The next morning, I woke to an empty bed. The sheets were slightly creased—just enough to show someone had been there. I should have been used to it. It was part of Alexander's routine to wake up early for workouts.
But today felt different.
I felt empty… like something had been taken from me.
I hadn't expected him to return last night since he was with Lilian. Considering Alexander's reputation, it wasn't surprising though. Still, it hurt.
I checked my phone and realized I had overslept. I'd been sleeping more these past few weeks—probably because of the pregnancy. As I stood up, dizziness hit me. I held onto the wall for support before making my way to the bathroom.
"Good morning, Mrs. Blackwood."
"Morning, Maria," I replied, taking my seat in the dining room.
"Mr. Alexander already left."
"I figured." I hurried through breakfast. I hadn't expected to see him anyway.
After eating, I grabbed my bag and drove out of the estate.
When I entered the meeting room, everyone was already there except Lilian and her team. The meeting was scheduled for 9:00 a.m. It was already 9:30.
Since I had also arrived late, I decided to discuss a few matters with the operations manager and creative director while we waited.
An hour passed.
Still no sign of them.
Annoyed, I turned to my assistant. "Contact them."
"Director Alicia, they said they're on their way."
Ten minutes later—nothing.
"Get me Lilian's agent's contact—"
The door opened.
Lilian walked in.
Alexander walked beside her.
Her arms were playfully linked with his.
"They really look good together," someone whispered. Soft gossip filled the room.
A sharp pain pierced my chest, but I forced my expression neutral.
"Boss, Miss Summer, you're finally here," I said calmly.
Lilian approached me with a bright smile and grabbed my hand. "Alicia, you're here too! It's so nice seeing you again."
I gently withdrew my hand. "Nice seeing you too."
"You look more mature now," she continued sweetly. "I remember when you were still in college, calling me sister-in-law."
No one looked surprised. Everyone knew I was Alexander's adopted sister. It was no secret that Lilian and I had known each other.
Three years ago, Alexander brought her home and introduced her as his girlfriend. I saw the way he held her. The way he kissed her in the garden.
Back then, I thought I was destined to watch him love someone else from afar.
But a year later, when we got married, I believed my happiness had finally begun.
Now, watching them together, I understood the truth.
I could never take her place in his heart.
"Thank you," I replied politely. "You look radiant as well, Miss Summer."
"Oh! Did you like the signed album I got you?" she asked. "The singer is a friend of mine abroad. I asked her to sign it since you love her songs."
My heart dropped.
Instinctively, I looked at Alexander.
I had foolishly thought he got it for me.
Alexander met my gaze coldly. "What? Didn't you like the gift?"
I forced a smile. "I liked it. Thank you, Miss Summer. Now, can we begin? We've already wasted enough time."
"Alright," she agreed, then turned to him. "Go back to the office, Alexander. Don't forget we're having lunch together."
"Okay."
He left without another glance at me.
I watched him walk away, bitterness spreading through my chest.