5. Sienna
5
Sienna
"H ello, this is Sienna Westbrook."
"Ms. Westbrook, its Patricia Wilkins. I wanted to let you know that after careful consideration, my husband and I have decided to put out an offer on the Belmont properties."
My heart skips a beat as the words register. "Thats wonderful news Mrs. Wilkins. Im thrilled we could make this deal work."
"Yes, your guidance and expertise have been invaluable. Were excited to move forward with the purchase."
After finalizing the details, I hang up and let out a squeal of delight. My first sale in months!
When I first started in real estate, I naively thought it would be easy money just talk people into buying and collect the commission. But the last few months have been a harsh reality check. Without Lucass guidance, I would still be making amateur mistakes and losing out on deals.
Hes taught me so much how to identify properties with potential, how to find quality buyers, how to negotiate effectively. This sale, a commercial building, will net me a staggering $300,000 commission.
Our relationship has evolved from bitter rivals to...something more. Something so scary and still exhilarating. After my last relationship, the thought of being with another man never really occurred to me.
I quickly slip into the slinky black dress I bought for our dinner tonight. I spray a few spritzes of my favorite perfume and use a touch of red lipstick to complete the look. I cant wait to see the look on Lucass face when he sees me.
The doorbell rings and my heart flutters with excitement. I smooth down my dress one last time before opening the door, expecting Lucass smoldering gaze. But the man standing there isnt Lucas!
"David?" I gasp, feeling the blood drain from my face. My ex-fianc and Lilys father stands before me with an awkward smile plastered on his face.
"Hey baby, youre looking good," his eyes roam over me in a way that makes my skin crawl.
"What are you doing here?" I fold my arms across my chest. The last time I saw him was over seven years ago when he walked out of my pregnant life without a second glance.
David shrugs nonchalantly and steps inside without an invitation. "Just thought Id stop by, see how my girls were doing."
My jaw clenches at his audacity. "Your girls? You lost that right when you abandoned us."
He holds up his hands in surrender. "I know, I know. I was young and stupid back then. But Ive had a lot of time to think, and I want to be a part of Lilys life now."
Blood rushes to my face as Davids words sinks in. The audacity of this man to waltz back into our lives after all these years like he has some sort of claim.
"Get out," I seethe through gritted teeth. "You dont have any rights here. Not after what you did."
An infuriating smirk plasters his face. "Hey, Im Lilys father whether you like it or not. I have every right to be in her life."
I scoff. "Her life? You mean the life you willingly abandoned seven years ago? The one where I was left struggling as a single mother while you went off gallivanting?"
He shrugs nonchalantly. "Oh come on baby. Lets forget the past. Ive grown up a lot since then and now I want to make things right."
David takes a step closer and he reaches out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind my ear. I flinch away from his touch.
"Dont act like you didnt miss this," he murmurs huskily. "We were good together, Sienna. Really good."
I shake my head vehemently. "That was a long time ago. Im not that naive girl anymore."
His gaze drops to my lips. "I can see that. Youve become one hell of a sexy woman."
Before I can react, David grips my waist and pulls me flush against him. I shove him away forcefully.
"How dare you You dont get to just waltz back in here and pick up where you left off like nothing happened!"
David runs a hand through his hair. "Come on, Sienna. We both know you still want me, deep down. That fire hasnt gone out."
Before I can respond, he grips my waist again and pulls me flush against him. His lips crash onto mine in a searing kiss. Im too stunned to react.
Thats when I notice the figure in the doorway - Lucas, his expression unreadable. Our eyes lock for a moment and I see the confusion, hurt and anger flickering in his steel blue gaze. I push David away and wipe my mouth in disgust.
"Lucas..." I breathe out, taking a step towards him. But its too late, hes already turning on his heel and striding away down the hallway.
"Lucas, wait!" I call after him, but he doesnt stop. Doesnt even look back.
Panic grips me as I realize what this must look like to him.
I whirl on David "Get out! Get out right now before I call the police!"
He holds up his hands in mock surrender, with that infuriating smirk still on his face. "Okay, okay. Im going. Just think about what I said, alright?"
Giving me one last appraising look, David saunters out of my house.