Chapter 5
Chapter 4
Step Two: Don’t Get Mad At Him No Matter What- If you want him to think of you as an independent woman, act like one. Don’t demand anything from him. Don’t ask him where he goes and with who, if he doesn’t tell you first. Don’t get mad at him because he is late. This will spoil your image, and instead of keeping him, you will lose him.
(Chloe POV)
I stood next to Oliver as he greeted each guest that made their way through the front door of the club. The Ace of Clubs was decked out in varying shades of blues and purples. It looked amazing. Oliver really did a great job getting everything together.
A light caress against my back got my attention and I looked up at Oliver. He smiled.
“I’m going to get a drink real quick. Think you can hold down the fort and thank people for coming?”
I nodded.
“Of course.”
“Would you like something?”
“Sure.”
“What would you like?”
I shrugged.
“Surprise me.”
He made his way through the throng of people and got the attention of the bartender. I could see him laughing at whatever the guy said and I smiled to myself. Oliver has been really great tonight. The ride over here was relaxing. Hanging out with him is nice, things aren’t complicated with us.
He introduced me to his guests as his ‘beautiful date’, the CEO of the Isis Foundation. He knows I’m looking to expand and I could use some funding for a few projects. So, he is taking this opportunity to introduce me to people who will be beneficial to my cause.
One of the board members from Queen Industries was standing in front of me smiling. I smiled back.
“Good evening Mr. Trevors. How are you doing tonight?”
“Quite well Miss Sullivan. And yourself?”
“I’m doing well.”
“I see you’re accompanying our young CEO here tonight.”
I grinned.
“That I am sir. Just trying to make sure he keeps out of trouble.”
He chuckled and nodded his head.
“Yes, he seems to always find trouble. Well I’m glad the two of you are here together. I’m sure you’ll be a good influence on him.”
He gave me a kiss on the cheek, told me to enjoy the rest of my evening and walked toward the other Board Members with his wife in tow. Mr. Trevors was my favorite Board Member. He was a sweet old man, who believed in Oliver and all his crazy schemes.
I’ve had the pleasure of working in close quarters with Queen Industries since Oliver donates money to the Isis Foundation. He’s a good partner to work with. The clearing of a throat startled me out of my thoughts. I glanced up and there about three feet in front of me, was Clark.
Breath Chloe…be calm remember step number two…I gave him a warm smile.
“Hey Clark, you decided to make an appearance.”
He shuffled his feet and nodded.
“Yeah, I uh…thought it might be nice. Listen Chloe I wanted to say I’m sorry for earlier.”
I made sure to put on my most convincing confused face. My tone was inquisitive when I spoke.
“Sorry about earlier…what do you mean?”
“I know I didn’t say much earlier and then I kinda just walked out without even saying good bye or letting you know what was going on. So, I’m sorry about that.”
The confusion left my face and was replaced by acknowledgment. I waved him off and my smile reappeared.
“Don’t even worry about it Clark. It’s no big deal. You’re not required to check in with me. I understand if you have things to do.”
He frowned slightly and opened his mouth to say something when Oliver made his way back over to us. He came up next to me holding out a flute of Champaign. I grinned up at him and took it. His hand found the small of my back and he finally looked over at Clark.
I saw Clark’s jaw tense as Oliver’s hand moved from the small of my back and wound around my waist. I watched as they sized each other up. Oliver’s hand tightened on me slightly and I glanced up at him with a raised eyebrow, but he was still looking at Clark.
“Hey Clark, I’m glad you could make it. I didn’t think I’d see you here tonight.”
“Why’s that?”
His posture seemed calm, but there was something off with Clark’s voice when he spoke. Oliver shrugged.
“You just don’t usually like events like this, that’s all. Why don’t the three of us go over to the bar, I’m sure you’d like a drink.”
I watched him open his mouth, but then he must have changed his mind because he nodded instead. The event was in full swing as Oliver, Clark, and I made our way to the bar. Oliver had just put down his empty glass as he called the bartender over.
He ordered another for himself and then glanced at Clark.
“What will it be?”
Clark shrugged. He wasn’t a big drinker. I nudged Clark gently with my shoulder and pointed to my glass.
“The Champaign is good.”
