Chapter 6 - What did he mean by 'again'?

KATHERINE'S POV

Six years later…..

Life in London has felt like a constant battle ever since I left behind my family, my career, and everything I cherished due to the false accusations against me.

"Mom, do you think this looks good?" my six-year-old son asked, holding up a shirt for me to see, his face lighting up with a smile that reminded me of a man I could never forget—the one who transformed my life.

"Franklin, you’d look absolutely dashing in it! Hurry up so the nanny can help you get ready before we head to the airport," I replied, watching him dash out of the room.

It’s been six years since I was forced out of the Alexander mansion, leaving with nothing but shattered hopes. Returning to my parents' house was not an option; I had to rely on my best friend, Hazel, for support. It was during that time that I discovered I was pregnant, which fueled my determination to chase my dreams and rebuild my career, no matter the obstacles in my path.

With Hazel's unwavering support and my savings, we secured a visa and embarked on a new chapter in London, where I completed my master’s degree. As I gazed around the room, my heart filled with gratitude as I admired a few of my artworks. Upon arriving in London, I landed several lucrative deals as a visual artist, and my creations gained significant popularity. But today marks my return to Texas, where I intend to reclaim everything I lost tenfold, seek justice against those who tarnished my name, and, most importantly, revive my mother's company—which was why I initially married Alexander. I have worked tirelessly to revive it, and though it seemed nearly impossible, I have successfully restored it.

After what felt like an eternity, Franklin, Hazel—now my personal assistant—and I disembarked from the plane. The air in Texas felt different, and a wave of déjà vu washed over me as I returned to the city where I had been wronged and treated poorly.

"The meeting with Roda-Tech Company is set for an hour and thirty minutes from now," Hazel announced, her voice brimming with excitement.

"Thank you, Hazel," I replied, rubbing my temples in an effort to ease my nerves.

"I can't believe you landed a deal with Roda-Tech Company!" Hazel exclaimed, holding Franklin's hand as we made our way to the car.

"No, Hazel. They signed a deal with us because they recognized the potential in my company," I clarified. Roda-Tech is one of the biggest tech companies in the world, and now they seem to have recognized what we can offer.

"Katherine, don’t you think it’s time to take a step back? I understand that Alexander has hurt you, but don’t forget about the child you both share," Hazel suggested, prompting me to pause for a moment.

"You really don’t understand what I’m going through," I replied, letting out a deep sigh. "All I want is for him to have the same experiences I did—nothing more," I added before getting into the car. I need to find whoever uploaded my nudes and make them pay. As for Alexander, he also must pay for everything.

Before long, we arrived at a place I recognized well. As I sat in the car, I glanced back at the logo that read “Roda-Tech."

I soon opened the door and stepped out with my son and Hazel. After Franklin threw a fit earlier about not wanting to stay alone in the hotel room—and insisting on coming with me—I had no choice but to let him join, as long as he promised not to be a distraction.

"Remember our deal, buddy. No trouble for Mommy during the meeting," I reminded Franklin, who nodded earnestly.

"Cross my heart, Mom. I’ll be the mature one there, promise!" Franklin grinned, flashing his bright smile.

Franklin's infectious charm never failed to win people over. His bright smile and sharp wit often melted even the sternest of hearts—both young and old, men and women alike. It was a quality that made him not just adorable but also endearing in ways that left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

"That’s right, Franklin. Just be a good boy."

As I stepped out of the car, a woman dressed in a sharp black-and-white outfit approached us with a warm greeting. Her tailored blazer and crisp white blouse exuded professionalism, and her confident stride suggested she was no stranger to the corporate world.

"Good morning, Miss Katherine, it's a pleasure to meet you," the woman, whom I assumed was the PA, said, her voice smooth and inviting. I nodded in acknowledgment.

“The CEO is waiting for you in the meeting room," another man in his late thirties informed us as we followed him down a sleek, modern corridor adorned with abstract art and polished marble floors.

Upon entering the room labeled 'Meeting Room,' I noticed a group of individuals whom I presumed were the company's board members. They sat around a large, oval table, their expressions a blend of curiosity and expectation.

Just then, my gaze shifted to the right-hand side, where I saw someone I didn’t expect to see here—Alexander Blake. His eyes locked onto mine, and for a brief moment, time seemed to freeze. His usually confident demeanor faltered; I could see the shock ripple across his face. His piercing blue eyes widened in recognition as we entered. Just as he regained his composure and opened his mouth to say something, Franklin’s voice echoed through the hall, breaking the tension like a sudden clap of thunder.

"It's great to see you again, Daddy," Franklin's words resonated, drawing everyone's surprised gazes toward us. The room fell silent, the board members exchanging glances, their expressions shifting from shock to disbelief.

“It’s great to see you again?” I muttered, my mind fixating on Franklin's last word.

What did he mean by "again"?