Forever My Love - 2. Chapter 2: Things get a little twisted for David. Will he remember anything?

Comments, critiques and tips are welcome!

***

Jim was coming out from the backyard, looking around and seemingly worried. He was irritated to the core and God knows he was a few seconds away from snapping. He had just said goodbye to the last people that had come over. He took his phone and began calling but the phone rang and just cut.

“Hey there!” He heard Claudia’s voice.

She was smiling at him.

“What’s up?” She patted his shoulder. “You look worried.”

He let out a sigh. “I am worried. I haven’t seen my husband since the introduction. He’s been missing and I’ve been trying to call him but unsuccessful.” He was so stressed. “How could he do this on our anniversary?” He had tears in his eyes. “He knew how important this was to me. I explained it to him and he promised.”

“Shhh…” Claudia smiled, rubbing his back. “...don’t worry too much. I am pretty sure there’s an explanation to all of this and…” She paused and laughed when she looked towards the entrance door. “…look, he’s fine. He’s coming right back.”

Hearing that, Jim’s eyes quickly moved towards the door and he saw David coming inside with the biggest smile he’d ever seen on his face. He had Michael on his shoulder and the both of them seemed so happy. He saw the smile on the young boy’s face and he didn’t need to be a genius to know that he was the reason that David had left the party.

Clenching his fist, he rushed towards them.

“Where were you?” He said angrily. “You left me on our anniversary all alone. Do you know how embarrassing it was when people kept asking me where you went?”

“Oh!” David chuckled nervously, carefully putting his son down. “I am so sorry for that. Michael wanted some ice cream and chocolates.” He continued, pinching his laughing son’s cheeks. “I had to go with him. Besides, I told you that I didn’t like parties anymore so I took it as an escape route. I am so sorry, Jim.”

A look of great bitterness swept across Jim’s face when he looked at the little boy. God, if only he could do something to him, he could show him exactly how mad he was.

“I told you and I begged you to bear with me.” His voice was rising. “You were supposed to be by my side but you chose his side? Why am I not surprised?” He chuckled bitterly. “It is always Michael, Michael that. Don’t my feelings matter to you?”

“They do, it’s just that…”

“Just that what?” He snapped, breathing like a warrior on the war ground. “Just that what, David? Michael is a child and he needs to know that he cannot always get what he wants. He needs to understand that just because something is in his reach doesn’t mean he can always have it. This was supposed to be the best night of my life, but as usual, he managed to ruin it.”

The little boy was obviously scared from the way he held on to David’s trouser.

“Sorry…” He said in a panicky voice.

“Sorry?” Jim snapped, shaking his head. “Come here right now.” He demanded.

“Jim…”

“No, David, I am having a talk with my son and I don’t want you to interfere.” He said, still staring at the obviously scared boy. “Michael, come here right now.” But the boy wasn’t letting go of his father’s trousers. “Now!” He yelled, making the boy to get startled.

He slowly let go of David’s trouser and started moving towards Jim. But before he could even take two steps, Jim gripped his arm painfully and pulled him close. The boy let out a painful cry.

“What have I told you, huh?” He hit his bum with his hand, wishing he could do more. “I told you no ruin this moment but you did.”

“I am sorry.” He cried.

“Jim, that’s enough!” David spoke, feeling anger slowly developing.

“Why do you always do this?” He yelled, starting to drag the boy to his room. “I’ll lock you up in your room so that you won’t do this again.”

“Jim?” Claudia intervened. “What do you think you’re doing? He’s only a child.”

“A child that should know that when he does something wrong, there’s gonna be a punishment.”

“Please,” Michael cried, trying to resist. “Dad, please, help!” He tried to reach David who stood there trying to figure out what to do. “Dad!” He screamed.

“Jim, let him go.” He said as he began running after him. “You’ll hurt him.”

“I don’t care. He…”

“I said that’s enough!” His voice was so loud, so thunderous, that Jim stopped in his track and turned slowly. Staring at him, he couldn’t recognize him. Sure, David had been upset with him before but the way he was looking at that time was different.

David’s muscles grew tense. He furiously walked to Jim and got his son in his arms, staring into his eyes. He hated Jim at that moment and hearing his son’s sobs definitely made him madder.

“If you have some score to settle then do it with me instead of getting it on our son.” He snapped, raising a finger at him. “I was the one that decided to take him. I was the one that was driving and I was the one that wanted to leave.”

Jim felt tears build in his eyes. He felt so much pain.

“I can take you doing whatever you want to me but I’ll not let you torture this boy.” He warned, breathing harshly. “You can call it discipline but I call it torture and I’ll not let you do this to my son. I am sorry for ruining your beautiful surprise party.” He started going away but stopped. “And have a goodnight. Don’t expect me to come to our room. I’ll spend the night with Michael!”

With those words, David stormed out of there, leaving Jim broken.

Jim’s mouth opened but words couldn’t find their way out. The pain he felt was so intense that he felt like hitting something.

