Chapter 3 The Special Evening

The long-awaited investors' night party was finally here. Nora returned home from work as twilight settled, the city lights beginning to flicker alive outside her window. The event was set to begin at 7 PM sharp and run until 10 PM, a night where business leaders gathered not only to celebrate their achievements and claim awards but also to forge new alliances. Nora's heart fluttered with anticipation; she could barely contain her excitement as she stepped inside.

Her mother, Mrs. Ryan, caught sight of her entering the living room just as Nora was about to head upstairs. The warm glow of the chandelier cast soft shadows on the walls, and Nora's face shone with a happiness she could barely hide.

"Nora, darling," her mother called gently, beginning to ascend the staircase.

Nora paused and turned, her eyes locking with her mother's. She smiled, a blush coloring her cheeks. "Good evening, Mother. I'm sorry I didn't greet you earlier."

Mrs. Ryan's eyes twinkled knowingly. "I can feel it, the joy in you. You're practically glowing. This evening means more than just another dinner party, doesn't it?"

Nora's blush deepened, a quiet warmth blooming in her chest. Her mother always seemed to see right through her, reading every unspoken thought. This closeness was comforting, yet sometimes it made her uneasy.

"Yes, Mother," she admitted softly, "I'm really looking forward to tonight. I have only an hour left before I need to leave, and I want to make sure I'm ready."

Mrs. Ryan stepped closer, her gaze steady and tender. Nora felt a flutter of nerves, her mother's next words always carried weight.

"Nora, you know I want nothing more than your happiness," Mrs. Ryan said, voice thick with both hope and worry. "Tonight isn't just about awards or partnerships. It's also an opportunity... to meet someone who could be more than just a business connection."

Nora inhaled deeply, steadying herself. Her mother's intentions were clear, and she'd been anticipating this moment.

"I understand, Mum," Nora replied with a faint smile, gently steering the conversation back to safer ground. "But for now, I need to prepare and get there early. Maybe I'll even win another award like last time."

Mrs. Ryan smiled, the hint of pride shining through her concern. "I'll be there later to support you. Go get ready, dear."

Nora nodded, her smile widening as she ascended the stairs, the soft click of her heels fading as she disappeared into her room.

Mrs. Ryan's POV

My daughter is growing and shining every day. The thought lingered in my heart like a bittersweet melody. Nora, once a shy little girl, was now a formidable woman, her name echoing in boardrooms and business circles across the city. Billionaires sought her out; their attention, relentless. How I wished her father were here to witness the woman she has become.

A lump formed in my throat. Tears welled up unexpectedly and trailed silently down my cheeks. I quickly wiped them away, refusing to let my sorrow linger.

My husband, Mr. Ryan passed away when Nora was just fifteen. Poisoned in his office, an act of betrayal we never fully understood or uncovered. In the wake of his death, I took the reins of his company, fighting tooth and nail to keep his legacy alive. The investors' dinner parties were my battlefield too, places where alliances were made, fortunes built, and dreams born.

Handing the company to Nora in her twenties was the proudest moment of my life. She took the helm and soared beyond what I ever imagined. Yet, as successful as she is, one thing troubles me deeply, her refusal to open her heart to any suitor. Time is slipping by, and I fear she will grow too old to start the family she deserves.

A soft shuffle broke my reverie. Rachel, Nora's assistant, appeared with a bright smile, clearly sent to deliver a message.

"Mrs. Ryan, Nora asked if she could use her newest Lamborghini for tonight's event."

I nodded slowly, warmth spreading in my chest. Since childhood, Nora has respected my wishes, even the small ones. Today, asking permission felt like a small rebellion, one I was happy to allow. Tonight, I would let her have the freedom she deserves.

Rachel ran upstairs to tell Nora the good news, and I returned to my couch, my thoughts swirling.

Minutes later, Rachel came down again, this time bearing Nora's greetings. "She's very happy and will be ready soon."

I smiled, setting aside the remote. The television flickered unnoticed as I waited. I knew Nora's dress would captivate the room; she always did. Tonight, she would not only be the center of attention but perhaps, for once, my heart's wish might come true, seeing my daughter find happiness beyond success, and maybe, just maybe, seeing grandchildren before I turn seventy.

Just as I was about to close my eyes, I heard the soft, confident footsteps on the stairs. I looked up, my lips curling into a gentle smile. There she was, my Nora, descending, radiant and ready to take on the world once more.