightened now, she knew he was possessive, but this was different. She ran toward the center of the park where people had gathered. There was safety in numbers.

Gemma expected he would try to get her back at some point. But she knew she could outrun him Luke wasn't into fitness. As she entered the clearing near the center of the park she heard footsteps behind her. Frightened that perhaps Luke had picked up running since she left. Gemma hastened her speed but someone suddenly grabbed her. She screamed, striking out at the person.

"Hey, Hey, it's okay." A voice she recognized. "Mr. Saxe?" She immediately stopped and looked up at the man holding her.

Luke came barreling toward them a few moments later, huffing. "Who the fuck are you?"

Gemma was grateful that Mr. Saxe had come to her rescue, but he was the CEO of the company she worked for and Luke was making a scene. She face-palmed. "Fuck my life..." she muttered under her breath as more people moved toward them, wanting to see the drama that was unfolding.

She thought she saw the corners of Mr. Saxe's mouth twitch in amusement before he slid an arm possessively around her pulling her flush to him. "I'm her new boyfriend. You interrupted my girl's run. Who are you?" He leaned down as if nuzzling her hair to whisper, "Just play along." She nodded. Alex barked at Luke and ran over to Gemma.

"Well, that's news to me I've been checking up on her and never saw her with any man. In fact, she refused to dance with anyone when she went out." Luke said knowingly. "She's living her normal boring existence with her dog and stupid drawings."

Gemma bristled in response, but before she could retort. Mr. Saxe's captured her lips. She gasped in surprise. He took advantage of it, plundering her mouth. She was breathless when he pulled away. "Come on, Gemma. Let's go home."

Luke glared at the two of them never taking his eyes off Gemma. Mr. Saxe turned her around and handed her Alex's leash. He placed his hand on the small of her back as he led her through the crowd that gathered. They said nothing on the brief walk to her house.

She unlocked the door and ushered him in, letting Alex off the leash. She walked into the kitchen and started making coffee. Gemma needed to busy herself with something. She didn't know what to think. Luke went after her. Mr. Saxe saved her but then he kissed her in front of everyone. Gemma poured the brew into mugs. "Cream, sugar, or black?" She asked.

"Two creams, one sugar," He said watching her worriedly. Her hands shook as she set the mugs on the table. "Mind telling me what happened?"

Gemma sighed, "Might as well sit somewhere comfortable." She led him to the living room and sat down on the sofa. She grasped the mug with both hands and took a sip. "As I'm sure you realized, Luke is my ex. I knew he might try to convince me to come back because he is possessive. I don't want him back. He's a cheat and a liar. Two things that are deal breakers for me."

"As they should be. He actually tried to have a go at you." Mr. Saxe said giving her a concerned glance.

"That was new. He never was violent before." Gemma admitted. "The fact he has been watching my coming and going has me unnerved. Tomorrow, I'm getting a restraining order."

"An excellent plan," Mr. Saxe replied. "You are right to be worried. He was on the verge of losing control. He only stopped when he saw you with me and I think that drawing a crowd might have played a part in it as well."

"I appreciate you saving me, but..." she blushed. "Was that necessary?"

He chuckled. "It was the most efficient and effective way to diffuse the situation. I think he's still watching you. Can anyone come stay with you?"

Gemma bit her lip, she knew Sophia and Fred had gone to the Mental Rock concert and would not be back until tomorrow afternoon. "My friends went away for the weekend." She explained.

"Okay then, I'll stay with you and take you to file to the paperwork. If he's watching you and he sees you get an order, it might make him think twice about bothering you again." He replied.

Gemma shook her head, "Mr. Saxe, you've already helped me. I will not let my issues dictate your free time."

"It's Will, and I insist." He said. His voice brokered no argument. "Once the restraining order is in place or your friends return, I'll go. If I left you here alone and something else happened, I would feel terrible."

Gemma looked at him and huffed with amusement. "Fine you win, Will, but it will always be Mr. Saxe at the office."

CHAPTER FOUR

Sleeping Arrangements

Gemma showered and slipped into her pajamas. She walked back into the living room. Will was looking through her drawings. She sighed. Her fault for leaving them out, she supposed. He looked up at her. "These are fantastic!" He gestured to the picture of Richard she had drawn. "Why are you working for us?"

"Because my art is for me." She explained. "Besides, I like my job."

"That's good to know, because Mr. Fuller has been raving about you." Will said his gaze meandered over her. She was freshly scrubbed and had pulled her damp tresses into a loose braid that sat at her elbow. It gave her the look that she was much younger than the twenty-five years her bio stated. Her pajamas reminded him of a college co-ed. "I implemented the idea you came up with about the paper. The shareholders barely noticed the couple thousand that it cost, because they felt good about reducing paper waste. They were looking for any reason to ax that entire branch of the company and outsource to Thailand."

"I'm glad I could help," She replied, reaching over to take the sketchbook from him.

"You planning on drawing?" He asked.

"If you don't mind, I will," Gemma said, "It helps when I get upset."

"Sure go ahead," Will said as the doorbell rang. He jumped up to answer it. "I ordered pizza and I had some of my clothing and toiletries delivered along with my car. I hope that's okay."

After everything that happened, Gemma realized she hadn't eaten dinner. "Actually, that's nice thanks." She went to the kitchen to grab some plates before heading back into the living room where she saw Will fingering the remote. "Put on whatever you like."

He found the news channel and they ate their pizza as they watched. Once that was over, he switched it to local football. Gemma picked up her sketchpad and drew, using Will as her subject. She wanted to thank him for his kindness and he seemed to like her drawing... Her pencil worked the page until she had what she thought was a good portrait.

She tore the page off and handed it to him. "Here."

"You captured my likeness perfectly." He said inspecting the drawing. Gemma yawned causing Will to yawn in response."I think we're both tired."

"Yea, let me go get some pillows and blankets." She walked into the hallway and opened the closet, pulling out some linens. "I wasn't planning on having guests so soon, so I don't have a blow up mattress yet. You are too tall to be comfortable on the couch. So I'll take the couch and you can have the bed."

Will gave her a look of dismay, although her consideration was nice... "I'm not kicking you out of your bed. I'll sleep on the floor."

"Seriously?" She asked raising a brow.

Will nodded, "I can't in good conscience take your bed after I basically forced you to let me stay."

She rolled her eyes. "You did, didn't you? We have a few options. I can sleep on the couch and you can have the bed, which you've already rejected." She held out her finger as if counting one. "Or you can sleep on the floor and I sleep in the bed which I've rejected." She held up two fingers. "You could try to take the couch and I take the bed which we both know won't work." A third finger came up. "But there is a fourth option. We share the bed. It would be big enough. I trust you would be a gentleman, after all this." She walked down the hallway toward her bedroom, gesturing for him to follow. She had pointed out the other washroom on their way.

"You're right and that is logical." He said looking into her bedroom. He stepped away as Gemma headed toward the en-suite. By the time he got back from changing into his sleepwear, which consisted of pajama pants and brushing his teeth, he could see she was already in bed, book in hand.

"What are you reading?" Will asked.

"A book on treasure hunting." She lifted the book so he could see the spine. It read 20 Myths Uncovered About Treasure Hunting. He grinned at this bit of information. "You go treasure hunting like in the ocean?"

"That's the number one myth," Gemma explained, "Why does it have to be in the ocean? I can take my metal detector to the park and find treasure."

"Point taken." Will admitted.

She set down the book, "Time for lights out, I suppose. Alex, turn out the light." Much to Will's amazement, the large dog walked over to the light switch, which had a rope tied to it. He grabbed the rope in his mouth and pulled to turn out the light.

"Seems Alex is handy to have around," Will chuckled as he slid further down on the bed to rest his head on the pillow. He had to admit he didn't expect to be this comfortable. Knowing she wasn't expecting anything was liberating. He knew the date he had canceled would ask him to make it up to her. Gemma just wanted to be free to live her life. He could understand that.

CHAPTER FIVE

Terror

Will woke up. He wasn't sure what woke him up at first as he tried to get his bearings. Remembering where he was, he relaxed as the rain pounded outside. Through the window, the sky lit up before the thunder roared. He heard a whimper. Will lifted his head and saw Gemma leaning over the bed, hugging Alex. The dog must be afraid of loud sounds. Thunder crashed again and he saw Gemma shudder. His astonishment was only surpassed by the fact, the dog seemed used to the behavior. He should say something. It would be creepy to watch and have her lift her head and see him watching her.

"Gemma, are you okay?" He asked.

Gemma's head whipped in shock. She sounded perfectly normal when she answered, "Alex doesn't like thunder."

She didn't want to admit it. That was cute. He would play along. "Do you want to let him on the bed?"

"Yea, it would make him feel better." She replied, scooting her body toward Will as he shifted to accommodate the enormous dog. Given the new position had him almost spooning with Gemma. She didn't seem to mind with Alex on the bed. The tension melted from her body as she cuddled the canine. "I'm sorry, we woke you."

"It's no problem," Will yawned. "I've put you out enough and it's obvious you are used to sleeping with Alex."

When Will woke later the sun was up, he found his arm around Gemma as she slept, one arm crossed over his, the other around the dog. She was so vulnerable and adorable he wanted to pull her closer. He knew when that when her eyes opened, they would sparkle green with flecks of sienna and chocolate. She reminded him of someone he once knew, but he wouldn't go there. It was a terrible idea, anyway. She worked at the company and he had been careful to not date where he worked. Will sighed. He would protect her. She had been through a nasty breakup with someone who obviously didn't have her best interests at heart. Besides, he genuinely liked the girl. Lovers were easy to find. Friends were not.

Gemma rolled over and rubbed her eyes. "Morning."

"Morning." Will said as Alex's head popped up. He reached over Gemma to ruffle the dog's ears with a chuckle, "Good morning Alex."

Gemma smiled, amused at his antics. "He needs to go out."

She put on a sweatshirt she pulled from the hook beside the bed and looked at Alex. "Wanna go out?"

The dog jumped down and trotted off into the hallway looking back at her. "Let's go then, Alex." By the time she returned Will had changed clothes and was in the kitchen making coffee.

"You didn't have to make coffee." Gemma said taking a appreciative sniff.

"I figured it was the least. I could do. I'll take you to city hall so you can put in the restraining order." He said.

"I can't take advantage of your kindness." Gemma said. "I can take care of getting the paperwork."

"I insist," Will replied, "Only because he may be watching you still. If it worries you, it's something to be concerned about, you don't seem the type to freak out over nothing."

"You're right." She admitted. "I just wonder if you have better things to do than worry about an employee."

"I'm here, because I want to be here." He replied taking handing her a cup.

"Why do you want to be here?" She asked.

He sighed, knowing he would have to come clean, "I canceled my date this weekend. I didn't want to go and honestly you seem like a person I could be friends with. You don't seem to care about my money or my status. I could use someone like that in my life. So I would like to help you just to help you. I enjoy your company."

"With an argument like that how can I refuse," Gemma smiled. "I haven't met many people since I moved here. My friends Sophia and Fred come around a lot, but they have their own life too."

They filed the paperwork. Gemma breathed a sigh of relief as she and Will walked out of city hall. Will leaned over to Gemma, "You want to grab a burger or something?"

Gemma started to answer, but something stopped her. Her face went pale. Will put his arm around her. "Where is he?" She up-nodded to the left. He glanced in that direction. Will pulled her closer, "It's okay." He turned them around and they walked back into the building. Straight into the police department. "Sit here, I'll be right back." He took the restraining order paperwork out of her hand and walked away.

Will returned a few minutes later. "They are serving him right now they will let me know when he leaves."

"I don't understand," Gemma whispered her voice wobbled, "He was a bit possessive of me but this is crazy."

An officer stepped over to them. "We have done as you asked, Mr. Saxe. Mr. Sweet understands the terms and conditions of the restraining order and he has left the premises."

"Thank you," Will said to the officer, nodding. They walked down the street to Mom and Pop diner. They got settled in a booth and the waitress took their order. "If you don't mind I would like to know more about your relationship with Mr. Sweet."

