Chapter 1
Antonia sighed as she opened the door to City Oaks magazine office and entered the building. She wasn't sure how focused she would be today and hoped nothing important would arise. She had dark circles under her eyes and hoped the many layers of concealer disguised them. Her mission was to walk to her desk as quickly as possible, avoiding her work colleagues as she didn't want to answer any questions. She felt humiliated enough as it was.
Her weekend started off full of promise and one she was looking forward to for weeks. A works night out at a local business ceremony where the magazine was nominated for an award. It was held in a beautiful old ballroom; black tie event and Antonia wore a stunning pale blue satin gown. Her finance, Edward escorted her and was by her side most of the evening. Until he knocked back so many free drinks before making a spectacle of himself and Antonia. Being brash, he stood up on one of the neatly covered tables, spilling several drinks in the process and announced to the entire room that he could not marry Antonia as he had fallen out of love with the workaholic and had been having an affair with someone much younger for months. He even had the cheek to say his mistress was much better in bed! Antonia was mortified and was subjected to many sympathetic looks. She couldn't wait to head to the nearest exit, climb into a taxi and eat a tub of ice cream from the freezer. How she was going to face her colleagues she did not know.
She almost made it to her desk. If only she hadn't tripped over the briefcase left carelessly in the corridor. She let out a gasp, louder than she meant to and everyone once again was staring at her. Smiling bravely, Antonia said whoops and sat down at her desk and quickly switched on her computer avoiding eye contact with anyone around her.
"Antonia, I'd like a word with you in my office" Her editor, Janice Thomas said as she walked by. Antonia swallowed hard and took a deep breath. Time to face the music. She stood up, making sure her crisp white blouse was tucked into her black pencil skirt and braced herself to follow her boss into the office. She knew people were whispering about her.
“Janice, I'm so sorry” Antonia began before being cut off. Janice motioned for her to sit down in the chair opposite her desk. Antonia sat, crossing her legs, her hands placed upon her lap, willing her nerves to settle down.
“Oh, my dear girl. Sorry?! You have nothing to be sorry for!” Janice exclaimed “Your well shot of him and you deserve much better.” Janice waved her hand in the air as if that would make everything better. “Everyone will forget in a day or two so pay no attention to the gossips. Your one of my best writers so I need you to focus.” She stared her straight in the eyes.
“Uh okay” Antonia stammered as she wasn't expecting that to come from her boss. Her boss never showed emotion, always appearing professional, no matter what the situation.
“I actually wanted to see you because we have someone new starting today and I want you to show him around.” Janice walked over to the filing cabinet and opened a drawer.
“That’s today?” Antonia asked, remembering some of the women had been talking about a new reporter. Rumour was he was some male model. It was starting to make sense why some of her work friends were dressed up to the nines.
“Yes, and I'd like him to shadow you this week so he can get familiar with the way we operate.”
“Of course,”. Antonia stood up to go, wondering why Janice had chosen her to train the new reporter.
“One more thing Antonia” Janice paused, “Off the record, Nathaniel is something of a smooth talker so don't stand for any nonsense. He is good at his job though and comes highly recommended.”
“You don't need to worry Janice. I've sworn off men and after Edward I can certainly handle the likes of Russ.” Antonia sighed, “Men are too much trouble, and you will be happy to hear I plan on throwing myself into my work for a very long time.”
“Good girl. You've got the making on an editor.” Janice pulled out a file, slamming the drawer closed. “I won't be here forever; I plan on retiring in around five years’ time. Would you be willing to take more on, learn the ropes and I will recommend you for editor?”
Antonia felt her mouth open wide. “Yes!” Antonia said stunned. “I'd love to. Thank you for an amazing opportunity!” Suddenly feeling as though a weight had been lifted from her heart.
“You deserve it. Like I said, you’re a hard worker. Now go and find Nathaniel. I imagine he is somewhere where those ladies are.” Janice glanced through her internal office window, frowning at the crowd gathering. She shook her head “I do hope he won't be too much of a distraction for them. We need to get this issue ready to publish.”
