~ LOVE IS BLIND ~

***** CHAPTER 48 *****

ONE WEEK LATER

Kristina was still furious with the way Urs had spoken to her in the elevator but was proud of herself at the way she had handled the situation. Kristina was usually one of those people that came up with a witty reply ten minutes later. But Kristina was on top form that morning and had put Urs in his place. If he wanted to act that way then it was fine with her, two can play that game. She knew he didn’t love her anymore so what was the point in trying to be polite to him when he was intent on being rude to her.

It was now a week later and Kristina hadn’t seen Urs since that morning. Kristina had just arrived at work only to be given a message that as soon as she arrived, Angie, her boss, wanted to see her straight away. Kristina had only been in Angie’s office for half an hour and her day was already going downhill.

“You have got to be kidding me!” Kristina exclaimed. “I can’t do this!”

“Why not? I thought you’d be pleased.” Angie said, surprised. “You’ve been here for what, two years now? I’ve never had any complaints about your work. You’re perfect for this job. I want you to be in charge of the whole campaign.”

“I’m sorry Angie.” Kristina said, shaking her head. “I appreciate you thinking of me for this job but I’m not doing it. You’ll have to find someone else.”

“No can do I’m afraid.” Angie replied, shaking her head. “Everything’s already been arranged.”

“What do you mean?” Kristina asked, shocked. “This is the first time you’ve mentioned this, how can everything be arranged?”

“I had to phone Mr Cowell and let him know who would be in charge so I gave him your name and he’s expecting you first thing tomorrow.” Angie said, as she handed Kristina a file. “You’d better take this home with you and read up on it. No doubt you’ll both have questions for each other.”

Kristina took the file from Angie, speechless. This had to be a dream, no, a nightmare. The first campaign that she was put in charge of and she had to turn it down. Except her manager, Angie, wouldn’t let her. Tomorrow she had to meet Simon Cowell. She was to be the publicist for his new popera act, Il Divo. How on earth was she supposed to avoid Urs now?

“What if I told you I would quit unless you give this job to someone else.” Kristina said.

“I would say don’t be so stupid.” Angie replied. “What’s got in to you? You haven’t even looked at the file so how can you say you don’t want the job?”

“Because I’m not ready to run a campaign like this.” Kristina replied.

“You’re being stupid again.” Angie said, taking the file from Kristina. “You’re more than ready for this job. And look at this, there are four great looking men in the group. Just take a look at their pictures.”

“I don’t need to see the pictures, Angie.” Kristina said, walking over to the window. “I’m not taking the job.”

“I’m sure you’ll change your mind when you see them, Kristina.” Angie said as she took their photographs out of the file. “One of them is really cute.”

“I said I don’t need to see their pictures.” Kristina said again, firmly.

“But just look.” Angie said, laying their pictures out on the table.

“Didn’t you hear me I said I…”

Kristina stopped when she turned and saw four large black and white photographs on the desk.

“I thought that would get your attention.” Angie said, smirking when she saw Kristina walk towards the desk, staring at the photographs.

Kristina was instantly drawn to the photograph of Urs and picked it up. He wasn’t wearing his glasses, his hair was shorter and not as curly and he was dressed in a tight black sweater. He looked stunning.

“You like him?” Angie asked.

“No.” Kristina said abruptly, as she put the photograph back down on the table.

“Well I’ve got my eyes on this one so if he’s single send him my way.” Angie said, as she showed Kristina the photograph.

“You like David?” Kristina said surprised.

“You know him?” Angie asked.

“I… sort of.” Kristina replied, wishing she had kept quiet.

“How?” Angie said.

Kristina sat down and looked at the photographs.

“Actually I know all of them.”

“Seriously?” Angie said, looking shocked. “Okay, details! Tell me how.”

Kristina picked up a photograph.

“Sebastien, I used to represent him when I ran my own business.”

Kristina then picked up another photograph.

“David, my ex-boyfriend back in America.”

“Oh. When I said he was cute I didn’t mean he was you know…” Angie said, looking a little embarrassed.

Kristina laughed. “Don’t worry Angie I know exactly what you mean.”

Kristina then picked up a third photograph.

“Carlos, my brother-in-law.”

“No way! That‘s Abigail‘s husband?” Angie said, still shocked. “That’s great! That will make your job a whole lot easier.”

“I’ve told you I’m not taking the job.” Kristina said, putting the photograph down.

“But why not?” Angie asked. “This job is perfect for you.”

Kristina didn’t reply.

“Come on then, you haven’t told me how you know this guy.” Angie said, pointing to the photograph of Urs.

Kristina looked at the photograph of Urs. It might only be a picture but he still had the same effect on her when she looked at his eyes; the inability to think clearly, to speak clearly, he set her pulse racing and left feeling weak at the knees.

“Look, if you can give me one good reason why you can‘t do this campaign then I promise I will give it to someone else.” Angie said, leaning back in her chair.

“We just don’t get on.” Kristina replied. “I’d rather not see him again if I can help it.”

“Wrong answer.” Angie said, handing the file back to Kristina. “You’re a professional so I know you won’t let that get in the way of your job.”

“But.. I can’t… you don‘t understand, Angie.” Kristina stuttered.

“Tell me why!” Angie said.

“I… I can‘t.” Kristina said, sighing. “It’s a long story.”

“I’m sorry, Kristina.” Angie said, getting up from her seat. “But like I said earlier, it’s all arranged you have to do this.”

***** CHAPTER 49 *****

Kristina stepped out of the taxi and looked up at the Sony BMG offices. She hadn’t been here since she had bumped in to Urs. She wasn’t looking forward to going back inside and only hoped that Urs wasn’t there. Kristina had to meet with Simon but she didn’t know how long that was going to go on for. Hopefully it wouldn’t take too long and she could get everything sorted out and then leave. She could make all the arrangements from her own office and only have to come here when she really needed to. Kristina knew she would have to meet Urs sometime she just hoped that it wouldn’t be today. Simon would probably want to introduce her to Il Divo at some point because as far as he was aware she didn’t know them. And after all she could hardly promote a group she had never met.

The elevator doors opened and Kristina made her way down the hallway. Kristina knew where Simon’s office was after being here several days ago. She could see the big black doors ahead and started to get that sick feeling in her stomach again. She knew there was nothing to be nervous about. Simon Cowell had a reputation for being rude and abrupt but Kristina had dealt with people a lot worse than Simon and couldn’t see it being a problem. The only person that was going to be a problem was Urs. Kristina knocked on the door and waited for a reply. Within seconds she was greeted by a young woman with brown eyes and long curly hair.

“You must be Kristina.” the young woman said holding her hand out.

“Yes I am.” Kristina replied, shaking the young woman’s hand. “I‘m not late am I?” she added, checking her watch.

“No, it’s just you’re the only person Simon is due to see this morning so it didn’t take much guessing who you were.” she replied, laughing. “By the way, I’m Lilly, Simon‘s personal assistant.”

“Nice to meet you, Lilly.”

“Simon won’t be long, he‘s on the phone at the moment.” Lilly said, as she closed the door after Kristina. “Did you want anything to drink while you wait?”

“Could I just have some water please?” Kristina asked, as she opened her bag.

“Are you sure that’s all you want? We’ve got tea, coffee and a few other things.” Lilly said, pointing to a small table in the corner, filled with all sorts of drinks.

“No, water will be just fine thank you.” Kristina replied, as she took two tablets out of a small bottle before putting it back in her bag.

“Headache?” Lilly asked, when she saw the tablets and handed Kristina a glass of water.

“Something like that.” Kristina replied, taking the water from her. “Thanks.”

“I guess it must be a stressful job.” Lilly replied, gesturing for Kristina to take a seat. “Dealing with all these producers, trying to keep them all happy. Especially if they’re anything like Simon.”

“It can be stressful but I love my work.” Kristina replied. “Most of the time I’m left alone to do my job, that’s what they pay me for, my ideas. And I’m sure Simon’s not as bad as they all make out. I think his bark is worse than his bite. If you ask me I think it‘s all an act. Another publicity stunt.”

“It seems there’s no fooling you.”

Kristina turned to see Simon standing in the door way and blushed.

“Simon, this is Kristina.” Lilly said, getting up from her seat and giving Kristina her water. “The new publicist.”

Kristina stood up and walked over to Simon.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Kristina said, holding her hand out. “And I’m sorry, I didn’t mean for you to overhear that.”

“Obviously.” Simon said, shaking her hand. “Follow me.”

Simon turned and walked back in to his office as Kristina glanced at Lilly, giving her a nervous look. But Lilly smiled and winked at her, as if to say ‘you’ll be fine‘.

Simon closed the door after Kristina and sat down behind his desk.

“Well take a seat then.” Simon said, pointing to a chair opposite him.

Kristina sat down.

“So you think it’s all an act do you?” Simon asked, grinning.

Kristina wasn’t sure what to say but seeing as Simon had already heard what she thought about his behaviour, she didn’t see any point in denying it.

“Yes I do. Am I right?” Kristina asked. “It does seem a little over the top sometimes but the audience seem to love it.”

Simon smiled. “Yes, you’re right. I think you and me are going to get on just fine. Now let‘s get down to business. You know why you‘re here I take it.”

Kristina nodded. “Yes, you want me to promote your new popera group, Il Divo.”

“Okay, so tell me a bit about yourself first, tell me what other work you have done.” Simon said, as he sat back in his chair. “Then we can talk about Il Divo.”

As soon as Kristina started to talk about her career she began to relax and forgot all about the possibility of running in to Urs. Kristina told Simon about her previous campaigns and Simon seemed genuinely impressed with Kristina’s work. They spent the next two hours discussing Il Divo and the image that Simon had in mind. Kristina had read the file which Angie had given her the previous night and already had a few suggestions which Simon seemed keen to follow up on.

“Would you like to meet the guys?” Simon asked.

“They’re here?” Kristina asked, looking surprised.

Simon nodded. “Yes, they’ve been here going through some paperwork most of this morning. Then this afternoon they are due to sing for me. It will be the first time I’ll hear them sing. In fact why don’t you stay for lunch and then you can hear them sing as well.”

“Oh… I don’t know.” Kristina replied, desperately trying to think of an excuse.

“I think it would be a good idea for you to meet them all.” Simon said, as he got up from his chair. “It will give you a chance to get a feel for their characters and see how it works with the group image.”

“I’m not sure if you know but I already know all of them.” Kristina said quietly. “So really… there’s no need for us to meet again.”

Simon turned to face Kristina.

“You already know them? Well let’s go, I’m sure they will be pleased to see you.”

Simon led the way out of the office and Kristina followed wishing that she had kept quiet.

The two of them stepped in to the elevator and thoughts of Urs started to go through Kristina’s mind. She was dreading seeing him again, especially after what had happened between them that morning in the elevator. She only hoped that Urs would be polite to her and wouldn’t make a scene in front of the others.

“This way.” Simon said, as they stepped out of the elevator and headed down the hallway. “They’re probably still in Saskia’s office, going through all that paperwork.” Simon added, as he pointed to a door at the end of the hall.

Kristina looked to where Simon was pointing and saw David appear from Saskia’s office.

“Thank goodness that’s all done.” David said, rubbing the back of his neck. “I was bored stiff sitting there.”

“I know exactly how you feel, my friend.” Sebastien said, following David out of the office. “If it wasn’t for your stomach making that noise and keeping me awake, I would have fallen asleep along time ago.”

Kristina couldn’t help giggling to herself. David and his stomach, he was always hungry.

“You heard that?” David asked, looking embarrassed. “I didn’t think it was that loud.”

Carlos then appeared.

“You need to get your hearing checked, David. If you couldn’t hear that then you must be deaf.”

Urs was the last to appear and Kristina caught her breath when she saw him. The picture that Angie had shown to her yesterday didn’t do him justice. He looked incredible. His hair was slicked back, curling up slightly at the bottom. He was wearing dark blue jeans, a black t-shirt with a black shirt over the top of it. He really did look amazing but Kristina missed the old Urs, the curls, the cute clever look with the glasses. She continued to stare at Urs before realising that he was looking straight at her. She lowered her eyes as she and Simon approached the four men.

“I understand you all know this young lady.” Simon said, stopping in front of them.

“Well I certainly do.” Carlos said, as he kissed Kristina on the cheek before hugging her. “She is my sister in law.”

“Abigail’s sister?” Simon asked, looking at Carlos.

Carlos nodded. “Si, Abby‘s sister.”

“Hi Krissy.” David said, hugging Kristina. “Cooking lessons start on Monday.” he whispered into her ear. Kristina giggled before stepping back from David.

Urs looked at Kristina and held his hand out. “Hello Kristina.”

David watched the two of them as Kristina took Urs’ hand and he leant in and kissed her on the cheek. Considering Kristina was still in love with Urs, she looked nervous. David put it down to the fact that Saskia was standing behind Urs and maybe she felt uncomfortable.

“Hello Urs.” Kristina replied, quietly.

“Lovely to see you again so soon, Kristina.” Sebastien said, stepping forward and hugging her. “Simon, did you know Kristina helped me with my career back in Paris.”

“It looks as if she will he helping you again.” Simon replied. “I’ve just hired Kristina as my new publicist. She will be helping me to promote you guys.”

“That’s great!” David said, with a huge smile. “Congratulations Krissy,” he said, winking at her.

“Thanks.” Kristina said, smiling back at David.

“Are you all done?” Simon asked, looking at Saskia. “I wanted the guys to have lunch with me and Kristina.”

“Yes, we’re all done.” Saskia replied. “I’ll get the papers sent off this afternoon.”

“Great.” Simon said, ushering them down the hall. “Let’s go eat.”

“Wait a minute.” Urs said, stopping in the hall. “I had other plans. I wanted to take Saskia out for lunch.”

Kristina breathed a sigh of relief when she heard this. It meant she would be able to relax and eat in peace without Urs giving her angry looks.

“I’m sure Saskia won’t mind if you take a rain check.” Simon said, glancing at Saskia. “Or did you guys have lunch plans as well?”

Sebastien, Carlos and David shook their heads.

“No, you go Urs.” Saskia said, smiling at Urs. “We can have lunch anytime.”

“Let’s go then.” Simon said, as he continued down the hall.

They followed Simon towards the small staff cafeteria. Kristina hung back, not wanting to be so close to Urs but he slowed his pace and dropped back until he was in line with Kristina.

“What the hell are you doing here?” Urs asked, glaring at Kristina.

“Weren’t you listening to Simon?” Kristina replied, calmly. “I’m the new publicist.”

“You know what I mean.” Urs snapped.

David looked round and saw Urs and Kristina talking. He thought maybe they were finally sorting things out but then he noticed the looks on their faces. Things didn’t seem to be going well. David stepped to one side and let the others pass by until Kristina and Urs caught up with him.

“Everything alright?” David asked, glancing at Urs and then Kristina.

“Fine.” they both said in unison, and then glared at each other.

“Do you mind if I just have a word with Krissy for a moment?” David asked, as he took Kristina’s hand and pulled her to one side.

Urs shrugged. “Sure go ahead.” Urs replied, as he carried on walking ahead.

“Are you sure everything is alright, Krissy?” David asked. “Things looked a little… strained between you two.”

“Everything is fine.” Kristina replied, giving a weak smile. “I’m just trying to figure out what I ever saw in him. The guy is a complete as…”

“Ah ah ah!” David said, waving his finger at Kristina. “Language, remember you’re a lady.”

Kristina laughed and slapped David on the shoulder.

“You don’t know even know what I was going to say.”

“I think I have a pretty good idea.” David replied, grinning at her.

“You know I never swear, David.” Kristina said, innocently.

“There’s always a first time for everything.” David said, as he led Kristina to the cafeteria.

“Well just keep me away from that jerk and you won’t hear a bad word escape my mouth.” Kristina replied, as she sat down at the table opposite Urs.

“I’ll do my best.” David replied. “What did you want to eat? I think I saw Spaghetti Bolognese up there, do you still love that? I could go and get you some.”

“Yes that would be great.” Kristina replied, looking at David. “Thank you.”

Kristina picked up a clean glass and poured herself some water, ignoring the looks she was getting from Urs.

“So who did you sleep with to get this job then?” Urs asked said in a low voice so the others wouldn‘t hear. “Is this another way of getting back at me? You’re going to follow me around like some lost puppy.”

“You’ve got a bloody cheek.” Kristina spat. “I can get a job without sleeping around you know. And I can think of better things to do with my time than having to stay here and look at you for the rest of the day.”

“So why stay?” Urs asked, glaring at her. “Why don’t you just quit now?”

“I wouldn’t give you the satisfaction.” Kristina said, glaring back at Urs. “If you’ve got a problem with me then maybe you should tell Simon. Let him sack me because there’s no way I’m leaving here. And as you so kindly pointed out to me the other day, we‘re both adults. Although I‘m seriously having my doubts about your mental age.”

“And I am having serious doubts about your honesty and sincerity.” Urs replied.

“What the heck is that supposed to mean?” Kristina snapped, as she took out a small bottle from her bag.

“I don’t work with liars and cheaters.” Urs replied. “I don’t have any respect for people who can’t be honest with their feelings and who can’t be honest with other people. Why don’t you leave David alone, the poor man. He was better off without you, you’ve probably cheated on him before. It’s obvious he still loves you and here you are sleeping your way to the top of the career ladder. He deserves better.”

“Who the hell do you think you are? Calling me a liar and a cheater.” Kristina hissed. “You don’t know anything about me and you don‘t know anything about mine and David‘s relationship. You don’t know what I’ve been through these last four years.”

“No I don’t.” Urs snapped back. “And why is that? Oh I remember. Because you told me to get lost, that you didn’t love me and you didn’t want to see me again.”

“Well just be glad you had a lucky escape from me then.” Kristina replied, as she emptied two tablets in to the palm of her hand and put them in to her mouth before taking a mouthful of water.

“What’s wrong?” Urs said sarcastically as he watched Kristina . “You’ve only been here a few hours, is the stress getting to you already?”

“I can handle the stress.” Kristina said calmly, as she placed the bottle back in her bag. “In my line of work I get to deal with a lot of jerks and you’re no exception.”

“Why exactly did you take this job?” Urs asked. “It can‘t just be to annoy me. Did you want to be closer to David? Is that why?”

“I don‘t see that it‘s any of your business.” Kristina replied. “Why are you taking such a sudden interest in my life?”

“I’m not.” Urs replied, defensively. “I just want to know why you’re here. You could have any job you wanted.”

“Yes but according to you, I have to sleep with the boss first.” Kristina replied. “And like I said, I can get a job without having to do that.”

“How’s your sister these days?” Urs said casually. “I guess she seriously regrets giving you one of her kidneys considering she nearly died because of you.”

“Why you…” Before Kristina even realised what she had done, she had stood up and slapped Urs hard across the cheek. Everyone at the table fell silent.

“You are one spiteful man, Urs Buhler.” Kristina said, trying to fight back the tears. “If that’s how you treat someone you once loved then I dread to think how you treat your enemies.”

“There you go, Krissy.” David said warily, as he placed her meal in front of her and sat down beside her.

“Thanks David.” Kristina replied. “Perfect timing as usual.” she added, as she picked up the plate, tipping it’s contents over Urs‘ head.

Urs tried to say something but he was speechless. He looked up and glared at Kristina as she gave him one of her biggest smiles.

“Bon appetit!”

Kristina picked up her bag and left the cafeteria while the others sat there, trying to not to laugh at Urs, as pieces of spaghetti slid down the side of his face and dropped in to his lap.

“Eat up, Urs.” David said, as he started on his meal. “It’s getting cold.”

***** CHAPTER 50 *****

Kristina didn’t know where she was going, she just knew she had to get away from Urs before she did something stupid again and lost her job; that’s if she still had a job. Simon had seen the whole incident but Kristina couldn’t stop herself from doing what she did. Urs deserved it and there was no way she was going to let him get away with that kind of behaviour towards her.

Kristina stepped out of the elevator and looked around. She saw two big glass doors to her right which overlooked a small patio garden. Kristina walked down the hallway and opened the doors leading outside. There were tables and chairs in the middle of the patio and several benches around the outside of the garden. Kristina decided to go and sit down on one of the benches.

It was obviously a place where the staff could come and sit when the weather was nice but it was cold outside today and Kristina was the only person there. So far she had managed to hold back the tears but now she was all alone. That’s when she began to cry, although she didn‘t really care who saw her crying, her tears began to flow freely as she thought about what Urs had said to her.

She was stunned at how cruel and bitter Urs had been to her. Didn’t he know that every morning she woke up her head was filled with images of her sister laying in the hospital bed, not knowing if she would live or die and that she was the cause. Kristina knew what Abigail had gone through and what she had risked for her. Everyday Kristina relived the moment David told her that Abigail was in intensive care and that she was seriously ill. She didn’t need Urs to remind her that it was her fault Abigail nearly died.

David had been looking for Kristina when he bumped in to Lilly and she suggested trying the gardens; and that’s where he found her.

“Krissy?” David said softly, as he sat down beside her. “Are you okay?”

Kristina looked up at David and tried to smile through her tears but started to cry again.

“Of course you’re not,” David said, putting his arms around her. “I’m sorry, that was a stupid question.”

“It’s okay David.” Kristina replied, trying to wipe away her tears. “I know you mean well.”

David shook his head in disbelief.

“I don’t know what he was thinking when he said those things to you. That guy has a sick mind.”

“It’s my fault.” she cried, as she buried her head against his chest. “I was stupid coming here today. I told Angie I didn’t want the job but she wouldn’t listen. I knew it would cause trouble.”

“It’s not your fault, Krissy.” David said, lightly resting his chin on her head. “You’re here to do a job and no-one deserves to be spoken to like that. Maybe I should go and have a word with him. Teach him some manners.”

“I’d rather you didn’t.” Kristina said quietly. “It will only makes things bad between you two and I don’t want to ruin anything with the group. I’ll go and see Angie and ask her to send someone else to run the campaign. If she refuses then I guess I‘ll just have to quit.”

“But you shouldn’t have to do that, Krissy.” David said, sounding surprised. “You can’t let Urs start running your life. You should stay here, be brave, show him that he’s not going to walk all over you, that you’re strong.”

“But I’m not strong, David.” Kristina said, starting to cry again. “Or brave, not anymore. I’m sorry but I don’t think I can carry on working for Simon if I have to put up with these sort of comments from him all the time.”

David put a single finger under Kristina’s chin and tilted her head up towards him.

“There is something you must always remember.” he said softly. “You are an amazing woman, Krissy. Someone once said ‘You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think‘. But do you know what else?”

Kristina shook her head.

“We’re not all like Urs.” David said, as he winked at her. “You’ve got me as a friend and I don‘t want you to leave.”

Kristina looked at David and smiled, a single tear running down her face.

“Why did I ever leave you?” Kristina thought to herself. Maybe in time her feelings for Urs would have disappeared and she and David would still be together. He always knew exactly the right thing to say to make her feel better. But she knew she did the right thing for both of them at the time, she couldn’t base her life on a lot of what ifs and maybes.

“Does that mean you will stay?” David asked, when he saw the smile on her face.

“Yes, I’ll stay.” Kristina replied.

David leant forward and gently kissed Kristina on the forehead.

“That’s my girl.” he whispered. “Now, let‘s go and get you something to eat, seeing as Urs is wearing your lunch.”

Urs had just finished cleaning himself up when he came out of the toilets and looked out the window. He looked down below and saw Kristina sitting on her own; she was crying. Urs could feel his chest tighten when he saw her tears. It had been bad enough hearing Kristina crying on the phone all those years ago when she had phoned him from the hospital. He had been desperate to see her and comfort her. But this time Urs was the reason she was crying and he hated himself for it. He felt awful for saying those things to her and he wasn’t quite sure why he had said it. He was angry with her though, for showing up like that. He knew she was only doing her job but couldn‘t help wondering if she had an ulterior motive for being there. But right now that didn’t matter, he was way out of line and he needed to apologise to her.

Urs was about to go downstairs to the gardens but he saw David appear and sit down beside Kristina. Urs had a strong feeling building up inside of him. He couldn’t be sure what it was but he refused to believe it was jealousy. Urs didn’t love Kristina anymore so why did he get all these intense feelings when ever he saw David and Kristina together? Perhaps it just brought back bad memories. Urs watched as David put his arms around Kristina and they talked for several minutes. Kristina was still crying and Urs wanted so much to be the one to comfort her. But then David tilted Kristina’s head up towards him. Urs had no idea what David said to Kristina but whatever it was, it made Kristina smile. Urs could feel his emotions building up again. He then continued to watch as David took Kristina’s hand and led her back inside the building. Urs should’ve been the one to make her feel better, not David. Urs cursed under his breath and kicked the wall before turning around and coming face to face with Saskia.

