Chapter 2

Her mother was flipping through a stack of mail, and as Evie approached, she handed her the invitation. The gala invitation before her, an ornate card that seemed to mock her reality.

Sighing, she set the invitation aside and stared blankly at the card, the weight of her responsibilities on her mind.

'It came in earlier today and Mrs. Thompson said you have been nominated as the school's representative.'

"The charity gala at Westlake Academy. You should really consider going."

'What!! Why me?'

Evie hesitated, her stomach twisting at the thought of stepping into a world of opulence and glamour that felt so foreign.

"I don't know, Mom. It's not really my scene."

"Evie, it's for a good cause. And it's an opportunity to connect with some amazing people," her mother urged, growing more excited.

"Yeah, amazing people who live in a different world," Evie replied, her frustration bubbling to the surface.

"I can't just pretend everything is fine."

"Why is it so hard for you to think of something besides your father's illness?" Stefanie asked, exasperated.

"You deserve a break too."

Evie felt guilt wash over her. She longed for a break, but the thought of enjoying herself while her father struggled felt wrong. "I just... I can't leave him right now."

Stefanie's expression softened. "I understand that, but he would want you to do this. It's okay to have a life outside of caring for him."

As she gazed at the invitation, Evie felt a flicker of yearning. The gala represented everything she wanted: connections, love, a life filled with possibilities. Yet, it also felt like an escape from the reality that weighed so heavily on her heart.

"Okay, I'll think about it," she finally said, though doubt lingered in her mind.

..

Evelyn stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the collar of her modest dress. The soft fabric clung gently to her figure, and she couldn't help but feel a flutter of anxiety mixed with excitement. Tonight was the charity gala, an event she had reluctantly agreed to attend after being nominated as the school's representative.

"Why did I let them talk me into this?"

She muttered to herself, brushing a stray hair behind her ear. The bright lights of the vanity highlighted the faint shadows under her eyes, remnants of sleepless nights spent worrying about her father's health. Every tick of the clock echoed in her mind, a reminder of the time slipping away.

A knock on the door startled her.

"Evie, are you ready?"

Her mother's voice was cheerful, a stark contrast to Evie's apprehension.

"I'm coming!" she replied, forcing a smile. As she stepped out, her mother beamed at her.

"You look lovely, sweetheart! Just remember, it's for a good cause."

Evie nodded, though her heart felt heavy. "I know, Mom. It's just... I wish I didn't have to go alone."

"I'll come with you, okay"

Her mother's expression softened. "You know we're all proud of you. Just be yourself, and you'll do great."

As she arrived at the gala, the atmosphere buzzed with laughter and chatter. The grand hall was adorned with extravagant decorations, glimmering chandeliers casting a warm glow over the elegantly dressed crowd. Evie felt dwarfed by the opulence surrounding her.

"Look, there's Allen Fitzgerald!" one of her friends from a neighboring school exclaimed, pointing towards a group of people gathered around a tall, striking young man.

Evie's breath hitched as she caught her first glimpse of Allen. He commanded attention effortlessly, his dark hair perfectly styled, and his deep blue suit tailored to perfection. He exuded an air of confidence that was both intimidating and alluring.

The way he spoke, animated yet composed, drew her in, and she found herself staring.

Her mother nudged her.

"Go say hello! He's a philanthropist; I'm sure he'd love to meet you."

Evie hesitated, her heart racing. "I don't know, Mom… What would I even say?"

"You're a teacher, and he's passionate about education. Just be genuine." With a gentle push, her mother encouraged her forward.

"Okay, here goes nothing," Evie murmured, taking a deep breath before approaching the group. As she got closer, she overheard snippets of conversation.

"...and we're working on a new initiative for underprivileged schools," Allen said, his voice rich and captivating.

"Excuse me," Evie interjected, her heart pounding. "I couldn't help but overhear. I'm Evelyn Jameson from Westlake Academy. It's wonderful to see someone so dedicated to education."

Allen turned, his piercing blue eyes locking onto hers, and a smile spread across his face. "Evelyn, it's a pleasure. I've heard great things about your work."

The warmth in his gaze made her stomach flutter.

"Thank you. It's my passion, really."

He leaned in slightly, intrigued. "What drives you?"

Evie hesitated, feeling exposed. "I believe every child deserves a chance to succeed, especially those who face challenges at home."

"Beautifully said," he replied, his tone sincere. "We need more people like you in this world."

As they spoke, Evie felt a connection forming, a spark she had longed for but never found. Their conversation flowed effortlessly, covering a wide range of topics including her father's health condition, laughter punctuating their words like music. For the first time in a long while, she felt seen.

So, what do you do when you're not saving the world from poorly educated children?" he teased.

"I wish I could say I save the world," she said, her smile fading slightly. "But mostly, I take care of my dad. He's sick."

Allen's expression shifted to one of concern. "I'm sorry to hear that. If you don't mind me asking, what's wrong?"

"Leukemia. The doctors say he has about a year left," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I know how hard that can be," he said, his eyes softening.

"What about you? What do you do?" she asked, eager to change the subject.

"I run a company," he said, waving a hand dismissively. "Nothing as noble as teaching, I assure you."

"Is that so? What company?" she asked, intrigued.

"Fitzgerald Global Industries," he replied, watching her closely.

"Wow, that's impressive! So you're a billionaire?" she joked, raising an eyebrow.

He smirked. "You could say that. But being a billionaire doesn't mean you're happy."

Evie nodded, contemplating his words. "True. Happiness is more than money."

"Exactly," he said, his gaze piercing into hers.

"What if I told you I could help you with your dad's medical expenses? In exchange for your companionship for a year."

"Companionship?" she echoed, surprised.

"Yes. It would involve attending events, fulfilling certain duties. You'd be well compensated," he explained, his tone earnest.

"But why would you want that?" she asked, confused.

"Because I need someone genuine in my life. Someone who isn't after my money or my status," he replied, sincerity lacing his words.

Evie hesitated. "That's a big commitment."

"I know," he said, stepping closer. "But I can help you, and in return, you'd be helping me."

"How much?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

He named a figure that made her heart race. "That's enough to cover all your father's treatments."

Her mind raced as she weighed the options. "I... I need to think."

"Of course. Take your time," he said, backing away slightly but still watching her intently.

As the night wore on, Evie found herself lost in thought. The gala faded into the background as she replayed their conversation. The stakes were high, but so was her desperation. .