Antonia left the office feeling much lighter and happier. She knew Janice was right and the office gossips would find something else to talk about sooner or later and maybe Nathaniel would be enough to distract them.
Wow, he was model material. She thought as she saw him. He was stood, arms folded across his broad chest, his blue eyes gleaming as he was telling some joke. His smile spread across his face as laughter filled the air. He was good looking, but something told Antonia he knew it. She knew those types and was glad she had sworn off men. Not that he would be interested in her anyway. Those types always went for the glamorous women. What was it that Edward once told her? Oh yes that she was a sensible plain Jane.
“Nathaniel?” She asked, ignoring the whispers and nudges.
“Why, hello Miss?” He said, turning around to see who the voice belonged to. He smiled, waiting for her reply
“Hammond, Antonia Hammond.” She said, offering her hand to shake it. Instead, he took her hand and kissed it much to her embarrassment. She pulled her hand away quickly.
“Antonia, that's a very pretty name.” He repeated her name slowly.
“Thank you,” she said, not showing any emotion. “Can you come with me please. I've been asked to show you around. She was aware people were discussing her and Edward, a few not even bothering to lower their voices.
“I would love you to show me the place.” His face lit up. “Not just the office either”, he said following her to get desk. “Are you free for a drink later?”
“No.” Antonia said a little too sharply. “Now let me begin with briefing you on the latest issue.” She glanced around, raising an eyebrow when she saw her female colleagues hovering near her workspace. She wondered if he realised the effect he was having on these women.
“Sorry”, he apologised, reading her thoughts “what can you do when you look like me?” He grinned, his smile faltering when he saw Antonia wasn’t impressed.
“You are sure of yourself, aren’t you?” Antonia spoke in a low voice, not wanting to draw any more attention to herself.
“Well, not always” Nathaniel’s voice wavered. “I have to be thankful of my looks. I modelled my way through university so no huge debts, but it isn't all good” He admitted.
“Oh, come on! What isn't good about being Mr Popular?” She tilted her head to one side, staring him straight in the eyes.
“Well, women throw themselves at me because of how I look. They aren't interested in the person I am” Nathaniel told her, folding his arms. He wasn’t sure what to make of Antonia. He hadn’t met anyone like her before, usually he smiled, they giggled and that was it. He felt like wanted to make a good impression on this woman in front of him.
“And who are you, Nathaniel?”
“Please, call me Nate.” He noticed her face was beginning to soften. “Well,” He said, leaning towards her ear so he could whisper “In order for you to know that Miss Hammond, you shall have to get to know me.”
“I'm sorry to have to tell you this, as I'm quite sure you aren't used to hearing it, but I have no interest in dating, or anything else for that matter.” Wanting to put him straight in case he had any ideas.
“Why?” he asked, intrigued as to why Antonia sounded so adamant.
“Long story and I don't talk about it” She rolled her eyes. “I am sure you will find out anyway from the office gossips” Antonia bent over to retrieve her laptop from its case.
“I want to hear it from you Antonia not the office gossips” Nathaniel said kindly, his voice deep, yet soft. “Its your story and if you want it told, you know where I am”
Antonia looked up at him, he genuinely meant that, she thought. She sighed, “I was in a relationship which ended badly. I'm just going to enjoy life and I don't need to be involved with a guy for that”
“Fair enough.” He shrugged, sitting down on a chair next to her as she loaded up the computer. “I promise not to hit on you. You never know” He winked, “In time we even may become friends. What do you reckon to that idea?”
Antonia laughed. Nathaniel smiled; she had a lovely laugh. “I reckon you had better call me Annie if we are to be friends.”
Antonia spent the morning showing Nate around. He was a fast learner and by lunch time had all the staff eating out of his hand. Even Esther who had a face like thunder most days. Yet here she was laughing and smiling with Nate.
