Shadows Of A Forgotten Spring Novel

Chapter 66 Emma froze .

Her heart skipped a beat then picked up at a frantic pace .

Her fingers unconsciously clutched at the fabric of her skirt as she worked on keeping a neutral expression They are talking about me … She had , in fact , given her legal team the go ahead to announce her public appearance at the Aurora Honors .

It was a calculated move in order to control the narrative and prove she wasnt the weak , defeated woman the media had painted her after the scandals involving Annie and herself .

But she hadnt expected the news to spread like wildfire so fast .

Nor had she anticipated this sort of reaction on Jadens part .

Shes going to the Aurora Honors this year ! exclaimed an excited Jaden .

Can you imagine it ? The CEO of W2 Holdings , the genius behind one of the most successful companies in the world finally showing her face ? Shes a one in a billion kind of woman .

Emma seniled faintly , but her chest was heavy .

She watched Jaden speak so admirably and energetic , and for a moment .

thought to tell him the truth .

That the one in a billion woman he was so eager to meet was sitting right in front of him .

But she bit it back .

No , it was better for everyone to find out in the same time and on the same day .

Emma reached for her phone , needing a distraction from her spiraling thoughts.

She opened her social media feed , and right there it was her name , or rather the name of W2 Holdings , dominating every headline and trending topic .

Posts deluged her screen , congratulating the announcement of the mysterious CEOs attendance at the prestigious Aurora Honors .

There was even a viral Strong Woman Challenge , inspired by her reputation as a tenacious and visionary leader who had taken W2 Holdings to unprecedented heights despite the challenges shed faced .

People were posting photos of themselves in power stances , sharing stories of resilience and courage , all in her honor .

Emmas breath caught in her throat .

This is what they see in me It was all too heavy in her thoughts .

Was she worthy of this image that the world built around her ? Was stepping out from the shadows a good thing ? Of course , the incident with Annie and the worry that the eagle eyed people , may soon find a link to connect her to W2 Holdings had goaded her into making , this decision .

But now , looking at this overwhelming attention , doubt clawed at her .

I cant believe it , Jaden said with a joyful sigh , jerking her back to reality .

And to think youll be attending the me ! Youll get to meet one of the strongest women of our time.

Emma forced a weak smile , her stomach churning at the irony .

Yeah , lucky me , she murmured .

e event with Jaden did not even notice her hesitation .

He was already moving to the next point .

Oh , and talking about the event , we have to get you the best gown for it He straightened himself .

We are going to see one of the best fashion stylists tomorrow .

You need something glamorous for the occasion , Emma .

Something that will make people stop and stare .

Emma nodded automatically , though her mind was racing .

Glathorous wasnt an option , it was a necessity .

But not because she wanted to impress as regular Emma Black , the woman whose reputation had been tarnished by Annies lies and Alexanders betrayal .

She was coming in representing Emma Black , the CEO of W2 Holdings , the only surviving daughter of the formidable Mrs.

Elizabeth Walker , Her mothers name alone carried weight in high circles , but Emma had forged her gwn path .

It was finally time to claim her place unashamedly , to prove to the world and to herself that he wasnt a victim but a survivor .

I hope the stylist has something really spectacular , Jaden said , will happy , completely oblivious to the storm brewing inside her .

You deserve to shine at this event .

Everyone there should know how amazing you are .

Emmas lips twisted into a small , almost melancholic smile .

If only he knew the full story .

Thanks , Jaden , she said softly , her voice laced with gratitude .

For all youve done .

Always , he said with a grin .

Now gu rest .

Tomorrow is going to be a long day .

1/2 2/2 Chapter 66 As Jaden left the room .

Emma turned back to her phone , staring at the posts and comments that filled her screen .

Her heart thudded in her chest as she replayed words people had written about her ; a woman of strength , resilience , and inspiration .

For the first time in a long while , she felt like she wasnt alone .

She might be terrified of stepping into the spotlight , but she was ready .

Not just for herself , but for her twins and for her bullies .

Emma set the phone down and leaned over to kiss Ethans forehead .

Were going to be okay , she whispered .

I promise .

Annie stood at the door , her heels lightly tapping against the polished floof as Alexanders car pulled into the driveway .

She was clutching her phone tightly in her hand ; her nails dug deep into the cool , smooth case .

Ever since the announcement .

about the mystery W2 HOLDINGS CEO attending the Aurora Honors event , Annie had been on edge .

Her heart raced in excitement and anxiety .

It had always been the most highlighted event of the year for big shots like her , but now with some anonymous yet strong person like the CEO of W2 HOLDINGS , it seemed enormous .

Her mind went to the perfectly tailored dress hanging in her wardrobe the one shed been planning months and months to wear .

It was striking , planned to make her stand out , but now it seemed almost dull in comparison to the grandeur of what top and this event promised to be .

Tacky , she thought , her lips pressing into a thin line .

Annie prided herself on being at the blending with the elite and befriending people of power .

People such as the CEO of W2 HOLDINGS was the kind of people she loves to move with .

She was so sure that their friendship was going to be a match made in heaven .

She had to stand out She needed to shine .