In the following days, Leo approached Eva cautiously, seeking an opportunity to talk. They met in a quiet coffee shop, a neutral ground where the weight of their shared history hung in the air.
"Eva, I know I don't have the right to ask for your forgiveness," Leo began, his eyes filled with remorse. "But I can't stand by and watch you suffer. I made a terrible mistake, and I want to help you find a way out of this situation."
Eva, surprised to see Leo after all these months, listened intently, a mix of emotions playing on her face.
"I never should have left you on our wedding day," Leo continued. "I know I can't change the past, but I want to help you now. Rosie reached out to me, and she believes you deserve a chance at happiness."
Eva's eyes narrowed, suspicion evident in her gaze. "Why would my mother contact you? What does she want?"
Leo took a deep breath. "Your mother wants to make amends for what happened. She believes, and I agree, that you shouldn't be trapped in a marriage you didn't choose. Eva, you deserve a chance to live life on your terms."
Eva remained silent, processing Leo's words. The wounds from the past were still fresh, but a flicker of hope ignited within her.
"I'm not asking you to forgive me," Leo continued. "I'm asking you to consider your own happiness. There are ways to navigate through this, and I'm here to support you, as a friend."
Leo offered his support and encouragement, emphasizing that she had the strength to make decisions for herself.
In the days that followed, Eva confronted her family, expressing her desire to leave the marriage. The homestead, once divided by conflicting perspectives, now became a battleground of emotions. Eva's brothers and her father vehemently opposed the idea, fearing the impact on the family's reputation.
"You can't do this, Eva!" one of her brothers exclaimed, his face contorted with anger.
Her father, Richard, tried to reason with her. "Think about our family, Eva. What will people say if you leave your husband?"
But Eva, fuelled by a newfound determination and supported by Rosie, stood her ground. "I won't live a life that I didn't choose. I won't let the family's reputation dictate my happiness. It's time for me to make my own decisions, you made me marry him, that was not in my terms I " But before she could finish her defiant declaration, her brother, consumed by a surge of anger and resentment, delivered a tight slap across her face. The sound echoed in the room, and for a moment, the homestead fell silent, the weight of the altercation settling in the air.
"Have you woken up yet, Eva?" he spat, his tone dripping with disdain. "If not, I'll give you another tight slap to remind you where you stand. Even if you were forced, who do you think signed that damn marriage certificate? Did father point a gun at you in the court room? Did he!? Did he ever put a condition on to you,"
Eva, holding her stinging cheek, met her brother's eyes with a mixture of defiance and pain. "I may have been forced into that marriage, but I won't let anyone continue to dictate my life. I won't let fear control me."
Her brother, fueled by anger and a desire to maintain the family's reputation, lunged forward. The confrontation escalated into a physical altercation as Eva's other brothers joined in, each one grappling with their own emotions and convictions. They had no money but their father had worked hard to keep his reputation and they knew it mattered a lot, to him and to them, for goodness sake there were three other girls unmarried. Amidst the chaos, Eva fought to stand her ground, refusing to yield to the physical blows and emotional pressure. The room became a battlefield of conflicting values – tradition clashing with personal autonomy, family ties strained by divergent beliefs.
"You think you can just defy everything and walk away, Eva?" one of her brothers yelled, his frustration palpable. "You're tearing this family apart!"
Eva, her voice strained but resolute, shot back, "This family was torn apart the moment you forced me into a marriage I didn't want. I won't be shackled by your expectations any longer."
The confrontation reached its peak, and as the physical scuffle intensified, Rosie rushed into the room, horrified by the scene unfolding before her. "Stop! Stop this right now!"
The siblings paused, their faces flushed with anger, but the tension lingered in the room like a heavy fog. Rosie, torn between the love for her daughter and the desire to maintain family unity, spoke with a stern yet pleading tone.
"Eva, this is not the way. We need to find a solution that doesn't involve tearing each other apart."
Eva, her spirit unbroken despite the physical and emotional blows, looked at her family with a mixture of defiance and sorrow. "I won't back down. I deserve a chance at happiness, and I won't let anyone stand in my way."
