The plane's engines hummed softly as I settled into my first-class seat, looking out the window at the clouds.
Five years had passed since I left this city, heartbroken and destitute. Now, I was returning as a successful businesswoman, the CEO of a thriving empire known nationwide. My brands, ranging from high-end fashion to eco-friendly cosmetics, were household names. The transformation felt surreal.
My personal assistant, Grace, was busy typing away on her laptop a few seats down. Beside her, my security team ensured that everything was in order. They were all part of the group that had become essential in my new life. My success had brought wealth, influence, and an entirely new set of responsibilities.
Among my group, however, the most important were my children. Ethan and Emma, my five-year-old twins, were currently engaged in a heated debate, their voices carrying through the luxurious cabin. They approached me, their faces filled with the intensity of their argument.
"Mom, tell Emma she's wrong!" Ethan demanded, his blue eyes sparkling with frustration and excitement.
"No, Mom, Ethan is wrong!" Emma retorted, her hands on her hips and a stubborn pout on her lips.
I couldn't help but smile at their antics. They were both so smart and full of life, each with their own unique personality. Ethan was logical and methodical, while Emma was creative and fiercely independent.
"Okay, okay, calm down," I said, holding up my hands. "What's the argument about this time?"
"Ethan says that the capital of Australia is Canberra, but I said it's Sydney," Emma explained, her eyes wide with determination.
I chuckled softly. "Ethan is right, sweetheart. The capital of Australia is Canberra, not Sydney."
Emma's face fell, her pout deepening. "But Sydney is the biggest city. It should be the capital."
I pulled her close, kissing the top of her head. "Sometimes the biggest city isn't the capital. It's a bit confusing, but it's a good thing to learn."
Ethan beamed with pride, while Emma sulked for a moment before finally giving in with a sigh. "Okay, Ethan, you win."
"Thanks, Mom," Ethan said, giving me a quick hug before running back to his seat, victorious.
Emma lingered, her disappointment still evident. I cupped her cheek, looking into her eyes. "You know, you were right about Sydney being the biggest city. That's something special too."
She smiled up at me, her earlier defeat forgotten. "Thanks, Mom."
As she scampered back to her seat, I leaned back and took a deep breath. Moments like these reminded me of how far we had come. From the depths of despair to the heights of success, my children were my greatest achievement and my most precious treasure.
Returning to the city I had left behind felt like closing a chapter and beginning a new one. My heart swelled with pride and anticipation. This time, I was not the broken woman who had walked away with nothing. I had everything which made my life whole.
Five years ago, my world had turned upside down. Discovering I was pregnant after Alex left me was both a blessing and a challenge. With no family to turn to—being an orphan meant I was truly alone—I had to muster every ounce of strength I had left.
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