Saving Ms Gothel, page 8
part #7 of Middleton Prep Series
Well, I was hoping to spend time with this handsome guy I know.
*staggers backward* Who is it? I’ll dispatch him at once!
LOL. You know it’s you, so stop with all the fuss.
;) You like it when I make a fuss.
Why yes I do, but I’m not going to admit that. Zellie grinned.
I think you just like the reactions you get when you make a fuss.
As long as those reactions are from you.
Zellie giggled. He never stops. She sighed. And I never want him to.
So ... about New Years.
Yeah, would you like to go to a party at the Gruffman’s?
Zellie chewed her lip and smiled. Maybe I’ll see Tia!
Are you sure that’s going to be okay? I don’t want to intrude or anything?
Nah, Brody’s older brother Quentin is hosting. His house is a mansion. Or castle. Or, whatever. It was the same place Tia and Brody had their wedding at. I always have a standing invitation. Only this time I’ll have a beautiful woman on my arm. ;)
Flatterer.
You know it.
You sure it won’t be weird if I come? Please say it’s okay. Her heart fluttered at the idea of dressing up and being on Hank’s arm. Just the setting for a romantic evening.
Absolutely. It would be weirder for me to not have a date since I have a girlfriend.
Alrighty then, I would love to come. It’ll be another first for me.
What will?
I’ve never been to a New Year’s party before.
Sweet! I’ll pick you up at eight.
Sounds great.
Hank sent a thumbs up and the conversation ended.
Zellie mentally ran through her wardrobe and decided she might need a new dress. Going to a party at a millionaire’s home probably required something fancier than her normal running shoes and t-shirts. With an excited squeal, she leaped out of bed to hit the shower.
And maybe, just maybe, I’ll get my New Year’s kiss.
HANK WHISTLED LOW UNDER his breath as he looked Zellie up and down. “Holy cannoli, Zellie. Wow.” Hank rubbed the back of his neck, his whole body felt overheated and it took every bit of self-control he had not to grab her and kiss the smile right off her face. I should be sainted for this. No man should put through this type of torture.
He had worked hard to take their relationship slow so that Zellie felt comfortable, even though his own desires wanted to go at breakneck speed. But she was quickly consuming his every thought and he wasn’t sure how much longer he could hold back from kissing and holding her the way he wanted to.
She stood in front of him with her long, blonde hair curled into beachy waves, in a shimmering green dress that highlighted her eyes. A slit came just above her knee and gave an intoxicating glimpse of her perfectly shaped legs and barbie style high heels. Heaven help me.
With firm resolve, he turned and put his arm out for the woman in front of him. “You look beautiful, Z. You’ll outshine every other woman there. May I escort you to the car?”
He watched a blush work its way up her neck and cheeks and felt his lips twitch in amusement at her embarrassment. “Thank you,” she whispered before taking his offered elbow.
Carefully, he led her down the steps, watching for patches of ice in the concrete, before settling her in the car. Once she was seated and buckled, she looked up at him as he stood in the door.
Reaching out, he ran a knuckle down her cheek. “I’m the luckiest guy alive tonight.”
Her answering smile was all he needed to have him floating as he walked around to his seat.
The drive to Quentin’s house was quiet, but not uncomfortable. Hank reached over and took Zellie’s hand, enjoying how small and soft she felt. Her perfume floated through the air in the car and Hank discreetly took a deep inhale, memorizing her unique, floral fragrance.
As they got closer to their destination, he heard Zellie gasp as she looked out the window. Quentin Gruffman lived in one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in their area. All of the houses surrounding him were large, pristine mansions that spoke of history and wealth. And although Zellie had seen Quentin’s impressive house during the summer, tonight it was lit up with Christmas lights and other decorations that made it sparkle as if it were made from diamonds.
“Oh my goodness. It’s beautiful” Zellie breathed, her voice gave away her awe.
“Yep,” Hank replied.
“I’ve never seen anything like it! Except maybe in the movies.”