Of course, almost all the women were drooling at the sight of Nate. At 6ft 2 he was tall, handsome with dark thick glossy hair that should only belong on a man in a glossy magazine, he was well built, you could see his biceps beneath his white shirt. It wasn't surprising that Nate worked his way through college modelling.
“Ready for lunch?” Nate asked. “I'm starving. What do you usually do?”
“I usually eat at my desk” Antonia confessed, “although we do have a cafeteria here and there are plenty of cafes nearby if you would rather eat out.”
“Let’s eat out, get out of the office for a bit” He suggested, Antonia must have looked surprised as he reassured her it was just two people who worked together, eating lunch away from the office.
“So,” Nate said, taking a bite of a sandwich, “how long have you worked at the magazine?”
“About three years” Antonia replied, she ordered a pasta salad which looked delicious. She tasted a bite, and it was. “Are you new to the area or just the job?”
"New to the area as well as the job. I'm from London.” He explained, washing down the last of his sandwich with a sip of coke.
“New Oakes must be a big change for you.” She said, referring to the town. A few years ago, the town applied for city status which was denied. Since then, new areas were under development, the town councillors were hoping to be granted City status in the future.
“I wasn't keen on city life” Nate confessed “New Oakes looks a lovely place from what I have seen so far. Do you live in the town or nearby?”
“I live just outside of town, about a fifteen-minute drive depending what traffic is like.” Antonia loved her small cottage on the outskirts of town. She couldn't imagine ever living elsewhere. It was quiet and the views of the countryside were breath-taking, forever changing with the seasons.
“It's half day on Friday, isn't it?” Nate asked
“It is this week. We usually have a half day when the issue is finalised.” She explained. “Some of the staff go out to celebrate”
“You don't?” Nate asked, under the impression that Antonia didn't.
As she shook her head, her high ponytail swept across her face. “I usually head home” She toyed with her pasta before eating another mouthful. “Where did you work previously?”
“I worked as a freelance reporter for one of the magazines in London. It was a small publication, not widely read. A new company took over and fired most of the staff. It happens.” He shrugged. “Besides, I wouldn't have met a new friend today if that never of happened.” Choosing to see the bright side of everything.
Antonia finished her pasta. She admired how laid back he was. She wondered if he was fazed by anything or anyone.
“Nate!” Diana from the office practically purred, walking into the cafe. Her face lit up as soon as she saw Nate. “How lovely to bump into you. How are you finding your first day?” She laughed as though she had made a joke, flashing her perfect straight white teeth. She flicked her hair over her shoulder. Antonia felt she was invisible.
“Good thank you. Antonia has been giving me the tour and showing me the ropes.” Nate leaned across the table, giving her arm a friendly rub.
“Oh, hi Antonia, I didn't see you there,” she giggled, quickly turning her attention back to Nate. “I was just wondering Nate if you would like to come out on Friday? A few of us are going out for some drinks after work to celebrate the new issue.”
“Thank you Diana, that would be cool.”
“Ohhh, how marvellous. Pop your number in here” she rummaged in her bag for her phone. She peered over his shoulder as he tapped his number in and pressed save “Better get back to it.” She beamed. Diana barely left the cafe when Nates phoned buzzed.
“Please tell me that's not Diana already?” Antonia said, taking a sip of coffee.
“Yep” He grinned watching Antonia roll her eyes.
“You know she thinks you are going as her date? She only came in here to speak with you, she left without ordering lunch”
Nates eyes sparkled mischievously. She never said a date. She asked me if I'd like to out on Friday with the others” Antonia shook her head, her tongue in her cheek. “Besides your coming too.”
“Oh no I'm not” Antonia started to protest but Nate wasn’t hearing her.
“You are. I won't take no for an answer” Nate winked at her. “I need one friend there to make sure I don't do anything stupid”
She laughed. “Something tells me you will anyway” Nate nodded his head in agreement
“Please say you will come” He pleaded. “Don’t make me beg”
“Okay” she relented, wondering if she could come up with an excuse not to go nearer the time. Let's get back to work, otherwise no one will be going out on Friday if the magazine isn’t finished on time.
