Hired To Love - S01 E22

Story 4 years ago

Hired To Love - S01 E22

Read Story: SEASON 1 EPISODE 22

Henley's POV 95

I woke up the next morning to a knock on the adjoining door. Groaning, I rolled over and peeked my head out of my comforters, seeing Ariana on the other bed doing the same. "Come in," she mumbled. 8

Sebastian slid inside the room, balancing a tray of food on his left hand. The scent of bacon and eggs wafted through the air. "Breakfast in bed?" he offered. 152

Ariana sat straight up, oblivious to the fact that her hair was standing in every which direction and her tank top was halfway rolled up her stomach. "I don't believe you're real," she told him, eyeing him suspiciously. 151

I grinned a little bit and Sebastian chuckled, looking embarrassed. He was wearing a black pair of sweats and a tank and for the first time, I realized just how buff he was. Where Bennett was more on the slender side, Sebastian was broader. His biceps were huge. He could probably break Ariana in half. 726

"I have to prove how amazing of a host I am, don't I?" Sebastian said, placing the tray on the foot of Ariana's bed. He kept his eyes on the floor the entire time and I realized he was trying to be modest. 173

"Thank you," we chimed together. 1

He waved us off. "No need for thanks. It was delivered to our door anyway. I just ordered it." 1

"Did you already eat? Where's Bennett?" I asked. 34

"I'm here," a new voice spoke up and I turned back to the door, where Bennett was propped against the frame, hands in the pocket of his sweatpants. Yep, he was wearing sweatpants too. Instead of a tank though, he was wearing a V-neck tee. It was weird to see him so dressed down, but he definitely could work it. He looked sexy. More attainable. "He didn't make that, by that way," he added, lessening the charge

I rolled my eyes. 3

Sebastian clapped him on the shoulder, shaking his head. "Ben, let's give them some privacy."

"I brought some more brochures for you two," Bennett said, coming over to my bed and handing me a couple of colorful pamphlets. "I suggest a trip to the Mandara Spa or maybe learning to do stand-up paddleboarding. Sebastian will help you find your way around." 21

"You're not coming?" Ariana asked, beating me to it. 7

He gave a slight shake of his head. "No. I have a meeting to attend in a short while. I'm not sure how long it'll take so I'd rather not make you guys wait up for me." 18

I stared at him questioningly. He wasn't hanging out with us? Hadn't he said he'd be spending time with me today? Just the two of us? Was that not happening anymore? Maybe it was better that way. Maybe he'd realized he'd made a mistake the night before by saying that. 102

"Henley, make sure you have your phone. I will call you when I become available," he added, making my melodramatic thoughts come to a stop. 107

So our plans were still on. Why did he have to say it like that? Was I supposed to be waiting on him all day? I gave him a polite smile. "Sure. Once you let me know your availability I'll let you know mine." 125

He didn't blink. "I already know your availability." 32

"How could you know that?" 3

"Sebastian has reservations at five o'clock with Miss Kinsley. For two. You will either be with me at that point or back here." 11

I glared at Ariana accusingly. In her defense though, she looked confused. "What reservations?" she asked. 2

Sebastian gave us both a meek look. "Dinner? Bennett made me— I mean I, ha ha, I know of a good place."

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

Bennett seemed satisfied with Sebastian's response and nodded his head. "Now that this is all cleared up, I have to shower and dress. Enjoy yourselves today." 18

After he left I pursed my lips at Sebastian. "Dinner reservations for just the two of you, huh?" 13

"I personally would've liked to get dinner all together, but Bennett was insistent on having dinner alone with you so he set up the reservations for Ariana and me." He paused. "Not that I'm against having dinner alone with you, Ariana."

Ariana pretended to scratch her chin. "Hmm. Is this some kind of set up? Do you want my hot bod?"

A cute blush spread across Sebastian's face. "No!" 191

I laughed, feeling a little nervous. I could trust Sebastian to watch over Ariana tonight, but I wasn't sure how I'd fare alone with Bennett. Alone on a date with Bennett. Was it even a real date? Or was it him just playing the part of a boyfriend? I hadn't asked and I didn't want to think about it. Both answers to that question didn't mean anything good. 11

"I'll leave you two to get ready. I'm up for anything, so you can decide what we do today," Sebastian told us before exiting the room. 7

Ariana and I looked at each other. "I could marry that man," she commented thoughtfully.

I rolled my eyes. "You can't marry someone just because they give you food." 230

"You're dating a guy just because he gave you money."

