CALI
I woke up, turning over on the bed, my eyes fixed on the ceiling. Standing up, I checked the time—it was 7:00 a.m.
There was no rush today. He had said his driver would be here by 9:00 a.m. Strangely, that made me even more nervous. The waiting felt heavy, almost like anxiety creeping in.
Gosh.
I dragged my feet to the bathroom and finished my business. Afterward, I picked out a pink crop top and a high-waisted skirt, pairing it with a fluffy pink petite jacket.
I brushed my hair and packed it into a ponytail. Sitting on the edge of my bed, I caught my reflection as I wiped away the tears that slipped freely from my eyes.
I was still lost in thought when I heard the car horn. I already knew his driver had arrived. I grabbed my black purse and slowly made my way to the sitting room.
I took one last glance at the house before stepping outside. I locked the door, entered the car, and the driver drove off.
THOMAS
I woke up unusually happy this morning. I had sent my boys to go get Cali for me—and they had already left.
Well, I couldn't care less.
I puffed out a laugh, grinning to myself as I thought of how I would break her resolve. Just then, the door opened, and one of the men I had sent entered the room.
BRYAN
I couldn't concentrate during the meeting. All I could think about was getting Cali.
Guilt weighed on me for forcing her into this situation. I just hoped Mum would like her—I didn't want to take any chances.
I had been trying to reach the driver, but the line wouldn't connect. I hoped she hadn't tried anything reckless. Still, I knew I would get her.
No. Cali wouldn't do something like that. She was too calm for it—I was sure.
Just as I called again, the driver picked up immediately.
THOMAS
The entire study was in chaos. I didn't know what to do.
How could they say they didn't see her? It wasn't like she didn't know I was looking for her.
Anger surged through me. I swept everything off the nearby table, accidentally knocking my laptop to the floor.
Damn it.
I ran a hand through my hair in frustration, my thoughts dark and restless.
Suddenly, the door swung open and a maid entered, calmly cleaning the mess despite my earlier warnings. She didn't react to my mood and simply continued her work.
Once she was done, my PA entered to inform me that there was a compulsory CEO meeting I had to attend—and that everyone was expected to come with their partner.
BRYAN
"Bryan," the chairman called again, snapping me out of my thoughts. I straightened in my chair and focused on the projector.
"We will have to take the initial position," Mr. Rand said, continuing until the meeting finally ended.
I felt relieved when it was over. I couldn't wait to get home. The driver had already informed me that Cali had arrived at the mansion.
Later, my PA entered again to inform me of a compulsory party scheduled for that night—and that I was expected to attend with my partner.
These people must be joking.
No way. I would attend—with Cali.
Catherine was beaming. Wait—don't tell me she thought I'd attend with her. She had to be dreaming.
"Okay," I replied calmly.
"What about your escort, sir?" she asked.