As soon as the car shifted to park, the security gaurds came rushing up, opening the door for Xavier to come out. However, just as the man started going to the other side to open the passenger door, Xavier raised his hand to stop him.
"I'll take care of it." Xavier said, buttoning up his coat. "Take care of the luggage in the trunk." He walked briskly around the car before opening the passenger door.
There, nestled in the seat of Xavier's SUV, was a sleeping Raine, curled into a ball on the leather seats. The faint lights of the driveway fell upon her innocent face, making her glow like an angel. Her hair was scattered behind her head and her arms were wrapped around her body in hopes of trapping in the warmth.
She had fallen asleep an hour ago and Xavier did not have the heart to wake her up from her precious slumber state, especially when he knew about her lack of sleep the previous night. In such circumstances, dropping her off at Mike's apartment in the middle of the night, didn't suit well with him, so instead, he brought her over to his house.
Carefully, he scooped the sleeping beauty into his arms, securing her perfectly before kicking the door shut. Gently, he blew air on her face blowing a strand of hair away from her gorgeous brown eyes that were currently hibernating behind her eyelids.
The guards held the door open for Xavier as he climbed up the stairs and brought her into his lavish mansion. Climbing the marble steps of his grand staircase, he made his way into one of the guest rooms that was besides his bedroom.
The bed was adorned in navy blue satin sheets, while the rest of the room had a gray hue to it. Xavier carried Raine in softly, afraid to wake her up before gently placing her onto the comfort of the bed. Tugging the shoes off of her delicate feet, Xavier pulled the covers over her body, wrapping her in a bundle of warm.
He tucked the loose bits of hair behind her ears and grazed the tips of his fingers over her soft pink cheeks. His eyes seemed to stay fixed on her sleeping figure before he finally decided to leave the room and get some rest himself.
* * *
"Raine?" Xavier asked, rubbing his eyes as he walked into the kitchen still dressed in gray sweatpants and a loose white v-neck, that revealed his toned chest.
After driving for endless hours the day before, Xavier had been exhausted and slept in later then he had expected. However, when his eyes had finally pried open, his thoughts zoomed right over to Raine. Hastily getting out of bed, Xavier had made his way to the guest room, confused when he found an empty bed and a missing Raine.
"Morning Xavier!" Raine replied cheerfully. She was still in the clothes from the day before but her hair was pulled up in a bun that sat on the top of her head. An apron was pulled around her waist as she floated around the luxurious kitchen.
"Good morning." Xavier yawned. "What are you doing here?"
"Oh, I was up early and thought about cooking breakfast."
Xavier raked his hair with his fingers as he sat on the stool at the island. "Raine, you could've called the chef. You don't need to worry about it."
"I know. But I wanted to, you know? As a thanks." Raine said shyly.
"Thanks?" Xavier muttered in confusion.
"Well yeah. For the weekend. I had fun." Raine spoke honestly, her eyes gleaming.
"Me too." Xavier smiled genuinely. "But you don't have to say thanks. Really."
"But I wanted to." Raine pouted sweetly. "Now go get dressed, breakfast will be ready soon." She ordered, playfully.
A chuckle escaped Xavier's lips before he stood up and raised his hands in surrender. "Ok Ma'am." He said before heading out the room and letting Raine make magic with flavors.
She shuffled around the kitchen, searching the pantry and mixing spices to create a fusion of unique flavors which hopefully, Xavier would like. After a hour of labor, her masterpiece was finally done.
Grabbing the mittens from a drawer, Raine pulled out a freshly baked, steaming cake and set it carefully on the quartz countertop. Rushing over to a pot simmering on the stove, she stirred the contents one last time, before drizzling them on the cake, which was emitted a wonderful aroma.
"Now what have we got here?" Xavier asked, walking into the dining room, dressed in a freshly pressed white dress shirt and navy blue pants. A gray tie was hanging from his neck, his hands fumbling to tie it.
"A freshly baked spiced apple loaf with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce." Raine said proudly.
"Mmmm..." Xavier sniffed in. "That smells absolutely divine."
"I hope it tastes just as good too." Raine said slightly nervously.
"I have no doubts about that." Xavier whispered, stepping closer to Raine so that they were only inches apart.
Raine reached out for his tie, straightening it out and patting it down while Xavier's eyes remained fully focused on her face. A slight blush covered her cheeks as she turned back around, slicing the loaf and setting in on a plate for Xavier to taste.
