《The Empress Wears Gucci》90 (EPILOGUE)
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I stepped out of my car before I slammed the door closed. I gave my chauffeur a quick nod. He reciprocated a gentle gesture back. The wind breezed past me as the engines of the car turned off. Goosebumps were already forming on my skin; I shivered and hurried into the building.
The automatic glass doors opened. I walked in and was bombarded with the greetings of the front receptionists. I gave a curt nod and entered the elevator. It's been a day since I was here. I walked out of the elevator and straightened my back.
With the click of my heels against the ceramic floor, I have alerted my personal secretary that I have arrived. She was busy filing a few things but stood up when she heard the distinct noise. Her eyebrows knitted.
"Good morning, Ms. Han," she spoke. She studied me. "I... I believe you were supposed to be taking a month off?"
Jasmine was my personal secretary—or personal assistant, if you will. She was always loyal and ready to help me and I admired her for it. Maybe because she had qualities Hua Er did; strong but gentle, kind and a bit nurturing.
"Yes, but I need to clean my office," I said. "There are a few things I'll need to take home with me."
She nodded.
I continued walking but turned around again. "Jasmine, I hope you keep Jaxon in his place. I know he seems a bit too much to handle, but I"—I winked—"feel as if you can tame him."
"Yes, ma'am," she didn't meet my gaze. A small blush crept on her cheek. "He's a handful... But I guess he is able to carry himself."
"Oh, I know, but I don't have to worry. Jaxon knows what he's doing," I turned around. My heels clicked away.
It's been five years since I came back from ancient China. After the lawsuit money, I started up a tech company which gained a lot of investors who joined the wave. We were already a very successful company but I didn't stop yet. I had a vision, and soon, it would become a biotech company. As of now, we are one of the top valued companies in the country.
The empress role I played helped me realise that I was made to be running something. I had the power and the determination to do something... And I did. I realised this gift and I started studying business and leadership. The interest for technology was something I unlocked in my head.
I comfortably sat on my office chair. The view from above was beautiful. Cars were rapidly driving by, and it was lively under my nose. With all this stress, I had to take a month off. It wasn't risky because Jaxon co-founded the company with me. We were both business partners and it was a spontaneous choice to start something beautiful. I knew Jaxon can be able to handle it himself. He was intelligent, diligent, and able to handle tough working conditions.
"Time to start cleaning," I whispered to myself.
Being the CEO and the president of the board of directors wasn't easy. It was hard to keep up with so many things at once, but I love risk-taking.
Starting up a company from scratch was extremely tough and challenging. I couldn't have done it alone. I distanced myself from family and friends, and any leisure activities someone my age would be doing. I remained single because of it. I felt independent, and I was happy like that. What happened in ancient China, in the harem, taught me a lot of things. I have applied them to the world I belonged in.
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I've barely met up with Cherry as well. Since I had no time, it was obvious to say that I haven't visited ancient China because of my heavy schedule.
Things have changed. But I believe who I was still remained. I grew, but I had the same morals and values. After piling the folders in a nice pile for Jaxon, I took a good look at myself in the cosmetic mirror in the corner of my desk.
My face has also changed. I have become extremely attractive—not that I wasn't before, of course.
After cleaning my desktop, I pulled out the drawers. There were two containers of lipstick that I kept for emergencies. Both were red. I took one of them and gently fixed my lips to perfection, before putting it in my purse.
Something glinted from the corner of my eyes as I turned. I did a double-take. The Empress pin sat there, waiting for me to pick it up. I haven't touched it for so long. When I moved into this office, I placed it in the drawer, but I never took a good look at it.
The last time was years ago.
Slowly, I took the pin. It was cold, so cold between my fingers. I pinched it and admired how it looked. It brought back memories. Good and bad memories. I couldn't help but have a smile on my face. There was a wave of emotions overpowering me. I believe Jasmine could turn around and see my goofy smile, but I didn't care.
Hua Er's pin stayed at my house, in the drawer of my vanity mirror.
After tidying everything up and collecting things I needed, I took the Empress pin and gently placed it in my purse.
"See you next month, Ms. Han," Jasmine said as I walked past. "I'll miss you!"
I turned around. "Don't do anything stupid—especially in the elevator. There will be consequences. Tell that to my temporary replacement as well."
"Won't promise you that," the familiar voice was heard.
Ah, I forgot to tell you about Jaxon.
We were business partners. Not lovers. Things just didn't work out. I was an ambitious woman, I wanted to start up the company as soon as possible and I wasn't emotionally available. Jaxon and I remained friends. Now that I think of it, I think one of the only reasons he decided to help me was because he wanted a hot secretary.
I stared at him.
It was probably the only reason.
"Shut up," I rolled my eyes. "You be good."
He crossed his arms and smirked.
"I will," he patted my back. "Go get your rest. You've been stressing too much... Carmen... Is that a strand of grey hair?"
"Where?" I shrieked.
I heard laughter erupt. Jasmine was stifling her laughter, but Jaxon burst into a sly chuckle. He was annoying and I'm surprised I let him stay for so long.
Jaxon's laugh slowly faded. "It always gets you, doesn't it?"
"Goodbye!" I flipped my hair and turned around, walking towards the elevator with the loud and rapid click of my heels.
My chauffeur opened the door of the slick black car. I hurriedly stepped in and adjusted myself comfortably. The engines were on again.
Should I visit? It's been five years... The Emperor promised he wouldn't be mad if I didn't visit, but I felt like this was the best time to visit. I had a month. The Empress pin glinted in the drawer for me to see it... There was no sunlight in this autumn weather. It was meant to be.
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"Ale," I began. "You won't be seeing me for a month. I'll get your pay ready."
"Why, miss?" he stopped the car. We were at my destination.
