While Abigail watched Edward speak on stage from a distance, a man approached her, carrying two champagne glasses. His presence was confident, almost magnetic.
"Hi," he said with a charming smile, stepping closer."H-hi?" Abigail responded, her voice tinged with hesitation."Pablo Ortez," he introduced himself, extending his hand. "You looked stunning. I couldn't resist coming over to meet you," he continued. Abigail managed a polite smile. It was rare for someone to approach her with such interest.Normally, people avoided her because of her unique hair color. But tonight, her appearance seemed to have a different effect.
"Abigail," she replied, shaking his hand."For you," Pablo said, handing her one of the champagne glasses. Abigail glanced at it, knowing she shouldn't drink because of her pregnancy. However, refusing might seem impolite."Thank you," she said, accepting the champagne."You know the Ulrick President?" Pablo asked, h"Edward!" called out a young woman wearing a deep burgundy dress, featuring a fitted, mermaid-style. Abigail, upon hearing the familiar voice, turned her head towards it. She couldn't help but be amazed by the woman's stunning beauty."Celes," Edward greeted the young woman warmly, recognizing her immediately. Abigail knew who had arrived. Celes was the famous actress rumored to be Edward's girlfriend."I'm glad you made it," Edward said after giving Celes a light kiss on the cheek."Of course, you invited me. And it's work. I'll be delighted to wear your new jewelry collection," she replied with a charming smile. Edward returned her smile."Roen, please escort her to her dressing room. And inform the team to start the show," Edward instructed.Aside from celebrating their company's anniversary, Edward took this opportunity to showcase the new Ulrick Jewels collection, followed by announcing the design competition for the next collection.As Celes
"You did a great job earlier," Roen said to Abigail with a smile as he escorted her to a luxurious suite in the grand hotel. The night had grown late, and Edward had decided they should spend the night there. With Edward still engrossed in conversations with the guests and company directors, Roen had taken on the responsibility of escorting Abigail to the suite."I didn't do anything but stand on stage. I don't understand why the President made me wear this necklace," Abigail said, her voice tinged with confusion and unease. She glanced at the ornate box she was holding. After the event, she had immediately returned the necklace to the box, afraid that she might damage it. She knew how important the necklace was, not only to Edward's family but also to the company. The weight of its significance felt almost too heavy to bear."He has his reasons," Roen replied, his smile unwavering, but his eyes holding a hint of mystery."Hope that reason is a good one," Abigail muttered, handing the
"Ah, you're here," one of Abigail's coworkers said as she arrived at their office. As soon as she entered, everyone turned to look at her. From the way they were looking at her, she could already guess the reason behind their stares. It was probably because of the recent anniversary party. She figured everyone would be asking her about what happened. After all, she was the only one in the company without an invitation, yet she suddenly showed up with the president, wearing the company's expensive necklace. Even she was puzzled by what had transpired."Imagine that, a simple secretary suddenly becoming the lady of the night because of the Crimson Fate necklace. Tell us, what did you do to fool the President?" a woman asked as she approached Abigail, her tone dripping with sarcasm."You're a disgrace. I never thought you could do that. Did you know you stole the spotlight from Celes? Tiffany said Celes was supposed to wear the Crimson Fate because she's the actress and model
"Find out what happened.” Roen’s voice cracked with fear as he stared at his wife’s pale face, desperation seeping into his every word. “I need to know why this happened to Abigail,” Edward commanded his tone a dangerous mix of fury and anxiety. His eyes were ablaze with a burning intensity, and his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white. Roen could almost feel the storm of emotions raging inside Edward, and he knew that any answer less than the truth would not suffice. Abigail’s life, and that of their unborn child, had been teetering on the brink of disaster. Even if their marriage was a mere formality, Edward was determined to protect Abigail and their baby at all costs.Roen rushed back to the building, his heart pounding with a mix of dread and determination. He found the young women they had seen earlier, their faces still etched with shock. His eyes narrowed as he scrutinized their every movement, searching for any hint of deception. He questioned James and Tiffany
Amazed, Abigail gazed at the cruise ship standing before her. She could hardly believe that, after three months of saving her salary, her dream of marrying the man she loved most was about to come true. The events seemed to unfold too quickly, but she was ecstatic that her dream was becoming a reality. Ever since graduating from college, her only aspirations were to secure a stable job, which she achieved as an office clerk at Ulrick Group, and to find a partner to marry eventually.Upon joining the Ulrick Company, Abigail felt a wave of fear, questioning her ability to socialize due to her introverted nature. As a country girl stepping into the corporate world, she faced a daunting challenge. Despite her shyness and reserved demeanor, she discovered joy in her duties, cheerfully buying coffee for colleagues, photocopying documents, working late, and assisting with her coworkers' tasks.Working at the company became easier for Abigail, especially after meeting James Ulrick, the son of