"Well, I hope you enjoy that!" Raine said, handing Xavier the plate. "Anyways, I have to go back home so I can get dressed and show up to work on time. Would you mind sending anyone to drop me back home?"
Xavier paused, thinking for a second before smiling. "Why don't you join me for breakfast. Once we're done, I'll take you to the apartment and you can get ready. Then we can go to work together." He suggested.
"Umm....sure. But only if it isn't an inconvenience for you."
"Anything concerning you, would never be an inconvenience." Xavier said honestly.
"If you say so." Raine smiled softly. Cutting out a piece for herself, she joined Xavier for a breakfast full of laughs and giggles as they recalled memories from their weekend adventure.
* * *
"Raine!?" Came a voice as soon as she set foot inside of the apartment. "Where on earth did you go?!"
After their breakfast together, Xavier had brought Raine over to Mike's apartment so she could get ready for work. And although Raine had insisted several times for Xavier to come up with her, he refused politely, waiting at the base of the apartment while she got dressed.
"Hey Mike." Raine smiled as she noticed her friend lounging on the couch with an Xbox controller in his hands. "I left you a note, right?"
"Yeah but that was two days ago!" Mike complained. "You said you'd be back within a day."
"I'm so sorry. Actually Xavier had a charity event to go to, somewhere in Upstate New York and he suggested that we drive." She explained. "And let's just say that drive took forever!"
"Really? How was the event?" Mike asked curiously. "And where did you guys stay?"
"The event was quiet amazing in my opinion, but I'm sure Xavier would beg to differ." Raine as she tossed herself onto the couch beside Mike. "We stayed at Xavier's cabin in the woods for the night."
"I see...." Mike speculated.
"We actually got back here last night, around midnight. But I kinda fell asleep in the car so Xavier just took me back to his place."
"Oh..." Mike sat quietly for a couple of seconds before getting off the couch. "Come on, I guess we can have breakfast together." He said, holding a hand out for Raine.
Raine took his hand, bringing herself off the couch before politely refusing his offer. "I wish I could, but I really can't. I'm running late and Xavier is waiting downstairs for me. We have to get going, I just came here to get ready."
"Ah. Ok then go get ready. Wouldn't want your boss to get mad at you now, would we?" Mike said with clear annoyance evident in his voice.
"So how was your weekend?" Raine asked, frowning at his change in behavior at the mention of Xavier's name.
"Crazy." Mike said as he run his fingers through his hair. "Apparently the police officers found a lead on the guy that trashed the cafe."
"Really?! Who is he?!" Raine asked eagerly.
"As of now, no one really knows. But I guess the Big Bad Thorn came in hardy after all."
"The Big Bad Thorn?"
"Xavier." Mike said as Raine laughed. "He was right about the security cameras. When the cops took a look at their footage, they found a guy lurking around the streets the same night as the vandalizing happened. In fact, the guy was seen walking towards the direction of the cafe and and running back to wherever he came from." Mike explained. "They're trying to find out more about this guy and see if they can identify him soon."
"Wow. I hope they find out who exactly it is soon." Raine said. "I'll probably call Daisy later today. How is she doing by the way?"
"Alright I guess. She was really attached to that cafe and every times she goes there, she just feels horrible."
"I bet." Raine nodded. She knew exactly how much Daisy loved that cafe and it was heartbreaking to see it torn up the way it was.
"I'm worried about her." Mike said honestly.
"She's a strong girl Mike. I know you're worried but you shouldn't be. And plus, the insurance will handle all of the cost of redoing the cafe so it shouldn't be too hectic." Raine assured.
"It's not that Raine." Mike cleared out. "You remember that message on the wall? What if Daisy's in danger? Whoever did that, did it as some form of revenge."
It was clear from Mike's expression at he was worried and scared. And why wouldn't he be, after all? Daisy had become such a big part of Mike's life and he cared for her more then anyone could imagine.
"I completely forgot about that." Raine confessed. "Did you try asking Daisy one more time if she suspected anyone?"
"I did. But every time I ask her, she keeps on saying she has no clue." Mike replied. "There is security at her home right now, which makes it all a little less scary but it doesn't eliminate the problem." Mike said fist pumping himself. "The only way to escape this is by finding out who that guy was."
"You're right." Raine nodded.
"Anyways, you should head out. The Big Bad Thorn is waiting for you Rainy." Mike said, ruffling Raine's hair.