Hank chuckled. “I’m obviously not as wealthy as Quent, but when they were all boys I spent a lot of time at their house. Brody and I were best buds early on, so I guess I’ve gotten used to it.”
Zellie shook her head, her jaw still open. “I don’t know how you can get used to this.”
Hank just smiled and shook his head, before pulling into Quentin’s driveway. After turning off the engine, he turned to look at Zellie. “So, uh, you should know that Quentin is a really good guy. The best.”
Zellie frowned. “Why do I feel a ‘but’ coming here? I met him at the wedding if you recall.”
“Yeah, I remember. I just,” Hank reached over and took both her hands and squeezed them. “I just wanted to warn you. You’ve met Brody, and you know how he can be kinda moody, but still has a soft side. The brother in the middle, Finley, he’s all charm. He’d charm the wig off an old lady if given the chance.”
Zellie snorted, then covered her grin.
Hank smiled before continuing. “But Quent, well, Quent is the dark, quiet one. Take Brody’s surliness, multiply it by ten, and don’t give him the hidden fun-loving side.”
Zellie’s eyes widened. “You make him sound horrible. I didn’t get that vibe from him at all. I mean, he wasn’t uber friendly, but he was nice enough.”
“Nah, not horrible. Just ... intense, and kinda hard. Just don’t be surprised, or offended, if he doesn’t really remember you. It has nothing to do with you and everything to do with him.” Hank opened his door and got out; walking around to get Zellie.
He offered his arm again and she accepted. As they walked to the door, he whispered in her ear. “He’s known for making grown businessmen cry with his icy stare. So, just don’t worry if he seems kinda ornery. He had to be on his best behavior for the wedding, but who knows about tonight.”
Zellie shivered as he spoke and Hank hoped it was from his proximity and not from the cold. Because heaven help him, her touch left him hot enough to start a fire.
“So noted,” Zellie responded quietly as they approached the front door.
Hank didn’t bother to knock, he was basically family, after all. Walking in, the first thing he noticed was the butler frowning at him. “Watson, my good man! How are you?”
Watson raised an eyebrow before giving a small tilt of his chin. “Very good, sir. Thank you.”
Hank slapped the man on the shoulder. “Glad to hear it.” Hank looked around at all the decorations and lights. The air was filled with the sweet scent of cinnamon and sugar and soft classical music wafted slowly around the space. “Looks like Quent outdid himself.”
Watson gave a single nod before turning his head towards Zellie.
“Can I help you with your coat, ma’am?”
“Thank you,” Zellie murmured quietly. Hank could tell she was still in shock from everything. He grinned when he thought of showing her the fireworks that would take place at midnight. Once their coats were stored, Hank took Zellie’s hand and led her further into the house.
ZELLIE’S MOUTH FELT like it had suddenly been filled with cotton balls and no amount of swallowing could rectify the situation. Oh, my gosh. I’m so far over my head. The house with its pristine marble floors and white crown molding was the epitome of grace and wealth. And completely intimidating. It didn’t seem nearly as overwhelming at the wedding. Maybe because there were hundreds of people here?
Zellie felt like she was a bull in a china shop as they walked into the large room where all the guests were. One wrong move and I’m just sure I’ll break something.
She glanced up at Hank, who was watching her with sympathy as if he understood what was going through her head. When he gave her hand a squeeze, she immediately felt better. She squeezed his hand back, put a brave smile on her face and faced the room.
Hank pulled her into his side, tucking her under his arm and leaned down to whisper in her ear. “There are Brody and Tia,” he said, pointing to a couple tucked into a corner of the room. “I don’t think we should go say ‘hello’ quite yet,” he said with a chuckle.
Zellie giggled. It was easy to see the two were only wrapped up in each other. “Yeah, I think you might be right.”
“And that is Finley,” Hank pointed at a large man surrounded by several beautiful women. He stood above them like a greek god, smiling at his admirers.
“Good heavens.” Zellie looked up at Hank. “He’s bigger than Brody, but I’m not sure anyone is bigger than Quentin. That man is a giant.” She narrowed her eyes and looked back at Finley just as he winked at the women hanging on his every word. “Sheesh. If he’s not careful, he’s gonna make someone faint.”