As it happened, the final edits went smoothly, and the magazine was finished ahead of schedule. Gossip about her and Edward died down and Antonia felt herself relax a little. Nate had been looking forward to Friday’s social outing and Antonia didn't have the heart to cancel. He was genuinely looking forward to it.
“Are you ready?” Nate asked, perching on one corner of her desk.
“Almost. I need ten minutes to change out of these work clothes. Can you log me out of the network whilst I pop to ladies?” Antonia asked, realising the office was quieter than usual as staff were already in the bar.
“Sure.” He said, sitting in her seat, his fingers tapping on the keyboard.
Once Antonia was inside the bathroom, she pulled out her outfit from her weekend bag. Her dress was a little creased she noticed, it wasn't too obvious, and it was all she had. She quickly pulled it on, slipping her feet into high heeled court shoes. Removing the band from her hair, she watched it fall loose around her shoulders in the mirror, teasing it with her fingers until she was happy with it. She got out her make up bag, redoing her eyeshadow and applying some eyeliner so her eyes achieved that smoky eye look. Her foundation just needed touching up from this morning, she added blusher and lipstick and she was good to go.
“I'm ready”. She told Nate, who was standing in reception waiting for her, reading one of the magazine excerpts hanging on the wall.
“Antonia, you look beautiful” Nate let out a low whistle.
“Thanks” she said feeling her cheeks turn a shade of pink. “You’re making me blush.”
“I know” he grinned. “It suits you. Seriously Antonia you are stunning. It's making me regret this friend business.”
“She rolled her eyes. I'm off men remember”
“That's too bad Annie” He placed his arm around her shoulder. “Lead the way”
A few moments later Nate was holding the door open to the bar where everyone was gathered. Diane came tottering over in her high stilettos as soon as her eyes clocked Nate.
“You made it” she giggled, her voice a pitch too high. Antonia guessed from the bright red cocktail glass in her hand she already had been drinking. It was only 2 o clock in the afternoon, and she wondered what state she would be in this evening. “I thought you got lost”
“I was waiting for Annie.” Nate draped his arm across Antonia's shoulder not noticing the sour expression on Diana's face. “What are you drinking Annie?”
“Just a diet coke please” she told him, avoiding the glare Diana was giving her. Nate gave her a disapproving look
“I must drive home”
“Annie, you don't have to do anything. You can get a taxi home and tomorrow I will pick you up to fetch your car”
Antonia pursed her lips. She sighed, “a glass of chardonnay please,” she couldn't help smiling when he did a little jig on the spot leading her to the bar.
Antonia relaxed, not sure if it was relief at having survived the week or the glass of wine in her hand. She was chatting to Janice who complimented her on her recent work and was deep in conversation about plans she was making for when she retired.
Nate was flirting with Diana, who was throwing herself at him. He looked like he was enjoying the attention. Antonia glanced over in his direction, he caught her gaze and raised his glass. She told Janice she would catch up with her later, walking to the bar and perched on a stool whilst waiting to be served.
“What can I get you?” The bar tender asked,
“Another chardonnay please.” She said, rummaging through her bag for her purse.
“It's Antonia, isn't it?” A male voice spoke, making her jump. She turned around to see the voice belonged to a man in the office called Greg. She didn't know him very well as their paths didn't often cross.
“Yes, your Greg?” She asked taking a sip of wine.
It is he seemed pleased She knew who he was. “Can I buy you a drink?” He offered, standing uncomfortably close to her. She could smell his aftershave which wasn't all pleasant. He wore too much of it.
“I already have one she pointed to her glass of wine. Excuse me,” she slid from her stool, glancing around to see where she could make a quick getaway. Before she could move, she felt a head resting on her shoulder from behind and arms sliding around her waist. She immediately tensed, realising it was Nate she slightly relaxed her shoulders.
“Here you are baby” Nate purred. Was he muzzling her ear?! Antonia shrugged as an apology to Greg.
