Ch-4

Elara’s POV

The night was cold and chilly as I stood by the gates of my former home with two suitcases by my side.

I pulled out my phone with steady fingers and dialed Grandpa’s number.

His voice was already covered with sleep when he answered.

“Grandpa… I’m ready,” I informed.

“I’ll send the driver.” he simply said.

Less than thirty minutes later, a black Prado pulled up in front of the estate. I quickly hopped in, trying not to spend more time here than I already have.

When I arrived at my family mansion, the gate flung open before we even honked. Grandpa stood outside, still in his night robe, and under the porch light.

“Welcome back home, child,” he greeted me, his arms wide open.

I ran into them. Tears spilled from my eyes as I mumbled again, “I’m sorry, Grandpa. I’m so sorry…”

He patted my back and pulled away slightly to look at me.

“Don’t cry again, my child. You are home now, and that is all that matters. For honoring my wish, I will throw a lavish party for your homecoming. All the dignitaries in the city will be present. You can have as much fun as you missed out on all these years.”

I managed a tearful chuckle.

“So go and freshen up and relax for a while,” he added, “because your big day is cominggggg”

*************************************

The ballroom glittered under chandeliers. Golden ribbons, cream drapes, roses in tall vases. Every inch of the room screamed elegance, wealth, and legacy.

My custom emerald gown hugged my body perfectly and I could see heads turn whenever I passed by them.

I had secretly snuck Adrian’s name onto the guest list the other day so I was sure he was present.

I can’t wait to see his face when he realizes I am no ordinary girl to be played with.

Before marrying Adrian, I had a purpose. I was trained to be the next CEO of my family business, to lead, and expand the business empire.

But I had let go of it all to chase after a man who viewed me as nothing more than a substitute,

Now, standing in this ballroom, filled with power and grace, all I could think of was to show this man where power lies.

Adrian’s POV

The moment I saw the invitation, I grinned.

A homecoming event for the granddaughter of Alonso Revaz Group’s chairman? That was huge.

Life was beginning to favor me again. No more Elara to drain my energy with endless emotions.

This event was my ticket to success because. If I played my cards right, I could find someone richer, gullible, and more useful to replace her.

I had come here in a hired clean tuxedo to impress the people I interact with. Oh my days, I can't believe how great life will be when I finally get on these people’s level.

“Ladies and gentlemen…” the Chairman called, jolting me out of my thoughts.

“Thank you all for honoring my invitation. It is with pleasure that I present my long-lost granddaughter, Elara Sanz Alonso l…..”

I nearly dropped my wine glass as the supposed granddaughter of the Oldman Alonso mounted the stage.

“What?!” I gasped under my breath, staring intently at her without a blink.

Elara?

My Elara was related to the infamous Sanz Alonso dynasty? How come I didn’t know?

Descending like royalty in that green gown, her hair was swept up, with diamonds dancing on her neck like it was common.

No. No, no, no. This couldn’t be real. This must be a stunt or something like that…

Because ain't no way this was the Elara I mocked and dismissed the other night.

I couldn’t breathe.

Throughout the rest of the event, my eyes were fixated on her. I couldn't be happier when the event ended.

With quickness, I pushed through the crowd and caught her alone near the terrace doors.

“Elara!” I called.

She turned slowly, but her face was unreadable.

“What do you want, Adrian?”

“What did I hear just now? You’re the Alonso Revas heiress? And you never told me about it?”

She scrutinised me from head to toe as she disgustingly asked. “Does it matter now?”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” I stepped closer, and my hands were shaking. “If I had known, I…”

She cut me off. “Would you have treated me better?”

“Yes,” I answered without hesitation.

The slap that came after was too fast, loud, and hard. It was sharp enough to make the few remaining guests nearby turn their heads.

“You bastard,” she said, in a strong tone. “I gave you years of my life. I loved you with everything in me. And now you tell me you would’ve only treated me right if you knew I was rich?”

“I didn’t mean it like that!”

She rolled her eyes at me and attempted to leave but I quickly grabbed her arm. “Elara, listen. We can annul the divorce. We can fix this. It’s not too late…”

“Pathetic! Let go of me, Adrian!”

“Elara, please!”

“Let. Me. Go!”

She continued to struggle against my firm grip, her voice piercing through the air as onlookers murmured among themselves.

Just as she was screaming, another hand grabbed my hand and yanked me backward.

I turned immediately and was ready to throw a punch when I stopped midway.

The man’s intense gaze sent shivers down my spine. He looked sophisticated and powerful. He was wearing a Midnight-black suit, with striking eyes, and a dangerous calmness.

“Don’t you ever set your filthy hands on what belongs to me ever again,” he bellowed.