Chapter 7 - His Confrontation

Marietta's POV

I could tell Michael could see the anger in my eyes. 

"Thank you, sir, for coming." Katty's voice interrupted our conversation. 

Michael lingered for some minutes before turning towards the crowd. I blinked back my tears. 

"You are strong, Etta." I reminded myself.

"Thank you for coming," Mr. Lucian climbed the stage. Giving each of the star representatives from different countries a handshake.

"Ms. Etta, I would love to meet with you after the party," Mr. Lucian shook my hand while I nodded.

Walking out of the stage, I made my way outside. 

"Are you okay" Clara my assistant asked.

"Yes. I just need some air," I heaved a sigh. 

"Do you need me to come with you?" Clara questioned.

Looking around, I felt relieved seeing that Michael had gone. "No, I'll be fine on my own,"

Upon getting outside, a masculine voice echoed from behind. At first, I thought it was one of those disturbing reporters. But I was wrong. 

"Michael? What the hell do you want from me?!" I flinched. 

"I want nothing much. I just want to know if Valerie is mine." he motioned towards me.

Honestly, I can't help but notice his features. Michael seems to have grown much mature. It's been three years after all.

"Are you being serious right now?" I lashed out in anger. 

Controlling myself from tearing up, I walked past Michael without saying more words. 

"Valerie. Is she my daughter?" 

"You do not have a right to call her name, Michael! I have nothing to say to you!" I spoke between gritted teeth.

They all abandoned me during my pregnancy. All those years, I suffered alone in a strange land.

THREE YEARS AGO

“Etta!” 

“Yes boss,” I responded quickly. Rushing towards her with my head bowed.

I’ve been working in this restaurant for two weeks now, just to feed myself and my baby. 

And I’ve done my best to hold this job. It’s my only way of survival.

“Marietta! Damn it!” she cursed.

Picking up one of the cups filled with water, she smashed it in my face.

I tightened my fist in anger, but I knew I could not speak a word.

“What did I do this time around boss? I can fix it. I’m sorry,” I apologized.

“Fix it? Huh? Have you seen yourself in the mirror?” She started.

“Myself? In the Mirror? I look okay.” I stuttered.

“You look so local, Marietta! I’m sick, and tired of this back-and-forth! It’s been two weeks now, Etta.” she lashed out, throwing a pair of super short skirts, and a suit in my face. 

“You refused to put this on for a couple of weeks now,” she flinched.

“That’s because it’s too–” my boss interrupts me even before I finish my words.

“Because it’s short, right?” she nodded angrily.

“Good then. Leave my work. I’m sure I’ll get someone willing to put on the shorts, and suits you refused. I can’t be losing my customers because of your lackadaisical attitude,” She shouted. 

“I’ll do better, please. Do not send me away.” I pleaded.

“Well, that won’t be necessary anymore, because you are fired!” She flinched.

“Leave my restaurant.” 

“What about my pay for the days I’ve worked for?” I requested.

I needed the money for my baby’s diapers. I’ve got no money on me.

I’ve been waiting for today’s income.

I’ve taken up this part-time job because I need to survive with my baby.

“You have the guts to ask me for money?!” She chuckled angrily.

“Security! Throw this thrash out of my restaurant!” she shouted.

As I walked anxiously on the street, I thought of where to get my baby’s diaper for today.

All my hopes have been dashed.

I was lost in thoughts when my gaze fell on some diapers placed near the door of a supermarket, and nobody was keeping an eye on it.

I stopped and bit my lips nervously.

“Just one pack, Etta,” I whispered, as my heart raced faster.

I took a shaky breath, my gaze darting around. 

People moved in and out of the store, but they were too busy to notice me. 

My fingers curled into fists.

“Etta, we can’t steal a diaper. C’mon, you are not a thief,” I muttered, tears rolling down my cheeks.

BACK TO THE PRESENT

"Marietta," Michael's voice was low, almost pleading as he reached for my hand.

"Don't you dare, Michael!" I snapped. 

The reporters were quickly back, and the guest's attention was soon on us.

"Ms. Etta, we heard you have a daughter. Do you have another man now?" Another reporter attacked.

My heart raced faster, as I tried to remain calm.