7
My flight was early. His mother arranged a
car. I answered the driver’s call, but Derek
grabbed my wrist. He was anxious.
“Why are you going to the airport?”
I explained, “Mom asked me to pick someone
up, an important friend.”
His apprehension vanished. In his house, I was
his secretary, assistant, and maid
Г
He warned, “Behave yourself. Don’t act like a poor country girl. Don’t embarrass me…” Seeing my cold expression, he changed the
subject. “I’ll book a place for lunch.”
I refused, “Mom already did.”
He hugged me tightly from behind. “I booked
a new wedding dress. We’ll take wedding photos in a couple of days. I’ve booked a
high–end couture dress for your wedding.”
I fought back nausea. “Okay.”
Then I broke free. He looked surprised.
“I have to pick someone up.”
“I’ll wait for you.”
Minutes later, I went through security. He
raced toward me.
Chapter 2
He seemed to be in love with me again. But it
was too late. Too late for time, too late for
love.
At 8:20 PM, I boarded my flight to England.
Derek Grant became a mere background
noise in my life.
8
Seven years later.
I stepped out of Beijing airport and hailed a
cab to the CBD. After I left, I went back to
school, took the IELTS, got my master’s
degree in Human Resources Management
from a top UK university. I got an internship
at a global FMCG headhunting firm,
recommended by my professor. I worked my
way up, earning the respect of my colleagues.
Now, the chairman appointed me General
Manager of the China region, to establish a
branch office. I’d get equity, and a share of
profits. The shadows of my past had become
a bright prelude. After cutting ties with Derek
and his family, I thrived.
My phone buzzed. It was Ethan.
“Lily, are you on your way? The office is
<
finished. Let’s finalize the furniture. Can’t pick
you up, but you’ll see the finished product. I’ll
be waiting.”
I replied, “Okay.”
Ethan was a renewable energy client I’d
poached in the UK. It took two weeks to get
the deal. Five colleagues had failed. They said
he was impossible. He heard I was returning
to China, and despite our different fields, he
wanted to start a firm with me. He called it an
investment in my earning potential. He started
calling me CEO Lily.
The elevator reached the 19th floor. Ethan
stood waiting, smiling.
“Long time no see, Lily.”
“Welcome to your office.”
Before I could reply, a strong hand grabbed
me, pulling me aside. A familiar voice,
incredulous and familiar,
<
“Lily! It’s really you!”
“You’re finally back!”
Derek Grant.