“Are you alright, Urs?”

“Of course I am.” Urs replied, smiling. “It’s just been a bad morning. Simon wants us to sing for him this afternoon and I don’t think we’re ready.”

“I saw what happened in the cafeteria.” Saskia said, walking towards Urs.

Urs didn’t reply.

“What did you say to her?” she asked.

“Nothing, it doesn’t matter.” Urs replied, lowering his eyes to the floor. “I’d rather forget about it, if you don’t mind.”

“Actually I do mind.” Saskia said, folding her arms across her chest. “You’ve been acting differently ever since that day you came here to meet Simon. It’s her isn’t it?”

“Who are you talking about?” Urs asked.

“Who know who I mean, Kristina.” Saskia replied. “What’s going on with you two?”

Urs turned away and looked out the window.

“Nothing’s going on with us.” he replied.

Saskia stood in front of Urs, blocking his view.

“What did she mean when she… when she said ‘someone you once loved’?

Urs turned to look t Saskia. He didn’t want to upset Saskia and he certainly didn’t want Kristina to be the cause of any problem in his relationship with her. But she didn’t deserve to be lied to either.

“I don’t think this is the right place for me to tell you, Saskia.” Urs said, gently rubbing his hands up and down her arms. “We’ll talk about this when we get home okay?”

“You’re not avoiding it are you?” Saskia asked. “I want to know what she meant.”

“I’ll explain everything later, I promise.” Urs replied. “But right now, I need to go and change my shirt. Sebastien said he has a spare one I can borrow.”

Urs kissed Saskia on the cheek and walked back to the cafeteria to find Sebastien.

Saskia watched Urs as he left. She wanted to know what Kristina meant, and if Urs wasn’t going to tell her then maybe she should ask Kristina.

***** CHAPTER 51 *****

David and Kristina had gone back to the cafeteria to get something for her to eat. Luckily Urs wasn’t there so Kristina had managed to eat her meal in peace but she was worrying about what would happen next. Simon has asked her to stay and listen to the guys sing later that afternoon. Kristina didn’t know if that was still going ahead, seeing as she had just covered one of his new protégés with the ‘Dish of the Day’.

Kristina decided that she had better phone Angie and warn her that Simon might call her. She knew Angie wouldn’t be pleased but it seemed only fair to tell her just in case. After finishing her lunch, Kristina thanked David, said goodbye and went back outside to the small gardens to call Angie in private.

“You did what?” Angie screamed down the phone.

“I’m sorry, Angie.” Kristina said, apologetically. “Truly I am. I don’t know what got in to me. I told you we didn’t get on.”

“You don’t get on?” Angie said, still screaming. “Are you mad? There’s not getting on and there’s not getting on. And then there’s chucking food at a Divo. These guys are supposed to be the next big thing in the music industry. Are you trying to ruin me?”

“I’m really sorry, Angie.” Kristina said, feeling awful about what the consequences might mean for Angie. “But he made some personal comments and I just flipped. I’ll go and see Simon as soon as I’ve finished this call. I’ll apologise for what I did and get down on bended knees to keep this campaign if that’s what it takes.”

“Oh I know you didn’t mean it.” Angie said, sighing. “I know it’s totally out of character for you. But come on, how did it feel?” Angie asked, a smile evident in her voice.

“Absolutely brilliant.” Kristina replied, chuckling as the image of Urs covered in spaghetti and Bolognese sauce entered her head once again. “I just wish I had my camera with me.”

“No!” Angie said, giggling. “That’s not the sort of publicity we’re going for.”

“I know, I know.” Kristina said, rolling her eyes. “But I was wondering… seeing as me and Urs don’t get on… and this morning proved it, do you think you could find someone to replace me?”

“Uh uh.” Angie replied. “I told you, there’s no one else that can do it. I moved everyone around just so you could have this campaign.”

“Angie, I don’t want to sound ungrateful but I don‘t think I‘m the best person for this job.” Kristina said, quietly.

“Listen, you’re perfect for the job.” Angie replied. “Just because you had one minor… incident, doesn’t mean you’re not capable of running this campaign. Go and see Simon, give him one of your sweetest smiles and hopefully we all still have a job.”

“Angie, I really am sorry.” Kristina said, feeling very guilty. “I’ll make it up to you.”

“I know you will.” Angie said, laughing. “You owe me big time and don’t forget it.”

“Angie please, can you find someone to replace me, I don’t feel…” Kristina started to say.

“Sorry Kristina, got to go, got a call waiting on the other line.” Angie interrupted.

“But Angie…”

“Sorry, duty calls.” Angie said, interrupting her again. “Call me and let me know what happens with you and Simon. Speak to you later.”

Kristina heard the phone click as Angie hung up.

“Great.” Kristina thought to herself, she was stuck here, with Urs, for God knows how long. She hoped for Angie’s sake that Simon was a forgiving man with a sense of humour but for her own sake, she hoped that Simon would agree with Kristina; that perhaps she wasn’t the person best suited for this job.

Kristina put her phone in her bag and looked up to see Saskia walking towards her.

“Can we talk?” Saskia asked, as she sat down next to Kristina.

“Well, actually I need to go and see Simon.” Kristina replied, getting up from her seat.

“It will only take a couple of minutes.” Saskia said, taking a firm hold of Kristina’s arm so that she had no other choice than to sit down again.

Kristina looked at Saskia, a little confused as to why she was acting this way. Had Urs said something to her about their past?

“What did you want to talk about?” Kristina asked, rubbing her arm after Saskia released it from her grip.

“You.” came the short reply from Saskia. “And Urs.”

“I don’t understand.” Kristina replied. “What about me and Urs?”

“I saw what happened in the cafeteria earlier on.” Saskia replied. “I want to know what was said and why it happened?”

This day is going from bad to worse, Kristina thought to herself. She now had to sit here and listen to Urs’ girlfriend giving her grief and she wanted details.

“I think you should ask Urs.” Kristina replied. “It’s really not my place to tell you.”

“Of course it is.” Saskia snapped. “You were there, it involved you. You were the one that threw food all over my boyfriend. I want to know what happened.”

Kristina didn’t want to have to explain herself to Saskia. This should be up to Urs. He was the one that had caused all this by making hurtful comments to her.

“I’m sorry, but you really need to ask Urs.” Kristina said, getting up from her seat again. “I don’t want to talk about it, he said some pretty hurtful things.”

“Such as?” Saskia asked, getting up from her seat.

“It’s personal.” Kristina said, starting to walk away from Saskia. “Like I said, I don’t want to talk about it.”

“Well I do.” Saskia replied, blocking Kristina’s way. “I can ask Urs what happened but I want to hear what you have to say for yourself. I want to know why you did what you did.”

“Ask Urs.” Kristina said, stepping to the side to get past Saskia. “That’s if he’s got the guts to admit what he did.”

“I will ask Urs.” Saskia replied, following Kristina to the door. “But right now I’m asking you. I want to know what was so bad that caused you to tip food over the poor guy.”

“The poor guy?” Kristina said, shocked but trying not to laugh. “If only you knew. He might make out he’s all sweet and loving and wouldn’t put a foot wrong. But I would be careful if I were you. He’s not always like that.”

“So tell me what he’s really like, seeing as you two know each other so well.” Saskia said, now blocking the door completely so that Kristina couldn’t get back inside the building.

“Oh no, I’m not going to start dishing the dirt.” Kristina said, shaking her head. “You want to know what he’s been up to then let him tell you himself. I‘m not getting involved.”

“You don‘t get it do you?” Saskia snapped. “You‘re already involved. All of this is about you and Urs. What did you mean when you said ’someone you once loved’?”

Kristina looked at Saskia; she seemed like a nice enough person. No matter how much Urs had hurt her, Saskia didn’t deserve to be hurt. Kristina wasn’t going to tell her everything that had happened, she still believed it was up to Urs to explain it to her. Kristina didn’t want to be blamed for causing trouble in their relationship.

“Let’s just say I hope he doesn’t end up treating you the same way he’s treating me now.” Kristina replied. “People change and Urs is not the man I used to know.”

“Were you and Urs involved with one another?” Saskia asked, faintly.

“I’m sorry but I need to go.” Kristina said, pushing Saskia to the side. “I need to see Simon and I don‘t want to be late and then have to explain how you were giving me twenty questions about Urs‘ love life.”

Saskia stood aside and let Kristina pass, stunned at her response. Urs and Kristina had been a couple? Did Urs once love her? Did he still love her? Saskia thought about the last few days and how Urs had been acting differently. He certainly hadn’t been acting like a man who was still in love with another woman and that suspicion was only confirmed earlier. By Kristina throwing her lunch over Urs, he had obviously said something to upset her. Or was it all an act? Were they seeing each other in secret and trying to put her off the scent? Saskia was left with no answers and only more questions.

***** CHAPTER 52 *****

Kristina made her way towards the ominous black doors at the end of the corridor that led to Simon Cowells office and once again, that sick feeling in her stomach returned. This was starting to become a habit and she wondered how much more of this she could take.

Kristina lightly tapped on the door and opened it cautiously, not knowing what kind of response she could expect the other side. She poked her round the door and saw Lilly sitting at her desk. Lilly turned and saw Kristina and quickly put a finger up to her mouth.

“Shhhh.” she said in a whisper, as she gestured for Kristina to come in.

Kristina entered the room and made her way over to Lilly‘s desk. As she got closer she could hear shouting coming from Simon’s office. Someone’s in trouble, she thought. Things don’t look good for me if Simon’s in a bad mood.

“URS! I’m not going to argue with you. Now just SHUT UP and listen. ”

Kristina’s face turned pale as she looked at Lilly.

“Still think his bark is worse than his bite?” Lilly whispered.

Kristina looked back at the door from where all the noise was coming from. What was she saying earlier, her day going from bad to worse? It had now gone from worse to catastrophic! Urs was getting his ear chewed off by Simon and it was all her fault. Urs would never forgive her for this.

Kristina then heard what she could only assume was Urs shouting at Simon but couldn’t quite make out what he was saying.

“URS! SHUT UP. I DON’T WANT TO HEAR IT!”

Kristina was considering making a run for it yet her feet seemed to be glued to the spot. Simon’s door then flew open and Urs came striding out. He stopped when he saw Kristina and glared at her.

“Now’s your chance.” Simon said, as he followed Urs out of his office. Urs turned and looked back at Simon.

“Well, don’t keep us here all day.” Simon said, folding his arms.

Kristina stood to one side to let Urs pass but he didn’t move. He turned round and looked back towards Kristina with an angry glare. He moved two steps towards her making her jump as she took two steps back from him. Urs frowned for a second when he saw Kristina flinch and step back, surprised at her reaction to him.

“I would like to apologise for my behaviour earlier on.” Urs said, in a calm and deliberate tone. “There was no excuse for the way I acted or for the things I said.”

Kristina stood looking at Urs with a look of total shock on her face. She didn’t know what to say. Was Urs’ apology genuine and from the heart or was he only doing it because Simon had made him do it? At this moment in time Kristina believed it was because Simon had told him to do it and she felt somewhat disappointed that Urs couldn’t have apologised on his own rather than being forced too.

“Will you accept my apology?” Urs asked, his eyes still fixed on Kristina.

“Yes.” came the faint reply from Kristina, as she slowly nodded.

Urs then stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind him.

“Kristina, can I see you for a moment please?” Simon said, as he turned his back on her and walked in to his office.

“Not again.” she thought to herself. She wasn’t exactly creating a good impression on her first day working for Simon Cowell.

Kristina closed the door and stood in front of Simon’s desk.

“Come on, sit down.” Simon said as he sat down and pointed to a chair.

Kristina nervously sat down, wondering if she was in for the same treatment Urs had just got.

“I guess you know why I want to see you.” Simon said, as he shuffled some papers about on his desk.

“Yes.” Kristina replied, weakly. “But I was on my way to explain and apol…”

“Uh uh.” Simon said, waving his finger at her. “I saw what happened earlier on and Urs has already admitted it was all his fault. But I think it’s best if you don’t tell me what it’s about. That way no one can accuse me of taking sides. I’ve told Urs the same thing. If you two have differences with each other then I would prefer you sort it out in your own time and not during work hours.”

“Does that mean I still have a job?” Kristina asked, unable to hide the look of shock on her face.

“Of course.” Simon replied. “You come highly recommended where publicists are concerned. I’m not going to let this interfere with what ever is going on with you and Urs.”

Kristina couldn’t believe her ears. Simon wasn’t going to fire her; much to her disappointment.

“There’s something I want to show you.” Simon said, getting up from his chair. “Follow me.”

Kristina stood up and waited for Simon to pass her before following him out of the office.

“Lilly, can you hold all my calls for now.” Simon said, as he walked past Lilly. “I’m sure if there’s anything important it can wait or you can deal with it.”

“Of course, Simon.” Lilly replied.

Lilly looked at Kristina, and nodded in Simon‘s direction. Kristina shrugged her shoulders at Lilly and continued to follow Simon. He led her down the corridor and to the elevator. Several minutes later, Kristina was following Simon down yet another corridor.

“This is where the guys are at the moment.” he said, pointing in the direction of two big black double doors. “Through there is the recording studio, a piano, whatever they need, all the home comforts as they’ll be spending a lot of time here. And this is where you will be spending a lot of your time.” Simon said, gently taking Kristina’s arm and leading her towards another door.

“What do you mean?” Kristina asked, as Simon pushed open an identical set of big black doubled doors and led her in to the room.

“This is your office.” Simon replied. “Do you like it?”

“But I have an office.” Kristina said, somewhat shocked. “I have my own office back at Cavendish. I don’t need this.”

“I hope you’re not refusing it.” Simon said, turning to face her. “I arranged to have this office redecorated especially for you. Angie said it would be exactly to your taste.”

Kristina had to admit, the office did look stunning.

“Angie knew about this?” Kristina asked, when it suddenly hit her what Simon had said.

He nodded.

“I phoned her several weeks ago. Angie very kindly sent me a few pictures of your office at Cavendish and I left the rest of it to the designers.”

“It’s gorgeous, Simon.” Kristina replied, as she ran her fingers lightly across the desk. “But you didn’t have to do all this. It must’ve have cost a fortune.”

“It did.” Simon said, modestly. “But I like my employees to work in comfortable surroundings. If this is what makes you happy then so be it.” he added, with a small shrug of his shoulders.

“I don’t know what to say.” Kristina replied, as she sat down in the large leather seat.

“Just say thank you.” Simon said, folding his arms across his chest.

“Oh God, I’m sorry.” Kristina said, suddenly getting up from her seat. “Thank you and I really mean that. No one has ever gone to this much trouble to make me feel welcome.”

“Think nothing of it.” Simon said, as he turned towards the door. “Now come with me. You can be among the first to hear Il Divo.”

Kristina followed Simon out of her new office and warily approached the big black doors.

“Are you ready?” Simon asked, his hand hovering over the door handle.

Kristina nodded.

“And you’re not going to start any food fights?” Simon said, winking at her.

“No sir.” Kristina replied, nervously smiling.

“Okay, let’s go.”

Simon opened the door and gestured for Kristina to go in.

“Ladies first.”

***** CHAPTER 53 *****

Kristina tried to relax as she walked in to the room and felt all eyes focus on her.

“Krissy!” David said, smiling as he walked over to her. “What are you doing back here?”

“Simon very kindly invited me to stay, so here I am.” Kristina replied, taking David’ s hand as he led her in to the room.

“You mean you’re going to hear us sing?” Sebastien asked, looking a little nervous.

“That’s okay, isn’t it?” Kristina asked, looking at Simon.

“What’s wrong Sebastien?” Carlos asked. “You’ve done this all before. You’re not getting nervous about performing in front of an audience are you?”

“No… not really.” Sebastien replied. “But this is completely different to anything I’ve done before. Okay, yes I am a little nervous.” he said quietly.

Then came a knock at the door.

“I hope you don’t mind Simon but I invited Abby here to listen to us.” Carlos said, as he made his way over to the door.

“I don’t mind.” Simon replied, putting his hands in his pockets. “It might be a good idea to get another woman’s opinion, no offence Kristina.”

“None taken.” Kristina said, looking at Simon.

“Abby.” Carlos said, smiling as he took her in his arms and kissed her. “I’m glad you came, I want you to be one of the first to hear us sing as Il Divo.”

“I wouldn’t miss this for the world.” Abigail replied, as she kissed him back.

As Kristina went to greet her sister she stopped by Sebastien.

“I’m sure you’ll be great.” Kristina said, giving him a reassuring smile. “All of you.” she added as she looked at Sebastien, David and then Carlos.

Urs noticed that Kristina hadn’t looked at him since entering the room. Every time she looked in his direction, her eyes seemed to pass over him and he couldn’t help feeling somewhat neglected. Urs understood that she might still be angry with him after what he said to her earlier but he had apologised and hoped that maybe she would forgive and forget. It was obvious that wasn’t going to happen, at least not right away but he did want to make it up to her. He just wasn’t sure how.

“Kristina!” Abby exclaimed when she saw her sister. “What are you doing here?”

“I’m the new publicist for these guys.” Kristina replied, hugging her sister. “I only found out last night.”

“Are you okay with that?” Abigail said quietly, so only Kristina could hear.

“We had a few problems this morning but I think he learnt his lesson.” Kristina said grinning.

Abby looked at Kristina, obviously curious.

“Don’t worry, I’ll explain later.” she said.

Abigail left and went back to Carlos.

“So how are you feeling?” David asked as he approached Kristina. “Has he given you any more trouble?”

Kristina shook her head.

“In fact he apologised to me but I think that’s only because Simon made him do it.” Kristina replied. “I went to see Simon to apologise about what happened but Urs was already in there getting a grilling from Simon.”

David quietly laughed but then his expression changed.

“He wasn’t rude to you was he?” David asked. “I mean Simon, not Urs. Did Simon have a go at you as well?”

“No, he was fine about it.” Kristina replied. “He wouldn’t let me apologise. He didn’t even want to know what it was about, he said if we had differences then we were to deal with them outside of working hours. And then he showed me to my new office, newly decorated just for me.” she added.

“Your new office?” David said, looking slightly puzzled. “What happened at Cavendish? You still work for Angie don‘t you?”

“Nothing‘s happened. As far as I know I still have a job there.” Kristina said, smiling. “I think Simon wants me to spend more time here and less time travelling backwards and forwards between here and Cavendish.”

“Well it does make sense.” David replied. “But congratulations once again. A new office, courtesy of Mr Cowell. I guess that means we‘ll be seeing a lot more of each other.”

Kristina frowned.

“You don’t want to see me?” David asked, looking a little saddened.

“It’s not that.” Kristina replied, giving a small sigh. “It just means that I also have to see him as well.”

“You mean Urs?” David asked, quietly.

“If I have another day like today I think I might do more than throw my dinner over him.” Kristina said, slowly shaking her head as she tried to forget the things Urs said to her.

“If he gives you any more trouble just let me know okay?” David said, as he put a hand up to her face and lightly ran his thumb across her cheek. “I mean it. If he so much as looks at you the wrong way…”

“David!” Kristina said firmly. “I don’t want you to do anything stupid.”

“Hey would I?” he said, holding his hands up innocently. “But by the looks of it I don’t think I’ll be the one starting the fight.”

“What on earth are you talking about?” she asked.

“I think someone is a little jealous.” David replied.

“Who?” Kristina said, looking around. “Where?”

“Urs.” David replied. “You should have seen the look on his face when I touched your cheek just then.”

“That’s not funny.” Kristina said, lowering her head.

“It wasn’t meant to be funny.” David said, seriously. “If looks could kill they would be putting me in my coffin about now.”

“I think you’re mistaken.” Kristina replied, sadly. “He’s not jealous. He’s probably just angry that he got in to trouble with Simon and it was because of me.”

“I know a jealous man when I see one.” David said, sighing. “And as much as I hate to admit it, I think he still has feelings for you.”

“Yes, feelings of hate and contempt.” Kristina said, faintly. “Not love.”

“I disagree.” David replied, glancing at Urs. “He definitely doesn’t like me being here with you.”

“If he still has feelings for me then why is he acting like this?” Kristina said, weakly. “Why is he treating me like dirt? Why is he being so cruel and bringing me to tears?”

“Has it ever crossed your mind that he might still care for you but he’s too scared to admit it?” David said softly. “You told him you didn‘t love him, right?”

Kristina nodded.

“Maybe he doesn‘t want to let himself get close to you for fear of being hurt again. The only thing he can do is act like he doesn’t care, even if that means making you hate him.”

“I could never hate him.” Kristina said in a whisper.

While the sound technicians checked the equipment was in working order, Urs stood and watched David and Kristina talking. Urs felt that same familiar feeling come flooding back to him as David caressed Kristina‘s cheek. It wasn’t jealousy he told himself. It was bad memories, bad feelings and emotions from when Kristina had rejected him years ago. He had to put those thoughts out of his head if he was going to have to work along side her. He couldn’t risk having another outburst and risk his future with Il Divo, not after he had given up his previous job to join the group.

Urs was lost in his thoughts when Simon ushered him and the other guys towards the sound booth. Along the way, Simon directed Kristina and Abigail to a small room off to the side of the booth where they found three large couches. Kristina and Abigail sat down and watched as the four men took their place in the sound booth. Kristina had been trying to avoid looking at Urs but found herself occasionally glancing at him when he wasn‘t looking.

Kristina started to think about what David had said to her. Was David right, could Urs still have feelings for her? No, it wasn’t possible, not after the way he had spoken to her and she wasn’t just thinking about today’s argument. Since they had met up again, over the last two weeks Urs hadn’t said a kind word to her and if Urs still felt anything for her, he couldn’t be that spiteful towards her. David was mistaken, as much as she wanted him to be right, Urs didn’t care for her anymore. But then Kristina remembered what else David had said; that Urs might be afraid to admit how he felt, not just to her but to himself. She hadn‘t even thought that he might be scared of how he felt for her, that her showing up now might bring back bad memories for him. Or maybe he just resented her coming back in to his life now that he was with Saskia.

“I’m looking forward to this.” Abigail said.

“Huh? Sorry what did you say?” Kristina asked.

“I said I’m looking forward to this.” Abigail said again. “The guys singing.”

“Me too.” Simon said, as he sat down next to Kristina. “You okay? You look troubled. It’s not Urs again is it?”

“No!” Kristina said quickly. “I’m fine, I was just thinking that’s all, about the campaign, not Urs, I mean I was because he’s part of Il Divo but not… in that way… you know….”

Kristina stopped talking and blushed when she realised she was talking nonsense. Abigail quietly laughed at Kristina.

“You don’t have to explain it to me.” Simon said, giving her a knowing smile.

He then turned and nodded at the men in the booth.

Kristina leant back in her seat feeling a little embarrassed at her ramblings to Simon.

“I believe this one is called Mama.” Simon said, as the music started up.

Kristina kept her eyes focused on David as he started to sing the opening verse. She had always loved David’s voice, it was strong and powerful but when he sang those high notes it was almost angelic.

She moved her eyes to Sebastien as he started to sing and noticed Urs. She could hear him singing with Sebastien but she wanted to hear him sing alone. She waited and waited but he only ever sang in the background.

“Fantastic!” Simon said, getting up from his seat. “So what song next? I need to hear more.”

“What about Regresa A Mi?” Sebastien replied. “That was one of the first songs we completed.”

“Okay let‘s hear it!” Simon said, sitting back down in his seat. “You might know this one ladies. It was originally sung by Toni Braxton.”

Once again, Kristina leant back in her chair as the music started. Kristina had only heard the first couple of bars when she recognised the song; Unbreak My Heart. Her eyes focused on Sebastien, Carlos and then David, deliberately avoiding eye contact with Urs. She was still upset about earlier and wasn’t sure how she would react if she looked directly in to his eyes. She didn’t want to start crying again and make a fool of herself.

Urs started to sing the second verse and he looked across at Kristina.

Kristina heard Urs start to sing and her eyes were instantly drawn to him. All the other voices seemed to fade away and soon the only voice Kristina heard was Urs’. She tried to look away but she couldn’t, he was looking straight at her and she was hypnotised by both his eyes and his voice. She listened intently to every word he sang, watching every movement of his mouth, the seductive way he licked his lips, absorbed in the sound of his voice, the mellow tones, the way his nostrils flared, the way he moved his hands when he sang, almost if he were running them gently over the curves of a woman’s body. Kristina was completely enthralled by him.

