Chapter 85 - More than I imagined (1)

Saturday afternoon, Sarah and Aiden reached the address of the apartment building that Sarah got as a part of her package for joining the White corp. When Sarah looked at the massive 20 story high building, in a great area of the city, surrounded with wide sidewalks, restaurants and shops, she could not believe her eyes.

Jeff arranged that she gets the keys from the doorman who was stationed next to the elevators. While walking through the lobby, Sarah observed that the building has a valet service, reception with more than one person stationed there at a time and security. It looked really grand.

Sarah and Aiden took the private elevator to 20th floor. Sarah was all giddy thinking that their apartment is on the top floor. 'Doesn't that make it a penthouse? I have penthouse in Los Angeles!' When elevator door opened, they entered a luxury apartment which has more than 3000 square feet, hardwood floors throughout, floor to ceiling windows. Sarah was stunned by the views from the apartment, and even more when she saw that the apartment has three terraces. First terrace faces East and provides a great view of the city, second one faces West, and you can see the ocean, and third one is on South side and has a swimming pool! All three terraces can be accessed from the living room. Sarah skipped excitedly to the swimming pool and was happy to see that it is heated. Kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms, everything is furnished and with high-end finishes.

On the kitchen island there was documentation related to the apartment, Sarah flipped through it and saw that her unit comes with three underground parking spaces, and the building has many amenities such as valet parking, concierge, gym, library, card room, sauna, pool, wine cellar.

'Is this a building or a city on its own?' Sarah thought. Then she saw substantial HOA* dues, 'I'm happy that until apartment is officially mine, White corp. will cover HOA cost, so for next three years I can live here for free.'

"This is way more than I imagined", Sarah honestly said.

Aiden was enjoying watching Sarah as she happily hopped through the apartment, checking it out.

She noticed that he does not look surprised or excited by any of what they found in the apartment. "This is not your first time here, is it?"

Aiden smiled, amused by her observation. "You are very perceptive."

"How many times did you stay here?"

He shook his head slightly. "I didn't stay here. When in Los Angeles I would stay at my brother's place. But I came here when White corp. got this property, and also once more with my brother to check on progress of renovations."

Sarah wanted to know more about the renovations done, but her attention got to the island in the kitchen. Next to the apartment documentation was a credit card with a note. 'For your car'.

Sarah took the card and looked at Aiden with glee. "We should go buy some things like bedding and towels... and we can go car shopping." She waved the card.

They went to BBB** store and got everything they need for the apartment. They asked store clerk to send things they purchased to the apartment. Then they went to the car dealership. Car dealership is huge, it has several hundred cars on a large three level car lot.

"Do you have a car in mind?" Aiden asked while looking at the few featured cars which had brochures on the counter.

"Not really. But I would like a convertible, I think that California just gives off a vibe to ride in a convertible." She laughed. This was a good day, apartment, shopping and now getting a car! And all that with Aiden who didn't seem to mind going with her everywhere.

After talking with a salesperson, and checking few cars, Sarah ended up taking 2018 BMW 6 Series Convertible in Red Metallic color.

On the way back they stopped in a grocery store and picked up some snacks and necessities. Sarah went to check out, but Aiden blocked her.

"You didn't get any meat, fruits or vegetables. No one can survive from junk food. What will we cook?" He scolded her.

Sarah pouted in protest but went to the vegetable section and watched him pick produce skillfully.

…

After they settled in and freshened up, it was already evening.

"How about we order something for dinner?" Sarah was not in the mood for cooking.

Aiden looked down from the terrace. "How about we eat out and then go for a walk?"

Sarah went next to him and looked down. It was a busy street, and atmosphere of pleasant weather, people and lights made it look very inviting. Sarah could imagine two of them walking there while holding hands. "Accepted."

...

After diner in a small restaurant, they went for a walk. The weather was enjoyable, and a small breeze was refreshing. It was getting late, and there were many couples on the street, walking. Sarah was happy to share this moment with Aiden. She knows that there are many people around them, but to her, it felt like it's just the two of them.

Aiden held her hand as they walked on the streets of Los Angeles and thought how this is not his first time on that street. But this is the first time he is enjoying. He looked at her face, all lit up from excitement and smiled.

Sarah was thinking how she will tell Aiden that she is on a pill now. No plan seemed good enough, but she was excited. She could not wait to go back to the apartment.

She freshened up for the night swiftly and waited for Aiden to finish showering.

Unfortunately, she was up from early in the morning, and it was a busy day, and bed was comfortable... by the time Aiden got out of the shower, Sarah was sleeping soundly. He saw her sleeping, settled down next to her and pulled blanket over them. He kissed her cheeks few times gently before embracing her and sleeping off.

If he knew what she was thinking just before she slept off, he would not sleep off so easily. Sometimes ignorance is good.

...

When Sarah woke up, it took her few seconds to realize where she is. Aiden was not in the bed. She got up and went to see if she can find him. In the hallway, Sarah could smell the coffee, so she headed toward the kitchen.

Aiden was in the kitchen, checking something on his phone with a croissant in his mouth. He was all sweaty. His t-shirt was wet and stuck to his toned body. Sarah could guess that he just exercised. The whole scene was very seductive, and Sarah froze while staring at him. Aiden looked up at her and revealed an enchanting smile. "Good morning."

Sarah swallowed hard. "Good morning..." Her greeting came out as a whisper.