My mouth fell open. She smirked. "I will eat all that food," I warned her. 5

She quickly pulled it closer to her, shoving three pieces of bread into her mouth. "Never!" 32

"Hurry and eat. I'm ninety-nine percent sure what we do today is going to be billed on Bennett, so let's do as much as we can." 58

She took some of the bread out of her mouth. "It's typically supposed to be that you don't want to spend any of his money." 3

I shrugged. "Don't look a gift horse in its mouth, right?" 182

"Right," she agreed, shoving a forkful of scrambled eggs into her mouth. 5

Since we didn't have the whole day to play around together, Ariana and I narrowed our plans to hitting up the spa, the shops, and learning to stand up paddleboard. Sebastian told us about the history of Hawaii and pointed out some of the mountains, making plans to hike up them someday with us. He knew a lot about Hawaii because his family owned the resort there. I'd never really thought that he would know so much. I'd just assumed they'd build a hotel and that was that. It was starting to make more sense why Bennett knew all these weird and random facts. He probably learned a bunch of stuff every day. 21

I was learning a lot about Hawaii myself. It felt like peace. Everyone was so friendly and so relaxed. The air was warm and relaxing, with just a hint of the taste salt from the ocean. It felt like I was in an alternate universe, where time had slowed down. With so much going on in my life, I'd forgotten what it felt like to be stress-free and carefree. 19

On our way back from paddle boarding, a passerby handed me a pretty white hibiscus flower. I smiled and put it in my hair while Sebastian said, "Mahalo." 167

The young man winked before walking off. I stared up at the trees around us, in awe at their vibrancy. In fact, the whole island was vibrant. All day, I'd been having trouble taking in just how beautiful this place was. 2

"I got water in my ear," Ariana complained as she tilted her head to the side and shook it. 35

"That's what you get for falling so many times," I teased. 1

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

"What did you get then?" Sebastian asked. "You fell more than her." 55

I narrowed my eyes at him. It was hard not to get distracted by his surprisingly muscled chest. He was tan and glorious. How had I fallen for Bennett, again? "Whose side are you on?" 265

He shrugged. His hair wasn't even wet, that's how good of a paddleboarder he was. He hadn't fallen once. "Thirty minutes isn't that bad to get it right. I guess," he said. 5

"Look at this. I'm seeing a new side to you." 1

"Well, I figure I owe you this since you show me a new side to Bennett every so often," he responded. 58

I raised an eyebrow, trying my best to keep eye contact with him as I wrung out my wet hair. "I do?" 8

"I never thought I'd see the day he'd volunteer to go on a business trip, but I know he did it so you could come along and relax. He knows the stress you're going through. It makes me proud to see him being compassionate." 26

"Is that really why he brought me?" I'd figured it had to do with something about our contract. It made me kind of embarrassed. "What about Ariana?"

"He invited her so you wouldn't feel alone and you'd have more fun," Sebastian told me. 12

Ariana grinned. "Hey. I'm all for that. Free trip to Hawaii? I'd have even come along to be her personal assistant." 41

I stared out at the ocean for a moment, biting my lip. I wasn't used to Bennett being so... human. Where had this come from? Since when had he been so in tune with what I was feeling? Had he found out I liked him? Is that why he invited me on the date? To tell me it couldn't happen... 94

I ground my teeth together. No, Henley. Why did I have to be so negative all the time? I couldn't read Bennett's mind. There was no use speculating. I'd just have to wait. Maybe he just wanted to spend some time together since he hadn't really got to enjoy anything yet. 22

After we left the beach, we headed back to our suite so we could rinse the salt off our bodies. I decided to be cute and wear the white and red hibiscus-patterned sundress I'd purchased earlier to match the white flower in my hair. Hopefully where we'd be going wouldn't have a strict dress code. Knowing Bennett, he would find something about my dress to complain about.

"Are you nervous?" Ariana asked as she studied herself in the mirror, trying to get a good look at her backside. She'd opted for forest green sundress and it complimented her beautifully. 2

"I feel like I'm always nervous around Bennett." 3

"But you're going on a date!" she all but yelled. "Are you happy? Are you excited? I'm all excited for you." 5

I couldn't help but smile at her. "What about you? You get to go out with Seb." 2

Ariana grinned. "He's cute. But I still think your brother is more my type." 344

"Gross." 4

There was a knock at our door. "Bennett's outside," Sebastian called, keeping it closed.

I felt my heart jump into my throat and I gave Ariana a panicked look. She giggled and shoved me at the door playfully. Wiping my sweaty palms off on my dress, I slipped through the door. Sebastian smiled at me warmly. "Have fun." 1

"Thanks." 2

He reached out for my hand and gave it a squeeze. "No matter what you think the future might hold, we'll all be there with you through it." 273

I found my mouth dry up. Did Sebastian know what I was afraid of? How was he so perceptive? "Thanks," I said again, feeling an overwhelming emotion of admiration for the sandy-haired man. "You better treat Ariana nicely," I added because it was the best friend thing to do. 22

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

"You better treat Bennett nicely," he countered. Then paused. "Well actually, he deserves some sass from you." 176

I grinned, feeling like a weight lifted off of me. He waved me off and I headed outside, the wind from the ocean ruffling the bottom of my dress and disheveling my hair. As I pushed it back behind my ear, I noticed Bennett standing at the bottom of the deck, staring up at me. He kept his eyes on me as I descended the stairs and I felt like he was scrutinizing my outfit. Per usual, he was in a button-up and a pair of nice jeans. I had been expecting "what are you wearing?" to come from his mouth. 17

"That dress suits you nicely," is what he said instead. 143

For a moment I didn't know how to respond. He was actually complimenting me? This dress? This twenty-dollar dress? 6

His gaze zeroed in on the flower in my hair. "Where did you get that?" 2

"Uh, some guy gave it to me earlier."