"You haven't changed a bit. From high school until now, you still dress the same. How do you expect to get a boyfriend like that?" Tiffany remarked, looking her up and down. Abigail glanced at her friend. As far as she could recall, Tiffany didn't use to dress this way in high school or college. She used to say that it didn't matter what they wore as long as they were comfortable, that it was all about how one carries oneself. But now, it seemed Tiffany had changed 360 degrees; even her clothes and the bag she carried were branded. Abigail knew that Tiffany's family was affluent. It seemed she was the only one who remained unchanged over time."Come, I'll introduce you to someone," Tiffany said cheerfully, taking the young woman's hand and leading her to the table where James was seated."I met him earlier while touring the cruise," Tiffany explained, stopping in front of James."James, I want you to meet my friend, Abby," Tiffany introduced. "Abby, meet James," she said, turning to l
"Why isn't he here yet?" Abigail wondered aloud while waiting inside the function hall for James. All the other couples to be wed that day were already grouped, leaving her the only one alone. Several staff members approached her repeatedly, saying the wedding was about to start and that her groom needed to arrive soon or they would not be able to participate in the ceremony. The young woman assured the staff that the young man was on his way. However, minutes passed as she stood by the door of the function hall, and still, there was no sign of James.The woman's shoulders slumped as she watched the wedding ceremony unfold. All the couples present were joyful except for her. Not only was she unable to attend the wedding, but her groom also did not arrive. She watched them exchange vows with happiness while discreetly wiping away her tears. She didn't know what happened to James or why he failed to show up for their wedding. Was she the only one excited about their union?Abigail dropp
Tiffany and James were shocked by Abigail's sudden action. She delivered a strong slap to the man's face, tears streaming down her cheeks."Leave my cabin," she demanded firmly."What did you say?" James inquired."Get out of my cabin. I paid for this place," the girl yelled. But her shout didn't intimidate James. Instead of James and Tiffany leaving her room, James dragged her out of the cabin and pushed her to the floor. James wasn't satisfied with just ejecting Abigail; he even threw her suitcase out after her."Are you tallying up your expenses on me? How cheap," James remarked before slamming the cabin door shut. Abigail heard the laughter of Tiffany and James inside her cabin as she tearfully gathered her belongings.Where could she possibly go? The cruise was already at sea. What, would she jump into the ocean and swim back to the pier? These thoughts crossed the young woman's mind as she stood in front of the railing, on the deck of the cruise ship, watching the fireworks whil
"Find out what happened.” Roen’s voice cracked with fear as he stared at his wife’s pale face, desperation seeping into his every word. “I need to know why this happened to Abigail,” Edward commanded his tone a dangerous mix of fury and anxiety. His eyes were ablaze with a burning intensity, and his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white. Roen could almost feel the storm of emotions raging inside Edward, and he knew that any answer less than the truth would not suffice. Abigail’s life, and that of their unborn child, had been teetering on the brink of disaster. Even if their marriage was a mere formality, Edward was determined to protect Abigail and their baby at all costs.Roen rushed back to the building, his heart pounding with a mix of dread and determination. He found the young women they had seen earlier, their faces still etched with shock. His eyes narrowed as he scrutinized their every movement, searching for any hint of deception. He questioned James and Tiffany
"Ah, you're here," one of Abigail's coworkers said as she arrived at their office. As soon as she entered, everyone turned to look at her. From the way they were looking at her, she could already guess the reason behind their stares. It was probably because of the recent anniversary party. She figured everyone would be asking her about what happened. After all, she was the only one in the company without an invitation, yet she suddenly showed up with the president, wearing the company's expensive necklace. Even she was puzzled by what had transpired."Imagine that, a simple secretary suddenly becoming the lady of the night because of the Crimson Fate necklace. Tell us, what did you do to fool the President?" a woman asked as she approached Abigail, her tone dripping with sarcasm."You're a disgrace. I never thought you could do that. Did you know you stole the spotlight from Celes? Tiffany said Celes was supposed to wear the Crimson Fate because she's the actress and model
"You did a great job earlier," Roen said to Abigail with a smile as he escorted her to a luxurious suite in the grand hotel. The night had grown late, and Edward had decided they should spend the night there. With Edward still engrossed in conversations with the guests and company directors, Roen had taken on the responsibility of escorting Abigail to the suite."I didn't do anything but stand on stage. I don't understand why the President made me wear this necklace," Abigail said, her voice tinged with confusion and unease. She glanced at the ornate box she was holding. After the event, she had immediately returned the necklace to the box, afraid that she might damage it. She knew how important the necklace was, not only to Edward's family but also to the company. The weight of its significance felt almost too heavy to bear."He has his reasons," Roen replied, his smile unwavering, but his eyes holding a hint of mystery."Hope that reason is a good one," Abigail muttered, handing the
