CHAPTER 4

As Lena's car pulled away, I turned to face my father sitting beside me on the veranda. His stern features had softened as he watched me, seeing the turmoil still evident in my eyes.

"My dear, I know this ordeal has cut deeply. But you must not lose hope - you have so much wonderful life still ahead of you." He patted my hand gently.

I sighed. "It's just so hard to imagine moving on when the wound is still so fresh. " 

My father nodded understandingly. "Which is why I think a change of scenery could do you good. There is a gala this weekend benefiting one of NexGen's philanthropic partners. As my daughter, your presence would be appreciated."

I pondered his words as a reminder of my true identity swirled in my mind. NexGen Technologies was no ordinary company. Under my father's leadership, it had grown into a global powerhouse known for developing groundbreaking innovations that shaped the world. The patents my father had created were worth billions, yet he remained a quiet recluse, content to let his inventions work their influence from the shadows. 

Few outside our inner circles even knew of my true lineage as Aldo De Rossi's only daughter. For the past few years, hiding in plain sight as Nathan Richard's wife had allowed me to escape that gilded yet stifling world.

I hesitated. "You know Nathan and his friends from the business world will likely be there. I'm not sure I'm ready for that." The thought of running into him so soon sent a wave of anxiety through me. 

"All the more reason for you to attend, with your head held high," my father countered firmly but kindly. "Do not give those vultures like Richard the satisfaction of seeing you cower. You have every right to be there as much as any of them."

He had a point. Hiding away would only prolong the pain and embarrassment. But facing Nathan directly still seemed an insurmountable challenge. "I want to be strong, truly I do. But I'm afraid if I see him, all the hurt and betrayal will come flooding back."

My father took my hands in his. "Then lean on me, my dear. I will be by your side the whole evening ensuring you want for nothing and need not engage with anyone you do not wish to. And remember - you have nothing to be ashamed of. That snake Richard is the one in the wrong, not you." 

His steadfast reassurance began loosening the knots of anxiety in my chest. "Alright. If you'll be with me the whole time, I'll come. "

My father smiled proudly. "That's my brave girl. I want you to dazzle them all in the finest couture. Leave no doubt that you remain every inch an heiress to be reckoned with."

That night, sleep eluded me as thoughts swirled endlessly in my mind. I tossed and turned, replaying the scene of Nathan serving me divorce papers on a relentless loop. 

But more tormenting than that were the images of him moving on so easily with his mistress, Camille. Were they cozying up together in our home already? Laughing at how easily I'd been cast aside? Camille was already pregnant - did they celebrate securing their future together in my absence? Did she sit in my favorite chair, and use my favorite mug? The thought of another woman taking my place stirred a venomous rage within me.

I sighed in frustration. It was no use dwelling in the darkness of night. Throwing back the covers, I padded over to the window seat and gazed out at the starry sky, hoping its beauty might soothe my troubled spirit. 

My father had built this house as a refuge from the pressures of his success. Yet for so long, I'd denied my place within its walls to play the role of trophy wife. Now that my eyes had been opened, I was beginning to understand why he valued solitude and simplicity above all else. 

A light knock roused me from my musings. Bianca entered carrying a tray laden with tea and pastries. "The hour grows late, child. You must regain your strength for tomorrow's gala."

Her fussing brought a faint smile. This house held more love than any other, even in my darkest moments. "Thank you, Bianca. You are too kind to indulge an old maid's restlessness."

"Nonsense. You have a light yet, no matter the troubles that weigh on your shoulders." She pressed a steaming cup into my hands. "Now, shall I lay out the dress I've prepared? A splash of red to remind all who see of your vivacity and courage of spirit."

My heart swelled at her attempt to lift my mood. "Yes, I think seeing it may help ease my mind for sleep. With you and my father beside me, I know I have nothing to fear from that man or his harpy."

The dress was a vision, its crimson folds gleaming as if lit from within. Bianca was right - wearing it, I would feel armor-clad and ready for battle. With their support bolstering me, I knew I had the strength to face Nathan and whatever machinations he attempted. The gala would be my reclaiming, on my terms.  

"Thank you, Bianca, for everything you do. I don't know how I would manage without your support," I said, giving her a heartfelt hug. 

She patted my back affectionately. "It's my pleasure, dear. Now get some rest - you have a big night ahead!"

I climbed into bed, but sleep remained elusive as nerves swirled in my stomach. After what felt like hours, exhaustion overtook me.

The next morning passed in a flurry of activity. Bianca worked her magic, dressing me in the stunning red gown and perfecting my hair and makeup. When my father saw me, his eyes widened in amazement. 

"Agatha, you look breathtaking. The very image of your mother " His rare praise warmed me deeply. 

We arrived at the gala, arm in arm. My father greeted several of his associates, but I scanned the room anxiously, hoping to spot Nathan first and get their inevitable confrontation over with. 

"Excuse me, darling, I must speak with the Delgados. Why don't you mingle and I'll find you shortly?" Without waiting for my reply, Father swept off into the crowd.

Panic welled up in my chest at being abandoned alone. What if Nathan approached while Father was distracted? I'd be defenseless. My eyes darted frantically through the sea of faces, searching.

A server offered me a flute of champagne which I accepted with a shaky hand. Sipping it slowly, I tried to steady my frazzled nerves. Just breathe, Agatha. You've faced far worse than an ex-husband. 

I spotted a familiar figure across the room, deep in conversation. His back was to me but I'd know that perfectly coiffed blonde hair anywhere. My breath caught in my throat as he threw his head back in laughter. The memory of that carefree smile, once directed at me, sent a pang through my heart. 

Steeling my resolve, I began weaving through the crowd in his direction. Before I got far, a man hurried past in a flustered state, jostling my arm in the process. I gasped as my champagne flute went flying, its contents spilling all down the front of my exquisite gown in a foamy red cascade. 

"I'm so sorry, miss!" The man looked mortified, hands outstretched helplessly. "Please, allow me to assist you."

I glanced down in dismay at the ruined silk. All of Bianca's hard work was destroyed in an instant. Rage and humiliation bubbled up within me. "Do you have any idea how much this dress cost? I ought to have you arrested!" 

The man paled. "You're right to be furious. It was my clumsiness alone that caused this. At the very least, permit me to cover the cleaning. Or perhaps there's some other favor I could do to make amends?" 

Taking a calming breath, I studied him properly for the first time. Well-dressed, though not extravagantly so, with striking dark eyes and tousled brown hair. He seemed earnest in his regret. 

"Very well. You can start by fetching me a replacement dress from the boutique down the block. I'll need something suitable for this gala, and quickly." 

A look of relief washed over him. "Consider it done, miss. I'll have a car brought around straight away." He hurried off to make arrangements.

I sighed, dabbing ineffectually at the stained silk with my napkin. At least the incident had distracted me from my intended confrontation with Nathan, if only momentarily. And this stranger did seem determined to remedy the situation, against my better judgment. We would see if his words held. For now, I had little choice but to wait.

It wasn't long before a luxurious car pulled up. The man emerged, gesturing me inside. "Please, after you. We must get you into a dry dress before you catch a chill." His manners, while unexpected, were impeccable. Intrigued in spite of myself, I slipped into the car beside him.