Falling For My Ex's Dad by Oma Green

Chapter 43: Caught In The Middle

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The past week had been long and grueling. I spent every moment working with Nicole on the Gemia project–endless days and even longer nights. We were both terrified Gabriel might reject our designs and ideas again. He’d already threatened to pull us off the project, and I couldn’t afford for that to happen. So, I pushed aside every ounce of frustration and resentment I felt toward Nicole, at least until the project was done.

Gabriel had been right about one thing–Nicole was smart. I had to give her credit for that. She was quick–witted, and under different circumstances, maybe we could’ve been friends. But knowing she had no problem being with a man who already had a girlfriend made it clear we didn’t share the same values. Not that it mattered now.

The presentation was only days away, and I was determined not to let Gabriel down again. We were halfway through finalizing the designs and ideas, and I wanted everything to be perfect. More than that, I wanted to blow Gabriel away so there’d be no room for doubt about the project.

I hadn’t seen Gabriel in person all week, but earlier today, I received an email from Tems.

Subject: Award Ceremony Invitation

Sender: Tems

Mr. Storm would like to invite you to an award ceremony tonight at 7pm

Please note: It’s a black–tie event.

A driver will pick you up from your house and hand you your invitation card, which will serve as your entry pass. Be ready.

My heart skipped a beat. Was Gabriel inviting me as his date? Were other staff members going to be there? I had no idea what to expect. My mind spun with questions, but I didn’t have any answers.

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Chapter 43: Caught In The Middle

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Since signing the contract, Gabriel had made it clear I was at his beck and call. For the next year, he essentially owned my time. As much as I hated losing my independence and free time, I couldn’t deny I was grateful for the 400% salary increase.

Although it felt hypocritical after how hard I’d fought him on it, it wasn’t entirely my fault. I was raised by strict parents who taught me that nothing in life was free. I needed to know exactly what Gabriel expected in return for that raise.

But the truth was, I needed every penny. My car was falling apart, and last week, my mom called asking for help with a loan payment. That was when I learned my parents were struggling with their mortgage. I’d sent them all my savings, which left me broke again. The raise had come at the perfect time.

But as I stared at the email, one anxiety–inducing thought hit me: *What am I going to wear?*

A black–tie event? I couldn’t afford to look out of place.

I rummaged through my closet, pulling out dress after dress, but nothing looked elegant enough. Everything I owned was either work–appropriate or casual. Frustrated, I slumped onto my bed until an idea struck me–Jess. She always knew what to do in situations like this.

The place was stunning–grand and filled with famous, influential people. Flashing cameras captured guests on the red carpet, and I

for me with an emerald green gown that shimmered under the lights, hugging my body perfectly. It was a Dolce & Gabbana dress she’d worn once, a gift from one of her wealthy admirers. I

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my his but tonight, hooked like

let me in. The moment I stepped inside, I realized

more banner read Annual Philanthropy Awards. Gabriel was being honored Awght. That part

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seen. Feeling slightly out of place, I tried to Awad in the soft and background chatter calm my nerves. Then, a familiar voice called out

through me. I turned and lost my breath. He was dressed in a sleek black tuxedo, perfectly tailored to his lean, athletic frame.

walked side by side, I could feel the

me closer, his hand tightening around mine. “You look beautiful tonight,” he whispered, his breath brushing against my ear,

managed a smile.

me to the other guests–people I’d only read about in business magazines. Jonathan, the CEO of a top tech firm, Rebecca, a high–powered charity board member.

placed a reassuring hand on my arm. “Are you okay?” he asked

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I felt between their world and mine? I was just a junior software engineer.

her attention to me. “So, Clairessa, is

work as

Gabriel cut in, his

you must be very talented to work so closely with Gabriel. You seem quite young to

I could. “She’s young, yes,

own? His reaction only made me feel more out of place. Why had he even invited me if he didn’t trust me to speak for

to Gabriel, her hand brushing his. “When are you coming back

his hand back subtly. “Sometime soon,” he replied politely, but

in me as her laughter filled the room. Rebecca was stunning and clearly belonged in Gabriel’s world -a world I

event. After a musical performance, the host spoke:

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applause as Gabriel stood. A projector displayed

pulled him back and kissed his cheek. I stiffened, feeling out of place all over again. I couldn’t compete with women like her, who fit so effortlessly