Chapter 3 CONNECTING THE BRIDGE

As the evening drew to a close, Anna drove home in a posh Lamborghini, with two Range Rovers following as her car was in the middle. She had learned important lessons about perseverance and the importance of embracing flaws as a result of her slip-up on stage. She reaches for her phone as she tries to forget the incident. The replay just kept going. To examine the note her father had sent her during the movie award, she mustered the guts. When she reads, "Dear Damsel, I was so happy the day I had you," her eyes properly widen. I came across a small girl who was both cute and lovely.

Though time and season may have passed, I could still recall the smell of that precise moment you came into my arms. Your charming eyes and sparkling smiles have always brought joy to me. It reminds me of your mother. I never thought that you would forget that today is your mother's remembrance. Remember, I am always proud of you".

Tears welled up in Anna's eyes as she read her father's heartfelt message. How could she have forgotten such an important day? She had been so consumed with her glamorous lifestyle and the chaos of the awards show that she had neglected her mother's memory. Guilt washed over her, and she couldn't help but feel a deep sense of regret. Her mother had passed away when she was just a child in an auto crash accident when she was six, and although the pain had faded with time, the void in her heart remained. Anna had always tried to honor her mother's memory, but this year she let it slip through the cracks. She realized that no amount of success or fame could fill the void left by her mother's absence. In her pursuit of perfection, she neglected the importance of embracing her imperfections and cherishing the moments that truly mattered.

She wiped away her tears and made a decision. She would make it up to her mother, even if it meant facing her vulnerabilities and imperfections. She knew that resilience was not about never stumbling but about getting back up and learning from the experience. She called her father and apologized for her oversight. She promised him that she would spend the day honoring her mother and making memories that would keep her spirit alive. She called the escort vehicle in front of her to lead the way to her Dad's house. She remembered how the shade of luxury could not keep her emotionless. When she was younger, she would stare at her picture on the wall, Leaving her feeling lost and vulnerable. She was always jealous of other children walking with their mothers.

Soon, they got to her dad's house. Nestled amidst acres of perfectly manicured gardens and towering palm trees, the house of Richard Wilson stood as an opulent oasis of magnificence. Accessed through a set of grand iron gates, the entrance to the breathtaking estate was lined with an array of vibrant flowers and neatly trimmed hedges that led toward an impressive circular driveway.

The exterior of the mansion was a sight to behold, a magnificent architectural marvel crafted with white-painted stone and expansive floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The grand entrance showcased a double-height glass door, adorned with intricate etchings that whispered tales of luxury and sophistication. The structure itself blended seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, offering panoramic views of the rolling hills and glistening waters beyond.

Stepping into the interior of the house was akin to entering an art gallery. The expansive foyer boasted polished marble floors, elegantly reflecting the gentle glow of the ornate crystal chandelier that hung majestically from the soaring ceiling. The walls were adorned with priceless artwork, each piece carefully selected to encapsulate the billionaire's discerning taste and appreciation for the finer things in life.

The open-plan living area embodied the epitome of elegance and comfort. With plush velvet sofas arranged around a stunning centerpiece coffee table, the space exuded an atmosphere of refined relaxation. Large floor-to-ceiling windows lined one wall, providing unobstructed views of the expansive terrace, where an inviting infinity pool beckoned one to take a refreshing dip. As the Lamborghini pulled up to her dad's extravagant home, Anna stepped out feeling like a prodigal daughter. The Range Rovers were parked beside her, but their presence no longer felt necessary. Since she turned 18, she has demanded her own house and life and never wanted to come home. She had learned that material possessions and external validations could never replace the love and connection she had lost.Entering her home, Anna embraced her father tightly, feeling the love and warmth that had always been there for her. Together, they embarked on a night of remembrance, sharing stories and laughter through the tears.

Her father held her hand and said, "I've missed so much, you know. Since you left me alone in this home of mine trying to pursue your dreams and goals, don't you think it's time you officially joined the family business?"Anna lifted her face and moved closer to her dad, touching his shoulders, and said "That's true, Dadd, but I remember I said I would be joining only if you give Akimi a job in the company"Herfatherr rolls his eyes at her and says, "What has this guy done for you that you are so mad about him? Akimi here, Akimi there. You are making this up again, at least not for today."Anna took a deep breath, steadying herself for the conversation that she knew needed to be had. She looked her father in the eye, firm in her resolve.

"Dad, I understand your concerns, but Akimi has been a significant part of my life for the past few years. He has supported me through thick and thin, encouraged me to embrace my imperfections, and has always been there for me, just like you have. I believe in him, and I believe he has the potential to contribute greatly to the family business."