Chapter 147 - My Doll

Rachel, Noemi and and I hung out a few days before Thanksgiving dinner and it was then I learned that most people in our inner circle had received their wedding invitation to Felix's wedding.

Many had RSVP'd but some who were closer to me were waiting to see if I was planning on going. So far I had not publicized my plans to be away during that time. I had already declined going but the Carters did not say anything about it to my family.

Nor did they tell others of that fact.

This was what bothered me a bit. Realistically my status in society meant quite a bit to the people in our circle. This meant that any events I attended spoke to what I cared about. So it left me in an odd position. I could outright say I was not going, but unfortunately, the history between Felix and I is not exactly unknown. 

People did not know the extent of what occurred between us but nonetheless the breakup was still public and messy. 

This was not to say I cared about the reputation Felix had but rather I was concerned about what people would say about me. I did not want to look like the bitter ex who could not get over a grudge but I genuinely did not care about his wedding. 

So I did not want to waste my time attending. I also was going to France with my boyfriend which is infinitely way better. 

"I think you are making a good choice. The people who have anything to say are not even in your level. Besides this is a business trip so it will be obvious to those who do stick their nose in others business that you are not petty."

Noemi was always one to come with a quick remark. Her point was true, I should not care what others think. But it was also hard to avoid it when you are in my position.

"Is Deans family planning to go? Thats the only scenario that I could think of that would maybe impact if you would go since his family is in the same boat you guys are in."

"Thankfully they too are not going. Dean was not even invited so his parents do not even want to go at all."

After Dean confirmed that he did not get an invitation he told me the outcome from that. It relieved a lot of pressure as if his family went then that might make my parents waver. However, knowing he was coming with me to France was also another comfort.

I felt fine traveling alone but I felt better knowing that we could spend a holiday away from prying eyes. Toni Carter had some connections with the media so I knew she would try to market her sons wedding to help their businesses. I wondered if that would backfire if the media did not see two of the most influential families in attendance. 

"Well regardless girl, have fun on your trip and please send us lots of pictures. We will update you on anything if its noteworthy for you." Rebecca and Noemi have really stepped up as friends for me and I felt their sincerity in making me feel better.

"Thank you guys! And will do I will send lots of pictures."

I had bid them farewell and the rest of my Thanksgiving break came and went. It was a nice unwinding period after all the drama from before. The good food and relaxing vibe was a nice change of pace. I was able to read my book quickly and the chapters continued to get better and better.

However, the passing of the break also meant the fast approaching dates for my trip. Dean had sent me an updated itinerary where he added some of his events he wanted us to do together. I could only see the time and in a tab he put general information about the types of outfits I should wear such as formal wear or more casual clothes. 

It made the anticipation ever more electric. The mystery of the dates as well as the effort he was putting into making the trip a memorable one for me was refreshing. The only event that he had marked with more details was one where he had a surprise gift for me he got in Spain. 

I still recalled the call he gave me regarding the surprise. "I got you something here in Spain that I think you will love." His giddiness was ever apparent over the phone that I could easily imagine the stars he would have in his eyes. I giggled into my palm at his reaction. "Well thank you my dear. I am excited to see what you have in store for me."

In response to that excitement I decided to make extra appointments for myself to make myself the best version I could be. I got my hair, nails, skin and even a wardrobe upgrade.

My stylist Gina worked extra hours helping me prep and pack my clothes to ensure I looked my best while still catering to the weather and my comfort preferences. My hair this year decided to grow which was a nice change. So to help ensure it continued growing I did nothing else other than refresh my bangs and just do a treatment and gloss to help it look healthy and shiny.

Though I did some of these beauty treatments regularly, somehow these made me feel more refreshed and better than normal. It made me realize the slight neglect I was doing to myself. 

"Ok you are all packed up and I have here your itemized list of things so you won't lose anything." Gina shared the list to my phone and got ready to head off for her vacation as well. She normally had lots of time off but due to the amount of events this year she worked more than normal. So in return I gave her the time off starting from when I leave for France all the way into the New Year.

Before leaving she gave me a look before coming up and giving me a hug. "Is everything ok?" As affectionate as she was, this was new for her. She patted my back and tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear. "Nothing I just realized how much time has passed. We practically grew up together and for whatever reason today I am emotional about it."

She wiped the tears from her face before recomposing herself. "Ok my dear, have fun and be safe! I will see you again in the new year so expect fresh designs my doll."