He muttered something and reached out, taking the flower from my hair. Just as I was about to protest, he put it back in on the other side of my head. "Wear it on the left side." 941

"Why?" I asked. 56

He didn't grace me with a response. "Are you hungry? Where would you like to eat?" 4

"I get to decide?" 1

"I always make you go along with my agenda. Today we will do what you want," he told me. 42

I eyed him for a moment, feeling a little weirded out. Who was this and where was Bennett? "Whatever is fine." 24

"What do you want to eat?" 7

"Anything." 12

He flattened his mouth. "Just tell me what you want, Henley." 58

"...Sushi?" 152

The look that crossed his face told me that he absolutely did not want to eat sushi. But once again, the words that came out of his mouth surprised me. "Sushi it is." 11

"Do you even like sushi or are you just agreeing?" 33

"I've never had it," he responded, beginning to walk away from me, toward an idling car I hadn't noticed before. 112

I followed behind him. He slowed so I could walk beside him. Then he opened the door for me. 187

The ride was a silent one. I didn't really mind though, I enjoyed looking out the window at the gorgeous scenery. By the time we pulled up to the restaurant, I felt relaxed again. Bennett once again opened my door for me and even helped me out. The building was black and sleek and there was a sign that read Morimoto. We entered and immediately delicious scents wafted over us. 31

"For two," Bennett told the hostess. "Outside please." 5

She led the way and I barely managed to keep up, too preoccupied with how gorgeous the interior décor was. It was spacious and modern and very elegant. The restaurant was crowded and I wondered how we'd made it in without reservations. 5

Our table was indeed outside. And the view was incredible. There, laid out before us, was the oceanfront. Merely hundreds of feet away. Our table was on a wooden platform, surrounded by a small trough of water. 3

"This is fancy," I said to Bennett. Now I was a little scared to look at the prices on the menu. 2

Bennett shrugged one shoulder. "It's showy." 2

I raised my eyebrows. "Really? It seems like you've come here before, though. You didn't even look up sushi restaurants in the area." 1

He hesitated a moment before saying, "My brother really liked this place, actually. He liked sushi."

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

Had I heard him right? Was he really talking about Lee? So easily?

"Lee is actually the one who decided to build the resort here," he went on, looking out over the ocean. "My mom wanted to abandon it after... the accident. But I said no. It was what Lee wanted. He always did everything for me. I had to do something for him in return. I know it's too late though."

I kept silent, not wanting to pry.

He seemed to notice what he said and he turned to me, face paling. "Sorry. Being here just makes me think about him. I didn't mean to reflect." 1

"It's okay!" I said quickly. "I don't mind. I'd like to hear more about your brother." 3

Bennett's shoulder hunched, guarded. "You don't need to be concerned." 11

I scowled. "Fine." 3

"I just don't want to ruin our time together with unpleasant thoughts." 2

"You mean our date?" 2

"Yes." 1

"Is it a part-of-our-contract date?"

He shook his head.

I fidgeted with the napkin on my lap. "Then what is it supposed to mean?" 44

"What do you want it to mean?" he asked me, green eyes smoldering into mine as if challenging me. 374

Our waiter showed up just then, saving me from having to answer. I didn't even know how I would answer. What was Bennett trying to get at? My skin felt clammy and I picked up the menu, flipping to where the sushi was, trying to distract myself.

"We'll take the chef's choice," Bennett said, not even opening the menu. 9

The waiter nodded and Bennett took my menu from me, handing it back to him. I frowned. "I didn't even get to look." 7

"The chef's choice is a multi-course entrée. This way you'll get to try a bit of everything," he explained. 13

It made sense, but I still wanted to look at the menu. But since he'd been here before, I figured I could trust him. And it would also keep me from cringing at the prices. 1

"Did you settle the issue you came here for?" I asked him as a distraction, sipping at the wine our waiter had dropped off for us. It was sweet and smooth. 10

It worked. His expression grew weary and he nodded. "Yes. We have the green light again. The construction should start within a week. My mother won't be happy though." 2

