59

I swept the tears in my eyes. I never felt more connected in a story than this one.

This is the best story that I have ever read.

When everything was going well, Claire w oke up the next day in a different place, far from what she remembers, that’s when she knew Shanina was back. While Wilder on the other hand saw Cole and Chantal together thinking that he is cheating with Claire, Chantal almost said that they’re just siblings. Nothing is going on between Cole and Claire because Claire is a neglected child by his father. Claire’s mother had an affair with a wealthy man, but she’s just a maid and he is already married so she cut their affair but it was too late because she’s already pregnant with Claire at that moment. Her mother doesn’t even know she met her biological father.

Aidan tried to tell Claire that Cole is cheating on her but she just shrugged it off. In a family dinner where everyone is invited, Aidan confesses to Claire that he still loves her after all this year’s, unfortunately Ava heard this, she was excruciatingly mad, she said everything that can ruin Claire, her mouth slipping that they’re just step sisters. Aidan was too stunned to speak when he heard it. Now he knows the truth, Avery is not the father of Shanna, the little girl he met at the hospital. It was his. He was overjoyed that he proposed to Claire and called off his engagement with Cherry. Claire happily accepts and they get married but in the end after he kisses Claire, she flinches and smirks. Guess the nymphomaniac is still within her, on good terms with the nerdy Claire that he loves.

I smiled as I closed the book. I went back to the hotel with a heavy heart but it wasn’t because I’m sad, it’s just that the story stayed with me, and I need more time to think about this story.

The next day I was prepared to see Wilder again. Maybe it was the book that really speaks to me, I should be scared. I should be terrified of what’s going to happen. I have the best people around me. I know they will always support me.

“Fertine.” Freeda called me. It held my hand. It looks worried. I am even worried about myself.

I guess they are done screwing around huh?

I didn’t bring up what I saw, I just want to remove that from my mind.

I don’t want to mess this up. The dinner is tonight.

I stood in the center of the elegantly decorated room, my heart aflutter with a desire for the dinner party to unfold flawlessly. Every detail, every element, had been meticulously planned, and now it was time to bring my vision to life.

With each passing minute, my nerves heightened, intermingled with an exhilarating rush of excitement. I had invited a diverse group of guests, individuals with varied backgrounds and interests, all of whom I hoped would connect and engage in meaningful conversations.

It was my earnest wish that this gathering would be a tapestry of laughter, shared stories, and newfound connections.

As I surveyed the room, taking in the exquisite floral arrangements and the soft glow of candlelight, a sense of responsibility settled upon my shoulders. I longed for each guest to feel welcome, to be enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality.

The fragrance of tantalizing dishes wafted through the air, adding to the ambiance of anticipation, as I hoped to indulge their palates and ignite their taste buds with a culinary journey.

My mind swirled with a whirlwind of details. Would the seating arrangement foster engaging conversations?

Would the carefully curated playlist create an enchanting backdrop? Did I remember to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences?

Doubt occasionally crept in, whispering insecurities, but I pushed them aside, reminding myself of the countless hours poured into planning and preparation.

As the first guests arrived, their smiles and cheerful greetings served as a balm to my anxious soul. I took a moment to greet each one, extending heartfelt welcomes and guiding them towards the beautifully adorned dining area. Their excitement mirrored my own, a shared anticipation that fortified my determination to ensure an unforgettable evening.

As the conversation flowed and laughter filled the air, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. The initial moments of social awkwardness were gently eclipsed by genuine connections and spirited exchanges. Guests, both familiar faces and newfound friends, conversed animatedly, their voices harmonizing like a symphony of camaraderie and shared experiences.

With a glance towards the kitchen, I watched as the dedicated chefs meticulously crafted each course, their passion evident in every plate that emerged. I hoped the culinary delights would tantalize the senses, transcending the boundaries of taste and leaving a lasting impression on each palate.

Throughout the night, I moved among the guests, a silent conductor orchestrating conversations and ensuring that everyone felt included. I reveled in the laughter that echoed off the walls, the clinking of glasses as toasts were raised, and the genuine delight that danced in their eyes.

It was a joyous symposium of connections forged and memories in the making. As the evening drew to a close, a bittersweet sentiment settled upon me. The dinner party had exceeded my expectations, the atmosphere brimming with a sense of unity and genuine appreciation.

