Fate || BENNIFER

New York City

Jennifer's P.O.V

The early morning sun bathed the penthouse in a golden glow, casting a warm light and long shadows across the room. My heart fluttered with excitement, for it was the day my new album had finally released. The air was filled with a sense of anticipation as my team worked diligently around me, ensuring that I looked nothing short of stunning for my promotional interviews in New York City.

My stylists carefully selected outfits, each one reflecting my style, while my makeup artist skillfully enhanced my natural features. Amongst all the flurry of activity, Shawn sat nearby.

As my team worked their magic, transforming me into a vision of glamour, my phone buzzed with an incoming video call. A smile tugged at my lips as I read Ben's name. With a quick swipe, I answered the call, eager to see a glimpse of home. The screen flickered to life, revealing his face. And then, there, cradled in his arms, was our four-month-old baby. Which was to be expected, as it was still nighttime on the West Coast. I missed them both dearly.

"Hey, my loves." My voice filled with a mixture of excitement and longing. "How are you doing?"

"We're doing just fine, aren't we?" He said gently bouncing our daughter in his arms. "We miss you." His voice was filled with tenderness. "But we're so proud of you."

"I miss you all so much." A bittersweet smile curved my lips as I replied.

"You've poured your heart and soul into the album. I can't wait to celebrate your success together." He smiled.

As the conversation continued, I couldn't help but steal glances at my reflection in the mirror. My stylists were finishing up, making final adjustments to my hair and outfit, but my focus remained on the video call. For a few moments, the chaos of the room ceased to exist, because despite the physical distance, we were still able to bridge that gap. I soaked in every detail of the scene before reluctantly ending the call, promising to call again later in the day.

My eyes fell upon Shawn. She always wore a smile on her face, but it had been replaced with a serious expression.

"What is it?" My voiced laced with genuine concern.

Without saying a word, she placed the tablet she was holding in my hands. Confused, I looked down, my eyes scanning the screen.

"Jennifer Lopez spotted arriving at Capitol Records flaunting an impressive diamond ring." My heart sank as I read out loud. The headline screamed at me, as if mocking my excitement. "Days before the release of her new album, the singer was seen arriving at Capitol Records sporting a dazzling diamond ring that left onlookers in awe." As I read the words, my smile slowly faded away. "Fans and media alike have been left wondering if this signifies a new chapter in her personal life, or if it's merely a symbol." My heart sank further as I reached the end of the article. "While the singer has yet to comment on the rumors, this unexpected revelation has undoubtedly stolen the spotlight away from her much-anticipated album release."

I finished reading, setting the tablet down with a heavy sigh.

"Hey, take a deep breath." Shawn said. "Let me show you something."

She reached for her phone and quickly pulled up social media. I watched, my heart pounding as she scrolled through various platforms.

"Look, your album's name is trending!" Her voice filled with awe. "And the numbers... they're going through the roof."

My eyes widened as I saw the evidence before me. The album's name was plastered all over social media, with fans eagerly discussing its release, sharing their excitement, and expressing their love for my music.

"See? They're here for you music. The rumors may have caused a stir, but they haven't overshadowed your work." She smiled warmly.

Just then, Benny entered the room. He could sense my unease and approached me with a reassuring presence.

"Hey, I know you've seen the articles." He began. "But remember, today is about your music."

But deep down, the worry still lingered. I had a day full of promotional interviews ahead, and I couldn't help but fear that my rumored engagement would become the focus of those conversations. As if reading my thoughts, he continued.

"I've been in touch with the interviewers." He said. "We've made it clear that today is about the album. While they might ask about the rumors, we'll steer the conversation back to your music."

As the day progressed, I found myself immersed in a whirlwind of interviews. With each conversation, I braced myself for the inevitable questions about my rumored engagement, but I skillfully steered the conversations back to my music, my creative process, and the emotions behind the songs. As I spoke about the inspiration behind the lyrics and the stories I wanted to share, of course I mentioned Ben, but the focus shifted from my personal life to my music.

Throughout the day, I found solace in the support of my team. They ensured that the interviews stayed on track. Meanwhile, my stylists and makeup artist worked tirelessly to make me look radiant. In the midst of the busy day, as I prepared for yet another interview, I made that promised call to Ben. It gave me the strength I needed to keep going.

It had been a day of constant motion, my every move meticulously planned and executed. But now, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the chaos of the day began to fade, leaving me alone in the solitude of my penthouse.

I stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows, my fingertips tracing the cool glass as I admired the breathtaking view of the city below. The night had cast its enchanting spell, transforming the urban landscape into a mesmerizing tapestry of twinkling lights. It was a sight I rarely had the chance to witness, lost in the whirlwind of my busy life.

In that moment, I allowed myself to be still, to breathe in the tranquility that surrounded me. The city's heartbeat echoed through the walls, a symphony of car horns and distant laughter, a reminder that life continued to pulse even in the late hours of the night.

I made my way to the plush, inviting bed, sinking into its soft embrace. As I lay there, my gaze fixated on the panorama outside, I realized how much I had missed these quiet moments of reflection. In the midst of my demanding schedule, I had forgotten to appreciate the simple beauty that surrounded me.

With each passing minute, the city's energy seeped into my bones, filling me with a sense of belonging. I closed my eyes, allowing the sounds to envelope me, the distant hum of traffic blending with the occasional siren. It was a symphony of urban life, a reminder of the world that existed beyond my own bubble, and the life in New York that I had left behind many years before.

My mind wandered, the events of the day fading into the background. I thought about the people I had met, the stories I had shared, and the impact my music had on their lives. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunities I had been given.

In that moment of solitude, I realized the importance of finding balance in my life. The demands of my career were undeniable, which often took me to neglect the most important aspect of all, my family. Time with my loved ones was a precious gift that I couldn't take for granted. I couldn't wait to get home to them.