Chapter 22 A LAST MINUTE HEADS - UP
"This wasn't part of the plan, Brion," I spoke into the receiver, my annoyance filtering through. "Not only did you let me work alone in the company while you took care of your pressing need, but you are telling me I need to represent you in the meet and greet?"
"I'm sorry, Nova," he apologized, his tone regretful. "I didn't know things would turn out this way, I swear."
"Can't you take care of it after the meeting? It's not like your investors will die if you delay it for a day or two?" I plopped down on the couch in the living room, and crossed my legs, my gaze going over to my babies who were playing with their Legos.
"I don't think it can wait, Nova."
"But -"
"Are you worried about the kid? Someone will be there in an hour to help you look after them while you leave."
"You know, that's not what I'm worried about, Brion. I don't want to freaking attend the meet and greet!" I was almost yelling out now, my frustration taking the best of me.
This wasn't how things were supposed to go. He promised me he would take care of this, only to back out at the last minute. "You realize how bad I am with this."
Years in the business world didn't train me enough for such meetings. I always went with Brion or found an excuse not to go.
"Everything starts with a step, Nova," he tried once more, to get me to see things how he was, but I wasn't. "I will make it up to you when I come back, I promise."
"Brion -"
"You've got this, Nova. Turn heads and break your ankle while dancing. I will take you on a date when I return, I guarantee."
"Brion -"
"Love you, honey bunny." Making kissing sounds at me, he disconnected before I could tell him.
"F-damn him!" I muttered under my breath, so as not to startle my babies, whose focuses were on the Legos they were playing, and not on me.
Sighing, I relaxed on the couch, thinking of the meet and greet with the other workers. So far, I have only made friends with three, Astrid being my favourite. I hardly engaged in conversation with the others because they were more of fan girls. Each encounter with them always left me drained because I had to smile while answering most of their questions and trying not to react to their squeals.
After I ran through what I needed the home sitter to help me with and made certain my babies were okay with her, I went upstairs to get dressed. Mara, the new babysitter Brion employed, was a darling. She was almost like Astrid, and that made me all that willing to let my babies stay with her. Not only that, but BRION assured me he knew who she was, letting me put my guard down around her, enough to let her stay with my kids all night.
I had my bath and got dressed, ready for the meet and greet, something I never planned on attending, but was forced to go to because of that damned traitor, Brion.
Walking over to my mirror, which took up my entire dressing area, I posed as if for a photograph.
I felt like a million bucks in my stunning purple dress, perfectly hugged by the fitted bodice and flowing skirt. Of course, it was tailor-made. Even though I detested going for such occasions, I had dresses I got in case of a situation like this, or else I would have gone on last-minute shopping after my call with Brion. The subtle slit on my left thigh added a touch of sophistication and allure, and the vibrant violet hue looked almost regal against my skin.
My six-inch golden heels elongated my legs, making them seem longer than ever, something I had always loved. Heels gave me this sense of accomplishment that flats never did, even though I would always choose flats over heels anytime, any day. Comfort in place of class.
I adorned my ears and neck with exquisite jewels, adding a touch of luxury to my overall look. For my hair, I styled it in a sleek princess bun, with two delicate golden strands framing my face, curled to perfection. It took me close to an hour to perfect my looks because I wanted to turn heads. Not just a few, but that of everyone is present in the meet and greet.
The purple dress brought out the brightness in my eyes, and I couldn't help but smile as I glimpsed myself in the mirror. I looked ready for tonight.
To complete my look, I took my golden purse from the table I placed it on, as I turned once more to the mirror, posing yet again for the non-existent photography.
I checked the time on my golden wristwatch, sighing when I realized it was time to leave. As confident as my dressing made me feel, I couldn't help but feel dread pulling at the pit of my stomach at the thought of being surrounded by squealing fans all night. I could already tell it would be an exhausting day for me.
"You look gorgeous," Mara gasped when I walked out of my room, after checking on my sleeping babies, her eyes almost dropping to the fall, her jaws open, and her expression one of awe. "Like an angel," she added with a whisper, staring at me with stars in her eyes.
"Thanks." I twirled around for her, grinning.
"Perfect!" She clapped. "You look like a prince - Oops! I left something on fire!" Chuckling, she dashed towards the kitchen, while I walked to the door, calling behind me for her to take care of the house in my absence, to which she responded with an "Aye, Aye, Captain."
I was almost at the door when someone knocked on it. Smiling at the thought of Brion being the one on the other side since he was the only one aside from Mara who knew the place, I opened the door, stopping short when my gaze locked with that of the person standing in front of me, with a bouquet.