Sudden Collapse
Alexa Blackwood's POV
"Are you okay? You look like you're about to have a heart attack," Hazel said, frowning.
I scowled at her comment. "I'm just nervous," I replied, glancing at the front where my father and his business partners were standing.
The orphanage was bustling as it was hosting a foundation day event, courtesy of my father's company, Blackwood Industries.
Blackwood Industries was a conglomerate with interests in technology, finance, and real estate, built on a reputation for innovation, excellence, and ruthless business tactics. As a global player with operations in multiple countries, many were eager to partner with the company.
"Well, you've been doing this for half your life; you're not supposed to be nervous now," Hazel teased. "You should go up front. I think your father is about to give his speech."
Hazel pulled me toward the stage where my father would be speaking. "And stop looking so down. You're beautiful, and you look great in what you're wearing. Smile, okay?" I rolled my eyes but eventually smiled.
"You're so loud," I said.
Hazel smirked. "You know why we're best friends, right? My loudness is part of it."
I chuckled and shook my head. We had become friends despite my stepmother Evelyn's disapproval. Evelyn had raised me with strict rules, one of which was to avoid making friends with people who might be after our wealth.
As my father began his speech, I felt a sense of pride. "Distinguished guests, esteemed members of the orphanage, and dear children, it is my honor to stand before you today to celebrate this special occasion... As a businessman, I have been fortunate enough to achieve success and prosperity. However, I believe that true fulfillment comes not from accumulating wealth, but from making a positive impact on the lives of others."
My father's words resonated with me, and I smiled, feeling proud of him.
"Let us strive to be beacons of hope and kindness, and to make a lasting impact on the world around us." He raised his champagne glass, and we followed suit. "Thank you, and may God bless us all." The room erupted in applause and camera flashes.
As the room erupted in applause, Evelyn smiled and waved, but I ignored her and approached my father. He was talking to some shareholders and board members when he excused himself to hug me. "Congratulations, Dad. I'm so proud of you," I said, making him smile even wider.
Just then, a man whispered something to him, and his expression changed. My uncle Edgar, Hazel's father, approached us, looking worried. "Where's Evelyn?" he asked, his expression changing.
"She's just—"
Before I could finish, my father suddenly clutched his chest and collapsed to the ground. "Dad!" I screamed, rushing to his side.
Hazel and the medical staff rushed over with a stretcher. "What happened?" Hazel asked, concern etched on her face.
"I don't know... He just collapsed... and... I..." I trailed off as the room began to spin around me. I felt like I was going deaf.
"Alexa? Hey... Are you okay? Breathe, Alexa... Alexa?" Hazel's voice echoed in my ears before everything went black.
As I passed out, I saw Evelyn's expression, her eyes fixed on me.
"Alexa!"
