Y/N's POV
"Actually, it's from the office," I lied to her, trying to keep my voice steady.
Emma gave me a knowing look but didn't push further. "Okay, let's go. We need to get you ready for tomorrow."
I frowned in confusion. "Why?"
Emma sighed dramatically. "I want you to look stunning in front of Kayden. I mean, he should regret what he did."
I laughed, shaking my head. "Do you really think I should talk to James about this?"
Emma nodded firmly. "Yeah, he's your best friend, after all."
I sighed. "I will, but… I need to confirm a few things first."
Emma rolled her eyes. "What else do you need to confirm now?"
We decided to eat something before looking for an outfit for tomorrow. As we browsed through my wardrobe, I sighed. "I don't want to show off, Emma."
She smirked. "Yeah, I know… Oh well, I have an office blouse and skirt if you want."
"Oh really? Just give me the blouse. I already have a formal black pant… Your skirt will be too much."
She nodded. "Okay, whatever you say. You'll look perfect, but we still need to do your makeup."
I nodded as she handed me a light pink silk blouse. It was elegant and fit me perfectly. After trying it on, we decided on a hairstyle too.
"You should do a messy bun and wear those earrings James gave you," Emma suggested excitedly.
I smiled softly. "Yeah, that sounds good."
Emma clapped her hands. "And I'll do a light pinkish makeup look for you." She was already imagining how I'd look, and I couldn't help but laugh.
As I sat on my bed, a heavy feeling settled in my chest. Aah, I have to face him tomorrow… I felt nervous about Kayden's behavior. He had once said he liked me, but I knew I shouldn't dwell on that. I should move on, live my life as I did before. Because somehow, I thought he would be my comfort zone, someone who would protect me… But now? He had every right to live his life however he wanted.
I smiled bitterly to myself. Look at you, Y/N. You really thought he would love you or stay by your side? I let out a dry chuckle. A burden like me… That's what Lucas's girlfriend used to call me. I don't have the strength to fight with people. I just run away from danger… And nobody wants a girl like that.
Suddenly, my phone buzzed with a message.
???: Baby, I am so happy about that night.
I rolled my eyes. I knew exactly who this was—that stupid thief.
???: The way you touched my face… I loved it. I wish I could be with you every day.
I smiled at the message, but deep down, I knew the truth. If you knew my life, you would leave me too, stupid thief. I didn't bother replying.
The rest of the evening passed by quickly. I did some house chores, made dinner, and ate with Emma. We talked about the engagement arrangements, discussing what needed to be done. Emma even called her parents, and they spoke with me. It made me happy, at least for a little while.
But as the night settled in, my thoughts drifted back to tomorrow. What if he doesn't want to see me? What if he breaks the friendship we had? The uncertainty gnawed at me.
To distract myself, I played some music and eventually drifted off to sleep.
---
The next morning, I woke up early and went through my usual routine. I still had an hour before I needed to leave when Emma burst into my room with a bag full of makeup.
"We're doing a simple but stunning look," she announced cheerfully.
After we finished, I was about to take a taxi when Emma stopped me. "No need. I already called Max."
Soon, Max arrived, and the three of us got into his car.
Max glanced at me and smiled. "You look beautiful, sister. My baby did a great job." He kissed Emma's hand, making her giggle.
Emma turned to me. "Yeah, baby, tell her she needs to look good everywhere she goes. Looking good means having confidence. People will think twice before saying something bad about us."
I nodded. "Yeah, you're right."
Max added, "Yes, Y/N, you look beautiful, but remember—you need to be confident and bold in your official work."
I nodded, taking a deep breath. Soon, we arrived at the office. I stepped out of the car and made my way inside, heading straight for my cabin. As I entered, I saw Mr. Ben already standing there.
"Ah, Uncle Ben, good morning," I greeted him with a smile.
"Good morning, Y/N. Here, take these files and hand them over to Mr. Scott's personal assistant."
I blinked in surprise. "Personal assistant?"
Mr. Ben nodded. "Yes. He hired a personal assistant because he said you'd be busy, and she could take care of other office tasks."
I nodded slowly, grabbing the files and making my way to Kayden's office. Knocking twice, I heard his voice from inside.
"Come in."
As I entered, my eyes immediately landed on Cassie—leaning far too close to Kayden. They were both looking at his laptop screen, seemingly oblivious to my presence.
Clearing my throat, I stepped forward. "Here. Mr. Ben asked me to hand these files to the personal assistant. That must be you, right?"
Cassie finally looked at me, and so did Kayden.
"Yeah. Cassie, take these files and set them in my locker," Kayden instructed.
She nodded, reaching for the documents. I couldn't help but notice her attire—a very short, tight red dress, paired with bold red lipstick. She looked as if she were heading to a party rather than the office.
I sighed internally. "I should leave now."
Just as I turned to go, Kayden spoke. "Wait. Bring two cups of coffee to my office."
His tone was distant, professional… He didn't even say my name.
I swallowed the lump in my throat and nodded. "Alright, sir."
Cassie smirked. "Kayden, I want black coffee."
I forced a polite smile. "Okay."
As I walked out, I let out a shaky breath. Kayden… she's allowed to call you that? I smiled sadly to myself. It was clear where I stood now.
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