Chapter Four

~~ Six years later ~~

 As the plane's door swung open, a woman descended the stairs with grace, her every step exuding elegance and sophistication. Her chestnut brown hair cascaded in soft waves, perfectly complementing her flamboyant attire that bespoke of wealth and classic taste. With sparkling eyes and a radiant smile, she held onto a cheerful little girl who mirrored her mother's grace and beauty, dressed in a matching outfit.

As they stepped onto the tarmac, the little girl's eyes widened in wonder, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling airport. People stopped in their tracks, their gazes drawn to the pair as they made their way down the railings.

"Why do everyone keep staring at me wherever we go, Mommy?" the girl asked, her voice filled with curiosity.

The woman chuckled affectionately, removing her sunglasses to reveal sparkling daunting brown eyes. "It's because you're so pretty, Sophie, my darling," she replied with a smile.

Sophie giggled in response, her infectious laughter filling the air. Just then, a group of people approached them, offering compliments and admiration for the little girl's beauty. Some even asked to take pictures with her.

Her mother graciously declined the offers, thanking them with a warm smile before gently guiding Sophie away from the crowd. Excitement bubbled between them as they embarked on their next adventure, leaving behind a trail of awe and admiration in their wake.

Sophie stepped out of the airport with an air of elegance, her mother's hand clasped tightly in hers as they approached a line of sleek, black cars waiting to whisk them away.

"Mom, are we going to see the president?" Sophie's eyes widened in excitement as she surveyed the impressive display of vehicles.

Her mother chuckled, her gaze lingering on Sophie's twinkling blue eyes. 

Sophie rolled her eyes playfully. "Stop staring at my eyes, Mom. It's kind of weird, you know," she teased, her lips forming a pout.

"I can't help it, darling. Your eyes are simply mesmerizing," she confessed with a smile.

"You keep saying that.”

The woman sighed dramatically. "I'm just slightly heartbroken that you didn't inherit my eye color," she replied with mock seriousness.

A well-dressed man approached them, bowing respectfully. "Welcome, Miss Everhardt. Welcome, Miss Sophie," he greeted, his demeanor respectful yet warm.

Sophie beamed in response, her excitement palpable as she glanced at the guards who were handling their luggage.

"If you were returning now, it would have been better if you had taken one of the Everhardt’s private planes," the man remarked, a hint of concern in his voice. "The party is in a few hours."

"But we arrived earlier than expected, thanks to the first-class service," the woman reassured him with a smile. "We'll be on time, don't worry. But first, I promised my princess a little shopping spree."

Sophie's eyes lit up at the mention of shopping, her curiosity piqued. "Mom, what party are we attending?" she inquired, her voice filled with excitement.

"It's a welcoming and surprise party that my grandfather has arranged for me," her mother explained, her tone tinged with anticipation. 

“Am I going to see kids of my age there?"

“No, dear. It's an adult party, but I'm taking you along." 

Sophie's enthusiasm waned slightly at the thought of an adult party. "I don't like adult parties," she declared, her brows furrowing in determination. "But I want to give Great Grandpa a surprise. Remember what I told you on the plane?"

The woman nodded, a smile playing on her lips. She leaned down to Sophie's level, pressing a tender kiss to her cheek. "Take good care of my daughter, Luke, and assist her with whatever surprise she has planned for Grandpa," she instructed the man with a gentle smile.

"See you later, Mother. And remember, don't spill the beans about the surprise," Sophie reminded her, her eyes shining with excitement.

The woman nodded, her grin widening. “I won't, my darling."

"Pinky promise?" Sophie asked, extending her little pinky finger.

The woman eagerly linked her own pinky with her daughter's. "Pinky promise," she confirmed.

Sophie sealed the vow with a kiss on her mother's cheek, “Take care. Love you," before darting off. 

Left alone, the woman entered one of the waiting cars, a sense of anticipation filling her as they drove off into the bustling cityscape.

Hours Later

  In the opulent confines of a lavish hotel room, a team of stylists swarmed around the woman, their skilled hands adorning her in luxurious jewels and exquisite garments. With each delicate touch, she transformed into a vision of elegance and allure.