Hank threw back his head and laughed.
Zellie felt heat travel up her neck and cheeks as people looked at the two of them to see what was going on. Turning she tucked her face into Hank’s chest, embarrassed to be the center of attention.
“Oh, Zellie. You are so refreshing.” Hank sighed and wiped a tear from his eye. “I warned you Finley was the charmer.” He looked down at Zellie with amusement dancing through his eyes.
“Yes, you did. And you weren’t kidding,” she muttered.
“Hello, Hank,” a dark, gravelly voice interrupted their conversation.
Zellie jerked her head back to see who had joined them. Oh my gosh. Speak of the devil.
“Hey, Fin. How’s it going?” Hank was coolness personified and Zellie felt slightly jealous that she was struggling to breathe while he chatted.
“Very well, thank you,” Finley responded while casually tucking his hands in his pants pockets. His very mannerisms spoke of breeding and power and Zellie struggled to feel as if she had any right to be here.
“Finley, this is Rapunzel or Zellie.” Hank squeezed Zellie and smiled widely.
With a light smirk, Finley put out his hand. “It’s not to meet you, Zellie.”
“Nice to meet you too,” Zellie choked out. Come on girl, snap out of it! He’s just a man, not a god. She wrapped her arm around Hank’s waist and found comfort in the warmth of his body.
“How do you know Hank?” Finley’s dark eyes bore into hers. Zellie couldn’t tell if he was laughing at her or was truly curious, and the thought of him finding amusement in her scared state sent a zing through her backbone.
Straightening her shoulders, she put just enough distance between her and Hank to prove that she was standing on her own feet before answering. “I’m good friends with Tia. I met Hank at Thanksgiving last year.”
“Ah, you must teach at the school then.”
“I do.” Zellie raised a challenging brow. “I’m one of the P.E. teachers.”
Finley’s eyes widened for just a fraction of a second before narrowing. “P.E. Impressive.” His eyes wandered down her body and then back up. He nodded. “It obviously works for you.”
“Alright Fin, enough. Leave the poor girl alone.” Hank pulled Zellie to his other side, putting himself between her and Finley.
Finley chuckled. “I’m just having fun, Hank. Surely she wasn’t offended?” Finley raised his eyebrows and leaned around Hank so he could see Zellie again.
Zellie rolled her eyes. I guess jerks come in all economic groups. “Come on, Hank. I’m thirsty.” She took Hank’s hand and started walking towards one of the buffet tables.
Hank grinned widely as she pulled him away and sent a mock salute to Finley. “See ya later, Finny boy!”
Finley shook his head, gave a light laugh and headed back to his circle of admirers.
Hank slowed Zellie down so he could lean down and talk to her. “Most women fall at his feet, you know.”
Zellie grunted. “I can’t imagine why.”
Hank grinned and shook his head, but didn’t speak.
When they got to the buffet table, Zellie took in the enormous spread. How in the world is that table not buckling under the pressure? Good grief!
Hank let go of Zellie and rubbed his hands together.” And now we come to the best part!”
Zellie giggled. “Men. Always in it for the food.”
Hank looked at her and raised an eyebrow. “Food and beautiful women.”
Zellie smiled, her eyes falling to the floor as she worked to keep her blush at bay, but it was a useless exercise.
After loading their plates, they found seats on the side of the room, away from the crowds.
“Mmm ... this is delicious.” Zellie savored the flavor spreading across her tongue from the puff pastry she had bit into.
“I wonder if Tia had anything to do with these?” Hank asked as he took another bite.
Zellie nodded. Her friend was an exceptional baker and very well could have had a hand in the preparation.
“Nice to see you again, Hank.”
Once again, Zellie was caught off guard by a deep, gravelly timbre.
“Quent! Long time, no see!” Hank stood, put his plate on the chair and shook hands with Brody’s older brother. Stepping back slightly, he turned to Zellie. “Quentin, this is the lovely Zellie. You might remember her from the wedding.”