I felt grateful for the collective energy and the shared moments of joy, knowing that these memories would endure long after the last guest bid their farewells. In that moment, as the final notes of laughter drifted into the night, I realized the true essence of a successful dinner party.

It was not merely about the food or the decor, but about the bonds formed, the stories exchanged, and the magical alchemy that transformed strangers into friends.

And with a contented sigh, I reflected on the evening's triumph, knowing that I had created an experience that would be cherished by all who had gathered around that table. I wanted to throw the meeting thing under the bus but I can’t. Dad wanted this to happen.

He can’t just show up here and ruin everything. I put my effort and work hard for this. I won’t let him do that.

I looked at Freeda and smiled. I stand up and walk towards them.

I smile at them. Although that is not genuine. I still try to make it look like one.

“Athena, iha. Remember what I told you before?” She sweetly asked.

I nodded at this.

I didn’t bother to look where he was. I don’t want our eyes to meet. That’s why I keep my eyes on his mom.

My mind was debating whether to look at him or not.

My hand was shaking and my heart was beating fast, my chest was heaving! What’s this? I’m about to have a heart attack just because of its presence!

“Meet my son! Wilder Calazar.” She said while trying to move me to look at his son.

Shit. Shit. Shit.

He is indeed the son it refers to! I kinda know that but I’m hoping he wasn’t.

“Hey, can I talk to you for a second? Please excuse us.” Hades said saving me from a very awkward situation.

The people there have not yet agreed but he asked me not far away.

“Fertine. I know that your first love is here but you need to calm down. He is the son of your major investors. Set aside your personal matters and focus on your business. An excellent business woman knows how to handle things right. Keep that in mind.” He said, making me understand everything.

The sun began its descent, casting a warm golden hue across the picturesque backyard where Fertine and Hades sat beneath the shade of a towering oak tree. Fertine’s fingers nervously twirled a strand of her chestnut hair, her gaze fixed on the ground as if searching for answers in the patterns of the grass. Hades, her older brother, observed her intently, his piercing blue eyes filled with concern and determination.

“Fertine,” Hades spoke in a calm yet commanding tone, breaking the heavy silence that enveloped them. “I know you’re anxious about seeing your ex at the party tonight, but remember, showing weakness is not the answer.”

Fertine looked up, her hazel eyes meeting Hades’ gaze. She admired her brother’s strength and wisdom, seeking solace in his presence. “But Hades, it’s so hard,” she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. “I still have feelings for him, and I fear that seeing him again will unravel the carefully constructed walls I’ve built around my heart.”

Hades reached out and gently grasped Fertine’s hand, offering her a reassuring squeeze. “I understand, little sister. But you must remember your worth and your strength. You are more than this heartache. Tonight, you have an opportunity to show the world—and yourself—that you are resilient.”

Fertine’s brows furrowed, her vulnerability peeking through the cracks of her stoic façade. “But what if he sees right through me? What if I can’t hide my emotions?”

Hades smiled, his voice filled with conviction. “Then let him see. There is no shame in feeling deeply. But I want you to hold your head high, be confident, and don’t let him see your pain. Show him that you have moved on, even if it’s not entirely true yet. Believe me, strength is the greatest armor you can wear.”

Fertine pondered her brother’s words, a mixture of hope and doubt swirling within her. She knew Hades was right; she couldn’t let her ex see the fragility that lay just beneath her composed exterior. She had to find the strength within herself to face the evening with grace and dignity.

Taking a deep breath, Fertine straightened her posture and looked into Hades’ eyes. “Thank you, Hades. Your advice means the world to me. I will do my best to embrace my strength tonight, to rise above my emotions and show the world the resilient woman I am becoming.”

Hades beamed with pride, his heart swelling with affection for his sister. “That’s my girl,” he said, his voice filled with unwavering support. “Remember, you are never alone in this journey. Lean on me whenever you need to, and together, we will weather any storm that comes your way.”

As the evening approached, Fertine felt a newfound sense of determination wash over her. With Hades by her side, she knew she could face her ex with poise and strength. The party awaited, and she was ready to embrace the challenges it presented, knowing that she had the unwavering support and guidance of her brother. Together, they would navigate the treacherous waters of heartache, and in doing so, Fertine would emerge stronger than ever before.

“Did you know that he is their son!?” I asked him furiously. He didn’t say anything.

