Chapter 9
Michelle, all decked out in her high–end dress, was hanging out backstage, ready to step up and claim her prize.
Just then, Antonio’s phone rang.
He felt a surge of irritation, pulling out his phone to turn it off.
But he happened to see a WhatsApp message flash on the screen. “Antonio, call back now. Something happened to Grace.”
Antonio let out a scornful laugh.
Recalling the message Grace had just sent, he felt a growing sense of repulsion.
He texted back nonchalantly, “What game is she playing this time?”
Michelle was about to hit the stage for her award.
He didn’t have the energy or the inclination to deal with Grace’s antics.
Anything that happened now was just a bid to spoil Michelle’s big moment.
A friend’s call came in, but quick as a flash, he rejected it.
Michelle glanced over, her nerves showing. “Antonio, I’m feeling a bit anxious.”
Antonio took her hand in reassurance. “Take it easy. I’ll be right
Chapter 9
here for you.”
They announced Michelle’s name and the stage was set for her.
Antonio bent down to help her with her dress, making sure she had a clear path.
The spotlight hit her. At that very moment, all eyes were on her.
Michelle took a breath, a soft smile gracing her features. She made her way up the stage, step by step.
The phone rang out again and Antonio picked it up.
A frantic voice came through. “Antonio, Grace’s in a fix. The Parrish villa went up in flames last night. By the time anyone noticed, it was just a pile of ashes.
“Grace is still stuck inside. The police said she might not make it…”
Antonio sneered, “Don’t think I’m clueless about her games. Tell Grace to give it up.”
He hung up, cutting off his friend.
To dodge any fuss, he powered down his phone.
No sooner had he put his phone away than Tyler’s phone started ringing.
It was the same friend on the line.
Before Tyler could even pick up, Antonio pressed the end call button.
Chapter 9
12:58 Wouchert
“It’s Grace pulling stunts again. Pay her no mind. Michelle’s award ceremony comes first,” said Antonio.
Tyler’s brow furrowed. “What is she up to again?”
Antonio scoffed, “She’s up to her old tricks, trying to create a scene and get us to come back.
“She doesn’t want us around for Michelle’s big day, just trying to make Michelle feel bad.”
Tyler’s frown deepened, and he also switched off his phone. “She’s really losing it.
“Grace has been acting too high and mighty. We should teach her a lesson.”
Antonio sneered, “You’re right.”
The crowd went wild, clapping like crazy. Antonio and Tyler were right there, staring at that elegant figure on the stage.
Michelle glanced back at them with a smile. “For winning this award, I’ve got two people to give a big thanks to.
“They are Antonio and Tyler. Without them, I wouldn’t be up here right now. Thanks a lot.”
Antonio and Tyler had these soft looks on their faces.
They kept their eyes on Michelle, like she was the center of their universe.
65551