Urs felt the need to impress Kristina and sang with all the emotion he could find. He always put energy and feeling into his singing but somehow this was different. He wasn’t singing to an audience, he was singing for one woman. He wanted her to notice him, he wanted her to look at him; she did notice him and she was looking at him. Urs continued to look at Kristina as he sang every note, directing each and every word at her. He had never felt such passion when singing before, Kristina had inspired something in him, something new. He daren’t look away from her, he didn’t want to take his eyes off her in case she didn’t look at him that same way again. He loved the way she looked at him, as if he were the only man in the room. She was the only woman that had ever made him feel this way.

The song ended and it was almost as if a switch was flicked, Kristina and Urs instantly looking away from each other.

“So what’s going on with you two?”

Kristina turned to see Simon looking at her.

“Sorry, who do you mean?” she asked.

“You and Urs.” Simon replied. “The way you two were looking at each other then, it’s hard to believe that only a few hours ago you were at each others throats!”

“What?” Kristina said, shocked. “I told you, nothing is going on.”

“Just friends hey?” Simon said, winking at her as he got up from his seat and left the room.

“We’re not even friends.” she thought to herself.

“Do you mind if I go and see Carlos?” Abigail asked, getting up from her seat.

“Of course I don‘t mind.” Kristina replied. “I‘m going outside for a moment, it‘s a bit hot in here, could you let Simon know if he asks where I am?”

Abigail agreed and Kristina stood up, quickly heading for the door. She wanted to get out of here, she couldn’t stand being so close to Urs. She didn’t realise how much his singing had affected her. Her love for him had grown even stronger since hearing him sing. She longed to be close to him, touch him, to show him how much she loved him, to tell him she loved him. But that would never happen now.

Urs watched as Kristina left the room. He was hoping to apologise to her properly as the one he made earlier wasn’t exactly the friendliest of apologies.

Abigail was about to walk past Urs when he stopped her.

“Excuse me but where did Kristina go?” he asked.

“She went outside for some fresh air.” Abigail replied. “I think it got a bit too hot in here for her.”

“Thanks.” Urs said, smiling politely at Abigail.

Urs wondered if he should follow her.

***** CHAPTER 54 *****

“I’ll be back in a minute.” Urs said to Sebastien as he turned away.

“Where are you going?” Sebastien asked. “Simon wants to talk to us.”

“I need to do something.” Urs replied. “It’s important, just cover for me will you?”

Urs headed for the door. He had to find Kristina and apologise to her. He was sure she didn’t believe him earlier and she had good reason not to. He was angry earlier on when he had apologised to her. But not with Kristina. He was angry with himself for saying such stupid and hurtful things to her.

Abigail noticed Urs leave and went to see Carlos.

“Do you know where Urs has gone?” she asked.

Carlos shook his head.

“I’ve no idea.” he replied. “Why? Is something wrong, Abby?”

“Urs wanted to know where Kristina was.” she replied. “I told him she went outside and now he’s left.”

“Sebastien. David.”

Sebastien and David were in the middle of a conversation and both turned around.

“Do either of you know where Urs went?” Carlos asked.

“He said he had to do something and that he would be back in a few minutes” Sebastien replied.

“Did he say exactly what it was it he had to do?” Abigail asked.

“Sorry, he just said it was important.” Sebastien said, before turning back to David.

“Should I go and find Kristina?” Abigail said, looking at Carlos.

“You think Urs might be looking for her?” Carlos asked.

Abigail nodded.

“I would leave it.” Carlos said, wrapping his arm around Abigail’s waist. “Those two need to talk and the sooner the better. Maybe they will finally kiss and make up.”

“Kristina mentioned that something happened earlier on.” Abigail said, moving closer to Carlos. “What happened this morning, did they argue? You don‘t think they will argue now do you?”

“I’m sure things will be fine.” Carlos said, as he took Abigail’s hand and led her to a couch. “Come over here and I’ll tell you about this morning.”

Urs walked down the corridor trying to think where Kristina would have gone. He was going to try the gardens first, that was the most obvious place she would go. If she wasn’t there, then he would keep looking for her; she couldn’t have gone far. As Urs stepped out of the elevator he noticed her straight away, she was outside in the garden, sitting on the same bench as earlier. Urs hesitated for a moment, wondering if he was doing the right thing. He decided he was; he had to apologise.

Urs stepped outside and Kristina looked up as she heard the door open.

“Oh God, no, not again please.” Kristina thought to herself as she saw Urs walk towards her.

“Hello Kristina.”

Kristina tried to remain calm, as Urs approached her. She noticed he still called her Kristina. When he or David called her Krissy she thought of it as a sign of affection, a way of showing their closeness, an understanding. She missed hearing him call her Krissy.

“Hello Urs.”

“Do you mind if I sit down?” Urs asked, pointing to the empty space beside her.

“I can’t stop you.” Kristina replied, shrugging her shoulders. “It’s a public place.”

Urs knew this wasn’t going to be easy. Kristina was already on the defensive and who could blame her after the way he had treated her.

“I wanted to talk about what happened earlier on, in the cafeteria and in Simon’s office.”

“I’m sorry but I don’t.” Kristina said, getting up from her seat. “Today has been bad enough and I don’t need to be reminded about it, least of all by you.”

“Please Krissy.” Urs said, softly.

Kristina stopped and looked down at Urs. How did he do that? He always seemed to know what she was thinking, as if he could read her mind.

“What’s wrong?” Urs asked, noticing the look on her face.

“Nothing I… you called me Krissy.” she said in a faint whisper.

“I’m sorry.” Urs said quietly. “I... I didn’t mean to. I know David is the only one that calls you that.” Urs said, lowering his eyes to the floor. “I’ll call you Kristina from now on.”

“No, you don’t have to.” Kristina said, quickly. “I... I like it when you call me Krissy.”

“You do?” Urs asked, looking up at her.

Kristina was shocked at herself for saying it, she didn’t want to be nice to him or let down her defences but there was something different about him. He was acting as if he actually cared about her and Kristina felt herself start to relax again.

Kristina smiled at Urs.

“Yes I do.”

Urs gently took Kristina’s hand and felt an energy shoot through his body, causing all his nerve endings to tingle. Urs struggled to gain his composure as he realised how hard his heart was pounding. He hadn‘t felt this way in a long time, the only woman that made his heart beat this way was Kristina. He had touched her before but things had always seemed tense between them. Yet this time was different. As he took her hand she responded to him, and held his hand.

“Please, sit down with me and listen to what I have to say.” he said in a strained voice.

Kristina almost fell back down as she sat next to Urs. He touched her hand so gently, so softly that it made her whole body weak, to feel his touch again after so long. As Urs took her hand, Kristina‘s natural response had been to slip her hand in to his, it felt so right. It also unnerved her that one man, no matter how cruel he had been to her recently, could still bring out the strongest of emotions that she had for him; love.

“I’m listening.” she said, her voice trembling.

“I wanted to apologise about earlier.” Urs said, turning to face Kristina.

“But you’ve already apologised.” Kristina said, looking up at Urs. “You don’t have to apologise again, once is enough.”

“No you’re wrong.” Urs said, as he looked away feeling embarrassed at the way he had acted. “We both know that when I apologised earlier, it wasn’t from the heart. I was angry and I only said it to keep Simon happy.”

Kristina stayed silent. She knew Urs hadn’t mean it and who‘s to say he meant it now. Kristina looked down and noticed that her and Urs were still holding hands. She wanted to pull her hand away but she couldn’t do it, she liked the way her hand felt in his, like it belonged there.

“Krissy?“

Kristina looked up at Urs.

“I really am sorry.” Urs said softly. “You do believe me don‘t you?”

Kristina continued to look at Urs and stared straight in to his eyes.

“Yes I believe you.” Kristina replied. “I can tell by the look in your eyes that you mean it.”

Urs stared back at Kristina. There was something about the look in her eyes which made him feel different, almost special. He couldn’t explain exactly what it was but he liked how it made him feel and without realising it he gently squeezed Kristina‘s hand.

Kristina kept looking at Urs, looking in to his eyes for that look that he once had, the one he had for only her; she couldn’t see it. But she didn’t see the cold and emptiness that was there a few days ago either. It had been replaced by something else, yet Kristina wasn’t sure what. Kristina smiled at Urs as she felt him gently squeeze her hand. They sat there for what seemed like minutes, even hours but in fact it was only a few seconds.

Urs was the first to look away. He looked down and saw that he and Kristina were still holding hands.

“I’m sorry.” Urs said as he pulled his hand away, not noticing the saddened look on Kristina‘s face as he did so. “I didn’t realise I still had a hold of your hand.”

“That’s okay.” Kristina said, disappointedly as she looked down at her now empty hand. She was already missing the feel of his hand in hers. Kristina would have been quite content to sit there all day in silence, to just look at him and hold his hand. She just wanted to be with him. Kristina then remembered Saskia.

“Can I say something?” Kristina said, looking back at Urs.

Urs nodded.

“It might not be the right time to mention this.” Kristina said, hesitating. “But… I think you need to speak to Saskia.”

“What about?” Urs asked, looking slightly confused.

“You and me.” Kristina replied. “She came to see me earlier, she wants to know what this morning was all about.”

“What did you tell her?” Urs asked.

Kristina didn’t reply. She was thinking about what she had told her Saskia. She hadn’t really told her anything, just that Urs had changed, he wasn’t the same man.

“What did you tell her?” Urs said again, but louder this time, causing Kristina to jump and move away from him a little.

“I didn’t tell her anything.” Kristina replied, surprised at his change of tone with her. “I told her if she wanted to know what it was about, then you’re the one she should be asking, not me.”

“And what else did you say?” Urs asked. “You must have said something to her?”

“Nothing. I’m not going to start getting involved in something that’s a matter between you and Saskia. I‘m not going to tell her what happened.” Kristina replied. “But you should. I think you should be honest with her.”

“Honest?” Urs said, laughing as he stood up. “That’s great coming from you.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Kristina snapped, angered at the way Urs was now talking to her.

“You couldn’t be honest with me or yourself four years ago.” Urs said, sarcastically. “And here’s you telling me to be honest with Saskia.”

“I’m not telling you to do anything.” Kristina said, getting up from the bench. “I only said I think you should be honest with her. God forbid you should actually take notice of anything I say.”

Urs glared at Kristina.

“I take notice of what you say, or do you need me to remind you?”

Kristina looked back at Urs. She knew what he was going to say.

“I took notice of you when you said that we couldn’t see each other again, that you loved David, that you didn‘t love me. But now look, here you are, following me around. You and David split up and now you’ve fallen back in to his bed. Is that supposed to make me jealous?”

“That’s enough.” Kristina snapped. “I don’t need to hear this.”

“Oh but you do.” Urs said, moving closer to Kristina. “I left just like you asked me to but I knew you loved me. I was hoping one day you would realise it but you were just too stupid to admit it. Why did you and David break up? Was the dishonesty eating you up everyday?”

Kristina bit her lip hard, drawing blood, trying to concentrate on the pain in her lip and not the pain in her heart; she knew she was close to crying. She hated Urs when he was like this and she hated herself for loving a man that didn’t give it a second thought as he insulted her.

Urs suddenly fell silent.

“Your lip.” Urs said, quietly as he put a hand up to her face.

“Please, don‘t touch me.” Kristina said quietly, her voice quivering as she pushed his hand away.

Urs could feel his chest tighten as he realised that he had caused her yet more pain.

“Look I came here to apologise and all we’ve done is argue again.” Urs said, putting his hands in his pockets. “Do you think we can try again? I would like for us to be friends.”

Kristina stared at Urs. She loved him so much that it hurt her to even say this but there was no way she could let him play around with her emotions, not knowing where she stood in his life.

“I’m sorry, Urs.” Kristina said regretfully. “I would like to say yes but I can’t.”

Urs looked at Kristina, somewhat confused.

“You’ve just proved that you can’t be civil to me for more than five minutes.” Kristina replied. “I don’t know what to expect from you any more, you’ve changed, you’re not the man I used to know.”

“I didn’t mean for this to happen.” Urs said, in a low voice. “I’m sorry.”

“Those words seem to fall out of your mouth so easily, Urs.” Kristina said quietly. “I don’t know what to believe any more. Hopefully for the sake of both our jobs you can show me some manners and respect. Then maybe we can think about friendship. That‘s if you meant what you said, about being friends.”

Urs remained silent.

“I have to go.” Kristina said, after Urs still hadn’t said anything. “Simon will be wondering where I am.”

Kristina left Urs alone in the garden and he watched as she disappeared inside.

“Damn it.” he said under his breath, as he kicked the bench. This wasn’t how he had imagined things going. He was hoping that he could mend things between him and Kristina but once again he had managed to push her away with his stupid comments. What was wrong with him?

**** CHAPTER 55 *****

Kristina breathed a sigh of relief as she stepped inside the building and closed the door to the garden. She looked at Urs one more time before heading upstairs. He stood in the garden watching her but made no attempt to come after her. Deep down inside, Kristina had hoped he would follow her, that he would come after and try to apologise again but this time really mean it and make her believe it. But she knew that was too much to expect from him. Urs continued to stand there.

Urs looked at Kristina, she was watching him through the glass doors. What was she looking at? What was she waiting for? Did she think he was going to go after her and apologise? He wanted to but she had just told him that she didn’t believe his apologies anymore. Urs was thinking of how he could make it up to her, show her that he was genuinely sorry, that he really did want them to be friends. Kristina then turned and disappeared.

It had been several minutes since Kristina had gone back inside and Urs realised that Simon would also be wondering where he was too. He made his way back inside and stepped in to the elevator thinking about Kristina. He was sure she would say yes, to them being friends and was surprised when she said no. Urs was even more surprised when he realised that it actually bothered him, that she didn’t want his friendship and he had lost her trust. He didn’t think he had any feelings for her after she had denied her love for him and told him she didn’t want to see him again. Urs was well aware that he had been acting like an idiot but he was willing to try again, why wasn’t Kristina? Although they had only met each other three times, things had been good between them years ago. Urs treasured those few hours that he spent with her, the night she stayed with him in Paris. Kristina knew Urs had loved her years ago and he was positive she loved him. She never said those words to him but Urs still remembered the way she kissed his palm when he asked her if she loved him. He still remembered the tears in her eyes as they said goodbye, the feeling of her arms around his neck, holding him tightly as she whispered the words I'm sorry to him. If only things had been different. If Urs hadn’t whispered I love you to Kristina, then Stephanie would never have overheard and she wouldn’t have told Kristina. Urs could have kept his love for her a secret and maybe in time things would have happened naturally between them. David and Kristina had eventually gone their separate ways, all Urs had to do was be patient. Urs closed his eyes and slowly shook his head. By saying those three important words to the woman he once loved he had ruined everything.

“Watch out… oh it’s you.”

Urs looked up as he bumped in to someone and grabbed their arms to stop them falling back. It was Kristina. She had just come out of the toilets after checking her lip and was now hurrying back to the studio to talk with Simon.

“I’m sor…” Urs started to say. “It was my fault.”

“That’s okay.” Kristina replied. “No damage done.”

“This really is becoming a habit, us bumping in to one another.” Urs said, laughing nervously. “Maybe someone is trying to tell us something.”

“If I remember right, it was only a couple of weeks ago that you said to me I hope this isn’t going to become a habit so maybe you were trying to tell me something, like stay away? Don‘t worry, I‘ve got the message loud and clear.”

Urs looked shocked at Kristina’s comment. He hadn’t expected that from her, not after she had been talking about showing each other some manners and respect only moments ago.

“Excuse me.” Kristina said, removing Urs’ hands from her arms. “I have to go and see Simon. Are you coming?”

Urs nodded and stood back, gesturing for Kristina to go first. He watched Kristina as she walked a few paces ahead of him. As Urs’ eyes scanned her body he thought back to the time in Paris when she had stayed with him. He could still see her wearing the pyjama bottoms and tank top, which showed off all her womanly curves. He remembered the night he held her in his arms while she cried and he did his best to comfort her, the feeling of her warm body against him as she slept in his arms, her soft skin, her gentle breathing, the scent of her body, the smell of her hair. Urs stopped suddenly. What was he doing? What was he thinking? He was with Saskia, he shouldn’t be thinking about another woman this way. Urs looked at Kristina as she stopped and turned to face him when she realised he had stopped walking.

“Is there something wrong?” she asked, looking back at him. “Or would you prefer to walk alone?”

“No, no I’m coming.” Urs replied, walking quickly to catch up with her. “Sorry, I just remembered something and I… I got distracted. After you.” Urs added, as he gestured for Kristina to enter the elevator first.

The two stood in silence, until Kristina’s mobile went off. She pulled it out of her jacket pocket and read the message. It was from David.

“You okay? Is Urs with you? If you’re not back in five mins I’m sending out a search party.”

Kristina smiled as she read the message. After everything that had happened, she was lucky to still have David’s friendship. She thought things might be difficult between them, now that David knew about Urs but it seemed to have bought them even closer. Kristina then frowned and looked at Urs wondering where things had gone wrong between them. Kristina knew she was the cause of his pain, lying when she told him she didn’t love him. But was that any reason for him to act this way? He must really hate her, to ridicule her, to make her think he’s genuinely sorry but then do his utmost to upset her every time they spoke to each other.

“Everything alright?” Urs asked, when he noticed Kristina looking at him,

“Huh?” Kristina hadn’t realised she was staring at Urs. “Yeah, fine, I was thinking about something, that’s all.”

Kristina closed her mobile and put it back in her pocket just as the elevator doors opened.

“Ladies first.” Urs said, smiling at Kristina as she walked past him.

Kristina politely smiled back at him. That’s when she realised something was different, not the way he looked at her but the way she felt when she looked at him. Even though he was smiling at her, she didn’t get that usual ‘happy’ feeling when she looked at him, the butterflies in her tummy, her heart skipping a beat every time she saw him, the need to be close to him, to touch him, make love to him. Were her feelings for him gradually dying away?

Kristina opened the door and went back inside the studio.

David walked straight over to her and gave a quick glance to Urs as he walked past.

“What the hell happened to your lip?” David said, putting a hand up to her cheek. “He didn’t…”

“No, he didn’t.” Kristina said quickly. “He might be an idiot but I don’t think he would ever hit a woman.”

“So you were with him?” David asked.

Kristina nodded.

“You two still haven’t made up then?” he said, noticing the look on Kristina’s face.

“We did make up, I think.” Kristina said sighing. “But then he did his usual trick and managed to start another argument and ruin it all.”

“What’s up with that guy?” David said, looking at Urs who was now talking to Sebastien.

“I’ve no idea.” Kristina replied, looking over at Urs. “I don’t know him any more, I‘ve no idea what goes through his head.”

“Kristina, there you are.” Simon said, as he approached her. “Let’s go back to my office and talk about what you’ve just heard. I’d love to know what you think of them.”

Kristina said goodbye to David and followed Simon back to his office.

Several hours later and Kristina was returning to her new office. She and Simon had been in a long discussion over the sound of Il Divo and their image and they had made a great deal of progress. Kristina now had to put all her ideas down on paper and start making the necessary arrangements to start the campaign.

“Oh Kristina, there’s something in your office.” Lilly said, as soon as she saw Kristina. “They arrived about half an hour ago.”

“What is it?” Kristina asked.

“You’ll see.” Lilly said, smiling as she got up from her chair.

Kristina walked in to her office with Lilly following behind her.

There on her desk was a huge vase of purple Hyacinths.

“I hope you don’t mind but I put them in water straight away, I didn’t want them to start wilting.” Lilly said as she walked in to Kristina’s office. “I wasn’t sure how long you would be with Simon.”

“No that’s fine.” Kristina replied, as she bent down and inhaled the scent of the flowers. “Do you know who sent them?”

“Oh there’s a card in the front of your diary.” Lilly replied. “And don’t worry, I haven’t read it but if you want to tell me what it says, you‘re more than welcome.”

Kristina looked up at Lilly, who had a huge grin on her face. Kristina couldn’t help laughing at her as she opened her diary and opened the small envelope. As Kristina started to read the card, the smile on her face slowly disappeared.

“Something tells me you’re not going to read out what’s on the card.” Lilly said, noticing the look on Kristina’s face.

Kristina sat down at her desk and sighed.

“They’re from Urs.”

“Oh, that explains a lot then.” Lilly said, glancing at Kristina. “Apparently they mean forgiveness. Or to be exact, please forgive me.”

“How do you know that?” Kristina asked, turning to look at Lilly.

“I just thought they were an odd flower to send a woman.” Lilly replied. “So I looked them up on the internet.”

Kristina continued to stare at the flowers.

“Well, I‘m off now, it‘s gone 6 o‘clock.” Lilly said, turning and walking towards the door. “Is there anything I can do for you before I leave?”

“No, there’s nothing.” Kristina replied. “Thanks for asking, have a great evening.”

Kristina sat down and watched Lilly walk out of the office, before putting on her coat and leaving. Kristina put the card back in her diary and started on her work.

Over the next three hours, Kristina tried several times to get some work done but without much luck. Every time she looked up she saw the flowers and was constantly reminded of Urs. Eventually she’d had enough. She picked up the large vase took them outside, placing them on Lilly’s desk. She then went back to her own office and closed the door.

Kristina opened her diary and saw the card. She picked it up and read it again.

“I’m sorry. I want us to be friends. I’m going to prove every word I say is true.”

She knew Urs was making an effort to be nice but to Kristina it was just another empty apology and it was too little too late.

“You still here?”

Kristina jumped when she heard the voice. She didn’t expect anyone else to still be in the office and was surprised when she looked up and saw David.

“I thought you’d gone home ages ago.” Kristina said.

“No such luck.” David replied, as he closed the door and walked towards Kristina. “We’ve been having problems with one of the songs and we really wanted to get it finished before tomorrow.”

“Any luck?” Kristina asked.

“Not really.” David replied. “Urs seemed a little distracted so we didn’t really get any closer to finishing it. But I’m glad you’re still here.“ David said, as he sat down in the chair opposite Kristina. “I wanted to make sure you were alright.”

“I’m fine.” Kristina replied, smiling at David. “I think I’ve got used to his little outbursts now. To be honest I don‘t care what he says or does anymore.”

“So you’re having second thoughts about Urs?” David asked, sounding a little surprised.

Kristina thought about what David had said, was she having second thoughts? Kristina was surprised when she didn’t cry after Urs’ latest insult. She thought that she wanted to be friends with Urs but she knew that it wouldn’t be a true friendship. He couldn’t say anything nice to her, even when he apologised to her he still ended up insulting her. Her and Urs weren’t meant to be, their time had passed and there was no going back. She had to forget about Urs, she would stay and finish the campaign but after that she would go back to New York. She had tried to forget about Urs once before without much success but this time it would be different. Urs wasn’t the same man. She didn’t know who he was anymore and she didn’t like what she saw. How could she love a man who showed her so much disrespect, so much hate and caused her so much pain? The man Kristina had fallen in love with all those years ago had disappeared. Kristina felt as if a heavy weight had been lifted from her shoulders. After being in love with Urs for so long, longing for something she thought she could never have, longing to hear him say he loved her again, Kristina realised it all meant nothing. She had been stupid, wasting her life on a man who didn’t love her anymore. Abigail had given Kristina a second chance at life and Kristina wasn’t about to waste it on Urs. There and then Kristina made another promise, not to God but to herself. To move on, forget Urs, start her life over and find happiness with someone who truly loved her. This time she wouldn’t let it slip away.

“No second thoughts.” Kristina replied. “Just one final thought. Me and Urs, it‘s never going to happen. I‘m over him.”

“But it was only a couple of weeks ago that you told me you still loved him.” David said, quietly. “Maybe you’re just angry and hurt. You don’t really mean it.”

“I do, David.” Kristina said, faintly. “I’ve slowly come to realise that the man I fell in love with four years ago isn’t the same man that I see today. I can’t love a man who doesn’t exist any more.”

“But Krissy…” David started to say.

“No but’s David.” Kristina interrupted. “It’s plain and simple, I don‘t love Urs anymore.”

***** CHAPTER 56 *****

Urs had hoped Kristina might come and see him to thank him for the flowers but he hadn’t heard a thing from her. He was beginning to think that maybe the flowers hadn’t arrived so Urs had decided to pay Kristina one last visit before leaving for the night. As Urs opened the double doors, the first thing he noticed was a large vase of Hyacinths on Lilly’s desk. Urs wondered why they were there and not in Kristina’s office. Urs made his way over to the other side of the office and was about to knock on Kristina’s door when he heard voices.