"Why not?" 1

"Our budget went up." 3

I sincerely doubted they couldn't afford it, but I kept my opinion to myself. Bennett then went into talking about what the resort would have and what the best selling points would be. Most of the business jargon made no sense to me, but his eyes were lit up in excitement, so I tried to keep up. For someone who complained about his work, it did seem he enjoyed some aspects of it. It was cute. And I was once again stunned by just how smart he was. 51

Our food started to arrive, putting a halt to Bennett's monologue. First up were some delicious oysters. Bennett looked like a finicky child, taking the tiniest bite to decide whether he would like it or not. I bit my lip to keep from smiling at him. 69

After the final course was finished and the bill was paid, I was stuffed. The sun was just beginning to set and I was glad we were outside to catch it. Shades of gold were stretching across the sky, reflecting off the ocean. I looked up at Bennett and caught him staring at me. Well, not really caught. It seemed like he was always staring at me these days.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

"Why are you always staring at me?" 4

"I'm curious." 1

"About what?" 4

"Why you are so attractive to me," he answered simply, his eyebrows furrowing the slightest bit. 1.2K

For a second, I thought I'd die. I couldn't feel my heartbeat at all. Then it kicked in full force and I felt heat rise up the back of my neck. How could he say that with such a straight face? My mind was buzzing as I tried to comprehend it. Was it because of the wine? Was it because of his words? 12

"You're nothing I expected to want," he continued, completely ruining the atmosphere. 413

I glowered at him. "What is that supposed to mean? I'm not rich and as tan as an onion ring from Burger King?" 314

That look of horror that spread along his face was almost enough reason to excuse his ignorant insult. Almost. 11

"That's not what I meant," he spoke quickly. 4

"Want to take a walk on the beach?" I asked because I could not sit here face-to-face with him for this conversation. 42

He nodded, standing up from the table and moving to pull my chair out for me. I did it myself before he could. Then I bee-lined for the beach, not even bothering to think about whether it was private or not. I took off my sandals so I could walk better in the sand and noticed Bennett doing the same. 17

"Why are you walking so fast?" he called to me.

So I don't have to face you. "Sorry," I said instead, allowing him time to catch up with me. 43

"Do I make you uncomfortable?" he asked slowly, as if afraid of my answer.

I paused, turning to face him. The sun shone on his skin, creating a golden hue that contrasted well with his dark hair. "Why did you ask me out today?" I blurted out. 17

Idiot, I berated myself. 7

But I didn't stop there. 2

"Was it for the contract? Or was it something else?" 67

A hint of irritation crossed his features. "Do you think everything is for the contract?" 6

"No," I said honestly. "I don't know anymore." 2

"Did you want today to be a date?" he questioned. "Forget about the contract. A real date. Between you and I." 188

Yes! My mind shouted. 21

It's not right. 98

We don't suit each other. 8

Say no, Henley. 78

"I..." I didn't know what to say. My mind was in turmoil. Rationality vs. irrationality. Reality vs. Daydream. 5

"Stop holding back what you want to say. Tell me exactly what you're thinking," he said quietly and pleadingly, as if he knew the internal struggle I was having. 53

"Yes," I breathed out. I felt my hands shaking at my sides. This wasn't right. 256

He stilled, expression blank. 14

"But we have a contract," I said, dropping my eyes, unable to look him in the face. "And our lives are too different. I understand that." 81

Suddenly I felt Bennett's hand on my cheek, turning my face back up. Suddenly I realized just how close he'd gotten to me. Suddenly there was nothing in the world but him and I. 448

I felt his breath on my lips. I felt the warmth of his body on my cool skin. 267

The world came crashing back. I pulled away from him, feeling like I couldn't breathe. Goosebumps covered my exposed skin. I realized I was scared. 527

His hand dropped. 43

"This isn't a good idea," I said. I wanted to kiss him. So, so, so badly. But I couldn't do that to myself. This wasn't my life. This wasn't my future. I wasn't the one for Bennett. Deep down, I knew it. It wouldn't be worth the pain. 223

I backed up a few steps, preparing to run. Just as I was about to, Bennett moved forward, pulling me into his arms. My body went rigid, allowing it to happen. He tightened his grip on me, pressing my chest to his. "Damn it, Henley. What did I just say? I don't care what you think you should do. Tell me what you want. You have to tell me what you want. You have to let me know I'm not on my own in this." 449

"I..." 3

"Tell me, Henley." 5

"Yes-" 83

No sooner had the words left my mouth, Bennett pulled back, eyes searching mine briefly. Then his hand was on my cheek again, lifting my head up. Then his lips were on mine. Hard, then soft. Then I realized that it was worth it. 2K

My heart hammered against my chest— or was it his heart? Every sense of mine was heightened. The waves roared in my ears. My pulse rushed through my veins. His hand squeezed my waist. My hand found his neck. 214

I was the first to pull away, my breathing coming out shakily and uneasily. His eyes were half-lidded and he watched me for a moment before a small smile crossed his face and he went back in for another kiss.