“Calm down, Jim.” Claudia reassured, cupping his cheeks. “He’s just angry and he’ll come around. You know how much he loves his son and doesn’t wanna see him get hurt.”

“He’s my son too.” Jim snapped, furiously rubbing a tear that made its way down his cheek. “But why does he act like he’s the only one that cares for him. I care for him too and…”

“I don’t think you do.” A voice came, a very familiar voice.

Jim felt like someone was rubbing salt in his wounds. In no time, Amber came into view and she seemed so happy seeing Jim all sad. She was in her night gown and had been watching the whole scene.

“Seriously, you even have the nerve to ask that question?” She chirped, shaking her head. “Of course, David is the only one that cares for that boy. While he sees a son, you only see competition, competition for David’s affection. And honestly, I don’t know what kind of sick man competes with a child who is his son for the husband’s affection.”

“I am not in the mood for this.” Jim snarled, his fists clenching. “You don’t know what you’re saying so I suggest you shut your mouth before…”

“Before what?” Amber crossed her arms, her face becoming stern. “You’re gonna lock me up in my room too?” She chuckled in mock. “Why am I not surprised you’re acting like this? After all, having a mother like Elena is enough for someone to know not to expect anything good from you.”

“Amber?” Claudia gasped, her eyes widening. “Why are you being disrespectful? There has been enough drama for the night so just stop!”

“Why am I not surprised you’re supporting him?” She shrugged. “It’s expected of you. You just stood there and watched him abusing a little boy. Have you no conscience at all, mom?”

Claudia rolled her eyes.

“Why am I even asking this?” She shook her head. “A woman that has been able to live with what happened five years ago, what more can I expect from you. And I am glad that David pays so much attention to Michael than to you. It’s simply pay back for what you did to Ben years ago. After all, karma is a bitch. And he’ll continue doing that until he no longer sees you as nothing but a friend.”

With a victorious laugh, Amber left.

“Don’t pay attention to her, okay.” Claudia reassured. “David will come around and I need you to be more careful with the way you handle Michael while David is around. You know how much he loves him. Hurting him will only make you seem like a villain.”

Jim nodded without saying a word.

“Now cheer up and get some rest.”

Jim went upstairs although God knows he was so mad that he saw red.

***

A woman came running happily and tapped on the man’s shoulder whose back was to her.

“Excuse me, Mr. Henandez.”

Ben turned and wore the brightest smile. The woman was just so beautiful and she made his heart feel warm.

“Yes!”

“Please, come with.” She said excitedly. “The kids wanted to thank you for your help and your donations in a very special way.”

Ben nodded and followed the woman. He was at a foundation that helped women and children. He had brought some donations and had almost spent the whole day with them, cleaning, painting and cooking. There was nothing that gave him more peace than seeing kids happy.

When he reached there, he found children who he presumed the oldest was 13 standing there waiting for him. Seeing them, he felt so happy but before he could say anything, a guitar started playing. And the kids started moving in sync.

‘Down and out, all alone

Sitting here, sad and Ooh

The sun is now going down. It’s kinda cold, seeking refuge.’

They were singing Celine Dion’s song, ‘Thank you.’ Their voices were so beautiful, and they sang in such harmony. Ben chuckled as he stared at them happily, raising his thumbs. He couldn’t help but feel so lucky.

‘Thank you…. Thank you…

Because you didn’t have to.’

As he was busy listening to the kids, he felt someone hold his hand tightly. When he looked, he found a beautiful young girl who was barely five years old staring up at him. She was a very beautiful girl. With a chuckle, he leaned and cupped her cheeks, smiling at her.

“Hey there, sweetie!”

The girl smiled and nodded without responding. But suddenly… he got flashbacks of the first time he had held his daughter. She had been cold and lifeless, dead. He didn’t even get to hear her cries or see her smile like that.

Slowly, the sadness enveloped him in its smothering embrace. Slowly, the pain began settling inside him and his smile began fading. All the voices were muffled as the cloud of sadness descended over him and his eyesight was hazy.

‘Leah!’ A voice filled with pain screamed in his head.

Slowly, Ben removed his hands from the little girl and stood up, focusing on the kids that were singing. He tried so hard to fight his tears and smile but he wasn’t fooling anyone. What he felt was stronger and he wasn’t gonna mask it.

He was so lost that he didn’t even realize that the kids had already finished their song. He came to reality when he heard everyone clapping. He wore a smile and clapped with everyone else.

“That was very good guys.” He commented. “That was amazing. All of you have such nice voices and I will forever cherish this moment. Thank you very much.”

With those words, he quickly turned and rushed out of there. He went to a room and felt lonely as he slowly walked in, trying to gather himself while silent tears ran down his cheek from sorrow.

‘I love you, papa.’

He heard a voice ring in his head from the series of dreams he’d had about his daughter.

“Leah!” He sobbed quietly as he leaned on a nearby table, feeling his strength leave him. His mind was once again stuck in a never-ending loop of hopelessness.