"I guess that's what friends do, right?" She joked as she swirled cream into her coffee. "I met Luke when I was in high school after my parents died. I thought he was amazing. He treated me like a princess."

Gemma shifted in her seat. "Well, most of the time, as long as I did what he wanted. After my first year at college I couldn't do anything right." She sipped at her coffee.

"He started picking at me constantly. Accused me of cheating on him with professors, co-workers, whoever he could think of. I did everything I could to reassure him. About a year and a half ago, I started receiving texts from other girls giving me details of their encounters. I confronted him with his cheating and he told me it was my fault. So one night while he was out. Sophia helped me pack up and I left."

"How long were you with him?" Will asked.

"From the time I was seventeen to about eight months ago." She answered.

Sophie was waiting at Gemma's apartment by the time they had returned. "Thank goodness you are all right." She gushed, "I should have known that piece of trash wouldn't let you be. You must be Mr. Saxe. Thanks for taking care of my bestie."

"Soph breathe," Gemma teased chuckling. Will smiled in amusement. "Sophia, this is my boss Will. Will, my best friend Sophia."

"I should get back." Will said, as he grabbed his phone. "If anything else happens call me, Okay?" Gemma nodded. He got back into his car and drove away.

Sophie and Gemma walked into the house. "So, Mr. Saxe is a good-looking guy..."

"No, Sophie, number one, he's my boss above my immediate boss, and number 2, I don't want a man. I just want to... be me." Gemma said.

"Okay Gem, I understand, but you have to admit he is good looking." Sophie teased, causing Gemma to roll her eyes.

CHAPTER SIX

Friends

A few weeks later, Sophia and Fred met Gemma at her house. Gemma was collecting her mail when her face screwed up in disgust. "Ugh so gross," She pulled her hand out to find both her hand and her mail covered in raw egg.

"Ew, what happened to your mail?" Sophie asked.

"Kid pranks, this is the second time this week." Gemma answered as she went into the house to grab soapy water and a washcloth.

"Did they do it a couple times last week?" Fred asked.

"Yea," Gemma wrinkled her nose in distaste.

"I'd get a couple security cameras," Fred offered.

"I probably should but I don't want to get some kids in trouble for acting like kids." Gemma replied, "if it gets any worse I will."

"Well, I'm looking forward to the shopping for the charity event Will asked you to go to," Sophia said grabbing an extra washcloth. "Are you sure you don't want to date him?"

"No," Gemma said exasperated. "Will only asked me because it's for work. His assistant is unavailable and he didn't want to take a date."

"Will's revolving door of women has slowed a bit since you met." Sophia teased.

"I know nothing about his social life, except what he choses to tell me." She stated. "I don't ask either cause it's none of my business. It's just nice having someone go treasure hunting with me."

"They write him about in the social column, you know. He's always dating this model or socialite. I don't think he's stayed with anyone more than a week or two after his wife died." Sophia said thoughtfully.

"Again, none of my business." Gemma reiterated.

"Fine," Sophia said rolling her eyes, "you're a party pooper."

"I don't know," Fred piped up. "It's nice to have a friend with the same interests. We were friends for years before we coupled up."

"What do we want to do tonight?" Gemma asked as she tried to change the subject.

"Let's go to that new club on Seventh St," Sophia said bouncing.

"Yea, that would be fun." Fred said. "You know I love Netflix and chill but sometimes we need to change it up."

Gemma rolled her eyes, "So long as you don't have any ideas about setting me up again." She threw an accusing glance at Sophia, who seemed to think Gemma would end up an old maid.

"I promise you, she didn't," Fred crossed his heart.

"At least someone is the voice of reason." Gemma said her face relaxing into a smile. "Meet you outside the club in an hour?"

"It's a date," Sophia teased.

"Hilarious," Gemma retorted dryly.

Fifty minutes later Gemma met up with Sophia and Fred. Once inside the club, Fred offered to get the first round of drinks. Sophia and Gemma found a table as they waited, it was crowded and both girls got more than a few looks as they sat down. "I don't understand why you won't even go out on a date." Sophia said.

"Soph, please, can we not do this?" Gemma asked. "I just want to hang out with my friends. I don't want to worry about some guy."

"How long are you going to keep saying that?" She up nodded at a guy who was obviously giving Gemma the once over. "You are in a club with several fine-looking, eligible men and you won't even dance with one."

"I told you before I'm not interested in a romance right now." Gemma said under the music, "Look, I appreciate your concern but I don't want that." She was not in a good place to think about coupling up with another person. The fact she would have to explain her past relationship also gave her pause. Sophia and Fred didn't know how messed up Luke was. It would be awhile before she would feel safe enough to consider entering another relationship. As soon as she finished talking, the guy that Sophia up nodded was moseying over to their table. "Crap." Gemma muttered.

"Hi, would you like to dance?" The guy asked.

"No thank you," Gemma replied, "I'm here with my friends."

"If you say so," The guy said as he walked away.

"I swear to god," Sophia gave her a hard look, "I'll tell you what I won't mention anymore tonight if you ask a guy to dance."

"How about you never bring it up again?" Gemma said with an evil glint in her eye as she upped the ante.

"Fine." Sophia huffed.

"Fred, you want to dance?" Gemma asked.

"Sure," Fred laughed at Gemma's cleverness.

"No! Not Fred!" Sophia declared.

"You didn't say it couldn't be Fred." Fred and Gemma laughed as they walked to the dance floor. "Thanks Fred," Gemma smirked as she looked back at Sophia, who was shaking her head at the two of them.

"You're welcome, Sis." Fred chuckled. "I wouldn't try that again, though. I don't know how you are feeling, but I can understand if you don't want to date yet. Sophia differs from you. I think she forgets that others need to do things in their own time. We both know she really means well."

"Yea, I know she does," Gemma replied, "I wish she'd back off a bit."

"You know we are both here for you if you want to talk." Fred replied as the song ended and they walked back to a pouting Sophia.

"You got me," She said wagging her finger at Gemma. "You won't get me as easily next time."

CHAPTER SEVEN

A Night Out

Gemma stepped out of the club with Frank and Sophia. They would have stayed longer but Fred had to work over the weekend. The trio walked to the nearby parking garage before splitting for separate floors. When Gemma got to her auto she saw the flat tire. She started to pull out her spare but then realized the other back tire was flat as well. Walking around she observed that all four tires were flat and upon further inspection with using her cell phone as a bright flashlight she noted someone had slashed the tires. She sighed before googling a towing company and calling them. She leaned against the car as she waited. No sense in bothering Fred and Sophia with this she could get a cab home once the jeep was towed. There were still enough people coming and going that she didn't feel weird waiting.

She was checking her phone when a voice called out to her. "Gemma?" Will was walking toward her with what was obviously his date for the evening.

"Hi Will." Gemma greeted him, giving respectful nod to his date.

"Everything okay?" He asked, giving her a concerned glance. His date gave him an impatient look, which he ignored.

"Well, I was at the club with Soph and Fred," Gemma explained. "When I came out, the car was like this. I would change the tire," she said gesturing to the spare, "but then I realized it all four tires are slashed. I'm waiting on a tow-truck. Then I'll catch a cab."

"It looks like the girl has it under control, William." The woman said curtly.

"Her name is Gemma and she works for me." Will replied with a smile. "Gemma, this is Belinda. It looks like you've got this. I'll see you on Monday."

He gave her that smirk he always gave her when he was playing along with Sophia to appease her. "Okay, I'll see you then," Gemma replied leaning back on the car.

They walked away. The woman's stilettos clicked as she moved quickly, trying to put some distance between them. Gemma thought about what Sophia had said and shook her head. If that was what he was dating, no wonder he didn't keep them around. Belinda was beautiful for sure, but her personality stunk of petty jealousy.

Gemma looked at her phone and shut it off. The battery was at thirty percent. She looked at her fitness tracker it had been twenty minutes. The traffic through the parking garage had lessened leaving her feeling a bit vulnerable so she shut the trunk and got into the car locking the doors. Digging into her purse, she was grateful the parking garage was well-lit. She pulled out a sketch pad she had in her purse and started to draw.

Gemma looked up from her drawing and checking her fitness tracker over an hour had passed. As she reached for her phone, a knock on the window made her jump. Gemma saw it was Will and looked at him curiously as she lowered the window. "I worried because you didn't answer my texts."

"Sorry," Gemma said her eyes widening in surprise. "I shut off my cell because the battery was getting low in case I needed to call the tow company again." She sighed rolling her eyes, "Which I need to."

"Let me," Will said grabbing his cell and hitting a button.

"But what about your date?" She asked.

"She left the moment I told her I was making sure you were okay." Will replied, "You're my friend if she didn't want to believe that, it's her issue." He put a finger to his lips as he turned to his phone. "Yes, I'd like a tow truck sent to the Gateway Plaza Garage, Level 8, it's a 2017 Jeep Compass, it has slashed the tires. Blue, license plate number G3MSTN." He listened for a moment before he nodded. "Yea, take to my garage. Thanks, man." He ended the call and looked at Gemma.

"Strange, I would think if she liked you she'd want to meet your friends." Gemma said shaking her head.

"She wasn't interested in actually getting to know me or my friends. Belinda was only interested in what I could do for her." Will sighed. "Come on, lets get you home."

"I'm sorry," She replied not really knowing what else to say.

They walked over to where he had parked his car. "Don't worry about it. Belinda isn't what I would normally look for in a girlfriend anyway." He unlocked the door and ushered her in. Who would have done this?"

Gemma shrugged, "I have no clue. It's never happened."

They drove back to her house in silence. Gemma wasn't sure what to say. It was nice of Will to help her out, but bailing on a date like that wasn't his style. He was always a gentleman. She felt bad. He didn't have to worry about her. Although she had to admit it was a pleasant feeling to have someone worry about her.

He stopped in front of her house. "You didn't have to go to all this trouble, Will. I'm sorry to make you worry." Gemma said as she unbuckled the seat belt.

"Gemma, you're my friend and worth worrying about." Will said catching her chin making her look at him. "And if that means some petty socialite gets her panties in a bundle because I will not let my friend get stranded in a parking garage at night so be it. Maybe someday you will realize what an exceptional person you are."

"Okay, I'm sorry for being sorry," Gemma teased.

Will chuckled, "That's better. I'll see you tomorrow."

"10 am right?" Gemma asked.

Will nodded as she shut the door and walked to the door. He didn't leave until she was inside.

CHAPTER EIGHT

Alex

The next day Gemma was ready when Will arrived at 10 am sharp. They were taking their metal detectors and going treasure hunting at the river where there once was a bustling dock. The old dock had been torn out and new one set up downstream. For the couple of hours they found the usual stuff modern era coins and such. The day was warming up but when Will's detector went off again he dropped to the ground with his trowel and dug a few inches under the surface to find a copper coin.

"Gemstone, I might have found something interesting," He called out whipping the dirt off. He had given her the nickname when she had found a ruby ring on one of their detecting adventures. Gemma walked over as he handed her the coin, "it says 1930 something."

Gemma smiled. "You found your first wheat penny," she grabbed a cloth from her back pocket and wiped the coin a bit more. "It's from 1936. Nice find."

They searched a bit longer, not finding much when Will's phone rang. He took the call as Gemma kept searching. The sun had moved high into the sky and it was turning out to be scorcher. "Gemstone, your car is finished and it's getting hotter than hades here. You want to grab something to eat and go collect it?"

"Yea sure, let me just call Fred, he's working today and see if he can take Alex inside for me. It's getting too hot for him to be outside." Gemma grabbed her cell phone. Fred was fine with checking on Alex as his work was only a block or so from Gemma's house. Alex preferred to be outside when Gemma was gone, but since the day had heated up,it might get too hot for him. They headed to a nearby restaurant and just as they had received their food, Gemma's phone rang.

"Gemma you need to come home quick something is wrong with Alex." Fred sounded panicked. "He's vomiting and can't stand up."

Gemma stood up, almost knocking over the table, "I'm coming right now."

