Andrea's pov.
Five years later.
I slip on my signature shades as I step out from my black Rolls Royce. It protects my sensitive eyes away from the light of the paparazzi's cameras.
It's been five years since I left Seattle. Everything is different but somehow, it still feels the same. I've missed it, the people, the air, the vibe. I missed Seattle. That's the second reason why I chose to leave Boston and build my new company here.
" Would you like to share your story with the people Ms Campbell? Please do tell us how you reunited with your family "
One of the reporters asked a question that snapped me out of my nostalgic thoughts.
My lips curved into a small practiced smile. I've shared the story with the press times without number, and I don't mind doing it every day. The image of my father comes to mind, how he hugged me tightly the day he found me. I was wretched, abandoned, and three weeks into motherhood. I was a nobody, but he gave me so much love there and then my heart nearly burst. My smile stretches into a full, delightful one.
" My family was on a cruise when I went missing as a child. I was later adopted by my late guardian - Pa Eugene, and only five years back did my father find his missing daughter. "
I keep the story very simple and concise, leaving out the painful details about my failed marriage.
" Do you think you can successfully run the Campbell Tech world just five years after reuniting with your family? I mean, for one to govern such a massive enterprise, you need to have in-depth knowledge and years of experience." Another reporter says skeptically.
I straightened up to him, my posture and voice oozing well-calculated poise.
" I am confident in my capabilities. However, I do not oversee the Campbell industries; I am only the acting CEO. My father, Mr Campbell, remains the CEO, and as for in-depth knowledge, I believe I have achieved that, and both my degrees in business and technology can attest to it. Mind you, my company, Auraspire Energies, might be a subsidiary of Campbell Technologies, but I oversee it myself, and I look forward to taking renewable energy in Seattle to the next level. That will be all for now. "
I spin around in my heels. My Chief Operating Officer, Rosa, walks closely behind me into the company. My company. The thought feels me with glee
The reporters bombard me with more questions but the security keeps them outside. As I step into the building, I smile with pride; it's barely four months since it was opened, and there's so much to be accomplished here.
Walking into my massive office feels like walking into a small paradise. I had it modeled to my taste. Flowery paintings adorned the walls, and the sweet smell of jasmines, and lavender fills in the air.
It's just perfect.
I sit on my leather chair and swivel it over to gaze at the Seattle skyline. It's time for the games to begin. Scrolling through my notepad on my phone, I read my plan
' How to get revenge on my ex-husband.
Step one. Secure collaboration. '
A wicked smile tugs at the corner of my lips. It's time
" Rosa. " My voice rings out.
" Yes ma'am. "
She's at my side in seconds. Looking extremely composed in her teal-green suit.
" Rosa, please drop the honorifics, it's odd. "
" Andera, once we're at work, I cease to be your best friend. You're my boss, and that's it, ma. "
I shake my head, Rosa can be a bit uptight.
" Whatever makes you happy. " I retort as she simply smiles back.
" Has Renihardt's infrastructures accepted our proposal yet? It's been two days since we sent it. "
" No, they haven't. I would advise you to give it time; for a company as well-reputed as theirs, they would want to make a proper background check before joining any collaboration. " She says matter of factly. I nod in response
" Alright, I'll keep waiting then. " I try not to let my frustration show. I need Thane to accept this partnership; It's my gateway to getting the revenge I've long dreamt about.
" But if I may ask, is there any reason you chose this particular company to partner with? You seem so bent about partnering with the Reinhardt." She studies me quizzically with her black eyes.
A sigh escapes my lips.
Rosa is kind and caring, and I've never had a close friend in my entire life. She helped me balance my new life as the heir of Campbell Technologies and a young mother. She's also aware of my marriage and divorce, so I open up to her
" The company belongs to my ex-husband. Thane Reinhardt"
Her lips form into a thin line and she leans closer to me.
"Andera, tell me what you plan on doing. " She prods.
Would she think my desire for revenge is unnecessary? Well, even if she does, she wouldn't be able to talk me out of it. My thirst for vengeance is unquenchable.
" I want to make him pay for what he did to me." I deadpanned. My pulse raced as memories of that day clouded my mind.
" I want to see him grovel and beg. I want him to suffer the same pain he made me go through five years ago. "
Rosa's deep black eyes held mine intensely, studying me for a few seconds; she cupped my palm in hers, understanding and love flicking in those onyx eyes.