The only thought that crossed my mind was, thank God I ate that mint.

EXTRA: Henry & Lee.

by JordanLynde

Henry Arceo(n.) a twenty-nine-year-old man who works for the Calloways. Shy. Timid. A loner. Thinks Mrs. Calloway is the devil and Lee Calloway is an angel.

Lee Calloway (n.) the oldest Calloway. Kind. Warm. A family guy. Thinks helping others is the most important thing in the world and that Henry needs to eat more.

The first time Henry met Lee was in late October. 186

It was down pouring and Henry had forgotten an umbrella. He looked down at the pile of papers in his arms dejectedly. They were certain to get wet even if he sprinted to his car. He could only imagine what Mrs. Calloway would say if he sullied them. No, he didn't want to imagine it. It would give him nightmares. He'd barely known the woman for a week and he already flinched whenever she opened her thin mouth. 29

Just as Henry was debating whether to leave the papers on the bench outside the hotel and pull up the car, an umbrella opened up over him. He turned and came face-to-face with the eldest son of the Calloway family. Lee had a warm smile on his face, his eyes glinting with a hint of amusement. "Afraid of a little rain, Henry?" 111

Henry was surprised Lee knew his name. He'd only met Lee once before when Mrs. Calloway had called Lee into her office to scold him about a contract he'd signed without her permission. Even though Lee was the same age as him, he appeared much older— much older than any twenty-four-year-old should. His face was worn, with heavy bags under his eyes. His posture was perfect, but he looked like he held up the world. And yet he still smiled, kindly and widely. 56

Lee held the umbrella closer to Henry. "You can have this. Bennett never brings one so I always keep a spare. He has the strangest issue about his car being in perfect condition. He won't sit in it if he's wet, but he never remembers to bring his own umbrella."

Henry didn't know much about the younger Calloway, but somehow he could picture that.

"Seeing as how Ben didn't show up today, it's free for you to use," Lee added, pushing the handle toward Henry again. 1

"Sorry," Henry said as he took the umbrella from him. 2

"Why are you apologizing?" 1

It was just always the first word on the tip of Henry's tongue. Around Mrs. Calloway, it seemed like the safest thing to say. "Sorry," he repeated. 11

Lee chuckled. "I can see you're getting used to my mother already. Has she threatened to fire you yet?" 1

"No? Is she supposed to?" 17

"Hmm, it usually happens by the third day. She must like you." 1

"If this is how she treats people she likes, I don't want to know how she treats people she loves," Henry muttered. 36

Lee stared out at the rain for a moment, lip pressed. "Not much different, I'd say." Plastering another smile on his face, he turned to Henry again. "Anyway, I have to head back in. The work Bennett didn't do today won't do itself." 59

"You're not leaving?" It was already seven o'clock at night. Most of the employees had left at four. Henry had stayed to triple check his work so Mrs. Calloway wouldn't criticize him the following day. 4

"No, I just happened to witness you loitering in front of the building on my way to the lobby and thought I could lend a hand. Go take a good rest, Henry." 6

Henry nodded gratefully. 1

.

41

The second time Henry met Lee, it wasn't pleasant. 12

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

"How could you have messed this up!?" Mrs. Calloway screeched at the eldest Calloway, slamming her hands down upon his walnut desk. The force caused the coffee Henry had just brought Lee to slosh over the edge of the cup.

She was mad. Henry had never seen her this mad before. 1

"What were you thinking? Are you really this foolish? Do you really want to be the company head? Do you think I'd think you were suitable after this?" she continued, growing more and more hysterical. 51

Henry watched, wide-eyed and terrified. He felt like he should call the cops. 7

Lee remained perfectly calm. Or he seemed calm, at least. He reached for a napkin to wipe up the spilled coffee, avoiding his mother's angry gaze. 1

"Do you have no words for yourself?" she snapped. 2

"I'm sorry," he replied simply. 7

"Sorry? That's all you have to say for yourself? Maybe I should start teaching your brother more. He obviously has more common sense than you. Do you not realize how great a merge this could've been? Do you know how much money you lost us?" 121

Henry felt like covering his ears. Her voice reminded him of nails on a chalkboard. 25

Lee inclined his head. "I sincerely apologize, mother. It won't happen again." 14

Letting out an irritated puff of hair, she placed her manicured hands on her waist. "You're lucky I have somewhere to be. This better not happen again. Otherwise you can say goodbye to the resort in Hawaii. Why should I back you when you won't back the company? Are you listening to me? 34

"Yes, mother." 1

"After you've finished your work for the day, go finish Bennett's. Your punishment for making a mockery of our company. You better think about what you've done." 19

There was no response from Lee and Mrs. Calloway turned on her heel, clacking loudly out of the room. Henry stood rooted to the spot, too afraid to follow after her.

