Chapter 3:  The Will

Gina's POV

I stepped into Grandpa Wilson's chambers, and his warm smile enveloped me. Six years had passed since I'd last seen him, but the sparkle in his eyes remained unchanged.

"Gina, my dear," he said, opening his arms.

I rushed into his embrace, feeling a mix of joy and sadness. He was looking so frail; his once-strong shoulders now stooped, and his skin was pale and thin. I noticed the subtle signs of illness and age etched on his face. His movements were slower, his voice weaker.

"Grandpa," I whispered, tears pricking at the corners of my eyes.

He held me at arm's length, examining my face. "You've grown more beautiful, Gina. But I see shadows under your eyes. What troubles you, child?"

I took a deep breath, hesitant to burden him with my troubles. But something in his gaze reassured me.

"Julian and I...we're divorced," I said, the words still feeling foreign.

His expression turned stern, but his eyes softened. "I'll deal with him. You're safe now."

The familiar scent of old books and leather furniture enveloped me, taking me back to happier times. Six years had passed since I'd last seen him, and the excitement of reuniting with my beloved grandfather swelled in my chest.

The room was a testament to his incredible wealth and influence. As one of San Francisco's most prominent businessmen, Grandpa’s empire scattered across the world– mansions, companies, and investments that bore the Saxton name.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow through the windows, Grandpa's eyes locked onto mine.

"Gina, you're home now. You're safe."

Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as I smiled, feeling a sense of belonging I'd missed for so long.

…

Weeks had passed since my return to Saxton Villa, and I'd settled into a comfortable routine. 

Grandpa had been attentive, helping me heal from the wounds of my past. But today was different. He was attending a high-profile charity gala, and I was honored to accompany him.

As I prepared for the evening, Lana, my loyal maid, helped me into a stunning outfit. 

The designer gown hugged my curves, showcasing my slender figure. It was well-fitted, highlighting my toned shoulders and my narrow waist.

I gazed into the mirror, admiring the reflection.

My heart-shaped face was framed by long, dark hair cascading down my back in soft waves. My bright green eyes sparkled like emeralds, fringed with thick lashes. High cheekbones and a small nose added to my elegant features.

My lips, painted a subtle pink, curved into a gentle smile. The makeup was mild yet attractive, accentuating my natural beauty. My legs, long and slender, seemed to go on forever in the high heels.

Lana fastened the diamond necklace around my neck, and I felt like a million dollars.

"Ma'am, you look breathtaking," Lana whispered, stepping back to admire her handiwork.

I stood tall, confident in my appearance. 

Grandpa's eyes widened as I descended the staircase.

"Gina, you're a vision," he said, offering his arm.

I smiled, taking his arm. "Thank you, Papa."

Together, we made our way to the limousine, ready to take on the evening.

As we drove away from Saxton Villa, I felt a sense of pride and belonging. Tonight, I wasn't just Gina, the wounded wife; I was Gina Saxton.

We arrived at the grand estate, nestled in the heart of San Francisco's elite neighborhood. 

The charity gala, hosted by the city's most influential families, was an occasion of high society. The evening's purpose was to raise funds for underprivileged children, a cause close to Grandfather's heart.

As we stepped into the vast ballroom, the cream of society turned to greet us. Grandfather's presence commanded respect, and I was introduced to a flurry of dignitaries, business moguls, and socialites.

"Gina, this is Senator Thompson," Grandfather said, his voice booming across the room.

I smiled, shaking hands with the senator, as Grandfather continued introductions.

That's when I saw him – a towering figure, standing across the room. His broad shoulders and chiseled chest strained against his tailored tuxedo. His eyes, piercing blue, seemed to see right through me.

I couldn't help but stare.

His heavily built body exuded confidence, his features chiseled to perfection. Strong jawline, sharp nose, and full lips curved into a subtle smile. Dark hair, styled impeccably, framed his face.

As our eyes met, a spark of electricity ran through me.

Grandfather's voice brought me back to reality. "Gina, meet Mrs. Richardson, a renowned philanthropist."

I exchanged pleasantries, but my gaze drifted back to the mysterious stranger.

Who was he?

Grandfather noticed my interest and raised an eyebrow. "Ah, that's Alex Blackwood," he whispered. "A successful entrepreneur and investor. Quite influential in San Francisco's business circles."

I felt a flutter in my chest as Alex's eyes locked onto mine once more.

This time, he smiled.

I smiled back, my heart racing.

The room seemed to fade into the background as we exchanged a silent understanding.

Grandfather's voice broke the spell. "Shall we mingle, Gina?"