Standing before a full-length mirror, the woman admired herself in a breathtaking gown, its shimmering fabric cascading around her in a mesmerizing display. The dress, a masterpiece of haute couture, hugged her curves and accentuated her every graceful movement.

"You may leave now. I'll take it from here," She commanded with a flick of her fingers, dismissing the bustling team of stylists.

Moments later, a knock echoed through the room, and a young woman burst in, her eyes widening in awe at the sight before her.

"Miss Karina, you..." she trailed off, at a loss for words as she beheld Karina's radiant beauty.

Karina arched an eyebrow, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes. "Georgia, there's no need for formalities. You can address me as Karina," she chided gently.

Georgia nodded eagerly, still stunned by Karina's presence. "My apologies, Miss Everhardt. You look absolutely stunning," she gushed, unable to tear her eyes away. I'm sure you're going to kill everyone with your beauty and make heads turn.”

Karina chuckled softly, a self-assured smile playing on her lips as she applied a bold red lipstick. "I aim to impress," she remarked with a smirk.

With a final spritz of her signature perfume, Karina turned to Georgia. "Shall we?"

Georgia nodded, her excitement palpable as she hurriedly opened the door. As they stepped out into the less bustling hallway of the hotel, all eyes turned to Karina, her radiant beauty captivating every onlooker.

"Isn't that K. Everhardt? The famous entrepreneur!"

"She's the brilliant actress taking Hollywood by storm!"

"I never thought I'd see her in person. She's even more stunning than I imagined!"

Karina soaked in the adoration, her confidence soaring with each passing moment. As she approached the waiting white limousine in front of the building, Georgia caught up to her, a hint of urgency in her voice.

"Miss K., I just received a call from..."

"A producer, I presume?" Karina interjected, her tone cool and collected.

Georgia nodded eagerly. "Yes, the renowned British producer. You've secured the lead role in his latest blockbuster, beating out several A-list actresses for the part."

Karina's expression remained composed, but a flicker of satisfaction danced in her eyes. "Just another day in the life of a superstar," she murmured as she stepped into the waiting vehicle, leaving Georgia momentarily stunned by her effortless confidence.

  In the luxuriant confines of a magnificently decorated hall, the air was alive with the buzz of excitement as guests mingled and danced, enveloped by the grandeur of the occasion. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the room, illuminating the intricate floral arrangements adorning every table and the exquisite tapestries lining the walls.

Aidan, resplendent in a bespoke suit, made his entrance alongside Amira, who had put in her best to stand out in appearance. As they navigated through the crowd, their conversation turned to the prestigious host of the evening.

"This party is truly exceptional," Amira remarked, her eyes dancing with admiration.

"Indeed. It's hosted by Sir Lawson Everhardt, a name synonymous with greatness," Aidan replied, his tone tinged with awe.

"The Everhardt family is renowned for their contributions to society. I heard this is a welcoming party for their remarkable granddaughter. I can't wait to meet her personally," Amira added, her voice filled with anticipation.

"Let's hope you get the chance," Aidan quipped, a playful glint in his eye.

As soft music filled the air, Sir Lawson took the stage, accompanied by his grandson, Aaron. The room fell silent as all eyes turned to the patriarch of the Everhardt family.

"Tonight, we gather to celebrate a truly extraordinary individual. She has brought honor and prestige to our family name, captivating audiences around the world with her talent and grace," Sir Lawson began, his voice ringing out with pride.

Aidan and Amira exchanged a glance of surprise as the identity of the guest of honor was revealed.

"She's a famous top actress and she's no other person than my precious granddaughter and the heiress of Everhardt Corporation and Groups. Without further ado, please join me in welcoming the jewel of the Everhardt family, Karina Everhardt!"

As Karina made her entrance, the room erupted into applause, but Aidan and Amira stood frozen in disbelief. Before them stood Karina, a vision of elegance and poise.

"Karina," Aidan murmured in astonishment, unable to tear his gaze away from the woman on stage who looked as gorgeous as a goddess. 

Amira's breath caught in her throat as she stared at Karina in disbelief. It was a moment neither of them could have ever imagined.

Was it really the old Karina, Aidan's Ex-Wife? It had to be a dream for them, especially Aidan.