“Leah!”

He did his best to block out the pang of grief that appeared to be pulsing through his veins, but it was always there, like a whisper in his ear. He knew he had lost touch with his former self and lived in a continual terror that he would never be able to find his way back.

Seconds passed, minutes even… but it felt like hours. He felt a hand on his shoulder and he felt startled. He quickly rubbed his tears and found a woman staring at him with concern on her face.

“Are you okay?” She asked softly. “I hope it’s not something that we did here that made you sad.”

“No!” He sighed, shaking his head. “I am so sorry… the little girl just reminded me of someone, my daughter. I…” He paused and took in a harsh breath. “…I lost her over five years ago. It’s something that I have been unable to get over.”

“I am sorry.” She apologized. “I had no idea that you lost your child. But what I know she’d be very happy knowing that you’re helping other kids that need your help. God gives and he takes. You’re a good man and I know you’ll make a very good father one day.”

Ben nodded. “Thank you so much.” He sighed, trying to pull up a smile. “Is there still more work that needs to be done?”

“Yes! But I think you should stay here and rest.”

“No! Just give me a minute. I will join you.” He replied. “I cannot just remain here and drown in my pain. I need to keep myself busy. That’s the only way for me to be happy.”

“Alright, sir.” She squeezed his shoulder.

She left him alone. Ben stood there for a long time just thinking. When the memories of his daughter hit him, it was very hard for him to go back to his usual mood. He needed to keep busy. After freshening up, he went out to help with whatever was to be done.

***

David was reviewing a document on their latest designs when he heard the door to his office open and footsteps begin to approach his desk. He didn’t need to be a genius to know that it was Jim that had come. He had gotten up early, took his son to school without even seeing or greeting Jim.

“Hey baby, how are you doing?” He heard a joyful voice greet him. “I missed you. You didn’t even wake me up this morning or text me. When I woke up, you were already gone.”

David raised his face and took a glance at his husband. He was dressed seductively in a black shirt that was half-way buttoned with his chest exposed, showing off his golden necklace. The shirt was tucked in a blue skinny jean that was tight on him. His hair was just curled and loose and he had little makeup.

“I was busy and I didn’t wanna disturb you.” He said as if he didn’t care. “I needed to get here early. Besides, I wanted to personally drop Michael off at school.”

Jim smiled and then walked seductively around the table to where his husband was seated. He placed his hands on his shoulder and massaged them, trying to get to the man.

“Jim, I am trying to work.” David sighed in frustration. “Do you mind?”

Jim slowly turned the chair so that David was facing him.

“You know that isn’t true, David.” He shook his head. “You’re avoiding me and I know why. I shouldn’t have acted the way I did with our son. I was just so upset with the way things went. Yesterday was meant to be a special night for us and he ruined everything for us. I know he’s a child but sometimes he needs to know that he cannot get everything he wants.”

“Michael is just a little boy and having kids means that we need to sacrifice some of our time to spoil them, to be with them.” David said, a little harshly. “You were more concerned about impressing the guests more than you cared about your son. If I hadn’t interfered, you’d have locked that boy up.”

“I am sorry.” He said, wrapping his arms around David. “But I was just angry and I shouldn’t have done what I did. Besides, you punished me so much yesterday by not coming to bed. Isn’t that enough punishment? You know how much I hate being away from you, baby.”

David just looked at the man.

“Please!” He held his ears, smiling seductively at the man.

David combed his hair with his fingers before he gave a sigh of relief.

“I am not the one you need to make it up to. It’s our son.”

“I know.” He literally jumped like a child. “That’s why I came here so that we can go and pick him up for school together. Then we can have lunch together. That way, I get to spend time with the two people that I mostly care about.”

David sighed. “I don’t know, I have a lot of things that I have to do.”

“David, I am trying my best here. You’re the one that said our son comes first.”

“Okay!” David raised his hands like he was surrendering. “Alright, we’ll go and pick him up. Where are we going for lunch?”

Jim smiled. “I’ll let Michael choose that. We’ll go to any place that he wants.”

Hearing his answer, David couldn’t help but smile. He got up from his chair and picked up his jacket.

“Ready?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

“No!” Jim shook his head. “Aren’t you forgetting something?” He gestured to his lips. “I haven’t had a taste of them since yesterday. My lips also need to feel good.”

“Oh!” He chuckled nervously before he leaned and gave him a peck on the lips. He was about to withdraw when the man held the back of his head and gave him a full-blown kiss. It didn’t last long but he made sure that his tongue was deep inside him.

“Now we’re ready to go.”

Jim coiled his arm with his husband’s and the both of them were on their way out, having a conversation and laughing… well, Jim was laughing.

***

David and his family arrived at the five-star restaurant and they seemed happy.

“Hey, Michael!” Jim smiled, cupping his cheeks. “Do you like this place? You can order anything and dad will get it for you, okay?”

