Written In The Stars - First Draft (Published Under Immac PPH)

CHAPTER 28

Written In The Stars

Valerie's POV

"Are you sure about this? I can go to the trip for you."

While packing my luggage for the business trip, Sabrina went home early so she could spend a little time with me. I looked at her, she had hesitation in her eyes, I was also skeptic about this but I know I have to because this is for the company, after all. Maybe I shouldn't treat things personally, I made it clear to myself that this trip is a business trip, it's all for work and nothing about the past and our personal issues will be involved. Although I still feel skeptic about it, I have no other choice.

I shook my head and she gave me a frown in exchange, not buying my response. I understand why Sabrina is acting this way, she is just worried that I won't feel comfortable throughout the entire business trip knowing that I'm with Tyler. Two days isn't just two days for me, it means a lot, it has a lot of baggage with it. Excess baggage, just those little fragments left after the entire issue has been cleared off. I was still getting over things after what happened at Ria's party, it has only been days and I was certain to take things slow.

It will be a flight to New York with Tyler. A trip to New York with Tyler. Staying in a hotel with Tyler. Going to the same building for two days straight with Tyler. Going back home with Tyler. It means I have more time with Tyler, and I was somehow scared for my self and my sanity. All of it seems to work as a breeze for him, he is completely fine with it and I think I'm starting to grow envious of it. I think this time, the problem is me, I'm putting too much of the past in this situation: where it's clearly not needed and not necessary.

"No, it's fine." I evaded her question, again. She stared at me, stressing about the idea of this entire business trip, there was trouble in her eyes. It felt nice knowing she's worried for me, that she cares so much, but I couldn't bear with the thought of leaving knowing that she'll constantly fear for me out there or that she will end up messaging me minute by minute. I want to reassure her before I leave. Instead of hearing another question from her about the trip, I stared at the cardigan on top of my bed. I pointed. "Sab, can you please pass me that?"

"Are you a hundred percent sure about this?" She asked again, this time, I stared at the cardigan on her hand, then I raised my brow up. I answered 'About the cardigan? It looks nice on me. Yes, I'll bring it with me.' then, she glared at me. I laughed, but I tried to keep it in, I don't want her to think I'm not taking her seriously. I just don't want to hear her so skeptic about this, I might end up having the same thoughts. Worst than the thought I already have. "Not the cardigan Val! I mean, this trip! You and Tyler. Are you really okay with it? You know Dad isn't even pressuring you about it, you don't have to force yourself..."

"It's for Monteverde Corporation and VFE, Sab. It's not about me and Tyler, it's for work." Hearing myself say those words makes me rethink the things I've said in my head earlier, it was like I was showing how much of a hypocrite I am. She looked at me, her head tilted to the side, watching me as I silently folded the clothes in front of me, placing them inside my duffle bag. "Don't worry about me. I'm sure your schedule is also packed, I'm surprised you managed to find extra time to be here."

"I have to, Valerie. I can't let you fly on a plane with Tyler tomorrow without us having a little heart-to-heart talk. No matter how often you tell me to stop worrying about you, I'll always be worried, because I'm your sister." She says, walking closer to me and she held my hand tightly. I looked at her, and I felt a sting on my chest, thinking about my decisions deeply as I saw her observe my facial expressions. "If you're having second thoughts, don't go. But if you're only changing your mind to ease my tension, then go to that business trip. I'll always worry, Val. I trust you, that you're doing this for the company. Just please, never forget to message me if you need someone."