A deep sigh came from Lee. 1

"Why do you let her speak to you like that?" Henry asked. 1

"She's my mother." 83

"But..." 2

"Can I tell you something?" Lee asked. 1

"Yes," Henry answered. 1

"The company my mother wanted to strike a deal with is headed by a man named Gary Larson. According to another company head, he embezzles. On average, they pay their female employees almost fifty percent less than they pay their male employees. On average, thirty percent of female employees have said they've felt sexually harassed verbally by him. They've been audited multiple times and I have no doubt they falsify their taxes. If our companies ever merged, we would go under when they were finally caught and I have no doubt a criminal like him will be caught eventually." 178

Henry tried to comprehend it. How much digging had Lee done? How did he know so much about the other company? "Why don't you tell your mother that?" 1

Lee smiled bitterly. "Gary Larson also happens to be someone my mother has always relied on and trusted. Our family friend. I don't want her to know what kind of man he actually is. She's cruel, but she's honest and hardworking. She would be hurt if she found out." 100

"Won't she try to resolve the relations?" 1

His expression hardened. "I ended it," he said firmly. "There are no more relations. Gary will step down quietly." 11

Henry decided Lee could be as intimidating as Mrs. Calloway. Fortunately, Lee seemed to only use his wicked power for righteous deeds. "What about the extra work you have to do?" 3

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

"I owe it to Bennett, anyway. She'll probably take some of her anger out on him." 1

"You're a good son," Henry said. "And brother." 1

"I try," he responded, strained. "I really try." 295

.

7

The third time Henry met Lee was a few days after the incident with the merger. Mrs. Calloway was away on business and Henry had been at the main hotel all day, doing some much needed organizing. He felt a lot more comfortable when she wasn't around. It was nice to not have to walk on needles around her. 17

There was a knock on the office door and Lee entered, holding up a hand in greeting. "Am I interrupting?" 1

Henry shook his head. He was just about done for the day, anyway. "Do you need help with something?" 1

The corners of Lee's mouth twitched. "Hmm, I guess you could call it help. I'd like to just call it going out for a drink with a friend." 45

"Me?" 1

"Can't we be friends?" 120

In most cases, employees and employers couldn't be friends. But Lee wasn't exactly like any other employer Henry had known. "Sure. Let me lock up the office." 3

On their way out of the building, Henry noticed just how beat Lee looked. The oldest Calloway always looked much more haggard than his brother or mother, but today Henry could almost feel the fatigue rolling off him. 2

Their driver brought them to a pub called McKellan's. Lee's face brightened a little as they entered the tavern, the jolly atmosphere inside immediately affecting him. 192

Henry felt a little out of place. He was more the stay at home, be on the Internet type of guy.

"I've had a rough day," Lee told him. "So get drunk with me." 224

"You didn't pin me as the drinking type." 7

Lee shrugged his shoulders and a waitress came up, asking if they'd rather be seated in a booth or at the bar. They ended up in a booth, menus placed in front of them. Henry stared at the menu. He didn't have much money left after paying his bills and rent. A couple drinks were pushing it, but he hadn't wanted to turn Lee down. 4

"Order what you want," Lee told him. "I'm putting it on the company card." 5

"It's okay. I'm not very hungry," Henry said. 2

"So the peanut butter and jelly you ate for lunch was more than enough?" Lee asked, leaning across the table at him, expression skeptical. 171

Henry could feel heat creep up the back of his neck. How did Lee know what he ate for lunch? Besides, there was nothing wrong with PB&J. It was cost-efficient and somewhat tasty.

Lee smiled his trademark smile—kind, warm, knowing— and tapped the menu. "Eat something." 35

Feeling slightly humiliated, Henry scanned the menu and ordered a hamburger when the waiter returned. And, after being called a child for trying to order a Coke, he and Lee both ordered beers. 25

"This is just what I needed," Lee sighed as he took his first swig of liquor. "I've been dealing with hotel complaints today. There have been some pretty angry patrons lately. So on top of all my usual paperwork and duties, I've had people screaming in my ear all day. I probably should've just left it to the customer service managers, but they seemed to be swamped at the front desk." 1

"But you seemed busy too." 6

"Yeah, but I'm going to be the owner one day. I want my employees to actually like me, unlike my mother. If I can get on their good side by helping them out when I can, I will." 35

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

"That's respectable." 1

"Isn't it?" Lee responded, eyes twinkling. "I know it doesn't sound like much, but this kind of stuff just wears away at you. Like being in a dark room for too long with no light." 10

Henry wanted to say he understood, but did he really? Lee's life was completely the opposite of Henry's. The only thing Henry was responsible for was an apartment, a car, and Mrs. Calloway's mundane tasks. Lee was responsible for thousands of employees and even more customers. 3

