Chapter 11
A few days later.
“I can’t seem to decide between these two. What do you think?” Hailey asked Debbie over FaceTime. Her iPad was perfectly situated on the dresser, while she stood a few steps away, holding two dresses. “The red one,” Debbie said. “Are you sure? I was thinking black because this red feels too loud.” “No, the red is perfect.” “Okay. Red it is.” “Is Tyler going to be there?” Debbie asked. “Yes, he is. But he’ll come later. He has some work to attend to.” “I hope you’re not going to be lonely for the first half of the party.” “No, I don’t think so. I don’t plan to stay long either.” “You know how I feel about parties.” “Yeah, yeah, it’s all about a bunch of hypocrites, coming together to wine and dine with fake smiles, covering their true intentions.” “You don’t have to throw my words back at me, Debbie,” Hailey said, putting aside the red dress and hanging the other one back in the closet. “I don’t blame you. Your step-sister’s engagement made you give up on adult parties. I still don’t get why you didn’t sue her.” “You don’t want me to get started on how corrupt the justice system is. I’d be stressing myself out because my dad and stepmom would do anything to free her from jail. Do I need to remind you she’s the favorite daughter?” “They suck! Especially your dad!” “You have no idea. The sad thing is, I don’t even know how I ended up in bed with Cole. Everything happened so fast that I was suddenly blamed for being a slut. No one cared about my side of the story. Not even my dad. They didn’t even seem to care that I was forced by Cole.” “Vanessa claimed to be depressed afterward, so she was sent away to heal. Trust me, suing anyone was the last thing on my mind. I was kicked out of the house, I was broke, and literally had no savings. I thought marrying Cole would make my father take me back since I’d be saving the family’s company, but he never regarded me as his daughter.” “Even though Cole was an asshole, he was kind enough to give me a job in his company,” Hailey said, picking out her jewelry. “Whenever I hear this, I get angry all over again. I’m so sorry you grew up surrounded by people who don’t deserve you.” “It’s fine. With a lot of tears and meditation, I’m over that phase. And the only reason I’m going to this party is because it’s a company event to raise money, and the new investors will be there.” “I understand, babe, and I’m glad Tyler will be joining you soon. So, how’s your relationship with your father been since you reappeared in his life?” “He disowned me, so we have no relationship. He didn’t seem shocked to see me at the board meeting, so I assume his lawyer told him enough about me. We’ve only had work conversations. Nothing else.” “He must feel so helpless with so many regrets.” “I don’t think I have anything to do with that. He cut me off.” “What if he asks for forgiveness and wants you back in his life?” “Come on, Debbie! You’re talking as though you don’t know Eric Summers. He’d rather die than admit he’s wrong. I honestly don’t need his apology. I’m better off. I like the way they don’t know much about me. I like the distance, and the respect.” “I should start getting ready. I don’t want to be late.” “Okay, babe, talk to you later.”
Blowing a kiss, Hailey ended the call and started getting ready.
Hailey swallowed painfully when the driver pulled up in front of the event hall. She could see a few paparazzi and, of course, people in their gorgeous attire, taking pictures. The driver opened the door for her. She thanked him and got out of the limousine.
Once they sighted Hailey, three paparazzi rushed to her. “You look so gorgeous, Hailey Riley!” the female one said loudly, while the others nodded. “Thank you,” she replied with a confident smile. “It’s hardly been a week since you took over Summers Incorporations, and we’ve heard amazing news about the company. There’s been a 20% increase in the company’s portfolio. Can you tell us the secret?” “I think the glory goes to all the staff of Summers Incorporations for working twice as hard in the past few days, and I am most grateful for the investors who chose to do business with us during our lowest times. We won’t stop here. We will keep working hard to get back on track.” “Do we see any rivalry coming up between ENROL and Summers Incorporations?” another person asked, holding the microphone to Hailey. “Both companies are separate entities and are not in the same line of business. Although I run both Incorporations, I give you my word that ENROL will continue to remain at the top, and Summers Incorporations will regain its lost glory. There’s enough room for every company to reach its potential and go beyond.” “I see you’re without a date. Is it true that you’re in a relationship? Should we be expecting wedding bells soon?” Hailey was about to answer when she saw Cole walking toward her with the paparazzi. “Yes, I am in a relationship, which I would like to keep private. Thank you.” With a smile that didn’t reach her eyes, Hailey slipped away into the hall before Cole could reach her.
The event was in full swing, attended by all staff members of Summers Incorporations, as well as directors, shareholders, and investors. Introductions were made, food and drinks were served, and everyone mingled as soft music played.
“Oh well, it feels good to finally see you,” Hailey said, rolling her eyes as she faced Connie. “Nice dress, nice purse, and shoes. How much did you get them? Let me guess, you’ve started taking funds from the company you’re supposed to be helping?” Hailey smiled. “You needn’t resort to underhanded tactics. You envy me, and it’s obvious.” “Gone are the days when you could upset me. Nothing you say bothers me anymore because I know it comes from a place of pain and bitterness. But I am willing to sue you for any defamatory words.” “I can see you’re a brat!” Connie said, glaring. “You think you can control everyone just because you got rich by chance.” Hailey smirked. “Not really, but I won’t hesitate to put people like you in their place.” “I know you’re not as wise and clean as everyone thinks you are. And I’m going to expose you.” Hailey folded her arms, still smiling. “Oh, Connie, I can’t wait!” “What’s going on here?” Vanessa’s familiar voice approached. The music made it hard to hear their heated conversation, but Vanessa knew Hailey to be her enemy and assumed it wasn’t a pleasant one.