" Count me in, Andera. "
Just as I was about to answer her, my phone buzzed with a new email.
." it's from Renihardt's infrastructure " I inform Rosa.
I check it out. My eyebrows furrow as I read the message that came directly from Thane
" Just in good timing. So what did they say? " She asks eagerly
" Let's get some champagne first. " My face lits up with mischief as I drop my phone back to my mahogany desk.
" Champagne? Here? " She asks incredulously
" Yes, bestie. " I smirk
" The party just started. "
Thane's pov " It would be unwise to reject this offer. " Paul advised. I lean back into my leather seat and read the message from my computer "Auraspire Energy, a subsidiary of Campbell's Technologies, proposes a comprehensive collaboration to integrate our renewable energy solutions with Renihardt's Infrastructure's expertise.Our partnership aims to establish Seattle as a global model for sustainable urban development, enhancing the city's eco-friendliness, and quality of life...'" The proposal is good. Normally, I would be reluctant to partner with a new company, but seeing as this one is an extension of the renowned Campbell's technologies, I'm assured they're liquid enough to collaborate. My earlier skepticism morphed into fascination. This collaboration could catapult Renihardt's Infrastructure to the forefront of sustainable development. " Our partnership will change the game. And Ms Campbell you've made a compelling case. I look forward to seeing you ." I type and send
Andera's pov I withdrew my outstretched arm, squaring up to Thane. He may be six foot four, but my boldness is taller, and the heels I'm on give me two extra inches. I don't shy away from his menacing gaze, mine is confident and impenetrable. " Shall we start our meeting, Mr Renihardt, or would you rather we remain standing? " I cocked one brow at him, ignoring his outburst. He drew his head back in surprise and blinked at me. Stunned, Thane? Just wait; you don't know what's coming for you, my dear ex-husband. I smirked. Without waiting for his approval, I took a seat. Rosa sat next to me and the rest of my team followed suit. Thane stood like a statue, with different emotions flicking in those gray eyes. Paul nudged his boss to sit down. The tension in the conference room was so thick, I could slice it with a blunt knife."Thank you for agreeing to partner with Auraspire Energies. " I gave him a sweet smile. " Now all that's left is to discuss the terms and sign both our
Thane's povI gulped down another shot of whiskey, feeling it burn down my throat. I've been seething since Andera left in her Rolls Royce, swaying those lush hips as she walked past me. I still can't believe Andera is the daughter of The one and only Campbell. Did my father know? Was that why he forced me to marry her after I....? Goddammit!Everything about her has changed. She's confident and sassy and ..... beautiful, with her auburn hair flowing in waves, framing her heart-shaped face and her captivating hazel eyes, polls of green and brown. " She chose me. " I muttered to myself" Sir? " Paul, who had been with me ever since they left, asked." Paul, I think she chose to partner with me to spite me, rub off her wealth and affluence in my face. " I groaned as I set the glass down on my desk." Well, sir, perhaps she chose to collaborate with Renihardt's infrastructure given how outstanding we are. I mean, when it comes to large-scale infrastructure and managing complex construc
Andera's pov.Relief washes over me as I step out of my car. I'm still reeling in the joy from my meeting but I'm also very eager to see my kids.That's right. Kids.Thane knocked me up with two babies! And while I hate him, and would probably hate him till I take my last breath, having our kids is the best thing that has happened in my life. What I felt when I bore them is too profound, to be put into words.It's quiet when I step in, too quiet. "Timmy? Tiffany? " I call out, my eyes scanning the living room. They're both usually here watching cartoons whenever I return. A faint giggle form behind catches my attention, and my eyes land on two little rascals hiding behind the couch. Tiffany tries to stifle her laughter while Timmy puts a finger to his lips, gesturing her to keep quiet.Smiling, I pretend not to see them and play along with their game. "Oh, where could these kids be?" I exclaim, hitting my forehead with my palm dramatically. Tiffany giggles more, and Timmy's face
Thane's pov As I pulled into the driveway, Melissa's enraged voice echoed from the entrance of my mansion. The fucking entrance! God, she's loud.For a moment, I briefly considered going back to me car, putting my car in reverse to get the fuck away from her. " Chill, man, you just postponed your wedding; any woman would be upset. You just have to calm her down " I remind myself as I walk in.Most of the staff's scurry in and out of my room, exchanging hushed whispers and nervous glances. When I walk in, I find Melissa frantically packing clothes, makeup, and other belongings. Some were scattered haphazardly on the floor, I even nearly stepped on her hair dryer. The bedside mirror had a large crack in the middle , with some pieces of shattered glass on the floor. I would have to avoid stepping on those too. I wonder what she must have thrown at it, hopefully not any of my stuff.She came to a standstill when she saw me walk in, her face beet-red with rage." You had no right to post
