Chapter 39 Nancy
THE REST OF THE WEEK, I clung to my work routine like a lifesaver, parking out the front of Toverton Tower just before nine, taking the lift directly to the top floor, and staying in the secure office until six.
Alex was there before I arrived and after I left, but, as promised, he made no move to speak to me.
In fact, as I worked studiously, trying to ignore his presence across the hall, he never looked over once.
Not a glance as he went in and out of meetings or a single visit to our office to chat with David about the audit—nothing for four days.
To my annoyance, it burnt me. Yet, every evening, when I opened the door to the flat, there was an ostentatious display of flowers waiting to taunt me.
Although no card was attached, it was obvious who they were from.
On Tuesday, they were fire-coloured lilies and chrysanthemums, matching the floral spray prints of the Prada dress Alex had bought for my birthday. The one he’d so delicately stripped from my body.
On Wednesday, I received gorgeous-smelling blue verbena and baby pink roses. It took me a moment to realise they matched Alex’s hoodie and the knickers I wore the night we first made love. I stalked into my bedroom to avoid the display, which I couldn’t bring myself to throw away.
On Thursday, lipstick-red carnations sat waiting, matching my dress and heels from the fated gala. That pissed me off. How dare he remind me of that awful night? But his message was loud and clear.
I’m waiting for you to talk.
If anything, it made me more resolute. If he thought he could coax me into talking by throwing his money around, he didn’t know me at all.
As Friday afternoon ticked on, I congratulated myself for sticking to my no-contact rule for the whole week.
It was post-Alex day six, and I had a free weekend ahead of me, hanging out, watching TV, and pottering around, all without the prospect of seeing him.
I ignored the hollow ache in my chest and turned to David. “What are your plans this weekend?”
“I’m taking Jayden to Paris for our anniversary.” His brow flashed over the rim of his glasses. “We’re meeting at St Pancras straight after work to catch the Eurostar—first-class—then staying in the Four Seasons with balcony views of the Eiffel Tower.”
“Can I fit in your suitcase?” I laughed. “That sounds the business. Jayden is a lucky man.”
“He is, isn’t he?” David chuckled. “He’s also a man who likes the finer things, which makes this gift easy, if not eye-watering.”
“How long have you two been together?”
“Six years and married for three. Alex was my best man.”
I tried to hide a frown at the mention of him. “I didn’t know that. I bet it was a classy do.”
“It was…bougie. Of course, Jayden wouldn’t have it any other way.
He looks after the PR for several up-and-coming celebs.
The latest winner of Show Me Yours is one of his,” David explained, then his expression drew sombre.
“Listen, I know you haven’t said anything, but it’s pretty clear you and Alex are going through a rough patch.
I appreciate you keeping it professional at work, but I also understand that’s no easy task.
I just want to say that I’m here if you need any support or want to chat. ”
“Thanks, David, I appreciate it. It’s not been easy, but we’re both being adults about it, and we won’t be on this assignment forever.”
“So, what are your plans this weekend?”
“Chilling out, catching up on some TV. There’s a tub of cookie dough ice cream with my name on it.”
“Good call.” He smiled sympathetically and rose. “Well, I’m going to love you and leave you. I’d better shoot if I want to beat the traffic.”
“Have an amazing anniversary.” I waved him off, trying to ignore the pain inside. Monday marked the two-month anniversary of when I’d first met Alex in the lobby.
When five came around, I left to change into my leathers. As usual, Alex was still working at his desk and made no move to look at me. I said goodbye to Evelyn and took the lift.
Once home, my eyes skimmed the kitchen, but there was no bouquet. I sighed. He’s finally given up. At least that will make it easier going forward.
I went to the sink for a glass of water just as Mum entered the lounge looking flustered.
“You okay?”
She held out a manila folder filled with documents. “A solicitor just left. He came by with this.”
My gut twisted. “What is it?”
“The deeds to the flat. He needed me to sign the papers. It took me ages to read through everything. I didn’t want to sign my life away or something. He said he works for Alex. Love, he’s bought the flat and put it in my name. We own the place.”
“What?” I had to shake my head a few times for Mum’s words to compute. “What the actual fuck!”
“I don’t know what to say. Why would he do this? You’re not together. Do you think he’s paying us off for something? Does he expect you to keep quiet about this stuff with Mimi?”
“I don’t think keeping me quiet was his goal,” I murmured.
Before I realised what I was doing, my phone was in my hand, and I was calling Alex. He answered after one ring. “I’m still up on seventy-one. Evan’s out front and will bring you back.”
“You conniving shithead! How dare you!”
“We’re not talking like this. Take the car. I don’t want you riding angry again,” he said forthrightly before dropping the call.
I almost sent the phone flying across the lounge.
“What is it? What did he say?”
“Sorry, Mum, I have to go back to work. I’m gonna sort out this wanker once and for all.” I stalked out the flat and down to the Ninja. As Alex advised, Evan was waiting for me. I blanked him and took my helmet out the top box.
“Ms Cooper, you’re upset. Let me drive you back to Toverton Tower.”
“I don’t want a thing from him, and I know he’s pulling your strings, so just leave me alone.” I glanced back and saw hurt in Evan’s eyes. “I’m sorry. That wasn’t fair. I know you mean well, but I’m not accepting a lift from him.”
“Ms Cooper, Lord Toverton cares about you very much—as do I. It’s not safe to ride when you’re angry.”
I took a minute, calming my racing pulse as I considered his words. “I’m gonna ride, but I’ll take the route slowly, and you can follow behind. That’s the best I can do.”
Evan went to protest but saw my resolve. He nodded and got into the Range Rover. I flipped the kickstand and set off gently, following the Thames back to the City while ensuring I kept Evan in my mirrors.