Today, I've decided to take a day for myself, just like I used to do when I was still married. It's become somewhat of a habit, finding solace and clarity amidst the tranquility of the park. Despite the passage of time, some things never change, and the familiar routine of solitude still offers me comfort in moments of uncertainty.
As I wander through the peaceful surroundings, memories of those days gone by flood my mind, reminding me of the strength I found in moments of quiet reflection. Amidst the hustle and bustle of life, these moments of solitude serve as a reminder to prioritize self-care and introspection, nurturing my soul and providing a much-needed respite from the chaos of the outside world.
I really do miss hanging out with my kids though. I cannot wait for the weekend to come.
I wonder who's calling me…
As my phone continues to ring, I sigh inwardly, knowing that my moment of solitude is about to be interrupted.
With a reluctant glance at the caller ID, I see it's Candy, my salon manager, on the line. Her voice carries a note of frustration as she explains the situation unfolding at the salon. It seems that a difficult customer is refusing to leave without speaking to the owner – me.
The prospect of heading to work and dealing with the situation dampens my mood, especially when I had been looking forward to some much-needed alone time. With a resigned sigh, I gather my things and prepare to leave, reminding myself that duty calls, even when it's least convenient.
Candy's voice crackles through the car speakers as I navigate the familiar route to the salon, her urgency evident even through the static of the connection.
"Kattie, thank goodness you're picking up,"
She begins, her tone fraught with tension. I know this one too well. She can call five times to tell you one thing if it frustrates her.
"The situation here with this customer who's refusing to leave until he speaks with you is getting intense. He's freaking out other customers now, he's so mysterious. I don't understand because there was no mistake with the service he got."
I can hear the frustration in her voice, and I offer a sympathetic murmur in response.
"I'm on my way,"
I assure her, my grip tightening on the steering wheel as I navigate through traffic.
"Can you give me some more details?"
I ask, wanting to be prepared for whatever awaits me at the salon. Candy's voice comes through in a rush as she fills me in on the specifics of the situation, and I listen intently, mentally preparing myself for the task ahead. Despite my initial irritation at the interruption to my alone time, a sense of determination settles over me as I focus on resolving the issue at hand.
What could be the problem? I don't know. Guess I'm about to find out.
As I step into the salon, a sense of urgency prickles at the back of my neck, amplified by the sight of my staff scurrying about like cats in a rainstorm.
Candy's presence at my side is a grounding force as she wordlessly directs my attention with a subtle nod towards my office. There, seated comfortably amidst the chaos, is a man in a sharp black suit, his demeanor exuding an air of confidence that sends a shiver down my spine.
With a silent exchange, Candy and I share a knowing look, a silent acknowledgment of the storm brewing within the confines of my own domain. Steeling myself for what lies ahead, I square my shoulders and approach, ready to face whatever challenges this unexpected visitor may bring.
With a composed demeanor, I stride into my office, meeting the man's gaze with a polite yet firm nod of acknowledgment.
"Hi, sir,"
I begin, my voice steady despite the underlying tension in the air.
"I was informed that you wished to speak with the owner of this establishment. Well, here I am."
I gesture towards myself with a subtle sweep of my hand, a hint of determination gleaming in my eyes.
"What seems to be the problem?"
As I speak, I can't help but notice the striking beauty of his eyes, a captivating shade that draws me in despite the gravity of the situation. With a silent inward shake of my head, I push aside any distractions, focusing instead on the matter at hand and preparing myself to address whatever concerns he may have.
"Your stuff works wonders."
He says. What? Is this why he called me all the way here to compliment my stuff?
I can't help but raise an eyebrow in surprise at his unexpected comment.
"Thank you."
I reply, my tone laced with a hint of confusion.
"I'm glad to hear that you're satisfied with our services."