“Nice to see you again,” Quentin held out his large hand.
“Uh, hi.” She responded to his handshake. “It’s nice to see you again, too.” She looked back and forth between Hank’s grinning face and Quentin’s stony one. “Did you, uh, did you ever play football?” Zellie winced when she realized her thoughts had popped out of her mouth.
Quentin blinked then his eyebrows rose. “As a matter of fact, I did. But only in high school.”
Hank, who was hiding his laughter behind a fist, coughed a couple of times.
Zellie felt herself relax a little when Quentin answered her question. “Oh, really? You didn’t play college?”
“No.” Quentin’s answer was short and sharp and Zellie jumped a little. “I’d had enough of getting my head bashed in. I needed my brains and wits about me in order to take over my father’s business and so I pursued an education free from entanglements. Athletics or otherwise.”
“I see,” Zellie murmured. Embarrassment flooded her and she racked her brain to come up with a different topic.
“Zellie teaches P.E. at Middleton Prep,” Hank offered.
Quentin nodded sagely. “You enjoy teaching?” He directed his question toward Zellie.
“Uh, yeah. I mean yes, I do. After all, someone has to whip the rising generation into shape.” Ah, ha! Zellie watched Quentin’s lip twitch. He does have a sense of humor.
“How many physical education teachers are there?” Quentin asked.
“Just two of us. I work with a man who is like an adopted father to me.” She grinned. “Max is ex-military and between him and the students, I’m constantly on my toes.”
Quentin finally gave in to a small smile. “You seem like the kind of person who keeps Hank on his toes.”
Zellie laughed while Hank huffed. “I sure hope so!”
Quentin tugged on his sleeves and played with his cufflinks for a moment. “You.” He cleared his throat. “You work with Ms. White, don’t you?”
I knew he liked her. “Snow teaches second grade, so I don’t see her often. But yes.”
“If someone wished to get a hold of her, what would be the best way to do that?”
Zellie’s eyebrows shot up. “I’m surprised you didn’t get her number when you danced six months ago.”
“I’m afraid duty called, and I was unable to see her during the rest of the reception.” Quentin’s face was stoic, but Zellie thought he looked a little sad.
“I can get you her number, but I didn’t bring my cell with me tonight.”
A surprisingly gentle smile crossed his face. “Much appreciated. Thank you.” Quentin pounded a beefy hand on Hank’s shoulder. “Make sure she has a good time tonight.” With a polite nod, Quentin walked away to talk to other guests.
Hank rubbed his shoulder. “Dude leaves bruises.”
Zellie pinched her lips to keep from smiling at his pouting. Feeling bold after drawing out a smile from the scary businessman, she walked over to Hank and pressed her lips lightly to the spot next to his hand. “Better?” She asked, looking up into his brown eyes.
Zellie watched in fascination as they appeared to darken the longer they looked at each other.
“Better,” Hank’s voice was slightly hoarse and the sound sent a thrill through Zellie.
Her feet were frozen to the spot and her breath seemed to catch in her throat. Kiss me, Hank. Please kiss me.
Clearing his throat, Hank backed up a step. “Should we find Brody and Tia and say hi?” He stuffed his hands in his pockets.
Rejection hit Zellie square in the chest and her eyes fell to the carpet. “Uh, sure. I haven’t seen her in quite a while.” Putting her chin up, she quickly searched the room. When she finally spotted her friend, Zellie all but ran through the crowd to get to her.
Tia saw her coming and her smile widened. “Zellie! I didn’t know you were going to be here tonight! How have you been? You look gorgeous!” The two women embraced lightly, careful not to ruin each other’s hair and make-up.
“I, uh, I came with Hank,” Zellie explained while tucking a stray hair behind her ear.
“Hank! Good to see you!” Tia exclaimed, then turned and winked at Zellie.
Zellie rolled her eyes.
“‘Sup man?” Hank fist-bumped Brody, who Zellie hadn’t even paid attention to.
