#27 Wedding Invitation

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Simone stepped back slightly, opening the door wider "Sure" she said, her voice still uncertain "Come in" the words felt heavy on her tongue.

As the woman stepped inside, her movements graceful and assured, Simone's eyes followed her for a moment before drifting downward, where she saw Roscoe his big, curious eyes looking up at her as if sensing her unease. Nicole took a moment to survey the penthouse, her gaze sweeping across the open space. As Nicole's eyes roamed the living room, they landed on the easel stand and the canvases leaning against the wall. Some were finished pieces, showcasing Simone's talent, while others were wrapped in kraft paper, ready to be delivered to clients.

"You're an artist" Nicole observed, her tone both admiring and casual she stepped closer to the easel, tilting her head slightly to get a better look at the work in progress.

Simone nodded, still feeling off-balance "Yes, I am" she replied quietly, unsure of what else to say. She watched as Nicole's fingers brushed lightly against the edge of one of the canvases.

"These are impressive" Nicole continued, her eyes still focused on the painting "It's clear you're passionate about what you do" There was a hint of something in her voice-curiosity, perhaps, or maybe something more. Simone couldn't quite put her finger on it.

"Thank you" Simone said, her voice soft but guarded. She wasn't used to strangers, especially ones who claimed to be 'old friends' of Lewis, wandering through her personal space like this. It felt uncomfortable like Nicole was peeling back the layers of her life with every step she took.

Nicole turned to face her, a slight smile playing on her lips "Do you make a lot of money by doing this?" she asked, her tone seemingly innocent, but the question itself felt pointed. Before Simone could respond, Nicole quickly added "Oh! Sorry for asking such an uncomfortable question. I didn't mean to pry"

She blinked, caught off guard by the question "It's okay" she replied, though her voice wavered slightly. Nicole stared at her for a moment and looked down at Simone's growing belly which made her uncomfortable and look away "U-Uh do you want something to drink?" Simone's offered.

"I'm fine, don't worry about it" the woman replied, her tone smooth and confident. Nicole made herself comfortable on the couch, crossing her legs with a graceful ease "I just came here to give this to you" she added casually, reaching into her expensive branded bag.

Nicole laid a card on the center table, it's edges adorned with delicate gold trim that shimmered under the light. The card itself was elegant, made of thick, expensive paper, and tied with a soft, ivory ribbon. Simone hesitated for a moment before sitting on the couch across from Nicole. She reached for the card, untying the ribbon and opening it. The words inside were written in flowing, cursive script, embossed in a deep, rich ink that stood out against the cream-colored background.

NICOLE AND THOM
Join us in celebrating our wedding


"What can you say about Nicole Scherzinger being engaged? Lewis long time girlfriend"

As Simone stared at the elegant wedding invitation, memories suddenly flooded her mind. The question of the paparazzi and the woman with Lewis on the video she just watched a few weeks ago. It wasn't just the name that felt familiar, but the face of the woman sitting across from her. Her eyes widened in realization, and she felt a chill run down her spine. The woman in front of her wasn't just some random stranger or an old friend of Lewis's-she was his ex-girlfriend.

Nicole, sensing the shift in Simone's demeanor, raised an eyebrow "You seem surprised, Simone"

"N-No...Uhh" Simone stammered, closing her eyes briefly as she took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.

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