“I’m fine. I think I’ve got used to his little outbursts now. To be honest I don‘t care what he says or does anymore.”

“So you’re having second thoughts about Urs?”

“No second thoughts. Just one final thought. Me and Urs, it‘s never going to happen. I‘m over him.”

“But it was only a couple of weeks ago that you told me you loved him. Maybe you’re just angry and hurt. You don’t really mean it.”

“I do, David. I’ve slowly come to realise that the man I fell in love with four years ago isn’t the same man that I see today. I can’t love a man who doesn’t exist any more.”

“But Krissy…”

“No but’s David. It’s plain and simple, I don‘t love Urs anymore.”

Urs stood at the door, slowly shaking his head in utter disbelief at what Kristina had just said. He finally knew it was true, Kristina did love him. He should’ve been happy or relieved to hear her admit that she loved him but then he thought about what else Kristina said to David. Not anymore. Urs couldn’t believe that was true, two weeks ago she had told David that she still loved him. Kristina couldn’t stop loving him in just a matter of a few days. But Urs then realised that all his hurtful comments and stupid remarks must have taken their toll on Kristina and destroyed any love that she had for him. What had he done?

“I can’t believe you mean that, Krissy.”

“Well, it’s true David. I thought you’d be pleased to hear me say it.”

“Come on, Krissy. I’m not that heartless. If I honestly thought he could make you happy then I’d be more than pleased for the both of you but if you‘re sure… well, I guess it’s a good thing. After all, he’s with Saskia.”

“And?”

“He’s already shown you, on numerous occasions that he can’t make you happy. He doesn’t deserve you. So if you‘re certain over him then maybe you can finally start living again.”

Urs couldn’t listen to anymore. He quietly retreated from the door and tried to collect his thoughts.

“Come on, let’s get you out of here.” David said, getting up from his chair. “It’s gone 9 o’clock.”

“I didn’t realise it was so late.” Kristina said, glancing at her watch as she stood up.

“Have you had anything to eat yet?” David asked.

Kristina shook her head.

“No, I was going to get something on my way home.”

“How about we stop off and get some takeaway then.” David said, opening the door for Kristina. “My treat.”

“I think I can afford to buy you dinner, David.” Kristina said, as she switched off the light.

“The amount Simon’s paying you, I’m sure you can.” David said, grinning. “But I still owe you for cooking dinner the other night.”

“Are you serious about cooking lessons or were you joking?” Kristina asked, turning round to face David.

“What do you think?” David said, winking. “Can you see me in an apron?”

“I knew it was too good to be true.” Kristina said, laughing.

“Someone’s a lucky woman!” David said, as he looked over Kristina’s shoulder.

Kristina turned to see what David was looking at.

“You mean the hyacinths?” Kristina asked.

David nodded.

“They’re from Urs.”

“Urs bought Lilly flowers?” David said, looking surprised.

“No, he bought them for me.” Kristina replied.

“He sent you Hyacinths?” David said, with raised eyebrows. “Bit of a odd thing to send to a woman isn’t it?”

“That’s exactly what Lilly said earlier on.” Kristina replied, looking at the flowers. “So she looked them up on the internet and apparently they mean forgiveness, or please forgive me.”

“So why are they out here on Lilly’s desk and not on your own?” David asked.

“Because they were too much of a distraction.” Kristina said, turning and heading for the door. “Every time I looked up, I saw those damn flowers and kept thinking of him.”

David stopped and gently took hold of Kristina’s arm.

“Krissy.” he said, softly.

Kristina turned and looked up at David.

“Did you really mean it, when you said you don’t love Urs anymore?” David said, warily.

Kristina looked at David.

“You don’t believe me?”

“I believe you if that's what you say.” David said, giving her a reassuring smile.

“Then what’s wrong?” Kristina asked. “Tell me.”

“I just want to be sure.” David replied. “I want to be sure you know what you’re doing. Urs was really distracted earlier, I think the situation between you two is bothering him. You might have actually hit home, maybe he got the message.”

“And what message would that be?” Kristina said, raising her voice slightly. “That I think he’s a self obsessed jerk. He thinks the whole world revolves around him and that when he says jump I’m supposed to say how high?”

“Okay okay.” David said, stepping back from Kristina. “I just got the impression that he really has come to his senses. I think Urs knows how badly he’s treated you these past couple of weeks.”

“And he thinks a lousy bunch of flowers is going to make up for everything?” Kristina snapped. “Have you forgotten what he said to me?”

“Krissy!” David exclaimed, taking hold of her arms again. “I’m not the enemy here, okay? Calm down.”

Kristina took a deep breath and let out a heavy sigh. She could feel tears starting to sting the backs of her eyes.

“Damn that man!” Kristina cursed, as she tried desperately to blink away the tears. “I swore I’d never cry over him again.”

“I’m sorry, Krissy.” David said, as he pulled her in to his arms. “I shouldn’t have started all this talk about Urs.”

“No, it’s alright.” Kristina said, gently pushing David away. “I’m the one who should be apologising. But that man, he just makes me so mad.” she said, clenching her fists tightly.

“I’m guessing the flowers didn’t do the trick then?” David said, laughing quietly. “Urs asking for forgiveness.”

“I’m not one to hold grudges, David.” Kristina replied. “I know I’m to blame for the way he’s acting. I can forgive but I can’t forget, not after some of the things he’s said to me. That‘s why as soon as this campaign is finished, I‘m leaving London.”

“You’re doing what?” David said, unable to hide the look of shock on his face. “But you live here, what about your job?”

“I can get a job anywhere, David.” Kristina replied. “As for London, it’s not home, New York‘s my real home and I miss it. You must know how that feels.”

“Of course I do but we’re not talking about me.” David replied. “We’re talking about you. You and Urs, you two meeting after all this time, it could mean something. This could be a second chance for you and him.”

“It could mean any number of things, David.” Kristina replied. “How do you know it’s not you and me that’s been given a second chance?”

David looked stunned as he stared at Kristina.

“I’m sorry.” Kristina said, quickly. “That was a silly thing to say.”

“Do you think so?” David said, gently brushing the back of his fingers over her cheek. “I don’t think it’s silly.”

“David, I thought we talked about this.” Kristina said, quietly. “Things can never go back to the way the way the were.”

“I know.” David said, softly as he ran his hands down her arms. “I don’t expect things to be like before.”

“So what do you expect then?” Kristina asked, slightly confused. “Do you want us to get back together?”

“Do you?” David asked.

“I asked you first.” Kristina replied. “Do you?”

“You haven’t said no.” David said, gently pulling her in to his arms. “Does that mean yes? Or maybe?”

“Why do you keep answering my questions with a question?” Kristina asked, as she looked up at David.

“Do I?” David said, smiling down at her.

“You’re doing it again.” Kristina said, quietly. “Are you doing this on purpose?”

“I don’t know, am I?” David murmured, as he lowered his mouth to hers.

Kristina leant back in David’s arms, turning her head to the side in an attempt to avoid his kiss.

“David, what are you doing?” she asked.

“Do you really need me to tell you?” David replied

“There you go again.” Kristina said, sighing. “Answering a question with a question.”

“But you want it as much as I do.” David said, softly.

“You don’t know that.” Kristina muttered, as David’s lips skimmed across her neck. “David, please, this really isn’t what I want.”

“Are you sure about that, Krissy?” David whispered. “Your body is telling me something different.”

David tugged lightly at her blouse pulling it free from her skirt, Kristina didn’t make any objections as he slowly slid his hand underneath the material.

Kristina sighed and leant in to David’s body as he lightly stroked his hand up and down over the curve of her waist, occasionally brushing his thumb across the thin fabric of her bra, causing Kristina to gasp. His hand finally came to rest on her hip. David smiled to himself just before gently kissing her neck, his tongue burning a tantalising line down her throat.

“I’d forgotten how responsive your body is to my touch, Krissy.” David muttered against her jaw. “Krissy, let me love you again.”

“No, David, please, we can’t do this….” Kristina mumbled.

“Why not, Krissy?” David whispered. “I know why, do you want me to tell you?”

Kristina tried to speak but her body was still reacting to David’s touch.

“I’ll tell you why, Krissy.” David whispered against her cheek. “You still love him don’t you. Tell me the truth, Krissy,”

“David I…”

“Tell me, Krissy.” David said, as he gently kissed her neck and slowly moved down to her collarbone. “Tell me the truth, be honest with yourself. You still love him don‘t you. Say it.”

“Yes.” Kristina cried softly, as tears filled her eyes. “Yes I still love him but I wish I didn’t.”

David pulled her close to him. As much as he still loved her, David could see that she still loved Urs and he had to make her see it too. Denying her feelings for Urs wasn’t going to solve anything.

“I’m sorry, beautiful.” David said, as he gently brushed his thumb across Kristina’s cheek and wiped her tears away. “I had to do this.”

“No, you didn’t.” Kristina said tearfully, pulling away from David. “I would have forgotten about him eventually. I just needed time.”

“How much time?” David asked. “Were you going to let another four years pass?”

“Why did you try and kiss me, David? You could have just talked to me.” Kristina asked, as she started to tuck her blouse in. “If you were trying to embarrass me then you’ve done a great job. I feel… I feel so… I don’t know what I feel anymore.” Kristina said as she leant against Lilly’s desk and started to cry.

“Krissy, I had to make you see that you still loved him.” David said softly as he knelt down in front of her. “I agree it was a stupid thing for me to do but I knew that if you still loved him there was no way you would give yourself to me.”

“But I would’ve done, willingly.” Kristina said as she hung her head, tears rolling down her cheeks and on to her blouse. “There hasn’t been anyone else since you, David. You brought back so many memories of when we were still together and I‘ve… I’ve been so lonely.”

“Krissy, I’m sorry.” David said, placing a hand on her knee. “I didn’t realise. If I had known I wouldn‘t have played those silly mind games on you.”

“David, will you hold me? Please.” she said, weakly. “It’s been so long since someone just held me.”

David took Kristina’s hand and led her over to the couch where they sat down. David wrapped his arms around Kristina and pulled her close to him, her head resting against his chest. The two sat in silence but not an uncomfortable silence. Once again they had come to a new understanding and David had surprised Kristina by his never ending friendship, bringing them closer still.

***** CHAPTER 57 *****

After hearing Kristina tell David she no longer loved him, Urs made his way back to the studio to collect his belongings before leaving for the night. But almost an hour later he found himself still sitting in the lounge of the studio, struggling to take everything in. So much had happened in these last few hours, arguing with Kristina twice in one day, discovering that Kristina really did love him but now she didn’t and the fact that he had managed to turn her against him. She no longer loved him. Urs was confused; if he didn’t love her anymore why the hell did it hurt him so much to hear her say those words? Urs picked up his coat and walked out of the studio and headed for the elevator.

“Are you sure you’re alright?” David asked.

“I’ll be fine after a cold shower.” Kristina replied, giving a cheeky smile to David. “I see you haven’t lost your touch.”

“I’m really sorry for doing that, Krissy.” David said, looking a little embarrassed. “I just couldn’t believe that you were over him so quickly.”

“David, please don’t worry about it.” Kristina replied. “I understand why you did it.”

“You do?” David asked, looking slightly relieved.

Kristina nodded.

“I still can’t believe you did it but yes I understand.” Kristina said, smiling at David. “I wish you hadn’t proved me wrong though, because now I don’t know what to do.”

“About what?” David asked.

“About Urs, of course.” Kristina said. “I had managed to convince myself that I didn’t love him anymore, I had this plan all worked out in my head and now I‘m no better off. How am I supposed to work alongside him?”

“Why don’t you tell him how you feel?” David asked. “It’s the only way you will know for sure if he loves you. You might feel better, knowing one way or the other.”

“I’ve been thinking about that a lot.” Kristina replied. “But he’s with Saskia and I don’t want to put him in the same position that I was in, when we were still together. I don‘t want to make him choose and then worry that he made the wrong choice.”

“You really do love him, don’t you.” David said, smiling at Kristina.

Kristina nodded.

“I wish I didn’t though. Until I can forget him I don‘t think I‘ll ever be able to love anyone again.” Kristina said quietly. “David, am I always going to be on my own? I don’t want to die alone, I want to share my life with someone.”

“Krissy, I know we’ll never be lovers again but you’ve always got me as a friend.” David said, softly, putting his arm around her as they walked out of the office. “You’ll never be alone and I‘m sure given time you‘ll get over Urs and find someone else.”

Kristina smiled at David and then looked away before stopping suddenly.

“What’s wrong?” David asked, noticing the look on Kristina’s face. He then saw Urs waiting for the elevator.

“Can we take the stairs?” Kristina asked.

“Don’t be silly.” David replied, quickly taking Kristina’s hand. “Nothing’s going to happen while I’m with you.”

“But David, you don’t understand, I…”

Urs turned to look in their direction when he heard voices and that’s when Kristina had stopped talking, with David almost dragging her to the elevator.

“Hello David.” Urs said looking at David.

“Hi Urs.” David replied.

“Hello Krissy.” Urs said, his voice now a little softer as he looked at Kristina and smiled.

“Hello Urs.” Kristina said faintly, giving a small smile at Urs.

“I’m surprised to see you still here.” David said, looking at Urs. “I thought you went home an hour ago.”

“I had a few things to do before leaving.” Urs replied. “I’m surprised to see you both still here too.”

“Krissy has always been a workaholic.” David said, letting go of Kristina’s hand so he could put his arm around her. “I knew she would still be here and would need some convincing to go home so she‘s coming back to mine for dinner.”

Kristina smiled at David and then looked at Urs only to see him watching her; she quickly lowered her eyes. She then remembered the flowers. Kristina could hardly find the courage to say hello to Urs but she knew that if she didn’t mention the flowers it would seem rude.

The elevators doors opened and they all stepped inside. No one spoke and the silence was too unbearable for Kristina.

“Thank you for the flowers.” she heard herself say.

Urs looked across at Kristina.

“You’re welcome.” Urs replied. “It’s the least I could do, after the way I’ve treated you these last two weeks. After seeing them on Lilly’s desk, I wasn‘t sure if you liked them or not.”

“Yes I loved them but I…”

Kristina was desperately trying to think of a reason to give Urs without upsetting him. Then it suddenly registered. Urs had seen the flowers on Lilly’s desk. When had Urs been in the main office? Kristina had only moved those flowers on to Lilly’s desk after she had gone home. That would mean that Urs would’ve been outside her office at some point, she wondered why he had been there.

“… I’m allergic to them.” she continued.

“Oh I didn‘t know, I‘m sorry.” Urs said, his face turning a light shade of red when he realised what he had said. “I seem to be apologising to you a lot just lately don’t I.”

Kristina gave a weak smile to Urs.

“So is it just Hyacinths you’re allergic to or all flowers?” Urs asked.

“Just Hyacinths.” Kristina replied.

Silence returned to the elevator. It didn’t seem to bother David and he seemed oblivious to the fact that Urs and Kristina couldn’t look away from each other, each wondering what the other was thinking.

Now that Urs knew Kristina had been in love with him he was trying to remember the times they had been together. He was trying to remember the look in her eyes, if it had always been there or if he had imagined it. When the two of them first met in New York, after Kristina had bumped in to him; that was when it happened. That was the time he fell in love with Kristina and he was sure that was when she fell in love with him; even though neither of them realised it at the time. Urs had always wondered about that look in Kristina’s eye, Marius had seen it too but Urs had never been sure what it meant until now. Urs continued to look in to Kristina’s eyes, looking for the love she had for him. Urs couldn’t see it, only hurt and sadness and he knew he was probably the cause of it. Urs couldn’t take his eyes off Kristina, wondering what she was thinking when she looked at him. What did she see?

Kristina was thinking back to the time she had visited Paris and stayed with Urs. She had been so nervous about seeing Urs again but as soon as she walked through the doors at the airport and saw his face she felt relaxed. She kept picturing his smile, the way he looked at her, his eyes filled with a look of love, just for her. She wished he would look at her that way again. Kristina closed her eyes trying to block out the images of Urs but when she opened them she saw him, still looking at her.

The elevators doors opened; Kristina stepped out first, followed by David then Urs.

“Seeing as we’re all going to the same place, how about we share a taxi?” Urs said, looking at David and Kristina.

“Sounds like a good idea to me.” David replied.

“Okay, well it’s pouring with rain, you guys stay under the porch and I’ll find a taxi.”

The three of them exited the building and David and Kristina stood under the porch and watched as Urs ran out in to the rain.

David looked at Kristina and gave her a big grin, while she only glared back at him.

“Why did you say yes?” Kristina said, trying to sound annoyed. “It was bad enough being stuck in an elevator with the guy for two minutes. Now you expect me to sit in a taxi with him for twenty minutes.”

“Come on you’ll enjoy it.” David said. “The two of you couldn’t take your eyes off each other.”

Kristina’s look of anger disappeared and she started to blush.

“Hey I’m not an idiot.” David said, quietly laughing. “I have eyes too you know!”

“Just because he was looking at me doesn’t mean anything.” Kristina replied. “He probably can’t wait to get away from me.”

“Sure.” David said, slowly as he nodded. “He can’t wait to get away from you so he suggested sharing a taxi.”

“He’s being polite.” Kristina said.

“Hey you two, come on.” Urs shouted to them. “I’ve got us a taxi.”

David and Kristina ran to the taxi and got in.

While David and Urs were talking, Kristina was trying her hardest not to look at Urs but found it impossible. His hair was wet from the rain and his once straight hair was now curly again. Every now and then, drops of water would trickle down the side of his face, down his neck and down his chest, disappearing past the opening of his shirt. Kristina could feel her body start to tremble as she imagined opening his shirt just a little further to watch the drops of water slowly run down his chest. At one point Kristina felt the urge to reach out and undo his shirt all the way. Kristina had already tipped food over Urs, she didn’t want to upset him even further by sexually harassing him.

Her body was still reeling from David’s touch and she didn’t trust herself. Kristina placed her hands either side of her on the seat, palms face down and sat on her hands. Kristina thought she would be safe, but she watched him as a single drop of rain slowly ran down Urs forehead and down the side of his nose. Kristina was hoping it would follow the same path as the other raindrops but this one had other ideas. It seemed to stop then slowly start moving again, only to stop at the corner of his mouth. Kristina sat glued to her seat and watched in amazement as Urs opened his mouth slightly and slowly ran his tongue across his top lip before licking the rain drop from the corner of his mouth. Kristina had never seen anything so erotic and had to force herself to breathe again.

“You alright there Krissy?”

“Huh?”

Kristina turned to see David looking at her.

“I said, are you okay?”

Kristina swallowed hard, trying to compose herself.

“Fine.” she said, in a whisper.

Kristina looked back at Urs.

“I’m guessing you need that cold shower more than ever.” David whispered in her ear.

“That’s not funny.” Kristina said, weakly. “If it wasn’t for you I wouldn’t be feeling this way.”

“What way would that be?” David asked, laughing quietly.

While David and Kristina were talking, Urs was looking at Kristina. He had seen her watching him. Urs could feel the stray raindrop tickling his skin as it ran down his face but he had been trying to ignore it. He had glanced quickly at Kristina only to see her looking him, or more precisely the raindrop. Urs didn’t even realise what he had done until it was too late but Kristina hadn’t taken her eyes off him as he opened his mouth and licked the water from his mouth. After seeing the look on Kristina’s face, Urs had wanted to laugh but then realised that he had some kind of hold over her. Maybe she wasn’t completely over him. Could she still have feelings for him?

The taxi pulled up outside the apartment building and while David paid the driver, Kristina and Urs got out of the taxi. It was still raining hard, so Kristina tried to protect herself from the rain a little but covering her head with her bag. Kristina was taken by surprise when Urs grabbed her hand as they ran across the road. As soon as they had reached the doorway to the apartment building, Urs let go of Kristina’s hand and took out the door key from his pocket.

“I’m sorry for what I did in the cafeteria.” Kristina said, suddenly. “Tipping the food over you.”

Urs quickly unlocked the door and stepped inside.

“Don’t worry about it.” Urs replied, smiling at her. “I deserved it.”

“I’m not denying that.” Kristina said, politely. “But I still feel bad about it.”

Urs smiled at Kristina.

“How about we just start again?” Urs asked, taking his coat off. “I know you said you couldn’t be friends with me, not yet. But can we call it a truce?”

Urs held his hand out to Kristina.

“Okay.” she replied, as she took Urs’ hand. “Truce.”

“I look forward to getting to know you again.” Urs said, as he leant in and kissed Kristina on the cheek.

“You too.” Kristina replied softly, as she inhaled the scent of his wet skin.

“Does this mean no more arguments?” David asked, as he came bursting through the door.

“I hope so.” Kristina replied.

“No more arguments.” Urs said confidently.

The three of them made their way to the elevator, this time the silence was bearable.

As the elevator doors opened they said goodnight and went their separate ways.

Kristina stopped and turned her head to watch Urs as he walked to his room.

“Come on I’m hungry woman.” David said, jokingly as he grabbed Kristina’s hand and started walking a few feet until he came to his door.

Kristina looked at Urs again. He had just reached his door when he turned and looked in her direction. He gave her a big smile and a nod before opening the door and disappearing inside.

“So you decided to come home then!” Saskia snapped, arms folded across her chest, with a look of thunder on her face.

***** CHAPTER 58 *****

“I’m sorry Saskia.” Urs said, hanging his wet coat on the back of the chair. “But there’s a couple of songs we’ve been struggling with and we wanted to try and finish them.”

“So why have you only just arrived home now?” Saskia asked, glaring at Urs. “I saw Carlos and Sebastien arrive home over an hour ago.”

“I didn’t realise the time.” Urs replied, as he walked down the hall and in to the bathroom. “I was busy doing other things and then I bumped in to David and Kristina.”

“You knew I wanted to talk to you, Urs.” Saskia said, angrily as she followed Urs in to the bathroom. “Or were you hoping I would just forget about earlier?”

“I hadn’t forgotten, Saskia.” Urs replied, as he started to take off his wet clothes. “I’m here now so why don’t you tell me what it is that’s bothering you.”

“Tell you what’s bothering me!” Saskia exclaimed. “I’ll tell you what’s bothering me. Kristina! You forgot to tell me that your ex-girlfriend is working for Simon.”

Urs picked up a towel and wrapped it around his waist before picking up another towel and walking in to the bedroom.

“Saskia, you’ve got it all wrong.” Urs said, calmly as he started to dry his hair. “Kristina has never been my girlfriend.”

“I don’t understand.” Saskia said, now confused. “But she said…”

“When I first met Kristina, it was at the Tony Awards in New York, back in January 2000.” Urs said, sitting down on the bed. “Her and David were seeing each other and they’d been living together for a few months.”

“Did she leave him for you?” Saskia asked. “Is that why things are a bit tense between you and him?”

“No, she didn’t leave him.” Urs replied. “And things aren’t tense between me and David, we get on fine.”

Saskia shrugged her shoulders.

“If Kristina was with David, did you two have an affair then?” Saskia asked.

“No!” Urs exclaimed, sounding shocked. “What sort of a man do you think I am? I could never do that to anyone. Besides, we only met three times.”

“I’m sorry, Urs.” Saskia said, as she sat down on the bed beside him. “I know you wouldn’t but I still don’t understand what Kristina meant when she said someone you once loved.”

“I’m going to be honest with you.” Urs said, as he took Saskia’s hand and gently squeezed it. “Even though Kristina was with David, I did have feelings for her.”

“What sort of feelings?” Saskia asked.

Urs took a deep breath. He had to tell Saskia everything.

“I fell in love with her.”

Saskia was quiet for a moment, deep in thought.

“Did she know how you felt about her?” she asked finally.

Urs nodded.

“She came to Paris one day and found out by accident from… a friend.” Urs replied, not wanting to mention Stephanie‘s name. “When Kristina asked me about it, I told her it was true, that I loved her but she said didn’t feel the same way.”

“And you never saw her again?” Saskia asked.

“I saw her once after that.” Urs replied, faintly. “Kristina was in hospital after having major surgery and she called me late one night.”

“Why was she in hospital?” Saskia asked, curious to know what happened.

“Kristina was very ill a few years ago.” Urs said in a low voice. “She had problems with her kidneys and needed a transplant. Her sister, Abigail, was a donor for her and she had a bad reaction to one of the drugs and almost died.”