“I’ll just have a coke.”
Oliver ordered his coke and another glass of Champaign for me. While Oliver was talking to the bartender Clark leaned against the bar facing me. I could feel his eyes on me and it made me shiver. Cut it out Chloe…you know Clark and his super senses. The whole plan will be blown if he figures you out…
I took the last swig of my first glass before making eye contact with Clark. He gave me half a smile, which I returned. He moved slightly closer to me and spoke in a thick voice.
“I never got a chance to tell you how beautiful you look today. You’ve out done yourself Chlo…I mean it.”
I glanced down at myself then back at him. He likes the dress…this is good…
“Thanks Clark. I thought I’d try something different.”
His head jerked toward Oliver.
“For Oliver?”
“Just in general.”
He nodded. Oliver took that moment to put another glass down in front of me and slide Clark his coke, which he caught. The three of us stood there quietly until the music suddenly changed and a slow song came on. I was looking between Oliver and Clark and right as Oliver opened his mouth Clark spoke.
“Would you like to dance Chloe?”
His question startled me. I don’t think Clark and I have danced since the Spring Formal back in high school…I glanced at Oliver and he smiled and waved me off.
“Find me when your done and I’ll introduce you to a few more people who will be able to help with that new project we were discussing for the foundation.”
I nodded, took Clark’s offered arm, and as he led us to the dance floor. I caught the smirk he sent Oliver’s way. I couldn’t help the thrill that went through me. He pulled me closer to him and I placed my arms around his neck.
“Are you having a good time?”
I nodded.
“Oliver has been showing me a good time.”
“That’s good. So…how’s that going?”
“What?”
He twirled me away from him and then brought me back before he spoke again.
“The whole you and Oliver thing.”
I shrugged as best as I could while dancing.
“So far so good. He’s a great guy Clark…definitely someone I can see myself dating for a while.”
I thought I saw him cringe, but it was gone before I could be sure. Things were going exactly according to the plan…at this rate Clark Kent would be mine by the end of the week…
(Clark POV)
I didn’t like the sound of that. She could see herself dating him for a while…what exactly does that mean. I was about to say something else when Oliver came out onto the dance floor. She raised an eyebrow in his direction and he looked between us.
“Bart just beeped me. I think something’s up. We need to go outside real quick and give him a call...”
Chloe was already stepping out of my arms and my anger at Oliver stepped up about two notches. His hand was already at the small of her back again as he lead her to the balcony. I followed them shooting daggers at Oliver the whole way there.
Once we were outside Oliver called Bart. I tuned out his voice and glanced at Chloe. She looks gorgeous tonight…her hair is curled and it’s framing her face. In all the years I’ve known Chloe…I’ve never seen her wear a dress like this and the fact that she’s wearing it for Oliver…upsets me more then I’d care to admit.
Chloe calling my name brought me out of my thoughts. I raised an eyebrow.
“I’m sorry what?”
“Oliver said that Bart and the guys ran into some trouble in Suicide Slums. They need some help.”
Understandable…and of course Oliver couldn’t go because he’s in the middle of hosting an event…I looked at Oliver.
“Where are they exactly?”
“They're by the facility we hit a week or so ago…remember the one?”
I nodded.
“Yeah. Okay, let them know I’m on my way.”
I turned to Chloe.
“I’ll call you tomorrow Chlo. Maybe we can meet up for lunch?”
She smiled.
“Sure, just give me a call.”
I started to leave when Oliver’s voice stopped me.
“Thanks Clark. I’d go but…”
I cut him off.
“But you have a room full of guests. It’s fine. I’ll see you guys tomorrow.”
I left the club and made my way downstairs. I looked around and made sure no one was outside before speeding in the direction the guys were. This whole Chloe and Oliver thing is really starting to worry me…maybe it’s time I just come out and tell her how I feel…
(Chloe POV)
After Clark left the rest of the night went by without incident. Oliver was actually pretty fun to hang out with. He was charming and serious around his business associates and yet at the same time playful. He introduced me to some more business partners and we danced a few times.
My car was parked at the clock tower so we wound up heading back there at around midnight. I was standing with Oliver as he attempted to find the key for the elevator. I chuckled as he dropped his key ring and he shook his head.
