Chapter One

The door to her bedroom flew open, startling her. Mother stood in front of the door, a slight frown on her made up face. She looked more dressed up than usual. Dakota grabbed her sketch book from the table to show her the designs she’d been working on.

“Mother, I just finished the—,” She attempted to speak.

“Get yourself something nice to wear. We are having an important guest over soon.” She spoke out, cutting Dakota off. Her eyes trailed the blue jeans shorts and white T-shirt she had on, a look of distaste on her face. “Don’t come out looking like that.” 

Dakota peered down at her clothes, as if she just realized what she was wearing. She wondered who the important guest was that made Mother act nervous and eager to please.  

“Who’s the guest we’re having over? Is it about work?” She asked, curious.

Mother stared at her for a while, like she was debating whether to answer or not. With a smug smile, she finally responded. “Diana’s getting married soon to one of the Persson’s sons. He’s coming over to take her out on a date. It would be rude not to say hello, so wear something… presentable.” She waved a hand dismissively, turned and walked out of the room.

Dakota didn’t see the need to dress up for a guest that wasn’t even going to stay long, but she knew better than to point it out when Mother had that serious look on her face. She opened her wardrobe and stared defeatedly at the numerous casual wears she had. Surely, Mother didn’t expect her to change into another pair of jeans and a T-shirt. 

She spotted something black amidst her casual clothes and pulled it out. It was a flair knee length dress with a plunging neckline she didn’t remember buying. It would have to do for this important guest. Not like Dakota cared enough anyway, she wasn’t the one getting married to the Persson’s son. 

She hurriedly got out of her clothes and pulled on the dress. 

The neckline was too deep but she really didn’t feel like ransacking through her wardrobe to get something more decent, so she moved to the vanity mirror, brushed her dark hair and applied some lip gloss. 

She studied her reflection in the mirror and smiled, satisfied with her appearance. The sound of the doorbell signaled the arrival of Mother’s guest. She vaguely remembered meeting one of the sons at a charity event some months ago. She hoped it wasn’t the son she had met before that was now in their home.

Putting on her slippers, she raced to the door and placed one ear by the side. She could hear Mother’s shrill voice and a deep unfamiliar one but couldn’t make out what they were saying. Letting out a deep breath, she opened her bedroom door and walked out.

The sound of the door closing turned their heads to her direction. Mother frowned deeply. Dakota smiled awkwardly. 

“Elias, this is my eldest daughter, Dakota.” Mother introduced her, facing Elias. 

Dakota turned to face Elias and let out a small gasp. It was him. Of course it had to be the son she had an awkward encounter with. A flash of recognition crossed his face but it faded quickly like she had imagined it. 

Did he remember her? She hoped not.

“Well, don’t just stand there like you’ve seen a ghost. Come say hello.” Mother added, glaring at Dakota.

Dakota slowly moved towards Elias. He didn’t take his eyes off her. “It’s nice to meet you, Mr Persson.” His grip was firm but gentle, as he held her hand a little longer than necessary.

“Likewise, Miss Stone.” His piercing gray eyes made her uncomfortable but she made sure not to show it, matching his gaze. She wondered if he looked at everyone like that.

Mother threw her a questioning look then turned to face Elias. “Diana’s getting ready. She’ll be with you shortly.”

He nodded stiffly, a faint look of discomfort on his face.

For someone getting married soon, he didn’t look ecstatic or eager to meet her sister. On the contrary, he appeared as if he wanted to be anywhere but here. 

“Would you like anything to drink while you wait? A cup of tea perhaps? Or a cup of coffee?” Mother asked eagerly.

Elias looked at his wristwatch impatiently. “A glass of water is fine, thank you.” 

As they moved to the sitting room to settle down, Mother cast her a side glance and gestured towards the kitchen. Today was Martha, their maid’s day off which meant Mother wanted her to get the glass of water. 

Dakota quickly made for the kitchen. She was grateful for the opportunity to escape and gather her thoughts in private. 

What were the odds that the same man she had accidentally spilled her margarita on at a charity event was getting married to her sister?

Setting a clean glass cup and a jug of water on a tray, she proceeded to the living room and placed them before Elias. She felt his eyes on her but didn’t dare look up. 

Diana sauntered downstairs, clad in a red cutout dress with matching silver heels and a silver clutch. Her long blonde hair was straightened to perfection, no strand out of place. “I’m ready now. I hope you didn’t have to wait too long.” She smiled at Elias sheepishly.

“Oh darling, you look absolutely stunning!” Mother gushed happily.

Diana giggled. “Thank you, mom.”

Elias stood up at the sight of her, his expression unreadable.

“We should be on our way. Thank you for your hospitality, Mrs Stone.” Diana moved to stand beside him and slipped her hand in his.

“Of course! Run along now. I’m sure you have a reservation waiting.” Mother clapped in response.

As they advanced to the front door, Elias paused in his steps and turned to look at Dakota.

"Are you married, Miss Stone?” He inquired, much to the surprise of everyone.