Chapter 23
ALINA’S POV.
“So, you haven’t seen him since then? Talia asked as soon
soon as I was done narrating what had tra
what had transpired between Lucian and me.
I hadn’t seen Lucian since the morning I woke up to an empty bed. I was told he left for a business trip that morning, and it’s been:
week.
“Yeah, and I’m upset.” I frowned, my annoyance evident.
“Uhm, why?”
“What do you mean why?” I glared at her. “He left without telling me. I had to find out from Maya, and he didn’t even have the decency to text me what?!” I snapped when she kept looking at me, amused.
“Oh, nothing.” She chuckled. “I just can’t believe that you would ever be clingy toward Lucian in this lifetime. It’s strange to watch, because only a few weeks ago you hated his guts. Now you’re acting like he’s the air you breathe.”
“Just focus on your work.” I rolled my eyes.
Talia and I had been working on launching my new fashion line. We’d been working remotely because I decided to stay home, to show Lucian I wasn’t secretly meeting up with Adrian, nor did I have anything up my sleeves.
We were only just seeing each other today since the last time.
She had already created a website for me, and my online presence was starting to stir quite a buzz in the fashion world
ALINOVA was the name I chose for my line, a sleek blend of “Afina” and “nova Nova meant new star, perfect for a rising icon.
At first, I worried that using the first three letters of my name would give me away, but then I remembered how dumb Seraphina could be. She would never guess it
Besides, it immersed the brand in my personal identity.
Nova was a Latin word meaning new, or a star that suddenly becomes thousands of times brighter. It symbolized rebirth, reinvention, a powerful emergence from the shadows. A woman becoming a blazing force in the world.
“Alinova‘ represented everything 1 now stood for: a new beginning.. and the rise of a star.
Today, we were supposed to check out some office spaces. We were currently sitting at a coffee shop, waiting for my assistant Mia to confirm the appointment.
Mia was going to be the spokesperson of Alinova until I decided to reveal myself to the world.
She had been a servant at the Blackwood mansion, in fact she served me the night of my rebirth, and because of her calm aura, I’d asked Talia to run a background check on her. She had a degree in Fashion Marketing and Communication, and her record was pristine.
I was surprised someone with such a degree had been working as a maid, but she was beyond happy when I offered her the job. And honestly? She’d been doing a fantastic job so far.
Speak of the devil, Mia walked into the coffee shop.
“Finally, Mial Please tell me you were able to secure the space. I inquired eagerly.
I was planning a fashion show to officially introduce ‘Alinova‘ to the world by next month, and I desperately needed an office space, one that could also double as a showroom to display my designs.
My designs had already been produced and were set to arrive next week.
Ma’s eyes held a spark of excitement, and I knew I was going to like whatever she was about to say.
“Even better, ma’am.” She responded. “A new offer came up, and I went to check it out, that’s why I’m late. I was able to get you a place at Virelan Square.” She was practically bouncing on her feet.
My mouth dropped. Even Talia stopped her click–clacking on the laptop and stared at Mia, wise–eyed.
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6:30 AM
Chapter 23
“You mean “the Virelan Square?” Talia confirmed in shock.
“Yes, Miss Talia.” Mia’s smile was wide with pride.
“How the hell did you secure a space there?” I was beyond shocked, and to be honest, pretty impressed.
ry heart of Elaris.
Virelan Square was a district located at the very!
It was
he city’s premier commercial and corporate center, where enormous glass–and–steel towers loomed over wide, tree–lined streets.
V.S as it is popularly known as is where you would find offices of major tech companies, law firms, investment agencies, and upscale co- working spaces. Below the skyscrapers is where you would find high–end shops, cafés, and private lounges, all within walking distance from each other.
The Blackwood Tower–Lucian’s company–was located there, too.
“You’re not messing with me, right? I’ll cry if this is a prank.” I told Mia, my heart pounding
“It’s not a prank, ma’am. I wouldn’t joke about something this important.” She assured me.
A scream of excitement tore from my throat as I jumped to my feet, hugging Mia tightly.
Thankfully, we were seated in a private section, so I wasn’t causing a full–blown scene.
“You are the best.” I said, planting a big kiss on her cheek. “I knew you were a gem when I hired you.”
“Good job, Mia.” Talia praised, still looking stunned. “You should definitely give her a bonus.” She added, turning to me.
“Oh, I plan on it” I grinned. Talia didn’t need to tell me twice
“Oh my God, thank you so much, ma’am!” Mia said, eyes lighting up with gratitude.
“No, thank you.” I smiled warmly. “When can we check the place out?” My tone was filled with anticipation.
“Anytime you want” She pulled a bunch of keys from her purse and handed them to me. “I’ve already contacted some decorators to begin work tomorrow, based on the aesthetic you described”
Lord, this woman was God–sent.
“You are the best,” I pointed at her with a bright smile. “You know what? We have to celebrate.”
“Now you’re speaking my language Talia perked up, ever the party animal.
I chuckled.
“Mia, book a private lounge at the club.”
“Yes, ma’am.” She took out her phone and began typing swiftly.
“Can you believe this. Talia?” I looked at my best friend, still dazed. “Please tell me this isn’t a dream”
“I can definitely believe it. And you’re not dreaming, Barbie Doll.” She assured me. “You are a star, and I think it’s time the world saw
that too.
“Pinch me.” I said casually.
She fucking did
“Ouch, Tally yelped.
“What? You asked me to pinch you.” She shrugged.
“I didn’t think you’d do it that hard.” I scowled at her, rubbing my arm.
“Done” Mia informed us, breaking our playful banter
“Yasss! Party time! Whoop whoop!” Talia cheered, throwing her hands in the air.
6:30 AM
Chapter 23
My phone rang
Thinking it was Lucian finally calling, 1 hurriedly pulled it from my purse and answered without checking the caller ID.
Big mistake.
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