"Thanks for reminding me Mikey!" Raine said as she dashed to her room, rushing to get ready as Mike laughed.
* * *
"Ok Xavier, all of your meeting for tomorrow have been confirmed and the files you've asked for have been requested from the Board of Directors for tomorrow press conference." Raine notified as she walking into Xavier's office.
"That's perfect. Thank you Raine." Xavier said, a smile on his face despite the long and hectic day at work.
"No problem. Anything else I can do for you?"
"Yes, in fact. I have two things." Xavier stated, a smirk playing on his lips.
"Ok?"
"First of all, the press conference tomorrow is going to be vital for our shareholders and therefore I need you to triple check for all of the arrangements." Xavier said in a serious voice. Everyone at the company had been preparing for this press conference and it was critical that everything go smoothly to secure domination in the shock market.
"Not a problem at all. I've gone through the arrangements earlier today and I will do that same tomorrow morning, as well as prior to the conference itself." Raine said, noting down a reminder for her to go back once more and check everything out before the conference itself.
"That's just what I wanted to hear." Xavier smiled.
"And what's the second thing you wanted me to do?"
Xavier rolled his chair back, standing up while buttoning up his coat. "Come with me. I have a place to show you."
"Where?" Raine asked in confusion.
Xavier walked up to Raine before leaning in by her ear. "It's a surprise." He whispered, causing Raine's heart to beat faster.
Taking a step back, Xavier encased her delicate hands into his own and guided her to the door. They headed down the elevator and into the main lobby of the company where other employees paused briefly, taking a moment to stare at their boss who was striding through the floor. The workers didn't miss the intertwined fingers of the CEO and his PA and shot glances towards Raine.
"Mr. Thorn, ready to leave?" Jordon confirmed as Xavier stepped out the tall glass doors. "Shall I take the car out for you?"
"Yes, but I'll be driving on my own." Xavier stated, glancing down at Raine who was shivering slightly as the cool breeze hit her bare arms. Noticing this, he tugged her hand, pulling her closer to himself, and wrapped an arm around her shoulders.
A pink glow grew on her face as she felt warmth radiating off Xavier's body, warming her up on the chilly winter night.
It wasn't long before Xavier's black sedan was rolled in front of the duo. The two of them got inside, Xavier taking control of driver seat, while Raine sat patiently besides him.
"So are you going to tell me where we're going?" Raine asked as they passed cars on the freeway, treading through traffic.
"Nope." Xavier stated, grinning like a child when he noticed a pouting Raine. "You'll have to wait and see for yourself."
Raine rolled her eyes, sitting silently for the rest of the ride while trying to figure out where Xavier was taking, more like kidnapping, Raine off to. After a brief drive, Xavier turned into the parking lot of a large high-rise, stopping the car at the entrance and tossing the keys to the valet parking men.
Holding a hand out for her, Xavier helped Raine get out of the car and walked with her up to the building.
"Are we meeting someone?" Raine asked in confusion as they entered the elevator and headed up to the top floor of the building.
"More like something." Xavier muttered, only causing Raine's confusion to grow.
A brief minute later, the doors slid open onto the seventh floor of the high-rise. Xavier stepped out, Raine's hand still within his hold as he strode down the halls, towards the last door on the wing.
Pulling a key out of the inside of the coat, he inserted it into the lock, opening the door before turning to Raine and gesturing her to go inside.
The door opened up to a stunning apartment that overlooked the entire city. The floor to ceiling lined up against the back wall, provided for the most exquisite views of New York that Raine had never before seen. The focal point of the room was the large wood burning fireplace encrusted in white marble that stood up proudly in the center of the room. On one side was a black sofa set, that perfectly matched with the black and white aesthetics of the apartment. On the other side of the room was a large kitchen, equipped with black cabinets, white marble countertops, and gold accents that were spread throughout the area.
Dispute the fact that the apartment was modern and contemporary, it still felt homey and warm as Raine stepped inside, observing each of it's unique feathers. Xavier followed silent behind her, his eyes focusing on Raine's reaction instead of the apartment itself.
"Like it?" Xavier asked.
"Of course! It's absolutely beautiful. Who lives here? Are we meeting someone?" Raine asked with excitement.
"You do." Xavier smiled.
"I do what?" Raine said scrunching her eyebrows together in confusion.
