when the needle pricks

As Vivian glanced down at her phone and saw a text from her mother, a wave of mixed emotions washed over her. A sinking feeling settled in her stomach, accompanied by a familiar sense of sadness and frustration. She knew from experience that her mother had a knack for using emotional blackmail to manipulate her.

Reading the words on the screen, her heart sunk even further. The message accused Vivian of not showing up to support her sister, implying that she was selfish or uncaring. It struck a nerve deep within her, reopening old wounds and stirring up memories of a painful incident.

Vivian's mind raced back to that particular event, a moment in which she genuinely believed her mother would protect her and understand that she acted out of ignorance. She was only but a child.

A sense of powerlessness washes over Vivan as she realized that her mother's emotional manipulation still had the ability to affect her deeply. It frustrated her to no end that, despite her best efforts to set boundaries and prioritize her own well-being, she found herself caught in this familiar cycle.

At that moment, Vivan felt a mix of sadness, anger, and resentment. She longed for a healthier connection with her mother, one built on mutual respect and understanding. Yet, she also recognized the need to protect her own emotional well-being, even if it meant distancing herself from toxic dynamics.

Taking a deep breath, Vivian did what she knew how to do best. Look upbeat and cheerful even when her world could be collapsing.

Vivian knew that breaking free from this cycle was an essential step towards finding peace within herself, but the guilt buried deep inside gnawed and mocked her.

"I noticed you're all dressed up," Reginald Jr.'s words penetrated Vivian's deep thoughts, and she snapped back to the present moment.

"Sorry, I had to bring you to work on a Sunday. I know you had told me you had a family engagement. But this couldn't wait. Mr Luthor needs to resume work here officially soon. So, all hands must be on deck", Reginald added.

"It's ok Sir", Vivian said with a smile.

"I understand the need for urgency. I'm here to support the company, and I'll do what needs to be done", Vivian said avoiding Leslie's piercing eyes that were fixed on her.

"Thank you, Vivian. I appreciate your understanding. I have shared your contact details with Mr. Luthor so that he can reach out to you for any assistance he may require"; Reginald said. When Vivian didn't speak up, he added. "I hope that's fine ".

"It's fine, Sir. Please let me know if there's anything else I can assist with.", Vivian replied.

"Thank you, Vivian. I know I can count on you. Your support during this transition will be crucial. We'll regroup on Monday to discuss further plans. Enjoy the rest of your day."

With a nod of gratitude, Vivian took her leave from Reginald Jr.'s office. Her mind raced with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty, knowing that the interaction with Leslie Luthor was inevitable. She contemplated the potential challenges that lay ahead and prepared herself mentally for the new chapter in her professional journey.

Little did Vivian know that this encounter with Leslie Luthor, intertwined with her professional obligations and personal history, would set in motion a series of events that would test her resilience, blur the lines between her personal and professional life, and ultimately shape her future in ways she couldn't have anticipated

As Vivian pulled her car into her parents' compound, her mind remained preoccupied with the events of the day. However, as she stepped out of the vehicle and took in her surroundings, she couldn't help but notice the grandeur of her father's mansion.

The sprawling estate was surrounded by well-manicured lawns, adorned with vibrant flowers and neatly trimmed hedges. A cobblestone pathway led Vivian from the driveway to the entrance of the house, accentuating the luxurious atmosphere.

The front facade of the mansion was an impressive sight to behold. The architecture exuded elegance and sophistication, with its grand columns and expansive windows that allow glimpses into the opulence within. The building stood tall and imposing, a symbol of her father's success. Vivian's mind drifted momentarily to father, Victor Moore was a man with many sides. During their childhood, he was very attentive and loving, but at some point, something changed. Now her father was never home, always on trips and business meetings that would take him away for months. A part of Vivian felt for her mother, Vivian knew her mother was living a very lonely life.

Vivian approached the front door, which was made of rich, dark wood and exquisitely carved with intricate designs. The door was flanked by elegant sconces, casting a warm glow on the entrance, even in the fading daylight.

As she reached for the door handle, she couldn't help but recall the countless memories she had within these walls.

The grand staircase in the foyer, the chandeliers that illuminated the rooms with a soft glow, and the tastefully decorated interiors all served as reminders of the privileged life she once knew.

However, mixed with the sense of awe and nostalgia, there was a tinge of disconnect.

As she took it all in, her most beautiful memories and the darkest of them all flashed before her. The very dark moments of her life.

Taking a deep breath, Vivian pushed. open the door and stepped into the familiar surroundings. The scent of polished wood and subtle hints of expensive perfume filled the air, enveloping her senses. She braced herself for the family engagement she had initially planned to attend, knowing that navigating the dynamics of her family and their expectations would require her to find a delicate balance between her own desires and the weight of tradition.

Vivian had no inkling that her return to this mansion, intertwined with her professional challenges and personal history, would set in motion a series of revelations and transformations that would shape her life in ways she couldn't have foreseen.

"Vivian won't you come in", Vivian again was startled back to the present and this time; it was her mother's voice she heard.