Her brother, still seething with anger, retorted, "Happiness at the cost of our family's reputation? Is that what you want? If not for us at least think about the future of that unborn baby you're carrying "
****The had sun dipped below the horizon, Eva sat with the others watching a movie, she sank into the plush cushions ,the maid introduced an unfamiliar man to the Wills family who had said he had come from the court and was very sorry for dropping in late, but excused his actions claiming he knew Eva, at the sound of his name, she took a deep breath,
"Zara?" she stood up to meet his full height. "Hello, Eva. I am sorry but for today I have come for legal terms. We need to talk about the contract," his voice was calm but carried an unmistakable tone of concern. Tears threatened to break from Eva, everyone in the family suddenly felt the urge to know who he was. He sat on the other side of the house which made their conversation available to the family. Eva felt a knot tighten in her stomach. "Zara, I know I've been out of touch. I've been dealing with some personal stuff, and.. and an.... Where is Leo" she stammered almost breaking down but trying her best not to cry for another man in front of her in laws.
"I understand, Eva, but the contract stipulates specific obligations, and time is running out. Alicia is expecting you to perform, and the dance group is eagerly awaiting your guidance. We need you to step up, fulfil your commitments, and ensure everything is ready in two weeks." He continued totally ignoring her. Eva's mind raced, and she nodded, even though Zara couldn't see her. "I get it. I need to make this right. What do I need to do?" she asked her tone code yet her expression threatening to break out.
Zara sighed, "Firstly, you need to prioritize communication. Alicia has been asking for updates, and the dance group is in the dark. You should contact them immediately, and I'll arrange a meeting between you and them." "Got it," Eva replied, jotting down notes as Zara spoke. "Secondly, you need to prepare two songs for Alicia to lip sync. We can't afford any hiccups in the performance. Work with our music team, and make sure you have polished, performance-ready tracks."
Eva nodded, even though Zara was avoiding eye contact with her. "As for now I don't know if I can make it, can I have another choreographer I can work with." "And finally, the dance routine. The group needs your expertise. Schedule rehearsals, guide them through the routine, and ensure they're synchronized and ready for the performance and about that I think your family can get that arranged" Eva sighed, the gravity of the task settling in. "I need time Zara" she plead.
" The lawyer will follow up with a formal letter outlining the expectations. Remember, time is of the essence. We're counting on you, Eva." He informed her and left, Eva opened her folded letter to find the detailed instructions from Leo and the expected letter from the lawyer. As she read through the legal document, she felt the weight of her responsibilities pressing down on her shoulders.
[Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]**
**Subject: Notice of Non-Performance and Remedial Action**
Dear: Miss Evita Clocks
We trust this correspondence finds you well. This letter serves as an official notice of your non-performance under the terms of the joint contract signed on [Contract Signing Date] between yourself and . "Elevate Arts Academy." As outlined in the contract, you are obligated to provide vocal performances for Ms. Alicia Smith and to instruct and choreograph a dance routine for the accompanying group within the agreed-upon time frame.Upon review of the contractual obligations, it has come to our attention that you have not fulfilled these requirements, and time is of the essence. This correspondence is intended to outline the necessary steps you must take to remedy this situation promptly.
**1. Communication with Ms. Alicia Smith and the Dance Group: The Leeva
You are required to initiate immediate contact with Ms. Alicia Smith to provide updates on the progress of the songs and the dance routine. Additionally, you must communicate with the dance group members and schedule rehearsals to ensure their readiness for the performance.
**2. Song Preparation:**
You are mandated to collaborate with our music team to produce two polished songs for Ms. Alicia Smith to lip sync during the performance. These songs must adhere to the agreed-upon style and tone and must be finalized and approved by the end of the third week of February.
**3. Dance Routine Instruction:**
You are obligated to work closely with the choreographer and the dance group to teach, refine, and synchronize the dance routine. Rehearsals must be scheduled and attended consistently to ensure a flawless performance.
**Timeline:**
We expect all tasks to be completed within two weeks from the date of this letter. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in legal consequences, including but not limited to contract termination and financial penalties.
Please consider this letter as an official notice of your non-performance and an opportunity to rectify the situation promptly. We trust that you understand the seriousness of this matter and are committed to upholding your contractual obligations. Should you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact [Legal Representative's Name], the assigned legal representative handling this matter, at [Legal Representative's Email] or [Legal Representative's Phone Number].
Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Leeroy Smith
CEO
Elevate Arts Academy
As Eva finished reading the letter, the gravity of the situation sank in. She knew that it had nothing to about the agreement and uphold her end of the bargain. It was just Leeroy hoping she would drop out because of what he had done to her, hoping he wouldn't get to meet her until he was finished with what he had left America for.
