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.

filled with famous, influential people. Flashing cameras

come through for me with an emerald green gown that shimmered under the lights, hugging my body perfectly. It was

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but tonight,

let me in. The

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

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to Awad in the soft and background chatter calm my nerves. Then, a familiar voice called

sleek black tuxedo, perfectly tailored to his lean, athletic frame. His dark hair was slicked back, and though his beard was freshly trimmed, it still gave him

side by side, I could feel the eyes of the room on us,

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

smile. “Thank

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. I smiled politely and shook hands,

hand on my arm. “Are

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43: Caught In The Middle

explain the gap I felt between their world and mine? I was

turned her attention to me. “So, Clairessa, is it? What exactly

as

his tone firm.

“Well, you must be very talented to work so closely with Gabriel.

“She’s young, yes, but incredibly talented and dedicated.”

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

closer to Gabriel, her hand brushing his. “When are you coming back to the villa?” she

soon,” he

was stunning and clearly belonged in Gabriel’s world -a world I didn’t. I hated how small and unimportant I felt compared

the event. After a musical performance, the host spoke: “Ladies and gentlemen,

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43: Caught In The Middle

displayed clips of his philanthropy- scholarships, libraries, workshops in underserved communities.

Rebecca 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