CH- 7

Amelia’s POV

I tugged at the hem of my dress again, trying to pull it down over my thighs. It didn’t matter how much I adjusted it—this outfit still felt wrong. The pre-launch function dinner was supposed to be a celebration, but instead, it felt like a glaring spotlight on everything I wasn’t. Why had I even come? Sitting alone at the bar, sipping lemonade and avoiding eye contact with anyone who dared glance my way, I realized this had been a terrible idea.

The hall was massive, filled with round tables and chairs arranged neatly under soft lighting. The ambiance was calm, beautiful, and soothing—a stark contrast to the storm brewing inside me. My personal issues weighed heavily on my chest, making it hard to breathe.

Earlier that day, I’d finally snapped at my mom. After begging her for weeks to take the cleaning job I’d found for her, she refused yet again, claiming it wasn’t “good enough.” Frustrated, I shouted words I immediately regretted. Though I apologized later, the tension between us lingered, poisoning the air in our tiny apartment.

Now, sitting here among colleagues I’d worked alongside for nine years, I couldn’t help but feel invisible.

These people knew me—or at least, they should have. Yet no one approached me, no one smiled or laughed with me. I might as well have been a ghost haunting the edges of their perfect lives.

Years ago, I was different. Back then, I threw myself into work, eager to impress Nathan Delanza and prove my worth.

But somewhere along the way, I lost that spark. No matter how hard I worked, it never seemed to be enough.

Slowly, the joy drained out of me until all that remained was a shell going through the motions. Yes, I still did my job—and well—but the passion was gone. Tonight, though, I clung to a sliver of hope.

Maybe tonight would change everything.

Two women waved as they passed by, interrupting my thoughts. We’d collaborated on a project once, but looking at them now, I barely recognized myself in their polished reflections. Their porcelain skin, tall frames, and slender legs were exactly what men like Nathan admired.

Me? I was invisible. For nine years, I’d stood right in front of him, only to watch his gaze drift past me toward women like them. Tonight, I told myself, he’d see me. He had to.

I watched him move through the crowd with his friend Lucas, greeting guests and exchanging pleasantries. This pre-launch event was attended by some of the biggest tech buyers in the country—all potential clients for our company’s products. I knew without a doubt it would be a success.

Nathan never failed. His confidence radiated as he ascended the podium, commanding attention effortlessly. My heart began to race. This was it—the moment I’d been waiting for.

I’d broken into my savings and borrowed two thousand euros to buy this dress. If I didn’t become the lead recruiter tonight, I didn’t know what I’d do. As Nathan’s deep voice filled the microphone, I felt its vibrations ripple through me, almost dizzying. Standing there in his jet-black suit, he looked every bit the regal billionaire he was. His hair gleamed under the bright lights as he welcomed everyone to the prestigious Grandeur Hotel.

“At Forge Technologies,” he continued, “we don’t just talk about innovation—we show you the future. Together, we’re revolutionizing technology to make the world a better place.”

The audience erupted in applause, and I joined in, clapping harder than anyone else. This was my chance. My moment.

“And because none of this would be possible without the dedication of our team,” Nathan said, pausing dramatically, “tonight, I’m honored to promote several employees who’ve worked tirelessly behind the scenes.”

My pulse quickened. This was it. This was the moment when the world would finally see me—not as the timid, overlooked employee, but as someone capable, talented, and deserving of recognition.

“Our new lead recruit team leader is…” Nathan paused, letting the anticipation build. My knees trembled, and I braced myself to walk up to the podium. “…Gabriella Martin.”

The name hit me like a punch to the gut. Gabriella? That…that child? Beside me, Gabriella let out an ear-piercing squeal. Her thick curls bounced as she strutted to the stage, beaming like she’d just won the lottery. I couldn’t believe it. All my years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication—passed over for her. She didn’t even know what a résumé was!

Bile rose in my throat as I bolted from the hall, desperate for fresh air.

My vision blurred as tears threatened to spill. I stumbled into the ladies’ room, flung open the door, and collapsed against the sink.

The dam broke.

Deep, wracking sobs shook my body, and I didn’t care who heard or saw me. Everything I’d worked for—all those late nights, early mornings, and endless sacrifices—meant nothing.

No one here saw my potential. No one cared.

As I cried, a gentle hand tapped my back. Startled, I turned around to find a short, round woman staring up at me. Wrinkles framed her eyes, giving her a kind but knowing look.

“I’m sorry,” I stammered, grabbing a wad of toilet paper to wipe my face. “I didn’t realize anyone was here.”

“Don’t worry about that,” she said softly, her tone laced with understanding. “I’m here to make you feel better.”

Her words sent a jolt through me. Suddenly, I understood. This wasn’t coincidence—she was sent by them.

The men from last week. They hadn’t forgotten about me. A wave of anger surged within me, fueled by humiliation and betrayal.

Without thinking, I made a decision I would regret for the rest of my life.

“Yes,” I whispered, my voice trembling with rage. “Help me.”