Chapter 5 I Didn't Want to be Saved

SERENA'S POV

Heat rushed to my cheeks, and a shiver ran down my spine as he casually removed a thread from my wet blonde hair. I brushed it off, trying to keep cool."Well, now you know."

Our moment was interrupted when Mom returned and Kaden excused himself with a casual "see you around."

Alone with my mother, she dropped a bombshell."Serena, I've been thinking. Why don't you move in fully after the wedding?"

I blinked in surprise."Move in? Mom, it's a big step. I have my own life, my own place."

Mom's eyes held a hopeful gleam."I know, dear, but it would mean the world to me. I just really want to make up for lost times. And I want us all to be one big happy family. You do not have to make your decision now, but just promise me you would think about it?"

I nodded numbly. She kissed my cheek, told me to get some rest before leaving and I finally shut the door.

"Cameron, you can come out now." I said gently.

"So, you were having a chat with my brother too?" He asked me with a slight frown."I could hear his voice."

"He just happened to check in, " I responded and bit my lip.

He stepped closer to me and I held my breath obviously affected by the close proximity and the way he looked at me.

"I have a party to attend that I am late for now, thanks to you. See you around."

And with that, he walked out. I threw my hands in the air in frustration. Great! He turned me on and then walked away like it was nothing.

Cameron Lodge, I would get you for this.

The next morning, I quickly called Katy to inform her of the turn of events while I prepared for work.

"This is the kind of drama you need in that boring life of yours!" She exclaimed on the other end of the line.

I couldn't help but chuckle, running my fingers through my honey-blonde waves that fell all the way to my back.

I stood before the mirror adjusting the pencil pleated skirt hugging my curves, it's hemline teasing just above my knees which elongated my shapely legs in the two-inch heels I wore. My top was neatly tucked into the skirt, my slim waist and voluptuous figure very prominent.

"Maybe too much drama Katy, " I replied, reaching for my makeup bag. I carefully applied eyeliner to make my chocolate eyes pop and added a touch of crimson lipstick to my naturally pink, full lips.

Katy, ever the conspirator, wasted no time in suggesting."So, is it Operation sabotage your mom's wedding?."

I smirked, "Yes, and the sooner, the better. I can't stay in this mad house for too long."

Breakfast that morning was awkward. I avoided Cameron's gaze, unable to face the intensity in his eyes after what had transpired the night before. I hurriedly finished my meal and made a hasty exit, eager to escape the tense atmosphere.

Later that evening, Kaden arrived at my office, looking effortlessly sexy in a form-fitting suit. The colors, blue and white, were my favorites, showcasing his strong physique. He was slightly late, so our meeting was brief.

I watched stupidly as Kaden got up, his words barely registering in my mind."I'll see you at home, Serena. I have somewhere else to be, " he said, his voice pulling me back to reality. I nodded absentmindedly, still processing his sudden departure. After working for another fifteen minutes, I got out of the building and began my drive home.

My car suddenly jerked to a halt after only three minutes on the road. I tried to restart the engine, but it refused to cooperate. With a groan of annoyance, I pulled over to the side of the road.

I reached for my phone, intending to call my trusted mechanic, but his number was unreachable. Leaning against my car, I contemplated on my next move, when a car pulled up slowly beside me.

It was a sleek, white BMW. The driver's side door opened, and Kaden stepped out, a concerned look on his face."What's the problem?" he asked.

I blinked, momentarily stunned by his unexpected presence."My car just stopped, and it won't start again, " I replied, my frustration evident.

Kaden nodded, his gaze shifting to the engine."Let me take a look, " he offered. I couldn't help but notice that he had removed his suit jacket, revealing a crisp white long-sleeved shirt. The first two buttons were undone, and he casually rolled up his sleeves to his elbows, revealing his strong forearms.

As he leaned over the engine, his silver chain dangled and caught the setting sun, glimmering against his tanned skin. The ripple of his muscles were visible beneath his shirt and I found my eyes involuntarily drifting to his hands, marveling at their strength.

I watched him work, admiring his focused expression, his perfect full brows knitted together.

After a few attempts, he straightened up, a hint of disappointment in his eyes."I'm sorry, Serena. I've tried everything, but it seems like we'll need to call a tow truck. The car is parked wrongly, and it's best to get it fixed tomorrow, " he explained.

"Thank you for trying, Kaden, " I replied, as I hugged myself and gave a small smile.

He gestured toward his car."Do you want a ride back home? It's getting late, and it's the least I can do, " he offered.

Did I want a ride back home? Was December 25th Christmas Day?

"Yes, thank you for offering."

And just like that, I was sure I was walking to my doom. Oh and I didn't want to be saved.