Page 41 of Double Devotion

“I understand,” I embrace him warmly. “It’s perfect.”

He parks the Porsche in his private parking spot. We step out, happy to stretch our legs and walk to the building.

“Hello, everyone!” he cries out as he walks inside.

“Hey Avi,” everyone responds at once.

“I would like to ask everyone to gather in the main conference room,” Maya, his assistant, urges everyone.

“I need to share a couple of things with you,” he adds.

The staff’s preparations and whispers disrupt the silence. We both head to the room and wait for everyone to arrive. “I’ve summoned all of you here today to give you a couple of updates,” he begins. “I’m aware that our company is currently at the height of its success. And yet, sadly, recently I’ve been dealing with a couple of personal issues that prevent me from optimally running the company. Therefore, in other words, I find myself reconsidering things. Most of you know that my grandmother’s condition is deteriorating. Unfortunately, I sense the end is near and I desperately need some time to rest. After years of having neglected my personal affairs and completely dedicating myself to our work and success, I feel that I should make some time to address other concerns in my life. I’ve already notified Ben, my right-hand man these past couple years, that I would like him to take over for me, for an undetermined period of time. Of course, Tony will keep me posted so, if necessary, I’ll be here to support you from afar. I need a break. So, to new beginnings!” He concludes and lifts one of the glasses Maya had prepared beforehand.

“To new beginnings!” Everyone repeats and applauds.

“Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m in a hurry and need to head out,” he leaves no time for the wound to heal. “Wishing you all a good day, until we meet again.”

He grabs my hand and we both step out, leaving his staff speechless.

“Wow, what a speech!” I exclaim. He keeps marching as he pulls my arm behind him.

“I meant it,” he emphasizes and embraces me warmly.

“Where should we go from here?”

“Let’s go grab a bite,” he pulls my hand and leads be back to the Porsche. The car pulls over at a modern brunch restaurant. There are celebrities, models and businessmen among the diners.

“Is this a place for rich people only?” I joke.

“No, my lovely. It’s a place for hungry people only,” he chuckles as he pulls out the chair for me. I sit down. The owner greets us happily, warmly shakes his hand and pats his shoulder.

“My man! I missed you! Where have you been? I’ve barely seen you lately. And where’s Michael, that stud. His fans still come here every day hoping to see him,” he snickers.

Avi smiles. “Well, Sammy, that really isn’t news. What can I tell you, life isn’t a bed of roses.” He takes a deep breath and stifles his tears. “I’ve been going through some things, as we all are, you know. Thank you for asking. But actually, my girlfriend and I have come here to have a light breakfast and then we’ll be on our way,” he hints, quite unsubtly. I smile. His girlfriend?!

“Yes, yes, of course,” Sammy gets the hint immediately. “What would you like to have?”

“Let’s go off menu; just keep the delicious treats coming. Let’s make an impression on this gorgeous woman of mine.”

“You really don’t need to do that,” I quickly object. “I’m not that hungry. I’m pretty stuffed. Something light will certainly do.”

We both agree and a couple of moments later, they start piling our table with beef carpaccio, sashimi, special tortillas and other appetizers. Our table is packed with exquisite colors, smells and flavors. We start to dig in, savoring the delightful flavors and textures, when we suddenly hear a woman’s voice.

“Avi?” A stunning woman in her early twenties looks at him with her hazel eyes.

“Lee, what are you doing here?” He instantly stands up and hugs her warmly.

My heart wrenches. I’m physically in pain! Was I just jealous? What’s wrong with me? I only met him yesterday! I immediately berate myself.

“I’m here with Natali, you surely remember she likes eating here. It’s so wonderful to see you! Both of you,” she corrects herself and then looks at me. I’m overwhelmed with embarrassment and anxiety starts creeping up my body.

“This is Sam,” he points at me, and we shake hands.

“I’ve been trying to reach you for more than a week,” she looks straight into his eyes. “Is everything alright? When are we going to see you around?” She licks her lips. “I really miss you.”

“Lee,” his expression immediately turns serious. “Come with me for a second,” he asks, and walks with her to an isolated corner, however, still in sight. They start whispering.

I look at them and sense a pinch of pain as he hugs her, caresses her head and wipes her tear away. He patiently explains to her that hurting her is the last thing he wants. Finally, she falls silent, looks at me, sadly takes the purse she had left back in her seat, and storms out.

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