A perplexed frown tugs at my lips as I search his expression for any sign of ulterior motive. Could it be that he simply wanted to express his appreciation for our work? The notion seems unlikely, given the urgency of Candy's call and the tension in the air. With a sense of unease settling over me, I remain poised and attentive, waiting for him to reveal the true reason behind his visit.
Mirrors inside me recognize him but I don't know from where. I've never seen this man before but he feels so familiar. Strange. But not as strange as what he asks next.
But before I can dwell on the strangeness of it all, his unexpected request snaps me back to the present.
"I'm hungry, Queen."
He states casually, his tone devoid of urgency or pretense. The title catches me off guard, a jolt of surprise coursing through me at the unexpected address.
"Is it possible to get something to eat around here?"
His request hangs in the air, lingering between us like an unspoken invitation. Despite my initial confusion, I nod slowly, my curiosity piqued.
"Of course."
I reply, my voice steady despite the whirlwind of thoughts swirling within me.
"I can arrange for something to be brought to you."
With a sense of determination, I push aside the lingering sense of unease and focus on addressing his needs, determined to unravel the mysteries that surround him, one step at a time.
"Let's drive out of here. I'd like to take you out for lunch. My inner self would pinch me if I didn't ask."
His unexpected suggestion catches me off guard, my mind reeling with a mix of curiosity and caution.
"Drive out of here? For lunch?"
I echo, my tone betraying a hint of skepticism. The prospect of leaving the familiar confines of the salon with this enigmatic stranger sends a shiver of apprehension down my spine. Yet, despite the uncertainty lingering in the air, a part of me is drawn to the intrigue of his offer, a whisper of curiosity urging me to explore the unknown.
With a hesitant nod, I acquiesce, my resolve tinged with a sense of adventure.
"Alright stranger. On one condition. We're using my car. You will leave yours here."
I reply, my voice laced with a blend of authority , I'm not about to take no as an answer.
"Fine by me."
He says with a smirk I don't understand. What am I supposed to understand about a stranger anyways. As we make our way to my favorite Chinese restaurant, I can't shake the feeling of unease that lingers in the air.
His cryptic behavior and enigmatic presence only add to the sense of mystery that surrounds him.
"I hope you eat Chinese."
I remark casually, my eyes fixed on the road ahead. His response catches me off guard, his voice carrying a hint of amusement that sends a shiver down my spine.
"I love Chinese."
He replies, his words tinged with an unsettling familiarity that sends a chill racing down my spine. With a forced chuckle, I push aside my unease and focus on the task at hand, determined to unravel the mysteries that surround this enigmatic stranger.
"Waiting for an important call?"
I ask casually. He has been glued to his blank phone screen.
"Important , yes. But it's not a call. It's a text from your Manager. She took my numbers because she said she will share your contact details. I've been waiting."
As he reveals the true reason behind his fixation on his phone, a sense of amusement washes over me. Candy, my salon manager, had taken it upon herself to send him my contact information under the guise of a professional exchange.
The realization leaves me speechless, a mix of amusement and frustration bubbling within me.
"She must have liked you."
I quip, unable to suppress a laugh at the absurdity of it all. Candy wouldn't give out my numbers to strangers without my consent. I wonder where he came from and why he wants to treat me to lunch.
It's like he just read my mind.
"I have been stalking you. I knew what to expect when I asked for the owner. Your stuff was like scared little kids caught stealing candy , it was amusing to watch."
He admits and laughs , I can't help but reciprocate the energy.
"You're creepy. My poor Manager was frustrated while all you were trying to do was score yourself a date? You're weird."
"Well, I'd do it again if it means seeing your beautiful face. I'll get them all lunch today, including the customers."
"Thanks for your kindness, Mr.?"
"My name is Zayn. Zayn Statham. You're Kattie right?"
"Yes. I'm not even going to ask who told you cause you are stalking me."
I say , rolling my eyes.
He laughs.
A contagious laugh he has.
"Yes Miss Johnson , I know your name."
He states , with that smirk again.
Why is he making me feel this way? I haven't felt like this since…Bradley!