“Sorry mate, I didn't realise”. Greg apologised, hurrying off to join his friends on the other side of the room. Nate let go and laughed. “Oh, his face was a picture. I bet yours was too.”
Rolling her eyes, Antonia spun around on her heals. “I don't know whether to yell at you or thank you.”
“I'd prefer the thank you.” He said, still laughing.
“Thank you” she said through gritted teeth, trying to not to laugh herself.
“You’re welcome. I was coming to tell you a group of us are going to that new restaurant up the road for something to eat. Here, “he said taking her wine out of her hand, “pop your jacket on and then neck this.”
Antonia did as he said and was grateful for some fresh air. The wine had gone straight to her head. Diana thew glares her way, every opportunity she could not realising Antonia wasn't a threat. The crowd from the office stepped inside on the luscious thick carpet. Janice spoke to the member of staff who was in reception, and he asked them to follow him. He whispered something to the waiting staff who quickly moved several tables together, which would seat them all.
“Sit by me,” Nate said, patting the chair next to his. Diana was in the chair to his right. Antonia glanced at the menu, before a commotion coming from the across the room caught her attention. Everyone else’s too. She froze in horror when she realised why the male voice sounded so familiar. Her eyes were fixed to the menu in front of her face, aware people were looking at her. She closed her eyes as Edward shouted, his voice slurred. He was being loud and brash, not unlike his behaviour at the awards ceremony. She prayed he wouldn’t notice her, the last thing she wanted was another scene.
“You have to be kidding me” Edward shouted. “If it isn’t perfect Antonia, are you stalking me?” Antonia drew a deep breath inward, holding it for a few seconds before releasing with a big sigh.
“Don’t flatter yourself” She snapped at him.
“You have caused nothing but trouble for me, you little bitch.” Edward spat, ranting, and raving for the whole of the restaurant to hear.
“Calm down mate” Nate began, Edward cut him off
“Don’t mate me. She dumped me because you turned me into a laughingstock.”
“The woman you were having an affair with finished with you and you’re blaming me?” Antonia couldn’t believe she was having this conversation.
“It is all your fault. You made a laughingstock out of me.”
“Hi Antonia” Laurence, one of Edwards oldest friends greeted her with an apologetic look on his face.
“Hi Laurie” Antonia felt like everyone's eyes were on her. They probably were.
“Don't you speak to that tart. She got me fired for sleeping with my assistant.” Edward barked.
“You did that to yourself” Antonia glared at him, feeling furious. “I don't want anything to do with you and after last week never wanted to even look at you again.” Her finger nails were digging into the palms of her hands. “You made your bed, quite literally so go lay in it and leave me alone.” She sank back into her chair, relieved when security arrived to escort Edward off the premises. People began to strike up conversation again, the room was full of chatter and laughter once more.
Laurie bent down beside her. “I'm so sorry Antonia, I tried to get Edward to leave, he has drunk too much. He has lost everything, his job and Becky dumped him. His parents are furious with him for calling off your engagement.”
“Laurie, I really don't want to hear it. I just want to get on with my life.” Antonia said, willing her eyes not to fill with tears.
“Fair enough. Look after yourself” he said kissing her on the cheek.
“Do you want to leave?” Nate whispered softly in her ear, he knew she was upset and probably wanted to get out of there. Antonia nodded her head, not trusting herself to speak.
Nate whispered something to Diana, and she looked furious. He shrugged and held out his arm for Antonia to slip hers through. She was grateful, feeling unsteady on her feet, not through drinking but the shock of seeing Edward again.
“Miss, would you like to use the back door” the bouncer standing inside reception asked her. “Your ex is outside in the street.” He said more discretely. “If he doesn't stop ranting and raving soon then I'm sure the police will pick him up.”
“Yes please.” Antonia said throwing him a grateful smile.
“I called a taxi,” Nate said, as if on cue one pulled up.
“What are you doing?” Antonia asked as Nate climbed inside the taxi.
“I’m seeing you home. You look to upset to be left alone.” He saw her tense her shoulders. “Don't worry, you haven't got to talk if you don't want to. I thought you needed a friend.”