“Oh you knew! And you still sent them invitations!” I can’t believe it, I said.

“Don’t be a coward Fertine. Deal with him. They are in the business industry especially his parents and they are invited because they are investors, as I said set aside your personal life in here.” He said calmly.

“I can’t believe you!” I said to him in disgust. “Hades, Athena don’t be rude, the Calazar’s want us all for the snacks.” Papa said to us.

I glared at Hades. He ignored that and went back to the table.

The seat arrangement is like this starting from his father, mother, me, dad, Hera’s mother, Wilder and Hades and some other investors that I don’t know of.

He is right in front of me!

I didn’t give him a look I always moved my head from right to left without looking at him.

As I walked into the bustling party, my heart raced with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. The room was filled with vibrant colors, pulsating music, and joyful laughter, yet my focus fixated on one particular detail—the seating arrangement at the table. You see, fate had decided to play a little trick on me that evening by placing me right next to my ex-boyfriend, and the mere thought of it made my stomach churn with nervous anticipation.

As I weaved through the crowd, my mind was flooded with memories of our past relationship. It was a rollercoaster ride of emotions, filled with both moments of sheer bliss and heartbreaking disappointment. Now, here I was, about to face him once again, but this time in a different context—a room full of people, all seemingly oblivious to the emotional whirlwind brewing within me.

The closer I got to the table, the more my palms grew clammy, and an invisible weight settled on my shoulders. The anxiety clenched at my chest, making it harder to breathe as I contemplated how I would navigate this potentially awkward encounter. Questions swirled in my mind like a tempestuous storm—Should I acknowledge him with a warm smile or maintain an aloof façade? Should I engage in casual conversation or simply focus on the food and the company of others?

Every step closer to the table intensified my self-awareness. I wondered if he too felt the tension that filled the air or if he was as calm and composed as he appeared from a distance. Would he remember the nuances of our past, the inside jokes, the shared secrets that once bonded us so tightly? Or had time and distance erased those memories from his mind, leaving me stranded in a sea of nostalgia?

As I finally reached the table, I could feel his presence next to me. I stole a quick glance in his direction, careful not to reveal the whirlwind of emotions raging within me. His familiar face looked calm, seemingly unaffected by our shared history. Was it a façade or genuine indifference? I couldn’t tell, and that uncertainty only fueled my nervousness further.

With a deep breath, I mustered the courage to take my seat beside him. The space between us felt like an insurmountable divide, a silent reminder of the gulf that had formed between us. The chatter of the surrounding conversations served as a temporary distraction, but my mind remained fixated on him, acutely aware of his every movement and every word he uttered.

Time seemed to slow down as the evening progressed, and I found myself oscillating between moments of nostalgia and moments of acceptance. I reminded myself that we were no longer together for a reason, that our paths had diverged and new chapters had begun. Yet, the undeniable connection we once shared lingered in the depths of my consciousness, creating a lingering sense of unease.

In the midst of this emotional turmoil, I realized that this evening was not solely about my ex or our past. It was an opportunity for growth, resilience, and embracing the present. So, I summoned the strength to engage in conversation with the other guests, to immerse myself in the lively ambiance of the party, and to focus on the new connections I could form.

As the night wore on, the nervousness gradually transformed into a quiet resolve. I realized that sitting together at the table with my ex was merely a chapter in my story, a brief moment in the grand tapestry of my life. And as I stood up, ready to face the unknowns of the future, I knew that this encounter had taught me valuable lessons about strength, resilience, and the importance of embracing the discomfort that life throws our way.

“I heard your son has an upcoming project in Italy?” Dad asked her.

“Yes. He just finished what he did in America, that’s why he’s now back here in the Philippines.”

“I’m so amazed by your work, Doctor and Engineer Calazar. I really liked it. I’m hoping that you will be the engineer of the rest house soon,” One said.

“Thank you.” He solemnly promised.

“I’m sure the woman will chase this Wilder! He’s good looking and successful.” Dad promised.

Wrong choice of topic Dad. Why do I have to bring that up?

This is business not a talk show about him!

“I don’t know about that, I’ve even heard from others that you’ve dated a model but you haven’t introduced yourself to us.” Arturo said laughing.

“It’s thorny on a woman!” Next one. He also laughed at what he was saying.

“I want to introduce the girl I’m going to marry Dad,” he answered.