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Dinner Invitation

Author: Beth
last update Last Updated: 2025-05-08 20:20:00

ZOE’S POV 

The office was already buzzing when we arrived, the kind of organized chaos that came with launching something bold and new. Owen had built this place from scratch, I had only joined him in the completion, a couple of weeks ago. After all the late-night meetings and planning. Every inch of it now reflected power—and soon, it would reflect justice.

Around 3:15, Owen’s receptionist spoke over the intercom.

“Mr. Perkins is here to see you.”

“Perfect. Send him in.”

I remained in my office for now, letting Owen take the lead. I needed the moment to be perfect.

I watched through the glass wall between our offices, as Austin walked in—tall, composed, polished as ever. The son of a billionaire, who has also worked hard for his own success. Charming. Respected. Oblivious.

They exchanged pleasantries, Owen offering him a drink before diving into the details of the proposed collaboration. From what I could hear, Austin was intrigued, nodding along, asking the right questions. Then came the moment.

“So,” Austin said, glancing around, “where’s Chloe? I thought she’d be here.”

Owen played it cool. “She had something to attend to, but she should be joining us any second now.”

Just in time. 

I opened the door and walked in. My heels clicked softly against the floor. Austin turned and stared at me in wonder.

“Just the woman I wanted to see.” he said, standing quickly. “Wow. you two are really identical. I can't still stop being surprised.”

I shook his hand, smiling just enough. “It’s good to see you again, Austin. Nice of you to stop by.”

“How's my sister doing? Oh. And Jamie?”

“Yeah, you haven't seen in him years too, right?” he asked, his eyes lighting up as I mentioned Jamie. My son. “He’s grown so much. Zoe and I, we… we’re really lucky to have him. I told him we saw you. I'm sure he has missed you.”

I swallowed the ache and forced a warm smile. “I’ve missed him so much too. It's been a long time I spent time with both of them.”

Austin nodded, thoughtful. “You know… we should all have dinner. This weekend, at our place. Since you’re family and now business partners, it only makes sense. You and Zoe can catch up and you'll also get to see Jamie.”

I couldn’t speak for a moment. The words kept replaying in my mind.

Dinner. At their home. With my son.

I let a surprised laugh escape. “That’s… wow. That’s really kind of you, Austin.”

I turned to Owen, lifting a brow. “What do you think? Are you okay with a little family dinner?”

Owen smiled and leaned back in his chair. “Who am I to get in between twin sisters’ reunion?”

We all laughed.

“Then it’s settled,” Austin said, standing. 

“Oh. Austin, could you please not tell my sister about the dinner invitation? I'd like to surprise her again. But, especially Jamie.” I said smiling. 

Austin chuckled. “Not a problem. Tomorrow night. Eight sharp.”

“We’ll be there.” I said smoothly.

I could feel my heart racing as he walked out of the office. I dropped the act the moment the door closed behind him. A satisfied smile curved across my lips as I looked at Owen.

“I can't imagine the look on Chloe’s face when we suddenly show up at their home for dinner,” I murmured. “And even better, I’ll finally get to see my Jamie.”

Owen laughed. “Let’s just hope she doesn’t pass out from the surprise.”

I was unable to laugh. My mind was racing with possibilities.

I’d be in her home. Sitting at her table. Looking into the eyes of the boy she’d stolen from me. And maybe, just maybe, Austin would start to see the cracks in Chloe’s story.

Because I wasn’t done. Not even close. 

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

CHLOE'S POV 

Ever since that morning over breakfast, a couple of days ago. I still couldn’t shake off the feeling of uneasiness wrapping around my spine and won't let go.

Something wasn’t right. 

Owen.

And where Owen was, Zoe was close behind.

But I couldn’t press the matter further. I could only force my face into that perfect, practiced smile I’d worn for months now. Because I couldn’t afford to let Austin see the panic building under my skin.

All day, I tried to shake it off. I busied myself with errands, organizing Jamie’s room, going over notes for an upcoming charity event. But nothing worked. That feeling only grew stronger—like something was coming, something I couldn’t outrun.

So when Austin walked through the front door just after seven, I was sitting stiffly on the couch, mind miles away.

“Zoe?”

I jumped in surprise.

He laughed softly. “You okay?”

“Yeah. Sorry, I was just… distracted.” I quickly smoothed my dress and stood. “How was your day?”

“Productive,” he said. But he looked concerned for a moment. “Are you sure you’re okay? You’ve seemed off since yesterday.”

I forced a soft laugh and waved a hand. “Just tired. Probably from chasing Jamie around yesterday.”

He nodded, not pressing it. That was one of the things about Austin. He was careful with me. Always a little cautious, like he knew there was something deeper but didn’t want to pry. Especially since our marriage was still settling into its shape, even after months.

Speaking of Jamie…

“He’s in his room?” Austin asked.

“Yes,” I replied quickly. 

With that, Austin walked upstairs.

Later, as we prepared for dinner, Austin mentioned casually, “Inform the staff we're having guests over this evening.”

“Guests?” I asked, trying to keep my voice cool.

“Business partners.” He replied heading towards the couch to sit with Jamie, before I could ask further. 

I was bothered by the unknown, but I focused on the preparations. I got myself busy in the kitchen, trying to stay calm as the staff set the table. 

Someone rang the doorbell.

I heard the door open and Austin’s voice welcoming someone. Then Jamie's excited exclamation; “Mommy.”

My heart stopped. I walked out of the kitchen, holding wine glasses in hand. And saw Zoe standing in the entryway. Jamie wrapped his arms around her, smiling broadly.

The glasses fell from my hands and broke into pieces.

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