“Thank you,” Antonia squeezed his hand and gave her address to the driver. She stared out of the window looking out into the darkness of the evening sky.
She paid the driver and stepped out of the car, her house keys jingling in her hand. Unlocking the door, she switched on the light in the hallway, kicking off her heals. Nate followed behind closing the door.
“I didn't realise you lived out in the sticks.” He removed his shoes, leaving them neatly on the door mat.
My nearest neighbour is two miles away, she said offhandedly, unless you count the chickens and cows in the field. I'm sorry I ruined your evening
“You did nothing of the sort.” He said, taking in the quaintness of her home. She had it lovely, like an old cottage which he supposed it was.
“Diana didn't look pleased when you told her you were leaving” Antonia arched her eyebrows.
“She is annoying and very clingy. You did me a favour there.” He laughed, hating to see the look of despair in his friend’s eyes. Antonia opened the fridge, peering inside.
“I have wine, coffee or water" she listed, pausing. “Oh, actually I have a bottle of gin in the cupboard.” She found the gin bottle and poured some out into a glass, not bothering to measure it. She topped the glass with some tonic water.
“Gin would be great,” he took the bottle off her and poured his own measure into a glass.
“You can sleep over in the guest room if you like or call a taxi. I don't mind either way.” She shrugged, carrying her glass through to the lounge.
“I will stay, if, you’re sure.” He said, sitting down in the armchair. Antonia took a seat on the sofa, curling her legs under her.
“The man in the restaurant was Edward.” Antonia spoke, ready to talk.
“I take it he is the reason as to why you have sworn you off men?” Nate really wanted to know. He picked up some of the idle gossip from the last few days, but he really wanted to hear it from Antonia herself. Antonia filled him in on the events which unfolded at the awards ceremony, “When did this happen?!”
“Last weekend so it's still rather raw.” She winced; “I was with Edward for three years and it was such a shock” The gin tasted strong; she didn’t care.
“You are well rid of that jerk” Nate said.
“I happen to agree with you. I feel more upset and hurt over the way he dumped me, in front of all those people. Then to cause that scene tonight” She groaned just thinking about it.
“People are fickle Annie and will soon forget” Nate reassured her. In a few weeks’ time I bet you will have already moved on, maybe a casual fling would help you” Instantly regretting saying those words. “Not with me, silly.” He read her mind, “We are friends” He gave a knowing laugh which made her smile.
“I'm not that type of girl who has a fling or one night stand” She tilted her head to one side “I'm afraid I still believe in happy ever afters. I'm a relationship kind of girl. I'd love to find someone to settle down, raise a family with.” She said wistfully, wondering if the right person would ever come along.
“That sounds nice for you.” Agreed Nate “I like my freedom too much. I like not having to answer to anyone. Its just me to think about”
Antonia laughed, “One day when your about to get married to the woman of your dreams I will remind you of this conversation”
“Fat chance,” He scoffed, knocking back the gin. “What makes you think you will get an invitation anyway?”
“I’m the closest you have to a best friend so of course I will be there as your best woman” She teased,
“Ha, yeah, you have a point there.” He looked confused. “Is that your way of telling me we are best friends now? I’ve been promoted?”
Antonia nodded, “Yep, your stuck with me now for life Nathaniel. You can’t break a bond between best friends”
Nate sat in silence as she went to fetch the bottle of gin from the kitchen. He never had a best friend before, let alone a female one. He had plenty of mates back home, no one he was close to. Antonia topped up his glass with gin, followed by the tonic and sank back into the sofa. She turned on the tv, loaded up Netflix and chose Fast and Furious.
“Is that okay with you?” She asked, we can watch something else, if it isn’t a romance.
“Fast and Furious is good for me. It has cars in it” She passed him some menus. “We never got to eat, so choose something and I will order in.”
Half an hour later, they were tucking in a Chinese, laughing at her lack of knowledge about cars. For the first time in ages, Antonia felt herself relax.
