𝐕𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

Chapter 46 : A New Dawn

Scarlett

The first rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, golden glow across the room. I blinked, taking a moment to adjust to the light before turning to the clock on the bedside table. It was early, but the nervous excitement bubbling up inside me had already shaken off any lingering sleep. Today was going to be different.

I stretched, feeling the tension from the past few days melt away as I rose from bed. The morning felt different— a lightness in the air that I hadn’t felt in a long time. Everything that had happened with Vivian, the accusations, the media circus, and the chaos that had torn through my life —it was all behind me now. Today was about a fresh start.

A new chapter.

I made my way to the bathroom, the cool tiles under my feet grounding me as I splashed water on my face. I studied my reflection for a moment, noting the subtle changes — the strength in my eyes, the determination set in my jaw. I wasn’t the same woman who had walked into Blackwood Estate Company for the first time months ago. I had grown, I had fought, and today, I would return to the place that had both challenged and changed me in ways I never could have imagined.

After a quick shower, I stood in front of my wardrobe, carefully selecting my outfit for the day. Today called for something special, something that would remind me of the confident, capable woman I had become. I reached for a cream-colored silk blouse, its soft fabric flowing effortlessly as I pulled it on. The blouse was elegant, its high neckline and delicate lace detailing adding a touch of femininity while maintaining a professional edge.

I paired it with a tailored black pencil skirt that hugged my curves just right, stopping just above the knee, and giving me the perfect blend of sophistication and power. A sleek black belt cinched my waist, accentuating the subtle hourglass shape that the skirt provided. I slipped on a pair of classic black pumps — simple, yet elegant, with just the right amount of height to make me feel poised and confident.

I moved to my vanity, the soft light from the window illuminating my reflection as I applied a light layer of makeup. Today, I opted for a natural look — just enough to highlight my features without overpowering them. A sweep of nude eyeshadow, a flick of eyeliner, and a coat of mascara brought out my eyes, while a soft pink blush added a hint of color to my cheeks. I finished with a subtle nude lipstick, the shade complementing the natural tones of my makeup.

As I carefully brushed out my hair, letting the soft waves fall over my shoulders, I couldn’t help but smile at the woman looking back at me. I felt…ready. Ready to face whatever awaited me at the office, ready to put the past behind me, and ready to embrace this new beginning.

I grabbed my handbag, the leather cool against my palm, and took one last look around the apartment before heading out the door. The elevator ride down to the lobby was quiet, the usual rush of people still hours away. I welcomed the silence, allowing myself a moment to gather my thoughts before stepping into the car waiting for me outside.

As the driver pulled away from the curb, I leaned back against the seat, letting the familiar hum of the city surround me. The streets were beginning to wake up, the early morning light casting long shadows across the pavement. It was a beautiful day, and despite the lingering memories of everything that had happened, I felt a sense of peace.

But as I watched the cityscape pass by, my mind wandered back to where it all began.

Chicago.

I could still remember that morning as clearly as if it were yesterday. The winter chill seeping through the windows, the grey sky that seemed to stretch on forever. I had woken up groggy, the warmth of my bed tempting me to stay under the covers just a little longer. But something had pulled me from my sleep, a feeling I couldn’t quite place.