As the night grew on and Lee grew drunker, Henry learned more and more about the heir to Calloway Hotels. He was smart. Benevolent. Unselfish. 8

And he cared about his younger brother more than anything else in the world. 179

"I love Bennett," Lee said. "My little brother. He's cute, isn't he? He's a bit of a brat though." 452

"Yeah, he is," Henry agreed, alcohol allowing him to say things he'd never dream of saying while sober. He hadn't met Bennett too many times, but usually, the younger Calloway was complaining about something. 3

"That's why I work so hard," Lee continued, chugging the rest of his Samuel Adams. "Even days like today— where I'd rather just not exist— I have to keep going. You know?" 162

Henry didn't know. 7

"Bennett can never have my position." 159

Henry didn't think he heard Lee right. He'd never expected Lee to be like this. Was he purposely doing all the work so Bennett wouldn't have a chance? "You want to keep it all to yourself?" 2

Lee shook his head, wrinkling up his face. "I don't want this. I don't know what my life looks like to you, Henry, but it's Hell to me. All I do is work. I'm never alone. My mother is everywhere. I can't even decide what to eat for breakfast. She's been trying to set me up with her friend's daughters since age fourteen."

"Why don't you step down then?" 1

"I can't do that to Bennett." 66

"Why? What if he wants to be the CEO?" 1

"Even if he did, I couldn't do that to him. He doesn't understand it now. This isn't something anyone should want. If one of us can be free, I want it to be him." 780

Lee's words hung heavy in the air and at first Henry didn't know what to say. Then he frowned. "Why don't you ask for more free time?" 1

"The less I do, the more work falls to my mother," Lee told him. 34

"Good. I'd see less of her." After realizing what he said, Henry's eyes widened. "I didn't mean that. Sorry." 59

Lee's hand shot over his mouth as he began to snicker. "It's okay, I think that sometimes too. But she works a lot. Probably more than me. Travelling takes its toll on one's body, you know? She's my mother. I have to help her. We lost our father a couple years ago so she's been taking on both workloads. The least I can do is help with what I can." 74

"I think you're too much of a nice guy." 54

"I could say the same thing about you, Shy Guy," Lee countered. "You should stick up for yourself sometimes." 57

Henry sipped at his beer. Yeah, right. If he stood up for himself, Mrs. Calloway would throw him out on the streets. "If you're feeling overwhelmed, ask me for help. I'll do what I'm able to if I have free time." 1

"I feel bad that you have to work for my mother. It must be rough." 1

"It is." 1

Lee's eyes lit up. "Instead of just helping me in your free time, why don't you become my assistant?" 54

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

"Huh?" 1

"I'd treat you nicer than my mother," he offered, a grin spreading across his face. "How about it?" 51

"Would your mother allow it?" 1

"I'm sure I could convince her." 1

Henry didn't even have to consider it. "It's not like I would protest." 1

"Well, I'll see what I can do then," Lee said, nodding to himself. 1

One week later, Henry was working for Lee, leaving smelly old Mrs. Calloway by her lonesome. (Just kidding. She hired another secretary immediately. She'd already had one lined up because she was getting sick of Henry's timidness. Poor Henry. But I guess it worked out for both of them). 27

.

1

Henry stopped counting the times he met up with Lee. Now that he was working for him, he saw Lee every day. Gone were the days of being reluctant to go to work; in were the days where Henry actually woke up early to go in, only to be greeted by Lee and a cup of coffee. 108

Lee hadn't been exaggerating about the workload he had. Henry almost couldn't keep up with everything. But Lee never yelled at Henry for being too slow or threatened to fire him for bringing Lee the wrong contract. Instead, they worked together on everything and then Lee would treat Henry to lunch on their break. Then sometimes after work, they'd head out to McKellan's for an after work drink. 31

Sometimes Henry wasn't sure if Lee was his boss or his best friend. 132

Lee also made Henry help out Bennett sometimes. The younger Calloway had no tact. He said whatever came to mind, no matter how insulting. In fact, one of the first few things Bennett ever said to Henry was, "You work for a multi-million dollar company and you're wearing a fifty dollar suit?" 224

Henry was horribly embarrassed, but Lee assured him that Bennett hadn't meant to insult him; he just didn't know how to talk to people properly. "A side effect of growing up with people who bow at your feet for a chance at wheedling their way into your success," Lee said. 19

Still, the next day Lee took Henry to one of the fanciest suit shops he'd ever been to and put a couple outfits on the company's credit card. 22

"Good thing we're the same size," Lee commented, sending Henry a wink. 176

Henry didn't feel quite as bad knowing that it wasn't Lee's money he was spending, but more likely Mrs. Calloway's. 28