Andera's pov. " The curse was broken and the beast transformed into a handsome prince. The prince and beauty got married in a grand ceremony, people gathered from far and wide to join their celebration, and they lived happily ever after the end." I closed the bedtime storybook with a soft thud, watching a small smile spread on Tiffany's lips. Her eyelids dropped, and she snuggled closer to me, her small body relaxing into mine." This is my favorite bedtime story, mommy. " She mumbled. " It's a great story," I whisper back. Timmy, my little caretaker, took the book from me, climbed down from the bed, and carefully placed it on the book rack. My heart swelled with pride as I watched him climb back onto the bed, his little face beaming with a sense of accomplishment. Timmy, my little man."Mommy, when daddy comes back, you'll get to live happily too, just like Beauty, and then Timmy and I can make new drawings of the four of us in our own happily ever after. " Her voice slurs.I clo
Andrea's pov.The pen fell from my hands again. " Just sign the goddamn papers, would you? " Mother-in-law's voice dripped with venom." She can't even hold on to a pen, it's not surprising you couldn't hold your husband's heart, too. " Anna hissed." I...I can't. " I stammered.The hate and disgust on their faces was palpable, more tears welled in my eyes." For the love of God! is that the only thing you can do Andera, cry? Yuck, look at your face; it's covered in snort; you're so disgusting. We don't want you as a part of our family anymore; so just get this divorce over with!" Imogen thundered. I love Thane, and this family is all I have, where would I go from here? Thane walked back into the living room, and I got on my knees to beg him some more." Thane, please don't do this to us. I love you, Thane. I don't have a life outside the one you've given me. Thane please, I'll do anything you want " The tears flowed from my eyes in torrents while I pleaded on bended knees.
Andera's pov. " The curse was broken and the beast transformed into a handsome prince. The prince and beauty got married in a grand ceremony, people gathered from far and wide to join their celebration, and they lived happily ever after the end." I closed the bedtime storybook with a soft thud, watching a small smile spread on Tiffany's lips. Her eyelids dropped, and she snuggled closer to me, her small body relaxing into mine." This is my favorite bedtime story, mommy. " She mumbled. " It's a great story," I whisper back. Timmy, my little caretaker, took the book from me, climbed down from the bed, and carefully placed it on the book rack. My heart swelled with pride as I watched him climb back onto the bed, his little face beaming with a sense of accomplishment. Timmy, my little man."Mommy, when daddy comes back, you'll get to live happily too, just like Beauty, and then Timmy and I can make new drawings of the four of us in our own happily ever after. " Her voice slurs.I clo
Thane's pov As I pulled into the driveway, Melissa's enraged voice echoed from the entrance of my mansion. The fucking entrance! God, she's loud.For a moment, I briefly considered going back to me car, putting my car in reverse to get the fuck away from her. " Chill, man, you just postponed your wedding; any woman would be upset. You just have to calm her down " I remind myself as I walk in.Most of the staff's scurry in and out of my room, exchanging hushed whispers and nervous glances. When I walk in, I find Melissa frantically packing clothes, makeup, and other belongings. Some were scattered haphazardly on the floor, I even nearly stepped on her hair dryer. The bedside mirror had a large crack in the middle , with some pieces of shattered glass on the floor. I would have to avoid stepping on those too. I wonder what she must have thrown at it, hopefully not any of my stuff.She came to a standstill when she saw me walk in, her face beet-red with rage." You had no right to post
Andera's pov.Relief washes over me as I step out of my car. I'm still reeling in the joy from my meeting but I'm also very eager to see my kids.That's right. Kids.Thane knocked me up with two babies! And while I hate him, and would probably hate him till I take my last breath, having our kids is the best thing that has happened in my life. What I felt when I bore them is too profound, to be put into words.It's quiet when I step in, too quiet. "Timmy? Tiffany? " I call out, my eyes scanning the living room. They're both usually here watching cartoons whenever I return. A faint giggle form behind catches my attention, and my eyes land on two little rascals hiding behind the couch. Tiffany tries to stifle her laughter while Timmy puts a finger to his lips, gesturing her to keep quiet.Smiling, I pretend not to see them and play along with their game. "Oh, where could these kids be?" I exclaim, hitting my forehead with my palm dramatically. Tiffany giggles more, and Timmy's face