The boy stared at David before he stared at Jim again. Jim could tell he was scared of him. He was in his father’s arms and didn’t seem to want to get out of there.

“Come here, baby.” He opened his arms.

The boy was hesitant, he looked at David and held on tighter.

“Come on,” Jim smiled brightly. “I won’t hurt you. I am no longer mad at you and I am sorry, okay. I shouldn’t have yelled at you yesterday. Daddy makes mistakes sometimes too. Forgive me.” He put his arms together.

“Come on, Michael.” David gestured. “Dad is asking for forgiveness. Forgive him and he’ll be happy. You don’t want daddy to be sad, right?”

Michael shook his head.

“That’s my good boy.” Jim shrieked, kissing Michael’s cheek. He couldn’t help but laugh when Michael jumped into his arms. “I love you so much, my love.”

With those words, they went to an empty table and sat, with Michael on Jim’s lap. The boy was now smiling, although deep inside, he wasn’t as free with Jim as he was with David. It didn’t take so long before a waiter came smiling at their table.

Michael was the star that day. He chose what he wanted to eat, of course, with the ice cream as dessert. Their food was served and they had a good time. The food was delicious and Michael ate a lot of it. After what felt like hours, they were finally done.

“Hey, you still need that ice cream?” David asked, pinching his son’s cheek. And when the boy nodded, he burst into laughter. “Alright, why don’t you hold on while daddy gets it for you?”

He got up from the chair and went to the counter to personally get his son ice cream. He ordered a large cup with two flavors he knew his son loved, Vanilla and Ice cream. As he waited, he got out his phone and began checking his emails to see if there was anything scheduled for him that day. He was busy scrolling when…

“Here is your coffee, sir.” A woman spoke. “I hope you enjoy it and it gets you throughout the day.”

“Thank you so much! And you have an amazing day.”

A cold, tight knot formed in his gut as that voice went through him like an earth quake, disarranging his insides. His hands suddenly began shaking on their own as the familiar voice sent him into a world he didn’t know existed.

‘That voice!’ He thought as his eyes robotically moved upwards to see who that voice belonged to. ‘I have heard that voice before… where?... When?... Where?’ A lot of questions began rippling through him and he couldn’t even answer them.

Suddenly, his eyes landed on someone a distance from where he stood. He was receiving a cup of coffee, ‘Iced Caramel Macchiato’ and it seemed so awfully familiar too. He tried to look at the face but the man had his back towards him so he could not see his face.

His hair was tied in a ponytail, almost reaching his butt. He wore a blue designer t-shirt that fit on him so perfectly and a black skinny jean that showed off his beautiful body. David didn’t see the man but he could already tell he was someone really gorgeous.

As fast as he’d seen him, he got his coffee and started heading out, walking out gracefully. The man was a bit of a distance from him, but he clearly his steps, so beautiful, so poise. And then things started getting weird. With every step the man took, David felt a feeling of familiarity.

Then a hazy image starting forming in his head. He could see himself following someone, like a flashback, but he couldn’t remember any of it. Unconsciously, his feet began moving, following the man. He didn’t know where he was going or what he wanted to do but all he knew was that he had to follow him.

His feet felt heavy as he followed the man, not minding where he was going. He couldn’t help feeling like he had done this before, but in a different place… a mall. He didn’t quite know why he couldn’t shake the feeling off that whoever the man was, he was connected to his past.

As the images flashed, David started experiencing a headache… it was as if someone was pounding on his head.

He stopped in his tracks and massaged his head slowly but it couldn’t go away. When he looked again. The man was heading for the exit.

“Shit!” He said under his breath.

He began walking fast but when he got out, he couldn’t see the man anymore. He walked around to see if he could spot him but there was no sign of him. He was gone and so were the images he had been seen.

“Who was that guy?” He said under his breath, trying to shake off that feeling. “Why did I feel like I know him from somewhere, like he’s connected to my past? Why did I feel like this has happened before?”

Lots of questions with no answers. But before he could go further, he felt a hand on his shoulder that almost made him jump. When he quickly turned, he found Jim staring at him like he’d seen a ghost. He looked worried.

“Baby, are you okay? You seem like you just saw a ghost.”

“Errr… I am okay.” He said sheepishly, trying to put up a smile. “I just felt a headache all of a sudden and needed some air.”

“Really?” Jim gasped, placing his hand on David’s forehead. “Your temperature seem to be a little high. This could be serious.”

“No, I am fine.” He reassured. There was no way he was gonna tell Jim what had happened because he was gonna misinterpret the whole thing and overreact. “Where’s Michael?”

“Inside.” He gestured.

“Alright, can you get him and take him to the car?” He asked softly. “I’ll just get the order and meet you there.”

“Sure!” Jim smiled sheepishly. He felt so uneasy. “I will get him.”

With those words, he went back inside to pick Michael. David remained there for a few seconds, looking around to see if he could spot the man but there was no sign of him. Who could he be, he thought as started heading back inside.