"Eva, darling, we've heard about this joint contract you've entered into with Leo," Belinda began, her voice a melodic mix of concern and disapproval. Eva took a deep breath, her hands resting protectively over her gently swelling belly. "Yes, we know you had your own life and dreams, and I want to see it through. The contract is binding, and you have a responsibility to fulfil your obligations." Grandfather leaned forward, his expression stern. "But, my dear, you're pregnant. Your well-being and that of the baby should be your top priority. We can't allow you to jeopardize your health."
Eva met their gaze with unwavering determination. "I understand your concerns, and I appreciate your love and care. I've made up my mind. I need to honour my commitments, not just for myself but for the future of our family." Grandmother Constance sighed, her concern etched across her face. "Eva, you're asking a lot of yourself. It's not just about your health; it's about the well-being of the baby. Leo and the others involved must understand the situation.", "I will speak to the doctor of your choice, every week, every day your call and I will take all necessary precautions. I won't compromise the baby's health, but I can't abandon this because that's exactly what Leeroy wants me to do. The contract is legally binding, and I must find a way to fulfil my obligations," Eva explained, her voice steady.
As the discussion continued, it became clear that the grandparents were resolute in their opposition to Eva's involvement in the contract. The atmosphere grew tense, and the room echoed with the weight of unspoken disagreements. A few days later, Eva received a formal letter from Leo's legal team, outlining the concerns regarding her non-performance. The language was assertive but professional, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the potential legal consequences of breaching the contract that was presented to her. Leeroy trying to scare her sending her a new contract. Realizing that they wouldn't be able to change her mind, they rather thought of protecting her by having a space arranged for her where they can have full access to what would be taking place.
The newly redesigned dance studio nestled within the opulent residence of the multibillionaire family was a masterpiece of modern luxury. The expansive room, adorned with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, effortlessly blended the realms of dance and leisure. As you entered, the studio presented itself as a captivating centrepiece visible from the lounge, dining area, and the azure poolside. The glass walls, meticulously treated to allow a clear view from both inside and outside, created a seamless connection between the studio and the surrounding spaces. Soft ambient lighting, strategically placed within the studio, cast a warm glow, transforming the space into a beacon of sophistication.
The dance floor, a pristine expanse of polished wood, beckoned with its mirror-like finish, reflecting the elegant chandeliers that hung from the high ceilings. Wall-length mirrors adorned with ornate gold frames magnified the grace of every movement, creating a sense of infinite space and elegance. In one corner, a state-of-the-art sound system awaited, ready to fill the air with the pulsating beats of contemporary tunes or the classical melodies of a grand ballet. The acoustics of the studio were finely tuned to ensure a harmonious auditory experience, whether one was inside, lounging in the adjacent spaces, or basking by the pool. In this redesigned dance studio, form met function, and luxury met artistry. It was a testament to the family's commitment to creating spaces that seamlessly blended elegance with entertainment, where the beauty of dance was not just a private affair but a shared experience for all to enjoy.
The sun dipped below the skyline, casting hues of amber and pink over the city. The multimillionaire penthouse, perched high above the urban landscape, exuded an air of opulence. Inside, the expansive living room with floor-to-ceiling windows offered breathtaking views of the city lights.
Eva, dressed in a grey men track bottom and a vest, she had had a morning jog while she waited the arrival of her dance group. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the group members arrived one by one, dressed in chic dance attire. The dance room was adorned with mirrors that reflected the shimmering lights from the city below. A polished wooden floor stretched across the room, offering the perfect stage for their performance. The walls were soundproof, ensuring that the rhythm and beats would remain contained within, creating an intimate space for the dance troupe. The dance troupe, a diverse ensemble of talented individuals, entered the room with a blend of excitement and reverence. Their eyes widened as they took in the exquisite surroundings, the luxury of the penthouse juxtaposed against the raw energy of their craft.
Eva, stood at the door once she noticed that everyone was in. "Welcome, everyone. Let's make this performance and let us try to keep it business, if you feel like this is not your time of the month the door is open. Like we used to do, I need to see the last routine we had and I would like James to take the lead," she announced, her eyes sparkling with determination and pride. The group dispersed, warming up their bodies and stretching their limbs. The atmosphere crackled with the energy of preparation. Eva had connected her phone to the Bluetooth, " everyone in position! Ready in 6.5.4.3.2.1.
. The dance floor surged with vitality to the pulsating beats of Daddy Yankee's "Gasolina." James, the appointed leader, signaled a group of girls to join him as they moved in unison to the infectious rhythm. Observing from the front, Eva meticulously noted down each mistake, her critical eyes scanning the dancers. Despite their familiarity with the moves, there was a noticeable lack of energy among the performers. The bass reverberated through the floor as they initiated a collective bounce, attempting to synchronize their bodies with the rhythm. Sensing the energy deficit, Eva took charge, stepping forward to address the dancers.
