Chapter 16
Sarah's
POV
My business was finally starting to gain some real traction in Madrid. The contacts I made at the mixer, with Wesley's help, were proving to be incredibly valuable. Every day, it seemed like new opportunities were popping up.
I was getting invitations to more events, my ideas were being well-received, and I was even beginning to see some early signs of success. It felt like everything was falling into place.
One afternoon, I was busy working in my office when Wesley walked in. He had that confident smile of his and a file tucked under his arm.
"Hey, Sarah," he said, dropping the file on my desk. "I have something exciting for you."
I looked up, curious. "What's this?"
"It's an opportunity," he said, leaning against my desk. "I've been talking to some folks, and they're interested in a potential collaboration with your company."
I raised my eyebrows. "Really? That sounds promising. What kind of collaboration?"
Wesley's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "It's a chance to expand your reach. They're looking for a partner who's innovative and forward-thinking-someone who can bring fresh ideas to the table." "That sounds perfect," I said, feeling a rush of excitement. "How did you find this opportunity?"
Wesley shrugged, looking modest. "Just doing what I can to support you. I've been keeping an ear out for opportunities that might be a good fit for your business."
I couldn't help but smile. "I appreciate everything you've done. It feels like things are finally moving in the right direction."
Wesley smiled back, his gaze warm. "It's all you, Sarah. You're the one making things happen."
As we discussed the details of the potential collaboration, I was struck by how Wesley seemed to remember every little thing about my business.
He knew the specifics of my plans, the challenges I faced, and even some of my personal preferences.
It was clear he was genuinely interested in helping me succeed.
A few days later, Wesley invited me to another event, this time a private gathering with influential business figures in Madrid.
He picked me up in his car, and as we drove, he mentioned, "You know, I've been hearing a lot of buzz about your company. People are impressed with the direction you're taking."
I felt a swell of pride. "That's great to hear. I've been working hard to get things off the ground."
Wesley nodded. "I can tell. And it's paying off. This event tonight is a chance to make even more connections and get your name out there."
When we arrived at the venue, Wesley once again held the door open for me, a gesture that made me smile.
"Thank you," I said as we walked inside.
"Of course," Wesley replied, his eyes twinkling with a mix of charm and genuine kindness.
Throughout the evening, Wesley was by my side, introducing me to key people and helping me navigate the room.
He was always quick with a compliment or a helpful piece of advice, and it made me feel at ease.
As the night went on, I noticed how Wesley's support had a way of making me feel like I was on top of the world.
His attention to detail, like remembering my favorite drink or knowing when I needed a break, was something I hadn't experienced in a long time.
It was a sharp contrast to my past with Richard.
Richard had always been distant, consumed with his agenda. Wesley, on the other hand, seemed to genuinely care about my success.
By the end of the night, I was exhausted but exhilarated. Wesley drove me home, and as we reached my apartment, he turned to me with a smile. "You did great tonight," he said. "I'm proud of how far you've come."
"Thanks," I replied, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "I couldn't have done it without your help."
Wesley's gaze softened. "It's been a pleasure working with you, Sarah. I'm excited to see where this journey takes you."
As I watched him drive away, I felt a mix of gratitude and hope. Wesley had been an incredible ally, and his support had made a huge difference in my life.
***
I was sitting with Wesley in a cozy corner of the cafe during my break hour, talking about the business and how it was finally getting some real attention. Wesley smiled at me, looking pleased.
"I don't know how to thank you," I said, feeling a wave of gratitude. "None of this would have happened without your help."
"You're the one putting in the work, Sarah," he replied. "I'm just here to support you."
I was about to say something more when a flash on the TV above the counter caught my eye.
My stomach dropped as I saw Richard and Susan on the screen. The headline blared: "Billionaire Richard Engaged to his sweetheart barely two months after divorce!"
My heart stopped. Richard kissed Susan on the screen, and she showed off a massive diamond ring.
My chest tightened, and my hands began to tremble. It felt like the room was spinning.
"Sarah?" Wesley's voice cut through the noise in my head. He reached across the table, grabbing my hands. "Are you fine? Sarah, look at me."
I turned to him, eyes wide, trying to understand if he knew about my past with Richard.
The question was right there, burning on my tongue, but I couldn't ask. I didn't want to know the answer. I couldn't breathe.
"I-" I tried to speak, but nothing came out. I pushed back my chair, standing on shaky legs.
"Sarah, wait!" Wesley called after me, but I had to get out. I had to get away.
I stumbled toward the exit, almost knocking over a chair in my rush.
The cafe door flew open, and I burst outside, gasping for air, feeling like I was drowning.
Wesley was right behind me. "Sarah, talk to me," he pleaded, grabbing my arm gently.
I pulled away from him, my vision blurry with tears. "I... I can't. I just need to be alone," I choked out, my voice breaking.
He watched me, his eyes full of worry, but he let go. "Okay," he said softly. "But I'm here if you need me."
I nodded quickly, unable to say anything more. I turned and ran, not knowing where I was going.
How could he do that to me? He didn't even acknowledge me, how could he get engaged to his whore just two months after our divorce? Who does that?