The Billionaire’s Regret -Alessa (by Bukolami) novel Chapter 22

**Shadows Beneath the Silent Moon**
**Rising Echoes by Aiden R. Vale**
**Chapter 22**

**A FEW DAYS LATER**

“Did we really come to this city just to dress up like birthday gifts every single week?” Aiden scoffed, his eyes narrowed as he scrutinized his stylist with a mix of frustration and disbelief.

The stylist, a petite woman with a warm smile, chuckled softly at his quip. She attempted to adjust the collar of his shirt, but he quickly placed his hand over his chest, halting her movements.

“I’m exhausted,” he confessed, the weariness evident in his voice.

The stylist hesitated, glancing nervously at Alessa, who was seated behind them, her focus on persuading Aria to try on her own dress.

“I’m so sorry, sir. I promise I’m almost finished,” the stylist pleaded, her voice tinged with anxiety.

Aiden felt a pang of guilt wash over him, and he let out a long, resigned sigh.

“You really don’t need to apologize,” he mumbled, his tone softening.

Deciding to allow her to continue her work, he watched as relief flooded her features.

“It’s itchy, Mummy! I don’t want to wear it!” Aria protested, her small hands tugging at the fabric as she tried to escape the stylist’s grasp. Alessa sighed, her eyes darting between the two stylists in the room—one wrestling with Aiden and the other desperately trying to convince Aria.

“Could you possibly create something else?” Alessa inquired, her voice steady despite the chaos.

“Of course, ma’am,” the stylist responded with a respectful bow, her determination renewed.

After what felt like an eternity, the stylists finally completed their tasks and departed, leaving Alessa and her children in the dining room, where dinner awaited them.

“Mummy, where are we headed tomorrow? Is it another ball?” Aria asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

“No, sweetheart. I just signed a contract with the top company in the city for their latest project, and there’s a launch party tomorrow,” Alessa explained, her tone both proud and excited. Aiden nodded, grasping the significance of her words.

“Oh, so it’s a good thing, then,” Aiden muttered, a hint of approval in his voice.

“Will it be fun?” Aria chimed in, her enthusiasm palpable.

“For you two? Not really. It’s all business-related,” Alessa replied, and the kids groaned in unison, their disappointment echoing in the air.

Alessa couldn’t help but giggle at their melodramatic reactions, and they resumed their meals, the atmosphere lightening.

**THE NEXT DAY**

Alessa descended the staircase, adorned in a stunning black dress that hugged her figure perfectly. Her children were already waiting for her, their excitement evident as they gazed up at her.

“Nope, just be the children of a billionaire,” Alessa replied, her voice light as she prepared to step into the spotlight.

“Ready?” she asked, and they both nodded, their smiles brightening the moment.

A guard opened the car door, and Alessa stepped out, flanked by her children, the flash of cameras illuminating their entrance.

The twins walked ahead, reveling in the attention as reporters shouted questions, but Alessa remained unfazed, her focus unwavering.

Once inside the building, employees guided them to a table designated for Alessa and her kids. She helped them settle into their seats before taking her own, feeling the weight of curious eyes upon them. But rather than feeling anxious, she embraced it—she needed this attention!

Surveying the room, she noticed other tables filled with guests; she was the last to arrive. Just as she was about to turn to her children, her gaze locked with Bryan’s from across the room.

His family occupied a table two away, and his wife sat beside him, her expression a mix of disdain and scrutiny. Alessa quickly averted her gaze, but not before catching the sharp glare directed her way.

With a small smile, she looked away, feeling a rush of confidence. She was proud not to feel intimidated by their presence.

Six years ago, in a similar situation, she might have crumbled under the pressure, but now, she stood firm, determined and unyielding, ready to face the Harts, the most powerful family in the city.

Moments later, the event commenced. Various board members from the Harts Empire took turns delivering speeches, while reporters fired off questions, capturing the essence of the evening.

Then it was Bryan’s father’s turn to speak, and the room erupted in applause as he took the stage, the atmosphere charged with anticipation.