Chapter Five: The night she returned

Eva's POV 

It is the day of Damien and Maya’s engagement.

I spent half the day at the spa. My best friend, Dana accompanied me.

While I got my body tended to, I saw Dana's reflection through the mirror. She appeared to be deep in her thoughts.

“Dana?”

She turned to me abruptly.

“Hey, you done?” She walked up to me, asking.

“Not yet. After now, we'll have to check out outfits for tonight's party.” I answered and noticed that she had lapsed into deep thoughts again.

The spa attendant left me in the tub to soak up the honey and milk.

“Dana, are you okay? I noticed you haven't quite been yourself.”

She sighed heavily and spoke in a rush, “Eva, do you really think you can trust this Enzo? I mean, we don't even know him.”

“It's too late to be having thoughts now, Dana. I'm married to him and it's just for the purpose of the revenge.” I assured her.

“I still think it's not all worth it.” She continued, “We don't even know if this is some kind of trap. I've never heard of the name Enzo Hartley before. Why does he show up out of the blues to help you?”

“Dana, this is not a set up, I can assure you that. It's natural that you don't trust him now but you will eventually.”

Seeing her during expression, I added, “I had to take this step in order to save you and Caleb.”

She sighed. 

Just then the attendant arrived and continued the spa treatment. 

I couldn't wait to appear before the Hales different from the woman they knew me to be. Damien will regret ever betraying my trust.

Time passed and we moved to the collection where we took a look at the beautiful dinner dresses on display.

Dana touched a black, sleek gown. It was long and was slit up to the thigh. It looked beautiful.

“This will suit you, Eva.” Dana said and I immediately chose the dress.

“It's $120,000, ma'am.” The cashier told me.

My eyes widened. 

Dana repeated, “$120,000??” 

Shortly after, my phone vibrated in my pocket. 

It was Enzo.

“You're not back yet. It's few hours to the party.”

“I decided to get a gown for the party but—”

“How much is it?”

I hesitated.

“Send the account details and the cost to me immediately.”

Dana's eyes widened upon hearing it.

“He's not serious, is he?” She asked.

But we knew he was the moment he the cashier confirmed payment and my account was wired with a million dollars instantly.

We were both speechless to discuss about it.

Soon we back at the mansion, preparing for the evening. Dana helped me get ready and it only took an hour.

I stared at my reflection in the mirror.

“Girl, you're glamorous.” Dana complimented.

Tears stung my eyelids. Two days ago, I was just a convict suffering from inhumane treatment in the cell.

Now, a confident woman stared back at me with flawless skin, a body con gown clung to her frame, revealing her curves.

“Are you sure you're not Damien Hale's fiáncee??” Dana teased. “The men won't be able to take their eyes off you.”

I smiled despite the pounding noise behind my ribcage. 

I was finally coming face-to-face with my enemies, one of which was the love of my life.

At that instant, there was a knock at the door.

*  *   *

Damien's POV 

The guests were still pouring in, yet the hall looked as if it won't contain all. 

I had no idea why my mother bothered herself inviting so many people. It was just an engagement. If I had my way, only ten people will be in attendance.

I had to succumb to this just to make my mother happy.

My gaze fell on the lilies gracing the entrance and chandelier. It was the prettiest flower and the first day I gave Eva one, it became her favorite because I'd told her she was just as pretty as it.

I shut my eyes and opened them again.

I shouldn't be thinking about her. It's been three years, why can't I get her out of my heart.

I'd tried everything, I'd even stopped myself from visiting her all these years, yet she continued to appear in my dreams.

“It's time, baby. The guest are waiting.” Maya approached me, glowing in her red, short gown.

We walked downstairs, welcomed guests and the party began. 

I was absent-minded in the games I played with Maya, and I honestly did not know why.

Eventually, we took a break, which I was glad about.

I stayed at the top of the stairs from where I could see the entire guests, drinking. Soon, it was time to exchange rings.

There was an unexplainable feeling gnawing in my chest as I stepped downstairs and unto the podium.

The guests had gathered round to witness the exchange.

Maya excitedly slipped hers into my finger and I forced a smile.

As I took her finger in mine, the doors of the hall pulled open, interrupting the exchange.

Due to the guests gathered around, I could not immediately see who had stepped in and I did not bother until there were loud murmurs coming from the crowd.

I'd already slipped the ring into Maya's finger but there was no cheering because the guests were distracted by something or someone behind.

Suddenly, the crowd spread out in halfs, revealing the two figures that had just stepped in.

My mother was the first to react. The manner in which she shot up from her couch, eyes fixed on the figures destablised me.

I traced her gaze and came in direct contact with the most beautiful woman in the hall that night.

Shivers ran down my spine when our gaze met and I could swear to God that Eva Cole was the woman standing in front of me.

Maya's hand fell off my wrist.