Chapter 4

Selina POV

"We will like to congratulate you on your latest project with our investors. We knew you were going to be a top asset with us." 

"It is nice working with you Mr. Joe " I responded with a handshake politely.

"There is one single problem though." He mentioned once we broke free from the handshake. "One of the investor is hosting a private party in California in his island and it is mandatory that you come for it." 

My smile disappeared the moment I heard Carlifornia. 

How do they want me to returned to the place that I most dreaded, a place that almost made me look like a whore, a state that threw several allegations against me and sabotage my marriage.

"Are there no other options? I mean excuses that will be considered by the executive of why I am not in attendance?" I pointed out.

"I am sorry, I know this must have ccaused you a serious inconvenience, but I need you to understand that this party is important, if we have you in attendance, it open us to bigger investment clients." 

Before I could say another word, Joe moved out of the office and as I stared into space consumed by thoughts of this trip.

Just when I was beginning to get my life back in order, everything had to be ruined with a trip back to California. Regardless, I was a different person now and I should not be scared of Carlifornia anymore, no one will be able to recognize me.

After several hours, I was back home and Ella rushed to embrace me in a warm hug. I raised her up and brought her back down. 

I still could not believe that my child was all grown after all this years. I had vowed to make her years memorable, even without a father.

"So, how did school go today?" I questioned her as we laid back on the couch, watching her favourite TV series.

"There is nothing exciting about school. The teachers are not even helping matters." One thing I could not take from Ella was how smart she had grown to be.

"How about a little adventure?" I askedal and I could see the excitement on her face. "Good, we are moving to California tomorrow my dear. Can you consider that fun?" 

Ella's eyes widened at the announcement and she screamed in excitement.

"I have always hoped that we traveled away from this place. It is getting bored here, but Carlifornia? I will be glad." 

"Seeing that you like it, I think we should start getting ready then because Carlifornia flights are going to be stressful." She dropped out of my legs excited and stretched forth her hand and I grabbed them and get up to my feet as well.

Every time I laid eyes on Ella, she reminded me of Adams . She had taken her father's unique gene and she looked gorgeous.

Speaking of Adams , I could only wonder what he looked like at the moment. Even though she had broken my heart, I still had a soft spot for him, but I was never going to let it out, because of how he had hurt me.

*

The next day

When we landed on the shores of Carlifornia, I took in the atmosphere of the place I had left for over years and nostalgic feelings overwhelmed me.

We stepped into the limousine once we got out of the jet and made our way round the city, to our hotel.

"I have noticed you looking sad mom, what is bothering you?" Ella broke the silence.

"I am actually fine darling, I just can't wrap my head around the numerous memories that this city holds for me." I said as we moved passed a popular coffee shop I knew.

I didn't know why I was nervous as we walked towards the Bentley that had been prepared by the investors. 

"You once told me you grew up in California?" She asked.

"Indeed sweetheart, I had it really tough back here in Carlifornia." I responded, grabbing her hand and squeezing them.

"But it is no more rough again for mummy." She said excitedly and I laughed at how cute she reacted.

When we arrived at the top hotel in the city, which the investors had prepared for myself and Ella, I was welcomed by some of them. 

This was the first time I was laying eyes on them and there was no denial that they were accommodating.

"Welcome to Carlifornia Mrs. Selina." The investor who was to hold the party stepped out to welcome. "On my word, I assure you that I will make Carlifornia worth enjoying." 

I looked around and Ella was staring at the black Bugatti parked next to our limousine.

"I am guessing this is your daughter." One of the investors asked.

"Yes, her name is Ella." Ella made her way to my side.

"When you freshen up, I certainly hope we can talk a lot this time." The investor suggested and I merely smiled and we were ushered to our room.

Ella was entitled to an entire room, which was an extension of my private room. The interior was built out of gold and it screamed so much luxury.

While I settled down into the bed, searching through my bag for my phone, I heard a loud commotion outside the room and rushed to check what was happening.

There was no sign of Ella anywhere. I rushed outside the room to search for Ella, when a group of security men rushed towards me.

"Please have you seen my daughter?" I asked.

"I am sorry ma'am, that is what we came to report to you. Apparently there is no sign of Ella anywhere."

I suddenly became scared. "What are you even talking about? I left my daughter in your care, while I went into the next room." I screamed.

"I am aware of this and that is why I am saying sorry. We were summoned by an investor and we left the door opened." I rushed past them through the hallway, searching for Ella.

She cannot have gone out for too long. 

I almost collided with one of the investors. "What is the problem Mrs Selina." He asked, adjusting his suit.

"I am sorry to bother you, but have you seen my daughter?" I asked with a desperate tone.

"My apologies if the security were showing signs of incompetency, your daughter is actually outside the premises." I did not care for what else he will say, as I rushed past him to the entrance, where Ella was speaking to a man.

"Ella!" I called and rushed towards her.I froze halfway towards her,when I realized the man besides her was Adam.