Ariana's POVMy entire face drained after encountering someone from my past. He is the least expected person I wanted to see, but at this moment, he is before me, piercing his gaze into my entire body.Why is he here? For his money? What if he tells others what I did? No, I need to stop him.After lots of striving, I am on my feet and enjoying my life with friends like I always dreamt. I reminisce about how difficult it was to reach this point where I am standing. I couldn't have made it here if I didn't find some great friends.Two months ago, I remember disembarking from the bus and nervously looking around myself. I sighed and moved towards a restaurant, ordering a coffee so I could make some decisions."Now, where?" I asked myself while sipping my beverage and looking around. All were busy with themselves and seemed happy, but here I am, all tense, sitting.Shall I go to some motel and rest there, then find some job at restaurants or hotels? But I can't spend money on motels. What
Part- 10Ariana's POV"I won't ever and I trust you all. I just didn't want to burden you," I said, holding Olivia's hand. She held back, saying, "you won't."I gave up, sighing, as I didn't want to hurt her feelings."Girls, we are also here," Luke said, making faces as he saw me and Olivia getting close.Others laughed, seeing his antics, but I only kept adoring their bond, thinking that one day, I want to be a part of this tight-knit group.The rest of the evening went by, filled with laughter and sharing stories. As the night approached, we all decided to call it a day. Olivia insisted that I stay with her, and I hesitated a bit before accepting her offer. Deep down, I knew it was the right decision. Olivia and I already had a strong connection, and I felt grateful for finding such caring friends so quickly.The whole night was filled with anxiety and fear; I was tossing on the bed while Olivia was peacefully somnolent beside me, but it appeared someone stole my slumber."Try again
"Ariana's POV"Shock engulfed my entire body after hearing Ms. Gray from Mr. Connell's mouth. How does he know me? Only this question is revolving in my brain. Is it possible that at some business party we collided? But still, who remembers such a small bump? At least not me, as my ludicrous brain hates this work."Ariana, is your surname Gray? And do you know him?" Luke whispered in my ears. I sweated, closing my eyes, scowling, and turned without answering him."Please take a seat," Mr. Connell said. I could see his expression different from before. It's soft rather than stern, and his voice has concern and affection. Affection? But I have never seen this feeling for myself. I either get sympathy or anger, and concern too, I got, but that too also in the form of pity. So why does Mr. Connell have this expression?I looked at my friends to understand what was happening, but their condition was worse than mine. Their eyes popped out, and I could hear their murmurs, "Is he Mr. Connell?
"Aiden's POV"That caretaker swerved towards me, and shock was the least deserving word that could reflect my emotions after recognizing that girl. She fluttered her eyes, trying to say something through them, perhaps wanting me to keep our encounter a secret.I too don't want to announce this to anyone, as it would be highly humiliating. How am I even supposed to tell others that I helped someone? Moreover, they won't believe me. Yes, she is that person whom I helped for the first and last time.I mean, it’s Ariana Gray. She is standing here with a high ponytail, holding a water can, and some mud over her chin, making it crystal clear that she works here."You?" She whispered, which caused me to come out of the initial shock, but she still had the same expression - terror.Yeah, it can be easily seen on her face. Mr. Smith excused himself, sidling a little after getting a call.Well, I was in shock because of her sudden appearance before me, not seeing her work as a caretaker, as I go
At that moment, as I waited for Grandpa’s final demand, I knew that no matter the demand, I would accept them. As I have to keep striving to be the leader I aspired to become, and I would never let my past define my future again. This was my chance to rise above my mistakes and prove that I was ready to take on the responsibility and lead the company to a brighter future. Also I needed to show Ryan and his father their true place."But for that, you need to fulfil my condition," Grandpa said after a moment and took a file which was kept on the table. I noticed this earlier too but shrugged my thoughts."Take this file and read it. I clearly mentioned not only my shares but," he halted for a moment then continued, "Also, I am willing to give you an opportunity to enter the hospitality sector."An enticing offer! It was always my ambition to try something different from my predecessors. They started their luck in the technology sector and got immense success, and then I only carried that
Ariana’s POV"You," I whispered, filled with despair and fear as Mr. Fierce appeared before me. The worst part is that I am completely unprepared to face him or provide any explanation.It's frustrating to see my luck constantly working against me. I wish for just a moment of mercy from fate. Yet, why am I complaining? Deep down, I should have anticipated that some kind of situation like this could arise.But why is he here? Did he follow me for some insignificant reason? What a penny-pincher. If he truly were stingy, he could have taken all the money from my wallet, but instead, he seems devoid of any compassion.Or perhaps, he missed something, which is why he's here. But why is Mr. Smith accompanying him? There's an aura of prosperity beaming from Mr. Smith's face.Isn't Mr. Smith supposed to be picking up Aiden Connell, Grandfather's grandson, who could arrive any moment? Why is he here with this man, wasting his time?Doesn't Mr. Smith knows how impatient Grandpa is to meet Aiden?
Ariana's POVSilence hung between us as we continued walking. I couldn't decipher what was going on in Mr. Connell's mind, but I felt a sense of delight, deciding to put aside the favor issue and stay focused on the present.Although my perspective toward him had shifted slightly, I couldn't say it had changed entirely.Entering the hall, I intended to call Grandpa, but Mr. Connell stopped me, informing me that Grandpa was on his way. His next words surprised me initially but then triggered a reaction in me."Try acting," he suggested. The thought of acting made me retreat back into my guarded state.Before I could respond, Grandpa approached us. I reminded myself not to forget who Mr. Connell was and how dangerous it could be to mess with him, especially considering he knew my secret.I gratefully thanked Grandpa for stepping in, cherishing him like an angel in my life. However, inwardly, I couldn't help but be cautious about the situation. The encounter with Mr. Connell left me with
Ariana's POVFeeling a sense of urgency and concern, I quickly disconnected the call with Erin, apologising for the abruptness and assuring her that I was fine. Without giving her a chance to react, I rushed outside to figure out what was happening.Standing at the door, I could hear their indistinct voices, indicating a heated argument was taking place. I hesitated, wondering if it was a good idea to intervene. Mr. Smith was not around, and I doubted Mr. Connell knew about Grandpa's health, or else he wouldn't engage in a conflict with him.Despite my reservations, I felt compelled to at least get an understanding of the situation. I cautiously approached the scene, trying not to draw attention to myself.It was evident that there was tension on Grandpa's face and a sense of aggravation on Mr. Connell's. They were engaged in an argument, but I couldn't discern the exact matter of contention.I wanted to make sure everything was alright and that the situation wasn't escalating into som