The Billionaire's Widow

5

Hailey’s POV

Damn it, Hailey—how could you forget what today is? Seriously. Sometimes I surprise myself with how stupid I can be. I called Karen immediately.

"I'm sorry," I began, already cringing.

She giggled softly. "Oh come on, dear, you didn’t do anything wrong. I just hope you’re on your way."

"Yeah, I’m headed out now. Can I bring anything?"

"Actually, yes. We’re short on flowers—my florist didn’t deliver enough."

"I’ll make sure I bring plenty," I assured her.

"Thank you, honey. Alright, I’ll see you when you get here."

"See you soon." I hung up and turned to Paige. "Find me the best florist nearby. I need flowers. And baby gifts—something elegant."

She nodded quickly and pulled out her phone. The elevator doors opened and we stepped out. I sank into one of the chairs in the lobby, glancing at the time. Bobby had one minute left before he was due.

“There’s a five-star rated flower shop just a few minutes away,” Paige reported. “Next to it is a boutique with baby items.”

"Perfect. Make the reservation—we’ll stop there before heading to the party."

Just then, my driver approached. "Mrs. Anders, the car is ready."

"Great." I stood up, Paige trailing behind, still on the phone confirming our stops.

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Paige’s POV

We arrived at the mansion, where Karen Anders greeted us with her usual warmth.

"I’m so glad you made it in time, dear." She pulled Hailey into a gentle hug.

"Thank you for reminding me, Karen." Hailey turned to me. "This is Paige—my assistant."

Karen offered a gracious smile as she faced me. "We spoke on the phone, didn’t we?"

I nodded. "Yes, ma’am. It’s a pleasure to meet you."

"Welcome, dear." She gave my hand a soft shake. "And I must say—you look absolutely lovely. That outfit suits you."

I smiled, a little shyly. "Thank you."

Karen turned back to Hailey. "Did you bring the flowers?"

Hailey nodded. "Yes. Paige, please get them."

"On it." I went to the car and returned with armfuls of floral arrangements, assisted by a few maids.

The place was already buzzing—decorations in place, the air filled with the laughter and excited screams of children. The party had started.

Once everything was settled, I slipped away to find a quiet spot to sit. I couldn’t help but wonder—who throws a baby shower on a Tuesday? Then again, these people had the money and flexibility to throw a party on a Tuesday morning if they felt like it. And it was for Karen’s niece. Rich people didn’t just celebrate—they curated events.

The guests were elegant. Everything about them screamed wealth and influence. Now I understood why Hailey was so insistent about dress codes. You never knew who you might run into—and here I was, practically surrounded by celebrities. Well, maybe not surrounded—I was sitting alone.

"Hi." A voice interrupted my thoughts. I looked up at an unfamiliar man.

"Hi," I replied, cautious but polite.

"I’m Terry." He extended his hand, and I shook it.

"Paige," I said, taking a sip of my drink.

"Mind if I join you?"

I glanced around. Hailey was chatting animatedly with the mother-to-be and a few others.

"Sure," I said.

"I didn’t think men usually came to baby showers."

He laughed. "I’m the father. She didn’t want me away too long."

"Ah, makes sense."

"So… why aren’t you mingling?"

I let out a small laugh. "I’m working. I’m Hailey Anders’ personal assistant."

His brows lifted. "She has an assistant now?"

I gave him a curious look. "You seem surprised."

He chuckled. "Just happy she’s finally stopped trying to carry everything on her own." He stood up. "Nice talking to you, Paige. My wife’s calling."

I followed his gaze to the glowing pregnant woman looking our way. "Nice to meet you too, Terry."

As he walked off, I sighed. "How I wish I could call Amy."

"Who’s Amy?" a little voice asked beside me.

I turned to find a small girl with dirty blonde curls—eerily familiar. Just like Hailey’s hair.

"She’s my sister. And what’s a little cutie like you doing over here?"

She giggled. "I want candy but Mommy said no more. I want more candy."

"Well, maybe you should listen to Mommy. Mommies know best," I teased.

"Grandma said that too. What’s your name?"

I scooted a little closer. "I’m Paige. What’s yours?"

"Camilla."

"Beautiful name. Do you know how old you are?"

"I’m five. Gray is five too."

"Who’s Gray?"

"My brother. Do you have a brother?"

"I do—a little one."

She smiled sweetly. I was still trying to figure out who she belonged to when she suddenly shouted, "Grandma!" and ran to Karen.

Oh… wait. Hailey’s kid. The other twin must be Gray. No wonder I didn’t recognize her—Hailey never posted her kids. Total privacy. Makes sense now.

"My darling, your mom has been looking for you. Where’s your brother?" Karen asked, lifting her gently.

"In the backyard playing with Freddie."

Karen turned to me. "Paige, could you get him for me?"

"Of course, ma’am."

I followed the sound of distant giggles until I found a little boy playing with a dog. "Gray?" I called.

He looked up, a little wary.

"I’m Paige. Your mom is looking for you."

His eyes lit up. "She’s here?" He took off running, disappearing around the corner.

I couldn’t help but laugh. "Well, that was funny."

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