***

David was in the beautiful garden, seated on a swing with his legs crossed. He had his eyes on the fountain of water that seemed to soothe his soul. His mind was still on what had happened to him in the afternoon.

As he was so lost, he felt a hand on his shoulder and he abruptly moved his head and found a big smile waiting for him. It was Amber and she looked like she was ready for sleep. She was already in her Pajamas.

“Hey there, tiger.” She said happily. “How are you doing?”

“I am fine. How are you?”

“I am good too.” She said as she sat beside him, staring at him. “I just put Michael to sleep. Noticed that you wouldn’t be able to do it since you were awfully quiet during dinner.”

“Thanks, I am grateful.” He smiled, taking her hand in his.

He then became awfully quiet afterwards. Amber kept on staring at him, waiting for him to say something but he wasn’t.

“Hey!” She cupped his cheeks. “What’s wrong? You don’t seem fine.”

“I am okay.” He put up a smile.

“You’re not fooling anyone with that smile.” She raised an eyebrow. “I noticed that mood when you came back from lunch. Don’t tell me Jim picked an argument with you again. Why does he keep doing this?” She snarled, shaking her head. “What did he do this time?”

“Nothing!” To say David was surprised would be an understatement. “He was nice to me and we actually had a good time with our son.”

“Then what?” She shrugged. “Talk to me and get me out of my misery.”

“Fine!” He sighed, turning to face her. “I don’t know how this is gonna sound but…” He paused and took a harsh breath. “Have you ever experienced a moment… like Déjà vu…. I don’t even know what to explain.” He combed his hair with his fingers, feeling a little nervous. “Okay.” He sighed, staring at her. “Something happened today at the restaurant when I was getting Michael’s ice cream.”

He stared at her and could see that she was paying attention.

“There was a guy that stood a distance from me. He was ordering some coffee but when I heard his voice…” He paused as the memories flooded him. “…it was like it opened something in my head, it sounded so awfully familiar. Something told me that I had heard that voice somewhere, but I couldn’t remember.”

He got up from the swing and took two steps, staring at the sky.

“It was so beautiful but scary at the same time. My heart was racing.” He added. “My hands began shaking and I developed a headache.”

“What?” Amber rose. “How’s that possible? Did you see the guy’s face?”

“No! Unfortunately, I didn’t get the liberty of seeing his face.” He denied. “But funny thing is when this guy started going away, there were these… these…” He didn’t know how to explain. “…these hazy images in my head. I was in a mall following a guy. I suddenly developed this yearning in my heart that I couldn’t quench. I don’t know what happened but I followed this guy and lost him.”

Amber felt a shiver go down her spine.

‘I followed him but I found out it wasn’t even him. I was pretty sure it was my mystery boy.’

Amber went down memory lane to five years back when David had been pursuing Ben.

“I could have sworn that had happened before but I can’t remember anything.” He turned and placed his hand on her shoulder. “I got so confused and didn’t know what to do. There have been so many questions that I have no answers to.”

‘Oh my God,’ Amber thought. ‘Could it be possible? Ben? Could it have been him after all these years? No one has heard from him or seen him in five years. We don’t even know if he’s still alive or where he is. Could it be that David met Ben without knowing it was him? That’s the only explanation, but I can’t be sure.’

“Amber?”

“What?” Amber gasped, getting out of her thoughts.

“Are you okay?” David asked, staring at her like she’d grown another head. “Why did you zone out? Did you even get anything I said?”

“I… I did.” She gasped, shaking her head. “David!” She took his hands and squeezed them. “I am pretty sure that it was nothing. What you saw is probably your mind playing tricks on you. Maybe it has happened before but there is no knowing. Remember what the doctor told you, right?”

“I know but….”

“No, buts….” She blocked his lips with her fingers. “Remember what happened last time you tried to think hard? I don’t want you to suffer like that again.” She reassured. “If what happened to you today is very important, give it time, it will come back to you naturally.” She got closer and smiled. “Promise me that you won’t think about this, David. Please!”

David knew it was gonna be hard to do what his sister was asking. But he didn’t want her to be worried about him.

“Alright, I promise.”

Amber smiled sheepishly, pulling her brother into a hug. “Thank you so much, David. I love you so much and I care about you.”

“I love you too.”

The hug didn’t last too long but they held each other’s hands. They talked for a while and David felt much better. They headed back inside the house laughing and having fun. As soon as they entered, they found Claudia in the living room with Jim. They both seemed so excited.

“There you are.” Claudia said excitedly, coiling her arms with his. “I was wondering when the both of you were gonna come inside. I have some very good news.”

“Good news?” David sounded surprised. “I hope everything is okay.”

“More than okay.” She enthused, literally jumping like a child. “Tomorrow evening, the chocolate King himself, Gustavo Martinez is having a grand party to celebrate the 21^st anniversary of Juan Martinez Chocolate Hive. I have been trying to get in touch but finally I managed and guess who has been invited as the special guests?”

