Chapter 16: THE BUSINESS GATHERING

“And you two had to make him so uncomfortable; now he is having a hard time.” 

“I'm sorry, mum; I just couldn't come up with another way to let him take out his anger on dad. I mean, he is the one who started all of this,” I said, pointing at dad. Mum immediately glared at him, and he looked away, refusing to look Mum straight in the eyes.

“I clearly told you to let the poor boy breathe, but you had to go all out to carry the family legacy.”

“I was just angry back then, but now I know better. I just miss the way I used to be with him. I want our relationship back, so I'm trying so hard.”

“You two are something else,” Mum said, shaking her head hopelessly.

“Emily, what did you do to Charles that your brother is so worked up whenever you mention his name?” I know he was going to ask; stuff like this doesn't escape my dad's ears.

“I did something terrible, and I have tried to apologise a couple times, but it seems it's not what saying I'm sorry can solve. I better go check up on Xender and see why he is not coming to finish up his breakfast.”

I excused myself just to get away from more questions. I also didn't want to talk about it; if I could turn back the hands of the clock, I wouldn't have made the same decision that I did.

I have lived every day of my life in England with the guilt of my crime. I never really knew that Xender was also mad at me.

I find him in the backyard of our house. He was standing close to the swimming pool, staring out blankly.

“What are you thinking about with that seriousness on your face? I asked, calling his attention as I stood besides him. 

“Nothing much; I just remember how close our family used to be. I feel like we drift apart because of me.”

“That's not true; we had a misunderstanding like every other family could have. We were all too busy to get together and put our past mistakes behind us.

You don't have to stay mad at dad anymore; he is really sorry for making your life difficult years ago. He has always wanted to apologise, but he lacks the courage to approach you.”

“And you decide to help him?”

“That was the least I could do. Please forgive him already; the old man is already dying to go play some baseball with you.”

“I have never held any grudges against him. I just thought he was too angry to talk to me.”

"Well, go play baseball with him and talk it out.”

“I will consider it.”

“And also, you need to start getting interested in the family business. For crying out loud, you have a share in the company, a big share.”

“I know, but my hands are tied at the moment. Can't you handle things for me until I'm ready to carry them on?”

“I can do it with the help of someone.”

“Who?”

“Charles, I mean, he is the only one we trust enough that is close to this family.” I said, avoiding his glance, but I knew he was suspecting me already.

“Are you sure you want him for the business or for yourself?” He caught me; I knew he would.

“Both. I really wish he could forgive me.”

“It's up to him to decide, but I will tell him about it and get back to you. I'm sorry if I sounded harsh earlier with my words.”

“Nah, I totally deserve it. I would have acted the same if I were in your position.”

“He still needs more time before he can accept your apologies or even see you.”

“I know. I will do my best to avoid him. Are you also invited to the business gathering?”

“Yep, Dad wants me to meet up with someone, so I have to be there.”

“I guess I will be seeing Charles anyway,” I said as I tried to hide the excitement in my voice.

“Don't get too excited; he might pretend he doesn't know you.”

“I don't really mind, as long as I can see him.”

“Let's just go back inside, or mum will end up coming to find us, and you know the consequences.”

I laughed out loud as the thought of my mum forcing me to eat a cold breakfast appeared in my head. I held on to his hand as we headed back inside.

Alda’s POV

"Sweetie, are you ready to go?” My dad called out for me from the living room.

“Just a minute,” I said, applying a little makeup to my face to cover up my swollen eyes. I never knew mum’s words to me would make me cry so hard.

I looked at myself in the mirror, loving the outcome of my makeup. I put a little lipstick on and grabbed my bag, rushing downstairs immediately.

“The reflection of your beauty is hurting my eyes.” My dad said this when he saw me.

“Very funny, dad, but you really don't have to tell me how I look. I'm going to end up being more conscious of myself.”

“But you look beautiful.” 

“Thanks dad.” I thanked him as I looked around for my mum.

“Your mum left about ten minutes ago; she had a meeting with one of her clients. Let's start heading out.” He said that and offered me his hand, which I smiled and accepted.

“Remember what we talked about; I don't want you crying because of that jerk. Once the divorce papers are ready, I will send them to him.”

“Yes dad”

“And when all these are over, I will introduce you to someone. He is very lovely, and you are going to like him.”

“Come on, dad, don't you think I need a break? I'm already exhausted from having to deal with Seth.”

"Well, I'm glad it's going to be over soon enough.” I was pushed to tell my parents everything, and I'm glad I did. It took me everything to end a six-month marriage.

I was scared of what people would say, but who cares? I still have more to do with my life. I can do this; I can let go of Seth. He doesn't deserve any more chances.

Mum was right, Anna was right, and so was dad. I need to move on. I took a deep breath as I tried to compose myself.

“Are you okay, sweetie?” Dad asked, and I'm guessing he saw how uncomfortable I was.

“Yes, let's go sign this contract; I can feel a good vibe surrounding it already.”

“That's my baby girl.” I smiled brightly at him as we entered the car and drove off.

On getting to the beautiful hotel where the gathering was held, my dad introduced me to a lot of his business partners and colleagues.

I had to smile on my face as I paid my respects since they were all elderly men and women. By the time we were done, I could feel my cheeks hurting from having to smile too much, and my legs were shaking from standing for hours.

I sneeked out, briefly, to have a glass of water. Just when I thought I had finally gotten a few minutes to myself, someone tapped me on the shoulder from behind.

“Dad, I need a time out. I will join you up later,” I said without burdering to check if it was really him.

“Dad?” The deep voice I heard behind me had me frozen for seconds. It can't be. Lord, please, it can't be who I thought it was. I slowly turned to face whatever my fate was.

And it finally turned out that my fate was cursed. Why him? Why do I keep running into this guy over and over again?”

“Hi, I would love my shirt back." The glare in his eyes as he came close to me had me trembling on the spot.

Oh God, I am doomed.