CHAPTER 5

Vanya's pov:

I couldn't ever get used to seeing so many rich and influential people under one roof. 

The cool air smelled of money and expensive cologne. I myself looked like one of these rich people, dressed in an exquisite dark red gown studded with gems on the plunging neckline. I had my hair done in a princess braid, tendrils of it framing my face and eyes. I held a champagne flute in my hand, sipping it occasionally. It was the good kind, the expensive bubbles tickling my tongue.

The dance floor was alive with couples in their attractive designer clothes dancing to fancy piano music. I stood on the balcony, drinking my champagne and watching the event. I had no obligation to be here, but I couldn't say no to the client's invitation.

How many of these events have I attended in just three months? A lot of them. And with each one, JAY’S CUISINE was there to attend to all the catering and interior decorating needs. 

I think this one was a fundraiser for women cancer, I wasn't exactly sure. 

"Good evening," I heard a rich voice say behind me. I turned to see a man, dressed in a light brown suit. He looked like another of those rich kids. 

"Good evening to you too." I replied with a controlled smile.

"My name is Roman Stephens. And you must be Vanya Jacob." he extended his hand for a handshake. He had a cute look, with sandy blond hair and green eyes. I shook his hand, and his grip was firm.

One point.

"You know my name," I said bashfully. "Interesting."

He laughed. "Who doesn't know Vanya Jacob? All the dishes here today are a proof of your expertise."

I allowed myself to blush at the compliment. "Thank you, Roman."

"Care to dance?" He gestured to the dance floor. 

"No thank you," I shook my head. "I'm not much of a dancer."

"Oh," His smile faltered for a while. "In that case," A waiter walked by with a tray of champagne. He took one glass, tipping his head in greeting to the waiter. 

Two points. 

He raised the glass to mine. "A toast?"

I clinked my glass with his. "To a wonderful evening."

The dance ended, the crowd erupting into rounds of applause. 

"To a wonderful evening." Roman agreed.

This was a success by all definitions. Everything was going so fine so far. After a quick drink with roman, I excused myself to check in on my workers. I may be dressed for the event, but I'm still here as a caterer.

"Miss Jacob," My chefs at the buffet greeted with a small bow of their heads.

"How is it going?" I asked, giving them warm smiles. 

"So far, everything has been hitch free." 

I nodded. "That's very good. If anything comes up, please don't hesitate to call me."

"Yes ma'am."

I glanced down at my watch, it was almost eleven. By now the kids must be asleep, tucked in by Marco and Emilia. I sighed softly, a small smile on my face. Perhaps tomorrow I'll take them out for a picnic.

"Miss Vanya!" I heard Roman call. before I knew it he was in front of me. "Hey for a moment I thought you had left."

"Not yet." I replied. "Is anything the..."

I couldn't finish my sentence. I felt a shiver run down my spine as I heard a familiar voice. 

"Mr Roberts! It's such a pleasant surprise to see you here."

Dear Luna, no.

"Miss Vanya?" Roman called, but his voice sounded faraway.

I felt my heart start to beat faster. I thought maybe I was imagining it, but I heard that voice again. My curiosity got the best of me and I turned around. 

I felt like I had been hit in the face with a ton of bricks. Standing a few feet away was Josephine. To my horror, she was dressed in the very same style of gown I wore. Same style, same color, “is this a mere coincidence?” Her Hair flowed down her back, part of it over her shoulder. She had her arm hooked to someone.

Cian.

He looked even more handsome than I recalled. His suit hugged his body perfectly, his hair styled in a parting sweep. He looked like a vision of power, the alpha that he was. And by his side, Josephine looked like a perfect Luna. She looked like me. 

I felt all breath knocked out of my lungs. Cian and Josephine! Right here!

The first thought that crossed my mind was to turn and leave. They hadn't spotted me yet. I could slip out without any of them knowing.

And then on second thought, I asked myself why? Why would I do that? Why would I run from these people who had humiliated me in that past? Why should I give them the satisfaction?

So I turned back to roman. "I'm sorry, lost myself for a moment." I said with a kind smile. "You were saying?"

"I was..."

"Vanya?" I heard Josephine. I pursed my lips, anger coursing through me. I quickly hid my annoyance under a smile. "Excuse me, roman." I said and turned.

Josephine and Cian walked over to me. Josephine had a smile so bright, like she hadn't taken everything from me.

"It's you!" She said, unhooking her arm from Cian. She reached out to me, trying to hug me. I stepped back, folding my arms. She looked down at my body. "Wow, we even matched! Our bond is so strong it's like telepathy!"

"Bond? You're delusional." I laughed, my eyes darting to Cian. "Don't give me that crap."

Cian stared at me. "Hello, Vanya." He said. "What a surprise seeing you here." He walked up to Josephine, placing a hand on the small of her back.

A small gesture, but with great significance. 

I looked up at their faces, a scoff leaving my lips. "How disgusting." I muttered under my breath. 

"What?" Josephine laughed. "Come on. You can't still be mad right? It's been four years."

I wanted to smash my champagne flute into her eyes. She can't be serious right now, right?