David was confused.

“You?”

“All of us.” She laughed, gripping his arm harder. “I just got off the phone with his P.A and he just confirmed that Mr. Martinez would love to have a meeting with me.”

“What?” He sighed, a frown appearing on his face. “That’s good news, but I don’t think I am gonna be in attendance. You know how much I hate parties, mon.”

“I know, baby.” She cupped his cheeks and smiled. “But I wouldn’t ask you to attend this if this was not important.”

“But…”

“I reached out to Mr. Martinez and proposed a business deal.” She chuckled nervously. “He agreed to have a discussion at the party and if we do not jump at this, we’re not gonna have this opportunity again. This is a very big company and the biggest producer of chocolates throughout the continent. It will be a very big deal and we cannot miss it. Being President, I am asking you to be there so you can discuss this because you might be working closely with him.”

David got nervous all of a sudden. “But mom…”

“Babe!” Jim chimed, holding his hand tightly. “Mom is very right. This will make a big deal and I wouldn’t be asking you too if it wasn’t important. Think about it, if we get it, it will mean a lot for our son. You know how much he loves chocolates. Now he’s not only gonna be eating them, but he’ll also be able to see how they’re actually made. If not for anything, for the sake of our son. You can do this, can’t you, my love?”

David remained standing there for what felt like hours, thinking and trying to understand the whole thing. He knew Jim was right. Being part of a company like that wasn’t only gonna be beneficial to him as a businessman but as a father as well. He knew very well how much his son loved chocolates.

“Alright!” He raised his hands like he was surrendering. “I’ll attend the party, but I am not gonna be able to spend a lot of time.”

“Yes!

Claudia acted like she had hit a jackpot.

“I promise that it will be worth every minute you’re gonna spend there.”

She threw her arms around him and pulled him in a tight hug.

“Now come, I have something I need to show you.”

They went to sit and began talking.

***

David and his family arrived in the fancy looking room, sporting expensive looking decors all around the room with beautiful flowers all around. There were tables that had all kinds of foods, except for chocolates. Attending an event for a chocolatier, they’d have expected to see a lot.

Everyone at the party wore a new dress or suit that made them look like kings and queen. David wore a black tuxedo that made him look super sexy with his hair gelled and combed backwards. He had his hands coiled with his husband who seemed to be holding him tightly like his life depended on it. He wore a white tuxedo, making them look like a power couple.

They were with Claudia who killed it with a black designer dress with a slit from the thigh, making her look classy. Her hair was curled and her face was graced with makeup. Amber was in attendance and she looked amazing, holding on to Isaac and they looked sexy together.

Elena, the queen of parties was also in attendance with her husband. Cameras were all over them, taking pictures.

As soon as they entered, greetings were being exchanged with other businessmen and women. A sweet melody was drifting through the busy atmosphere and waiters were passing around, serving the guests. David got so nervous that he felt his palms begin to get sweaty and his heart began racing.

Although he wore a smile, deep inside, he knew he wanted to run away from that place. But he had promised and besides, he loved his son so much. He couldn’t wait to break the news that they were part of a chocolate company.

It didn’t take long before Claudia spotted a very handsome looking man who seemed to be in his late 40s or early 50s. He wore a black designer’s suit with a silver-gray shirt inside and black shoes. His well shaven dark hair with gray highlights and a beautiful smile made him look even younger. She didn’t need to be a genius to figure out that he was the man of the night. She had seen a few pics of him. After all, she had done her research. He was busy talking to some people.

With a deep breath, she walked to him.

“Excuse me!” She said with an almost seductive smile. “May I just speak to him for a second?”

The man turned and faced her. She offered her hand and he received it gracefully.

“Finally nice to mee you, Mr. Martinez.” She said happily. “This is one of my happiest moments as a businesswoman.”

“Nice to finally meet the iron lady too.” Gustavo spoke in a deep enticing voice. “I have heard a lot about you.”

“Nice things I presume.” She laughed, a little too loud.

“Of course,” He returned the same energy. “You’re one of the most influential women in the business world of this country, Mrs. Paola. Pretty sure everyone has heard of you. It is a pleasure.” He leaned and kissed her hand.

“The pleasure is all mine.” She chuckled, holding her hands together when he let go. “Then you must know why I am here, Mr. Martinez.”

“Of course.” He nodded. “Would you mind taking a seat with me?”

“Not at all.”

They went to a table and sat, discussing business matters. David and Jim joined them but they didn’t go further before a very beautiful woman took the stage and began talking in the microphone.

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen,” She greeted happily. “Thank you very much for accepting our invitation and being a part of this celebration. We’re very grateful.

To start off the evening, a few words from our President, CEO, and Owner of Juan Martinez Chocolate Hive, Mr. Gustavo Martinez.”

Everyone began clapping as Gustavo rose from his seat and went to the front.

