PART 11 - "Birthday Bash Breakdown"
Nova's first birthday was more than a party - it was a celebration of survival, love, and legacy.
The entire office was invited to the rooftop garden decorated in soft pinks, gold balloons, and twinkling fairy lights that made the night sparkle like magic.
I wore a blush bodycon dress that hugged my postpartum curves with pride. My hair was sleek, makeup flawless, and my smile wide enough to light up the city skyline.
Devon stood beside me in a crisp white shirt and tailored navy blazer, arms wrapped around my waist and eyes full of pride.
Scene: The Party Starts
Nova giggled in my arms, a little crown perched crookedly on her head. Friends, coworkers, and even some of the old enemies - now kept at a safe distance - had come to celebrate the little queen.
But beneath the laughter, I sensed something was off.
Carl was nervously pacing near the entrance. Devon's phone buzzed incessantly. And someone kept casting furtive glances toward the catering table.
Scene: The Sabotage Unfolds
Suddenly, screams shattered the festive air.
A guest stumbled, clutching their throat, eyes wide with panic.
I dropped Nova into Devon's arms and rushed over to see that someone had poisoned the champagne.
Security swarmed. The party turned chaotic.
Scene: The Aftermath
HR launched an immediate investigation. Fingers pointed, alliances cracked.
And as if the night couldn't get worse, Jasmine - a former coworker who'd disappeared months ago - showed up, claiming she was pregnant.
But the father?
Not Devon.
Not me.
Rumors flew like wildfire.
Scene: Confrontation in the Office
I cornered Jasmine, voice low and fierce.
"Who's the father?"
She looked me dead in the eyes.
"Marcus."
The name hit like a bullet.
Scene: Devon's Reaction
He was silent for a long time, jaw tight.
Then, with steady hands, he took mine.
"We handle this like we handle everything - together."