"What's wrong?" Will asked, looking alarmed.

"Alex," Gemma said as Will gave their waitress the money and they walked out without even taking the food.

"You have that special water hose thing for him that makes fresh water available all the time, right?" Will asked.

Gemma nodded, "I hope he didn't get heatstroke from being outside in the heat too long, but Fred was right there. So I don't think so." After that she was quiet, worried. There were plenty of shady areas were Alex could go. He had even dug his own hole in one of them. It wasn't that warm yet.

The car was still rolling when Gemma leaped out, ran toward her house. "Fred, where are you?" She called out in a panicky voice.

"We're over here." Fred called from the side yard. Will and Gemma raced over to them to see Alex trying to stand up. "He's thrown up 2 times and fallen over 3. I don't know what's wrong with him." Gemma pulled her phone out, calling the emergency vet. Will got a thoughtful look on his face and walked around to the driveway where Gemma parked her car before pulling his own phone out.

Gemma explained the situation to the vet and hung up the phone. "They said to bring him right in." Fred reached over to gently pick up Alex.

"Put him in my car." Will said.

"Gem, I hate to leave you but I need to get back to work." Fred hung his head.

"It's okay, Fred, I understand." Gemma gave him a quick hug as she climbed into the backseat with Alex.

Will drove them to the vet's office. As they were carrying him through the door of the office, Alex had a seizure. The people in the office didn't even asked his name they just took him to the back. Gemma looked over at Will as her eyes filled with tears. Will pulled her into a hug. "I'm sorry." Gemma took a deep breath as she leaned against Will, borrowing some strength.

The vet walked out of the back and over to them. "I'm Dr. Verney. Can I ask you a few questions?" Gemma nodded. "Do you have antifreeze anywhere around the house?"

Gemma shook her head. "No, I don't keep that stuff around I have my car serviced."

"I even checked to see if there was anything leaked where she parks her car and there was nothing." Will added.

"When did this start?" Dr. Verney asked.

"He was fine this morning before I left to go metal detecting." Gemma explained, "I had a friend stop by to put in him inside on his lunch break and he noticed it. It wasn't too hot, but he's a big dog and I worry."

"You have a water supply?"

"I use a Lixit."

Dr. Verney nodded, "Then I don't know how it happened, but Alex has antifreeze poisoning. He drank a lot of it and we can't get the toxin out of his body fast enough. The vomiting he did helped, but it only takes a few teaspoons to kill a dog and his symptoms have already moved to seizures. This happens 12 to 24 hours after they ingest it. Sometimes the symptoms go away, but the kidney damage will kill him. There isn't anything we can do but keep him comfortable. I'm sorry."

"Can I see him?" Gemma asked.

"Of course," Dr. Verney said. "Come with me."

They went into the room where Alex was on a gigantic table they hooked him up to an IV. He perked up a little when he saw Gemma. "How is my big brave boy?" She managed to say without her voice cracking as she held his other paw and scratched his ears. Alex wagged his tail at her weakly. She pushed his ears back, looking into his eyes.

"There still are few choices you can make." Dr. Verney said breaking the silence.

"I know what ethylene glycol does, which is why I had none near him. I made sure my mechanic used a propylene glycol antifreeze in case of a leak." Gemma breathed before adding, "Someone poisoned my dog."

Dr. Verney gave Gemma a startled look. "Are you sure?" Will wasn't shocked. He thought much the same considering there was no discharge from her jeep. What amazed him is that Gemma had gone so far to change the antifreeze that was used in her vehicle. She was much more conscientious than he realized.

"How long?" Gemma asked, dropping a kiss on the top of Alex's head.

"Hours maybe..." He replied.

"I don't want him in pain or having repetitive seizures. I am aware of what kidney failure does." Gemma stated her voice was steady, but her hands shook as they threaded through Alex's fur.

"I understand." Dr. Verney said, "I'll be back in a moment." He stepped out of the room, closing the door behind him as he shook his head. Miss Plumb was a sweet woman who obviously cared for Alex very much.

Will looked over at Gemma as she drew a deep breath to calm her emotions. "I'm here for you, Gemstone." Gemma nodded at him, afraid to speak lest she break down. It wasn't the first time she had to put a beloved pet to sleep, but before it was due to old age. Knowing her pet had a full life differed greatly from this. Alex was only five years old.

Dr. Verney returned with some paperwork. I need you to sign here and here, he said handing her pen. Gemma nodded and signed the paperwork. "Do you wish to be here?"

Gemma nodded. "Yes." She climbed on the table, settling Alex's head on her lap as she brushed his hair back from his eyes. His tail thumped quietly. "You're a good boy, Alex. You've been the best boy. Now you deserve to take a rest." She felt his head slump as he slipped into unconsciousness. "That's my boy, take a rest now."

CHAPTER NINE

Anger

Gemma paid the office and walked out with Will following. He wasn't sure what to do, but he knew that Gemma's heart was breaking and that there was only one person who would do such a terrible thing to her that he could think of. Will wasn't one to throw around blame. He would wait till all the evidence was in. But he had the feeling Gemma already knew as well. They pulled up to her house in the almost dusk.

Gemma turned to him. "Would you like some tea?"

Knowing she didn't want to be alone yet, he nodded. She had a tenuous hold on her emotions for the time being, but he knew that she would break down. Will had learned that Gemma was a bit of a contradiction. She would maintain a strong front but what she needed was a friend.They walked into the house. Gemma started making tea when she caught sight of Alex's leash. She sat down heavily, dropping her face into her hands stifling a sob.

"Hey," Will stood up, walking over to her. He crouched down to hug her and decided that she would be much more comfortable on the couch. "Come on." He slipped an arm under her knees and one around her back and carried her to the living room.

"The tea," she managed through her tears, still hiding her face.

"I got it." Will said sitting her down. "You're in no condition." He realized that she was still holding back, so he stepped into the kitchen to prepare the tea. Her phone pinged from the kitchen table and a name flashed on the screen, Sophia. He grabbed his phone and text Sophia letting her know what happened, that he was with Gemma and that she needed some space.

Sophia replied that she would check on Gemma the next day and give her some time. By the time Will made it back into the living room, Gemma sat with a box of tissues as tears streamed silently down her face. "Thank you." She said shakily as he set down the tea.

He sat down on the sofa with her and pulled her into a hug. She stiffened for a moment before she relaxed. "It's okay." Will said.

Gemma huffed as she muttered, "Those words were often used but it was never okay. I was weak for crying. I think that was him telling himself that so he wouldn't have to actually show compassion." Will said nothing, he just pulled her closer.

After a while the tears dried up and Gemma sat up. "Thanks,"

Will gave her a faint smile, "That's what friends are for. I also talked to Sophia earlier told her you needed some time." Gemma nodded as she picked up the now lukewarm tea and took a sip.

"I'm angry." She announced. "I just wish I could prove he did it. He always hated Alex, even though he bought him for me. Luke was jealous said I paid too much attention to the dog."

William nodded. "I have a confession to make."

Gemma looked at him curiously as she waited for him to continue. "After the first few times with the mailbox installed a camera on the tree in your yard and one on the other side. I saw that Luke's been coming around when you aren't home. It was his way of getting around the order, I surmise. " Will explained guiltily, "I hoped since it was pretty much harmless annoyance that it might stop. But after what happened with your car, I was concerned. The parking garage has cameras and I asked them to go through the footage. I haven't checked it or the recent footage from the other cameras here. Do you want to check together?"

Gemma looked at him, alarmed. "You've been watching me?"

Will sighed, "That's why I was afraid to say anything. I didn't want you to think I was being weird. The way Luke acted in the park, I didn't trust he would leave you alone. Something wasn't right."

Gemma sat with her eyes closed for a moment. "I'm a little weirded out, but I understand. Sophia and Fred mentioned putting up cameras to catch the kids. I know you weren't trying to be creepy." She took a deep breath and exhaled. "Let's look at it."

Will moved over to sit next to her to share his screen. He pulled up his email and the footage from the parking garage. They could both see a shadowy figure in a hoodie around walk around Gemma's car messing with the tires, keeping his face turned away from the cameras. He also tried the back doors. "I wonder if we can get fingerprints off those." He mused before asking. "How often did you use the back?"

"Rarely," Gemma replied.

"I'll call the mechanic and tell him to keep your car there for the moment and have the police go over it." Will said. "We'll get you a rental."

Gemma shook her head. "I don't need to go anywhere. I walk most of the time, anyway."

Will said, "If you need to go anywhere, I'll take you."

He pulled up the footage from the cameras around her house. She could see that it was Luke who had been putting raw eggs in her mailbox. Then she saw him place a bowl of something in her yard. Looking at the time stamp it was while she was with Sophia and Fred. Her heart sunk. She had come home and let Alex into the yard before she went to bed. Then again, in the morning before she left with Will. Alex had drank from the bowl twice. There it was Luke had poisoned her dog. Then he had the audacity to come back after she had left with Will and take away the evidence.

Gemma shook with rage. She was angrier than she had ever felt before in her life. "How dare he? Can we go to the police tomorrow?"

Will nodded. "This needs to stop. Luke is obsessed."

Gemma took a deep breath, "Not obsessed. It's about control. I'm no longer the 17-year-old, scared, orphan he can swoop in and save, who will hang off his every word. He liked to wind me up like a fricking toy. It gave him satisfaction to do so. He make me think no one else on earth existed but me and then he'd threaten to leave just to watch me freak out. When I became immune to that he found every flaw I had and magnified it to make me feel worthless."

She stood up and started pacing as she spoke. "In college I had to a take a psychology class. I learned enough to realize I was dealing with a narcissist. I loved him but he never loved me, I was just his investment. His property. Just one of many. Once I realize this I tried to change him make him realize what a douche he was. There is no changing a narcissist without becoming one yourself. I will not stoop to his level, but I will come at him legally. The last time I checked poisoning someone's dog and harassment was against the law."

Will refilled her the cups from the teapot. "I agree."

"If you hadn't set up the cameras. I would only have only had speculation to work off of." Gemma continued. "You don't know how much that means to me. Thank you."

"You're welcome." Will smiled, "I just followed my gut and hoped you wouldn't be upset with me."

CHAPTER TEN

Justice

A few weeks later Gemma was in court. Luke's lawyer, a perky blond, tried to make Gemma seem like the angry jilted lover, the bad guy. Gemma ignored the taunts meant to get at her and stuck to the facts, footage, and fingerprints. When they recessed, Luke's lawyer knew she had no recourse but to instruct her client to ask for a deal.

So there she stood in a conference room asking Gemma to give Luke some leniency. Gemma's resounding negative response was absolute. She wasn't giving him a bit of sympathy. She was past caring how it would affect him. "But don't you realize he's caring for his aging mother?" the woman asked.

"I was with him for years. His mother died of cancer. He never lifted a finger to help her. His sister did. I went to the funeral. Check your facts before blindly believing what he tells you in the sack." Gemma said coldly.

The woman gave her a sharp look before she quickly walked away. Will was hard pressed not to laugh, as was Gemma's lawyer. "You think?" Will asked.

"I know. She's exactly his type." Gemma replied. "The type he used to run around with when he was still with me. She has no clue what she is sleeping with."

"Are you all right?" Mr. Turner asked.

"Yea, I've had to develop thicker skin. I just want him to leave me alone forever." Gemma replied.

"The judge should be back now." Mr. Turner said as his phone pinged. They walked back into the courtroom. Luke kept glancing over at Gemma, but she completely ignored him. She took off her blazer and sat down with Mr. Turner.

Luke looked over at her again and Gemma smirked internally, knowing her beautiful script tattoo was showing. It said "My Freedom, My Life, My choice." She could feel him bristling from across the room. This was her last act of rebellion against him, as passive aggressive as it was.

"I've looked at all the evidence and am ready to deliver my judgment." The Judge said. "Luke Sweet, it has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt that despite a restraining order you have harassed and harmed, Gemma Plumb. You were seen at her residence several times. You damaged her property at the Gateway Plaza Garage. And poisoned her dog. What do you have to say for yourself?"

