LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 31: A Serendipitous Shift
The hospital doors slid open as Maria stepped out into the crisp morning air. It had been a week since her harrowing ordeal, and now, discharged and dressed in casual jeans and a sweater, she felt both physically healed and emotionally conflicted. Jack stood beside her, carrying her small bag of belongings.
"Feeling better?" Jack asked, glancing at her with genuine concern.
Maria nodded slightly. "Better than I was, thanks to you."
Jack smiled faintly. "It's nothing. Just glad you're okay. Do you need me to call a car?"
Maria shook her head. "No, I'll manage. I need to go home, clear my head, and prepare for this fashion show Vincent's been pushing."
Jack's expression darkened at the mention of Vincent but chose not to comment. "Alright. If you need anything, just call me."
---
A Sudden Change of Plans
The next morning, Maria sat by the window of her apartment, sipping tea and scrolling through emails on her tablet. Her inbox was flooded with notifications about the upcoming fashion show. One particular message caught her attention.
Subject: URGENT: Venue Change – Fashion Show
Dear Participants,
Due to unforeseen weather conditions, the Winter Fashion Show will now take place in Houston, Texas, instead of New York. Please confirm your attendance at the new venue by replying to this email.
Maria's eyes widened as she read the location. Houston? That's where my parents are now.
A rush of emotions surged through her—relief, hope, and a spark of joy she hadn't felt in a long time. She quickly checked the details, noting the new dates and arrangements.
Her thoughts spiraled as she imagined seeing her parents again, even if only for a brief moment. She wanted to run to them, embrace them, and share everything she had endured. But she knew she couldn't let her emotions show, not yet. Vincent was watching her too closely.
---
The Office
Later that day, Maria arrived at Vincent's office. As always, the building exuded an air of luxury and intimidation. Vincent sat behind his large mahogany desk, skimming through papers when Maria entered.
"You're here," Vincent said without looking up. "Good. We need to finalize your travel arrangements."
Maria nodded, keeping her composure. "I heard about the venue change. Houston, right?"
Vincent finally looked up, his expression indifferent. "Yes. Annoying weather. But it's no problem for us. The show must go on."
Maria hesitated for a moment before asking cautiously, "Have you made all the arrangements?"
Vincent leaned back in his chair, studying her. "Why do you ask? You're not getting second thoughts, are you?"
"Of course not," Maria replied quickly. "I just wanted to make sure everything is in order."
"Everything is fine," Vincent said dismissively. "You'll leave with the team tomorrow. Focus on your performance. This show is important."
---
Preparations
Back at her apartment, Maria carefully packed her suitcase, selecting outfits and essentials for the trip. She couldn't help but smile faintly at the thought of being in Houston, so close to her parents. But she reminded herself to stay cautious.
Before zipping her bag, she pulled out her phone and opened the notes app. She drafted a simple message:
"I'll be in Houston for a fashion show. Can we meet? Please reply if you see this."
She hesitated before sending it, unsure if her parents would even read it. Eventually, she pressed send and tucked the phone away.
---
The Journey
The next day, Maria boarded the private jet arranged by Vincent. The other models and staff chatted excitedly about the show, but Maria remained quiet, her thoughts consumed by the possibility of reuniting with her parents.
As the plane touched down in Houston, Maria took a deep breath. She looked out the window, the sprawling city skyline reminding her of the last time she had visited Texas, long before her career had taken off.
"Maria, you okay?" one of the other models asked as they gathered their belongings.
"Yes," Maria said, forcing a smile. "Just a little tired."
---
The Venue
The fashion show venue in Houston was a grand hotel, its ballroom transformed into a winter wonderland with glittering snowflake decorations and a sleek runway. Maria took in the sights as she walked through the space, her heels clicking against the polished floor.
"You're on in two days," Vincent said, appearing beside her. "Rehearsals start tomorrow. I want you in top form."
Maria nodded. "Understood."
Vincent gave her a hard look. "No distractions, Maria. I mean it."
"None," Maria assured him, though her heart raced at the thought of sneaking away to see her parents.
---
A Quiet Hope
That evening, Maria sat in her hotel room, staring at her phone. There was no reply to her message yet. She bit her lip, wondering if her parents had even received it.
A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts.
"Room service," a voice called.
Maria opened the door to find Jack standing there, holding a tray of food.
"Jack?" she said, surprised.
"Thought you might be hungry," he said with a small smile. "Can I come in?"
Maria stepped aside, letting him enter.
"I heard about the venue change," Jack said, setting the tray on the table. "Are you okay?"
Maria nodded. "It's...better than expected."
Jack raised an eyebrow. "Better? How so?"
Maria hesitated, then decided to confide in him. "My parents are in Houston. I haven't seen them in months. I'm hoping I can find a way to meet them while I'm here."
Jack's expression softened. "That's good news. But you need to be careful. Vincent won't like it if he finds out."
"I know," Maria said quietly. "But I can't let this chance slip away."
Jack placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "If you need help, let me know. I'll do what I can."
"Thank you, Jack," Maria said, her voice filled with gratitude.
As he left the room, Maria felt a renewed sense of determination. She didn't know how things would unfold, but she was ready to take the risk to reconnect with her family.