I nodded, taking his arm, but my eyes remained fixed on Alex Blackwood for the rest of the evening.

****

The evening was a successful one and it was time for us to leave. I had lost sight of my attractive shadow, Alex.

As the limousine glided through San Francisco's nighttime streets, I gazed out the window, lost in thought. 

Every now and then, my mind went back to Alex Blackwood 

His piercing blue eyes, chiseled features, and captivating smile lingered in my mind. I couldn't shake the feeling that our brief exchange had sparked something.

Grandfather's voice broke the silence. "You seemed to enjoy yourself tonight, Gina."

I turned to him, forcing a smile. "Yes, Grandpa. It was a wonderful evening."

But my thoughts drifted back to Alex.

Suddenly, the limousine swerved, tires screeching. I grasped the armrest, alarm coursing through me.

"What's happening?" Grandfather demanded, his voice firm.

The driver's panicked voice filled the intercom. "Sorry, sir! A car cut me off!"

The limousine careened out of control, spinning across the wet pavement. My stomach lurched as we collided with another vehicle.

Metal crunched and glass shattered. The world around me blurred. The air was filled with screams and I felt the iron taste of blood in my mouth.

I screamed, thrown forward, my seatbelt biting into my shoulder.

Grandfather's face contorted in pain. "Gina!"

Lana cried out, her voice muffled.

The limousine's airbags deployed, holding us in a protective cushion.

Stunned, I struggled to breathe, assessing the damage. The limousine's interior was mangled, but we were alive.

Grandfather groaned, clutching his chest. "Someone...call for help."

I fumbled for my phone, hands shaking. Managing to dial 911, I winced in pain as I saw my grandpa slowly ebbing away into unconsciousness.

Sirens pierced the darkness, growing louder. I floated in a haze, unaware of my surroundings.

Suddenly, voices penetrated the fog.

"Ma'am, can you hear me?"

A gentle touch on my shoulder.

"Ma'am, stay with us."

I struggled to open my eyes, but they felt heavy, uncooperative.

A face hovered above me – a kind-eyed stranger in a paramedic uniform.

"Grandpa..." I whispered, panic rising.

The paramedic's expression softened. "Don't worry, ma'am. Your grandfather is being taken care of. He's going to be okay."

Relief washed over me, followed by concern.

"Lana?"

"Your maid is shaken but fine," the paramedic reassured. "We're getting her out of the car now."

As the paramedic helped me out of the mangled limousine, I caught a glimpse of the wreckage. The once-sleek vehicle was now twisted metal and shattered glass.

I spotted grandpa on a nearby stretcher, oxygen mask over his face. 

Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes.

The paramedic guided me toward an ambulance. "We need to get you to the hospital, ma'am."

Everything blurred – the sirens, the voices, the chaos.

As I lay on the stretcher, darkness closed in.

The last thing I remembered was the paramedic's gentle touch and the soothing words.

****

I slowly opened my eyes, grogginess giving way to clarity. Hospital sounds surrounded me – beeping machines, muffled conversations, and the antiseptic scent.

A gentle voice spoke beside me. "Welcome back, Gina. My name is Dr. Lee. How are you feeling?"

I tried to sit up, but a sharp pain shot through my head. Dr. Lee helped me settle back onto the pillow.

"Grandpa…” I whispered, anxiety rising.

Dr. Lee's expression turned somber. "I'm so sorry, Gina. Your grandfather didn't make it. He passed away shortly after arrival."

The words hit me like a tidal wave.

No. No. No.

Tears burst forth, streaming down my face. I sobbed uncontrollably, overwhelmed by grief.

Just when I'd found my way back to him...now he's gone.

Thoughts swirled in my mind – memories of our reunion, his warm smile, and the promise of a new beginning.

Why did this happen? Why now?

Is it me? Am I a jinx? First, my marriage falls apart, and now Grandpa...

Lana entered the room, tears streaming down her face. "Ma'am, I'm so sorry..."

I held out my hand, and she took it, sitting beside me.

"We were just...starting over," I whispered, my voice cracking.

Lana squeezed my hand. "He loved you, Ma'am. He was so happy to have you back."

I cried harder, mourning the loss of the one person who'd always been there for me.

In that moment, I felt lost, alone, and broken.

****

The funeral had passed in a blur. Now, seated in Grandfather's study, I faced the lawyer, Mr. Jenkins.

Lana sat beside me, her presence a quiet comfort.

Mr. Jenkins cleared his throat, his expression somber. "As you know, Gina, your grandfather's will is quite straightforward."

I nodded, bracing myself for the worst.

"Your grandfather has left his entire estate, including Saxton Enterprises, to you, Gina."