. 19

One of the last times Henry saw Lee was inside the main office at the main hotel, in the middle of the night. Henry had forgotten his laptop charger and had run back into the building to snag it, coming across Lee in the process. He'd been sitting in the dimly lit room, head in his hands. When Henry had turned on the light, Lee jumped, eyes growing wide. 169

It was the first and only time that Henry had caught him off guard. "Sorry," Henry apologized sheepishly. 2

"It's okay," Lee responded, his voice scratchy and low. 1

Upon closer look, Henry could tell that something wasn't quite right with Lee. Lee's eyes were bloodshot, like he'd gone a week without any sleep. His cheeks were sunken, giving him a gaunt appearance. 19

"Are you okay?" Henry asked. 1

Lee nodded. "I'm fine." 19

Somehow Henry doubted Lee would tell him even if he wasn't feeling fine. "You should head home. It's almost midnight." 1

"You know I trust you a lot, right Henry?" Lee said abruptly. 8

Henry paused. 1

"In this world, you're probably the closest person to me besides Bennett. If anything ever happened to me, you would help him, right? You'd help Bennett?"

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

Looking back, Henry should've known right then and there that something was wrong. He'd had a weird feeling in his gut, but he'd brushed it off. 42

"Of course I'd help Bennett," Henry told Lee. "I really think you should get some sleep. When you don't it worries me. You need a full eight hours." 24

Lee chuckled a little bit. "You're funny, Henry. Thank you." 1

Henry didn't know why Lee was thanking him. 66

. 5

The last time Henry met Lee was in late October, nearly six years after the day they'd first met. It was raining. 232

Henry hated the rain now. 26

The day had finished up and Henry was filing away the last few papers on his desk when Lee appeared, poking his head through the office door like usual. "Hey, Henry." Unlike usual, his voice sounded flat instead of happy. 2

"Hi, Mr. Calloway." 1

"Work's over, you can call me Lee." 1

Henry hesitated. He always felt unprofessional when he called Lee by his first name. Like he didn't even have the right to. 1

"Henry, please call me Lee," Lee said again. 17

"Okay, Lee." 3

Lee's eyes brightened, but not to the usual amount. Something was off about him. Henry couldn't quite place what though. Lee's hair was a little messier than usual, but he had just worked ten hours. 2

"Want to get drinks tonight?" Lee asked. "Bennett and I are going to McKellan's." 190

Henry thought about the work he had to do at his apartment. There was no way he could leave that mess any longer. He'd promised himself he'd clean it up after work. "Sorry, Lee. I've got a lot of stuff to do today." 57

Lee's face fell. "You can't do it tomorrow?" 2

"No. I've been putting it off for a while." 23

"That's okay. It's just been a while since we'd last gone out. I wanted to treat you to a beer one more time." 223

Henry smiled a little. "Next time." 54

Lee didn't return his smile. 197

Another sign Henry should've realized. Lee always smiled. He always had that dumb, kind, warm, everything-is-okay smile. But he didn't. For Lee, nothing must've been okay. 24

"Thank you Henry," Lee spoke up again as Henry locked the filing cabinet. "For all your help." 68

"You don't need to thank me. It's my joi8iiiiiiiiiiiiiiib." 1

"Well, I appreciate it." 1

"Thank you." 1

"Remember what I said about helping Bennett?" 72

Henry nodded. 1

"Does that still hold true? Will you help him? No matter what?" 107

"Yes... why are you asking me?" 1

Lee shook his head. "It's nothing. I gave you a raise." 2

Henry's eyes widened. "What?" 1

"You've worked so hard. You deserve it. I hope it can lead you to a little more happiness in your life. Maybe with it, you can eat full lunches." Lee's eyes narrowed a little bit. "You have to eat good meals, Henry." 132

Henry nodded slowly, a frown working its way onto his face. "Thank you..." He should've been happier about the raise, but something felt off. He couldn't shake the feeling. Something bad was going to happen. 16

"Oh, Bennett's calling me. We're heading out." Lee paused. "You're my best friend, Henry. Don't forget that." 146

"Be safe tonight," Henry told Lee. 15

Lee smiled finally, but it looked sad. "You too, Henry. Stay safe."

Henry got the call at three o'clock in the morning. 15

"Henry? It's Bennett." He could hear the shaking of the younger Calloway's voice. "Lee's been in an accident." 1.6K

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HAPPY ONE MILLION READS TO HIRED TO LOVE WOOOOOOO!!!

My gift to you guys!! Thank you for reading, commenting, voting, being alive, being you. You all rock!!! You're my happiness!

I thought it would be fun to take a look into Henry and Lee's lives before everything happened. It was fun to write and LEEEE WHYYYYYYY. ༼ つ ಥ_ಥ ༽つ This chapter made me love him ):

Next REAL chapter to HTL will be up in a few days. It'll be in Bennett's POV too, if you're wondering.

Love you guys!! 10

Jordan