Anniversary Gala
Ella's POV
I stepped out of the taxi, my children's hands grasped tightly in mine. The bright lights of London's evening reflected off the wet pavement. Aria and Alex chattered excitedly about their first trip to London.
I smiled, nostalgia washing over me. She hadn't set foot in London since leaving years ago. The hospital's anniversary gala tonight would be a test of my resolve.
My mother, Victoria, had invited me, insisting it was time to reconnect. Ella's doubts lingered, but her children's eager faces reassured her.
As they entered the grand hotel, my poise faltered.
The room swarmed with familiar faces, wealthy patrons, influential politicians. And billionaires.
My eyes scanned the crowd, instinctively searching for one face. Eric.
Rumors of his success had reached me.
Had he changed? I asked.
A gentle nudge reminded me of my children's presence.
"Mommy, look!" Aria exclaimed.