Chapter 36: Claire’s POV
Chapter 36: Claire’s POV
After a successful day of work, I head back home to Jasmine’s, excited to get ready for my very first nomination tonight. The cab ride went by quickly. I go inside to find Jasmine smiling at me from the kitchen.
“Leo told me the news! Congratulations, babes!” She comes from the kitchen wide open arms. A Jas hug adorned with a smile was just what the doctor ordered. I extend my arms and laugh slightly as we hug.
“Thank you! I didn’t think this would ever happen for me and it wouldn’t have, if I didn’t have your help.”
“That was all you!” Jas says as she pulls back.
“Yeah but if you didn’t let me stay here – I would’ve never been able to focus on work or even start working in my field.” It was true. Had Jas not invited me to stay with her, I would’ve never been able to have focused on making use of my career. A token of my success was owed to her support.
“Nonsense! But someone did leave a surprise for you on your bed and I’m sure you need to start getting ready.” She smiles as I look confused.
I decide to see for myself what was left in my room. It was a beautiful box, wrapped in a bow with a hand written note.
‘I hope you’ll accept this gift. A special occasion for a very special woman. I’ll see you at 8P.M. Love, Leonardo.‘ I tear up as I read the card. Leo had dismissed me for so many years and to see the recognition and prioritization I longed for – I was overwhelmed with gratitude and laced with sadness all over again.
I slowly open the box to reveal a beautifully long gown. It’s silk with a beautiful open–back lacing. I admire it as I run my fingers along the fabric. I decide to get ready and try on the dress last. The moment I slid on the dress, I felt like royalty. The fabric felt like clouds against my skin and I stand in the mirror – admiring it in all its beauty.
Leo had done an amazing job. I hear the doorbell ring and hear Jas opening the door for Leo. I look at my phone – 8P.M just as he promised.
I walk out slowly and keep my head low. I was flattered that he actually came and that made
me nervous.
“No. No. No. you cannot dip your head down in a dress like that!” I hear Jas say and she tips
my
chin up and smiles at me. I smile back shyly and she gives me a quick hug before descending upstairs. Once she leaves, I look over at Leo who is standing firm in his position with a smile. He wore a very nice suit and a tie that accented my dress perfectly,
“You look beautiful, Claire.” He says as he holds his hand out for me.
“Thank you! I saw the note you’d written for me? I say as I take his hand and allow him to
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Chapter 36: Claire’s POV
lead me to the town car.
“Are you nervous?” He asks once we are on the way.
“I never thought this would be something that would happen to me. I feel like it’s a honor to have been nominated.” I say quietly as I recount how much I had gone through to get here.
“You always thought outside the box and were so innovative. It was only a matter of time until someone recognized your brilliance.” He says as he puts his hand on my leg. The way his warm touch felt against my leg reminded me of how much I had missed from my marriage.
I watch out the window as we arrive at the event and see the amount of photographers waiting to snatch shots of the nominees and socialites. I wait for Leo as he opens the door and holds out his hand for me. He slowly escorts me to the door as they take pictures. He handled the ordeal with poise, feeling proud to lead me in.
As we enter, I am crowded by a number of nominees and professional gurus – congratulating and expressing their pleasure in meeting me. They hadn’t even noticed the man in which my arm was intwined with. Leo stood there smiling and looking over at me ever so often to ensure my safety.
“You’re the center of attention tonight. Including mine.” He says as he brings me a glass of champagne. He holds his glass higher for a cheers.
“To your success, your dreams and your happiness. I’m proud of you, Claire. And I love you.” He says this as he looks directly into my eyes.
“Thank you. None of this would’ve been possible without your help. I owe my success to you. I say as we cheers. Leo then gently leans over and places a kiss on my cheek.
Just as we find our seats, Leo tells me it is time for him to announce and will be back shortly. I watch as Leo reaches the stage to give his speech and notice how handsome he looks. His posture, his smile and the eye contact he had reserved for me after every few words. I watch as he announced the winner of the award in anticipation.