The color drained out of Luke's face as he realized he wasn't going to win. He sucked in a breath as his face went from white to red with anger, "She created this to make me look bad! It's all her! I did nothing wrong! She called me and asked me to come over! She was orphaned and I was being the good guy to take care of her. I didn't do anything wrong."

Luke's lawyer looked at him with disbelief at the personality change that was happening in front of her. The judge looked over at Gemma, who was cool, calm, and collected. "You've seen this before haven't you, Miss Plumb?"

Gemma leaned toward the microphone sitting in front of her. "Yes, Your Honor."

"Luke Sweet, this court finds you guilty of aggravated stalking in the second degree, vandalism, and animal cruelty." The judge stated. "Since you have no remorse for your actions. I am ready to deliver your sentencing. For the first offense Aggravating stalking in the first degree. I will amend the restraining order to include her residence and property. I can give up to twenty years for your behavior, Mr. Sweet. But I hope seven will be enough to keep you away from Miss Plumb. "

The judge looked down at his notes before he spoke again. "For the second offense of vandalism you will have 12 months in jail to be served separately you will also pay a fine 2500 dollars and restitution for Miss Plumb's repairs of 600 dollars. For the third offense of animal cruelty, you will pay a fine of 1200 dollars and Miss Plumb's veterinary expenses. Additionally, another year in jail to contemplate your terrible deed. I think you deserve more, but that is the most the law allows. The sentence is to be served separately from the other sentences."

Luke was livid with rage. "You believe that dirty little twat over me! She was nothing when I met her. She was a little girl afraid of her own shadow. You are going to send me to jail because of this little bitch. I can't believe this I want a new lawyer and retrial! I'll have your robe!"

The deputies came to take raging Luke away. When the courtroom was quiet again, the judge asked. "Are you okay, Miss Plumb?"

"Yes, Your Honor, honestly that was nothing compared to how he treated me for the last 8 years." Gemma said. "He's called me much worse. I think he now realizes that he can't control me through fear and intimidation anymore."

The judge smiled at her, "That's good to hear Miss Plumb. Court is dismissed."

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Life

A month later Gemma had adapted to her new normal. Will started running with her every morning, so she didn't miss Alex as much. "So you are going to Club Trinity tonight?" He huffed from beside her.

"Yea," Gemma said smiling. "Soph and Fred wanted to go, and we haven't been for a while. You want to come along too?"

"I might show up," Will said with the smirk she had figured out meant he would be there.

"I'll see you there then." She laughed as they came to the spot where they always split ways.

That evening Sophia showed up to get ready for the club with Gemma. "I know I could do this at home." Sophia said as she rolled her hair around the straightening iron making her trademark beach waves, "but I miss doing getting ready with you now and then. What are you wearing?"

Gemma pulled out a pair of tight fitting skinny pants in a black leather-like material. Then going to her shirts she pulled out a figure hugging top it was black and didn't show any cleavage but the upper chest area and full length sleeves were a mesh lace polka dot material that went halfway down the back as well. She stripped down and put the pants and shirt on.

"Sexy-cute, not over the top though," Sophia said with a grin. "I like it." Gemma's makeup was already finished and she took the curling iron and started curling her hair into faux finger waves. "I love when you do vintage hair, especially Gibson girl." The two girls couldn't have been more opposite. Sophia had a bright modern beachy girl vibe and Gemma had a darker gothy vintage vibe. "What shoes should I grab for you?"

"I don't know you choose." Gemma said as she sprayed her hair.

"Gemma, you sure love shoes." Sophia said as she pawed through Gemma's closet. Finally she walked out as Gemma was setting her hair. "I can't decide between these booties, which are awesome or these... She held out a pair of black six inch stilettos.

"When in doubt, always go with stilettos," Gemma chuckled. Sophia disappeared again into Gemma's closet.

"That dress is going to look so good on you. I can't wait to see you in it. So when is the charity dinner?" Sophia asked.

"The day after tomorrow." Gemma replied.

A horn beeped, interrupting their chat. "That must be Fred, picking us up let's go." Sophia grabbed both their purses as Gemma pocketed her phone. They raced out to the car jumping into the backseat laughing.

"So I'm to be a chauffeur tonight," he teased.

"Please Miles, just drive." Sophia bantered in a hoity toity voice, making both girls giggle. Fred shook his head, chuckling at them.

They had just found a table when Sophia pulled Gemma out to the dance floor, leaving Fred to watch their drinks and purses. By the time they came back a few songs later, some of Fred's friends from work had joined them. It was apparent that Sophia was trying to play matchmaker again. Gemma sighed. Why couldn't she just let it be?

Gemma slipped away under the pretense of getting a drink. That was where Will found her. Letting people in front of her because she didn't want to go back to the table. He couldn't help but do a double take she never dressed overly sexy showing a bunch of skin like a lot of the other women did. Her leather pants clung to her behind in all the right places, the sheer fabric on the back of her shirt showed off her lightly muscled back. "Gemma" he greeted her.

Recognizing his voice, she turned to him with a smile. "Will, you made it." Her expression changed, "Soph's at it again, so I'm hiding."

"You want me to be your bodyguard." He teased.

Gemma laughed. "Sure why not?"

They walked back to the table together. Sophia frowned for a moment, realizing that Will was joining them. Fred gave Will a warm welcome. They talked for a few moments before Sophia leaned over to Gemma. "A word, please." Gemma grabbed her purse and they walked to the restroom. "Can't you at least give Tom a chance?"

"How many times do I have to tell you that I don't want to be in a relationship?" Gemma asked.

"How do you even know the only relationship you've been in was with the same asshat for 8 years?"

"Because I need to figure out who the fuck I am before I can be with anyone else."

"You've been saying that for almost a year now. It's time to move on."

"And what makes you think you are so damn qualified to tell me what I need. Now you sound like Luke." With that Gemma grabbed her purse and walked out of the bathroom. She looked for Will, but he was on the dance floor with one of Fred's co-workers. Gemma walked up to the bar and ordered a shot. She downed the shot and headed for the door. She didn't want to ruin Fred and Will's good time. As she stepped out of the club, she heard someone calling her name. She turned to see Tom. "Going home?" He asked as he swayed. He already had a bit too much.

"Yes, it's time for me to leave." She lied, "I have work early tomorrow."

"Oh come on honey, live a little," he caught her elbow.

Gemma stiffened. "I suggest that you remove your hands from my person unless you relish the idea of getting a 6 inch stiletto shoved up your ass."

"Whoa, you are a little high-strung there aren't you baby?" Tom said holding his hands up in surrender.

"Look, you are probably a nice guy, but I'm not in the market for man." Gemma said stepping away from him. "Have a good night." She would call a cab, but she wanted to be away from this guy first. So she started walking away from the club.

The walking seemed to calm her down, so she decided against the cab and kept walking. She knew on some level Sophia was right, but Sophia didn't know what Gemma knew, what she kept most secret of all.

CHAPTER TWELVE

Eye Opener

About twenty minutes later her feet were hurting. Stilettos weren't made for walking. She was just about to call a cab when her phone rang. She saw the caller and answered it. "Gemma, where are you? Sophia told us you guys got into an argument." Will asked.

"That's true, she can't leave it alone. She thinks she knows what's best for me like Luke always did." Gemma said as her face twisted bitterly. "So I left."

"Where are you?"

"About halfway up Seventh between Elm and Oak."

"Stay put, I'm driving now." He said. "Why didn't you ask me to take you home?"

"Because you were out dancing and I didn't want to mess up your fun."

He pulled up a few minutes later. And Gemma hung up the phone and climbed in. "I was getting ready to call a cab my feet hurt." She chuckled wryly.

"I imagine so," Will said shaking his head at her. "That Tom guy said you threatened him."

"He grabbed my elbow trying to get me to, oh, what was the word... oh, Live a little." Gemma replied with air quotes as she rolled her eyes, "I politely informed Tom, that if he didn't remove his hands from my person, he might not like the consequences."

"Which were?"

Gemma huffed, amused, "I threatened to shove a six inch stiletto up his ass."

Will laughed, "I figured there was more to it than the guy was saying, and I can't say I blame you. He had a bit too much."

They pulled up to the house to see Fred's car. "Ugh, I'm going to have to deal with her tonight aren't I."

Will nodded, "Probably, you want me to come in as moral support?"

"I don't want to put you middle. But I would love some moral support because no matter what I tell her she won't back down on this. She's like a dog with bone. Ever since she's been with Fred, she thinks everyone around her needs to be with someone. I know she means well, but it's getting ridiculous. I just wanted to spend time with friends and not worry she might set me up all the time."

"She's been trying to set me up too," Will shook his head. "I should say something as well. Her heart is in the right place."

They stepped out of the car and over to the gate where Fred and Sophia were waiting for them. "Let's not do this outside." Gemma said opening her door. Everyone walked into the living room and took a seat. Gemma took off her shoes, grabbing a few items from the medicine cabinet to tend to the blisters that had developed on her feet.

"For Christ's sake, how far did you walk?" Sophia asked.

"I made it to 7th. I was angry." Gemma said.

"I know, You've never compared anyone to that asshole before." Sophia said. "I just want to understand."

"I've told you Sophia over and over." Gemma replied, "I don't know what more to tell you."

"I know there is something more," Sophia said. "I've known you since high school remember."

"Yea, and you know that I don't appreciate being pushed." Gemma stood up, walking to her liquor cabinet. She pulled out a bottle of expensive tequila she had been saving.

"Gem, I just want to help." Sophia gave her a pleading look.

Gemma didn't bother with the shot glass. Shaking her head, she took off the top, taking a large swig. "You can't help me with this. Don't you understand."

"Well, if you don't tell me what this is then, I can't help." Sophia retorted.

Gemma turned away from them and grabbed the bottle again, taking another swallow. "Trust me, you can't help Sophia and if you could, I wouldn't want it. You want to know why I won't date yet?" Gemma's said flatly. "It's because the entire time I was with Luke, I never slept with him once. At first he said it was because I was under the age of 18. Then he had some compulsion with keeping me pure till our wedding day. Which would never come and gave him license to fuck everything that he could charm the pants off of because, after all, men have needs." She rolled her eyes.

"That's why he never allowed me to pierce my ears or get a tattoo. I was to stay pure." Her voice became tauter the more she talked about it."So how the fuck do I explain to someone that I date, that I'm an almost 26-year-old virgin because my ex-boyfriend was a narcissist who never touched me and wanted me to be pure. He was a selfish prick who made damn sure how to please him. Which, I did whenever he demanded it. Luke made me feel like I was the both on a pedestal he worshiped while at the same time making it as though I was the nastiest thing human eyes had ever seen just for wanting him like a normal woman. I found out later that's how narcissism works. They love bomb and then hate bomb to maintain control of their supply."

She turned around to find exactly what she expected. Fred, Will, and Sophia looking gob-smacked. Will was the first to speak as his head shook in disbelief, "Jesus..." Fred wordlessly nodded in agreement.

Gemma took another swig from the bottle before handing to Fred. She huffed wryly. "So, no, you can't help me, Soph. Now please, for the love of god, quit trying to set me up." Fred drank before he handed the bottle to Sophia, who took a swig and made a face much to Gemma's amusement. Then she passed to Will, who took a swallow as well. He gave the bottle back to Gemma.

"I'm sorry," Sophia mumbled, "You're right I shouldn't have pushed."

"I never wanted to tell anyone for obvious reasons." Gemma admitted blushing as she cursed inwardly at her inability to stop being embarrassed. She took another drink. "I am aware of myself enough to know that I need to continue working on who I am before I can even begin to think about a romantic interest. That's the thing about a narcissist you become who they want you to be and you lose yourself. I'm finding the person I was becoming before I met him."

Will nodded, "That's reasonable."

Gemma took another swig of the bottle.

"Oh my god," Sophia whispered, "I deserved what you said earlier. I was acting like him. I'm so sorry."

Gemma sat down between Will and Sophia. "The difference is yours came from a place of caring and I know that. Luke's came from a place of control." She gave Sophia a hug as she was tearing up.