“Oh, I didn’t know.” Saskia said, quietly.

“I don’t think many people do, so please don’t say anything.” Urs replied.

“No, of course I won’t.” Saskia replied. “But Urs, there’s one thing I don’t understand.”

“What’s that?” Urs asked.

“If you didn’t have a relationship with Kristina and she never felt the same way about you, how can you say that you were in love with her?” Saskia asked. “Surely that’s not real love.”

Urs shrugged his shoulders.

“I don’t know.” Urs replied faintly. “I thought it was real at the time. All I know is that I was attracted to her from the moment I saw her. She was all I could think about.”

“If you were so in love with her, what went wrong?” Saskia asked. “When you introduced me to Kristina the other week, you didn’t act as if she was someone you were once in love with. Why were the two of you arguing earlier?”

Urs had been trying to answer that same question all day. And he still hadn’t come up with a reasonable answer.

“I don’t really know.” Urs replied. “Today wasn’t the first time we argued either. We just don’t seem to get on any more. It took me a while to get over her and seeing her after all these years just brought back painful memories. I think I resented her for rejecting me and just wanted to get back at her, cause her pain.”

“That’s not like you.” Saskia said, frowning. “It’s not Kristina’s fault that she didn’t feel the same way about you, at least she was honest with you. Why would you want to be rude to her?”

Urs got up from the bed and stood with his back to Saskia. Kristina hadn’t been honest with him, she had lied. Urs could still hear those words going round and round in his head, Kristina telling him she didn’t love him and that they couldn’t see each other again. He should have realised she was lying about her feelings for him; why else would she make a promise to God? Urs should never have left Kristina that night; he should have stayed and talked her out of it.

“Urs.”

Urs turned and looked at Saskia.

“Are you alright?” Saskia asked.

“I’m okay.” Urs replied, smiling. “And I think things will be okay with Kristina now. We called a truce, so no more arguments.”

“Urs.” Saskia said, quietly as she got up from the bed and stood beside him.

“What’s wrong?” Urs asked, noticing the sad look on Saskia‘s face.

“Are you still in love with her?” she asked, not quite sure if she wanted to hear the answer.

Urs smiled at Saskia.

“No.” Urs replied, as gently caressed her cheek. “Kristina is my past and you are my future. You’re the woman that I‘m in love with.”

Saskia gave a weak smile to Urs.

“You don’t look convinced.” Urs said as he undid his towel and let it drop to the floor. “Maybe I need to show you just how much I love you.”

“Urs, you’re all wet!” Saskia screamed, as Urs wrapped his arms around her and fell back on the bed with her.

“So help me dry off.” Urs whispered in her ear, making Saskia giggle as the whiskers on his chin tickled her neck.

****************

“What did you want to eat?” David asked, as he sat down on the couch, next to Kristina.

“I’m not bothered.” Kristina replied. “What ever you want I’ll go along with.”

“What’s on your mind?” David asked, when he noticed Kristina staring in to space. “Apart from the obvious.”

Kristine turned and looked at David.

“What makes you think there’s something on my mind?”

“I can tell by the look on your face.” David replied. “Come on, out with it.”

“There’s something I think you should know.” Kristina said.

“What is it?”

“I don’t know how to say this but… Urs thinks you and me are sleeping together.” Kristina said, blushing.

David laughed. “Why would he think that?”

“Do you remember that night I fell asleep here?” Kristina asked.

David nodded.

“When I left here in the morning, we got in to the same elevator.” Kristina replied. “He was his usual pleasant self and made a few snide comments about… well, it doesn’t matter what he said but he thought we had spent the night together and I sort of let him think it was true.”

David continued to laugh.

“You’re not mad?” Kristina asked, looking a little surprised.

“Why should I be mad?” David said, still laughing. “Now we know why he’s been acting like an idiot.”

Kristina was confused.

“Don’t you get it?” David asked. “He thinks we’re together right?”

Kristina nodded.

“He’s jealous, Krissy.” David replied. “He might not realise it but he’s as jealous as hell.”

“I’m not so sure.” Kristina replied. “He’s with Saskia, why would he be jealous of you?”

“He might well be with Saskia.” David said, leaning back on the couch. “But he once loved you, seeing you again with me might bring back memories.”

Kristina didn’t answer. Maybe there was some truth in what David had said.

“Perhaps we should let him keep on thinking that you and I are together.” David suggested, with a sly look on his face.

“I don’t know.” Kristina replied. “What good would that do?”

“Not much I suppose.” David said, shrugging his shoulders. “But it would be fun.”

“David you’re cruel.” Kristina said, giggling. “I know he’s been acting like a jerk but no, I don’t think it’s such a good idea. Besides, we‘ve called a truce, I don‘t want to ruin that.”

“Just a thought.” David replied. “So, back to food, what do you want to eat?”

*******************

“Abby?”

Abigail turned around to see Carlos standing in the doorway.

“What are you looking at?” Carlos asked, as he walked towards Abigail, who was sitting in the window seat.

“I was just looking outside.” Abigail replied. “It’s been raining for hours, I‘ve never seen weather like this in London.”

“And that bothers you?” Carlos asked, as he sat down beside her.

Abigail shook her head.

“No, it just reminded me of Brian.” Abigail said, quietly. “I remember the last time it rained this hard in Paris and it flooded the roads. Brian couldn’t get to work and had to stay at home. He wasn’t best pleased as he had an important meeting which could have meant big money. But he lost the deal which meant more arguments and…”

Abigail looked down at her hands in her lap and started to play with her wedding ring.

“More beatings?” Carlos continued, as he took both her hands in his.

Abigail nodded and then looked up at Carlos.

“I haven’t thought about Brian for months.” Abigail replied, looking back outside the window. “I thought I’d managed to forget about him.”

“After what that man did to you, it‘s understandable that you can‘t forget him, Abby.” Carlos said, gently caressing her cheek. “But you know I will never treat you the way he did. One day you will forget him.”

“I know it’s going to take time.” Abigail said, smiling at Carlos.

“How about we have an early night.” Carlos said, standing up and pulling Abigail to her feet. “Today’s been a long day and I’m feeling sleepy.”

“Really?” Abigail sighed, tilting her head backwards as Carlos moved from the side of her neck to her throat. “That’s a shame, because I’m not feeling sleepy at all. I guess you‘ll be going to bed alone.”

“I have no intentions of going to bed alone.” Carlos said, taking Abby‘s hand in his, leading her towards the bedroom. “And I‘m definitely not going to sleep.”

“You’ve woken up all of a sudden?” Abigail asked, giving him a cheeky look.

“Something like that.” Carlos growled, as he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her in to the bedroom.

***** CHAPTER 59 *****

“Where are you going?” Abigail asked sleepily, as she watched Carlos get out of bed and slip on his robe.

“I’m going to make us breakfast.” Carlos replied, turning to look at Abigail.

“But I always make us breakfast in bed.” Abigail said, sitting up.

“I know.” Carlos said, leaning down so that his face was only inches from Abigail’s. “That’s why I decided to make it instead.”

“But I like doing things for you.” Abigail said, smiling. “Why don’t you let me do it?”

Carlos shook his head.

“No, you stay here and keep the bed warm for me.” Carlos whispered, before kissing Abigail.

Abigail laid back down and watched as Carlos opened the bedroom door and disappeared. Abigail had talked many times to Carlos about finding a job and contributing to their expenses but Carlos refused to hear of it. In Carlos’ eyes, Abigail had been through enough with Brian’s abuse. Carlos wanted to give her the life she never had, the life she deserved. He didn’t want her to be stuck in an office for forty hours a week, doing a job she didn’t like. He wanted her to spend her time doing something she liked, something she enjoyed. Carlos had tried to talk Abigail in to taking up studying again, follow her dream of becoming a singer. But for now, Abigail was quite happy to stay with Carlos and look after him, do everything she could to make him happy, the way he made her happy.

Carlos soon returned with breakfast; scrambled eggs, ham, toast, orange juice and strawberries.

“You’ve got mail.” Carlos said, as he placed the tray on the bed and handed Abigail an envelope.

“It’s from Paris.” Abigail commented. “I wonder who it can be from. Jeanette is the only one who knows where I am but it doesn’t look like her handwriting.”

As Carlos started on his breakfast, Abigail read the letter.

“What’s wrong, Abby?” Carlos said, putting his plate down on the tray after noticing Abigail looked sad. “Bad news?”

“It’s from her sister.” Abigail said, nodding her head slowly as her eyes started to fill with tears. “She thought I ought to know…”

“Know what?” Carlos asked. “What’s happened?”

“Jeanette died in hospital last week.” Abigail replied, tearfully.

“Died?” Carlos said, surprised. “How? What was wrong with her? She never mentioned being ill in any of her letters to you.”

Abigail and Jeanette Lavelle had stayed in touch ever since Abigail had left Paris with Carlos several years ago with her help. Abigail’s last letter had been to tell Jeanette about the move to England.

“Abby?”

Abigail looked at Carlos.

“Sorry?” Abigail replied, looking slightly dazed. “What did you say?”

“What was wrong with Jeanette? Was she ill?”

“No, nothing was wrong with her.” Abigail replied. “She died from a head injury. It says here that the police seemed to think she came home and disturbed a burglar. It looks like there was some kind of struggle. She was knocked unconscious and never woke up.”

“Do they know who it was?” Carlos asked. “Have they arrested anyone?”

“It doesn’t say.” Abigail replied, putting the letter back in the envelope.

“Are you alright?” Carlos said, taking the envelope from Abigail and putting it on the nightstand.

“I’m okay.” she replied. “It was just a bit of a shock, that’s all.”

Carlos moved closer to Abigail and put his arms around her.

“Did you want to go to the funeral or are we too late?”

“It’s in two days time.” Abigail replied. “But I don’t think I could face it. And what if Brian was there?”

“Somehow I can’t see him showing up.” Carlos said. “He doesn’t have much time for anyone but himself. But if you change your mind, just let me know and I’ll talk to Simon about taking a day or two off work.” Carlos added, as he leant across, gently brushing his lips against hers. “Now, are you going to eat this lovely breakfast I made before it gets cold?”

Carlos handed Abigail the tray and watched as she ate her breakfast. Carlos had been thinking about the contents of the letter from Jeanette’s sister. He was worried about how Jeanette had died. What if it wasn’t a burglar? What if it was someone closer to home, someone they knew? A thought flashed through Carlos’ mind but he instantly dismissed it. He was jumping to conclusions.

******************

When Urs woke up, Saskia was laying on her side, with her back to him. He moved closer to her and slipped an arm over her waist. Urs had shown Saskia several times last night, just how much he loved her; and he did love her. It had taken Urs a long time to forget Kristina and since meeting Saskia, he couldn’t remember the last time he had had been happier.

Saskia stirred and Urs pulled her closer to him, gently nuzzling the back of her neck. Saskia sighed contentedly, one of her hands gently caressing his hand that rested leisurely on her stomach. She had been worried that Urs still had feelings for Kristina but Urs had reassured her that he was over Kristina. Yet something was still bothering Saskia. Urs was one of the most kind and gentlest men she had ever met. For Urs to intentionally go out of his way to be rude to Kristina and upset her, it was almost unbelievable it was the same man. Urs’ feelings must have been very strong for Kristina for him to react in such a way that was totally out of character for him. Saskia couldn’t help wondering if he still felt something for her, it might not be love but there was obviously something there for him to feel hurt and the need to cause her pain. But Saskia had soon forgotten those questions when Urs dropped his towel on the floor. She had never been able to resist Urs and soon all doubts were erased from her mind.

Urs sensed that Saskia was now awake, he could tell by her breathing. Saskia brought his hand to her mouth and gently kissed his palm.

“I’m sorry.” she whispered.

Urs quickly pulled his hand back.

Saskia turned over and looked at Urs.

“What’s the matter?” she asked, frowning as Urs pulled away from her. “I didn’t say anything wrong did I? I just wanted to apologise for last night, asking you all those questions.”

“Nothing’s wrong.” Urs replied, as he got out of bed and walked over to a chest of drawers, taking out clean underwear and a pair of running shorts and putting them on. “And you don’t have to apologise for anything, Saskia. You had a right to know what happened. I just didn’t realise that was the time. I wanted to go out for a run before we have to be back at the studio.”

“You’d rather go running in the cold and the wet rather than stay here in the warm here with me?” Saskia asked, as she sat up in bed, holding the bed sheet close to her, shivering slightly as her body adjusted to the cool air.

“You know how much I love running first thing in the morning, Saskia.” Urs replied, as he took a t-shirt out of the wardrobe. “And it’s stopped raining now.”

“Are you sure I can’t change your mind?” Saskia asked, as she let the bed sheet slip down to her waist.

Urs pulled the t-shirt over his head before turning to look at Saskia. She really was beautiful but he needed to be alone, he needed to think.

“If I stay here with you, you know what will happen.” Urs said, as he walked back to the bed, resting his hands on the edge of it and leaning down to Saskia.

“I know exactly what would happen.” Saskia said, as she grabbed hold of his t-shirt, pulling him closer so she could kiss him.

But Urs only gave her a quick kiss on the lips before pulling away again.

“Me too. I’d be late and you know what I’m like about time keeping.” Urs said, sitting down on the edge of the bed as he put his running shoes on.

Saskia laid back down on the bed and pulled the bed sheet back up over her.

“Will you be here when I get back or will you have already left for work?” Urs asked, glancing back at Saskia.

“I have a meeting first thing, so I’ll probably have left.” Saskia replied, rolling over on to her side, still watching Urs.

“Ok, well I’ll see you at the office later.” Urs said, getting up from the bed and bending down to kiss Saskia again. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” Saskia said, smiling up at Urs.

She watched Urs as he picked up a hair band, and ran his fingers through his hair before pulling it back in to a ponytail. Saskia sighed as she heard the front door close. Urs had been so attentive to her last night. She thought everything was still alright when she woke but then something happened and she wasn’t sure what. She didn’t want to start asking more questions and decided to leave it for now.

Urs leant against the wall inside the elevator and as the doors closed he let out a huge sigh. He had to get out of the apartment and be on his own, he had to clear his head and think about what had just happened to him.

Over the years; there had been little things that reminded Urs of Kristina, a woman wearing the same scent as her, someone who laughed like her, a New York accent. He had always been able to put it out of his mind but nothing had prepared him for what just happened. Saskia, the woman he loved had reminded him of Kristina. When Urs felt her soft lips on his palm and heard her whisper those words, I‘m sorry, it was Kristina that Urs saw and heard in his head, not Saskia. That’s why he had pulled his hand away from her. It was like a lightening bolt of emotion had shot through him. He didn’t just see or hear Kristina but he felt all the emotions from that moment at the airport when they said goodbye, it was if he’d gone back in time. He could still see the look in her eyes as she smiled at him. He remembered kissing her on the forehead telling her he loved her. He could feel her tears on his cheek as she held him and heard her whisper she was sorry. It was only for a split second but he even felt the love that he once had for her. It scared Urs; that he could remember how it felt to love Kristina, that something so small could set off feelings that he thought were gone forever. It also unnerved Urs; he was beginning to feel confused about his feelings for both women. He loved Saskia and could never hurt her but did he still love Kristina? Urs needed to talk to someone and there was only one person that he could turn to.

***** CHAPTER 60 *****

After Urs had got back from his run, he had quickly showered and got dressed. Saskia had already left for work so he had decided to make one quick call before leaving for the studio. He looked at his watch, it was almost 8am; he still had time.

Urs picked up the phone and dialled the number.

“Hello?”

“Marius, it’s Urs.”

“Hi Urs.” he said, sleepily. “What time is it?”

“It’s almost 8am.” Urs replied. “9am for you.” he added, suddenly remembering that Paris were an hour ahead.

“How did it go yesterday afternoon?” Marius asked. “What did he think of your singing?”

“You mean Simon? It went fine, he was really impressed.” Urs said, trying to sound enthusiastic. “We’ve still got a lot of work to do but then I think we’re flying to Sweden to start recording the album.”

“Sound’s like everything is going to plan then.” Marius replied.

Urs didn’t reply.

“Urs?”

“Marius, there’s something I haven’t told you.” Urs said, quietly.

“Oooooh, sounds serious.” Marius said, jokingly. “What big dark secret have you been keeping from me.”

“No it’s nothing like that.” Urs said, getting a little frustrated. “Will you just listen for a moment.”

“I’m sorry, Urs.” Marius replied. “Go on, tell me.”

Urs took a deep breath and started to tell Marius the events of the last two weeks, bumping into Kristina on his first day at BMG, her being employed as their publicist, the arguments with her and finding out that she was once in love with him.

“So what’s the problem?” Marius asked. “You love Saskia, don’t you?”

“Yes, I love Saskia.” Urs replied. “But I…”

“But what?” Marius asked.

“Nothing, it’s just I can’t seem to get away from her.” Urs mumbled.

“Just do your best to avoid her and you’ll be fine, no more arguments and a peaceful life for both of you.” Marius said, calmly.

“Things should be okay after last night.” Urs replied. “We called a truce.”

“Well, that’s a good thing isn’t it?” Marius asked.

“I guess so.” Urs replied. “But Simon gave her a new office in the same building as us. I’ll have to see her everyday.”

“She’s a publicist, Urs.” Marius replied.,“She’s got a job to do, she’s there to promote you. What makes you think she’s going to be spending all her time with you?”

“I didn’t mean it like that.” Urs snapped. “I just meant that I can’t seem to get away from her, everywhere I look she’s there; in the studio, the cafeteria, the garden, the corridor, the elevator. Remember when I told you the group all lives in the same apartment building? Well, her brother-in-law, Carlos, he‘s also in the group so she’s always visiting her sister and now she’s seeing David again. She’s everywhere and it’s driving me insane.”

“Urs you told me you didn’t love her anymore.” Marius said, warily. “So why are you letting her get to you so much?”

“I don’t know… I think… I think maybe I still… ” Urs started to say.

“Urs, I know what you’re thinking and I don’t want to hear you say it.” Marius said, firmly as he interrupted Urs. “You’re wrong, you love Saskia, not Kristina. Seeing her again, it‘s just brought back old feelings, old memories. Don’t ruin what you have with Saskia.”

“I’m sorry, Marius.” Urs said, shaking his head, “I shouldn’t have phoned you but I needed to talk to someone and you’re the only one who knows about Kristina.”

“Did you want me to come to London?” Marius asked.

“Why? What good will it do?” Urs replied.

“Urs, don‘t do anything silly, okay?” Marius said, sounding a little worried about his friend. “I’ll come to London and we can have a proper talk. We can’t sort this out over a phone call. I’ll book a ticket and fly out tomorrow.”

“Marius, there’s no need for you to do this, honestly.” Urs said, feeling bad about causing a fuss.

“I’m not going to argue with you, Urs.” Marius said sternly. “I’m going to come to London and we’ll sort this out once and for all.”

“What are you talking about?” Urs asked. “What are you going to do?”

“Urs, don’t worry.” Marius replied. “Trust me, this has gone on for long enough.”

The two friends said goodbye. While Urs made his way to the studio, he was starting to worry about what Marius had planned. Was he just coming to talk to him or did he have something else in mind?

*******************

Kristina was sitting in her new office, already hard at work. She had left David’s apartment not long after midnight and gone straight home to bed. She hadn’t been feeling too good over the last few days but since making up with Urs, Kristina found that she felt a lot better and had managed to get a good nights sleep. She was so involved in her work that she didn’t hear Angie knock on her door.

“Hey!”

Kristina jumped when she heard a voice and looked up. Standing right in front of her was a man of about 35, he was tall, tanned and he had jet black collar length hair swept back from his face and piercing blue eyes; next to him stood Angie.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to make you jump.” Angie said, quietly laughing, as she sat down opposite Kristina.

“That’s alright.” Kristina replied, smiling at Angie before glancing at the man still standing in front of her desk.

“Oh, I forgot.” Angie said, when she saw Kristina looking at him. “Tyler this is Kristina, Kristina meet Tyler.”

“Nice to meet you, Tyler.” Kristina said, standing up from her chair, holding her hand out to him.

“Likewise.” he replied, shaking her hand.

“You’re American?” Kristina asked, hearing his accent.

“Yep, New York.” Tyler said, smiling. “There’s no fooling you, is there!” he added.

Kristina blushed. She was surprised to actually find herself attracted to this man, she hadn’t looked at another man since Urs. Now she had made a silly comment and embarrassed herself.

“I’m sorry.” Tyler said, apologetically, noticing her face turn a light shade of pink. “That was uncalled for.”

“There’s no need to apologise.” Kristina replied, smiling nervously. “I just assumed you were British. Please, take a seat.”

Tyler sat down next to Angie.

“So, what can I do for you, Angie?” Kristina asked. “I wasn’t expecting to see you here.”

“I came to see how you were.” Angie replied. “I was expecting you to call me yesterday. I thought you were going to let me know what happened with you and Simon.”

“I’m sorry, Angie.” Kristina said, frowning. “I completely forgot about it, I was so busy yesterday.”

“I hope it didn’t involve tipping plates of food over people.” Tyler commented.

Kristina’s face turned a brighter shade of red and glared at Angie.

“What?” Angie said innocently. “I thought it was funny. Tyler was there when you told me over the phone and I just had to tell someone.”

“You didn’t think it was funny at the time.” Kristina said, smirking as she remembered the look on Urs’ face.

“Yeah, well I thought you’d just lost us a big account.” Angie replied. “But seeing as you’re still sitting here in your brand new office I’m guessing things went okay with Simon.”

“I meant to ask you about that.” Kristina said, leaning forward on her desk. “You knew about this weeks ago didn’t you. You had plenty of time to tell me about this account so why wait until the last minute.”

“I don’t know.” Angie shrugging her shoulders. “I just thought it would be a nice surprise, your first big account, working with four gorgeous men, if I’d known you and Urs had a history then I…”

Kristina shot Angie a warning look. If Tyler saw it he didn’t say anything.

“Simon is fine about everything.” Kristina said, quickly changing the subject. “And me and Urs have come to an understanding so it looks like everything will be fine now.”

“Are you sure?” Angie asked. “It’s just that yesterday you were adamant that you didn’t want this job. That’s why Tyler is here.”

“I don’t understand.” Kristina said, looking at Tyler and then back at Angie.

“My father owns Cavendish.” Tyler said, looking at Kristina. “I came here to make sure that everything was okay with Simon and if you weren’t happy with the job I was going to take over.”

“Oh.” Kristina said, biting her lip. “I didn’t realise I had caused so much trouble.”

“Don’t get me wrong.” Tyler said. “You haven’t caused any trouble and if you still want the job it’s yours. It’s just that I’m new to all of this. My father wants me to get to know the business and to be honest I haven’t really taken an interest in it until now.” he added, smiling at Kristina.

Kristina instantly knew what he was implying and couldn’t help blushing as she smiled politely at him.

“Perhaps I could work alongside you?” Tyler suggested. “See how the experts do it.”

“That’s a great idea.” Angie said, happily. “What do you say, Kristina?”

From first impressions, Tyler seemed like a nice guy but a bit stiff. Tyler had probably never wanted for much in his childhood; money was no object to his father. She was surprised Tyler was even working, it wasn‘t as if he needed the money. He seemed okay but Kristina wasn’t sure she wanted the boss’ son peering over her shoulder the whole time. Who’s to say Tyler wasn’t checking up on what she was doing and reporting back to his father?

“Sure, that’s fine with me.” Kristina replied, giving a weak smile.

“Okay, well if everything’s sorted out with you, Simon and Urs I guess there’s no need for us to be here.” Angie said, getting up from her seat.

“Would you mind if I stayed here, Angie?” Tyler asked, before looking at Kristina. “That’s if it’s okay with you. I thought that seeing as I’m already here I might as well make a start.”

“Of course I don’t mind.” Kristina replied. What else could she say?

“Great.” Tyler said, looking genuinely pleased. “I promise not to get in your way.”

“Guys, I really need to get going.” Angie said, walking towards the door. “I have a several meetings to prepare for and I’m…”

“Hello there.” said an American accent, as Angie walked straight in to someone.

She looked up and saw someone smiling down at her. Angie instantly recognised him from the photographs. It was David Miller.

“Angie, this is David.” Kristina said, walking over to David. “The cute one.” she added, grinning at Angie, who was speechless.

“Thanks Krissy,” David said, giving her a huge smile. “I always knew there was a reason I liked you.”

“Hey I’m not the one who thinks you’re cute.” Kristina said, looking at David. “She is. Isn’t that right?” Kristina added, turning to Angie. “Angie?”