"Edward!" called out a young woman wearing a deep burgundy dress, featuring a fitted, mermaid-style. Abigail, upon hearing the familiar voice, turned her head towards it. She couldn't help but be amazed by the woman's stunning beauty."Celes," Edward greeted the young woman warmly, recognizing her immediately. Abigail knew who had arrived. Celes was the famous actress rumored to be Edward's girlfriend."I'm glad you made it," Edward said after giving Celes a light kiss on the cheek."Of course, you invited me. And it's work. I'll be delighted to wear your new jewelry collection," she replied with a charming smile. Edward returned her smile."Roen, please escort her to her dressing room. And inform the team to start the show," Edward instructed.Aside from celebrating their company's anniversary, Edward took this opportunity to showcase the new Ulrick Jewels collection, followed by announcing the design competition for the next collection.As Celes
While Abigail watched Edward speak on stage from a distance, a man approached her, carrying two champagne glasses. His presence was confident, almost magnetic."Hi," he said with a charming smile, stepping closer."H-hi?" Abigail responded, her voice tinged with hesitation."Pablo Ortez," he introduced himself, extending his hand. "You looked stunning. I couldn't resist coming over to meet you," he continued. Abigail managed a polite smile. It was rare for someone to approach her with such interest.Normally, people avoided her because of her unique hair color. But tonight, her appearance seemed to have a different effect."Abigail," she replied, shaking his hand."For you," Pablo said, handing her one of the champagne glasses. Abigail glanced at it, knowing she shouldn't drink because of her pregnancy. However, refusing might seem impolite."Thank you," she said, accepting the champagne."You know the Ulrick President?" Pablo asked, h
All eyes turned to Edward and Abigail as the main door of the hall, where the Ulrick Corporation's anniversary party was being held, swung open. The room fell silent, captivated by the sight that met them, especially Tiffany and James, who were left in disbelief. Akira and Laylah, observing from a distance, couldn't help but smile as they saw the couple. Their entrance was nothing short of breathtaking, with Abigail effortlessly stealing the spotlight. Her beauty outshone everyone else in the grand ballroom. As the door opened, a wave of nervousness washed over Abigail, causing her to take a step back. For a brief moment, she contemplated fleeing, but her feet wouldn't obey. Clutching Edward's arm tightly, she felt the reassuring pressure of his hand on hers. He gently patted her hand, silently conveying that everything would be alright.Walking towards the front, Abigail felt a sense of vertigo. If it weren't for Edward by her side, she feared she might collapse. The eyes of t
Abigail’s heart pounded in her chest as Laylah guided her through the doors of the Fashion Boutique. The elegant decor and dazzling array of high-end fashion displayed before her left her breathless. Laylah, with a mysterious smile on her face, greeted one of the store clerks with an air of confidence.“Is everything ready?” Laylah asked the sales clerk, who responded with a warm smile and a nod.“This way, ma’am,” the sales clerk replied.“Let’s go,” Laylah said, leading Abigail into the boutique. Abigail’s curiosity peaked when the sales lady guided them to an exclusive dressing room.“I’ll leave her to you. Make her look stunning. I’m certain her ‘special someone’ will be here to pick her up soon,” Laylah said with a wink. Abigail looked at her friend in bewilderment.“Don’t worry. I’ll be right next door. I need to get ready too,” Layla
Lucas, it seems this isn't the way back to Edward's condo," Abigail remarked, noticing the unfamiliar route they were taking. She thought they were heading back to the condo unit, but the scenery around them was completely new."Yes, Ma'am. Sir Edward isn't at his condo right now. He instructed me to take you to Ulrick Oasis," the driver replied, glancing at her through the rearview mirror."Ulrick Oasis?" Abigail repeated, recalling that it was one of the largest hotels owned by Ulrick Corporation. As she pondered the significance of this change in plans, the invitation letter for the anniversary celebration of Ulrick Corporation flashed in her mind. Just then, her cell phone rang, breaking her train of thought. She glanced at the caller ID and saw that it was Roen."Hello?" Abigail answered."Thank goodness," Roen's relieved voice came through the line. Abigail raised an eyebrow in confusion."Why? What happened?" she asked."Where are you right now?" Roen inquired."Heading to Ulri
As Abigail entered the office, she couldn't help but notice her colleagues' frantic activity. They were all busy selecting outfits, an unusual sight that puzzled her. What event were they preparing for? Were they all going somewhere together? The questions swirled in her mind as she observed them."Looks like you're the only one in this building who hasn't heard," said a familiar voice, snapping Abigail out of her thoughts. She turned abruptly to see Tiffany and James approaching. Tiffany's hand was linked to James' arm, and they looked more like a couple on a date than coworkers in an office. Abigail knew Tiffany was around because of the magazine collaboration with the Ulrick Jewels jewelry design competition, but she couldn't fathom why they always seemed inseparable.Annoyance surged through Abigail. Why did she have to see these two every day? Why was she constantly reminded of what James had done to her?"Let me guess, no one told you?" Tiffany taunted. "Oh, I get it. You probab