"I'm going to speak up as well," Will said, "Sophia, I appreciate your concern as well and I know you watch the papers. Please quit trying to fix me up."

Sophia gave them a watery laugh. "Okay, I get it. I'll stop trying to play matchmaker."

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Moving Up

A few months passed and Gemma stepped into her office like she did every Monday, but much to her surprise she found Mr. Fuller and Will waiting for her. "Am I late for something?" She asked.

"Not at all," Mr. Fuller said as Gemma was glancing at her planner to make sure. "It's just something has come up and we have a proposition for you."

"All right then," She sat at her desk and both men took chairs on the other side of her. It felt strange because she was always in Mr. Fuller's office on the chair side, and if they had to go to Will's office for any reason, they both were on the chair side. Now it was as if she was the one in charge because she was behind the desk. "What's going on?"

"Mr. Saxe's personal assistant has left." Mr. Fuller said wryly. "It seems I've been a bit too vocal about what a great assistant you are because now he wants to hire you."

"You could have told me no, Sam." Will said chuckling.

"And deprive Miss Plumb of a higher position and the pay raise that comes with it? I think not." Mr. Fuller bantered. "She deserves it."

"But actually it's up to her," Will said, "What do you say, Miss Plumb? Sam is correct, the position comes with a few more perks and a pay raise."

"I like working for Mr. Fuller, but I would like the opportunity to advance," Gemma admitted.

"That's fair," Mr. Fuller said giving Gemma a kind look. "I'll start looking for a replacement. Mr. Saxe will need you immediately."

"Oh, I didn't realize," Gemma said guiltily, "If you don't mind me asking did she just leave without notice?"

Will shook his head, "She ran off with one of my business associates. I guess they got married in Vegas."

"Wow, okay then." Gemma turned to Mr. Fuller. "I have most of your stuff in order for the week. If you need, I can work with both of you at least until Mr. Fuller finds a replacement."

"Can you take on the extra workload?" Mr. Fuller asked.

"I can for a week." Gemma replied. "It won't be easy, but at least it will give you time. I don't like the idea of leaving Mr. Fuller high and dry like that."

"Not a bad idea actually," Will smiled, "her office is near both of ours and she can move to her new one after this week."

Mr. Fuller looked happier. "It's settled then. Gemma, what on my agenda today?"

"You have a conference with the Bailey Group this morning." Gemma said without even checking her planner. "This afternoon you have a meeting with Mr. Hayes at 2 followed by a piano recital with your daughter Selma at 4:30."

Will looked at her with surprise. "You didn't even have to check."

Mr. Fuller looked at Gemma with a proud, fatherly expression. "She could tell you everything, she's wrote for the next month, Will."

Will looked at her challengingly. Gemma shook her head and smiled. "I'll start with next week. His schedule is full the Drake Summit will take most of his time and his anniversary. The gift is already in your office in the closet. The week after the has meetings with Mr. Penn, on Monday. That afternoon he needs to site check the Wilkes Project. That evening is Sarah's birthday. That gift is also in the closet. Tuesday he meets with Jamie Milne about the new Park Project and..."

"Wow," Will interrupted. "I'm impressed. How do you remember all of it?"

"I found if I write it once I have it memorized." Gemma explained. "It has limits, if I try to remember too much, I get too tired and overwhelmed. When that happens information gets garbled. That is why I only offered to do it for a week."

"Smart girl," Mr. Fuller said.

Will nodded, "Fair enough. I guess we should get started then. I'll leave you with Mr. Fuller while I collect the files I'm working on and my agenda." He stood up, giving her smile as he left the office.

"You didn't need to go to so much trouble, Miss Plumb," Mr. Fuller said kindly, "but I appreciate it. I'll miss having you as my assistant, but I'm happy you could move up in the company."

"I'll miss working for you too." Gemma said.

"Can you get me the Park Project file? I want to work on a few things before I meet with Jamie." He asked as he turned to leave.

"Of course," Gemma replied, opening up her computer.

Forty-five minutes later, her workload had tripled. It was good she had worked ahead as much as possible on Mr. Fuller's assignments because not only did was Will's workload twice that of Mr. Fuller's. His previous assistant either didn't take notes because she had a perfect memory or she didn't care. Looking at the haphazard arrangement of files, it convinced Gemma it was the latter.

She would stay late tonight.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Unseen Things

Will was walking down the hallway to the elevator when he noticed that Gemma hadn't left the office yet. He smiled. She wasn't afraid of hard work. He knocked on the door before stepping in. She was sitting on the floor with his files spread out around her. Gemma had discarded her blazer on the chair and her hair was escaping her bun falling in wavy tendrils around her face. She looked up at him and started to stand but he held out a hand, stopping her.

"Everything okay?" He asked.

"Yes, Mr. Saxe." She replied. Gemma insisted that they keep things professional at the office. Not that Will minded, he liked to keep things separate.

"Got a moment for a cup of coffee?" He asked.

"I do," Gemma replied with a smile. "I'm almost done here, anyway." She stood up, stepping over the files as Will held the door and ushered her out.

She dressed appropriately unlike many of the other younger women in the office. She was classy. He had to admit he loved the way she filled out her pencil skirt that hit just below the knee. He mentally slapped himself. What was he doing? They were at work, and he noticed his thoughts had been drifting in that direction when he was around her lately.

He pushed the thoughts away after all Gemma was his friend foremost. Their talks outside work had been on a more personal level lately. He felt like could he talk to her about anything. He told her about Amara and she told him about Luke. Their pain came from different places, but it was nice to share with someone.

Gemma didn't realize how amazing she really was. She had an honesty about her that drew people to her. He knew that was what had attracted him to her. They entered the break room and Gemma refilled her cup and filled one for Will. "So how are you finding the workload with two bosses?" He asked.

"It's interesting for sure and speaking of which the Harleigh Project... I found an inconsistency in the budget. I was going to bring it up tomorrow but since you are still here, I figure now is good a time as any." Gemma said.

Will's interest was instantly piqued. The Harleigh project was one of the largest projects they were currently working on. "Can you show me?"

She nodded and stepped toward the door. He followed her silently when they got back to her office she reached down and snagged the file opening the paperwork and then her computer where she brought up the same forms. He stepped around the desk to look at the screen with her. He saw it immediately the hard copies and the electronic copies were different. They changed the budget. The electronic copy had much more money than the written one. "Which one is right then?"

"I already chased it down. This one," She grabbed the paper copy. "Is the correct one. I don't think your assistant was just in love with one of your associates, I think she was embezzling money as well. She was the last one to update the files. She left a mess to leave the person filling her position confused for a while." She handed him her notes.

"May I?" Will asked, gesturing to her chair. Gemma nodded and he sat down at the computer and logged in. Gemma left him to it. She went back to the other files on the floor, writing stuff in her planner and making notes of what she needed to do when. She had just returned the files when Will stood up.

"You are amazing," Will said shaking his head. "Anyone else would have just took the electric copies at their face value. What made you look at the hard copies?"

Gemma smiled, "Honestly, I thought she was just lazy or didn't care, but I think they calculated it to misinform. Her notes non-existent. She took her agenda. That told me she was hiding something. Why would she need the company's agenda unless there were things in it that could incriminate her? Receipts weren't documented but thrown into the hard copy."

"Now that I know about the problem I took steps to take care of it." Will said. "Thank you for bringing it to my attention." Gemma grabbed her blazer, putting it on and grabbed her purse.

"I'm clocking out boss," she teased.

Will chuckled, "it's late and dark, let me drive you home."

Gemma nodded. "Sure."

As they drove, he asked. "Did you get any dinner?"

Gemma shook her head. "I forgot to be honest."

"I was going to grab some dinner at Crosby's. You want to join me?" He asked.

Gemma nodded, "Sounds good. Why not? Besides, I've never been and you are always raving about their fettuccine. I want to know what the fuss is about."

The host took them to their table. Gemma was immediately nervous. This was a hoity toity restaurant, not the casual place she was used to. She leaned over to Will and whispered, "Will they throw us out if I use the wrong fork?"

Will laughed. "No, when it doubt just use the outer silverware first. Let me show you. The next charity dinner we are going to it will matter."

"Wait, What?" Gemma asked as the waiter popped up out of nowhere.

"You mind if I order for us?" Will asked. Gemma nodded her agreement. "A bottle of your chardonnay and two orders of fettuccine alfredo. I'll have the salad with blue cheese and she'll have it with Italian dressing."

Once the waiter left and returned with their wine. Will shifted in his seat. "I know that you've gone a to couple business affairs with me but this one is different you will need to know the proper way to use silver. This time you won't be coming as my friend plus one, though you'll be coming as my assistant."

Gemma shifted in her seat, pulling a paper and tablet from her purse, "What do I need to know?"

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Charity

Gemma was getting ready for the dinner. "You are going to tell me everything." Sophia gushed as she touched up Gemma's eye makeup. Sophia was more excited about the dinner than Gemma was. Her hair was perfectly coiffed in a braided chignon, with a few well-placed tendrils framing her face. Nails manicured. Her green eyes were smoked out and lips painted in a burgundy.

Once that was taken care of, she slipped headed to the closet to get the dress. "I can't wait to see it on you." Sophia grinned. Sophia had picked the dress and shoes. Her fashion sense was better than Gemma's and Gemma had always deferred to her judgment. To her credit Sophie had never steered her wrong at least in the fashion department. It was a high neck halter dress, the black fabric clung to her but not so much that she felt uncomfortable. The back was open from the collar of the halter to below the small of her back. The front of the dress was lightly embellished with beads in a medallion design.

Sophia had picked the dress and shoes as she was better at fashion than Gemma. Gemma had always deferred to her judgment, and to her credit Sophie had never steered her wrong. "Well, what do you think?" Sophia asked as Gemma looked in the mirror.

"I love it Soph." Gemma grinned. "I look almost too hoity toity for me." She giggled as she walked over and turned around, checking out her reflection from the back. "But what do you think?"

"I think you are gonna knock them dead, the open back is fucking hot without showing a ton of skin, like the others will." Sophia said knowingly.

Gemma's doorbell rang. "I'll get it." Sophia said running out of the room. Gemma smiled, amused at her friend's exuberance. She stepped over to dresser and picked up a perfume bottle. It was her mother's bottle of Opium she had kept all these years. She loved the scent, but she rarely used it because she didn't want to empty the bottle. She walked over to her jewelry box and pulled out her mother's gold and ruby cocktail ring.

Grabbing her clutch, she walked into the living room where Will and Sophia were waiting. Will looked handsome in his tuxedo as he stood in profile talking with Sophia. The light click of Gemma's heels alerted them that she was there. Will's eyes widened when he saw her. If he was trying to ignore the fact she was a beautiful woman, he had lost the battle. Sophia giggled, reminding him at they weren't alone. When Gemma turned to say something to Sophia he realized that the dress was open in the back leaving her toned back on full display. She was elegant and tantalizing. Jesus. He schooled his face as the women turned back to him. "You look amazing. Shall we?"

Gemma nodded and they headed out the door. Will guided her to the car as Sophia stood in her doorway. "I want all the details tomorrow." They both chuckled at Sophia as they stepped into the limo.

"You ready for this?" He asked.

Gemma nodded. "Let's go." They made small talk until the limo stopped at the venue. The chauffeur opened the door letting them both out, this was a red carpet event so there were photographers all around.

"Mr. Saxe, who is your companion for the Gala." One of them asked.

"Miss Plumb is my executive assistant." Will said. There were a few more pictures taken and then they were inside the venue. Will gently took her elbow to guide her through some introductions before dinner started. An older Japanese gentleman walked over to them. "Konnichiwa, Will."

"Konnichiwa, Naoki." Will answered with a smile, reaching over to shake the man's hand.

Gemma bowed, "Hajimemashite."

She felt Will's look of surprise as Naoki smiled at her. "Dō itashimashite. Onamae wa nan desu ka?"

"Watashi no namae wa Plumb desu." Gemma answered.