"You've got the moves, but where's the energy? This routine should be alive with passion! James, don't just signal—lead with conviction! Let the music flow through you!" Eva's voice cut through the beats, her tone demanding a surge of vitality.
As the tempo of the song increased, they seamlessly transitioned into a series of hip-hop moves, but the lackluster energy persisted. Eva, now in the forefront, couldn't hold back her frustration.
"You all learned this months ago! Where's the fire? James, remind them of the Running Man. This routine should sizzle, not fizzle! Get those feet moving, and put some life into it!"
Moving into the heart of the routine, they continued with crossovers and twists, but Eva, dissatisfied, voiced her discontent. "Mix it up, yes, but with energy! Your bodies should be living the music, not just going through the motions. Show me the passion!" As the song intensified, the dancers incorporated isolations and body rolls. Eva, pushing them further, added, "This is 'Gasolina,' not a stroll in the park! Hit those rolls with power, make every move count!" With a smooth transition, they attempted elements of the Dougie, but Eva, unimpressed, interjected, "You know this! Where's the energy I taught you? Bring it! Make me believe in every step you take."
Eva's direct and harsh feedback aimed to inject the much-needed energy into the routine, pushing the dancers to channel the vibrant spirit of the music and deliver a performance that truly resonated with the dynamic beats of "Gasolina.", she replayed the song and informed them that she would let them rest only if she thinks that they deserve to, with that she retired to her room where she took a bath and grabbed one of he fleeces and walked out to the back yard where she laid herself in the lawn. She was resting, before she knew it she had fallen asleep.
As Eva woke up, she found herself lying on the lawn with the warmth of the sun gently kissing her face. She kept her eyes closed, relishing the peacefulness of the moment. Soon, she became aware of a tender touch on her belly. It was a touch she recognized, one that spoke of familiarity and a shared history. His hand, the father of her child, rested there as if in silent acknowledgment of the life growing within. In that delicate moment, a mix of emotions washed over Eva. Despite the complexities of their relationship and the fact that he didn't harbor romantic feelings for her, the touch on her belly carried a weight of shared responsibility. It was a connection to the life they had created together. Eva felt a bittersweet blend of vulnerability and intimacy. She knew that, in this instance, they were bound by a shared journey into parenthood.
While he loved his wife Susan, and her loving Leo, in this fleeting moment, there was a temporary bridge between them. Eva couldn't deny the depth of the connection formed by the impending arrival of their child. The touch on her belly symbolized a shared commitment to the life growing within her, a life that would intertwine their stories in ways they couldn't fully anticipate. Yet, beneath the surface, there lingered a sense of melancholy. The realization that this connection was momentary, that it didn't extend beyond the realm of parenthood, cast a shadow over the tenderness of the gesture. Eva kept her eyes closed, allowing herself to absorb the warmth of the sun and the touch on her belly, cherishing this unique and fleeting intersection of their lives, allowing him to have this moment with his child for the first time, without him feeling awkward.
Eva felt a gentle flutter, a sensation unfamiliar yet unmistakable—the first movement of their child. It was a moment she had been eagerly anticipating, a magical connection that transcended the complexities of their relationships. Slowly, she opened her eyes, meeting his gaze with a tender acknowledgment of the shared miracle happening within her. Their eyes locked, and in that silent exchange, an unspoken understanding passed between them. Eva's child had made its presence known, a tiny affirmation of life that softened the edges of their tangled emotions. For that brief instant, it didn't matter that he loved Susan or that Eva had her own complicated feelings. Their child's first movement was a bridge that momentarily brought them together in awe and wonder.
As Eva met his eyes, she saw a mixture of surprise and undeniable emotion reflected in his gaze. The weight of their shared responsibility, the reality of impending parenthood, hung in the air. In this moment, the boundaries of their individual lives blurred, and they were united by the undeniable truth that they were about to become parents. Feeling a subtle withdrawal as he attempted to pull his hand away, Eva placed his hand back on her belly, kept her eyes closed, allowing him to feel the movements beneath his touch. It was a deliberate act to grant him this intimate connection with their child, a moment untainted by awkwardness or restraint. Eva had already fell asleep by the time he left.
