One Last Chance

Ausóme Opening Day

Charlotte's head was spinning as she gave out orders to everyone at the physical shop of Ausóme. She had been here since 7am, making sure everything was perfect for the grand opening.

Not only media would be present, multiple bosses from big brands would also be there. She had shareholders, sponsors, friends, families and fans, possibly even the haters, all looking at her every move.

Her heart had been speeding from adrenaline, it didn't help that she also had a strong coffee to keep her awake from sleepless nights. She was so anxious as she double, triple checked everything on the product and guest lists.

It was now 9:00 am, she had just changed into a beautiful pink dress that matches with her company's identity. After passing the reins to her trusted manager and personal assistant, she hid in her private office.

The room was gratefully sound proof, drowning all the hustle and bustle at the shop, as well as the reporters and fans waiting outside. Charlotte held her head with her hands on the table, trying to regulate her breath.

A gentle knock sounded on the door and before Charlotte could ask for a minute, the door opened itself. She frowned and was about to scold when the uninvited guest entered her office with a large bouquet of flowers covering their face.

The guest moved her head to the side and Charlotte's face lit up. Engfa's face was bright with a dimpled smile as she said happily,

“Congratulations, Char!”

“Fa! You're early!” Charlotte immediately got up from her chair to receive the insanely large bouquet of mixed flowers. There must be at least 20 types of flowers with sunflowers as the main. Her eyes looked at the flowers happily as she knew each of the flowers held their own meaning.

“Of course, bee. I'd come even earlier but Gyo had a little tummy ache. I waited for Han to come before I left.” Engfa smiled as she looked at Charlotte's face, she added softly, “And you know I would have come with you if you let me.”

Charlotte put the flowers on the table before stepping closer to her girlfriend, Engfa naturally wrapped her arms around her waist. Charlotte leaned her forehead against her girlfriend and sighed. Her warmth, her smell, her strong arms, her safe presence…just being close with Engfa calmed her down.

As if sensing her stress, Engfa began stroking her back with one hand. Charlotte finally moved away and replied softly.

“I left the house at 6:30, bee. There's no need for Fa to wake up so early with me. Plus, I know you worked very hard lately to get a free day…”

Engfa cut her off with a kiss on her forehead, it made Charlotte smile widely immediately. Engfa looked into her eyes and said sincerely,  “No matter how busy I am, I will never miss this day. You worked harder than anyone to make this dream come true, I know it and I see it. I'm so proud of you, Charlotte.”

Charlotte's eyes watered, her voice wavered and she asked in a very vulnerable tone. “Fa thinks so?”

The manager cupped her cheeks and continued, making sure Charlotte heard every word. “Fa knows so. You did a very good job with your brand. No matter what, you should be very proud of yourself.”

The younger woman bit her lips and nodded with a little doubt. She slipped, “Some people don't think so. I'm scared that bad things will happen, Fa ah…”

“Who dares to do bad things when I'm here?” Engfa's eyes hardened with protectiveness, her arms pulled Charlotte even closer until their chests were pressed together. Today, she was dressed in an oversized suit with her shirt unbuttoned as usual. Her demeanor was confident and powerful so effortlessly.