“Thank you everyone, for celebrating our 21^st year anniversary in this business.” He announced. “I started out as a humble cocoa farmer armed with a dream. And now, after millions of chocolates sold and reigning as the number 1 chocolate manufacturing company, not only in this country but the whole continent, I can happily say that we have surpassed our dreams, beyond our wildest expectations.”

Everyone cheered.

“It’s not been easy and I wouldn’t have made it this far alone.” He chuckled, getting a little emotional. “My success would be meaningless without my family. My father who always encouraged me to reach for my dreams.” He chuckled happily. “Unfortunately, he passed on years back but he contributed more to my success than anyone. My wife, who couldn’t be here with me today and my heir, my handsome son, Carlos. I love you so much, son.”

A very handsome man rose from the chair and walked to the front. He looked a lot like Gustavo, just a little darker than him since he was mixed. He had his dark hair in a high fade, his beards well shaven and a beautiful smile on his face. He wore a grey suit that seem to fit him perfectly. Both men and women had their eyes on him.

Reaching the stage, he hugged his father tightly. The hug didn’t take too long and he went back to his seat.

“This day isn’t just a happy day for me because I am celebrating the 21^st Anniversary of my company…” He continued. “…it is a happy day because along with announcing our company expansion in this country, we’re also launching a new chocolate, a new brand and something that I can say has been created with blood and sweat.”

He gestured and a number of waiters walked in the room with trolleys on which there were chocolates in glass. The bar looked very beautiful, neither too dark nor light. They had different colors, some brown and white, others brown and black and others all brown. As the trolleys moved, the aroma that filled the room made everyone’s mouth water and if they couldn’t see it with their own eyes, they’d have mistaken it for perfume.

“Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce to you, one of the best chocolates this company has produced.” He paused and turned, pointing to a wall. “Allow me to introduce to you, Leah!”

As soon as he spoke, a huge banner appeared on the screen with the words “LEAH” on it. Everyone began clapping loudly and they stood up, even becoming louder. The picture had a lot of chocolates with a happy looking child.

“This chocolate is very unique and very special.” Gustavo continued.

As he spoke, the waiters began serving the guests and everyone that tasted it couldn’t help but moan. The chocolate was truly unique, one of the best they had tasted. The sweet taste of the chocolate felt like heaven. It danced all over their taste buds.

“I don’t have much to say but I’ll allow the creator of this brand to give you all the information.” He added. “This person has been in my life for a few years but it feels like he’s been with me my whole life. Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to welcome the maker of this beautiful chocolate and senior Vice president for operations.”

Everyone began cheering. They were all looking around to see who the person was but there was no sign of him. Few seconds passed and then a minute but there was no one going to the stage. Everyone stopped clapping and began talking among themselves, wondering why there was no one going on the stage.

Gustavo was confused because he was so sure that the VP was at the event.

“I… I am so sorry ladies and gentlemen.” He announced. “It seems like he’s not here yet. So…”

Before he could finish his sentence, a man was seen hurrying towards the stage. He wore a sky-blue shirt with a black skinny jean and black sneakers. He had his long pitch-black hair with golden highlights tied in a sleeked back ponytail.

He reached the stage and gave a quick hug to Gustavo before he whispered something to him. No one saw the young man’s face as he had his back to them. Gustavo smiled and went back to the microphone.

“Sorry about that, ladies and gentlemen.” He apologized with a smile. “Allow me to introduce to you, the producer of Leah, Mr. Benjamin Henandez.”

The moment he said that, the young man rushed to the microphone and smiled, revealing his face to everyone. They all began clapping loudly, not just because of the chocolates but because he was gorgeous. He had a beautiful smile on his face, one people rarely saw.

But not everyone was clapping. There was Elena was staring at the young man like she had seen a ghost, a strange feeling washing over her. She felt like her heart was about to explode out of her chest, her terror making it impossible for her to breath.

‘How could this be possible?’ She thought as her heart raced, failing to control her quivering palms, her eyes wide with panic. ‘No! This cannot be happening. I am pretty sure he died.’

She robotically moved her eyes to her husband who was staring at Ben. All the noises were muffled as suddenly, a cloud of sadness descended on him. He felt a sharp pain in his chest that he couldn’t describe and thumping sound in his ears.

‘You’re not my son.’ His voice echoed. ‘From now on, I’ll only concentrate on Jim just like I should have from the very beginning.’

Five years, he had been feeling horrible for five years. Seeing his son again brought a lot of emotions and regrets to him.

Claudia could have sworn she was dreaming of that moment, a nightmare. She could have bet her life that she was dreaming because from what she knew, Ben died years ago. So it was not possible that he survived. She was paralyzed to the spot, the menacing aura holding her in a tightening grip.

Jim felt a cold wave embalm him as the hairs rose on the back of his neck and his mouth ran dry. The color quickly drained from his face at the mere sight of the man he had come to hate more than anything. He could no longer control his hands; they were shaking in an odd trembling rhythm.

He took a quick glance at his husband and noticed that he was just looking the say he had been. That was good, right? There was no reaction. He needed to keep it cool or there was gonna be trouble.