In the days that followed, life at Eva's house flowed sweetly. The dance group continued their rehearsals, and laughter echoed through the halls. Eva, however, found solace in the peaceful moments, the quiet interludes between the vibrant days. Eva decided to retreat to the backyard for some fresh air. The dance group, dismissed for the day, left her in the tranquility of her thoughts. The chilliness outside nudged her awake in the late hours, prompting her to return indoors.
Days melted away in this serene rhythm, until the approaching deadline loomed. Just four days remained before the collaboration with the man who had once left her at the wedding altar, a chapter of her life that still cast shadows on her heart. On the appointed day, Eva found herself seated across from him, only connected through a call, the man who had once held her heart in his hands. The room was laden with tension, an unspoken history hanging between them. As they began discussing the collaboration, the air became heavy with the weight of unresolved emotions.
Jayden's little sister rushed to the Studio door and pressed the button that lay there, it was a control of the sound proof that was installed, pressing it made everyone in the house hear every sound that was in the studio. Jayden was busy on his files, he quickly raised his head looking at his little sister, before he could say anything she sat beside him," she is on the line with her ex fiancé, they both sing she sings for her ex's sister to lip sing and she is singing two songs let's hear her voice, she must be an armature why don't we know that Alicia?" she said mockingly, breaking the news to the family. Not just her, everyone wanted to know what was going on, they looked through to the studio where she sat facing their direction any expression of hers revelled to them.
Eva looked closed her eyes and spoke with a mixture of vulnerability and strength. "I never understood why you left," she admitted, her voice carrying the echoes of past pain. "That day, at the altar, my world shattered. Can you help me understand, now, after all this time?, couldn't you tell me you weren't ready?" The room held its breath as they delved into a conversation that transcended collaboration, diving into the uncharted waters of their shared history. It was a moment of catharsis, a chance to heal old wounds and find closure amidst the lingering echoes of the past. He hesitated for a moment. The weight of his own regret mirrored in his voice.
"Eva, it's been months but it feels like years, and I've carried the weight of that decision with me every day," he began, his voice tinged with remorse. "As much as I want to give you a clear answer, the truth is, I was lost," he confessed, his voice trembling. "I thought I was doing the right thing by leaving, I thought you would be happy that I got this contract. But I see now that I only added to the pain and that I choose the wrong at the wrong time, my ticket had been booked and you know we don't have money to buy another one". Eva listened, her heart pulsating with a mix of emotions. Anguish, curiosity, and a glimmer of hope danced in her eyes. "You could have at least talked to me, explained," she said softly, her vulnerability laid bare.
"she isn't angry he left her at their weeding, broe be careful.." she whispered
"I know, and I regret that more than anything," he admitted, "I was selfish, and I hurt you in the process, but I understand if forgiveness is too much to ask." Eva spoke, her voice a gentle breeze in the emotional storm. "I don't know if I can forgive, but I want to understand. Help me understand your pain, your reasons, and maybe, just maybe, we can find closure."
As Eva adorned the headphones, the room hushed in anticipation, and the ethereal beats of "Tattoo" by Dima Bilan began to pulse through the mansion. The lyrics, a poignant declaration of love, were spread before her like a lyrical journey waiting to unfold.
I don't wanna go
But baby, we both know
This is not our time
It's time to say goodbye
Until we meet again
'Cause this is not the end
It will come a day
When we will find our way
With each verse, Eva's expressions mirrored the ebb and flow of the lyrics. The heartfelt words resonated deep within her, and the emotional landscape painted on her face told a story of love, longing, and determination.
Violins playin' and the angels cryin'
When the stars align, then I'll be there
No, I don't care about them all
'Cause all I want is to be loved
And all I care about is you
You're stuck on me like a tattoo
The song became a vessel for her emotions, a cathartic release expressed through each note.
No, I don't care about the pain
I'll walk through fire and through rain
Just to get closer to you
You're stuck on me like a tattoo
I'm letting my hair down
I'm takin' it cool
You got my heart in your hand
Don't lose it, my friend
It's all that I got
Yet, beneath the powerful beats, a vulnerability lingered in Eva's eyes. The lyrics spoke of a profound connection, and as she sang, it was evident that every word etched a personal story on her heart.
No, I don't care about the pain
I'll walk through fire and through rain
Just to get closer to you
You're stuck on me like a tattoo
All I care about is love
Oh, oh, oh
All I care about is love
You're stuck on me like a tattoo
'''The music echoed, and Eva's rendition carried the emotions embedded in the lyrics, making the mansion resonate with the heartfelt melody, as soon as she finished they inserted a new track for her,