“You know you could help me instead of standing there laughing.”
There was amusement in his voice when he spoke. I bent down and picked up the key ring for him. I grinned. He took it back, found the key, and pressed the key fob against the elevator doors. He gestured for me to go and he followed behind me, pressed the button, and we made our way upstairs.
When the doors opened he moved into the room and as I was getting out of the elevator my heel caught on something and I tripped. Before I hit the ground there were a pair of strong arms wrapped around me holding me up.
My hands clasped his uppers arms and I glanced up at him and he was looking down on me. His hair was slightly mussed and there was color on his face from the alcohol he’d consumed tonight. His eyes…they had the strangest look in them and I swallowed hard.
He unwrapped his arms from my body and his hands slid down to my hips and stayed there. When I spoke my voice was soft.
“Sorry about that…”
He shook his head.
“No big deal. Are you alright?”
I nodded.
“Yeah…I’m good.”
He smirked slightly and for a second I thought I saw his eyes twinkle.
“I bet…”
It took me a second to process his statement and one of my hands that was clasping his arm slapped him lightly. He gave me a gruff chuckle and some how managed to bring our bodies closer. His laughter died down and I saw his eyes darken.
I saw him start to lean down and my eyes widened slightly.
“Oliver…”
This wasn’t part of the plan…He didn’t stop leaning down and I didn’t pull away. I felt his lips brush lightly against mine and when he pulled away my eyes were closed. Oh boy…I opened them slowly and he was looking at me with his head tilted to the side.
When I didn’t do or say anything he started to pull away from me, but I held on to his arm. He stopped moving away and I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled myself flush against him. Oh my god…what am I doing?
He hands wrapped around me and he leaned in again. This time I returned the kiss with enthusiasm. It’s been too long…I felt his tongue trying to part my lips and I let it. Here I am, lip locked with Oliver Queen in the middle of his apartment…and I just can’t bring myself to pull back…
This isn’t how the night was supposed to end…and yet I couldn’t help that disappointment was not the emotion currently running through me…
Chapter 4
Step Two: Don’t Get Mad At Him No Matter What- If you want him to think of you as an independent woman, act like one. Don’t demand anything from him. Don’t ask him where he goes and with who, if he doesn’t tell you first. Don’t get mad at him because he is late. This will spoil your image, and instead of keeping him, you will lose him.
(Chloe POV)
I stood next to Oliver as he greeted each guest that made their way through the front door of the club. The Ace of Clubs was decked out in varying shades of blues and purples. It looked amazing. Oliver really did a great job getting everything together.
A light caress against my back got my attention and I looked up at Oliver. He smiled.
“I’m going to get a drink real quick. Think you can hold down the fort and thank people for coming?”
I nodded.
“Of course.”
“Would you like something?”
“Sure.”
“What would you like?”
I shrugged.
“Surprise me.”
He made his way through the throng of people and got the attention of the bartender. I could see him laughing at whatever the guy said and I smiled to myself. Oliver has been really great tonight. The ride over here was relaxing. Hanging out with him is nice, things aren’t complicated with us.
He introduced me to his guests as his ‘beautiful date’, the CEO of the Isis Foundation. He knows I’m looking to expand and I could use some funding for a few projects. So, he is taking this opportunity to introduce me to people who will be beneficial to my cause.
One of the board members from Queen Industries was standing in front of me smiling. I smiled back.
“Good evening Mr. Trevors. How are you doing tonight?”
“Quite well Miss Sullivan. And yourself?”
“I’m doing well.”
“I see you’re accompanying our young CEO here tonight.”
I grinned.
“That I am sir. Just trying to make sure he keeps out of trouble.”
He chuckled and nodded his head.
“Yes, he seems to always find trouble. Well I’m glad the two of you are here together. I’m sure you’ll be a good influence on him.”
He gave me a kiss on the cheek, told me to enjoy the rest of my evening and walked toward the other Board Members with his wife in tow. Mr. Trevors was my favorite Board Member. He was a sweet old man, who believed in Oliver and all his crazy schemes.
I’ve had the pleasure of working in close quarters with Queen Industries since Oliver donates money to the Isis Foundation. He’s a good partner to work with. The clearing of a throat startled me out of my thoughts. I glanced up and there about three feet in front of me, was Clark.