“Thank you so much!” The man spoke happily.

David felt his heart hammer in his chest when he heard that voice, a very familiar voice. His mind took him to the man he had been following at the restaurant. His voice sounded so familiar. He stared at the man like he was trying to read him, tracing his beautiful face. There was a lot going on in his brain, sparks desperately trying to connect dots.

“Chocolate!” The man chuckled. “Everybody loves chocolates and it has various flavors, sweet, sometimes with a hint of bitterness. Bite into a chocolate and it may carry a surprise. Chocolate has become a major part of our lives.

It’s rich flavors bring joy when we’re sad. When we’re in love, we give chocolate so we can express just how we feel. These are my favorites, chocolates and love, as sweet as the love between parents and their children.”

His face got stern and he took a harsh breath. He knew that he was getting a little emotional.

“I never for once thought I’d know how to make chocolates or even be launching a brand.” He added. “I always wanted to be an interior designer. It was a very big dream of mine but I learned along the way that something that you loved a lot can also be a reminder of your pain.”

There were tears building in his eyes.

“Chocolates entered during the darkest moment of my life, when I was broken and without hope.” He sniveled. “I had to bury myself in making something that I have never tried before. It made a little happy and seeing how happy it made people that ate them, I was reminded of someone that I had lost. Seeing how happy kids were when they ate chocolate, I was reminded of how happy I would have loved to see her.

After she passed away, I tried to fill in the emptiness that she left in my life.

Slowly I began to recover and I wanted to make something that would remind me of her. Leah isn’t just a brand to me; it is everything because this name belongs to two of the most important people in my life. Sadly, they could not be with me tonight but I know that wherever they are, they are watching over me.”

A tear went down his cheek but he quickly rubbed it.

“What I have realized is that life can be like chocolate, it can be sweet. But it can also be bitter. And usually, what it brings may just surprise you. Thank you so much to everyone that attended this event and I sure hope that this brand will be another achievement for this company. Thanks.”

With those words, Ben ended his speech. He moved from the stage and was welcome by Carlos that hugged him tightly. People were clapping but his attention was on Carlos that had been nothing but sweet.

“That was brave of you, Ben.” Carlos said, kissing his cheek. “I am so proud of you.”

Meanwhile, David couldn’t keep his eyes off the boy. He was just so beautiful and he gave him this feeling of familiarity that he couldn’t put his finger on. First his voice sounded too familiar and it gave him a sense that he knew him. But he couldn’t understand from where.

“David!” Claudia smiled sheepishly, placing her hand on his shoulder. “Are you okay?”

Claudia was really hoping that David didn’t recognize Ben or things were gonna go haywire.

“Yeah!” He said, his eyes still glued on the boy that was leaving with the other guy. “I am okay.”

Jim was awfully quiet, very scared.

“Maybe… maybe we can leave.” He stuttered. “After all, you said you wanted to leave, right?”

“Yeah…” Claudia chuckled nervously. “I agree. You might need some rest.”

David glanced at his mother, getting surprised at how tense she looked.

“Are you okay?” He asked, a frown appearing on his face. “You look as if you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Err… yeah!” She chuckled nervously. “I just feel a little hot. Maybe I need some air. We can go if you want, right now.” She was hoping he was gonna agree.

“No!” He shook his head, surprising everyone. “We are here to talk business, mom. I made up my mind to do what I can in order to make my son happy. We can stay.”

Funny thing was that he was not feeling nervous anymore. He was still confused and had a lot of questions but now he wanted to stay. Claudia eyed Elena and the both of them couldn’t hide their fear. Jim was nervous but Amber had a grin on her face. She could tell her brother felt something.

“Mrs. Paola, I hope I didn’t make you wait for too long.” They heard a voice.

It was Gustavo and he was coming towards them with a smile on his face.

“No!” She chuckled nervously, shaking her head. “You’re a very busy man and I understand. In fact, I would understand if you wouldn’t want to discuss business and…”

“Why?” He laughed, shaking his head. “Mrs. Paola, you’re a big businesswoman and your company is of high reputation. I think it’s only fair that I listen to what you have to say. Don’t you think?”

Claudia smiled, nodding. She knew she had to get her son out of there.

“Dad?”

Gustavo looked in the direction of the voice and saw his son coming towards him. He was busy chatting with Ben and they both seemed so happy, not even paying attention to where they were going.

“Yeah!” Gustavo smiled. “I believe I introduced my son. His name is Carlos. But this right here is the brains behind this brand and like I said, Senior Vice president for Operations, Ben.”

With a smile, Ben raised his face to get the surprise of his life. His eyes landed straight into the face of the man that was staring at him as if he was staring into his soul. There was a delicious moment where Ben’s face washed blank with confusion, like his brain cogs couldn’t turn fast enough to take in the information from his wide eyes. Every muscle of his body just froze.

‘Why now?’

To be continued…