Hell to Love

Chapter 5

I checked the time. It was 6:45. I had to hurry.

I was looking at myself in the mirror one final time before I leave.

I had worn a dark blue gown with a beautiful net artwork at the bodice. It was a full-length gown which enhanced my curves just perfectly. My brown locks were tied in a neat bun. I avoided wearing any type of accessories. I completed my look with a pair of silver stilettos.

Ok! I am ready.

I took my key card from the vault near the door. I walked out and shut the door behind me and checked whether it was locked properly. I walked towards the elevator.

As I waited for the elevator to come I processed my thoughts. I had decided. I need to have my answers. But before that I have to find out if he remembers me or not.

The elevator arrived and I went in and checked the small notice panel where they list events for the day. I found that the banquet was on the 40th floor i.e. last floor…

I pressed the button and waited for my floor to arrive.

I kept reminding myself not to freak out when I see him.

Thank god! I reached the floor without any stops…I tell you it’s hella annoying to stop at each floor…

I reached for the door that led to the banquet.  I stopped for a moment and took a deep breath to compose myself.

As soon as I stepped my foot inside I realized that it was an open terrace where the banquet was held. The view was spectacular. It was decorated with pink and white flowers. It was beautifully decorated with lanterns hanging from the top shed. The railing of the terrace was covered with white and pink drapes. Small tables were set with flowers and candles on the top.

I realized that there were too many people attending the banquet. Also, that they weren’t ordinary ones. They had their aura shouting RICH… Everyone was dressed at their best with women in gorgeous gowns and men in tuxedos. I felt out of place.

“Ivy,” I heard someone calling my name. I turned around to follow the source.

It was Rachel. She was clinging onto Rihaan just as I had expected. I avoided meeting his gaze.

“Ma’am,” I nodded addressing her.

“I see, you at least wore something good,” she said checking me out. “By the way, you can enjoy your day as I won’t need you for now. But remember we have work tomorrow. So be ready by 10:00 sharp.”

“Yes ma’am”

“Hey kids! Having fun?” We were approached by a man who must be in his mid fifties, accompanied by a blonde, probably his wife. He held a glass of champagne in one hand.

“Yes dad,” Rihaan said.

“And who’s this gorgeous lady we have here?” I was surprised to hear this when I realized he was referring to me. He offered his hand for a hand shake.

“Hello sir, I’m Ivy,” I shook his hand.

“She’s my assistant, dad,” now it was Rachel.

“When did I permit you to call me dad?” was his curt response.

My jaw fell upon hearing this. To say I was shocked to hear this would be an understatement. It meant Mr.Walter didn’t like her. I don’t know why but I felt happy…

“Come on Ben, she’ll soon be our daughter-in-law. You don’t need to be so stubborn,” Mrs. Walter said. Now that hurt. It felt like a knife was being pierced through me.

“By the way Ivy, I forgot to introduce myself. I’m Benjamin Walter and this is my wife Shaina Walter.”

“Hello Mrs.Walter,” I said offering a handshake.

“Hello Ivy, and please call me Shaina,” she said accepting my handshake.

“By the way, we have some other guests to attend. If you’ll excuse us,” Shaina said and they both went to greet other guests leaving me with Rachel and Rihaan/Richard.

“We also have an announcement to make. Why don’t you make yourself comfortable, Ivy?” now it was Rihaan’s turn to speak.

“Ya sure”

They went to the centre of the hall as I awaited the news.

“Excuse me ladies and gentleman. As all of you know, we have gathered here to celebrate and I would like to raise a toast to the cause, that’s our marriage.” Richard said looking at Rachel. “We couldn’t wait to fly back and celebrate, so here we are. We are getting married next month.”