Kate's POV
With Simon at my side, I entered the opulent ballroom with a hopeful and joyful heart. The air buzzed excitedly, and the glimmer of crystal chandeliers swirled over us. It was supposed to be tonight, the night he told everyone we were engaged.
I smiled as I looked at Simon. "Are you ready for this?"
His jaw tensed as he paused. "Kate... there's something I need to say."
I scowled. "What is it?"
The room fell silent as a glass clinked before he could respond. Simon moved forward, raising a hand as his huge body demanded attention.
His voice was firm yet icy as he opened, "Ladies and gentlemen." "I appreciate you coming here this evening. I must make a significant announcement.
My chest began to swell with excitement. It was this.
But what he said next broke my heart.
"I've decided to end my engagement to Kate."
The room echoed with gasps. The world began to blur, and my heart fell.
"What?" I moved closer and whispered. "What are you doing, Simon?"
He looked away from me, his face unreadable. "I apologize, Kate, but this is best for you."
Whispers engulfed me like a thick mist, and tears pricked my eyes. Every glare and every critical look weighed heavily on me.
"Please, Simon," I pleaded, my voice cracking. "We can discuss this."
However, he turned away, leaving me to stand by myself in the humiliating limelight.
Later that night, I sat still in my car, mentally reliving the events of the previous evening. How could he harm me like this?
The memory of his cold attitude stung, but then, another picture flashed-Vanessa. Constantly watchful, constantly close.
Unbidden, as though my mind wanted answers, the flashback occurred.
Vanessa had said, "Simon," with a tone of fake worry in her voice. "You must consider your future. Kate is preventing you from moving forward.
His brow had been creased in struggle. Vanessa is someone I adore. I can't just-
She abruptly interrupted, "You have to." Do you want to be taken seriously by the board? Will you give it all up for a girl with no connections, or do you want to be the head of this company?