Pretend Perfect

Part 14 - Departures and Arrivals

The next morning, Zoey and Peter made their way to Ella's room, helping her pack her luggage as they prepared to head to the airport. The room was a mess of clothes and bags as Ella zipped her final suitcase with a sigh, mentally preparing herself for the long journey back.

Once everything was packed, they left the room together, their luggage in tow, and headed downstairs toward the reception. While Peter handled the checkout procedures, Zoey and Ella took a seat in the lobby, watching the hustle and bustle of the hotel.

As they sat quietly, Mike Jordan walked through the entrance, his eyes glued to his phone, his assistant following dutifully behind. Zoey's face lit up at the sight of him, and before Ella could say a word, Zoey waved enthusiastically, calling out, "Mr. Jordan!"

Ella jolted slightly and elbowed Zoey, her expression incredulous as if asking, Why would you call him over? But it was too late. Mike had already spotted them. A bright smile spread across his face, and he approached, though his gaze seemed more focused on Ella than anyone else.

"Zoey, Ella," he greeted them warmly, eyes flickering briefly to their luggage. "Looks like you're already on your way out."

"Yeah," Zoey nodded, offering a polite smile. "We have to get back soon and start working on the project. Sorry we couldn't catch up with you yesterday, something... unexpected came up."

Mike waved off the apology with a casual shrug. "It's fine. I've heard about your company's dedication. Even though we're competitors, it's important for emerging companies like yours to thrive. Good luck with the project."

Zoey beamed at his kind words, while Ella remained a bit more reserved, offering a polite nod. "Thanks. Hopefully, we'll see you again at the project submission day."

"Hopefully," Mike agreed, extending his hand. As they exchanged handshakes, Zoey fumbled through her bag and pulled out a business card—Ella's card.

"You can keep this for future contact," she said, passing it over.

Mike's assistant, looking none too pleased with the interaction, took the card and tucked it away with a forced smile. Mike gave them one last nod before heading toward the elevators.

As soon as he was out of earshot, Ella turned to Zoey with an exasperated look. "Why did you do that?" she asked, her tone more confused than angry.

Zoey shot her a playful grin. "Oh, just shut up. Mike's a good guy. You really need to stop keeping yourself away from people."

Ella crossed her arms. "Come on, Zoey, you know how big this project is for us. I don't have time for any of this right now. We'll see about it later."

Peter rejoined them just as the conversation ended, taking charge of the luggage. With everything set, they all made their way to the waiting taxi, loading up their bags and heading to the airport.

As the city skyline faded into the distance, their thoughts shifted back to Springfield, where the real work awaited them. 

Back at the Westover airport, Ella stood with her luggage in hand, bidding a warm goodbye to Zoey and Peter. Zoey gave her a quick hug, her eyes sparkling with their shared excitement for the upcoming project.

"Make sure to get some good rest today," Zoey reminded her, wagging a playful finger. "It's going to be a busy month. I'll see you at the office tomorrow."

"I will, I will," Ella replied with a smile, though the wheels of work were already turning in her mind.

They waved one last time, then headed their separate ways into different taxis. As Ella settled into the backseat, the weight of the journey began to sink in. But even as fatigue tugged at her, the thought of the project kept her mind buzzing. 

Evening at George's Residence

The Lee estate stood like a grand monument to old-world luxury, a sprawling manor whose architecture whispered of a bygone era. The intricate stonework and towering columns made the residence look no less than a palace. Evening had just begun to fall, casting a soft golden glow across the carefully manicured gardens that stretched far and wide around the house.

Margaret Lee, poised and elegant, sat outside on the wide stone terrace, where the gentle evening breeze played with the hem of her shawl. A steaming cup of coffee rested on the table before her, served moments ago by one of the household maids. She smiled faintly, savoring the calm, the soft clink of fine china the only sound around her.

As she reached for her phone, her thoughts drifted to the conversation she'd had earlier with her son, George. He had finally agreed to something she'd long hoped for, and her heart fluttered with anticipation. She scrolled through her contacts until she found the name Caroline, the daughter of her old friend Mr. Smith—a family friend of the Lees for generations. Caroline was someone Margaret had always envisioned as a good match for George.

The phone rang only once before a bright, eager voice answered.

"Hi, Mrs. Lee! How are you?" Caroline greeted with unmistakable excitement.

Margaret smiled warmly at the sound of her voice. "I'm good, dear. And I have some important news to share."

"Oh?" Caroline sounded curious, her excitement barely contained.

Margaret took a brief pause for dramatic effect. "George has accepted to meet you."

There was a brief silence on the other end, followed by a burst of joy. "Are you serious, Mrs. Lee? I can't believe it!"

Margaret chuckled softly, pleased with the reaction. "Yes, dear, it's true. Why don't you come by tonight for dinner? We can make it casual, just the three of us."

"I'd love that! I'll be there for sure. Thank you so much, Mrs. Lee!"

"No need to thank me, Caroline. Just come over tonight and let's enjoy the evening," Margaret said kindly before the call came to an end.

As she disconnected the phone, Margaret leaned back in her chair, feeling a quiet sense of satisfaction. Tonight would be the start of something new. She only hoped George would be open to it.

The maid returned to refill her coffee, and as the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows across the garden, Margaret allowed herself a hopeful smile.