Chapter 4

Two years later

SARAH

“Is everything ready? Where is Nelly?” Aunt Olivia asked, wearing her earrings with a smile beaming on her face.

I was so happy, I ensured everything was in place with the help of my employees. There was a lot to be grateful for, my career and my dear son, Nelly.

“Everything is in place Aunt, and Nelly is fine,” I replied excitedly as I patted my cheeks.

Aunt Olivia and I were discussing about ST Atelier event when my phone suddenly rang. It was a call from Josh and I answered quickly.

“I’ve sent more invitations to some top-tier fashion brands. They will be present at your event tomorrow. I am sure all of them will be impressed and would want to partner with you. I am proud of you!” Josh's happy voice came from the other end of the call.

“Oh mine, I don’t know how to appreciate you. You’ve proven to be a true friend all these years. Words are not enough to express my appreciation.” I uttered with all humility.

“You’ve proven to be exceptional in your field and the least I can do is tell others about you. Cheers to more wins.” He praised me and I rolled my eyes as though he could see me.

“Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! That's all I have to say, Josh.”

Accomplishing my dreams wouldn’t have been easy if not for Aunt Olivia and Josh.

Josh was also into the fashion industry and we worked on the first project I got after my marriage with Caleb ended. He taught me how to use digital software to make my designs exquisite and unique. I established my brand; ST Atelier and I’ve gotten numerous clients and of course more profits.

The event that will be happening the next day is a fashion hunt show that I will use to exhibit my latest collection and launch it.

After the call, I picked up my phone to watch some reels on TIKTOK. I needed to have some time off work and have fun.

The first video that welcomed me was that of Caleb and Laura in a romantic position. I felt my stomach twist like a knot. It’s been a long time yet their betrayal still pierced my heart.

I quickly turned my data off, held my phone tightly, and hissed.

“Why the sudden change in mood?” Aunt Olivia asked with confusion visible in her eyes as I glanced at her.

I can’t let the video get to me. How will I tell Aunt Olivia the reason behind my sudden change in mood?

“It is nothing. I just remembered I had a design to finish up by the end of today.” I uttered and made my way to Nelly’s room.

Nelly was sleeping peacefully in his crib and my heart couldn’t help but tinged with joy. ‘Caleb broke my heart but Nelly has amended it to a large extent.’ I muttered to myself, walking out of the room slowly so as not to wake him up.

I had no business with my ex-husband, everything now revolves around me, Nelly, and my career.

“Sarah, we have to be at the office now.” Aunt Olivia’s voice filled the air. I returned downstairs and I could read the indifferent look she wore. She wanted to ask if everything was okay, she wanted to know if I told her the truth earlier or if I was hiding something from her.

I waved it off and led the way out of the house. As I drove us to Aunt Olivia’s company, the air felt tense than ever and I couldn’t explain why.

When we arrived, I heard the numerous greetings ringing from every side but I remained quiet while Aunt Olivia responded.

Aunt Olivia’s secretary approached us in a hurry. “Good morning ma, the meeting with Haley Ventures began a few minutes ago and the representatives are waiting in the conference room.”

Aunt Olivia gave a nod. “Yeah right, I will be there now.”

I was about to tell Aunt Olivia that I would be waiting at her office when she said. “Sarah, come with me. I know you have your business but there is no crime in knowing my works too.”

I smiled, “Fine.” It was like she read my mind. I wondered how this woman knew me to the point of reading my thoughts.

As we stepped into the conference room, memories of my dark past hit me. I coughed as I patted my chest. I tried to capture the face of the young man among six middle-aged people.

“Caleb Haley,” I whispered. “What deal is he here for?”

My words were audible to Aunt Olivia and she replied. “I have no idea. I never knew it was a meeting with him. Just remain calm.”

A low exhale escaped my lips. I avoided his gaze and sat beside my aunt. I must say his aura has changed, our paths have not crossed since the divorce papers saga but he didn’t look bad. He must have accomplished a lot over the years.

Caleb looked at me. “Hi, Sarah.”

I didn’t bother replying as I extended my greeting to everyone. “Good day everyone.”

I could feel Caleb’s eyes on me as my aunt anchored the meeting. The distance did a lot of harm. The man I once shared my heart with is now a total stranger to me. No connection! No spark! Nothing at all!

“I am impressed with your proposals on this project Aunt Olivia. I must confess a lot has changed. I never knew you were the director of this firm. Good job!” Caleb uttered respectfully, but his eyes were fixed on me.

“Thank you,” Aunt Olivia said with a smile.

Thirty minutes later, the meeting was over. I walked closely behind Aunt Olivia when a male voice rang out.

“Why are you ignoring your husband, Sarah?”

The word husband irritated me, I shook my head and was about to take a step out when Aunt Olivia whispered. “Face him, free your heart.”

Memories of my painful past engulfed my heart. It is best I face him so I can have a free mind. I looked at Caleb.

“You are not my husband. That bond was long broken.” I exhaled and added. “Caleb, I don’t want to ever have anything to do with you.”

“Really? You look beautiful as always. I must say, I am happy to see you.” He said calmly.

I hissed because I did not believe his words. He always knew the words to make one feel better but now it will not work.

“Your happiness doesn’t matter to me, go tell that to your mistress. You sent me divorce papers without feeling guilty. We should have had a peaceful dialogue but no, you treated me like a trash. Henceforth, I don’t know you. You are in my past and long forgotten.”

He snorted, his expression unreadable. “We will see about that. Your friend told me a lot about you. Why didn’t you tell me you were unable to get pregnant because you have no womb resulting from several abortions?”

I frowned, “What?”

“Why are you pretending?”

I shook my head and said. “I don’t know what you are talking about. There is no point explaining anything to you now.”

“You…”

Before he could complete his statement, I announced. “I have better things to attend to.”

“Aren’t you happy to see me? Don’t you miss me?” Caleb said in a sarcastic tone.

I turned to the door and took a deep breath. I can’t let my emotions betray me before him. The Sarah he once knew is now renewed and transformed.

“You have no idea of what I have become since you betrayed me. "