Trials {Editing}

Chapter 21

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Harper's POV

I checked my appearance in the mirror for the umpteenth time, making sure everything was perfect. I was wearing a black dress that stopped right at my knees, a cream colored cardigan with black lining and pockets, and black mary jane's with a chunky heel. My hair was pulled into a neat low bun, and I had put on peach colored lipstick and used my eyeliner to do a simple cat eye. I made sure there wasn't a single wrinkle in my dress or a single smudge of makeup on my face.

Satisfied with my appearance, I went downstairs to the sitting room, where a book was waiting for me by the fireplace. I smiled while looking at the fireplace, thinking of winter break, which was coming up in about three or four weeks. Everything had been so hectic that I needed this vacation. Besides, maybe Connie and I will start to bond a little with the experience.

Speaking of which, Connie entered the sitting room, looking as pristine and official as ever. Her hair was straight and perfect in her blond bob, and she was wearing a white button-up shirt, a black cardigan, black pencil skirt, and small little black pumps. She oozed officiality and authority, perfection and superiority. I couldn't help but admire her greatly. No matter what, she always seemed to end up on top. Right now, she was at the top of the game for the wine industry. Everyone knew her name, and she was in magazine articles constantly, being praised for her cutthroat way of eliminating competition.

Connie walked around me and examined every inch of me. She reached out and pulled my cardigan shoulders straight, but other than that made no remarks or criticism. When she was finished inspecting, she looked at me and smiled. This time, however, it was a more motherly smile instead of a businesslike one.

"Everything is in order," she commented. "Now, the people coming are the Harrison's. We're finalizing a deal, and to make sure there wasn't any doubt in my successfulness, I invited them over for dinner so they could catch a glimpse of our home."

I smiled and nodded, trying to hide my dread. Because of what happened on that "date" with Cole, I never wanted to see him again, and even more so now that I'm with Noah. Maybe that feeling is gone, I rationalized. Besides, all you need to do is just keep yourself businesslike and official.

"Also," Connie continued. "They're bringing their daughter's boyfriend with him. Mr. Harrison is teaching him the ropes of the business in hopes of having him a part of their workforce as well as their family in the future."

I smiled and nodded. They want Damon as part of the family? I wonder if he's excited about that. Hopefully he's planning on staying committed to Jennifer, or that could end badly.

"So, are you ready?" Connie asked, eyeing me with an emotion I couldn't quite read. I smiled and dipped my head slowly. Connie smiled and stroked my arm, giving it a gentle squeeze, before leaving the room. I used the few seconds to prepare myself, closing my eyes. Be businesslike, don't let yourself use your emotions towards any of them. Be professional in everything, at least until dinner is over and you have to entertain.

I opened my eyes and allowed my practiced smile to flash onto my face just as the door opened. Everyone entered the room, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison talking with Connie and everyone else silent behind her. I looked at each and every one of them, making eye contact. Damon smiled when he saw me, giving me a wink. Jennifer, who was clinging onto Damon's arm, gave me a dazzling smile that radiated her happiness. Cole looked me over with a blank face before nodding his head.

"You all remember my daughter, don't you?" Connie asked. I took my cue and walked forward, my hand outstretched towards Mr. Harrison.

"Oh yes, of course! The lovely Harper, if I'm not mistaken," Mr. Harrison said as he shook my hand firmly.