Page 17 of The Fashion's Mogul's Secret Wish

Marie scoffed at the other end of the line. “A party? You expect me to drop everything and go to a party. That's a little presumptuous, don't you think?”

I winced at her words but understood her frustration. I had let her down, and now I had to face the consequences. "I understand why you're upset, Marie. However, this party is integral to the upcoming fashion week, and I’d like to have you there.”

“As what? You can’t just have me around whenever you want. Is my presence really that important? I could send someone else in my stead.”

“No. I need you there, either in a professional capacity, a friend or as a date.” Frustrating how we haven’t defined our relationship yet, it wasn’t like we had much going on at the moment.

Silence lingered for a moment before she sighed. “Karl, which is it? I could come as your guest, but we both know I’m not that.”

“Will you be my date then?” Although I liked to stay behind the scenes, having Marie in my arms would certainly be a good look.

“No. I’m busy. I’m sorry, I won’t be able to make it. Maybe next time.”

I felt a pang of pain in my chest. She was rejecting me; I wasn’t used to this.

“Is that so? You don’t even know when or where the party is taking place. Be honest and tell me why you don’t want to come?” I pressed on.

“Must I give a reason? I am a busy person and would most likely be unavailable whenever that is.” A giggle escaped her lips. It confirmed she was joking. I smiled slightly as I fell for it.

“Honestly, I know things could be better between us, just come. You can leave whenever you want. The party won’t be the same without your presence,” I said that more for me than anything else.

“I hear you. I’ll think about it. Send me the invite, I’ll get back to you when I’m done sleeping on it.” She wasn’t joking this time. It made me feel like my sister was talking to her.

“I’ll do that. Consider being my date as well.” While I was talking, I picked out my sketchbook and other drawing materials. I had a sudden inspiration.

“I will try. Bye, Karl. I’ve got to go.”

Relief flooded through me as I heard her words. It was a small victory, a step in the right direction. Bidding her farewell, I ended the call.I won’t lose you, Marie.

My inspiration was still foggy, but I had Marie in mind. I began sketching. After a while, I left my study. I saw Selena leaving the kitchen with some snacks. “Hey, come join us. We’re having fun, and you could use some of it.” She waved packs of chips at me.

I shrugged. I wasn’t in the mood for it; I might spoil the mood for them. “No, thanks. I need some time to finish some sketches. I’ll come hang out with you both in a few.”

I was about to walk past her when she said, “Marie?”

I sighed, shaking my head. “Not now.” She took the message and left. Walking out of the house, I had no particular place to be, so I strolled around the premises. Marie made me like this, or should I say my feelings for her, which I’m fighting. I chuckled to myself.There was a first time for everything.

Chapter 15

MARIE

Aknockonmydoor caught my attention. “Come in.” Morrison walked in with a bouquet of lilies.What is Morris thinking?He wasn’t the type of guy who expressed romantic feelings since he barely talked about anything personal. Such a move wasn’t what I expected from him. “Morris, what’s this?” Back home, I had received several bouquets of flowers from Howard, which I promptly disposed of. That man never seemed to learn. In fact, I was getting tired and nauseated with bouquets.

“Ma’am, this was delivered to my desk. I checked to confirm that you are the recipient. It didn’t say who, but I guess it’s from an admirer. Where should I put it?” He looked around and settled for my desk. I wasn’t the type of woman to keep flowers or vases around my office. I had no love for them. I guessed it would be Howard who had sent them again.

With disgust in my voice, I replied, “Throw it away and if you receive any more bouquets, you’re free to throw them away or take them home. Do with it as you please.”

Morris gave me a worried look, but I didn’t care to explain.

“What if this is from Mr. Penfield?” He gave me a wink and brought out a card from the bouquet. He opened it and read it out loud.

Dear Marie. This is just me trying to apologize for my previous actions. I know I was out of line. Take this as a token of my love and remorse….”With a look of annoyance on his face he uttered,Howard.

“Now that your curiosity is satisfied, get that bouquet out of here.”

He sighed, crushing the card. Before he left, he came closer to my table. “Ma’am, Mr. Penfield is hosting a party and it’s the talk of the city. I’m aware you’ve received an invite, but you’ve not indicated if you’ll be attending yet. Why?”

“Sometimes, Morris, it’s best if you don’t know everything. Anyway, I’m still thinking about it. Do what I asked of you.”

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