Surprise

One month later 

“ If we follow this procedure, we’re certain to see a 2% increase by the end of the year.” 

Chris announced with a proud smile as the board of directors congratulated him. As the supervisor of Stark's Industries import and export, Chris felt proud of his work.

Liam's voice cut through the applause. “ Do you think this is a joke?” His tone wiped the smile off their faces. “ We're supposed to hit a 5% increase before the end of the year. Are any of you serious about your jobs?” his blue eyes narrowed, burning into each person seated at the table.

Liam clenched his jaw, his frustration evident. Ever since that night with Evelyn, he couldn't focus. He regretted his words to her afterward, telling her it had been a mistake. He lied, it had been the best night of his life.

Her soft, smooth skin haunted him, invading his thoughts when he least expected it. It had been a month since that night and he had been avoiding her, he felt himself softening up to her in ways that scared him.

“ Don't call for a meeting again until I see some real improvements,” Liam said, standing up, leaving the boardroom. He could hear the grunts of frustration from members behind him but he didn't spear them a glance. They knew better than to challenge him.

“ Get me a cup of coffee, ” he ordered his secretary, Ophelia who was struggling to keep up with his brisk pace. She had been working with the company for two years now, a smart girl in her twenties, one of the few people who he could count on.

“ Your father is in your office sir," Ophelia's voice broke through his thoughts.

Liam stopped abruptly, his jaw tightening as the word “ father ". The mere mention of that word sent a wave of frustration and anger through him.

“ Why is he here? And why is he in my office?” he turned to face her.

“ He didn't say sir, he just went straight in.”

Liam let out a frustrated breath. He knew his father's unannounced visits always came with trouble.

“ Get me everything you can find on Christopher Scott ” his voice darker now. “ I want full details, connections to my wife, both past and present. I need them by next week” 

He didn't trust Christopher, and whatever his link was to Evelyn he would find out.

Liam strode towards his office, his fists clenched tightly in frustration. As he pushed the doors open, he was faced with the sight of his father, absentmindedly rolling a globe in his hands. 

“ What are you doing here?" Liam questioned, his irritation evident.

Oliver looked up, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth.

" I'm your father and also the former CEO of….”

" You are not my father!” Liam cut him off, anger flashing in his eyes as he watched his father's jaw tighten.

“ I don't have time for this, why are you really here?”

“ You've forgotten?” Oliver questioned, rising up from the desk, walking towards Liam. “ Evelyn's first gala is tonight, she invited your mother and me.”

“ Damn it, ” Liam muttered to himself. He'd completely forgotten about the gala. Tonight she'd be announcing to the world that Stark industries is the number one supporter of Jones Enterprise. He couldn't fail to be absent being the CEO.

“ I'll be attending later, I’ve got work to finish ” he said without looking up. “ You can leave if you're done.” 

Oliver's expression darkened as he stepped closer “ Don’t screw this up, Liam," he warned. “ Reporters will be everywhere, so behave." He gave Liam a hard pat on the back before leaving the office. 

Liam scoffed as the door closed behind his father. He turned to the stack of paperwork on his desk, but his mind still lingered on Evelyn and that night. 

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

“ You're late,” Evelyn said the moment Liam walked into the gala. His gaze immediately landed on her, admiring her dress. She wore a sapphire gown that seemed to hug her curves that shimmered under the lights, paired with the diamond earrings he'd left for her this morning. “ Wear it to you gala.” his note had said, and there she was, looking stunning in the outfit he'd silently chose for her. He'd also changed his suit to match hers.

" Eyes up here, mister," Evelyn clapped her hands, drawing his attention from where it lingered on her chest.

“ Shall we? ” Liam asked as he extended his hands out to her. For a brief second, he wasn't sure she'd take it, but then her fingers slipped into his. Her touch was warm and soft, sending a jolt of reassurance through him.

As they walked through the grand doors of the hall, murmurs erupted from the crowd. Liam could feel the weight of their gazes, admiration, curiosity, perhaps even envy. But none of that mattered, in that moment he could only focus on Evelyn.

His eyes roamed the room, soaking in the radiant decorations. The hall was adorned with regal purple flowers that created an electrifying presence. Dangling lights that made it look like the stars were right above our heads, each twinkling with a different color as if to dance to the rhythm of the universe. 

A bright stage that highlighted the attraction. As he looked around, he could feel the weight of everyone's eyes observing the room, admiring the radiant decorations.

“ You really went all out," Liam commented, glancing around. “ You look gorgeous, by the way." 

She turned to him, a smile plastered on her face, “ You don't look bad yourself. " 

Liam held Evelyn's hand as they both approached his business partners. It was a gathering of many influential figures, those who missed their wedding were present there. Liam had extended visitations to make sure they were all present. 

“ Evelyn, dear, it's so good to see you,” Harper squealed, giving Evelyn a warm hug. She wore a ruby gown which made her much younger. “ I can see Liam takes care of you well.”

Liam heard Evelyn scoff silently at the comment, her eyes narrowing slightly. He squeezed her waist, earning him a glare from Evelyn. 

“ What a pleasure to meet you " a voice chirped in, drawing their attention. Charlotte and Robert, Evelyn's parents strolled over, greeting everyone with smiles.

Liam could feel Evelyn stiffen at the sight of her parents.

“ Mom, Dad " she greeted, forcing a smile.

“ Evelyn, you didn't bother to come see your parents after the accident" Charlotte said, glancing between them with a mix of disappointment and accusation. 

“ Your honeymoon is all set! We've made all the preparations at a private island in the Maldives.” Charlotte and Harper squeaked. 

The thought of being on a private island with Evelyn sent chills down Liam's spine. He couldn't be alone with her talk more of a being on a private island.

“ The private jet will be ready by next week, so get…” Charlotte started, but was suddenly interrupted by the loud cracke of a microphone. 

“ Good evening, everyone! I have an announcement to make!" 

Liam froze. That voice, Scarlett. What the hell is she doing here?

All eyes turned to the stage. Liam's jaw dropped as he saw Scarlett swaying, looking drunk. Oliver's expression darkened as he looked between Liam and Scarlet sensing that something was off. 

“ What did you do Liam?" Oliver demanded. The sudden shift of attention to him, made his pulse race. 

He turned to Evelyn, guilt washing over him as he whispered “ I'm sorry." 

Evelyn's brow furrowed in confusion. “What's happening?” 

Liam knew Scarlett was about to ruin everything.

Scarlett grinned at the crowd “ You're wondering who I am," she slurred. " I'm Liam's fiancee.” she held up her hand, revealing a diamond ring engraved with an“ S," making the audience gasp in shock.