Naoki's smile got wider. "I hope to see you again Miss Plumb, Thank you for indulging me." He turned to Will, "She's an excellent assistant. You better keep her."

"You know Japanese?" Will asked as Naoki walked away.

"A little," Gemma admitted, "Not enough to feel sufficiently fluent to add it to my resume."

"So you are fluent in French, Spanish, and know a bit of Japanese?" he half asked.

"And a smattering of Mandarin." Gemma added.

"I should have made you my assistant a long time ago." Will said shaking his head. Everyone seemed to make their way to the dining room. "I guess it's time to eat."

Dinner was one of those elaborate dining experiences, meaning that there was very little food on the plate and they made it to look pretty. The conversation was excellent as Gemma got to know some of Will's associates. After the dinner everyone meandered around to the ballroom.

Naoki walked over to Gemma, "Would you like to dance, Miss Plumb?" He asked.

Gemma smiled, "I'd be delighted."

"So what do you think of this event?" He asked.

"I think it's lovely. I appreciate what the charity is fund-raising for." Gemma replied.

Naoki leaned in a bit conspiratorially, "what did you think of the food?"

Gemma smiled with amusement. "It was beautiful and delicious but I think I may have to stop on my way home." She whispered.

"I knew you'd be honest." The older man chuckled, "You remind me of my youngest daughter. You'll do wonderful with Will's company just beware the sharks here." The song ended and they walked off the dance floor. Will gave her nod as he was talking with someone. Not wanting to interrupt his conversation, Gemma walked over to the nearest server and picked up a glass of wine.

"Miss Plumb was it?" A voice said from behind her. Gemma turned to see who was addressing her. The man was one that she had been introduced to earlier. Her mind raced for a moment before she reo remembered his name.

"Mr. Barlow, Are you enjoying the event?" Gemma asked.

"I'm enjoying it more now," He replied as his gaze shifted over her lecherously. "Mr. Saxe's last assistant wasn't nearly as hot as you."

Gemma kept herself from rolling her eyes. "I bet you say that all the girls." She murmured, stepping back. Gemma knew this type, the playboy that would promise some secretary the world just to get down her pants.

"She was more accommodating, if you know what I mean. We could head off into one of the other rooms." He continued.

"Well," Gemma tilted here head as if she was considering it. "I'm not her." She deadpanned.

The man started to say something else when he was interrupted. "Miss Plumb would you like to dance?" Will was right beside her and had offered his hand.

"Of course," She replied, her heart thumped with relief, before nodding to Mr. Barlow. "I hope you enjoy your evening."

When Will took her to the dance floor, his firm grip on her made her feel safe. "He was making you uncomfortable."

"It wasn't that noticeable, was it?" Gemma whispered.

"Only to me because I know you," Will replied. "What did he say?"

"Apparently, he was intimately familiar with your previous assistant and expected the same from me." Gemma whispered.

"I'm sorry I asked," Will muttered, "Well, not completely that tells me the kind of person he is and she was. I'm just sorry you had to deal with that."

Once the song ended Will turned to her giving her a smirk. "You want to get out of here?"

"Can we?" Gemma asked.

"I'm the boss and if I say so, we can." He replied.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

Stars

Will had the driver go through burger place drive-thru. They were both starving. "I still can't believe we paid four hundred dollars a plate and walked away hungry," he said shaking his head.

"At least it goes to a noble cause." Gemma said as she bit into her burger hungrily.

"True, the night is still young what do you want to do?" Will asked.

"Well, we are all dressed up with no place to go." Gemma teased.

"How about a walk along the lake?" Will offered. "We could look for constellations."

"That sounds like fun. I think I've had enough of rooms full of people for the night." Gemma agreed.

Will leaned forward to speak to the driver before pouring them each a glass of wine. "This week hasn't been easy for you has it."

"Well, I offered to take on two bosses." Gemma replied, "I knew it would be fine. Mr. Fuller has found a replacement, and I've shown her ropes. I think she will do great. It has been exhausting, though."

"You did an impressive job," Will smiled at her. "I'd better be careful you could take my job."

"Ha-ha," Gemma said, amused. "You don't need to worry, I don't want your job. I don't want to be in charge. I like helping behind the scenes. Others more charismatic than I, can have the spotlight."

Will regarded her. It was interesting she knew exactly what she wanted as a career. He wondered if that was why she never did a showing of her artwork. It was good enough for a gallery. "What makes you think you're not charismatic? You charmed quite a few people tonight."

"I'm adaptable but introverted." Gemma said. "That said I can do the rooms of people and do the sociable thing and even enjoy it but it exhausts me and I need to time to... refuel? I guess would be the word. I like to keep my friends circle small and personal."

Will nodded as the limo stopped. "I can understand that. The bond you have with Sophia and even Fred is strong."

"There are few things that would break that bond," Gemma replied as the chauffeur opened the door. "Sophia and Fred stuck with me when my parents died. Fred and I stuck with her when her college sweetheart died. And Fred, used to have serious depression issues. You wouldn't know it now though."

They stepped out into the night. The stars and moon were bright in the sky. The sounds of lake lapping at its shores and the calls of the Whip-poor-will's against the background of crickets and tree frogs. Will grabbed his phone, pulling up his constellation app. Gemma found she enjoyed astronomy almost as much as treasure hunting.

"Lets go over there," Will pointed to the left. "There is a bench we can sit on."

"I'm just glad you didn't suggest a hike up a mountain this time to stargaze," Gemma teased. "I didn't wear the shoes for that."

Will chuckled. "Yea, I thought about that but I didn't feel like going to a club or something loud."

"Me either," Gemma nodded.

"Your feet going to be all right?" He asked, afraid perhaps her shoes might bother her with the walk. After all, the dress was long and honestly it wasn't like he was checking out her shoes.

"Oh, I didn't wear stilettos tonight," Gemma laughed remembering the night she left the club. She lifted the hem of her dress to show a moderate pump like she wore to work, "I'll be just fine."

They got to the bench, but Gemma didn't sit down. She took off her shoes and walked toward the lake as Will held his phone up to the night sky. He looked over at her and smiled. Seeing that Gemma had her back to him, he flipped to the camera. She had lifted her head and was looking up at the sky with her back to him. The moonlight spilled over her. He snapped a picture. She looked so perfect he had to. Flipping back to his app, he noted where the constellations were. "I've got it."

Gemma walked over to him and sat down. "So is that where the big dipper and little dipper are?" She asked, pointing to her left.

"Yes, you're getting better at spotting them." Will smiled. "We can see a bit more of Cygnus here." He gestured and she followed with her gaze.

"Oh, I get it," Gemma said grinning. "I see the swan."

"The further we get away from the city the more we can see." Will said, "Maybe we should go to the observatory one day."

"That sounds like fun," Gemma said. A chill hit her and she shivered.

"Come here," Will said holding out his arm. She shifted over to him as he put his tuxedo jacket around her wrapping his arm around her as well. She laid her head on his shoulder and her scent filled his nose. It was intoxicating he had noticed it when they danced too. "What are you wearing?"

"Oh," Gemma blushed, "It is too old lady? It's my mom's perfume. I love it, but I only use it occasionally because I want to save the bottle."

"Not at all, in fact I like it," Will said hoping the fact he sniffed her again wouldn't come across as too weird.

"Opium." Gemma answered. "Sophia always tells me I smell like an old lady when I wear it."

"Does that make me an old man?" Will quipped.

Gemma laughed, "Of course not!"

"You should get a bottle to wear for you and keep your mom's bottle separate." Will said.

"I hadn't thought of that but it's not a terrible idea." She said turning to look at him. He was closer than she thought their eyes met and her heart thumped. What was going on? She had the same reaction when he saved her from Mr. Barlow. At the time she chalked it up to relief. This whole evening had been a bit strange for her.

"It's getting chilly and late," Will said breaking his gaze first, "I should get you home."

"Okay," She replied as she stood up. Will collected her shoes as she had kept them off. It was a paved manicured path around the lake so no worries about rocks or glass.

They walked back to the limo in silence. It wasn't awkward, but it wasn't the same as usual either. Will felt the shift between them as well. When he caught her gaze, he wanted to kiss her but... all those reasons that was an awful idea went through his head.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

Desires

Will was home. He had dropped Gemma off at her house. Thought about his predicament for a moment before deciding it was ridiculous. He was probably a bit sex deprived. After all, instead of dating as he had done before, he had been spending a lot of time with Gemma. He picked up his phone and contacted one of his booty calls.

Forty minutes later he was under a buxom blond named Betty, realizing that although she had definitely got him going. The problem was that he was not going to be satisfied any time soon. A certain black-haired, green-eyed woman kept drifting into his mind. He tried to chase those thoughts away. Scolding himself for what should not be.

"Something wrong, Sugar?" Betty asked. "You're miles away."

Will sighed inwardly. He didn't want to talk to his booty call about the issue.

"It is woman issues isn't it, Sug." She continued as she climbed off of him. "It's okay, we just hook up and do stuff. So if you wanna talk, I'm good with it. I got mine."

Will shook his head. "I think I'm falling in love with my friend."

"And your worried it might screw up the friendship right?" Betty asked.

"It's more complicated than that." Will said. "To start with she works for me."

"I see and you like to keep work and personal stuff separate." She nodded. "Well, if that is your only issue with it. Fire her and date her."

Will couldn't help but chuckle at Betty's blunt attitude. "I can't do that to her. She's actually good at her job."

"Then you will suffer La Douleor Exquise..." She explained. Will looked at her confused. "It's French meaning, the wrenching pain of wanting someone you can't have."

Will chuckled again, this time at the irony. "She would have understood it. She's fluent in French."

"Oh honey," Betty smiled, "You got it bad for this girl."

The next day Gemma was going through her own internal crisis. "Gemma you should just tell him." Sophia said shaking her head.

"Tell him what?" Gemma retorted. "That he makes my heart beat faster?" She rolled her eyes. "That's corny as hell. Besides, I work with him. I could lose a friend and my job. No."

"I don't think that's the case at all." Sophia said. "I'm ninety percent sure the man likes you. Have I ever steered you wrong?" Gemma gave her a blank look. "Okay, I have but this time I know I'm right."

"The risk isn't worth it." Gemma said giving Sophia a firm look. "I'm not even sure if I'm okay to date yet much less have these kinds of feelings for someone."

"I think the simple fact that you do lends to you being more ready than you think." Sophia said as she leaned over to give Gemma a hug. "I promise to stay out of it... for now."

Gemma was nervous. They meaning, Fred, Sophia, Will and her were going to an escape room. Gemma and Will had always kept things professional at work so it wasn't hard to keep her countenance about her there. But this would be different, she hadn't seen him outside of work since last weekend. She was second guessing everything like a teenager. Was her outfit too casual like she didn't care or was it too showy. "I feel ridiculous." Gemma pouted. She was nervous about hanging out with her friend that she wasn't supposed to have those feelings for. What wasn't ridiculous about the situation?

Gemma had changed 5 times until Sophia showed up and styled her. Sophia had picked a pair of black jeggings with a light white strappy cami and a jean jacket to wear with some pink flats for Gemma. Her hair was pulled back in a messy bun. "Will's here." Fred announced from the living room. The girls walked into the living room. Fred already had Will deep in conversation about the escape room.

So they piled into Fred's car. The girls in back, the guys in the front. It was a brief drive. Fred had turned the music up so the girls danced in their seats as the guys chatted. "We're here." Fred said as they got out of the car. "I'm so stoked for this. "

"Me to!" Sophia said with a smirk. "This is gonna be great. "

They walked into the building and a man walked over and introduced himself as Marty before explaining the rules and the time limit. He led the four of them to the first room, but when Gemma and Will walked through the door, they slammed it behind them. A voice came over the intercom. Will and Gemma, you are to work together to get out of the escape room you have an hour. Your friends hope you can work out your issues by doing this.

Gemma wanted to strangle Sophia. Of course, she would do this. She took a deep breath, to quell her anxiety as she looked up at Will who was studying her expression. "Sophia." He stated more than asked.

