Cold Hearts and Contract Promises

Every year in Ravelle, a charity event is held in the community with the purpose of supporting the underprivileged, but most of those who attended are dignitaries from different corners who came only to show off their wealth, network, or take photos.

“Zara! Hurry, we're running late,” Amber's voice echoed along the hallway. “We don't want to miss the event, do we?” while looking at herself in the mirror. She wore a white silky-smooth dress, simple and elegant, her hair tied in a bun and used a red bold lipstick ‐ one she reserves for special occasions.

“I'm coming!” Zara responded as she ran towards the door where Amber was standing waiting for her. “How do I look?” She twirled in her glittering black dress with silver straps.

“You look like trouble, let's go,” Amber giggled as they both headed out while she locked the door from behind.

As they arrived at the event, the view was breathtaking. “Wow…” Zara whispered with excitement, tilting her head around slowly, making sure to capture every view. It was a large outdoor courtyard in the Ivory Distinct. Different luxurious cars packed at the entrance while photographs and reporters were all around anyone with a recognizable face taking pictures and conducting interviews.

The yard entrance was decorated with balloons and a large banner that read, “Ravelle Hope for Foundation” while soft music played in the background, other foundation banners placed in corners, photo booths, media crew, and of course, clustered voices of the community elites as they clicked glasses and exchanged pleasantries with soft laughter.

“So much for a charity event,” Amber said, as she could see through the purpose of the whole setting.

“Amber!” a voice from behind called out. She turned to see who it was, and it was Rina, her closest friend.

She waved at her as she drew closer.

“It's quite a surprise to see you here. Events like this always rub you the wrong way,” she said.

Amber gave a soft smile. “Well, Zara wanted to come, and you don't expect she came alone.”

They both continued their conversation, walking towards the registration booth. While they were at it, a sudden commotion at the entrance caught their attention. It was between a young woman and one of the event officials.

“You can't come in here looking like this,” he said, in a very sharp and stern voice.

“And why is that? It's an open event, and I can dress the way I want,” the young woman responded as she tried to squeeze her way through the officials who were already blocking the entrance.

During the struggle, Amber couldn't take it any longer. She hated it to see people in power oppress the less privileged. Before she could think twice, she stepped forward.

“Is this how you treat people you claim to help? Last I checked, this is a community event, and it's open to everyone” she uttered, her tone icy and clear.

The official turned to her, “And who do you think you are?”

“Someone who can't stand public humiliation,” Amber replied. “Aren't you ashamed? Harassing a woman. Now, if you don't want your face on every media outlet tomorrow, I advise you to step aside,” already pulling out her phone.

She didn't know she was already the center of attraction, but she didn't care.

At first, he was reluctant, but he slowly stepped aside, allowing the young girl to pass through. She gave Amber a thankful smile and soon disappeared into the crowd.

“Heyyy, madam knight in shining armor, that was intense,” Rina teased Amber.

“And dramatic,” Zara added. And they both laughed.

“Oh please…” she pushed Rina slightly on the shoulder. They continued to explore the venue.

Meanwhile, across the lawn stood one of the biggest billionaires in Ravelle, Leon Viremont—wearing a black tuxedo that fitted perfectly, crisp, and effortless. He had attended the event on behalf of his father, Douglas Viremont, whose name was called out to have made the biggest donation. Witnessing the drama that had happened between Amber and the event officials, he was fascinated by her boldness. When others are scared to talk so as to not get on the elite's bad side, she stands her ground with distinct confidence.

He lifted his fingers slightly to signal his assistant stood behind him.

“Sir?” Darious Nox responded to the gesture as he pulled closer.

“Find out who she is. The one in the white dress.” Leon said, without turning his gaze.

Darious frowned slightly, “Why? Is there a problem?”

“Just do as I say.”

Darious nodded and disappeared into the crowd.

Soon, the event came to an end, and everyone departed to their various houses. As Leon drove home with his assistant, he couldn't stop thinking about Amber. By around 9:00 p.m., Darious had gotten everything he needed to know about her.

Leon was in his study, standing close to the window, gazing outside with his hands placed underneath his chin as though he was deep in thought. Then, a knock on the door.

“Sir, here's the file you asked for,” Darious said, stretching it forward.

Leon turned from where he was, collected the file, and sat down, flipping through the pages. The first thing his eyes caught was her name.

“Amber Rose Adao… Adao… why does that name sound familiar? Where have I heard it before?” Leon questioned himself, trying to figure it out.

After deep thought, Leon’s memory snapped to focus. A few years back, just before Viremont Holdings became what it was, Leon, at 19 years of age, had run away from home after an intense argument with his father. On that same night, he was robbed and beaten up by some roughs in a dark alley and was left for dead. Just then, a man passing by noticed him. He took him home, treated his wound, gave him food to eat, and directed him back home to safety. That man was Mr. Adao, Amber's father.

Although it's been years, Leon hasn't forgotten that kindness and believes he owes him.

“Interesting…” Leon whispered as he continued going through the pages. He got to know about her father’s death, where she lived, worked, and the debt she had to struggle to pay. Immediately, a thought ran through his mind. He came up with a proposal, one that would benefit the both of them and also repay her father for his kindness in the past year.

He gave a mischievous smile with his right hand rubbing against his chin.