Breath Chloe…be calm remember step number two…I gave him a warm smile.
“Hey Clark, you decided to make an appearance.”
He shuffled his feet and nodded.
“Yeah, I uh…thought it might be nice. Listen Chloe I wanted to say I’m sorry for earlier.”
I made sure to put on my most convincing confused face. My tone was inquisitive when I spoke.
“Sorry about earlier…what do you mean?”
“I know I didn’t say much earlier and then I kinda just walked out without even saying good bye or letting you know what was going on. So, I’m sorry about that.”
The confusion left my face and was replaced by acknowledgment. I waved him off and my smile reappeared.
“Don’t even worry about it Clark. It’s no big deal. You’re not required to check in with me. I understand if you have things to do.”
He frowned slightly and opened his mouth to say something when Oliver made his way back over to us. He came up next to me holding out a flute of Champaign. I grinned up at him and took it. His hand found the small of my back and he finally looked over at Clark.
I saw Clark’s jaw tense as Oliver’s hand moved from the small of my back and wound around my waist. I watched as they sized each other up. Oliver’s hand tightened on me slightly and I glanced up at him with a raised eyebrow, but he was still looking at Clark.
“Hey Clark, I’m glad you could make it. I didn’t think I’d see you here tonight.”
“Why’s that?”
His posture seemed calm, but there was something off with Clark’s voice when he spoke. Oliver shrugged.
“You just don’t usually like events like this, that’s all. Why don’t the three of us go over to the bar, I’m sure you’d like a drink.”
I watched him open his mouth, but then he must have changed his mind because he nodded instead. The event was in full swing as Oliver, Clark, and I made our way to the bar. Oliver had just put down his empty glass as he called the bartender over.
He ordered another for himself and then glanced at Clark.
“What will it be?”
Clark shrugged. He wasn’t a big drinker. I nudged Clark gently with my shoulder and pointed to my glass.
“The Champaign is good.”
“I’ll just have a coke.”
Oliver ordered his coke and another glass of Champaign for me. While Oliver was talking to the bartender Clark leaned against the bar facing me. I could feel his eyes on me and it made me shiver. Cut it out Chloe…you know Clark and his super senses. The whole plan will be blown if he figures you out…
I took the last swig of my first glass before making eye contact with Clark. He gave me half a smile, which I returned. He moved slightly closer to me and spoke in a thick voice.
“I never got a chance to tell you how beautiful you look today. You’ve out done yourself Chlo…I mean it.”
I glanced down at myself then back at him. He likes the dress…this is good…
“Thanks Clark. I thought I’d try something different.”
His head jerked toward Oliver.
“For Oliver?”
“Just in general.”
He nodded. Oliver took that moment to put another glass down in front of me and slide Clark his coke, which he caught. The three of us stood there quietly until the music suddenly changed and a slow song came on. I was looking between Oliver and Clark and right as Oliver opened his mouth Clark spoke.
“Would you like to dance Chloe?”
His question startled me. I don’t think Clark and I have danced since the Spring Formal back in high school…I glanced at Oliver and he smiled and waved me off.
“Find me when your done and I’ll introduce you to a few more people who will be able to help with that new project we were discussing for the foundation.”
I nodded, took Clark’s offered arm, and as he led us to the dance floor. I caught the smirk he sent Oliver’s way. I couldn’t help the thrill that went through me. He pulled me closer to him and I placed my arms around his neck.
“Are you having a good time?”
I nodded.
“Oliver has been showing me a good time.”
“That’s good. So…how’s that going?”
“What?”
He twirled me away from him and then brought me back before he spoke again.
“The whole you and Oliver thing.”
I shrugged as best as I could while dancing.
“So far so good. He’s a great guy Clark…definitely someone I can see myself dating for a while.”
I thought I saw him cringe, but it was gone before I could be sure. Things were going exactly according to the plan…at this rate Clark Kent would be mine by the end of the week…
(Clark POV)
I didn’t like the sound of that. She could see herself dating him for a while…what exactly does that mean. I was about to say something else when Oliver came out onto the dance floor. She raised an eyebrow in his direction and he looked between us.
