~Annabel's POV~
The house was eerily quiet when I walked in. My Heels clicked against the marble tiles, each sound echoed loudly in the whole house. Aiden's cologne wavered in the air, rich and familiar, yet tonight, it did nothing to ease the unease curling in my stomach.
I gently placed the paper bag containing the Banana bread on the Kitchen counter. My fingers tremble slightly, my heartbeat is still unsteady from his urgent texts. He was never the type to send cryptic messages—at least, not to me.
As I took off my coat, I heard footsteps approaching.
My breath hitched.
It was Aiden in the doorway, his expression was unreadable, a fresh change of cloth different from what he had worn earlier. He was relaxed— too relaxed.
"You are home," he said. His voice was steady, but carrying an edge of something I couldn't place together.
I forced a swallow, my chest tightening. "You scared me with that text." My voice was thinner than I intended. "What's wrong?"
"It wasn't my intention to scare you with my text", he continued, "I have something important I want to discuss with you".
I swallowed hard. My chest twisted as he took a step forward towards me.
I asked with a thin voice, "What is it? You are scaring me". My grip tightened on the counter, my breath coming in short spurts.
He drew closer to me, closing the space between us. The touch of his hands on mine felt so warm, firm but reassuring.
"It's nothing to be scared about baby" he began with a slim smirk, that turned into a wide smile. "I got the deal with the Paris Investors". His eyes gleamed.
For a second, I stood still, my brain trying to process his words. Then the tension in my chest frayed all at once.
"Oh my gosh Darling—you had me startled". I said half laughing, half-scolding. "I am happy for you, love. This is good news". I reached out for a hug.
"I am sorry if I have been acting unusual for a while". I could feel the repentance in his voice. Firm yet pitiful. "It was just work stress and the tension surrounding this deal". He clarified. My heart softened like a burden had been lifted off me.
I sighed, "I could sense it and I am glad it's all over now". My hands rubbed through his head as he leaned on me.
I guess this explains his reaction to my phone call the other day.
***
Aiden's POV
The Paris Investors have finally signed the deal. After countless meetings of negotiations and strategizing. MK Cosmetics was set to launch its latest product—an anti-aging serum designed to redefine luxury skincare.
MK Cosmetics is known for its luxury makeup, fragrance, and skincare products—it ranked in the top five best-selling cosmetics in Los Angeles.
With this new product, we are about to take over the market space. This wasn't just another expansion, this was a statement. A testament to our place in the society.
To mark the occasion, the management team has put together an exclusive Launch Party at THE GRAND MONARCH HOTEL. Everything has been carefully prepared— the venue, the guest list, and the press coverage.
As I adjusted my cufflinks in front of the mirror, my phone buzzed.
Annabel: Are you ready?
I smirked, texting back…
Me: Absolutely, see you in a minute.
***
The soft melodic strums of the harp serenaded the grand ballroom. Its sound glides over the soft murmur of conversations. The sweet aroma from intercontinental buffets set at the left corner of the ballroom. The scent of the champagne lingered in the air. The waiters in crisp white uniforms glided between elegantly dressed guests. Everything was perfect.
The lights cast a warm golden glow against the sleek decor. The floral decorations stood tall complementing the ambiance of the room. Everything spoke of elegance, indeed it's going to be a night to remember.
Descending the marble stairs at the entrance, I felt the warmness of Annabel's hand curled up in mine. She looked stunning—poised, effortlessly captivating.
Tonight was not just about MK Cosmetics, it was about Power, influence, and strategic networking. As I scanned through the room, taking in the faces of Celebrities, Investors, and Media personnel, I knew for sure that this was just the beginning.
My parents also were not left out. They are proud of the accomplishments I have achieved since I became CEO. I have given them something to sway their minds off the childbearing issue.
As we settled in, the Host took the stage, microphone in his hand.
"Ladies and gentlemen, if I may have your attention…"
The room quieted, all eyes turning toward the spotlight. I exhaled, setting aside whatever tension I felt. This was my moment. MK Cosmetics' moment.
Taking Annabel's hand in mine, I led her toward the stage.
I lifted my glasses to make a toast, the golden liquid catching the light as I stood on the stage of the grand ballroom.
"To new beginnings, to innovation, and to a future where MK Cosmetics continues to set the standard for luxury." My voice was smooth, yet commanding. The crowd lifted their glasses in response, applause trickling through the room.
While exchanging pleasantries, my phone kept buzzing in my pocket.
The first ring, then a second, then a third ring—this caller must be persistent. I took a glance at Annabel- still engaged in conversations with a few guests. I quickly excused myself to the restroom to take the call.
Once inside, I exhaled and pulled out my phone. Already irritated by the consistent calls.
"Who could this be?" I muttered under my breath, unlocking the screen.
A message came in almost instantly.
Unknown Number: You don't need to ignore me. It's Sarah—the lady from the bar. We need to see. It's important.
My pulse spiked. My grip on the phone tightened.
Sarah? After all this time? How could she have gotten my contact?
My breath seized like I had just seen a ghost. I had tried to live past this feeling for two months now.
My reflection in the mirror stared back at me.
This was the last thing I needed.