CHAPTER 6. MINGLING DOESN'T HURT.

JASMINE’S POV

 

Coming back from the cemetery, where I had to pay some respect to my late dad, it was a different feeling altogether.

 

Perhaps because this was the first time I was doing that.

 

I felt pain all over again, like, why would they attempt to kill me and then go as far as having a fake tomb for me with my name, ‘Nadin Scott,’ fully written on it?

 

Well, that was what it should be, as they carried the news that I was dead. In retrospect, it wasn't clear to me why Ethan was there.

 

Like, what does he have to do with us after conspiring for our deaths?

 

Hasn't he done enough already?

 

Thank God, I left immediately I noticed him even before he got close. That could be a mess because he might start suspecting things, and I don't want that.

 

At the grave, I had promised my dad that I would make Ethan fall for me again, and then I would abandon him and probably kill him if I had my way. Same with my stepmother and stepsister. But before then, I will make them experience the taste of losing everything, including themselves. I want all of them, who have killed my father, to never have peace until the last day they give up the ghost.

 

While I was still wallowing in these thoughts, a knock on the door distracted me.

 

I knew it was no one apart from Luciano. “Come right in; the door is open,” I said to him.

 

When he got in, he sat on the chair just beside my bed, where I was. “How did it go today?” he quickly asked, looking all smiley.

 

I returned the smile, and I seemed to have forgotten every pain I felt before he got in. “Very well. I think you just got back now because I knew you were away while I got in.”

 

“Yeah, as a matter of fact, I just got in now and decided to check on you before anything else. Well, it's a wonderful thing you visited your dad's grave, as today marked the exact one year he died.”

 

“Exactly. That was why I took it upon myself that I have to go today.” I said with little or no emotion, I wouldn't want to kerp shoeimg him my weak side.

 

“Has it been long since you got back?” he asked, looking all concerned.

 

“Let's say an hour ago, or roughly an hour and 30 minutes ago. I didn't get home immediately; I visited the nearby restaurant and tried their dish before I got home.” I replied, grinning from ear to ear at the way he paid attention whenever I tried to explain something to him.

 

One thing I've noticed about Luciano is how intentional he can be with me most of the time. I mean, he wants to know the details when it comes to me.

 

I had the urge to let him know that I saw Ethan at the location, but then, on second thought, there was no need for that.

 

Likewise, I settled for the other news I wanted to tell him. “I was able to submit the application this morning. I was surprised they opened their website again, and I took advantage of it. It was a late submission, and to my surprise, before I got back, I was among those who qualified for the interview, which is tomorrow,” I said with so much enthusiasm.

 

“Oh, that sounds interesting. I pray you get the job since it's your choice, but left to me…

 

Sensing what he wanted to say, I quickly interrupted, “You know we don't have to go through this again. We have already agreed on this, and you gave me your support.”

 

“Yeah, sure. I wish you well, Jasmine. I hope you are doing the right thing, and you will be fine.” He gave me his words with continuous nodding.

 

I understood he simply wanted my company, as it seemed he was already getting fond of me, but right now, I can't help it. “Of course I will. Thank you so much.”

 

“You are always welcome. So, will you be interested in attending a celebration banquet with me?” he proposed.

 

Even before he could finish, I was nodding my head like someone who was expectant. “Yes. Yes.”

 

“There you go.” He handed me the bag I had failed to notice all the while he got in. “Here, that's the dress you will have on for the event. The ladies are to be dressed in red, and I got something nice for you. I hope you like it.”

 

I quickly seized the bag. “Why not? You really have eyes for good things. Besides, how did you know my size?”

 

“Are you kidding me right now? You know, that sounds hilarious. Why wouldn't I know it? I have my eyes on you.” 

He said that, using the first two fingers to demonstrate that.

“People out there need to see this beauty I behold every day; you can't be hidden in here all day.” He teased me.

 

I laughed so hard at the way Luciano could be so playful and free with me, like we'd known each other for ages.

 

“Oh! This looks so beautiful. Look at the crystal beads and fur all over.” I almost screamed out in joy the moment I brought the dress out of the bag. Even without trying it on, I knew it was my perfect size. “This must have cost a fortune.”

 

“It's nothing. Besides, you’re worth everything and more.”

 

Those words from him forced a smile on my face. “Thank you once again.”

 

“Don't you ever get sick of thanking me? I have had enough of it from you already, and I won't take this one. Anyway, I got this from a new clothing brand. The name is Kryptonite.”

 

“I can imagine that. This cloth already seems like a weak point and an addiction to me because what is all this beauty I am beholding?” I commented so loudly.

 

“Enough of the hype. I need to go and prepare so we can go together.” Luciano said and stood up to leave my room.

 

That's cool.

 

I am quite a socialite, so mingling doesn't hurt.

 

But then, I knew I wouldn't spend so much time outside, so I could get back early and rehearse for the interview the next day. I wouldn't want to take a chance with that. My next line of action is solely dependent on that, so I have to give it my best shot.