“Bart just beeped me. I think something’s up. We need to go outside real quick and give him a call...”
Chloe was already stepping out of my arms and my anger at Oliver stepped up about two notches. His hand was already at the small of her back again as he lead her to the balcony. I followed them shooting daggers at Oliver the whole way there.
Once we were outside Oliver called Bart. I tuned out his voice and glanced at Chloe. She looks gorgeous tonight…her hair is curled and it’s framing her face. In all the years I’ve known Chloe…I’ve never seen her wear a dress like this and the fact that she’s wearing it for Oliver…upsets me more then I’d care to admit.
Chloe calling my name brought me out of my thoughts. I raised an eyebrow.
“I’m sorry what?”
“Oliver said that Bart and the guys ran into some trouble in Suicide Slums. They need some help.”
Understandable…and of course Oliver couldn’t go because he’s in the middle of hosting an event…I looked at Oliver.
“Where are they exactly?”
“They're by the facility we hit a week or so ago…remember the one?”
I nodded.
“Yeah. Okay, let them know I’m on my way.”
I turned to Chloe.
“I’ll call you tomorrow Chlo. Maybe we can meet up for lunch?”
She smiled.
“Sure, just give me a call.”
I started to leave when Oliver’s voice stopped me.
“Thanks Clark. I’d go but…”
I cut him off.
“But you have a room full of guests. It’s fine. I’ll see you guys tomorrow.”
I left the club and made my way downstairs. I looked around and made sure no one was outside before speeding in the direction the guys were. This whole Chloe and Oliver thing is really starting to worry me…maybe it’s time I just come out and tell her how I feel…
(Chloe POV)
After Clark left the rest of the night went by without incident. Oliver was actually pretty fun to hang out with. He was charming and serious around his business associates and yet at the same time playful. He introduced me to some more business partners and we danced a few times.
My car was parked at the clock tower so we wound up heading back there at around midnight. I was standing with Oliver as he attempted to find the key for the elevator. I chuckled as he dropped his key ring and he shook his head.
“You know you could help me instead of standing there laughing.”
There was amusement in his voice when he spoke. I bent down and picked up the key ring for him. I grinned. He took it back, found the key, and pressed the key fob against the elevator doors. He gestured for me to go and he followed behind me, pressed the button, and we made our way upstairs.
When the doors opened he moved into the room and as I was getting out of the elevator my heel caught on something and I tripped. Before I hit the ground there were a pair of strong arms wrapped around me holding me up.
My hands clasped his uppers arms and I glanced up at him and he was looking down on me. His hair was slightly mussed and there was color on his face from the alcohol he’d consumed tonight. His eyes…they had the strangest look in them and I swallowed hard.
He unwrapped his arms from my body and his hands slid down to my hips and stayed there. When I spoke my voice was soft.
“Sorry about that…”
He shook his head.
“No big deal. Are you alright?”
I nodded.
“Yeah…I’m good.”
He smirked slightly and for a second I thought I saw his eyes twinkle.
“I bet…”
It took me a second to process his statement and one of my hands that was clasping his arm slapped him lightly. He gave me a gruff chuckle and some how managed to bring our bodies closer. His laughter died down and I saw his eyes darken.
I saw him start to lean down and my eyes widened slightly.
“Oliver…”
This wasn’t part of the plan…He didn’t stop leaning down and I didn’t pull away. I felt his lips brush lightly against mine and when he pulled away my eyes were closed. Oh boy…I opened them slowly and he was looking at me with his head tilted to the side.
When I didn’t do or say anything he started to pull away from me, but I held on to his arm. He stopped moving away and I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled myself flush against him. Oh my god…what am I doing?
He hands wrapped around me and he leaned in again. This time I returned the kiss with enthusiasm. It’s been too long…I felt his tongue trying to part my lips and I let it. Here I am, lip locked with Oliver Queen in the middle of his apartment…and I just can’t bring myself to pull back…
This isn’t how the night was supposed to end…and yet I couldn’t help that disappointment was not the emotion currently running through me…
My goodness! they sure are persistent men, *lucky Ms. Sullivan* as much as i enjoy chlollie I'm all the way chlarker so... chlark!
ReplyDeleteAwesome job Corina darling ppms!