4.

Cecily leaned back in her chair, cradling her latte in one hand, the other lightly drumming on the table. Her hazel eyes were locked on me, sharp and calculating as if she were reading every thought racing through my mind.

“Vera,” she began, her voice calm but firm, “you can’t let them think you’re rattled by this.”

I fidgeted with the strap of my bag, avoiding her gaze. “I’m not rattled,” I said, though my shaky voice betrayed me.

She raised an unimpressed eyebrow. “Really? Because the way you’ve been picking at that strap says otherwise. Let’s not pretend here—we both know how Evelyn operates. If she so much as sniffs out that this bothers you, she’ll use it against you. Do you really want her spinning some story about you sulking over her engagement?”

Her words made my stomach churn. Evelyn had always been one to twist situations to her advantage. She was cunning and knew how to manipulate a narrative until she came out looking like the angel. I had no doubt she would do the same with this.

“But what am I supposed to do?” I asked, throwing my hands up in exasperation. “They want me to design her necklace. Her, Cecily! How am I supposed to act like that’s okay?”

“You don’t have to be okay with it,” she said, softening her tone slightly. “But you do have to make it seem like it doesn’t bother you. If you act distant or refuse, they’ll just think you’re being bitter. And let’s not forget—neither Evelyn nor Daniel knows about your… history with him. To them, you’ll just look like you have some weird bad air about their relationship.”

I sighed, leaning forward to rest my head in my hands. She wasn’t wrong. If I didn’t handle this the right way, Evelyn would turn it into something bigger, and I’d be painted as the jealous, immature sister.

Cecily leaned in closer, her voice dropping as if sharing a secret. “Here’s what you need to do. Reply to the email. Set up a meeting for tomorrow morning. Walk into that office like the CEO you are and show them that nothing they do affects you. Act professional. Be confident. Let them see that you’re above all of this.”

The thought of sitting across from Evelyn and Daniel made my chest tighten with anxiety, but Cecily’s confidence in me was reassuring.

“Alright,” I said slowly, nodding as I let her words sink in. “I’ll do it. I’ll reply to the email and set the meeting.”

A triumphant grin spread across Cecily’s face. “That’s my girl. And don’t worry—I’m coming with you. Evelyn might think she’s smart, but she won’t try anything with me around.”

I chuckled despite the knot in my stomach. “Thanks, Cec. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“You’d manage,” she said with a playful wink, “but it wouldn’t be nearly as fun.”

The Email

Later that evening, I sat at my desk, staring at the email draft on my laptop. My fingers hovered over the keyboard, hesitating as I reread the words over and over again.

Dear Mr. Evans,

Thank you for reaching out. I’d be happy to discuss the custom necklace design for Ms. Evelyn Emerson. Please let me know if tomorrow morning works for you and Mr. Hart. I’ll arrange for the meeting at my office.

Best regards,

Vera Stones

The words were professional and detached, exactly the tone I needed to set. I didn’t want to leave any room for doubt or misinterpretation. After taking a deep breath, I hit send.

I barely had time to lean back in my chair before the reply came through.

Dear Ms. Stones,

Thank you for your prompt response. Tomorrow morning at 10 AM works perfectly. Mr. Hart and Ms. Emerson will be there.

Best regards,

Samuel Evans

I stared at the screen for a moment, letting the reality of the situation sink in. Tomorrow morning, I’d be sitting face-to-face with Evelyn and Daniel. The idea made my chest feel tight, but Cecily’s words echoed in my mind: You’re in control here.

Closing the laptop, I exhaled slowly and leaned back in my chair. It wasn’t going to be easy, but I knew what I had to do.

The next morning, I woke up early. I needed the extra time to clear my head and prepare myself for the day ahead. My usual workout routine helped burn off some of the restless energy, and by the time I stood on the balcony of my penthouse, gazing at the city below, I felt a little more grounded.

After a long shower, I stood in front of my wardrobe, carefully selecting my outfit. I wanted something that exuded confidence and professionalism but also made a statement. After some deliberation, I settled on a tailored black jumpsuit with gold accents. It was sleek, powerful, and exactly the look I needed.

Cecily arrived at my penthouse right on time, dressed impeccably in a navy blazer and matching trousers. She greeted me with her usual easy confidence, handing me a coffee.

“Ready?” she asked, her tone light but supportive.

I nodded, gripping the cup tightly. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”

The ride to my office was quiet, the tension in the air palpable. Cecily didn’t say much, but her presence was enough to keep me grounded.

When we arrived, she gave my arm a reassuring squeeze before we stepped into the building.

This was it. Time to show them exactly who I was.