I'm flabbergasted, and again, I find myself at a loss for words in front of this man.
Well, I admit I'm kind of playful when it comes to my relationships, but what should one expect? I'm very young, and I don't have plans to marry anytime soon! I explore and experience things just like a girl my age should, and I think there's no harm in that.
It isn't a secret in my social circle that I'm a little playful, and as someone who comes from a reputable, wealthy family in this big town, it isn't impossible for people outside my circle to hear things about me.
People always have things to talk about, and Ryde works at the biggest resort hotel in town, where he must have heard the gossip of wealthy guests.
I chuckle lightly.
"Look, some people gossip about me, but it's not what you think. I have ex-boyfriends, alright, but that doesn't mean I'm a playgirl!"
I take a step closer, and now I'm standing two feet away, with his massive body and height towering over me.
His eyes are mocking me so loudly that I can almost hear his mockery screaming in my face!
Damn, I'm offended. Does he think I'm just someone who easily takes boyfriends and dumps them without any valid reason?
"Okay, let's see then. Have you had a long-term boyfriend before?" he asks.
I can't answer right away, and my silence alone makes him smirk darkly, as if he has proven his point.
"I didn't have… but I guess that's because of my bad taste in boys?" I smile cutely.
I'm not very playful. I am actually a caring girlfriend, but most of the time, I always end up finding a fault with my boyfriends, like them being overly controlling, protective, and very insecure! I don't want a boyfriend who will always try to control me or nag me, yet those boys always end up doing just that.
I also hate boys who make me feel bad if I'm not saying yes to their whims. I've had my fair share of playful experiences, but I'm still a little old school.
I've never done the deed with any of my boyfriends because I just don't feel enough passion for it. I feel like it's not yet the right time, and some boys don't understand that. Guilt trips don't work well on me because I'm not easily manipulated.
"I don't know what you heard about me, but I'm a nice girl, Ryde," I say with my sweetest voice.
His face darkens, and he stares at me longer without saying anything. I can't read what he's thinking. His expression is unreadable.
"I don't think so," he finally says, his jaw clenching a bit, and his eyes almost look furious. "You look like a bad little girl who needs some discipline, Ms. Avory."
I laugh at how he pictures me.
"Come on! You barely know me. You cannot simply trust gossip, Ryde."
"Sorry, but I don't date little girls. You are too young for my taste," he says ruthlessly, leaving my mouth agape.
First, he accuses me of being a playgirl, which he doesn't like, and now he's saying I'm too young for his taste? Oh boy, you've got to be kidding me!
Do I look like a minor who just experienced the first signs of puberty? I'm sure not!
"How old are you anyway? Do you date grandmas?" I can't help my bitterness.
He smirks, and I see the amusement in his eyes. He's amused that I'm getting annoyed. It must be what he wants. To annoy me so I'll stop pestering him and leave him alone.
But no, Ryde, I'm now more motivated to change your opinion of me. I'm determined to make you like me, so you'll eat your own words. I will regain my pride, you'll see.
"So, how old are you?" His lack of reply makes me repeat my question.
He gives me a bored look as if he's not interested in indulging me in the topic I've chosen. Before he can decide whether to answer me or shoo me away, my phone in my handbag rings.
When I see who's calling, I have no choice but to answer it right away.
"Adam told me that you are in the building. Why aren't you in my office yet? Did something happen?" My dad's stern voice sounds a little worried.
"No, Dad. I'll be there in a few," I say, and I end the call.
"Go ahead and leave me alone, Ms. Avory. I'm here for work, not to entertain your silly business," Ryde says, looking past me.
I turn behind me and see that his co-workers are coming back with carts of food. I sigh and look at Ryde, whose attention is no longer on me.
"I'll go ahead. See you!" I smile at him, and he glances at me.
He doesn't say anything, and I turn away with my heart feeling a little heavy.
As soon as I'm on the stairs, my smile is gone. I guess I just didn't expect to be rejected like that.
I'm the beautiful Blair Avory, the only daughter of two of the most respected people in Raven Coast, and even in the whole country. Suitors line up at my feet, begging for my attention. Many people love my personality, and I'm adored wherever I go. I'm spoiled by my parents.
Why would he dare reject me? Those rich boys are begging for my attention! And here he is, a labor worker, rejecting me?!
I laugh hysterically as I march my way to my dad's office.
"Are you feeling unwell, Miss Blair?" Victor asks from behind.
"Yes, I'm fine! Why wouldn't I be?" I reply, irritated. I'm annoyed at how that man easily rejected me!
I get that he's much older and probably likes women his age, but I didn't even see any hesitation when he told me those words! He should have hesitated at least. Obviously, I'm a catch! I'm pretty and rich!
And yet… he cruelly rejected me.