CHAPTER TWO

1219 Words
In my room Veronica had set up all kinds of outfits, carefully designing them to match me. She was a fashion consultant and was hired by some of the biggest names in entertainment. Men and women. She was truly gifted. Despite the years apart she was still the same gorgeous girl. Long, dark reddish brown waves that framed a noble face. Her complexion glowing from the son and her figure was curvy and tight in all the right places. Her most distinguishing features was the deep honey gold brown eyes of the prestigious Valencia family. Wasting no time she sat me down at the vanity, she had covered it with a black cloth for dramatics. I looked at her and she gave me a cheeky smile before turning my head straight. Quickly she tamed my tangles and curled my thick ebony hair into soft bouncing curls. Satisfied with my hair she moved onto my face. She was gentle and deliberate as she added a touch of makeup to my eyes and lips only, she always used to tell me how beautiful my skin was naturally. Once she was pleased with the hair and makeup she chose an outfit to match me. Something beautiful and charming without showing off too much. She pulled out a deep blue dress that fit my body comfortably, the sides were slightly open and tied in a corset like fashion to add a flirtatious look while still covering my rather voluptuous chest and naturally round bottom. It was cute and felt good on me but it also felt too sexy. It was something Jonathan would never have approved of. I looked at her but she wasn't backing down. After it was on and she paired some choice jewelry with it she pulled the black sheet from the mirror so I could see myself. Looking in the mirror I felt like crying as the broken down housewife I was used to seeing was transformed into a vibrant woman. I looked back at V with tears and she smiled. “You were always beautiful my dear, you just needed a bit of polishing.” Her words warmed my heart. For the first time in a long time I felt ready to enjoy my life. We went out to a classy burlesque club that Veronica’s brother owned. He was known in the city as a very charming and influential person but I hadn't met him much as he's ten years older and often busy. Seeing the club I could understand why as it was packed with high dollar business men and women. The whole building was designed to cater to more elite clientele. Spacious and inviting with warm colors and live music. The burlesque dancers wore elaborate and eye-catching attire as they moved across the main stage. There were small stages as well for private performances. No one removed anything but it was exhilarating to the men and the women enjoyed it equally. Veronica had her own private VIP area, flashing her card with a grin, the security detail was professional and polite as they motioned to her area and a server brought us complimentary champagne before taking our drink order. I watched the dancers and listened to the lively music. It was surreal to be out of my house and enjoying myself after having my heart shattered but here I was, having a great time. I didn't think anything could ruin this moment but I found myself hiding and trying to flee. Veronica hadn't noticed but I would know my husband's ice blue eyes from anywhere. Of all the places in the city to be, why did he have to be here?! I felt like I was going to have a panic attack. Noticing my trembling she looked up and I felt her body tense. She motioned over a worker and they brought her a tray with two simple but elegant black lace masks. She slipped one on herself and handed me the other. I wasn't sure but she was encouraging and I slipped it on, concealing myself. She also whispered to security and two men stood in the way, blocking us while still allowing us to enjoy the atmosphere. I never felt so thankful. We continued the night undisturbed. She ordered some houdevers and some high quality wine, we toasted to freedom and new beginnings. Sharing stories of our youth and she filled me in on her life, it was fascinating and I enjoyed listening to her though a part of me felt jealous. I had dreams and aspirations too but I spent the early years of adulthood supporting Jonathon. Cooking, cleaning, acting like a secretary for the early years and always ready to satiate his needs. I did it all without complaint. Not when he forgot important dates. Not when he would undermine my efforts. Not when he would go days, weeks even, ignoring me. Not even when he left me all alone to deal with my miscarriage did I complain. I simply told myself he was working hard and I shouldn't bother him but in reality he was doing god only knows what else while I suffered like a fool in silence. I tense up remembering the manilla envelope Nadia handed me with those intimate pictures. I turn to Veronica. “Did…did you see the envelope?” V stayed silent a moment, sipping her wine in deep thought before speaking calmly. “Addie. Forget them both. They'll get their karma. Just focus on you for now.” She rested a hand on mine and gave a small smile. I could tell she was still seething, the honey gold of her eyes blazing with fury but she knew it wasn't worth it. I was better off just moving forward. As I began to feel a bit buzzed from the drinks I made my way to the restroom, it was easily noticeable and I made it with ease. After I was finished and tried exiting the bathroom I found myself face to face with Jonathon. He stood there, glowering at me. I prayed he wouldn't recognize me and tried to move away but he gripped my arm tightly. His grip got tighter when I tried to pull away. His voice was cold as ice and dripping with aggressive dominance as he narrowed his gaze on mine. Staring past the mask. “Adeline Michaels. Fancy seeing a weathered old housewife amongst the elite.” I trembled under his intense gaze, my face flushing with embarrassment. Despite dressing up and feeling better about myself for a moment he had a special knack for tearing me down. “L-Let me go Jonathon…” He tightened his grip to the point I felt tears springing forth. I whimpered and he grinned wickedly, enjoying my pain. “You're feeling feisty I see, I suggest you get out of here before you embarrass me further with your presence.” I hung my head feeling ashamed. Tears started to well in my eyes as I thought to leave when a rather tall and handsome stranger suddenly appeared. The stranger’s eyes feel on us, his deep amber eyes focused on Jonathon's hand. Letting out a deep, aggressive growl. His voice was deep and rough as he approached us. “Let her go. Now.”
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