Chapter 3
1210 Words
FIVE YEARS LATER,
Anna's pov
I sat in my office, coffee in hand, tackling the affairs of the day.The creams walls were filled with various sketches and designs. The four walls of this office have hosted me for over three years now,it felt like a second home to me.The walls had witnessed my transformation from a broken, heartbroken girl to a successful business owner.
The fateful day I returned home,I was confronted brutally by everyone for causing a scene at Jack's wedding. I felt like an outsider at that moment, devastated at life. A nerd with no friends,no love prospects and no career opportunities.
I had vowed then to prove them wrong, to show them that I was more than just a jilted lover
So I left New York for a brighter future to Australia but I was wrong,I will be honest and say it wasn't easy being in a foreign country with no one to rely on. And there were days where I just wanted to break down and call Jack for help.
Thankfully,I met Rachel who took me in for a while before I could stand on my own two feet. She became like a sister to me. And after two years of working for smaller brands ,we created the brand Anna Rae together.The styles we created made us a successful brand, and earned us a reputation for pushing the boundaries of what was considered fashionable.
So yes,I wasn't the same old nerdy Anna anymore. My entire personality and appearance were different. I dyed my hair blond, swapped my glasses for contacts and I learned how to apply makeup and do skincare routines.
I am not proud of how I left New York without confronting my past and sometimes i wish i could turn time backwards. But I am happy with my life here and I wouldn't change anything - Not even my daughter.
Yes,you heard me right,my daughter. Unfortunately despite the use of protection. I still got pregnant after my night with Adrian. When I first found out,I hadn't even spent up to three months in Australia. I had considered all my symptoms to being homesickness and adjusting to the climate. It never occurred to me that I could be pregnant but turns out I was wrong.
Once again,thank God for Rachel. She really stood by me during that period. She took hold of most of the affairs in the company and still managed to take good care of me. She is really an angel.
And I fell in love with my daughter,Rosemary when she was born. She had her father's eyes and looking at her reminded me of her father who i hadn't bothered to look for since that day. But I still dream of that passionate night some times
I heard a sharp knock on the door. "Come in," I said.
Lily, one of my staff members, appeared in the doorway. "We're ready for you, ma'am," she announced.
"I'll be there in a short while," I replied .
Lily nodded and disappeared as quickly as she had appeared I took a deep breath, gathered my designs, and headed out the door to join the team.
As I entered the conference room, I was greeted by the familiar faces of my team.
"Good morning, everyone," I said, taking my place at the head of the table. "Let's get started. We have a lot to cover today."
The conference door opens, and Rachel , walks in, "Anna, we need to discuss the marketing strategy for the new collection. We're getting close to launch day."
Rachel and I start discussing some ideas along side our staff.
"Social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, and pop-up shows," Rachel says, "We need to create a buzz that will get everyone talking about Anna Rae."
I nod, my mind racing with ideas. "And what about a collaboration with a celebrity? Someone who fits the essence of our brand."
Rachel face lights up. "That's a good idea ,I will start working on that"
"Wait,Miss Williams, I know you've already declined the invitation to participate in the New York charity event," Lily said, "But I truly believe it could be a fantastic opportunity for us."
"I've already made my decision, Lily," I replied firmly.
Lily still continued. "I understand, ma'am, but think of the exposure this could bring to Anna Rae. We could attract new clients and take our brand to new heights."
I shook my head, my mind made up. "I'm sorry,Lily. My answer is still no."
I wasn't comfortable with returning to New York, even after eight years I didn't think I still I was comfortable with the idea of going back to New York .
Lily turned to Rachel, who had been quietly observing the exchange. "Miss Miller, why aren't you saying anything to convince Ma'am Williams? This event could make a real difference, supporting women's education and empowerment programs."
Rachel shifted uncomfortably in her seat, avoiding eye contact with me. "I...I think Lily has a point, Anna. This event could be a game-changer for us."
"Well, I'm not in favor of this," I said,
I turned to leave, feeling unhappy .Rachel's support of Lily's idea was unexpected, since she knew about my past. I thought she would see things from my view.
"If anyone needs me, I'll be in my office," I said, my tone polite but distant.
With that, I walked out of the room, leaving everyone behind.
--------A little while later--------
Just as I was starting to calm down, there was a knock at the door. "Come in," I said, expecting it to be Lily or one of the other staff members.
But to my surprise, it was Rachel. She closed the door behind her and walked over to my desk.
"Anna, I know you're upset," she said, "But please hear me out. I know this is a lot to ask, but I truly believe this event could be a game-changer for us. And I'm not just talking about the business benefits."
Rachel walked around my desk and perched beside me, her eyes locked onto mine. "Anna, listen. I know what happened with Jack. I know how much he hurt you. But this isn't about him. This is about our brand's future ."
I looked up at Rachel, seeing the sincerity in her eyes. Maybe she really did believe in this opportunity.
Just then, my phone rang loudly, shattering the moment. I widened my eyes as I glanced at the screen.
"Hello?" I answered cautiously.
"Miss Williams, it's principal Thompson from Rosemary's school. I'm afraid we have a situation here. Your daughter,Rosemary,is involved in a fight and we need you to come in as soon as possible."
My eyes met Rachel's, shock and concern etched on my face. "I'll be right there," I said, already standing up.
"Rose was involved in a fight"
Rachel's expression changed from calm to concerned. She knew how much a sweet girl my daughter was.
"Go, Anna. I'll handle everything here, I can wrap things up."
I nodded, gratitude evident on my face. "Thank you, Rachel. "
With that, I left the office. I couldn't shake off the worry that had settled in my stomach, thinking about Rose and what had happened at school.
- Writer
