Chapter 85: Chapter 85
Amelia's POV
Dad left us forever after three days. He had multiple organ failures and the doctors gave up hope towards the end. It seemed as if we suddenly had become orphans. Mom couldn't face the reality and drowned in depression. In fact, she couldn't recognize any of us the first few days out of shock. It was not possible to leave her on her own, so Leo took mom with him to his house. His twins and wife would keep mom company the whole day and she would recover fast. I returned to London after dad's funeral although my family begged me to stay.
I completed my final year and enrolled in the LCF MBA program receiving a scholarship due to my experience and expertise. I didn't hear much from mom as she was always occupied with Leo's twins who were a handful. I was glad that she had finally settled down at Leo's house. Brandon's wife was pregnant and Caleb had just proposed to his girlfriend. They were planning to tie the knot later. I was happy that they all found their happiness and were settled in their lives.
I on the other hand concentrated on my career with the utmost zeal and determination. Satisfied with the way my career was successfully molding without anyone's help, I worked hard day and night. Money kept pouring in from my designs. I was never short of work. I had my own signature label 'Bridal Blush' which was quite a hit with my friends and customers. I never had time for a boyfriend. After my first kiss with Tristan, I never felt that level of desire for anyone else. It was strange but that was the harsh reality and I had come to terms with it. I had truly loved and lost my love forever. Maybe I was destined to design wedding gowns for all and die as an unwed virgin. Life went on for me and I juggled between my studies, work, and career. However, the only constant in my life was Brittany who still stuck with me through thin and thick.
Two years later:
I completed my MBA and was looking at different commercial properties to open my first showroom to showcase my exclusive collection of bridal wear when I received a phone call from Leo informing me that mom had passed away in her sleep the previous night. It was the final jolt that brought me to my senses.
I packed all my stuff in boxes and had them delivered to New York. I didn't want to stay in London anymore. I felt guilty that I didn't listen to mom the last time and couldn't meet her before she permanently left us. So, with a heavy heart, I packed the rest of my belongings and bade goodbye to London forever. Brittany and I separated on cordial terms with a promise to keep in touch. I would always be indebted to her. She left London too at the same time that I did. It was a dismal day when I set foot in New York. Nothing seemed to have changed much in this overcrowded metropolis. I took shelter at Leo's house for a few days.
The next few days went by in a daze preparing for mom's last rites. Finally, everything was over and I rented a small studio apartment for myself near an exclusive showroom which I found at a very cheap rate. Their offer literally dropped into my lap and I could buy it with my savings. Leo tried to prevent me from leaving his house but I didn't listen. I was an adult and not answerable to anyone now.
A month passed by as I slowly got a grip over myself. Mom's death broke the last link I had with my family. My brothers were busy with their families and I rarely went to visit any of them. Caleb got married a few months back and lived at our parents' house. He never asked me if I needed a roof over my head. I was okay with it. I didn't need anything from them. I was financially independent.
My studio apartment was within a walking distance of the showroom that I bought in the prestigious Garment District of New York. I worked hard to get it ready. My dream was finally shaping up and my first showroom would be ready in a few months to showcase my exclusive collection of wedding dresses.
A Year Later
I was extremely busy with the marketing and setting up of my business. Every happy customer put a smile on my face and a zeal to do even better.
Many times I had the inkling that I was being watched every day, ever since I set foot in New York, but when I didn't find anyone strange anywhere around I gave up the notion. Maybe I was hallucinating. I was satisfied with the way the showroom was gaining popularity. I had been able to carve out a name for myself in this field and I was thankful to God for helping me so far. My days were hectic but I wasn't complaining.
As I helped my sales girls decorate the showroom windows, I saw through the full-length glass windows, a familiar black Jeep Grand Cherokee pull up. I knew that car, but of course, I could be mistaken. There were plenty of such cars in New York. The door opened and an exquisitely beautiful brunette alighted and rushed over to the driver's side. As the window slid down, I gasped at the sight of Tristan, smiling at the brunette, looking sinfully handsome as always. My heart skipped a beat seeing him after so many years. I was right in my guesswork. It was Tristan's car! My heart started beating faster and faster seeing him speak to the beautiful woman. Then he drove off to the parking lot. I prayed in my mind that he wouldn't come inside my showroom. I didn't have the courage to face him but more so I didn't have the courage to see him with another woman!