"Pardon me, guys," I quickly apologized, chuckling as I wiped the remnants of my sudden laughter from the corner of my lips.
It had been a wonderful evening one of warmth, laughter, shared secrets, and new beginnings. For the first time in a long time, I felt free… light. I had genuinely enjoyed spending time with Leon and Alicia. There was something about her a connection that went beyond polite smiles and shared conversations. I could feel it deep down: Alicia was going to be more than just a friend.
"If you'll excuse us," Leon began, rising to his feet, "we'd like to take our leave." Aurora, you've been a wonderful hostess," he added sincerely. "I loved every bite of the food. My compliments to your chef. "I'm glad you enjoyed it," I replied with a warm smile.
Alicia stepped closer and held my hand. "Aurora, I truly look forward to our friendship."
"Definitely, Alicia."
We embraced like old friends and our husbands exchanged respectful handshakes. Moments later, the couple departed, leaving behind a memory that felt both familiar and fresh.
"I had fun tonight, Mark," I said, leaning my head against his shoulder as we stood by the doorway watching the taillights disappear.
"Anything for my gorgeous wife," he whispered, kissing my temple. Just then, my phone rang.
I frowned slightly when I saw the caller ID and picked it up. "Hello…?"
A strained, familiar voice echoed through the receiver. "I'm sorry… I really wish I could help you," I replied after a pause. "But I can't."
I ended the call with a heavy sigh. Mark had already noticed the shift in my mood.
"Hey, is everything alright? "It was Mom…"
Mark raised a brow. "Madam Kim? "No, my foster mother." I sank slowly into the nearest seat. "She said my foster father has been missing for days. She's scared… I feel terrible, Mark. No matter what happened in the past, they raised me. I never lacked anything growing up with them."
Mark nodded slowly, his tone calm. "Don't worry. I'm sure he's fine. And about your mother… I'll see what I can do."You would?" I beamed, the weight in my chest slightly lifted. "I'd be so grateful." Mark smiled at me, but once I turned away, a dark smirk played on his lips.
"Yeah… unless of course, she's already a widow by then." His thoughts twisted like smoke in the shadows.
Meanwhile at the Riverson Mansion…
"Gianna, stop throwing a tantrum. You're not a little girl anymore." Oh, I'm not? Huh!" Gianna snapped, tossing a pillow across the room. "Then stop treating me like one."Just get out of my room! I don't want to see you!" She pointed dramatically at the door.
"Gianna, darling, I know I've hurt you… but please, just listen to me this once—"
"We have nothing to talk about, Mother."
SLAM! The door burst open.
"What on earth is going on here?!" William barked, stepping into a disoriented room filled with tension and scattered cushions. His gaze darted between mother and daughter. "For heaven's sake, are you two at each other's throats again?"
"Uncle William," Gianna said without hesitation, her voice shaking but firm. "I want my mother out of this mansion and out of my life forever." Gianna!" William gasped. "How can you say such a thing? She's your mother!Mother?" Gianna scoffed bitterly. "The woman who ripped me from the arms of the man I loved? Who chose status over my happiness?"
"She did what she thought was best for you."
"No, Uncle, spare me the 'she meant well' talk. It was my life my heart, my choice. And she destroyed it." Gianna stood tall, her voice laced with heartbreak. "It's either she leaves or I do."
Silence.
Emma choked back a sob. "William, it's okay… I'll just leave." And just like that, she turned and walked out, her tears falling freely.
"You should take it easy on your mother," William said softly, cupping Gianna's cheeks.
"Uncle…" Gianna looked away, swallowing the guilt. "Can you send me Aurora's address? She offered me a job and I want to take it. You know I've always hated business I'd rather be in the spotlight." William gave her a sharp look. "Fine. But this doesn't mean you're quitting your responsibilities at the office."
"I promise, I won't."
"Good. When you get to Aurora's mansion, tell her to expect my call. I need to discuss something important with her." Yes, Boss," Gianna teased with a mock salute. William stifled a laugh, shaking his head. "It's already late. Get some rest, Gianna."
Alone in her room again, Gianna sank onto her bed. Her heart was torn between pain, pride, and a fresh beginning.