Chapter 1 A season of love

Hera's POV

They say that the Christmas season brings good news, laughter and happiness. It's a season of love but for me...

Well, this isn't about me. Christmas sure came early this year. A month ago, my best friend, Chloe,called ànd invited me to her wedding.

I was happy until I realized that I will have to travel back to Las Vegas to attend her wedding.

I tried to decline the invitation but Chloe being Chloe saw me through.

"Don't you dare say no,Hera or I won't hesitate to fly to Chicago and drag your ass to Las Vegas." She threatened.

That's why I am here now at the airport heading to the airport parking lot.

The airport is as chaotic as ever. People rushing to catch flights, the announcements in the background, and that familiar feeling of being just a face in the crowd.

This is me. I prefer walking around without people having to turn around and give me a second or third glance. But, with a body like mine, a plus size, that's more of a dream.

It's uncomfortable how people will stare at you like having a sizable butt and D cups is a crime. This is Las Vegas after all. Women are expected to be petite ànd sizable. One would think that being thirty years old, I should be used to it. Truth is, everytime,they make me feel like an outcast, a contrast to societal norms.

That's why I moved from here and settled in Chicago where people don't frown on plus size women like me. I also escaped my past here, a past so bitter that I prefer forgetting it, only that I can't allow myself to forget.

I adjust the strap of my purse, my heels clicking against the floor as I try to navigate the terminal. I flew in from Chicago for Chloe's wedding, and while I am happy for my best friend, a part of me can't help but feel... out of place.

I am thirty,still single, and, despite my success in life, I have no real romantic history to speak of.

Well , that is if a failed romance does not count.

My family has been on my neck about getting married. My mother never stops reminding me that a woman without a husband is a failure, no matter how successful her career is. My sister mocks me every chance she gets, calling me a wallflower, a woman who can't keep a man.

Chloe is the only person who accepts me for who I am. Maybe that's why we are best friends.

She has never looked down on my decision to focus on my career. She was there when my last relationship messed me big time. She helped me get back to my feet.

Chloe is one crazy woman though. She has been divorced twice but still insists on finding her soulmate. I'd say, she is strong. She is not like me, giving up after the first trial. Thinking about the crazy things we have done together, I can't help but smile.

My thoughts are interrupted when I collide with something-hard.

"Oh!" I gasp ,almost stumbling backward, but the stranger's reflexes are quick, and he steadies me with one firm hand.

"Whoa there!" The voice is rich, deep, and amused. I look up, only to find a man standing before me with a grin. His tousled hair and strong jawline emits a sense of confidence that draws you in to stare longer.

I take a quick step back, brushing my hair behind her ear, feeling suddenly self-conscious. "Sorry! I wasn't looking where I was going." I mumble awkwardly.

"No problem," he says smoothly,his smile widening. "I think I just survived a direct hit." His deep ocean eyes twinkle with humor.

I don't know why but his easy going nature makes me feel even more awkward. "I'm not usually this clumsy." I try to explain myself. I should be thankful that I didn't end up bumping into one of those rude guys who wouldn't hesitate to rub it on my face that I am fat.

I notice the guy checking me out but instead of the usual disgust I get, something else flashes in hís eyes. Is it intrigue or interest? I can't tell.

"Yeah? I'm gonna have to take your word for it." He gives me a sly grin.

"You know, I think you might be a danger to society. It's not every day someone nearly takes me out in an airport."

I laugh, my cheeks coloring.

"Well, it was nice almost knocking you over," I say, stepping aside to let him pass. I figure out that the sooner he walks away, the better or I'll end up embarrassing myself before a stranger.

He gives me a knowing look. "Trust me, the pleasure was all mine. Safe travels!" And with that, he disappears into the crowd.

I watch him go, a small smile tugging at my lips. As short as the encounter was,I find it quite refreshing. It's like a breath of fresh air. He didn't stare at me with disgust or with the lust others sent my way.

I shake my head from my thoughts and continue on my way, wondering just how my day had taken such an interesting turn.

After boarding the taxi I had ordered, I make my way to the hotel where the wedding will be held.

Since it's an evening wedding, I realize I have enough time to refreshen. I want to give Chloe a surprise so I won't be telling her about my arrival. I can already imagine the look on my face when she sees me.

It's been three years since we last saw each other and I can't wait to hug her.

When the car comes to a stop outside St Luke's hotel, I step out and make my way to the reception where I booked myself a suite.

I have no intention of going home and listening to my mother's insults and my sister's degrading comments.

The receptionist confirms my booking and I collect the card to my room.

With thanks, I turn around and start walking to the elevator.

" Hera,is that you?" A familiar voice calls,making me freeze on my spot.