Angie turned to Kristina. “Who’s cute?” she asked.

“David.” Kristina replied, nodding at David.

“Oh yes.” Angie said, smiling. “He’s cute, very cute.”

Angie turned bright red as she put her hand over her mouth.

David tried not to laugh but couldn’t help it.

“I’m glad you think so.” he said, quietly laughing. He wasn’t used to having this effect on women and found it a little odd but somehow amusing. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet the slave driver that Krissy’s told me so much about. Ouch! I mean her boss.” he added, still laughing as Kristina playfully slapped him on the arm.

“It’s good to finally meet you too.” Angie said, her face still flushed.

“Another American?” Tyler said, getting up from his chair. “This is beginning to feel more and more like home.” he joked.

“Oh David, let me introduce you to Tyler.” Kristina said, taking David’s arm and leading him to where Tyler was standing. “Tyler this is David Miller, he’s part of Il Divo, the group that I… I mean ‘we’ will be promoting.”

The two men shook hands and greeted each other.

“So you and Krissy will be working together?” David asked.

Tyler nodded.

“My father owns Cavendish and wants me to take more of an interest in the family business.” he replied. “I didn’t intend on working with Kristina when I came here this morning but I think she can teach me a lot.” he said, as he cast his gaze to Kristina.

Kristina smiled politely at Tyler and then glanced and David, quickly lowering her eyes when she saw him looking at her.

“I’m sorry to interrupt.” Angie said, finally finding her voice. “But I really do have to leave. I’ve got several meetings to prepare for. Are you sure you‘ll be alright here, Tyler?”

“Don’t worry about me.” Tyler replied. “I’m sure Kristina will take good care of me. Won‘t you!” he added, winking at her.

Kristina didn’t reply to Tyler’s comment but she could sense David watching her as she said goodbye to Angie.

“It was nice to meet you, Angie.” David said, shaking Angie’s hand. “Hopefully we’ll see each other again soon.”

“Yes, I hope so.” Angie replied, smiling at David.

“I guess I should be going too.” David said, as he moved away and stood in the doorway. “I just popped in here to see if you wanted to join me for lunch but I can see you’re busy.”

“It’s just work, David.” Kristina replied. “He’s here to learn more about his fathers business.”

“I’m not doubting that for a minute.” David said, glancing at Tyler who was now standing over the other side of the office, looking out the window. “But he seems to have taken a liking to you. Maybe you should think about dating again.”

“David, please don’t start that again.” Kristina said, frowning.

“Come on, Krissy.” David said, gently rubbing her shoulder. “You’re going to have start accepting the fact that you and Urs are never going to be a couple. You can’t spend you’re whole life waiting for something that will never happen.”

“You’ve sure changed your tune.” Kristina said, looking a little confused. “Last night you were all set for making Urs jealous.”

“That was last night.” David replied. “I’m not saying you have to jump in to bed with this guy but if he likes you just give him a chance. Okay?”

“I think you better go, David.” Kristina said, gently pushing him out the door. “Simon won’t be happy if he finds you here talking with me when you should be working on those songs.”

“You’re not angry with me are you?” David asked, warily. “I didn’t mean to interfere, I just want you to be happy.”

“No, I’m not angry with you, David.” Kristina replied. “I know you mean well but just let me do things in my own time. I don’t know if I’m ready to start dating again, I still can’t forget about Urs.”

“Maybe Tyler could help you forget.” David whispered, as he kissed Kristina on the cheek. “I’ll see you later. Nice meeting you, Tyler, I’ll see you around.”

“Yes, same here.” Tyler replied, walking towards Kristina.

David closed the door and left Kristina and Tyler alone.

“So, what’s first on the agenda for this morning?” Tyler asked, rubbing his hands together enthusiastically. “I can’t wait to get started.”

Kristina looked at Tyler. She had to admit he was attractive but even if he was interested in her, there was no way she would ever consider dating the boss’ son. Never mix business with pleasure, she reminded herself. She had already broken that rule with David and she wasn’t about to do it again. That was until Tyler smiled at her, but this time his piercing blue eyes and sharp features softened, transforming his whole face. He didn’t look like the hard nosed business man that had first walked in to her office, he actually looked human, not to mention very good looking. Maybe she would take David’s advice and consider breaking a rule for a second time.

***** CHAPTER 61 *****

The next few hours flew by, as Kristina showed Tyler her ideas for the campaign. He was constantly asking questions. At first it was annoying but Kristina realised she found it helpful when she answered his questions and explained her reasons behind it. Tyler had even made a few suggestions which surprised Kristina and she wondered why she hadn’t thought of them herself. In the end, she was actually enjoying Tyler’s company.

“Are you sure you don’t mind me being here?” Tyler asked, as he stepped aside to let Kristina pass. “Sometimes I feel as if I’m getting in your way.”

“Of course, I don’t mind you being here.” Kristina replied. “Besides, I can hardly say no to the boss’ son can I?” she added, giving him a sideways glance.

“In that case you can’t say no to me when I ask you to have lunch with me.” Tyler said, picking up some papers from Kristina’s desk.

“What if I have other plans?” Kristina asked.

“I’ll have to ask you again tomorrow.” Tyler replied, casually.

Kristina didn’t like the way Tyler assumed she would say yes to his offer of lunch, just because of who he was.

“I’ll have to check my dairy first.” Kristina said, as she took a file out of a drawer. “I have quite a busy schedule.”

“Well, I’ll just have to keep asking you until you say yes.” Tyler replied. “But it looks like you’re free for lunch all week.”

Kristina turned around and saw Tyler with her diary.

“I don’t put all my meetings in there.” Kristina replied, as she strode over to her desk and snatched the diary from him. “Especially if they’re not work related.”

“What if you forget?” Tyler said, as he sat down in her chair. “You need to be more organised, it doesn’t look good if you ever go for promotion.”

“I’ve never missed a meeting or a deadline and I‘ve never had any complaints about my work.” Kristina said, folding her arms across her chest, suddenly getting a little defensive. “But if you have any problems with the way I do things around here, perhaps you should tell Angie, or better still tell your father then you can take over the campaign completely.”

“Hey, I didn’t mean it like that.” Tyler said, frowning as he looked at Kristina. “I know I made some silly remarks earlier this morning but I didn’t say them with the sole purpose of embarrassing you. If I’m completely honest I was a little nervous about coming here, I have absolutely no idea what I’m doing. Maybe I should leave and let you get on with your work.” he added as he made a move to get up. “I did kind of force myself on you.”

Kristina stood in front of her desk, staring at Tyler. She wasn’t sure what to make of him, one moment he seemed confident and arrogant, the next he seemed like a small boy, innocent and insecure.

“There’s no need for you to leave.” Kristina replied, letting out a small sigh. “And I’m sorry for snapping at you. It’s just that this is my first big account and having the boss’ son peering over my shoulder the whole time doesn’t exactly inspire me with confidence.”

“I’m sorry, I should’ve realised.” Tyler replied, looking a little dejected as he unsuccessfully tried to pour himself a glass of water spilling some of it on of her papers. “Oh crap! This day just gets worse.”

“Here!” Kristina said, handing him some tissues as she helped him wipe the desk. “Don’t worry, it’s only water, it will soon dry.”

“I’m not exactly creating a good impression, am I?” Tyler said, sinking back in to Kristina’s chair, after drying the desk. “I’m really trying but it’s not working.”

“You don’t have to try and impress anyone, Tyler.” Kristina replied, putting the wet tissues in the waste bin. “Like you said earlier, you’re here to learn about your father’s business. Just stop trying so hard, no one expects you to know everything at once.”

“Thanks for being so understanding.” Tyler said, smiling.

“Do you think I could sit down?” Kristina asked, nodding at her chair.

Tyler looked at her for a second before suddenly realising he was sitting in her chair.

“I’m sorry, I’ve done it again haven’t I?” Tyler said, biting his lip as he stood up. “I’m so used to sitting on this side of the desk. Look it‘s almost 1 o‘clock, how about I buy you lunch? That‘s if you don‘t have other plans.”

Kristina shook her head.

“No, I don’t have any other plans.” she said, smiling.

“Brilliant. I know a great little place not far from here.” Tyler said, picking his jacket up from the back of the chair. “It’s called Le Strega and they make the best Tortellini Chicken. You do like Italian, don’t you?” he added quickly.

Kristina nodded.

“Yes, I like Italian.” she replied. “And lunch sounds great.”

“Are you sure you don’t need to check your diary first?” Tyler asked, trying to keep a straight face.

“Very funny.” Kristina said, smirking.

***** CHAPTER 62 *****

Kristina and Tyler had arrived at Le Strega and their meals had just been brought to them.

“You’re right.” Kristina said, before taking another mouthful of food. “This Tortellini Chicken is lovely.”

“You should come here after 6 o’clock.” Tyler replied. “They have an entirely different menu in the evenings and the food is unbelievable.”

Kristina smiled politely as she continued to eat her meal.

“Perhaps you would allow me to bring you here after work one evening and buy you dinner.” Tyler suggested, when Kristina didn’t respond.

“I don’t think that would be a good idea.” Kristina replied, giving another polite smile. “I make it a rule to keep work and my work social life separate.”

“That sounds like a wise decision.” Tyler said, nodding his head slowly. “But have you ever thought about breaking that rule?”

Kristina looked up from her meal, to see Tyler looking at her, his head tilted slightly to the side. Kristina shook her head.

“I did once.” Kristina replied. “Never again.”

It wasn’t that Kristina regretted ever breaking that rule for David. But it was what followed after it. If she hadn’t been with David, she would never have attended the Tony Awards and she would never have met Urs and be struggling with her feelings for him.

“Well, if you won’t let me bring you here for dinner, maybe you can have the man in your life bring you here one evening.” Tyler suggested.

“There is no man.” Kristina replied. “There hasn‘t been for quite awhile.” she added, shocked at herself for being so revealing about her personal life. “How about you?” Kristina said, quickly diverting the conversation away from her. “Married? A girlfriend?”

“Neither.” Tyler replied, as he topped up his glass.

“How come?” she asked. Kristina couldn’t understand why someone with his education and his good looks was still single.

“The easiest answer would be to say because I haven’t met the right woman yet, but that wouldn‘t be true.” Tyler said, before taking a sip of his drink. “I’ve met several delightful and eligible women.”

“So why are you still single?” Kristina asked. “No, don’t answer that. I’m sorry, that was a very personal question.” she quickly added.

“There’s no need to apologise.” Tyler replied. “And to answer your question, I don’t know. Most of the women I’ve been introduced to have been my father’s doing.”

“Your father chooses your girlfriends?” Kristina asked, unable to hide the look of surprise on her face.

“No, nothing like that.” Tyler said, laughing when he saw her expression. “He’s desperate for me to marry and settle down, he wants to make sure that the family business continues. He’s always trying to hurry things along. Don‘t get me wrong, I love my father and I‘ll do anything for him but when it comes to matters of the heart, I think I’m old enough and wise enough to find my own wife.”

Kristina continued to eat her meal; she was starting to feel sorry for Tyler, having his father trying to interfere with his personal life.

“So, what about you Kristina?” Tyler asked, pushing his plate away. “I know there is no one in your life at the moment but would you eventually like to marry… and have a family?”

“No.” she told him shortly.

There was only one man that Kristina wanted to marry and have children with. But Kristina couldn’t ever see that happening. “My career is the main focus of my life at the moment, that‘s more important to me.” she added.

“And what if that changed?” Tyler asked. “What if you met someone… and found that he was more important to you than your career?”

“That won’t happen.” she told him, with certainty in her voice, as she lifted her eyes to him.

“You sound very sure of that.” Tyler commented. “One never knows what’s around the corner. Tomorrow you could meet the man of your dreams. You might have already met him.”

Kristina started to play with her food, pushing it round her plate. Kristina had met the man of her dreams but he didn‘t feel the same way about her, not anymore. Kristina was sure she would never love anyone else the way she loved Urs.

“I’m sorry, did I say something wrong?” Tyler asked, sounding a little concerned.

Kristina forced a smile.

“Maybe we should be getting back to the office.” Kristina suggested. “I still have rather a lot of work to do.”

“Of course, I’m sorry.” Tyler said, gesturing to the waiter that they were ready to leave. “I’ve probably held you up with your work with a barrage of questions all morning. I must be getting on your nerves.”

“You haven’t, I assure you.” Kristina replied. “It’s just that I have a lot of ideas and some of them are going to take considerable planning.”

“Well in that case, I mustn’t hold you up any longer.” Tyler replied, after paying for their meals.

Kristina thanked Tyler for lunch and they made their way out of the restaurant.

*************
“Let’s take a break.” David suggested. “I’m hungry.”

“You’re always hungry.” Sebastien said, leaning on the piano. “But I could do with a break, I overslept this morning and didn’t get time for breakfast.”

“What time is it?” David asked, as he sat down in a chair.

“Why don’t you ask Urs?” Carlos snapped. “He’s been looking at his watch every five minutes.”

David, Sebastien and Urs looked at one another before looking at Carlos. Carlos had been acting strangely all morning, missing his cues and forgetting his lines. In the short time that they had known each other, they knew it was totally out of character for Carlos but no one had dared to say anything.

“It’s just gone two o’clock.” Urs said, looking at David. “I’m going to see Saskia.” Urs put down his guitar and left the room.

“I’m going to get something to eat.” David said, getting up from his seat. “You want me to get you guys anything?”

“No it’s okay, thanks.” Sebastien replied.

Sebastien waited for David to leave the room before sitting down next to Carlos.

“So, Carlos are you going to tell me what’s wrong?” Sebastien asked.

“No.” came the short reply from Carlos.

“I don’t mean to pry.” Sebastien said, warily. “But are you alright? You’ve not been your usual self this morning and the others have noticed it too. Are things okay between you and Abigail?”

“I’m fine. We’re fine.” Carlos said, sternly.

The two of them sat in silence for a few minutes before Sebastien spoke again.

“You know, if there’s anything worrying you, you can always talk to me or any of the others.” Sebastien said, placing a hand on Carlos’ shoulder.

Carlos didn’t answer.

“You’re not having second thoughts about the group are you?” Sebastien asked. “Are you having regrets about giving up your opera career?”

“No, no, it’s nothing like that.” Carlos replied, slowly shaking his head.

“So there is something bothering you.” Sebastien said, quietly. “Tell me what it is. I might be able to help.”

“It’s nothing, not really.” Carlos said, thoughtfully. “I’m probably worrying about nothing.”

“I won’t know until you tell me.” Sebastien said, leaning back in the couch. “It might help to talk about it.”

Carlos tried to gather his thoughts before telling Sebastien what was on his mind.

“Do you remember me telling you about Abigail’s boyfriend?” Carlos said eventually.

Sebastien nodded.

“You mean the one back in Paris, the one you helped her get away from?”

“Yes. Brian.” Carlos replied, as he stared straight ahead at the wall in front of him. “Abigail received a letter from Paris this morning.”

“From Brian?” Sebastien asked. “How did he know where she was?”

“No, no it wasn’t from Brian.” Carlos said, quickly. “There was a woman in Paris called Jeanette, Jeanette Lavelle. She helped me and Abigail get in to the house so we could get her belongings while Brian was gone. The letter was from Jeanette’s sister.”

“What did she want?” Sebastien asked.

“To let Abigail know that Jeanette died.” Carlos said quietly.

“How did she die?” Sebastien asked. “I know you said she elderly. A heart attack?”

“No. The letter said that she died from a head injury.” Carlos replied. “They think she interrupted a burglar… and there was a struggle.”

“So you’re upset about her death?” Sebastien asked. “Is that what’s been bothering you?”

Carlos shook his head, letting out a heavy sigh.

“I’m probably reading too much into it but… I can’t help wondering if Brian had something to do with her death.” Carlos said, looking away from Sebastien.

“You mean he killed her?” he asked, obviously shocked at Carlos’ revelation. “Why on earth would you think that?”

“I shouldn’t have said anything.” Carlos said, quickly getting up from his seat. “Just forget I ever mentioned it.”

“No, I won’t.” Sebastien said, getting up from his seat, following Carlos to the window. “You obviously think he’s capable of murder but what possible reason would he have for killing her?”

“I have no idea why he would want to kill her.” Carlos said rubbing his forehead. “But from what Abigail had told me about Brian, with his temper… if pushed far enough…”

“Have you told Abigail about this?” Sebastien asked, leaning against the wall.

Carlos shook his head.

“No and I don’t want you to say anything to her.” Carlos replied. “I don’t want her worrying about this.”

“So what are you going to do now?” Sebastien asked.

“About what?” Carlos said, looking a little confused.

“Brian.” Sebastien replied. “If you think he had something to do with Jeanette’s death you have to tell someone. You have to go the police.”

“And tell them what?” Carlos said, throwing his hands up in the air in frustration. “That I think he killed his neighbour just because he used to hit Abigail? I can’t tell them that, it sounds ridiculous. And I don’t want to drag Abigail in to this ”

“I have a friend in Paris who’s with the Police Nationale.” Sebastien said, hesitantly. “If you want me to… if you’re really worried, I could phone him and see if there’s anything to suggest that...”

“That it was intentional?” Carlos asked. “Could you do that? Could you find out?”

“Well, I can try.” Sebastien replied. “But I can’t promise anything. He might not be able to tell me anything.”

“But if you could try.” Carlos said, a faint smile appearing on his face. “It would put my mind at rest.”

“Sure.” Sebastien replied. “I’ll give him a call later on.”

***** CHAPTER 63 *****

As Kristina and Tyler stepped out of the elevator and made their way back to her office, Urs appeared at the end of the corridor. Kristina felt her heart race as soon as she saw him. She wondered how long it would be before he stopped having this effect on her and if she would ever stop loving him. Kristina only hoped that in time she would get over him, the way he had gotten over her.

Kristina smiled, acknowledging David and Urs as she opened the door to the office before following Tyler inside.

“Who’s that with Kristina?” Urs said, looking at David.

“His name’s Tyler.” David replied. “Tyler Cavendish. Do you know him?”

“No, I’ve never seen him before. I wondered who he was, that’s all.” Urs said, as he watched Kristina disappear inside the office.

“His father owns the company that Krissy works for.” David replied.

“Oh…so what’s he doing here?” Urs asked casually. “Is he checking up on Kristina?”

“No, nothing like that.” David said, he opened the door in to the studio. “He’s working with Kristina on our promotional campaign.”

“He’s working with her?” Urs said, trying to hide his surprise. “So that means they‘ll be spending a lot of time together?”

“I guess so.” David said, shrugging his shoulders. “Krissy’s always worked long hours on her campaigns, so I don’t see why this one should be any different.”

“And that doesn’t bother you?” Urs asked. “The two of them being together so much?”

“Why should it?” David asked. “What are you getting at?”

“Nothing, I just thought that…”

David was tempted to let Urs carry on believing that he and Kristina were a couple again but then he remembered what Kristina had said to him.

“Hey Kristina’s a free agent.” David said, trying to keep a straight face. “If her and Tyler hit it off, then good for her. She deserves to be happy after all she’s been through.”

“After all she’s been through?” Urs asked.

David wasn’t sure how to answer Urs. He knew that Kristina had told Urs about being ill but wasn’t sure if she had told him about losing her business and suffering from depression.

“She’s had a few things to deal with over the last few years.” David replied. “It’s personal so I hope you’ll understand if I don’t go in to details.”

“No, that’s fine.” Urs said as he sat down. “I understand.”

While David went over to join Sebastien and Carlos, Urs sat thinking about Kristina. He could only assume that David was talking about Kristina’s illness but there was something in the back of his mind, telling him that there was more to it, that something else had happened. Urs felt somewhat relieved though when he realised that David and Kristina weren’t back together but she why had she let him think she was seeing David?

*************

“I thought you were supposed to be working.” Tyler said, as he sat down opposite Kristina.

“I am.” Kristina replied, turning the page of a magazine. “It’s called research.”

“Can I ask what exactly you’re doing?” he asked, picking up one of the magazines from Kristina’s desk.

“As soon as we have an album to promote we’re going to be asking people to write a review on it. I’m just reading through some reviews to try and get some names of who to send it to.”

“Why would you do that?” he asked. “Why can’t you just send it to anyone at the magazine?”

“This is a whole new genre of music.” Kristina replied, putting the magazine down. “Not everyone is going to like this kind of music. We need to find positive and negative reviews of albums that are similar to what we’re promoting. There’s no point in asking someone to do a review when you know they’re not going to give you a good write up.”

“Now I know why you’re doing this job and I’m not.” Tyler said, laughing. “I think I still have a lot to learn. I guess it‘s pretty obvious when you think about it.”

“There’s some things you don’t get taught about this job.” Kristina replied. “Sometimes it’s just a matter of using your head, using your common sense.”

“So how are the ideas coming along?” Tyler asked, getting up from his chair. “Have you made any progress? Can I see them again?”

“Well, there’s not much at the moment.” Kristina replied, standing up and walking over to one of the larger desks. “Remember this is only my second day.”

“I know but you seem to be pretty organised.” Tyler said, as he followed Kristina. “And from what I’ve heard of your telephone conversations earlier on, you could sell ice to Eskimos.”

“It’s nice to know you have confidence in my work.” Kristina replied, casually as she laid papers out on the desk. “Well this is it, not much has changed since this morning. I don’t know why you want to see them again.”

“It helps to go over things again.” Tyler replied, as he started looking through all the papers on the desk. “Besides, it was a lot to take in this morning.”

Kristina picked up a letter on the desk. She was trying to concentrate on the letter in her hand and ignore the fact that Tyler was unusually close to her.

“Has anyone ever mentioned that you have a beautiful smile?” Tyler said, turning to look at Kristina. “You should smile more often.”

“I don’t have a lot to smile about.” Kristina replied.

“Maybe we should do something about that?” Tyler said, calmly.

Kristina moved away from him slightly, unsure what he meant.

“Don’t worry, Kristina.” Tyler said, when he noticed her move away. “I’m not in the habit of making passes at beautiful women without an invitation.”

“You think I’m beautiful?” Kristina said, quietly.

“You sound surprised.” Tyler said, leaning on the desk. “Has no one ever told you that?”

“Of course they have.” Kristina replied, starting to get a little flustered. “I... I just wasn’t expecting to hear you say it.”

“I’m honest, I speak my mind.” Tyler replied, looking back at Kristina. “There’s too many people in this world that are afraid to speak their mind, voice their opinions, show their emotions. When you get to know me better, you’ll get used to my unusual ways.” he added, grinning at her. “I’m not your average man.”

Kristina had listened to Tyler and couldn’t help relating every thing he had said to the situation between her and Urs. If she had been honest with her feelings and told Urs the truth, who knows what her life would be like today.

“Spend the day with me tomorrow.”

“What?” Kristina said, unable to hide the surprise on her face. “But why? It'’s Saturday.”

“I know.” Tyler replied. “I want to get to know you a little better. You don’t work weekends, do you?”

Kristina frowned and bit her lip. She did work weekends. She found her apartment too quiet for her liking, a harsh reminder that she was still on her own.

“You do?” Tyler said, raising his eyebrows. “No wonder you have nothing to smile about. You need to get out, get a life.”

“My work is my life.” Kristina said, getting a little annoyed with Tyler.

“I know your career is important to you, Kristina.” Tyler replied. “But if you carry on like that, you’re going to work yourself in to an early grave!”

“We should get back to work.” Kristina said, as she started to gather the papers up. “We can’t stand here talking all day.”

“So I’ll pick you up at 11 o’clock tomorrow morning.” Tyler said, as he helped Kristina pick up the papers. “If at the end of the day I haven’t managed to make you smile at least once, I won’t ask you out again.”

Kristina managed to stop her self laughing out loud but was unable to hide the smile on her face. She was both shocked and intrigued by Tyler’s bold approach to everything and found it refreshing.

“Okay, you’ve got yourself a deal.” Kristina replied, as she took the papers from Tyler. “But now work… I still need to get confirmation but there’s a couple of big charity events coming up at Christmas.” Kristina said, handing him a piece of paper. “Hopefully the guys can have a place in the shows.

“What’s this? “Tyler asked, picking up another folder.

“That’s the press pack.” Kristina replied. “Didn‘t I show it to you this morning?”

Tyler shook his head as he looked through the folder.