"I'm already plotting my revenge." Gemma growled.

Will chuckled. "She can't leave anything alone for too long can she."

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Escape

"We should at least look for some clues. I can't implement revenge if we are stuck in here, right?" Gemma said looking around. "I see a math book on the desk." She walked over to check it. Sure enough, there was a dog-eared page that had an equation circled. "This is the Pythagorean theorem, what could that be pointing to?" Will walked over to her and looked at the book.

He grinned and glanced about. "Maybe it's not the equation but the shape that it represents a triangle. I see a picture with a triangle." He walked over to the picture and took it off the wall. "There's a key behind it. It has a 1 on it. One of how many? I wonder."

Gemma surveyed the room again walking over to the bookcase. "I see a book with a triangle on the binding." She reached up to grab the book, but it was just barely out of her reach.

"Let me." Will said. Gemma turned to move out of the way, not realizing he was already behind her reaching for the book. She stumbled into him and he caught her. His arms encircled her as hers rested against his chest. "I got you." They stared at each other. It was a thrilling, scary moment where neither of them had courage to make a move, but they both knew.

Gemma broke eye contact first flushing. "Thank you."

"We should talk later," Will murmured because of the cameras. Gemma nodded in understanding. He stepped back, handing her the book. She opened it to find a keyhole.

"May be your key fits there?" Gemma asked.

"Perhaps." Will tried the key and it unlocked and opened to reveal a triangle block. "We should check the rest of the books."

Gemma nodded and crouched down to check the lower shelves. They had gone a through a few books before Gemma pulled another book out and it hid a triangle-shaped hole. "I think I found where our block goes. Can I see it, please?" Will dropped the block into her hand and watched as she got on all fours. He had to admit he enjoyed the view a bit more than he should have. Gemma's derriere was looking fantastic in her tight pants. She leaned under the bookcase and put the block into the hole and something clicked.

"Where was that at?" Gemma asked, dusting off her hands as she stood back up.

"I'm not sure," Will said averting his eyes, "It was somewhere by the piano."

They went over to check around the piano. Finding nothing, Gemma had an idea. "What if it's the piano itself?" She dropped the fall board and pulled on the upper panel to slide it up.

"You found it." Will smiled as he took a box out of the piano. He opened it to find a piece of paper. "It's a jumble of letters with a clue."

"Let's sit down for a minute and look at it." They sat on the two armchairs in the middle of the room. "The letters are M I ISTH and the clue is strips in geometry."

"That's a little racey." Will teased. Gemma huffed, amused.

"Strips in geometry... a strip of land is an isthmus..." Gemma mused.

"Wait, they want the plural. Isn't the plural of isthmus, isthmi?" Will asked. "The letters fit too."

"I think so." Gemma replied walking over to the globe she turned it around as she studied it. "The isthmus of Panama is a button and so is the isthmus of Suez. I think we have to push both at once, isthmi." Will moved over to the globe and they pressed the buttons at the same time.

The globe popped open. There was another paper inside it. Gemma opened it read e d c d e e e. "What does that mean?" Will asked curiously.

"The piano!" Gemma blurted. She walked over to the piano, putting the panel back in place before pulling up the drop lid. She played the notes and it sounded like Mary had a Little Lamb. "I guess those piano lessons mom insisted on came in handy."

Will smiled, amused. "There is a picture of a flock of sheep here." He picked up the picture and turned it over. "It says find the wool. Textiles?" They looked around the room.

"Coats are sometimes made of wool." Gemma gestured over to the coat rack. They searched the coats and found nothing. They were hanging the clothing back up when the rack shifted and something opened. "Oh my god, there's a fake panel here."

Will walked over and removed the panel completely. It was a passage. "Looks to be big enough for both of us if we go single file."

Gemma nodded and stepped into it. The passage was dimly lit and short at the end of it there was a door. Gemma tumbled out with Will behind her. "We did it!" Will grinned.

"Congratulations," Marty smiled at them. "You two are superb at working together. Your friends are still working on their room. They have a half hour left. There is a coffee shop about half a block away you can wait there if you like. We'll let them know where you are when they finish."

Gemma and Will nodded and stepped out into the street. Before they got to the coffee shop, Will reached over to take Gemma's hand. "Come here for a minute." Gemma nodded and he walked into a narrow alley. "I wanted to take a moment and talk to you privately, away from Sophia and the cameras and work. I'm hoping I don't come across as crazy either, but I want to be more than friends."

He took a nervous breath as he watched her reaction. Gemma looked up at him under her lashes as she blushed. "I would like that too."

Damn if she didn't just give him bedroom eyes and not even be aware of it. He cupped her jaw and pressed a kiss to her lips. Her lips were just as soft as he remembered from the first time he kissed her in the park. He wasn't taking her by surprise this time. She sighed into his kiss and he lingered a moment longer before pulling away. "I've wanted to do that for a while now." He admitted. She flushed lightly at his words, making him smile inwardly as he took her hand. They stepped out of the alley and headed to the coffee shop.

CHAPTER NINETEEN

A Proper Discussion

Fred and Sophia had dropped off Will and Gemma and left. They were fighting about the escape room. Sophia had broken it somehow. Gemma breathed a sigh of relief because that was taking Sophia's attention versus what was going on between her and Will. She knew that Sophia would notice right aways something was different. Gemma thought that she and Will needed to chat before she talked to Sophia about it.

"Why don't you come in." Gemma said.

Will nodded. "Yea, I think we should discuss this." They took their coffee and walked into the living room.

Neither of them was sure where to begin so they were silent for a few minutes. "I had someone tell me to get over my issue that you work for me that I should fire you and then date you. But I wouldn't do that. I'd be depriving myself of a fantastic assistant." Will said breaking the silence.

Gemma couldn't help but chuckle. "Was that really an option?"

"You probably wouldn't have anything to do with me if I did that." Will quipped.

"You know," Gemma said thoughtfully, "We've done a suitable job of keeping work and our outside stuff separate. I think we just continue doing the same."

"That would be the most practical thing to do," he replied before taking a moment to think before he spoke again. Will's expression changed to amused. "I was also told that if I did nothing I would experience La Douleor Exquise."

Gemma's eyes widened at the phrase and she blushed lightly, "Wow."

"I knew you would know what it meant." He said sheepishly, "I needed an explanation." She giggled. "When we were at the escape room, I realized you felt the same way."

Gemma nodded, "Yea, I didn't want to say anything. It would be stupid to lose a friend and my job. You've been there for me just like Sophia. Especially, with the Luke bullshit and with Alex. I was afraid..."

"But I'm not Sophia." Will teased, slipping an arm around her.

"No, you are not." She said amused.

"I admit I pushed you away because you know I kept my personal life out of my work and other reasons you already know." Will admitted.

"How do you feel about that now?" Gemma asked. "I'd be lying if the thought didn't cross my mind."

"I think she would smack me for being an idiot." He gave a wry smile. "I was afraid that if I let someone else into my heart, I would forget her. But that's not the way it is at all. I know you had some reservations as well..."

Gemma nodded, "Yea I did... but after the charity dinner Sophia pointed out that perhaps I was being too careful. She seemed to think that simple face I was developing feelings was proof that I was ready. But that didn't matter because..."

"You were afraid of losing me as your friend and an excellent paying job?" Will finished for her as he pulled her closer to him.

"Yes," Gemma answered, laying her head on his shoulder. "Why don't we do something... coupley, movie and pizza?"

Will smiled. "I like that idea." He pulled up his phone and order pizza for the two of them as Gemma flipped through her Netflicks.

"I haven't seen this for a while." Gemma grinned, as the screen displayed Monty Python and The Holy Grail.

"Splendid choice." Will smiled.

They settled on the sofa watching the movie. At first she thought it was strange, the whole I like you thing was awkward as hell, but once that was done, it was as if not much had changed. Probably because they knew each other so well already. Gemma sat back and stopped thinking as Will snaked his arm around her pulling her closer to him as they watched the movie.

CHAPTER TWENTY

Reality Check

Gemma woke suddenly. Thunder crashed and lightening lit up the room with an almost daylight brightness. She sat up, willing her heart to slow when Will turned sleepily toward her. They took turns spending the night at each other's places, but tonight he was at hers. "Are you okay?"

"Yea," Gemma answered, trying to hide the fact she was frightened.

"Come here," he said. "I figured out the first night it wasn't Alex. So stop trying to hide it from me."

She dropped her head, blushing hard. "I'm sorry. It was storming when parents died. I've been afraid of thunderstorms ever since. It's dumb."

"I don't think it's dumb at all." He replied, wrapping his arms around her as she snuggled into his big spoon.

He pushed her hair out of his face and pressed a kiss to the back of her neck before asking, "Better?"

"Yea," she answered sheepishly. "Thanks." She turned her head to kiss him. He deepened the kiss and she melted into him. His hand moved over her. She stiffened nervously. Will had been a careful to not push her. His hand moved up to cup her cheek. Noting her anxiety, he ended the kiss and wrapped his arm around her. Then a thought hit her. She shouldn't stress about this with him. Foremost, she knew he would never hurt her. Second, if she trusted him with her heart, she could trust him with her body. She wasn't sure how to convey that to him without wanting to die of embarrassment.

Gemma berated herself she was almost twenty-six years old and she couldn't talk to the man she loved about sex. This was ridiculous. She turned towards Will to face him. "What is it, Gemstone?" He asked as lightening lit up their faces.

"I trust you." She said pressing a kiss to his lips. Her hand slid up his chest and over his shoulder before it rested on the back of his neck combing his thick waves.

They broke their kiss only when they needed air. Will looked at her thoughtfully as the thunder flashed and said "Only if you're sure." Gemma nodded. "If anything happens, you don't like you or feel uncomfortable I want you to tell me right away." He searched her face. "Understand?"

"Okay," she whispered before he captured her lips again. Will pushed her onto her back as he stayed on his side. His free hand exploring the contours of her body over her clothing as his lips never left hers. As his thumb skimmed over her breast, she shuddered and her hand tightened where she had planted it the back of his neck. He moved over her giving her t-shirt a gentle tug.

Taking the hint, Gemma sat up and allowed him to tug the shirt off of her. He took a moment to look at her in the stormy light. Gemma had to remind herself that she didn't need to cover her body with her arms. Will smiled at her and gently tilted her lips up to his. "You're beautiful."

He kissed her before coaxing her to lie down again. Gemma worried that she might not be doing enough reached for him and ran her hands over his back. As if he read her mind, he pulled away from her, catching her gaze in the storm-lit room. "I don't want you to worry about me. We can explore that another time. This is for you." His head moved down to her breast and a stifled moan left her lips as she instinctively arched into him for more.

He smiled she was so shy but he hoped that that would disappear with time. Gemma was a little confused about her body's reaction. It was like when Will's lips met her breast, a wave of white-hot lava had rushed through her. He felt so damn good. Was this how it was supposed to be? She wanted more, so much more. She stifled the sounds coming out of her mouth, embarrassed of her vocal response.

He moved to kiss her before whispering in her ear. "I want to hear you, Gemstone. How else am I going to know you are enjoying what I'm doing?" The storm was abating, so he couldn't see her facial expressions as well now.

He had a point, Gemma had to admit, and his words did a lot to ease her self-consciousness. His lips moved to the other breast and she gasped in surprise as he caressed one with his hand as his mouth laved the other. She could feel her stomach turn to jelly as her need increased. He slid his hand down, tracing the outline of her hips down to her knee. Rounding the joint before running his fingers along the inside of her thigh, he barely brushed over her apex before going down the other leg.

Gemma closed her eyes as she wondered what he would do next as he continued to run his fingers over her. She felt a tug on her shorts. She opened her eyes, understanding in that moment Will was both asking permission and for assistance. Lifting her hips in reply, he slid the rest of her clothing off her body.

It surprised him to realize that she was hairless. Most women liked to keep what they called a landing strip. He couldn't help but to wonder if that was something she did or if it was residual brainwashing from Luke. Gently running a finger over her she jolted and gasped with pleasure as his finger connected with metal. If the grooming surprised him, this development was astonishing.

