CHAPTER-3
Days later, Eliana sat in her living room, lost in a project and her own musings. After weeks of
emotional detachment, she had finally found herself fully immersed in her work. She didn’t want to be
distracted by – people, feelings, or anything that could disrupt her focus.
Then a message from Mia lit up her phone screen:“Hey El, I am on way over. Pancakes - dark or
milk?”
Eliana smiled and replied:“You need not ask”
Mia smirked: “Dark it is then”
Eliana returned to her work. It was 7 in the evening when Eliana finally wrapped up. Mia, by then,
was already sprawled comfortably on the couch, the scent of Eliana’s favourite pancakes still
lingering in the air.
Feeling stiff, Eliana went to take a quick shower.
Suddenly, Mia came screaming into the bathroom hallway, excitement dripping from her voice.
“ELIANA”
Eliana rushed out, concerned. “What is it?”
Mia held out an invitation, eyes gleaming. “The party! It’s tonight – 10 PM. Same day, same time,
every year. Come on, get excited!”
She had already begun scrolling through Pinterest for dress, makeup, and hair inspiration.
Eliana sighed.
“Mia. I don’t want to come this year.”
“Are you sane?” Mia asked.
“Nate is gone El,” she added, her voice softening. “And this time, for good.”
Eliana hesitated. Just because some guy decided she wasn’t worthy on a random Tuesday disnt’t mean
she had to hide from the world. She looked at Mia – at and realized she couldn’t let her down.
Without another word, Eliana went to get dressed.
Mia squealed and hugged her, already buzzing with excitement.
As they began getting ready, Mia checked her phone.
“Oh my God! The CEO of The Davilas is coming. He’s the chief guest!”
Mia twirled in joy, practically bouncing.
“The most eligible bachelor in the city, El!”
Eliana laughed.
“Mia Mr. Davila isn’t just coming to eye gaze us”
“El, let me daydream - nothing wrong in that!” Mia declared.
Eliana burst out laughing, and together, they began getting ready for the night ahead.
CHAPTER 4
The venue was the farmhouse of Jacob Davila. Almost all the influential people of the town were
present. The dimly lit farm featured a separate pool area, a live food counter, and a beautiful young
budding singer, her voice drifting through the night air.
All the eyes turned as a tall, poised women entered.
Wearing an emerald green satin dress that hugged curve of her body, she was Eliana. She moved with
grace, her look completed with minimal gold jewellery. Her black wavy hair was left loose –
effortless, yet perfectly styled.
As they walked through the crowd, everyone’s gaze followed her.
Mia blushed and whispered,
“Tonight’s the night El! Almost all the handsome men are checking you out.”
“I am not interested, Mia” Eliana replied
“At least talk to someone - if not much, just make some acquaintances”, Mia urged gently.
Eliana was not in the mood for new faces tonight – only the ones she already knew. She needed some
time away from any new relationships or, worse, drunken mistakes.
They waved to familiar faces and were about to walk over when an unfamiliar yet striking voice
called out behind them.
Mia turned instantly. It Jacob Davila.
No one ever saw him without a formal suit. But tonight, he wore a button-down white shirt with
rolled up sleeves – just tight enough to trace the muscles beneath. Paired up with blue denims and
white sneakers, he looked effortlessly col. His messy black hair fell slightly over his forehead, and his
sharp hazel brown eyes were locked – on Eliana.
“Are you from the city?” Jacob asked.
Eliana nodded “Yes”
“Haven’t seen you around much”, he continued
“ Not a party kind of person” Eliana shrugged
“I hope you enjoy this party then” Jacob said with a slight smirk.
Mia was awestruck.
“The Jacob Davila just talked to you, Eliana!”
“Mia, let’s not fantasize about him – I am here to forget everything and enjoy myself”
With that, they both walked to the bar counter.
A couple of drinks in, Eliana and Mia were ready to groove on the dance floor. Tipsy, but not out of
control, they danced with full senses alive.
Eliana had the attention of many men that night.
As they moved to the music, Jacob’s gaze never wavered. His fists were clenched, jaw tightened, and
eyes keenly tracked everyone approaching her.
Each smile that Eliana gave to others seemed to chip away at Jacob’s composure.