“It’s pretty standard stuff; the usual info, a bio on the group and then a piece on their solo backgrounds.” Kristina said, as she picked up another folder. “That reminds me, I need to get some more photo sessions arranged for sometime soon. These are the only photos we have at the moment.” Kristina added, as she handed the black and white photos to Tyler, pausing briefly when she saw Urs’ picture. “We can use them for promo work and for the CD cover.”

“So who’s who?” Tyler said, taking the photos from Kristina. “I know that’s David.” he added, placing David’s picture on the table.

As Tyler held up the photo’s, Kristina told him their names, looking away as he held up Urs’ picture.

“So this is the famous Urs.” Tyler said. “Has he recovered yet?”

“Recovered?” Kristina asked, confused by the question. “Recovered from what?”

“Yesterday’s… let me see, what did Angie call it… little incident.” Tyler said, quietly laughing.

“Yes, he’s recovered.” Kristina replied, as she walked back to her desk. “If you don’t mind I need to make some phone calls. Simon wants the guys to go to Sweden after Christmas to record the album, so I need to get dates and try and plan interviews whilst they’re over there.”

“Do you need any help?” Tyler asked.

“To be honest, I don’t think there’s much you can do at the moment.” Kristina said, smiling at him.

“In that case I might pop in and see Simon.” Tyler said, as he picked up his jacket. “Good PR and all that, keep the old man happy.” he added, winking at her. “I’ll pop back later. While I'm gone you can practice on that smile for me.”

Kristina was about to smile but ended up sticking her tongue out at Tyler.

"Very grown up." Tyler said, laughing. "But I can promise you, you will be smiling tomorrow and you will be going out with me again."

Kristina watched as Tyler left the room, before collapsing in to her chair grinning to herself. She didn't know what had possessed her to do such a childish thing but she actually felt good about herself. She hadn’t felt this way in a long time. Kristina was about to pick up the phone when there was a knock at her door.

“Come in.”

Kristina looked towards the door and David appeared.

“Is it alright if I come in?” he asked.

“Sure.” she replied. “But shouldn’t you be working?”

“We’ve got a five minute break.” David said, closing the door behind him. “I hope you don’t mind but I saw Tyler leave and I needed to ask you something.”

“Okay, what’s up?” Kristina said, leaning back in her chair.

“I was wondering… do you know if… do you know if Angie is seeing anyone?” David asked, casually, as he sat down.

“She might be.” Kristina said, trying to keep a straight face. “Why did you want to know?”

“Come on, Kristina.” David said, frowning. “You know why I’m asking.”

“You like her?” Kristina asked. “You want to ask my boss out?”

“I thought Tyler was your boss.” David said, grinning. “I see you broke another rule, going out for lunch with him.”

“Okay enough.” Kristina said, seriously. “It was work, nothing else. Got it? And no, Angie isn‘t seeing anyone.”

“Great!” David said, getting up from his seat. “So you won’t mind if I ask her out for dinner.”

“Like I have a choice.” Kristina said, as David walked out of the room.

Kristina was happy that David was taking in an interest in someone else, it made things easier for her. She was trying to convince herself that her interest in Tyler was purely professional but she was all too aware that there was more to it than that.

***** CHAPTER 64 *****

It had gone 7 o’clock and the majority of people had already gone home for the weekend but Kristina had decided to stay a little longer. If she was going to be spending tomorrow with Tyler then she wanted to try and get as much as work done as possible before Monday.

“You still here?”

Kristina looked towards the door to see David standing there.

“Don’t worry, I’m leaving in a few minutes.” she replied, as she leant back in her chair and stretched. “Anyway, what are you doing here this late?”

“We were actually starting to get somewhere with the songs.” David said giving a huge smile, as he sat down opposite Kristina. “So we thought we’d keep going for a little while longer. It paid off, we managed to finish another song and we’re all happy with it.”

“I’m glad you’re finally getting somewhere with things at last!” Kristina said, happy to see David so pleased.

“Yeah, finally being the right word.” David replied. “We were beginning to think that we weren’t ever going to figure out how to share the verses and who should sing what. But enough about work. I came here to ask for Angie’s phone number.”

“I wondered when you would come and ask me for that.” Kristina said, taking her mobile out of her bag.

“So, are you going to give me her number then?” David asked, impatiently.

“Okay, okay hang on.” Kristina said, giggling. “Someone’s keen!”

Kristina wrote down Angie’s mobile number and handed it to David.

“So when do I get to hear this new song?” Kristina asked. “What’s it called?”

“It’s called Mama.” David replied. “You’ll have to come to the studio on Monday and have a listen to it. It’s a lovely song, kind of reminds me of home and how much I miss my family.”

“I know what you mean.” Kristina said, sighing. “I miss mom and dad.”

“At least you’ve got Abigail though.” David replied. “You can see her everyday! That’s some consolation.”

“You’re right.” Kristina said, slowly nodding. “But I don’t want to keep pestering her and Carlos. I feel like I’m getting in their way sometimes. As much as I love my sister, if I was married I don‘t think I would want her hanging around all the time.”

“You’ll have to find a husband of your own.” David said, grinning. “Then you won’t feel that way.”

“And what do you mean by that?” Kristina asked, looking at David.

“Okay, I don’t mean go out and intentionally look for a husband.” David replied. “But you’re going to have to face it, you and Urs couldn’t stop arguing but now you seemed to have called a truce. Why don’t you just accept that things aren’t going to get any better than that? Forget about him, move on.”

“I can’t forget him, David.” Kristina replied, frowning. “It‘s been over four years since we last saw each other and I thought about him everyday. If it were that easy to forget him, don‘t you think I would be over him by now?”

“Aren’t you forgetting someone?” David said, smirking.

Kristina shook her head in confusion.

“I don’t know what you mean. Who are you talking about?”

“Tyler.” David replied. “He seems to like you, if you want to move on, maybe he can help you forget about Urs.”

“On first impressions, Tyler seems like a lovely guy but I’m not even sure I want to forget about Urs.” Kristina said, quietly. “I’ve tried and tried but it’s just impossible. He’s the first thing I think about when I wake up. I then spend all day working in the room next to him and all I can think about is how close he is. He’s the last thing on my mind at night. The only way I stand any chance of forgetting about him is quitting this job and going somewhere else.”

“I hope you’re joking, Krissy.” David replied, looking stunned. “Running away isn’t the answer. If you don’t think you can forget him, then you have to sort things out with him.”

“I don’t think I could, David.” Kristina said, shaking her head. “We’ve only just called a truce; I don’t want to start causing problems again.”

“Krissy you need to make your mind up.” David said, firmly. “Do you love him?”

Kristina closed her eyes and let out a heavy sigh.

“Of course I love him, David. I can‘t see myself loving any one else but him.”

“Right, come on then.” David said, getting up from his chair.

“David what are you doing?” Kristina exclaimed, as he grabbed her by the wrist and headed towards the door.

“If you go now, you might be able to catch him before he leaves. Just walk right up to him and tell him how you feel. Tell him you love him.”

“NO!” Kristina screamed, her eyes wide open with fear, as she tried to loosen David‘s grip no her wrist. “I can’t! Please David, I can’t… I… you don’t understand.”

“What don’t I understand, Krissy?” David said, stopping at the door and letting go of Kristina’s wrist. “You just told me you love him. It doesn’t get much simpler than that.”

“What happens if I tell him I love him? What happens afterwards?” Kristina replied, her voice trembling. “He says 'Sorry but I don’t love you’. Then I have to come back to work on Monday, knowing that he doesn’t love me anymore. I can’t deal with that, David.”

“You’ve got to face reality, that might be a possibility, Krissy.” David said, softly. “But isn’t it better to know, one way or the other? You can’t live your life hoping and praying that one day he’s just going to walk up to you and declare his undying love for you because it‘s not going to happen. He‘s already opened his heart to you and you sent him away. Do you seriously think he‘s going to do that a second time?”

Kristina slowly shook her head as she looked down at the floor. She knew David was right. Urs had already told her how he felt about her, he was hardly going to tell her again just for her to tell him she didn’t love him. But she did love him, she had always loved him, he just never knew.

“If you want Urs, you‘re going to have to make the next move.” David said, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Are you going to go and tell him?”

Kristina nodded.

“Yes, I’ll tell him.” she said, faintly.

“Now?”

Kristina nodded again.

“Do you want me to come with you?” David asked.

“No, if you don’t mind, I’d rather do this on my own.” Kristina replied, smiling weakly at David.

“I understand.” David replied. “Well, I’d better get going, I’ve got a phone call to make. Thanks again for Angie’s number.”

“You’re welcome.” Kristina replied. “I hope she says yes.”

“Me too! I‘ll give you a call later and see how things went with Urs.” David said, as he opened the office door. “Good luck!” he added, winking at her before leaving the office and closing the door behind him.

Kristina took one last deep breath before walking across the hall and in to the studio. She opened the door and came face to face with Urs.

***** CHAPTER 65 *****

“Krissy! I didn’t know you were still here.”

“You know what I‘m like.” Kristina said, shrugging her shoulders. “I’m a workaholic.”

“Well, I was just leaving.” Urs replied. “And if you were looking for David, you’ve missed him.”

“No, it wasn’t David I was looking for.” Kristina replied, nervously. “Actually it was you.”

“Me?” Urs said, looking a little surprised. “I thought I’d be the last person you would come looking for.”

Kristina didn‘t know what to say. She stood there and smiled weakly at Urs.

“What did you need to see me about?” Urs asked. “Is it about work?”

“No, it’s… it’s about you and me.” Kristina replied. “There’s something I need to tell you.”

“It sounds important.” Urs said, jokingly.

“It is.” Kristina replied. “But if you have to be somewhere…”

“No, come on.” Urs said, stepping aside to let Kristina through the doorway. “We can talk in here, everyone else has left for the weekend.”

Kristina entered the studio; Urs closed the doors and gestured for her to sit down. She walked over to the seating area but all the sofas and chairs were covered with a guitar, magazines, music sheets, newspapers and a couple of jackets.

“Sorry about the mess.” Urs said, as he hurriedly cleared a space on one of the sofas. “I think we should ask Simon about hiring a maid. The place can get a bit untidy with four men spending so much time in here. But I can assure you, I’m not the messy one, it‘s the others.”

“I believe you.” Kristina replied, quietly laughing. “Don’t forget, I’ve seen your home in Paris and it was immaculate.”

Urs turned to look at Kristina, his smile slowly disappeared.

“Yes, you have, haven’t you.” Urs said, quietly.

Kristina could’ve kicked herself. It seemed like an innocent comment to make at the time but now it seemed like the worst possible thing she could’ve said. Both were thinking back to the night Kristina stayed with Urs in Paris.

“Well, you’ve found me!” Urs said, smiling as he sat down on the sofa, patting the seat next to him, gesturing for Kristina to sit beside him. “What did you want to talk about?”

Kristina sat down next to him. She felt sick, she was so nervous. How had she managed to let David convince her in to telling Urs she loved him? She hadn’t even taken that much convincing, she knew deep down inside that it was the most sensible thing to do but that still didn’t make it any easier for her. But Urs had been honest and open with her, so the least she could do was be open and honest with him. But would he give her the same response as she had given him? Kristina gave a slight shudder at the thought of Urs saying those four words; I don’t love you.

“Are you alright?” Urs asked, looking concerned when he noticed her shudder. “You’re not coming down with a fever are you?” he added, putting his hand up to her forehead.

“No, I’m fine.” Kristina said, weakly. “Someone walked over my grave, that’s all.”

Urs lowered his hand and sat looking at Kristina, waiting for her to speak.

“Urs, I… I wanted to tell you that… that I…”

Kristina was desperately trying to put a sentence together. Her mind was buzzing with so many thoughts and sitting next to Urs, being this close to him she couldn‘t concentrate.

“You shouldn‘t bite your lip,” Urs said, as he put his hand up to Kristina’s face. “You’ll make that worse.” he added, as he gently ran his thumb over the mark on her lip, where she had bitten it earlier on.

“It’s a bad habit of mine.” Kristina said, blushing slightly. “I’ve done it ever since I was a child.”

“I imagine you were a beautiful child.” Urs said, smiling at her.

Kristina looked at Urs, she was now blushing profusely. Kristina knew it was a genuine smile, she could tell by the way his eyes sparkled and the dimples appeared at the corners of his mouth.

“I’m sorry.” Urs said, shaking his head. “You came here to tell me something and I keep interrupting you. What did you want to tell me?”

“I wanted to tell you that… that I… that I lied to you.” she said quickly, as she lowered her eyes to the floor.

“You lied?” Urs said, looking confused. “About what? I don‘t understand.”

“I lied to you… at the hospital.” Kristina replied faintly. “When I said… when I said…”

“When you said you didn’t love me?” Urs continued.

Kristina nodded.

“I know.” Urs said softly.

“You do?” Kristina said, sounding surprised as she looked up at him.

“I guess I’ve always known.” Urs said, placing a hand on her knee. “Why else would you make a promise to God to never see me again, if you didn’t love me? I only knew for certain that you once loved me the other day. I came to see you but you were with David and I overheard you and him talking.”

“You heard us?” Kristina said, shocked at knowing Urs had heard their conversation. “So you know that… that I…”

“I know that you lied at the hospital and I understand why you did it.” Urs continued. “And that you once loved me and I also heard you tell David that you don’t love me anymore.” he added.

“But you don’t understand Urs.” Kristina interrupted. “You didn‘t hear all of the conversation. I said I didn‘t love you but then…”

“It’s okay Krissy.” Urs said, taking her hand. “I do understand. I’m with Saskia and from what I’ve seen and heard, I think Tyler has an interest in you. We’ve both got on with our lives. I‘m just glad that we‘ve finally called a truce and we can be friends.”

“Friends?” Kristina said, weakly, desperately trying to hold back the tears. There was no point in continuing with the conversation. Urs had told her all she needed to know. He was happy with Saskia and he was basically giving her his blessing to date Tyler. He didn’t love her anymore. Kristina could feel the tears starting to break through.

“Krissy, what’s wrong?” Urs asked, frowning when he saw her watery eyes.

“Nothing’s wrong.” Kristina replied, her voice breaking as she fought back the tears. “Maybe you’re right. Maybe… maybe I’m coming down with something.”

“Hey you’re crying.” Urs said worriedly. “Coming down with a fever doesn’t make you cry. Something's wrong.”

“I’m sorry, this was a bad idea.” Kristina said, quickly getting up from her seat and heading for the door. “I shouldn’t have come.”

“No, wait!” Urs said, getting up from his seat and rushing to the door and placing his hand on it, stopping her from leaving. “Please don’t go. You didn’t come here just to tell me that you lied. There’s more to it. What was a bad idea? I want to know the real reason you came here.”

Kristina looked at his hand on the door. She loved everything about this man, everything, right down to the smallest detail; his perfectly manicured nails, his slender fingers, the light dusting of dark hair on the back of his arms. She loved this man so much and it was eating her up inside not being able to tell him, not being with him, not touching him, not holding him, not laying beside him at night.

“Krissy, please… tell me.” Urs said quietly, lowering his hand from the door and placing it on her shoulder.

Kristina slowly turned around and looked up at Urs.

“You didn't hear all of the conversation that I had with David. Urs, I... I still…”

The door suddenly opened with such a force that it knocked Kristina straight in to Urs’ arms.

“Oh God I’m sorry.” Saskia said quickly. “I wasn’t expecting anyone to be standing behind the door. Are you okay?"

“I… I’m fine.” Kriistina said, a little flustered at being held so close to Urs that she could feel his breath on her cheek. “I was just leaving.”

“There you are!” came another voice.

Kristina looked past Saskia to see Tyler standing behind her.

“I’ve been looking for you everywhere! I suddenly realised that I don’t know where you live.” Tyler said, as Saskia stepped aside. “How am I supposed to take you out on a date? Not a very good start is it?” Tyler said jokingly.

Kristina glanced at Urs. She was certain she saw a faint look of disappointment on his face but assumed she was reading too much into it. Maybe he wasn’t happy being that close to her. She gently pulled away from him.

“Are you ready to leave, Urs?” Saskia asked.

“Yes… yes I’m ready.” Urs replied, as he went back to the sofa and picked up his jacket.

“How about you, Kristina?” Tyler asked. “Are you leaving now? Perhaps I can give you a lift home, then atleast I’ll know where to go tomorrow when I pick you up.”

Kristina nodded.

“Yes, I’m leaving now.” she replied. “Goodnight Urs.”

“Goodnight Krissy.” he replied.

Kristina turned and left the studio, and Urs watched as Tyler placed his hand on the small of her back, guiding her down the hall. Urs couldn’t help wondering what Kristina would’ve said, had they not been interrupted. Perhaps he would ask her on Monday.

***** CHAPTER 66 *****

Kristina and Tyler had arranged to meet at 11 o’clock the following morning. When Kristina asked where they were going, Tyler had refused to tell her. He wanted to keep it a surprise and Kristina didn’t have the energy or the inclination to tell him she hated surprises. Besides, Kristina had more important things to think about rather than worry where Tyler was going to take her tomorrow.

Kristina was sure that Tyler had noticed something was wrong but he hadn’t said anything to her, he merely made polite conversation and made the odd joke. He didn’t even try to invite himself in, he made sure she got to her door safely and then said goodnight.

That was over two hours ago and since then she had been sitting on the edge of her bed in complete darkness, staring out the window. She was angry with herself for being so stupid and for even thinking that she and Urs could ever work things out after so long. What was she thinking of? Did she really expect Urs to still love her? Kristina couldn’t believe she had come so close to telling Urs that she loved him. If it hadn’t been for Tyler and Saskia showing up when they did, everything would now be a mess.

Urs would have told her he didn’t love her and Kristina would have had to go back to work and pretend that everything was okay. She’d had a lucky escape thanks to Saskia. If it wasn’t for her, Kristina would’ve had made a fool of herself. Kristina could never tell Urs she loved him, not now, not ever. Kristina would just have to put on a brave face and gather all her courage to carry on as normal. She had a job to do and she couldn’t let her feelings for Urs interfere with that.

Kristina was tired but she knew it was too early to go to bed and she knew for sure that she wouldn’t be able to sleep. She went and sat down on the sofa and picked up a pen and paper. Abigail had always been the one with the perfect singing voice but Kristina had always been the creative one. When she was younger she would often write songs for her sister to sing. Kristina had thought about going in to the song writing business but her parents had suggested she followed a career that had a guaranteed income. Kristina still wrote the occasional song but with her career being so time consuming, she didn’t find the time. These days the only time she found she could write songs was when something significant was happening in her life and she needed to get her thoughts down on paper. Today was one of those days.

It was late in to the night before Kristina had finished writing the song. She felt better for getting her feelings down on paper. But it didn’t take away any of the pain or heartache she felt. Kristina sat and read the lyrics, they explained everything perfectly and she thought it was one of her best songs. It was strange and some how cruel, that such events in her life bought out the best of her song writing abilities. Kristina looked at her watch and decided to try and get some sleep. Kristina got up from the sofa and putting the music sheets down on the coffee table, she made her way to bed.

*******************

Urs was sitting in the arrivals lounge, at Heathrow airport, waiting for Marius to arrive. Marius had called Urs the previous night, to let him know what flight he was on and Urs had arranged to come and collect him. Urs had told Saskia that night, that Marius would be arriving and that he would be going to collect him. For some reason Marius had turned down Urs’ offer to stay with him and Saskia, saying that he would prefer to stay at a hotel. Urs didn’t ask why.

Urs looked at his watch, 10.45am, the plane should’ve landed by now. Urs got up and walked over to the gate when he noticed people start to pass through. After a few minutes Urs saw Marius but he wasn’t on his own. He was with an elderly lady who seemed to be hanging on to his arm and refused to let go. Urs stood back and watched as Marius politely smiled at the old woman and eventually managed to release her hold on him.

“New girlfriend?” Urs said, jokingly as he gave Marius a friendly slap on the back.

“Very funny!” Marius replied. “A piece of advice, when a sweet little old lady asks you to help her with her luggage, pretend you can’t hear her. She might look weak and defenceless but she sure had a tight grip on my arm and wouldn’t let go.”

Urs chuckled to himself, as he thought about the old lady hanging on to Marius’ arm.

“I’m glad you think it’s so funny.” Marius said, rubbing his arm.

“Oh come on, you’ve got to admit it is funny.” Urs said, still laughing. “At least you know you can still get yourself a date, no matter what their age.”

“How about you?” Marius asked, as they exited the airport and made their way across the car park. “How’s your love life? How‘s Saskia?”

“Just fine.” Urs said, his voice changing to a more serious note. “And Saskia’s fine too.”

“And Kristina?” Marius asked. “You seemed a bit distant on the phone last night. Has something else happened?”

Urs unlocked the boot of the car and took the suitcase from Marius.

“Krissy came to see me last night.” Urs replied, as he put the suitcase in the boot.

“She came to see you at your apartment?” Marius asked, a little surprised. “With Saskia there? What did she want?”

“No, it was after work, we were still at the office.” Urs replied, as he made his way round to the drivers door. “She said she had something important to tell me.”

Urs opened the drivers door and got in to the car.

“Well, what did she say?” Marius asked, as he got in to the car and sat down in the passenger seat. “I’m guessing it wasn’t about work.”

Urs shook his head.

“She wanted to tell me that she lied at the hospital.” Urs replied. “She wanted me to know that she did love me.”

“Why would she tell you something like that after all these years?” Marius asked. “Is she trying to stir things up between you and Saskia?”

“Why would you think that?” Urs asked. “Krissy hasn’t done anything to cause trouble.”

“No of course not.” Marius said, throwing his hands up in the air. “She just conveniently gets a job working as your publicist, she throws food over you and you then have to explain it all to Saskia. You say you can’t get away from her, she’s everywhere, maybe she’s following you. Now she’s asking to see you after work, it sounds to me like she’s up to something.”

“I think you’re being a bit hard on her, Marius.” Urs replied, as he started up the car. “None of those things were planned, they just happened. Firstly, Kristina can’t help who she works for, secondly, I caused all the arguments.”

“And thirdly?” Marius said, raising his eyebrows. “She didn’t have to tell you that she lied. What’s the point in telling you that? It just doesn’t make sense.”

“I don’t know.” Urs replied. “Maybe she felt it was time to be honest with each other now that we’ve sorted out our differences. But I did get the feeling there was something she wasn‘t telling me.”

“Like what?” Marius asked. “What else did she say?”

Urs shrugged his shoulders.

“She didn’t get the chance to say much else.” Urs replied. “Saskia and Tyler showed up.”

“Who’s Tyler?” Marius asked.

“Tyler is the guy Kristina’s working with on the campaign.” Urs replied. “His father owns the company that Simon hired. He owns several businesses all over the world.”

“Oh, a rich boy is he?” Marius said, with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.

“He looks like an okay guy.” Urs said. “Krissy seems to like him.”

“Jealous?” Marius asked, cautiously.

“Jealous of Tyler? No way!” Urs said, unconvincingly. “They’re just friends, they work together, that’s all.”

“And what happens if they become more than that?” Marius asked. “That wouldn’t bother you?”

“No… yes… well maybe a little, I mean…” Urs mumbled. “I was in love with her for years…”

“I know what you said on the phone, how you thought you might still be in love with her.” Marius said. “But how do you feel about her now, at this very moment?”

“I don’t know. I’m confused.” Urs replied. “I thought I was over her, but after what she told me last night, I can’t help thinking that perhaps there’s still something there between us. Maybe I should talk to her on Monday.”

“But what about Saskia? What happens if Kristina says she still loves you?” Marius added. “Where does that leave Saskia? She loves you too.”

“Let’s not talk about this right now?” Urs said, as he checked his mirror and pulled away from the kerb. “What hotel are you staying at?”

Marius told Urs what hotel he was staying in. On the journey to the hotel, he thought about what Urs had said. It wasn’t that Marius didn’t like Kristina, she seemed like a very pleasant woman but he didn’t like what she was doing to his friend. He remembered how tough things had been for Urs when Aimee died and it took him a long time to start living a normal life; and then he met Kristina. When Kristina rejected Urs, he had gone back to how things were when he lost Aimee, unhappy, moody, irritable, he wouldn’t see anyone, he literally became a recluse again, only leaving his apartment to go to work. Now Kristina was back and once again she was disrupting his life. Well, Marius wasn’t about to let it happen again. He had to talk to Kristina before Urs did.

***** CHAPTER 67 *****

“Kensington?” Kristina said, as Tyler paid for their train tickets. “What are we going there for?”

“You’ll soon see.” Tyler replied. “Have some patience will you!”

“Aren’t you going to give me any idea of where we’re going?” Kristina asked, as her and Tyler stepped on to the tube train.