"Well not yet, but from today you will." Xavier clarified. "Raine, this apartment is officially yours." He said with a grin, watching Raine's eyes grow big.
"What?!" Raine said in shock.
"I told you that my company would provide you with living arrangements." Xavier began. " Well, this is it." He said, gesturing to the room in which they were standing.
"You're joking right? This is beyond anything I could possibly afford." Raine said overwhelmed.
"Raine, I'm serious. It's both my and my company's responsibility to make sure you have an adequate place to stay and I think this is just the place. There is 24 hours security at the entrance of the building and it's close to both my house and the company. I think you'll be very comfortable here, as well as safe."
"Xavier, I don't need such a grand place to live in. Honestly, this is way to much."
"No it's not." Xavier refuted. "You deserve this Raine. You work hard and this is how hardwork pays off."
"But--"
"Raine, I've purchased this apartment for you and it is my final decision as your boss to conclude that you will be living her from now on, and that this is your official home."Â Xavier stated, leaving no room for arguments.
"Thank you." Raine said softly. "Thank you so much Xavier! I don't even know where I would be without you."
"You don't need to know where you'd be without me cause I'm not leaving you Raine. I promised I'd always be there, right?"
"Thank you." Raine whispered, a tear trailing down her face which was cupped with Xavier's hands.
Quickly, Xavier padded the tear away with the tip of his figures. Their eyes connected with each other, their hearts beating in sync while their breaths hitched.
The distance between them slowly began to dissolve away as both of them found themselves leaning into each other, their lips only a centimeter away, yearned for each other's touch.
And just as they were about to meet and close the distance between them, the blaring noice of Xavier's phone broke them out of their trance.
Xavier's eyes widened and Raine pushed herself away from the comfort of his arms. Spellbound, Xavier helplessly searched the pockets of his pants to pull out the cell phone that had tarnished a moment which he has only dreamt of in the best of dreams.
"Hello." He gritted out, smacking the phone to his ears as Raine avoided eye contact. "This better be important."
Xavier glared at the ground while he pressed his phone against his ears and listened to the caller with disinterested. Meanwhile, Raine's eyes were glued to anything but Xavier while her heart thumped loudly again her chest. The scene of just seconds before, replying in her head.
What would have happened, had Xavier not received a call?
"I'll look into it." Xavier spoke, his voice still harsh. "Bye."
Turning the phone off in haste, Xavier shoved it back into his pocket before looking up at Raine, whose cheeks were flushed pink.
"I.... sorry about that." Xavier said with a hint of embarrassment. "It was Jordon actually."
"Oh." Raine said, barely looking into Xavier's pristine blue eyes. "Um... Is everything alright?" She asked awkwardly.
"No. I mean yes! Everything is JUST fine." Xavier said glaring at the ground before tucking his hands into the pockets of his pants.
"So the apartment...." Raine trailed off.
Xavier took a deep breath, closing his eyes and clearing his mind before looking back at Raine. "The apartment is your's Raine. Officially. The rent will be taken care of by the company and you are free to move in as soon as you'd like."
"Thank you Xavier. This is really more than I could ever wish for."
"You don't have to thank me Raine. This is just a perk of being an employee at Thorn Inc."
"Well it's a sweet perk, I guess." Raine said shrugging.
"When would you like to move in?"
"I don't know. I guess I should break the news to Mike first and then I guess shift all of my belongings?"
"So by tomorrow right?" Xavier asked.
"I guess."
"Great! I'll come with you to Mike's place and we can move all of your belongings together."
"That won't be necessary Xavier. You've already done a lot of me. I can just tell Mike to help me out. I'm sure he'd be down for it."
"I insist Raine." Xavier pressed. "Let me help you."
"Fine." Raine groaned sweetly. "If you want to help this much, I guess you can!"
Xavier smiled at Raine before turning to look around the apartment. He slipped his fingers into his coat, pulling out something before reaching out to take a hold of Raine's hand. Softly, he set a pair of shiny silver keys into her palms, his eyes not leaving her's for even a second.
"I believe these are yours." His whispered.
______________________
A/N: Hello fellow readers! So what'd you think? Was Xavier really about to KISS Raine?? Also, anyone have any suggestions for a ship name for our characters?? Can't think of anything!
Question of the day: What's your favorite song lyrics??
Mine is, "When people pin me as a clown, you behave as though I'm wearing a crown." From the song Anchor my Mindy Gledhill! Anyone hear this song before?
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