Her Alpha CEO

“Sh*t. Sorry… was that because of, you know?”

“You cheating on me with her?” Nina smiled wryly and shook her head. “It was the start of it, but then when I tried to make amends, she wasn’t interested. So I’ve sort of left it. It’s okay though. I never really got on with my sister, you know that.”

“Yeah, sure. What you guys had in common was books and writing. Other than that, you fought all the time.”

“Exactly.”

“Still, I’m sorry for the way things ended between us, Nina. You deserved better. You deserve better.”

Nina shrugged her shoulders. “Yeah, well. That’s life I guess.”

“So, are you single?”

“Not really. It’s a bit complicated at the moment though. Not quite sure where we are at the moment.”

“Oh? Sounds messy.”

“No, not messy. Just the start of something. You always seem to come back into my life right around when things are getting interesting.”

“Yeah, well I always did like intrigue. It makes things fun. Life’s too boring without it.”

“I guess so. So when did you see Sabrina last?”

“Oh, about six months ago. We bumped into each other at a convention. She’s looking good. I got her number, if you want it?”

“Sure, thanks. I’ll get it from you later. She changed it two years ago, and I haven’t been able to get hold of her since.”

“She told me. Said she lost her phone. Bit silly if you ask me.”

Nina chose not to remind him of how many phones he’d lost over the years, grateful when their food arrived. They ate in silence for a few moments.

“So, what are you doing with yourself now?” Nina looked up at Michael between bites.

“I’m working for myself. Sort of between jobs at the moment, but I have some gigs lined up. My art is proving to be popular with certain galleries and I end up selling a painting or two every couple months. It’s enough to tide me over until I can get more regular work. I mostly do contracting.”

“So you’re actually doing something with your painting now? That’s great!” Nina smiled at him and Michael nodded.

“Yeah, I took what you said seriously. Did some art courses, went to Europe for a year. It was fun. Then Dad died and I had to come back, but the family business wasn’t really for me. Never was an office type.”

Nina laughed, “I don’t think any of us were office types. I’m surprised to hear Sabrina is working as a PA. She hated admin. Sorry to hear about your dad.”

“Thanks. And yeah, if you ask me, I think she’s a bit more than a PA…”

Michael trailed off at the look in Nina’s eyes.

“Uh, anyway, how’s your food?”

“It’s great, thanks. They make good lamb here.”

“Yeah they do…”

There was silence, both of them fumbling for things to say until Michael got the nerve to speak again.

“So, do you fancy maybe going back to your place after this? Having a cup of coffee?”

“No, Michael. It’s been nice to catch up and stuff, but I don’t think it’s a good idea for us to see each other again.”

“Why not?” He looked affronted.

“Because I’ve moved on with my life now. I’m seeing someone else, and I really like him. I don’t want to less it up by getting involved with my ex.”

“Who said anything about getting involved?”

“I’m not someone you can scratch an itch with Michael. I happen to take commitment very seriously and I’ve committed to Brian. So thanks for dinner, but I think it would be best if we don’t meet again.”

She waved her hand for the waitress, who appeared a moment later.

“I’d like to take this away please, and you can bring us the bill.”

“Oh now, wait a minute Nina. There’s no need to cut our evening short. I’m sorry if I was a bit forward, but you know me. I’ve always gone out for what I want, and I’ve never really let anyone or anything stand in my way.”

“Oh, I remember that all too well, Michael and I don’t really fancy being the person you go after next. I’ve made a life for myself now and I don’t intend to change it. Please get the bill. I’ll pay for my meal and be on my way.”

“Now you’re just being offensive, Nina. You don’t have to pay for your meal. I’ll cover it. And take you home.”

Nina sat back in her chair. She wasn’t afraid of Michael. He was a sleazebag, but harmless otherwise. It was a pity, because he was actually really good looking, and once upon a time, she’d been able to imagine creating a life with him.

Now, it seemed that wouldn’t have been a good idea, and she was grateful for the reprieve she’d been granted, even if it had led to an estrangement with her sister.

“All right, thanks Michael.” She decided it would be better to be gracious in her dismissal of the man – after all, he was offering to buy her dinner and it had been a good meal, even if a bit uncomfortable in terms of conversation.

She couldn’t help comparing their evening with the two evenings she’d spent in Brian’s company. Unfortunately for Michael, his personality didn’t even begin to compare to the way Brian made her feel, and she had to wonder if it was because of their history, or if Brian was just an amazing man.

She decided she would wait to see how he was on their date on Wednesday before making up her mind about him. After all, he still had to make up for ignoring her for two days.

When Michael dropped her at her house half an hour later, she took her sister’s number from him and thanked him again for the meal. He leaned over to kiss her, but she held up her hand and shook her head.

“Dinner was nice, Michael, but I’ve already said I’m not interested. Take care of yourself. Goodbye.” She climbed out of the car and shut the door behind her, rolling her eyes when Michael revealed his childish temper by revving the car and speeding away.

She was making her way up the drive when Mrs. Beechley popped her head over the fence.

“Was that young Michael Jones?”

“Holy cow, Mrs. Beechley! You nearly gave me a heart attack!”

“Best you stay away from that young man, Nina Jacobs. He stole one of my roses this evening, I was watching from the window. Up to no good, I bet. Just like always.”

Nina sighed. “Of course, Mrs. Beechley. Goodnight.”