Thane's povI gulped down another shot of whiskey, feeling it burn down my throat. I've been seething since Andera left in her Rolls Royce, swaying those lush hips as she walked past me. I still can't believe Andera is the daughter of The one and only Campbell. Did my father know? Was that why he forced me to marry her after I....? Goddammit!Everything about her has changed. She's confident and sassy and ..... beautiful, with her auburn hair flowing in waves, framing her heart-shaped face and her captivating hazel eyes, polls of green and brown. " She chose me. " I muttered to myself" Sir? " Paul, who had been with me ever since they left, asked." Paul, I think she chose to partner with me to spite me, rub off her wealth and affluence in my face. " I groaned as I set the glass down on my desk." Well, sir, perhaps she chose to collaborate with Renihardt's infrastructure given how outstanding we are. I mean, when it comes to large-scale infrastructure and managing complex construc
Andera's pov I withdrew my outstretched arm, squaring up to Thane. He may be six foot four, but my boldness is taller, and the heels I'm on give me two extra inches. I don't shy away from his menacing gaze, mine is confident and impenetrable. " Shall we start our meeting, Mr Renihardt, or would you rather we remain standing? " I cocked one brow at him, ignoring his outburst. He drew his head back in surprise and blinked at me. Stunned, Thane? Just wait; you don't know what's coming for you, my dear ex-husband. I smirked. Without waiting for his approval, I took a seat. Rosa sat next to me and the rest of my team followed suit. Thane stood like a statue, with different emotions flicking in those gray eyes. Paul nudged his boss to sit down. The tension in the conference room was so thick, I could slice it with a blunt knife."Thank you for agreeing to partner with Auraspire Energies. " I gave him a sweet smile. " Now all that's left is to discuss the terms and sign both our
Thane's pov " It would be unwise to reject this offer. " Paul advised. I lean back into my leather seat and read the message from my computer "Auraspire Energy, a subsidiary of Campbell's Technologies, proposes a comprehensive collaboration to integrate our renewable energy solutions with Renihardt's Infrastructure's expertise.Our partnership aims to establish Seattle as a global model for sustainable urban development, enhancing the city's eco-friendliness, and quality of life...'" The proposal is good. Normally, I would be reluctant to partner with a new company, but seeing as this one is an extension of the renowned Campbell's technologies, I'm assured they're liquid enough to collaborate. My earlier skepticism morphed into fascination. This collaboration could catapult Renihardt's Infrastructure to the forefront of sustainable development. " Our partnership will change the game. And Ms Campbell you've made a compelling case. I look forward to seeing you ." I type and send
Andrea's pov.Five years later.I slip on my signature shades as I step out from my black Rolls Royce. It protects my sensitive eyes away from the light of the paparazzi's cameras. It's been five years since I left Seattle. Everything is different but somehow, it still feels the same. I've missed it, the people, the air, the vibe. I missed Seattle. That's the second reason why I chose to leave Boston and build my new company here. " Would you like to share your story with the people Ms Campbell? Please do tell us how you reunited with your family " One of the reporters asked a question that snapped me out of my nostalgic thoughts.My lips curved into a small practiced smile. I've shared the story with the press times without number, and I don't mind doing it every day. The image of my father comes to mind, how he hugged me tightly the day he found me. I was wretched, abandoned, and three weeks into motherhood. I was a nobody, but he gave me so much love there and then my heart nea
Andrea's pov.The pen fell from my hands again. " Just sign the goddamn papers, would you? " Mother-in-law's voice dripped with venom." She can't even hold on to a pen, it's not surprising you couldn't hold your husband's heart, too. " Anna hissed." I...I can't. " I stammered.The hate and disgust on their faces was palpable, more tears welled in my eyes." For the love of God! is that the only thing you can do Andera, cry? Yuck, look at your face; it's covered in snort; you're so disgusting. We don't want you as a part of our family anymore; so just get this divorce over with!" Imogen thundered. I love Thane, and this family is all I have, where would I go from here? Thane walked back into the living room, and I got on my knees to beg him some more." Thane, please don't do this to us. I love you, Thane. I don't have a life outside the one you've given me. Thane please, I'll do anything you want " The tears flowed from my eyes in torrents while I pleaded on bended knees.