Chapter 2 A Family of Strangers

Monica's POV I stared at the email for several minutes, unsure whether I should open the attachment The sender's address was unfamiliar, and the message contained no explanation. Whoever had sent it knew my name and seemed to know something about my family I had spent enough time being treated like a traitor I wasn't going to believe an anonymous message without proof. Still, curiosity got the better of me I tapped the attachment a document opened on my screen. It carried the Hayes Group logo and several pages of figures, dates and transaction references. Most of it meant very little to me. I wasn't involved in the company's daily operations, and my father had never encouraged me to learn about the business I scrolled through the first page, then the second. There were names I didn't recognise and figures large enough to make my stomach tighten. At the bottom of the document was a short sentence some things are not what they appear to be. My fingers went cold before I could examine it further, footsteps sounded in the hallway. I quickly locked my phone and placed it on the table. My mother entered the living room "Monica, what are you doing here?" "Reading" She glanced at the book beside me. "Your father wants everyone downstairs tomorrow evening we have something important to discuss." I sat up. "What is it?" "The anniversary celebration for Hayes Group is coming up. There are arrangements to make, and we need to be prepared." I nodded slowly "Am I expected to attend?" "Of course why wouldn't you?" Her answer surprised me. For once, she wasn't telling me to stay away from a family event I wanted to believe her "Your father wants the family to appear united," she continued. "There will be investors, business partners and members of the press I expect you to dress appropriately and avoid unnecessary conversations." I understood what she meant don't embarrass us "I won't," I replied. She gave a brief nod and walked away I considered showing her the email, but I knew how that conversation would end. She would ask why I was receiving confidential company documents and probably accuse me of creating another problem so I said nothing. The following evening, I went downstairs at the time my mother had requested everyone was already gathered in the living room. My father stood near the fireplace, speaking to James. Liam occupied one of the sofas, while Myra sat beside our mother "You're here" my mother said when she noticed me "Yes, mom." My father cleared his throat. "As you all know, Hayes Group will be celebrating another successful year. This event is important to the company, and I expect every member of this family to understand what is at stake." James nodded. "The investors will be there we need everything to go smoothly." "Exactly," Dad replied. "The press will also be attending I don't want anyone making careless statements." His eyes briefly settled on me I looked away "Monica," he continued "I expect you to behave yourself" I frowned. "I always do" "See that you continue" James let out a quiet laugh "Don't worry, dad. We'll make sure she doesn't get into trouble." I turned towards him "I don't need you to supervise me." "Then don't give us a reason to" "James," my mother warned, but there was no real anger in her voice. Myra reached for a glass of water "I think we should just focus on the celebration It's supposed to be a happy occasion." Everyone agreed I waited for someone to mention what I would be doing nobody did "Is there anything you need me to help with?" I eventually asked. My mother looked at me. "You can attend with us nust make sure you are ready on time." That was all I nodded, hiding my disappointment. Over the next few days, the mansion became busier than usual. Staff members moved between rooms carrying decorations, garment bags and boxes my mother spent hours discussing the event with the organisers, while James received calls from people connected to the company. I tried to keep myself occupied I submitted applications for two more internships and searched for opportunities outside the family business. I wanted something that belonged to me, something I could achieve without needing my father's approval. The scandal had followed me farther than I expected that afternoon, I called Kianna "How is my favourite rich girl doing?" she asked I laughed. "I'm not sure whether I should be offended." "You're supposed to be grateful. How's life in the mansion?" "Busy the anniversary celebration is coming up" "Are you going?" "Apparently, I'm allowed to attend this time." "How generous of them." "Kianna" "What? I'm just saying." I smiled, but it faded quickly "I'm worried people will still be talking about the leaked documents." "They probably will but you didn't do anything, Monica. Don't let their opinions make you forget that." "I know" "Do you?" I didn't answer immediately "Just promise me you won't let anyone humiliate you again." "I'll try" "That's all I ask" After we ended the call, I returned to my laptop. I had another application to complete, and I was determined not to let my family's treatment distract me then my phone vibrated. It was a message from an unknown number I hope you're prepared for the anniversary celebration not everyone there wants you to be seen. I read it twice a second message arrived before I could respond and whatever happens, don't trust the person who smiles at you the most. My heart began to race I immediately called the number, but the call didn't go through I stared at the screen, wondering who would send me such a message. Then I looked towards the doorway my younger sister, Myra, was standing there. She was smiling, but the moment her eyes fell on my phone, her expression changed "Who are you talking to, Monica?" she asked