The Trap Of Ace novel novel Chapter 5

I cleared my throat, catching everyone's attention around the table. The noise of their cutleries and spoons stopped along.

I knew what I was about to say would upset them. But it had to be done. So taking a deep breath, I said, "I'm leaving for NY this Friday."

Silence. The shock on Tobias's face and sadness that formed over my parents' were clear.

"But we thought as your college is finished now, you'd stay with us again from now on." Dad's forehead creased. Mom agreed with him.

"No Dad. I'm not a kid anymore. I can't just crash here just because my college is over. It's time to build my career. So I've to go back," I clarified.

"But what's wrong with California? You could easily get any job here," Mom argued. "If you want your privacy, honey, then it's alright. But if you look for a job here, at least you can stay close to us." Her voice broke.

"Why don't you help Tobias in our own company?" Dad suggested, and my brother bobbed his head eagerly.

"Yes, in that you won't have to work under anyone. You'll have a free will in your own company. You don't need to leave, Em."

"Dad, Tobias, how many times do I have to tell you that I want to do something on my own? I want to prove myself that I can stand on my feet without anyone's support. I'm extremely grateful to have you guys care for me. But- I can't work in our company. Maybe in the future, but not now."

What I said was true. I wanted to do something on my own ability. But it wasn't the main reason for me to leave right now.

"Alright, if you want to work somewhere else, it's fine by us. But you don't have to go that far from us, honey. You could look out for jobs staying here, near us," said Mom. Guilt washed over me for hurting her like that. But if I stayed here, I wouldn't be able to take care of my heart.

"I'm sorry, Mom. Staying all these years over there, my plans are revolving all around NY. And I'd have reconsidered my plans if I already wasn't called for interviews next week."

I'd two interviews from two prestigious textile companies in NY. And I couldn't miss them even if I wanted.

"And these companies who called me for interviews, they've been my dream places to work at. So, I've to leave this Friday. I'm sorry."

Dad sighed and placed a hand on Mom's, comforting her. "If that's what you want, princess. We won't stop you. We're happy if you're. But if by any chance you change your plans, let us know."

I nodded, relieved that he understood. "Thank you, Dad. But don't worry, I will visit time to time to see you guys."

"But what about Tess's engagement? You can't miss that," Tobias stated.

"It's in next month. Nothing to worry, I will figure something out when the time comes," I assured him. But he didn't look pleased at all. Honestly, I didn't want to go away from them again. But I didn't have any choice.

***

A knock landed on my door, and Warner poked his head in. "You busy?"

"No really. Just checking some emails," I answered. Placing the laptop on the bed from my lap, I turned to him. "How did your dinner go with your cousin?"

He shrugged. "Good. Just as usual. You tell me, how did your talk go with your family?"

A sigh left my lips. "They weren't happy. But they also know that I'm not gonna budge from my decision."

I glanced outside the window, gazing at the starry night.

"Hey, what is it?" he asked, turning me to him.

I bit my lip, my throat tightening. "Nothing, it's just… it's difficult to go that far from my family. Even if I stayed away for years. But still, I wish I could stay here with them." But for one person, it wasn't possible.

"Hey, look at me." He grasped my hand. "Everything will be alright. Don't be upset. It's just the beginning of your career. Once you get a good grip, maybe in the future you can shift back to this city. And it's not that you won't visit them time to time. And they can also go and see you there. So, don't worry, okay? Everything will turn out good."

Nodding my head, I squeezed his hand. "Thank you for being always there for me."

He smiled and pecked my lips. "Anything for you."

***

"Where're they?" I asked, adjusting my cap from the scorching sun. People buzzed with excitement around us as they rushed in and out of the auditorium.

"They will be here in no time, don't worry. Let's just go and grab our seats," Tobias said, ushering me and Warner inside.

We were at Castelo Track. The famous place to enjoy horse racing. I didn't know we were coming to this game until my brother called this morning announcing his and Tess's plan. Apparently, Caleb, Tess's fiance didn't get that much time to spend with me and Warner, so Tess thought it'd be great to enjoy a horse race together; a way to catch up with us.

I didn't want to come, but Warner was too excited for me to say no. Even though meeting my sister didn't appeal to me that much, saying no would've been rude to Caleb. So I agreed.

Once we grabbed out pre-booked seats, we waited for the couple to arrive and the race to start. At least thirty or thirty five horses were lined up at the side, far from the auditorium. Their jockeys were preparing themselves and checking their horses to see if everything was alright. Their neighs were covered by the hubbub of the audience.

A smile stretched at the side of my lips. Those horses were beautiful. I'd always wanted to ride one, but didn't get the chance ever.

When Warner brought popcorn and drinks for us, the announcement blared across. The race was about to start in five minutes. "Where are Tessa and Caleb? They should be here by now." He moved his brown locks away from his forehead.

"There they're!" Tobias exclaimed.

Following his gaze, I saw my sister and her fiance climbing down the stairs. In a yellow sundress and a matching hat, she looked stunning as ever. And Caleb chose to flaunt a white Tee and jeans.

And here I was. In a black tank and leather jacket, paired with worn out shorts and sneakers, I didn't even try to doll up a little.

"Sorry, guys! Got stuck with the traffic," Caleb apologized, greeting Tobias with a side hug. And the same with Warner, but when it came to my turn, he engulfed me in a tight bear hug. "I'm glad that you came, Em. Finally I will get to spend some time with my would be sister-in-law and long lost friend."

I smiled. "It's great to see you again. And don't worry, you're not late. The race is about to start."

"I thought you wouldn't come. But I'm happy to see you here," Tess said, giving me a hug. And I didn't reciprocate.

Tobias and Caleb saw the act, but didn't comment on it.