Sophie's Life

Chapter 49: The Reunion

**Sophie's POV**  

The shimmering glass doors of the grand hotel stood before me like a challenge I wasn't sure I was ready to face. Abby had talked me into coming to this College reunion, claiming it would be a fun, light-hearted way to reconnect with old friends. What she failed to mention—or maybe conveniently forgot—was how much history I was walking into.  

I hadn't wanted to see Daniel. Our past was a tangled mess of almosts and maybes, of words left unsaid and moments that lingered far too long. But Abby assured me he wouldn't be here. He was "too busy running his company," and I'd been naive enough to believe her.  

The lobby buzzed with excitement as I entered. It was stunning—high ceilings, modern chandeliers, and an atmosphere that screamed opulence. Typical for a place Daniel's family might be involved in. I tried to push the thought away. Abby greeted me at the entrance, her face lighting up as she pulled me into a hug.  

"You made it!" she beamed.  

"Barely," I muttered. "I still think this was a bad idea."  

"You'll survive. Besides, it's not about the past—it's about celebrating where we all are now. Trust me, you'll be fine."  

Her reassurance didn't exactly help, but before I could argue, someone called her name, and she disappeared into the crowd.  

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**Alan's POV**  

"Jules, stop fussing over my tie," I grumbled as she adjusted it for the third time.  

"You're a billionaire now, Alan. You have to look the part," she teased, her signature smirk softening her words.  

The reunion was her idea as much as Abby's. Despite everything, Jules had a knack for bringing people together. And honestly, it was nice seeing everyone again, even if the past still lingered in the room like an uninvited guest.  

I spotted Sophie the moment she walked in, her elegance impossible to ignore. She looked hesitant, like she wanted to be anywhere but here. I caught Jules's eye, and she nodded, as if to say, *Keep an eye on her.*  

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**Sophie's POV**  

The evening passed in a blur of polite smiles and small talk. Ayla was as glamorous as ever, dressed to kill and basking in the attention of the crowd. Adam had somehow gotten even more charming over the years, his modeling career clearly suiting him. James was there too, looking every bit the hotel magnate he'd become, though his arm was notably absent of the supermodel he was allegedly dating.  

Then there was Mia, effortlessly commanding the room as she balanced her roles as a fashion influencer and businesswoman. And Alan and Jules? They were the golden couple of the night—unexpected, yes, but they fit together in a way that made you wonder why it took so long.