“Absolutely not.” Tyler replied. “I told you it was going to be a surprise. What sort of a surprise would it be if I told you where we were going?”

“Well, if you’re going to take me out again there’s something you should know.” Kristina said, as she sat down. “I hate surprises.”

“So does that mean you’ll let me take you out again?” Tyler said, as he sat down next to her.

“You have to make me smile first.” she replied. “That’s the deal.”

“That’s easy.” Tyler said, grinning to himself. “I promise by the end of the day I’ll have you smiling.”

Kristina wasn’t so sure. She hadn’t slept well that night; she couldn’t stop thinking about Urs. She felt tired and wasn’t in the mood for seeing anyone and making small talk. She had come close to cancelling her date with Tyler but in the end she had decided it was better to get out of the house rather than sit at home on her own.

After getting off the train and walking for a short while, they came to the entrance of Hyde Park.

“Ever seen the Italian Gardens?” Tyler asked.

“Have I ever seen the what?” Kristina said, looking confused.

“The Italian Gardens.” Tyler replied. “You obviously don’t know your history.”

“No, I can’t say I do. History has never been one of my favourite subjects.” Kristina said, sighing. “But I suppose you’re going to tell me all about it.”

“You’re not going to make this easy for me are you!” Tyler said, frowning slightly. “We can always go somewhere else.”

“No, I’m sorry.” Kristina said, feeling guilty. “I didn’t mean it to come out like that. It’s just that I didn’t get much sleep last night and I’m not in the best of moods.”

“You want to talk about it?” Tyler asked. “I’m a good listener.”

“No, I’d rather not if it’s okay with you.” she replied, taking hold of his arm. “Come on, I want to hear all about these gardens. Impress me with your knowledge of English history.”

A smile reappeared on Tyler’s face and he started to tell Kristina about the Park’s history. Hyde Park once belonged to a manor used by monks, eventually being seized by Henry VIII who turned it in to a hunting ground. In the eighteenth century, Queen Caroline took 300 acres from Hyde Park and made it part of Kensington Gardens. She created the Serpentine river, by damning the Westbourne Stream, dividing Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. Queen Victoria then commissioned the Italian Gardens.

“Well, you really did surprise me, Tyler.” Kristina said, as they sat down on a bench next to one of the fountains. “You’re not just a pretty face, are you!”

“And neither are you.” he replied, making Kristina blush. “Are you up for some more sightseeing?”

“Sure, did you have somewhere else in mind?” she asked.

“Well, just over that bridge is the Serpentine Gallery. Tyler replied. “There’s an exhibition of an Icelandic artist, conceptual art, what ever that is.”

“I thought you knew everything.” Kristina said, smirking.

“Almost everything.” Tyler said grinning. “But not quite everything.”

“In that case, we had better go and find out what conceptual art is then.” Kristina replied.

****************
David sat down on the sofa and took out the piece of paper that Kristina had given him the night before, with Angie’s phone number on it. For the last fifteen minutes David had been trying to get the courage to phone Angie. He wasn’t sure what to say and was worried Angie might not remember him. In the end he just picked up the phone, dialled the number and decided to see what happened. After all, the worst that could happen would be for Angie to turn him down.

“Angie?”

“Yes, speaking.” she replied.

“It’s David.”

Angie nearly dropped the phone when she realised who it was. She recognised the American accent but seriously didn’t expect it to be him.

“Oh… hi David.” she replied, trying to remain composed. “How are you?”

“I’m fine thanks.” David said, calmly, hoping that Angie couldn’t sense the nervousness in his voice. “I was just wondering what you were doing tonight.”

“Tonight?” Angie replied. “Uhm… actually I was going out. Why do you ask?”

“I thought… I mean…” David slouched in his seat. Was Angie was giving him the brush off? “I was hoping that you might want to go out for dinner sometime… with me.”

Angie stared at the phone. She had to be dreaming. The tall incredibly good looking blonde American was asking her out to dinner?

“Dinner with you?” Angie replied. “I’d love to!”

“You would?” David said, surprised.

“Absolutely!” Angie replied. “But I really can’t tonight. It’s a friends birthday and I can’t cancel.”

“No, of course not.” David said, now grinning from ear to ear. “I wouldn’t expect you to do that. How about I give you a call tomorrow or Monday and we can arrange something?”

“Okay that sounds good.” Angie replied, her face beaming.

“Great! I’ll give you a call soon then.” David said, still grinning to himself.

“I’ll look forward to it.” Angie replied, “Bye David.”

“Bye Angie.”

****************

“So can you tell me what conceptual art is?” Kristina asked, as they left the gallery.

“Well it’s… it’s…” Tyler pulled a leaflet out of his jacket. “…lyricism and stark poetry that transcends the often common-place subjects and materials that artists use.”

“That’s cheating!” Kristina said, when she saw him reading the leaflet. “What you meant to say is, I don‘t know.”

“And you’re telling me that you do?” Tyler asked.

“I’m none the wiser.” she replied.

“Me neither.” Tyler said, shrugging his shoulders. “Shall we go back and ask them?” he added, turning back towards the gallery.

“Uhm… how about you go and ask them?” Kristina replied. “I’ll wait here and when you come back, you can tell me what they say.”

“Ok, maybe not.” Tyler said, turning back to face her.

“Chicken!” Kristina said, quietly laughing.

Tyler didn’t reply.

“What are you looking so pleased about?” Kristina asked, when she saw Tyler standing there, grinning at her.

“You smiled.” he said, still grinning.

“No I didn’t!” she replied, abruptly.

“Oh yes you did!” he said waving a finger at her.

“No I didn’t!” Kristina said, turning away from him, so that he couldn‘t see her smiling again. “Let’s go and get something to eat. I’m hungry.”

“Sure, I know the perfect place called The Orangery. It’s about a fifteen minute walk from here.” Tyler replied, leading the way. “And stop trying to change the subject, you definitely smiled. “

“Did not.” Kristina said, looking at Tyler, this time unable to hide the smile on her face.

“Did.” he replied, smiling back and taking her hand in his.

***** CHAPTER 68 *****

After having lunch at The Orangery and then walking back through Hyde Park, Tyler and Kristina had taken the tube home and then walked to Kristina’s house.

“Did you want to come in?” Kristina asked, as they reached they reached her front door. “The least I can do is invite you in after taking me out for the day.”

“I’d love to say yes but I have to be somewhere later this evening.” Tyler replied. “My father’s arriving in London tonight and I’m going to collect him from the airport.”

“In that case I’d better let you go.” Kristina said, kissing him on the cheek. “Thank you for a lovely day, I’ve really enjoyed myself.”

“It was my pleasure, it was worth it just to see you smile.” Tyler said, taking a small bow and making Kristina blush. “So will you let me take you out again? That was our deal, if you remember.”

“Yes, I remember.” Kristina said, smiling. “And yes I’d like that.”

“Great.” Tyler said, smiling back at her.

The two then stood in silence.

“I’d better get going.” he said finally, still smiling at her.

“Okay I’ll see you on Monday.” Kristina replied.

But Tyler didn’t move, he continued to look at Kristina. He then stepped closer, sliding an arm around her waist and gently pulling her to him, before leaning to down to kiss her. But just as he went to kiss Kristina on the lips, she turned her head to the side and Tyler ended up kissing her on the cheek.

“Goodnight Tyler.”

“Goodnight Kristina.”

Kristina smiled and watched Tyler leave, as he walked down the path and along the street. When she could no longer see him, Kristina went inside, closed the door and leant against it, sighing. Kristina wanted to kiss Tyler but when it came to it she couldn’t do it. Kristina was about to let him kiss her but felt a sudden pang of guilt, as if she were betraying her heart, betraying her love for Urs. But it would’ve only been a kiss, one innocent little kiss. Yet Kristina couldn’t help wondering what else might happen if she continued to see Tyler; would it be more than just a kiss?

Kristina wasn’t sure what to do. She had promised herself never to date anyone she worked with but had broken that promise when she met David. Now there was Tyler, caring, sensitive, funny, attractive, but he was a work colleague. Yet he was the only man she had ever shown any interest in since Urs. If it meant she could move on and forget Urs maybe she would have to break her promise yet again.

She hadn’t forgotten that it was only yesterday that she had come so close to telling Urs she loved him but she also knew that it was pointless in letting him know. Nothing would come of it. Kristina had no idea what was going to happen next between her and Tyler and so she decided just to let nature take it course. What did she have to lose? She had already lost the most important thing in her life; Urs.

*********************

That night, Kristina had the best nights sleep she’d had in a long time. She felt like a new person and she was sure it was because of Tyler. She had been up early and decided to catch up on her emails when she realised she had left her laptop at work. After everything that had happened on Friday with Urs and then Tyler offering to take her home, she must’ve forgotten about it.

Kristina had phoned for a taxi and asked him to wait outside for her while she picked up her laptop. As she walked in to her office, straight away she noticed the smell of Tyler’s cologne. She had never noticed it before but after being so close to him last night when he kissed her, she now instinctively knew it was him and didn‘t even notice the smile it brought to her face when she thought of him. She then remembered the taxi driver waiting outside for her and quickly picked up her laptop and went downstairs.

*************
Marius had got up early that morning. He had been trying to think of how he could speak with Kristina before Urs did. He didn’t want to leave it until tomorrow morning and risk the chance of Urs speaking to Kristina before he did. He decided to take a chance and see if she was at the Sony offices, and if she wasn’t there, he would try the Cavendish offices. As the taxi pulled up alongside the kerb outside Sony BMG, Marius saw Kristina exiting the building and get in to a taxi. Marius couldn’t believe his luck and asked the taxi driver to follow them.

A short drive later and the two taxi’s pulled up in a small respectable street, lined with trees on both sides.

Marius was about to get out of the taxi, when he saw a man approach Kristina. They seemed to know each other and Marius watched as Kristina went inside, the man following behind her.

*************

“I hope you don’t mind me showing up like this.” Tyler said, as he followed Kristina in to the kitchen.

“Of course I don’t mind.” Kristina replied. “You’re always welcome here.”

Kristina picked up the kettle and filled it with water.

“Did you want a coffee?” she asked.

“I’d love one.” he replied, as he sat down on one of the breakfast stools.

While Kristina went to the fridge and took out the milk and placed two mugs on the counter; Tyler watched her.

“Actually… I needed to talk to you about something.” Tyler said quietly.

“Oh?” Kristina said, as she switched the kettle on.

“I know we weren’t going to see each other again until work tomorrow but I couldn’t wait that long.” Tyler said quietly. “I wanted to apologise. I wanted to clear the air.”

Kristina turned to face Tyler.

“Apologise for what?” she asked, frowning.

“Yesterday.” he replied. “I shouldn’t have tried to kiss you. I don’t want you to think that I’m only after one thing. I really like you Kristina and I enjoyed being with you yesterday.”

“And I enjoyed being with you too.” Kristina replied. “But last night… there are things you don’t know about.”

“I know.” Tyler replied. “But you don’t have to explain it to me. You even told me yourself, that you would never date anyone you worked with and here’s me asking you out on a second date and trying to kiss you. If you don‘t want to go out with me again, we can cancel the date. I‘ll understand. But I‘ll be honest with you. I really like you Kristina and I would love to be more than just friends.”

Kristina looked at Tyler. She hardly knew this man but she got the impression that he meant what he said. He was genuinely sorry for yesterday and was giving her the opportunity to back out of their agreement.

“I don’t want to cancel our date.” Kristina said, smiling at Tyler. “I think I’d like to be more than friends too.”

“Are you sure?” he asked. “I don’t want to make things uncomfortable between us at work. We can think of yesterday as two friends enjoying each others company. So if you’re not sure about this or you‘re having any doubts just tell me.”

Kristina wasn’t sure what possessed her to do what she did next but she had been thinking about it all night. She walked over to Tyler, who was still sitting on the breakfast stool. She stood in front of him, her mouth hovering over his, waiting for him to object; but he didn’t. Kristina cupped his jaw in her hands and kissed him, his lips were warm and soft. Kristina could feel her heart racing as his tongue touched her lips and she parted her mouth in response. Kristina kissed him, gently caressing his tongue with her own. After a few seconds, they slowly pulled away from each other.

“No doubts.” she said softly. “Now, how do you have your coffee? Black or white?”

***** CHAPTER 69 *****

Marius had been sitting outside Kristina’s house for around two hours when the man finally left. He hadn’t intended on waiting that long but he wanted to be sure Kristina was on her own when he spoke to her. He watched as the man got in to his car and drove off. As soon as he was out of sight, Marius crossed the road and made his way to Kristina’s front door.

Kristina and Tyler had been together for a couple of hours, talking and getting to know each other a little better. Kristina had invited Tyler to stay for lunch and he had accepted. But he had offered to cook her a meal and had decided to drive to the shop and buy some ingredients. While Tyler was out, Kristina took the opportunity to catch up on her emails. She had just switched the laptop on when the doorbell rang. Kristina sighed in frustration and got up to answer the door.

“Marius!”

“You remember me then?” Marius said.

“Yes, you’re Urs’ friend.” she replied, obviously shocked at seeing him. “But what are you doing here?”

“I came to see you.” he answered. “Can I come in?”

“Yes… yes of course.” she said, standing back to let him inside. “I’m sorry, I’m just surprised to see you.”

“Yes, it’s been awhile.” Marius said, as he followed Kristina in to the lounge.

“Please, sit down.” Kristina said, gesturing to a chair. “Can I get you anything to drink?”

“No, thank you.” Marius said, as he sat down. “This won’t take long.”

“So what can I do for you?” Kristina asked. “I can’t possibly imagine what brings you here.”

“I think we both know why I’m here.” Marius replied, coldly. “There’s only one thing you and I have in common and that’s Urs.”

“You want to talk to me about Urs?” Kristina asked.

Marius nodded.

“I’ll come straight to the point.” he said, firmly. “I want you to stay away from him.”

“You want…” Kristina was shocked. “You want me to what?”

“You heard. I want you to stay away from him.” Marius said abruptly. “He’s told me everything that’s happened between you two, from the moment you two first met right up until Friday night.”

“What exactly has he told you?” Kristina asked. “Why do you feel the need to come and see me or did he send you?”

“No he didn’t send me. But he told me what you said on Friday.” Marius replied. “That you lied to him about loving him. I want to know what the hell you were thinking of when you told him that. There was no need for him to know. Not unless you still love him. Do you still love him?”

“I don’t appreciate being spoken to like this and certainly not in my own home. And as for your question, I’m sorry but that’s none of your business.” Kristina replied. “Whatever has happened is between me and Urs.”

“Not anymore.” Marius said, shaking his head. “Urs was happy with Saskia until you showed up, causing arguments, confusing him, distracting him from his work. Being with Il Divo is a dream come true for Urs and you’re spoiling it all for him.”

“I wouldn’t dream of doing such a thing.” Kristina replied. “Urs means a lot to me.” Kristina daren‘t ask, least of all Marius but curiosity got the better of her. “Is Urs still happy with Saskia?”

“Oh no, don’t think for one minute that he loves you.” Marius said, mockingly. “He’s happy with Saskia, more than happy. But you’re not exactly making life easy for him.”

“And how do you work that one out?” Kristina asked. “You do know that we’ve called a truce, we’re friends now.”

“Oh I know all about that!” Marius replied, waving his hand in the air. “But that doesn’t mean crap. You don‘t know what he‘s been through before he met you. You don‘t know about him and Aimee do you?”

Kristina shook her head. She had never heard Urs mention Aimee once in all the time she had known him.

“Aimee was Urs’ girlfriend.” Marius replied. “He was in love with her and they were virtually inseparable. But one night they were on their way home from a party and Urs was driving. It wasn‘t Urs‘ fault but there was an accident and Aimee died. It took him almost a year to start living a normal life again. Then he met you and everything went down hill again.”

“Why are you blaming me?” Kristina asked, confused. “I haven’t done anything wrong. I’ve never led him on. I had a boyfriend at the time. Even when Urs told me he loved me I never once told him the truth. I never told him that I loved him. I thought I was doing the right thing by lying to him.”

“Urs never loved you.” Marius replied.

“How do you know ?” Kristina asked.

“Because I’m his best friend.” Marius snapped. “And I’ve known him since we were children. I know him better than anyone else.”

“But he still told me he loved me.” Kristina retorted. “You can’t deny that.”

“I’m not denying anything. He might have said it but he didn’t mean it. He only thought he loved you. He was infatuated with you because you looked like his beloved Aimee. If you didn’t look like her, he wouldn’t even take a second look at you.” he added spitefully. “He just wishes that you would leave him alone. You bring back too many bad memories.”

“He actually said that to you?” Kristina asked, weakly. “He doesn’t want to have anything to do with me?”

“What do you think?” Marius sneered. “He’s with Saskia, not you. Who do you think he really loves? It certainly isn‘t you dear.”

“Okay that’s it… I’ve had enough of being polite.” Kristina said getting up from her seat. “I’m not listening to another word you have to say.”

“Truth hurts doesn’t it.” Marius sneered. “Don‘t speak to him, don‘t go anywhere near him. Don‘t even look at him! Got it?”

“Now just wait one minute!” Kristina yelled. “Who made you God? I’ve been polite and listened to what you had to say but you can’t come in to my home and insult me, mock me and tell me what to do!”

“Maybe not.” Marius calmly replied, as he got up from his chair. “But Urs is my friend and I want what’s best for him. I want him to have a good life, one that doesn’t include you. You made his life a living nightmare when you told him you didn’t love him and now you start dredging up old memories. He‘ll never love you.”

“I want you to leave.” Kristina said, pushing Marius towards the door. “And I want you to leave NOW!”

“What’s going on?” Tyler asked, as he let himself in, with the spare key Kristina had leant him.

“Nothing!” Kristina replied angrily. “This… this imbecile is just about to leave. Aren’t you!”

“Just remember what I told you!” Marius said as he walked past Kristina and headed to the front door. “He never did and he never will.”

“GET OUT!” Kristina screamed, as she pushed Marius out the door and slammed it shut.

“What was all that about?” Tyler asked. “Or should I keep out of it?”

Kristina didn’t reply. She turned and hurried in to the kitchen. Tyler wasn’t sure whether he should leave or follow her but he decided to follow her and make sure she was alright.

“Are you okay?” Tyler asked, as he entered the kitchen.

“I’m fine.” she replied, as she grabbed a tissue and wiped her eyes.

“Who was he?” Tyler asked. “An ex boyfriend?”

“Oh God, no!” Kristina said, trying to laugh about it. “Just a friend of… a friend of someone I know.”

“Urs?” Tyler asked.

“Why do you say that?” Kristina said, turning to face him.

“The accent.” he replied. “It reminded me of Urs.”

Kristina turned her back on Tyler and wiped her eyes again, giving a small sniff.

“Yes, his name’s Marius. He’s a friend of Urs’.”

“So what’s he doing here?” Tyler said, as he walked towards Kristina. “Apart from obviously upsetting you.” he added, as he put his hands on her shoulders and gently turned her to face him.

“I want to be honest with you Tyler, but… you might not want to see me again.” Kristina said, looking down at the floor.

“Hey it can’t be all that bad.” Tyler said, putting a finger under her chin and tilting her head up so she had to look at him. “You can tell me anything; anything at all.”

“You might not want to hear it though.” Kristina replied.

Tyler took her hand and led her in to the lounge where they both sat down.

“Now come on. Tell me what’s wrong.” he said softly.

Kristina had to be honest with Tyler. If she was going to start a relationship with him she didn‘t want it to be based on lies and deceit, but she was scared. Scared that if she told him she still loved Urs, he would have second thoughts about the two of them and the relationship would be over before it had even begun.

***** CHAPTER 70 *****

Kristina told Tyler the whole story of how she and Urs had met over four years ago in New York. Then how she had visited Paris to meet a client, Sebastien, and stayed with Urs. Kristina had even told Tyler how Stephanie revealed to her that Urs was in love with her. But there was only one small detail which she hadn’t mentioned to him; the fact that Stephanie had pushed her down the stairs. The only people that knew how Kristina really broke her wrist were Stephanie, Urs and herself. Kristina hadn’t even told David and she didn’t see the point in telling him now. It all happened such a long time ago and no one would gain anything from it. If anything, it would only make things difficult between David and Urs and she didn’t want anything to interfere with the groups working relationship.

Kristina had told Tyler everything, right up until Friday night.

“So you were going to tell him you love him?” Tyler asked.

“I was just about to tell him when you and Saskia came in to the room.” Kristina replied.

Tyler was silent and Kristina wondered what he was thinking.

“Can I ask you something?” Tyler said, faintly.

Kristina nodded.

“If you still love Urs… why are you even thinking about starting a relationship with me?” Tyler said, weakly. “Or are you just using me?”

“Using you?” Kristina said, shocked. “I would never do that, Tyler. You have to believe me.”

“So if you love Urs why don’t you just tell him?” Tyler said, abruptly. “Are you trying to make him jealous by letting him see me and you together?”

“No!” Kristina exclaimed. “It’s not that way at all. Yes I love Urs but I can’t tell him I love him. For one thing he’s with Saskia and I wouldn’t want to ruin that relationship. And then… then I found out from Marius that the only reason Urs had feelings for me is because I look like Aimee. She was his girlfriend but she died in a car accident.”

“Is that what Marius told you just before I arrived?” Tyler asked.

“Yes. He told me that Urs never loved me and that he will never love me.” she replied. “I’d already decided on Friday night, just before you came in, that I could never tell Urs how I felt. I realised nothing would ever happen. Marius coming here this morning only confirmed it.”

“I still don’t understand why you want to start a relationship with me?” Tyler asked, slowly shaking his head. “If you love Urs, why did you kiss me? Am I some kind of experiment?”

“Experiment?” Kristina said, utterly confused. “I’m sorry, I don’t…”

“Am I just someone who’s convenient?” Tyler said, weakly. “I just happen to be in the right place at the right time? Someone who will help you get over Urs.”

Kristina got off the sofa and knelt down on the floor in front of Tyler. She took his hands in hers.

“Tyler, you have to believe me.” she said, looking directly in to his eyes. “Since Urs, you’re the first man that I’ve ever looked at. You’re the first man that I’ve even considered having a relationship with. I said I would never date anyone I worked with but I’m willing to break that rule for you. And I kissed you because I wanted to. I wanted you to kiss me last night; I don’t know why I turned away. I guess I was scared but when you left, all I could think about was what it would be like to kiss you. Maybe you are in the right place at the right time, but you’re certainly not convenient, as you put it. And I’ll be honest with you; I don’t know how long I will have these feelings for Urs. All I know is that I don‘t want to have feelings for him anymore. I want to love only one man. And I hope that in time, you’ll be that man, Tyler.”

Tyler was silent again.

“Do you still want to see me?” Kristina asked, warily. She hadn’t realised just how much was she attracted to Tyler until now and was scared of what his answer might be. She had just opened her heart to Tyler and now he could decide that he wanted nothing more to do with her.

“I don’t expect miracles. I know it must be difficult for you.” Tyler replied. “And I appreciate you being honest with me but….”

“But what?” Kristina asked.

“But are you really sure about us?” he asked.

“Yes.” she replied, smiling. “Absolutely. So do you still want to see me? You still haven‘t answered my question.”

Tyler nodded.

“Are you sure?” Kristina replied. “I’ll understand if you don’t want to. Things might get a little awkward at work sometimes but I‘ll do anything to….”

Tyler leant forward and covered her mouth with his, kissing her with such force that he had to put his arms around her to stop her falling back.

“I’m sure.” Tyler replied, a big smile appearing on his face. “And what ever happens at work I’m sure we’ll get through it. Together.”

“There’s just one thing.” Kristina said, seriously.

“What is it?” Tyler asked.

“I don’t want you to mention anything to Urs.” Kristina replied. “I don’t want him to know about Marius coming to see me.”

“Why on earth not?” Tyler said, frowning. “He had no right to do what he did.”

“I know.” Kristina replied. “But what good will it do? It will only make more trouble and I don’t want to be the cause of it. I know the truth now and it’s embarrassing enough as it is. I don’t want Urs to find out that I know why he has feelings for me. I just want to put it all behind me.”

“Okay, I won’t say anything.” Tyler replied. “I promise.”

“Thank you.” Kristina said, as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “And I promise that you won’t regret this, Tyler. I want things to work out for us and I’m going to make you the happiest man alive.”

“You’ve already done that.” he whispered softly, pulling away from her slightly before gently kissing her on the lips.