Reunion

Berlin suddenly remembered in her previous lifetime, she went to the same reunion and she was dragged out.

Clad in a beautiful dress as they were, Berlin was supposed to be treated the same. But it ended with her losing a lot more than herself.

Berlin let out a mocking laugh as she cursed inwardly. Those memories would not bring her any good.

"Oh, don't feel sad, Tasha. My arm would have healed before then or better still, I am happy I will be free from their clutches and schemes."

"Whoever told you, you were free, Berlin?" Tasha asked her. "Do you think that the selfish step-sister of yours would ever let you go free? She would look for more despicable ways to make your life miserable even if you don't attend. Which is why I believe this is your chance to up your game at the party."

Tasha had always been like this. The loyal friend, watching and protecting her but it was all a facade and a good one at that. Berlin needed to be free and free from all of her deceits and live life on her own.

She was not afraid of what her adopted mother and sister will do to her. She was ready for them. She would no longer sit idly by and watch as they humiliate and make a mess of her life.

"No need to worry your pretty head, Tasha."

"Ah! Bell, I still think it is time that you show them their rightful place. I mean, look at you now, married to a Wayne. Those scum will definitely be intimidated by you. If you want I could ask the organizer to reschedule and you could accompany your darling husband arm in hand. As it should be. Let's face- slap the world with money Hmph!"

Berlin let out a chuckle at the sight of her best friend's dramatic guestures. "Ah Tasha, You really should stop being a secretary and start a career in acting instead. I think it would suit you better."

Tasha pursed her lips before rolling her eyes at her friend. "You are trying to change the subject here! And if you don't want to go, It will be an honor to go in your place and accompany Karlos, protecting your hubby for you. Let's see if they will dare underestimate you once they see who represents you."

The so called worried Tasha became enthusiastic at the thought of going out in public with Karlos and spending time with him. "Hey, Berlin. Do not say no to me. Think of this as me assisting you if this don't work out with your arm healing on time. Then you can compensate me by telling me all the exciting things that go on between you two. And on top of that, tell me when you want me to come over and do a sleepover with you. I'm always at your service to care for you my dear." Tasha knew her friend might say no to this but there was no harm in testing the waters.

"Oh wow! It has been ages and what a lovely idea, but I would be fine. I would let you know when and if I need your help." Berlin did her best to put up her appreciative smile. It was really exhausting putting up acts.

Seeing Berlin turn silent after speaking, Tasha did not continue to voice out her opinion anymore. Berlin usually laughed at those kind of comments and agree to them nonchalantly. 'What changed?'

"You're lucky I decided to visit you today. No one else would tolerate your silly tantrums like I do.." she heard Tasha mutter, "haha...hahaha" Tasha burst into an uproar of laughter.

After a minute, her laughter died down. "Expect more doting from me."

"Thank you, Tasha," Berlin said before smiling again at her.

By the time they were done chatting, Tasha waited for a while to see him before she took her leave but he didn't show up.

"Alright, it's getting late I will be heading home. You know how my Mom can be sometimes."

" Send her my regards." Berlin requested.

"Definitely."

Berlin watched as her friend walked out of her room before the smile on her face disappeared. She furrowed her brows while clutching her head, let out a long sigh. Her face slowly turned pensive.

She then thought about the events that transpired on that day.

A single tear made it's way down her cheeks.

***

The days passed.

Berlin took her medicine, changed her bandages, ate her meals, and focused on recovering. Once she was discharged, she collected her belongings. All charges had been dropped, and Mr. Fred Gaffer was released. Jason Vicks had visited a few times.

But Karlos?

Up till that day, Berlin and Karlos barely saw each other as he no longer showed up

He was cooked up with work and travels and she was choked up with her mother-in-law, sister-in-law, who seemed to be keeping her company a lot. And the daily visit from the doctor. Tasha had gone with Karlos on his business trips.

Not surprised, will be an understatement.

As her arm healed, Berlin focused on her own plans. She knew how things would turn out, so she decided to buy shares, play the lottery, and start a hidden business. Winning was inevitable. As for divorcing Karlos? That would have to wait.

By Thursday, she had placed her bets and researched companies selling their shares.

Ring!

She was about taking a nap when her phone rang. She left it on the working table. Berlin hurriedly made her way back to the table to answer the call.

'Karlos! Speak of the devil. Why was he calling now?' she chuckled at her thought and answered the call.

"Hello"

Hearing his voice after many weeks was like she was breathing a refreshing air after being locked in a dusty room.

Subconsciously, she took in a deep breath and exhaled sharply before replying him.

"Hi." She replied. "Your Mom and sister are fine."

"I know. Anyways that was not why I called."

"Really? Why did you call?"

"To check up on you...And to ask if you would be able to go with me for my high school reunion?"

"To check on you," he said flatly. "And to ask if you'll come with me to my high school reunion."

Berlin froze.

The reunion.

She had almost forgotten about it.

'Did Mrs. Lydia put him up to this?'

"Umm... I..." She was about to decline when he cut her off.

"Don't worry about anything. It's just a formal gathering, and I don't want my mom thinking I'm neglecting you."

Berlin's heart sank.

So she was right. He wasn't asking because he wanted to.

"You don't have to worry about what to wear," he added quickly. "I'll send your outfit this evening and pick you up at 9:30 p.m."

Berlin hesitated. "…Okay."

"Take care."

Beep.

The call ended.

Berlin let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding.

She had to be careful. If she wasn't, this night could end like the last time. And she wasn't about to let that happen.