Silent Secrets ✔

7| It's Been A Long Time

The annual Hastings Enterprises gala was in full swing. The event was a grand affair, held in a luxurious ballroom with glittering chandeliers and elegant decor. The city's elite were out in full force, mingling and networking over cocktails and gourmet hors d'oeuvres. For Stefan, it was a chance to showcase the company's success and celebrate its achievements. For Liv, it was an opportunity to enjoy the night with colleagues and friends, though she couldn't shake the underlying anxiety that had been following her.

She had managed to put on a brave face, donning a sleek, emerald green gown that complemented her eyes and exuded confidence. Stefan had complimented her on her appearance and for a brief moment, she felt a sense of normalcy and calm.

As the evening progressed, Liv mingled with the crowd, exchanging pleasantries and engaging in light conversations. She felt a measure of relief, the festive atmosphere helping to distract her from her recent worries. However, that sense of relief was shattered when she noticed a familiar face across the room—a face she had hoped never to see again.

Jonathan Drake, the CEO of a rival company and a figure from Liv's past—and most probably the person behind the cryptic messages, stood near the bar, chatting with a group of high-profile guests. His sharp features and commanding presence made him stand out, but it was his piercing gaze that unsettled her. He seemed to be scanning the room and when his eyes landed on Liv, a knowing smirk played on his lips.

Liv's heart sank. The last thing she wanted was to draw attention from Jonathan, especially here, among so many influential people. She turned away quickly, trying to focus on a conversation with one of her colleagues. But Jonathan's gaze seemed to follow her and his presence was a constant source of tension.

A few moments later, Liv felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned to see Jonathan standing behind her, his expression inscrutable.

"Liv," he said, his voice smooth and laced with an unsettling familiarity. "It's been a long time."

Liv forced a polite smile, though her anxiety was palpable. "Jonathan. What a surprise."

Jonathan's eyes twinkled with something akin to amusement. "Not entirely a surprise, I'd say. I had a feeling we'd cross paths eventually."

Liv's heart raced. She could feel her composure slipping as she struggled to keep her voice steady.

"Well, I'm sure you're busy with your own guests. I wouldn't want to keep you," she managed to say.

Jonathan's smile widened, but there was something menacing in his gaze. "Oh, I'm not in a hurry. I'm actually quite interested in catching up. You see, I've heard quite a few interesting things about you. Things that suggest you might not be as... unblemished as you'd like everyone to believe."

Liv's breath caught in her throat. The implications of his words were clear and the last thing she wanted was for her past to be dredged up in public. She glanced around, feeling the walls of the room close in on her.

"I'm afraid I don't know what you're talking about," Liv said, her voice trembling slightly.

Jonathan's expression turned more serious. "Oh, I think you do. But let's not make a scene. Perhaps we can have a private chat later?"

Before Liv could respond, Jonathan's gaze was interrupted by the arrival of a group of prominent guests. He gave her a final, enigmatic smile and turned to join the new arrivals. Liv felt a wave of panic wash over her. She couldn't stay here any longer.

In a daze, she made her way towards the exit, her heart pounding as she navigated through the crowd. She needed to escape, to find a place where she could collect her thoughts and regain her composure. She reached the lobby, her breath coming in short, ragged bursts. She glanced around for a quiet place, but her anxiety made it hard to think clearly.

As she pushed open the doors to the outside, she felt a hand on her arm. She turned to see Stefan, his face etched with concern.

"Liv, what's going on?" he demanded, his voice laced with worry. "I saw you leaving and you looked like you were about to have a panic attack. Did something happen?"

Liv's eyes widened and she felt tears of frustration and fear welling up. She had hoped to keep her struggles hidden, but now, in the face of Stefan's concern, she felt overwhelmed. The façade she had maintained so carefully was cracking.

"It's nothing, Stefan," she said, her voice breaking. "I just... I can't handle this right now."

Stefan's expression softened, but he remained firm. "Liv, if something's wrong, you don't have to go through it alone. I care about you and I want to help. Please, tell me what's going on."

Liv took a deep breath, her hands trembling. She knew she couldn't keep it all inside any longer. With a defeated sigh, she led Stefan to a nearby bench, away from the prying eyes of the event.

Once they were seated, Liv looked at Stefan, her eyes filled with a mixture of fear and resignation. "Jonathan Drake. He's... someone from my past. He knows things about me that I'd rather not have anyone else know."

Stefan's gaze was intense but gentle. "What kind of things? Why is he threatening you?"

Liv swallowed hard, trying to find the right words. "I made mistakes a long time ago. He's using that information to manipulate me. I thought I left it all behind, but now it feels like it's catching up with me."

Stefan's expression turned grim, but he reached out and took her hand in his. "Liv, you don't have to face this alone. Whatever it is, we'll deal with it together. I promise."

Liv's heart ached with gratitude and relief. The comfort of Stefan's presence, the sincerity in his words, made her feel both vulnerable and hopeful. She squeezed his hand, feeling a surge of emotion.

"I'm so sorry for keeping this from you," Liv said, her voice trembling. "I didn't want to burden you, especially with everything you have going on."

Stefan shook his head, his eyes filled with determination. "You're not a burden, Liv. You're my friend and I care about you. We'll get through this together."

As the night grew darker, Liv felt a sense of resolve begin to take root. With Stefan by her side, she was no longer facing her fears alone. She knew that confronting her past would be difficult, but the support and strength Stefan offered gave her the courage to face whatever lay ahead.

They stayed outside for a while, talking in hushed tones about her past and the threats Jonathan posed. Stefan listened intently, his mind racing with thoughts of how to protect Liv and help her confront her past. He was determined to be there for her, no matter what challenges they might face.

When they finally returned to the gala, the event was winding down. Liv felt a mix of anxiety and hope as she faced the rest of the evening. She was grateful for Stefan's unwavering support and knew that, with him by her side, she could begin to confront the shadows of her past and find a way to move forward.

--◇◇◇--

Hope you liked it and PLEASE show some love and support to the story.

Take care everyone and stay safe! :)