Chapter 6

Chapter 6

“Lucas Vale.”

I stared at the photograph on my computer screen, studying the man whose face had been etched into my memory since the day I died.

He looked exactly as I remembered him. Dark hair, sharp features, a perfectly tailored suit and a stoic expression that made it hard to even guess what he was thinking.

I adjusted myself and leaned forward, closer to my computer screen.

“Who are you really?” I muttered. Of course, the photograph couldn't answer me. I opened another tab and began reading an article about Vale Technologies.

‘Lucas Vale, the youngest executive in the Vale family, has continued to expand the company's influence in the technology sector…’

“Interesting.” I scrolled down. “Smart devices, artificial intelligence, digital security...” I muttered. “So, this is where you make your money.”

I opened another article and this time, it was a publication about his rivalry with Darian Johnson. The headline alone made me smile. “Well well well, look how lucky I am” I laughed.

‘VALE TECHNOLOGIES CHALLENGES JOHNSON CORPORATION FOR DOMINANCE IN THE TECH INDUSTRY.’

“Now that's something I would love to see.” I clicked on the article immediately.

According to the report, Lucas had recently withdrawn from a partnership with a smaller technology company. The decision had surprised several investors because the partnership was expected to generate millions.

“Why would you walk away from a profitable deal?” I continued reading, but the article offered little explanation. Apparently, Lucas had refused to comment on the matter. Seems he's really secretive. So what exactly made him appear at the lake that night.

A knock interrupted my thoughts.

“Miss Selena?”

I quickly minimized the browser window. “Yes?”

The door opened slightly, and Mrs. Grace stepped inside. “Are you feeling better now?”

I turned towards her. “I'm fine, Mrs. Grace.”

My response made her frown. “Are you sure? You came home looking exhausted, and you didn't even have your phone or handbag with you.” I forced a small smile and assured her.

“I must have misplaced them.”

“Misplaced them?” She raised an eyebrow. “Selena, you went to Stephanie's graduation party with a handbag. How do you return without it?”

“I honestly don't know.”

“Did something happen at the party?”

I hesitated. Mrs Grace has always been a wonderful person to me in this house. She is the nanny but she treated me like her own child.

“Nothing serious.” I eventually said, assuring her.

“Then why do you look like someone who hasn't slept in days?” I almost laughed at her question.

Because I died in my previous life, Mrs. Grace. Although I didn't tell her that, she might get a heart attack. But it's good to see someone care for me. “I'm just tired.”

She studied me for a moment before walking towards my desk. “Have you eaten anything?”

“Not yet.”

“Then close that computer and come downstairs. You can't spend the entire day staring at a screen.”

“I'll eat later.”

“Selena.”

I sighed. “Alright, alright. I'll come down in a few minutes.” She shook her head.

“You young people and your computers. One day, that thing will become your husband.”

I chuckled. “I'm sure it would be a better husband than most men.”

Mrs. Grace laughed. “Your mouth! Anyway, I'll bring something up for you.”

“Thank you.”

She turned towards the door, but paused. “Oh, and Jacob has been asking about you.”

My fingers stopped moving. “Jacob?”

“Yes. He came home earlier and wanted to know whether you had returned.”

I swallowed. “What did you tell him?”

“That you were upstairs resting. Why?”

“Nothing. I just don't feel like talking to anyone right now.” Mrs. Grace nodded.

“I understand. But don't let the two of you start fighting again. You know how he can be.”

I lowered my gaze. If only you knew. “I'll try.”

She finally left, closing the door behind her. I stared at the wooden door for several seconds.

Jacob. Even hearing his name made my stomach tighten. In my previous life, he had looked me in the eyes and told me I should never have been adopted. Then he shot me.Twice.

I clenched my fists. “Enjoy your peace while it lasts, Jacob.”

I turned back to my computer. There was no point dwelling on him now. I had a bigger problem to solve. Like discovering Lucas Vale identity. I opened his company's official website and searched through its recent announcements.

A particular headline caught my attention.

VALE TECHNOLOGIES TO ANNOUNCE A NEW SMART DEVICE INVESTMENT.

I clicked immediately. “An upcoming investment?”

The announcement stated that the company was preparing to introduce a new technology initiative within the next few weeks. The details were limited, but it appeared to involve smart devices and consumer technology.

I smiled. “This could be useful.”

I leaned back in my chair. I had always loved designing things. Even before everything went wrong, I spent hours sketching jewellery, accessories and little devices that I wished existed.

Most people considered my designs a hobby but I knew they could become something more. And if I wanted to build a life that didn't depend on Darian or the Johnson family, I needed to start somewhere.

Lucas was the perfect person to approach. He had the resources, the connections and the business experience I needed. But there was a problem.

Why would a man like Lucas Vale agree to meet someone like me? I opened a new document and began writing.

“Good afternoon, Mr Vale. My name is Selena Bruce, and I would like to discuss a business opportunity with you.”

I stopped. “No. Too ordinary.” I deleted the sentence.

“Mr Vale, I have an idea that could complement your company's upcoming technology initiative.”

I read it again. “Better.”

I continued typing, explaining how technology could be incorporated into everyday fashion accessories, particularly jewellery.

I described a collection of smart accessories that could combine elegant designs with practical digital features. It was an idea I had been developing for years and I knew the market was ready for it.

I smiled at the screen. “This is it.” A few minutes later, I heard footsteps outside my room.

A knock interrupted my thoughts.

“Selena!”

My fingers froze above the keyboard. I knew that voice. For a moment, I couldn't breathe. My eyes remained fixed on the screen, but the words in front of me blurred until they became nothing more than meaningless lines.

“Selena! Open this damn door!”