"When did you get this?" he asked.

She chuckled nervously, "I got both the tattoos and the piercing a month after I left." The fact he was talking to her actually made her feel even more at ease.

"I think I may have to explore this discovery a bit more." Will said deviously as he lowered his mouth over her. She jumped, grasping the mattress to ground her. His arms pinned her hips in place as his lips and tongue tested and teased and scouted out what she liked. He could feel her stuttering movements and he was not about to stop her.

Gemma contorted as she tumbled. His name spilled from her lips. Will stayed with her riding out her climax before drifting a finger down. He had to admit he knew only what locker room stories he had been told as a teen about girls' virginity. None of them had actually known where a hymen was located. Google was his friend. He prodded lightly to test whether it would be painful for her. She stiffened.

"Uncomfortable?" He asked.

"A little." Gemma admitted.

He wiped his mouth and sat up, reaching for the water glass on the nightstand. He took a drink. After setting the cup back on the nightstand, he reached for the lube he had packed in his overnight bag just in case of a situation like this. "I've got a confession to make. I've never been with a virgin so I looked it up because I didn't want to hurt you."

Gemma said nothing for a moment. His consideration touched her. "Wow, I'm..." She stopped and her face flushed. "What did you find out?"

"To take it slow and use lots of lube. I came prepared just in case. I wasn't sure when you would decide." He said slightly embarrassed.

Gemma was sure her face was beet red. She was thankful the room was still dark. But it was good they were talking about it. "Okay then."

"You still want to?" Will asked.

"Yes," Her voice was firm. "I told you before I trust you." Will's mouth took possession of hers as her hands slid over him stopping to cup him through his pajama pants. He groaned into the kiss, realizing that she was still just as worked up as he was.

He shifted out of her reach reluctantly. "You are making hard for me to concentrate on you." He slid a leg between hers, putting pressure on her ring. As his fingers worked over her breasts. A tsunami of desire cascaded through her and she ground into him. She wanted more, and she wanted all of it this time.

He took his time priming her. His clever fingers and mouth worked over her body, finding everything that made her moan, shiver and shudder. Finally, when he slid his pajamas off and reached for the lube, daylight was lightening the room and Gemma watched through hooded eyes as he palmed his himself.

She felt herself blush at the thought that watching him was incredibly sexy before he settled between her legs. Will grabbed a pillow and lifted her hips, sliding the pillow under her. He aligned himself and was about to ask Gemma again, but she interrupted. "Keep going." Her hands moved down his back.

He slowly slid forward watching her face which contorted for a moment before she took a deep breath and gripped him tighter. She was so tight around him that it was almost painful for him. Once he was fully seated inside her he stopped and waited for her relax. "I'm sorry." He whispered.

"I'm not," Gemma whispered back. His lips found hers. A few minutes later her body relaxed and she experimentally moved her hips. Will groaned, Jesus, she felt good. He bit the inside of his cheek to distract himself.

Feeling it was okay to move, he captured her lips as he started to move. Gemma was inexperienced and it was the first time, so it took a few tries to get a rhythm going that worked for both of them. When they found it, he slipped his hand between them, toying with her bundle of nerves and piercing. It wasn't long before she keened and shuddered, dragging him over the precipice with her.

Will cuddled Gemma for a moment before slipping out of her and rolling to the side, not wanting to encumber her with his weight. He laid down on his back and gently tugged her over to him. She laid her head on his chest. "Before you ask, I'm okay." Will chuckled. She knew him pretty well. The sun was peeking through the window. "Can we have a lazy day today?" She asked, closing her eyes.

"We can do anything you want." Will said pulling the blanket over them a bit more before allowing his eyes to close.

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

Life Goes On

Gemma and Luke were at work. They were discussing the Milard Project when a woman burst through the door. She was well-dressed and manicured. Her medium brown hair was impeccably coiffed. She was gorgeous by Gemma's standards. Her Kohl-lined dark brown eyes were stormy with anger, as she looked at Will. Mrs. Peters the office secretary looked distressed as she rushed into the room right behind the woman. "I'm sorry Mr. Saxe I tried to stop her."

Will smiled at the worried woman. "It's okay, Mary. I'll handle it. You just go back to your work."

"I heard you were serious with someone from the office and I didn't believe it." She said. "You said you couldn't date anyone from work or get serious with anyone after your wife's death."

"Hello to you too, Lauren." Will said. "And my life doesn't include you so what makes you think you can walk into my office disrupting my staff because of some issue you have with the fact that I didn't want to be with you? We haven't seen each other in almost a year."

"That doesn't mean that I've gotten over it." Lauren stated huffily.

Gemma wanted to be anywhere but in that office. "Should I come back later?" She asked.

"No, I think you should stay, Miss Plumb." Will smiled at her. "Miss Vance will leave in a moment." He turned his attention toward the other woman and his face became firm. "I told you before, Lauren. That I don't feel the same as you and my feelings haven't changed." Will stated. "It is true. I am seeing someone. And it's none of your business. You need to move on."

"But that's not fair! You should have given me a chance. I could have made you happy," Lauren screeched. Gemma stepped back in shock. Lauren's outward appearance screamed refinement and higher breeding, but her real self was... wow.

Security walked into Will's office, "Can you see Miss Vance out please?" Will said.

Lauren huffed as security led her away.

Gemma looked at Will with slight amusement. "So who was she?"

"Crazed daughter of my father's friend, Mr. Vance." Will replied. "I dated her for two weeks. She is a bit spoiled and high-strung. I wanted you to stay because I don't want any secrets." Will walked over to Gemma, sliding his arms around her. "Are you okay?"

"Yes, that situation was awkward." She slipped her arms around him in return. " But I'm grateful that you were so open with me."

"I want you to feel secure with us." Will replied, dropping a kiss onto her temple.

The sound of someone clearing their throat interrupted them. Mr. Fuller and Mrs. Peters stood in the doorway. Will smiled. "I didn't realize you were there." Gemma blushed, realizing that security hadn't shut the door on their way out. "I guess the cat is out of the bag now." He said looking down at Gemma. "Gemma and I have known each other for some time. We met before she started working here. But we only started dating a few months ago."

"Well, if you can call, me running into you because my dog took off after a squirrel, meeting someone," Gemma teased. Will chuckled at her.

"Will, you could do much worse." Mr. Fuller said looking like a proud father. "I'm happy for you."

"I wondered about that!" Mrs. Peters twittered beaming, "I had thought that you two might be or rather should be more than boss and assistant."

#

Gemma and Luke were at work. They were discussing the Milard Project when a woman burst through the door. She was well-dressed and manicured. Her medium brown hair was impeccably coiffed. She was gorgeous by Gemma's standards. Her Kohl-lined dark brown eyes were stormy with anger, as she looked at Will. Mrs. Peters the office secretary looked distressed as she rushed into the room right behind the woman. "I'm sorry Mr. Saxe I tried to stop her."

Will smiled at the worried woman. "It's okay, Mary. I'll handle it. You just go back to your work."

"I heard you were serious with someone from the office and I didn't believe it." She said. "You said you couldn't date anyone from work or get serious with anyone after your wife's death."

"Hello to you too, Lauren." Will said. "And my life doesn't include you so what makes you think you can walk into my office disrupting my staff because of some issue you have with the fact that I didn't want to be with you? We haven't seen each other in almost a year."

"That doesn't mean that I've gotten over it." Lauren stated huffily.

Gemma wanted to be anywhere but in that office. "Should I come back later?" She asked.

"No, I think you should stay, Miss Plumb." Will smiled at her. "Miss Vance will leave in a moment." He turned his attention toward the other woman and his face became firm. "I told you before, Lauren. That I don't feel the same as you and my feelings haven't changed." Will stated. "It is true. I am seeing someone. And it's none of your business. You need to move on."

"But that's not fair! You should have given me a chance. I could have made you happy," Lauren screeched. Gemma stepped back in shock. Lauren's outward appearance screamed refinement and higher breeding, but her real self was... wow.

Security walked into Will's office, "Can you see Miss Vance out please?" Will said.

Lauren huffed as security led her away.

Gemma looked at Will with slight amusement. "So who was she?"

"Crazed daughter of my father's friend, Mr. Vance." Will replied. "I dated her for two weeks. Spoiled and high-strung, everything I have never wanted. I wanted you to stay because I don't want any secrets." Will walked over to Gemma, sliding his arms around her. "Are you okay?"

"Yes, that was... awkward." She slipped her arms around him in return. " But I'm grateful that you were so open with me."

"I want you to feel secure with us." Will replied, dropping a kiss onto her temple.

The sound of someone clearing their throat interrupted them. Mr. Fuller and Mrs. Peters stood in the doorway. Will smiled. "I didn't realize you were there." Gemma blushed, realizing that security hadn't shut the door on their way out. "I guess the cat is out of the bag now." He said looking down at Gemma. "Gemma and I have known each other for some time. We met before she started working here. But we only started dating a few months ago."

"Well, if you can call, me running into you because my dog took off after a squirrel, meeting someone," Gemma teased. Will chuckled at her.

"Will, you could do much worse." Mr. Fuller said looking like a proud father. "I'm happy for you."

"I wondered about that!" Mrs. Peters twittered beaming, "I had thought that you two might be or rather should be more than boss and assistant."

Over the next few weeks Gemma had gotten some dirty looks and an outpouring of blessings from her colleagues as scuttlebutt went around the office. She thanked the well-wishers and ignored the pettiness. But this day particular she had to go down to archives and was on her way back when she was confronted in the elevator. "What makes you so fucking special?" The woman asking was the principal reception secretary she reached over and hit the stop button.

"Excuse me?" Gemma said politely.

"Why after all this time did Mr. Saxe pick a Plain Jane like you?" The woman said.

"You'd have to ask him," Gemma said.

"But I'm asking you." She replied. "He'll dump you in a week, anyway."

Gemma's eyes narrowed. "Look, if you have an issue with the fact that Will and I are a couple. That is your problem. Not his, not mine. Get over yourself."

"He's not married yet, honey, free game. And if he's opened, the dating pool to people he works with I'm taking my shot." She said, hitting the start button. The elevator started moving again.

When the elevator got the Gemma's floor, the door opened and Will was standing outside it. He put his hand on the door, preventing it from closing as Gemma stepped out. "I was looking for you Miss Plumb. You left your phone in your office. Then security told me the elevator was stuck." He looked over at the secretary. "Miss Cortland, if you want to keep your job you should refrain from harassing other employees." He nodded at the security camera in the corner.

She dropped her head. "Of course, Sir."

"And in answer to your question, why Gemma?" Will continued. "I love her. I won't tolerate anyone harassing her because of her position here or because of her status as my fiancee."

Miss Cortland's face was red with humiliation. "My apologies, Mr. Saxe. Miss Plumb, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have assumed." Will released the door, letting the elevator close.

"Fiancee? " Gemma asked, amused.

"Seemed the proper word to use," Will smiled at her taking her hand. "And besides, it feels right to me. Not the way I had imagined asking, though. This is probably the most backwards marriage proposal ever. Is that okay with you?"

Gemma chuckled, "It's okay if we do some things backwards... and yes, I'll marry you."

"Good, because I've been carrying this around for a week now, waiting for a good time." He said reaching into his pocket. He pulled out a box and opened it, showing her the contents.

Gemma recognized the pear-shaped ruby immediately. It was the one she had found when they had gone treasure hunting. Will had the ruby reset with diamonds surrounding it. "It's beautiful."

Will took the ring out of the box and slipped it onto her finger. "Now it's where it was meant to be." He pressed his lips to hers in a gentle kiss but they were interrupted by clapping.

Mr. Fuller and Mrs. Peters along with the other coworkers had gathered. Gemma blushed, but Will merely took her hand. "I think we did a terrible job of keeping work and and personal life separate today." He said sheepishly, "But they don't seem to mind." Mrs. Peters rushed over to Gemma to see the ring as Mr. Fuller and the other others gathered around to congratulate them.

