Chapter 48
Damian’s POV
“On my way back from my business trip to New Orleans, I arranged to meet with Valerie in her house but somehow Claire knew about it. I got a text from someone whom I presume to be Claire, asking me to come to a hotel. She convinced me that Valerie was seen in a hotel room with a man. I had to go and see for myself.” I paused, expecting her to say something but she remained mute.
“When I got to the hotel room, Someone hit me from behind and I blacked out. Only to wake up, seeing myself undressed, alone in the room with a note beside me. The note was dropped by Claire. She was the one who set me up and I know that her reason for doing so, is because she wants me not to marry Valerie.”
“Mum, I know that it might be hard to believe but I love Valerie and I want to be with her. Please, I want to reach out to her and set things right. Could you help me, Ma?” I pleaded, hoping that she would know the whereabouts of her daughter.
“Well, if you say so. I’ll be happy to assist you but If I find out that you lied to me, I will not be happy with you. She is staying with her friend presently. I’ll send her friend’s number to you so that you can ask her for the address.”
The call ended and I heaved a big sigh of relief. Valerie, I know that I’ve made you go through a lot of pain, but hang on. It will soon end.
Few minutes later, I received the text message containing Tracy’s number. I dialled her number immediately but there was no response. Just the voicemail and silence.
I dropped a text, telling her that I was Valerie’s boyfriend and that I’d love to speak her later. After hours of waiting for her response, I drifted off to sleep.
I woke up to my phone ringing and it was Tracy.
“Hey, you’re Damian, right? I got your text. It’s nice to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you too.” I replied.
“I’m sorry about earlier, I was at work. I just returned not long ago.” She said.
“It’s fine. You don’t have to apologise. I’m sorry for calling during your work hours. Hope your good?” I asked.
“Yeah. So what’s good?”
“Are you with Valerie now? Is she at home?” I asked, feeling uneasy.
“Uhmmm…she is at home, but not here at the moment. Is there a problem? Do you want to speak with her?” She asked, which left me wondering why she was being nice. I’m sure Valerie must have told her about the cheating stuff.
“No, of course not. She must hate me by now. I believe she might have told you the story but I want you to hear my own side. Please help me to connect back to Valerie. I love her. Whatever happened that day was a setup by her friend Claire. It wasn’t my fault.” I explained.
“Look, I don’t really know what transpired between the both of you, and I wouldn’t want to interfere. But whatever it is, she was really hurt. I don’t know how you’re going to do it, but getting back to Val will not be so easy as you think. She even had to start undergoing therapy sessions due to heartbreak.” she said sadly.
“Oh, Damn it. I didn’t see that coming.”
“You sure didn’t. But I’ll help in any way I can because I know that she loves you and I have seen that you love her too. I’ll help you. But you must be more careful next time.”
I was giddy with joy.
“Oh, Thank you very much. I will not forget this!” I exclaimed.
“So, how do you want to reconcile with her? You’ll have to come over to Texas because I can’t convince her to go back to Los Angeles.”
“Yeah, I know. I’ll be coming over by tomorrow. The only thing I need you to do is to prepare her. But don’t tell her that she’d be coming to meet me. When I get to Texas, I’ll make arrangements at a fanciful romantic place and let you know. Just lure her to the place and leave the rest to me.”
“Alright then. I’m doing this because I want my best friend to be happy and I know that she has found happiness in you. I’ll be waiting for your response. Bye.”
Immediately after the call, I sent for my personal assistant, Patrick. When he came, I gave him specific instructions to book my flight to Texas as soon as possible and scout for possible places where I can carry out my plans for tomorrow.
***********
Valerie’s POV
After sleeping for close to four hours during the day, I feel so refreshed that I’ve been taking enough rests. Damian crossed my mind, reminding me that our wedding was scheduled to happen in three days time, but here we are.
The next instant, my Mum called.
“Val, how are you doing?” She asked.
“I’m fine, mother. Never been more refreshed.”
“It seems you are having a good time. Well, I called you because of Damian. I know that you feel so bad because of what he did, but I’ll advise you to listen to what he has to say first. I don’t want to say too much, but just heed to my advice.” She said quietly.
“Okay, Mom. I was already thinking about that. Thank you very much Mum for always looking out for me.”
When the call ended, I felt a different kind of joy within me as I resolved to call Damian tomorrow.
********
The next morning, Tracy woke me up with a very warm smile.
“Wakey wakey,” she sang.
“Tracy, what’s going on? Aren’t you going to work today?” I asked, covering myself with the blankets once more.
“Nope. I’m taking today off. We’re going out. So get dressed!” She said happily.
“This morning? Surely it can wait.”
“No, Valerie. It can’t wait. Get your ass out of the bed. It’s past ten a. m.” she said dragging me up.
Tracy is acting strange this morning. Waking me up like this.
“You seem very excited. What is the good news?” I asked, sitting up from the bed.
“Don’t worry, you’ll find out soon enough.”
Tracy bustled around me, her hands moving swiftly as she helped me get ready.
“Okay, Val, let’s make you look stunning,” she said, holding up a dress.
My eyes widened as I took in the vision of loveliness a floor-length, strapless gown in a rich, berry-wine hue.
“Tracy, this is gorgeous! What is the occasion? Where exactly are we heading to?”
Tracy grinned. “I knew you’d love it. Now, let’s get you into it.”
As I slipped into the dress, Tracy zipped it up, and I felt transformed. The fitted bodice highlighted my curves, while the flowing skirt made me feel like a goddess.
Next, Tracy tackled my hair, crafting a braided updo that showcased my neck and emphasized my features.
“Makeup time!” Tracy exclaimed, pulling out her arsenal of cosmetics.
With deft strokes, she enhanced my natural glow subtle highlights, defined brows, and a soft, rosy lip color.
As I gazed into the mirror, I barely recognized the woman staring back.
“Tracy, you’re a miracle worker!” I breathed.
Tracy beamed. “You’re already beautiful, Val. I just amplified it.”
I felt confident, radiant, and ready to face the world. With one last glance, I nodded.
“Let’s do this.”
Tracy handed me a pair of statement earrings delicate silver drops with a subtle sparkle.
“You look breathtaking.” She whispered.
I smiled, took a deep breath, and headed out into her car.
*********
The B&B, dubbed “Vineyard Haven,” was nestled among rolling hills and lush vineyards in Napa Valley. This exclusive retreat exuded opulence, from its rustic-chic facade to its lavishly appointed interiors.
As I stepped into the foyer, I was enveloped by warm, golden light pouring through floor-to-ceiling windows. Soft chandeliers and elegant sconces added to the ambiance.
The interior design blended vintage charm with modern sophistication: plush area rugs, rich wood accents, and sumptuous furnishings in neutral tones.
A sweeping staircase curved upward, leading to lavish suites with private balconies overlooking the vineyards.
The grounds were equally breathtaking. Manicured lawns stretched toward the horizon, dotted with ancient oaks and tranquil water features.
A meandering stone path invited strolls through the vineyards, past ripening grapes and fragrant rose gardens.
A sparkling infinity pool seemed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
Every detail whispered luxury and refinement, from the crisp linens to the fine artwork adorning the walls. Vineyard Haven was a haven for those seeking exclusivity and tranquility.
As I explored the estate, I couldn’t help but feel that this was a place where dreams came alive.
As I settled into the sofa, Tracy suggested that we take a walk through the vineyards.
“Tracy, this place is so beautiful. I love it!” I exclaimed.
“I’m glad you like it.”
As we crested a hill, a figure emerged from the distance.
My heart skipped a beat as I realized who it was. I could not believe my eyes. How possible is this?
It was Damian!