Chapter 4

THE RETURN

Lana’s POV

Fifteen Years Later…

I stepped out of the sleek black car and onto the scorching asphalt with the sun beating down on me nonstop. My driver, Jenkins, swiftly appeared by my side, holding a black umbrella above my head, shielding me from the harsh rays. I was dressed in a sophisticated black ensemble that screamed luxury and poise.

My fitted black dress hugged my curves making the silk fabric rustle softly as I moved. A pair of high heels clicked on the pavement as I walked, making their sharp sound echo through the sober atmosphere. A delicate silver necklace also adorned my neck, showing off my taste.

While I walked towards the gravesite, I noticed the diverse crowd gathered before me. People from all walks of life had come to pay their respects with their long faces whether genuinely sad or not. I spotted business associates, friends, and family members, all united in their grief.

My eyes fixed on the grave, and I felt a lump form in my throat. I gently dropped the bouquet of white roses onto the freshly dug earth. My fingers grazed the headstone, tracing the engraved letters as I fought back tears.

I stood there, frozen in my sorrow when I felt a gentle hand on my shoulder. I turned to face a group of somber-faced men. They were dressed professionally which gave away the insight that they were the deceased business partners. It was then that I revealed a hint of vulnerability, my voice barely above a whisper.

“Thank you for coming,”

They nodded as their condolences poured in, each one a reminder of the impact he had on their lives. I listened with my heart heavy with grief, as they shared stories and memories of his remarkable life.

It wasn't until one of them mentioned his name, “Your husband, Lucious,” that the truth became clear and clearer. I had just reunited with him only to lose him to the cold hands of death.

My late husband, Lucious, the same man from the bar— was a man of refinement. He had a gentle smile that could light up a room, and I was so lucky to have been the recipient of it.

Lucious was a self-made billionaire, with a vast empire of investments and real estate. I saw firsthand his sharp mind and strategic thinking, and I marveled at his kindness, humility, and generosity. He was significantly older than my ex-husband, Donovan, who was just 35. Lucious was a mature and experienced man, with a deep understanding of the world and its ways. He never for once hurt me or doubted my love for him and I was grateful for that.

He had a paternal affection for me, and I cherished the way he cherished me. I had never felt so loved and protected like the way I did when he was alive. And when he passed away, he left me his wealth and properties, ensuring my financial security and freedom.

With a quiet nod, I excused myself from the group and made my way back to the car. Jenkins opened the door, and I slid into the cool, dark interior, grateful for the respite from the sun and the prying eyes. While the car revved on from the gravesite, I felt a sudden feeling of loss that I couldn't quite put into words.

“Ma’am Lana, I have some news regarding the orphanage home from last time,” Jenkins spoke up, pulling me out of my weary moment.

I dabbed my eyes instantly, drying them of tears. “Update me, please,” I responded softly

“Umm…” he hesitated

I exhaled shakily, struggling to put myself together as I had noticed Jenkins’ body language.

“Is it bad news?” I queried, shifting my eyes from the rearview mirror.

“I’m sorry,” he said softly

“Jenkins, you have two minutes to speak,” I said authoritatively

He jolted a bit. “I apologize for that,”

“The orphanage matron who was in charge of your son is out of reach but I was told that before she left, he was given up for adoption,” he replied

A short air escaped my lungs as I processed what he just said. “What?” I whispered.

I had taken my son to the orphanage home after it became too difficult to cater for us. If only I had managed the situation at that time and waited a little bit… I would still be united with my son and he would have lived a better life as Lucious' son even though I had no idea of his status at the moment.

“I don’t care what you need to do, Find my son!” I ordered, closing the car door behind me as I walked purposely into the mansion.

************************

Four weeks have passed and it was just a few hours before my property showcase event began. I had hosted an exclusive event to showcase my company's latest developments and properties and I had made sure every other real estate company was invited to explore potential partnerships and collaborations.

Walking into the event hall, I was greeted by the presence of different caliber of people— of that which nosy paparazzi were part of.

People who saw and knew me didn’t hesitate to either greet me from where they were or even get close to where I was seated. I was happy and fulfilled. I couldn’t believe that Lana Gray of a not-so-well-known real estate company— Coastal Cove Realty, had transitioned to being the CEO of the number one ranked successful Real Estate Company in the whole of New Zealand— Riverview Realty Group.

I was her. And I couldn’t be more proud.

I sipped my glass of wine while enjoying the speaker's words when suddenly I heard my name being called.

“Please welcome to the stage, the host of today, the CEO of Riverview Realty Group, Lana Gray Lucious,”

I beamed with pride and confidence as I made my way to the stage. My heels clicked on the floor, and I walked majestically with my head held high.

As I approached the stairs, I noticed a familiar face in the crowd. Donovan. I hadn't seen him in years, and the sight of him brought back lots of emotions. What was he doing here? Oh, real estate. He must have attended as a representative.

But then something else caught my attention. It was a woman standing next to him, the same woman he had left me for. And beside them was a little boy, who looked around fifteen years old. There was something about him that drew me in— familiarity.

I reached the stairs and felt an overwhelming urge to connect with the boy. I tried to squat down to his level, to talk to him, but before I could say a word, Donovan spoke up.

“Lana…” His voice was laced with shock, and I could sense his discomfort.

I was about to respond, when the man on stage cleared his throat, drawing my attention back to the present.

“Lana Gray Lucious, it's an honor to have you here tonight,” I stood up, smoothing out my dress, and made my way to the microphone.

But then I heard a little voice say, “Mommy”