SARA’S POVI was late, and I knew it. I didn’t really want to go to the family’s house, where I had to pretend like everything was okay with my marriage. But that didn’t mean I could miss Grandpa’s birthday. Let alone, I had already promised Grandma that I’d be in attendance.I got out of the car with my present in hand after about an hour of driving. I approached the crowd of people mingling as a subtle music played in the background. Danielle and Derek were already there. Danielle approached me with a bright smile plastered on her face as soon as she saw me. “Mummy, you're here!” She said with so much excitement as she ran to hug me, and I bent down to pick her up. “Someone is in a good mood,” I said, teasing her.“Grandpa said I can open his gifts with him later today, we’re going to have so much fun together.” She said excitedly.I watched her with excitement before placing her down. “That’s amazing, now come help me look for him so I can give him a present,” I said, holding h
SARA’S POVI stared at the final version of my design for the competition one more time before emailing it. After a few minutes of processing, it was finally sent. I felt light and a little anxious, but I knew I was happy. People never respected a mere homemaker, I wanted to be more than a mother. To prove to myself and to those who looked down on me that I’m more than capable of making an impact, by doing what I love.I wanted to matter, I wanted to be a role model to my daughter, and this change had to start from me. I got dressed because I had to stop by Alaric's office today. I was as excited as a child who was promised a date to the park.I didn’t know whether it was because I was going to see him after the trip or because I’d be in such a workspace.On arrival, I was quite impressed by the subtle and warm environment as I walked in with my head held high. The key to standing out anywhere is to walk and act confidently. I noticed some workers standing at the side, they were all
SARA’S POVIt was hard to ignore Derek and Alyssa standing at a corner because there was a way Alyssa’s presence intimidated me, probably because I believed she was someone I would never be, no matter how hard I tried. I managed to shrug that thought off my mind and focus on my own life, no matter what, Derek and Alyssa would always be around. It was about time I started getting used to their presence and started making it bother me less.The rest of the night went so well because other designers also acknowledged my talent and were willing to work with me. I felt proud of myself for coming this far, My independence and professional growth were very obvious and recognized. The night ended with everyone returning to their rooms. The next few days passed pleasantly, filled with engaging sessions and fruitful exchanges.Thankfully, I haven’t seen Derek and Alyssa again since that awful encounter. That just makes it even better. I sketched my designs for the competition and discussed
Sara’s POV“What are they doing here?” Rina asked after spotting them.“I have no idea.”I felt uneasy the moment I saw them approach us. Just when I thought this was going to be a good day, they just had to show up here. What the hell were they even here for? They had no business with the exhibition.Rina held my hands and squeezed them lightly.“Calm down, don’t let anything ruin your day.” She mustered as they were already close to us.Derek’s eyes widened in surprise as he saw me standing there, which was ironic to me because he definitely knew I was here and he was here to taunt me.As soon as Jules spotted them, he rushed to Alyssa while I stood there, waiting for everything to unfold.“Miss Alyssa, it is such a delight to have you here today with us. We are more than honored by your presence.” He said with so muc
SARA’S POVThe exhibition finally kicked off.Honestly, a few months ago, I couldn’t even imagine I’d be standing here today—checking out all these amazing exhibits with a bunch of talented designers.I can literally feel the excitement in the air, this buzzing passion for fashion, and it’s kind of intoxicating.I’m back.The only thing that’s slightly annoying? Jules is here too.Ever since that night we met, he’s been sticking to us like glue, and all his annoying traits keep showing.I’ve been trying to ignore him, even though he’s constantly looking for chances to throw jabs at anyone he thinks doesn’t measure up to him. And naturally, here I am—the perfect target.This morning, as the four of us walked through the exhibition, every time I said something about a piece, he’d jump in to contradict me.I barely even bother arguing—what’s the point with someone like him? And Rina and Alaric have been on my side the whole time, so he doesn’t even get a chance to stir anything up. He ju
THIRD PERSON POVAfter the concert, Derek Alyssa took Danielle over to the car.Derek opened the back door, and Danielle was seated in the backseat with excitement written all over her face. "That was amazing!" she exclaimed.Derek opened the front door for Alyssa, and she got in with a smile.“Thank you, Danielle, I’m glad you enjoyed it,” Alyssa said, with a content smile plastered on the corner of her lips."You should bring me to every one of your concerts in the future. I can't even wait for the next," Danielle said, poking her head into the front seat.“Sit back and use your seatbelt, Danielle.” Derek reprimanded her. Danielle scoffed and hesitantly sat back and used her seatbelt. “You don’t need to yell at her, she’s just excited, and that’s normal,” Alyssa said, looking back and smiling at Danielle, who smiled back. “Don’t make me look like a bad person now, I’m just trying to make sure she’s safe. She needs to know it’s important to have her seatbelt on at all times. And I