Once Upon A Student Billionaire

Eloise

 I settled on the coach, reaching for the television remote. Today was Lucian's big day and the event was broadcasted.

 This silly illness prevented me from accompanying him but I didn't care.

 "Tonight, the world will see my vision." I smiled, feeling the pride in my chest.

  The Live broadcast finally began, the spotlight settled on Lucian, as he made his way to the stage, looking impeccably polished in his tailored suit. I had never felt so proud, I couldn't help but smile and settled deeper in the cushion.

  "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us tonight. I'm thrilled to announce the launch of our latest collection-a collection crafted with love, passion, and elegance" He said, his deep steady voice echoed through the speakers.

  My heart fluttered, "Our" collection, I repeated in my mind. 

  "I've been fortunate to work with someone special on this project, someone whose talent and dedication have brought this vision to life" Lucian said, his gaze sweeping over the crowd as he spoke.

  I held my breath, my pulse quickening with pride and excitement. I could practically feel my name on his lips. 

  "It is my honor to introduce the genius behind this collection..." Lucian paused, then smiled.

  The camera zoomed in as he extended a hand, gesturing off-stage. My smile widened, my fingers tightening on the edge of the couch. 

  The camera zoomed back to the crowd and a figure emerged from the stage, it was Jennifer, Lucian's ex lover and also my step-sister appeared on the screen.

  My breath caught in my throat, and from that moment my world began to spin.

  She stepped into the spotlight, gliding toward Lucian as if she belonged there- as if she had any right to stand on that stage, wearing a dazzling gown that sparkled beneath the lights.

  Jewels dripping from her neck and ears. Jewels i had designed.

  "What!...?" I exclaimed,my voice barely a breath.

  He turned to Jennifer,his eyes beaming, his arm slipping around her waist with a casual intimacy that made my stomach twist. 

  The way he looked down at her with a softness, a warmth that I haven't seen in his eyes for once.

  "Jennifer has been an inspiration to me, both personally and professionally," he said, his voice laced with admiration.

  "I couldn't imagine anyone more fitting to lead this project with me" He continued.

  I felt my chest tighten, my breath coming in short, shallow gasps. This can't be happening. It can't be!"

  My marriage with Lucian shouldn't have happened, it was a marriage I accepted for my selfish reasons. My childhood crush came asking for my hand in marriage and I couldn't miss that opportunity.

  I thought after this years, with the child we bore together that our love must've awakened but it didn't.

  I was just loving a man that would never love me, a man that was never mine to begin with, a marriage I could've rejected and discarded my selfish feelings.

  The crowd applauded, their faces lit with admiration and awe. People were clapping for her!-for Jennifer.

  The woman who had barely even been part of my life, who despised and spited me whenever she pleased, was now basking in the success I had dreamed of.