He Hurt Me, Now He Wants Me Back novel Chapter 6

Imogene Scott

“I think Damien knows you’re back in town, but he doesn’t know about Lily yet.” Elinor’s voice from yesterday keeps echoing in my head and I’m unable to concentrate on the artwork my assistant, Emmett Brown is showing me.

“Imogene?” Emmett calls again. “Should I put this George W. Bush terrier painting at the center of the room?”

I cock my head. I sometimes wonder how Emmett knows so much about art when he only has a degree in art history—a made-up degree for rich people.

“Sure. It’s the centerpiece.” I say and he gives me a long look before walking towards the white wall of the gallery.

Emmett is good at his job even though he just started yesterday. He’s twenty five, but still, it’s like God ran out of decent personality, felt bad about it, and overcompensated by giving him a gorgeous face. He’s ridiculously good looking with broad shoulders and a body that puts any male model to shame.

His smugness and lack of personality is a huge turn off, but I had to hire him because his talent is so undeniable.

I sighed heavily as my eyes scans the gallery. It’s alive with people moving around with purpose. The chair and tables are being arranged out front since the event will be held outside. The final touches for tonight’s grand opening are still in progress too.

I’m standing in the center of it all, but my mind is elsewhere. I’ve spent all night thinking about what Elinor said to me about Damien. Damien knows I’m in town but he doesn’t know about Lily yet. It’s only a matter of time before he finally does and what happens then?

My heart squeezes at the thought. He still very much hates me, what if he tries to take Lily away from me? Maybe it’s not too late to give it all up and return to West Virginia? But why should I run? I’ve done nothing wrong, I’m not the one that put a knife to his back!

That familiar feeling starts creeping up my spine again. The feeling of fear and heartbreak. I’ve left this all behind me. For my happiness, for Lily. I’m not going to let it back into my life. Ever. Damien is never going to find out about Lily.

The ringtone of my phone snaps me out of my daze, and I quickly reach for it. The screen flashes with Elinor’s name, and I can’t help but fake a smile as I answer.

“Elinor,” I say, holding the phone close to my ear.

“Hey, Imogene. Just wanted to let you know that Lily is doing great. We’re having a lot of fun,” Elinor’s voice is warm, reassuring, and it eases some of the tension in my body.

“Thank you, Elinor. I don’t know what I’d do without you,” I reply, my eyes scanning the gallery, noting how everything seems to be falling into place.

The only thing not in place, it seems, is me.

“You really should take it easy. It’s your big night, after all. Are you okay?”

“I’m fine, just… busy,” I admit, rubbing my forehead with the back of my hand. I glance at the clock on the wall and realize I’ve been so caught up in the preparations that I haven’t even thought about what I’m going to wear tonight.

“Well, make sure you enjoy yourself. You deserve it,” Elinor says before hanging up.

As the call ends, a wave of panic washes over me. I haven’t even picked out a dress for tonight. I’ve been so engrossed in making sure everything is perfect for the gallery’s opening that I’ve completely neglected myself.

“Emmett!” I call out and he soon appears at my side.

I tell him about my dress situation but he tells me it’s already been delivered an hour ago and waiting for me to try on in the showroom. I furrow my eyebrows, I’m not sure I heard right because it doesn’t make any sense. I haven’t ordered any dresses for tonight, not yet.

Unless, Elinor ordered the dress for me? Of course, Elinor would think of that.

I immediately feel grateful to Elinor, for the fifth time today. I make my way towards the showroom, which is nestled further inside the gallery. As I enter the showroom, I spot the dress hanging on a mannequin in the corner of the room.

It’s breathtaking—a floor-length gown of deep emerald green, with delicate embroidery that shimmers subtly under the light. The fabric looks rich, luxurious, and I can’t help but run my fingers over it. Elinor really has eyes for the good stuff. It's exactly what I would’ve chosen for myself.