Kamille’s POV
The day of the dinner finally arrived, bringing a mixture of excitement and nervousness that had been building since morning. Zeke had kept his word, ensuring everything was arranged. My children were already at school; Zeke would collect them and take them to his penthouse to meet Nanny Dona.
I smiled, remembering their excitement at the prospect of a sleepover at Zeke’s penthouse. Their enthusiasm waned slightly when I explained we might not make it home in time for their bedtime.
Reon had become more cheerful and relaxed. I understood the responsibility my young son had shouldered in his father’s absence. They were almost five, yet they seemed so grown-up.
I chose a loose, flowery gown, added some sandals, and, using a sunshade, drove to the spa where Mr. Rogers had made a reservation. The spa’s interior was exceptional—beautiful and comfortable. During my marriage, his coldness prevented me from truly enjoying the life I should have had.
I’m not fucking uncomfortable now, right? I groaned softly as I prepared for my treatment.
After the relaxing spa session, I returned home to find the makeup artist and hairstylist waiting, my dress already delivered and hanging beautifully.
“I’m sorry, I hope you haven’t been waiting long,” I said, opening the door.
Receiving no reply, I turned to see them staring in shock. “Hello?” I said, snapping them out of it.
“Sorry, Mrs. Reid, but we understood you’d been dead for four years,” Miss Marie Thatcher said.
Miss Marie Thatcher is Luxstorg’s most famous makeup artist; her studio offers the best services.
“Miss Manor,” I corrected, offering a reassuring smile.
“But we only serve Mr. Reid’s wife,” her hairstylist interjected.
Miss Marie was extremely busy and only worked with high-profile clients in person. I’d never used her services as Zeke’s wife, as I never felt like one in his eyes. She considered it beneath her to work for anyone less distinguished.
“Shall we begin?” I asked. Tonight marked my significant comeback, and I wouldn’t let them ruin it.
They nodded, and they began working on my makeup. While they worked, I called Amanda and Belle.
“Hello, beautiful ladies,” I said after connecting the call.
“Someone sounds energetic,” Amanda teased.
My cheeks flushed. “Well, I’m making a societal comeback tonight.”
“No way!” Belle exclaimed.
“Are you serious?” Amanda added.
“I know the invite’s late, but can you make it?” I asked. I hadn’t meant to leave them out; it simply slipped my mind.
“I’m sorry, Kam, I’m on duty tonight,” Belle replied.
“Me too,” Amanda agreed. “But you could have told us.”
“I’m sorry for not giving you more notice,” I said, trying to hide my disappointment. Though, truthfully, I didn’t have the right to be disappointed.
“It’s fine. How are the kids?” Belle asked.
“They’re at one of Zeke’s penthouses,” I replied. “He’s keeping them safe until I get back.”
“That’s great,” Amanda said. “We’re so happy for you, Kamille. This is a big step.”
“Thank you,” I smiled.
We chatted a while longer before hanging up. Their support meant the world to me, though I felt a pang of sadness at their absence.
“Just in time!” Miss Marie said happily, handing me a mirror. I stared at my beautiful reflection. I never expected a comeback so soon, and certainly not on such a grand scale. My lips were glossy pink, complementing the perfectly applied foundation. Her assistant had done a wonderful job with my curls. It was the most perfect I'd looked in a long time.
My dress was brought in, and I was captivated by its beauty. I never knew Zeke had such impeccable taste. I slipped into the dress and looked at myself in the mirror. The reflection was almost unrecognizable. I admired myself, feeling a surge of emotion that brought tears to my eyes. The diamond embellishments shimmered under the lights. The knee-length flared gown had a plunging neckline and a deep V-back, revealing my fair skin.
I thought of Zeke and smiled, feeling grateful for his support. My phone rang—it was Zeke.
“I’m here,” he said. “Are you ready?”
“I am,” I replied, my heart fluttering. “I’ll be right down.” I hung up as Miss Marie and her assistant left, closing the door behind them.
Here fucking goes nothing.
I took a deep breath and descended the stairs. Zeke waited at the bottom, impeccably dressed in a maroon tuxedo that complemented my wine-gold dress. His expression was a mixture of awe and admiration; his eyes sparkled, and a gentle smile played on his lips.
“Zeke, I…” He cut me off, bending to kiss me.
It was a light, feather-light kiss, catching me by surprise.
“Sorry,” he said, stepping back. “I needed some air; you took my breath away.”
I blushed. “Thank you,” I whispered.
A moment of awkwardness passed before Zeke offered his arm. “Shall we?”
“Yes,” I replied, taking his arm.
We arrived at the dinner hall. The building’s grandeur was exquisite, but the swarm of reporters at the entrance was shocking. Zeke, ever the gentleman, pushed through the crowd, holding the door for me.
“What the hell?! I thought she was dead?!”
“Has she come back from the dead?”
“She might be here for revenge.”
“But she’s not wearing a ring—maybe she’s here to remarry.”
Their gossip was loud enough to hear. They tried to keep it quiet, but didn’t try hard enough.
I smiled triumphantly as Zeke carved a path for me, but a reporter’s question stopped me cold.
“Were you responsible for leaking the evidence against the Manors, leading to Liz and Gabriel Manor’s imprisonment?”
The question hit me hard, but Zeke’s gentle encouragement helped me regain my composure. I forced a smile and entered the hall, leaving the question unanswered.
Inside, the atmosphere was elegant and sophisticated. Zeke made several introductions to high-ranking officials, each more intimidating than the last. I eventually found a table and sat down, needing to calm my nerves. I poured myself a glass of wine, trying to steady my shaking hands. It was difficult to be back in such social settings, especially given our complicated history.
Who rises from the dead after four years and suddenly appears at a dinner with her ex-husband, who married her sister, then divorced her sister, and now claims to love her?
Me! I scoffed, downing another glass of wine.