I smiled at him as he turned around to face me. "I want some time alone. I think I'm capable of driving myself. Besides, I want to go off the grid for a while."
Ale was also one of my trusted employees. He was middle-aged and fun to talk to. He was either extremely quiet or very talkative. There was never an in-between. Honestly, it's easy to deal with that. We've had great conversations together.
"Then, I wish you the best," he nodded, then gave me a slight smile. "Thank you and I hope you have another one of your self-discoveries."
We shared a quick laugh before he drove off.
I lived in a comfortable penthouse in the city. The interior designing was modern and chic, which I loved.
The beautiful lights from the tall ceiling illuminated my place. I placed my bag on the granite countertop and poured myself a large cup of water. As I chugged, I remembered the Empress pin. I quickly placed the cup down on the counter and rummaged through my bag. After finding the pin, I took a close look at it.
Today will be the day I'll go back.
Swiftly, I dashed up the glass stairs that felt cold under my feet. I threw my phone on my bed. I had a great view of the city from my bedroom. The industrial buildings and advanced cars... I will miss them.
And the pollution. I'll miss the pollution as well.
It was irrational, I know. But I needed to talk to the people I used to talk to, five years from now. I quickly texted Cherry, my family, and Jaxon that I'll be off the grid for a while. Jaxon responded immediately, and he knew what I was thinking.
J: Going back?
C: Yes.
J: Alone?
C: Yes. Do you want to come?
J: No thanks. Poke yourself on your bed so you can 'spawn' on your bed... Also, this is so impulsive, don't you think you should wait it out a little?
C: I waited it out for five years, Jaxon. I want to go back.
J: Okay. Be careful, stay safe...
C: I will.
I exited our chat. My parents haven't responded, they take a long time to reply to anyway... I didn't message Cara because frankly, I don't think she cared. Cherry responded with a huge paragraph.
Skimming over it, I laughed to myself. It was just her asking me what was going on and if I was okay. It was whatever. We were always in touch. Although my busy schedule and hers, we always have time to video call or call each other.
"Hello?" I answered the call.
"What the hell do you mean you're going off the grid? What are you? A spy?" Cherry yelled.
I stifled my laugh. "I'll be alright. Don't come looking for me! Jaxon will know where I am, and he won't tell you either. Love you, bye."
Quickly, I hung up the call and plopped my phone on my bed. I don't think I'll be needing my phone, do I? I messaged Jaxon to keep my penthouse safe. I know this place had high security but I needed to be sure. Jaxon lived closer to me, and he was someone I could trust besides Cherry.
This was so spontaneous. But I had a desire to go back. Besides, how many more years will I have to hold it off? Their life expectancy was low too, the Emperor could literally die before I see him!
Before I go back, I need to wear something comfortable. I pray I wake up in my palace. That would make sense, would it? Oh, this was so risky... I loved to take risks. This was fine.
My breaths were starting to roughen as I pinched the pin slightly. I gently placed it next to my phone and walked towards my closet. I put my fingerprint on the lock, and the doors slid open. My fingers immediately ran through the fabric of the silky red slip dress.
Those silk bolts were useful.
After changing into my slip dress, I placed my phone in the drawer. My penthouse was locked. I even had an upper lock just in case. After being in ancient China, I brought my trust issues and paranoia back here.
I was going to see them again. I couldn't believe it... It's been five years. I wonder how things were... I wonder how they would react. I wonder if they successfully covered up my disappearance. Imagine if I came back and everything changed... and I stood there dumbfounded.
Realistically, I don't expect the Emperor to keep the 'Empress' role idle. It was impossible. Niu Lin was probably crowned 'Empress' as of now.
"Well..." I pinched the Empress pin between my index and my thumb.
Just a little poke won't hurt.
I took the pin by the top and swiftly stabbed it in my arm. "Ouch!"
Again, I remember the meditative space I was in when I was on the way there. I felt my body go limp. Not only was my soul light, but my mind and body felt light as well. Everything was spiralling around me. I was in deep sleep, yet I didn't lack awareness. The pin was pinched between my index and my thumb while I let myself fall into a trance.
My heart was racing when I was fully conscious. I kept my eyes closed because I was scared. I was nervous to go back. A lot of things can change in five years. I was afraid to come back during a bad time. Another reason why I was nervous was that I felt guilty for not coming back in time. They must have thought I would never come back. Do they hate me?
Finally, I had the courage to open my eyes. The Empress pin was still with me. My surroundings were familiar. My body was slightly floating.
And wet.
I didn't wake up in my bedroom.
The bathhouse was empty... and also dark. My silk dress was soaked, along with half of my hair. I slowly got out of the large bathtub and silently thanked the Universe that no one was around. Perhaps it was meant to be like that.
I walked out, barefoot. There were no Gucci shoes to support my feet. Those pair of shoes were resting on the top of one of my bookshelves for memories. I lacked interest in wearing them as I aged. Right now, I was walking back to my palace barefoot hoping that no one would see me.
When I arrived, my palace was dark. It was night time. If I sneaked in, they would assume I was a thief. Whatever.
The windows were closed except one. At the back of my palace, there was always this window that was broken. I actually don't know how it happened. I blame Jaxon. But if you looked at the window, you wouldn't expect it to be open at all times. That's why it took me about twenty seconds to slip my body inside.
Did anyone even live here anymore?
The moonlight illuminated the hall. Everything was clean and dusted. No cobwebs, rats, or dusty tops here. It was well kept and tidy...
I reached my bedroom. Someone was in my bedroom. They were snoring quietly. It was a small snore, and nothing too major. It gradually became louder as I walked further in. My hands were clammy and I felt it when I gripped on the desk to hold my balance. I was very ninja-like when I was standing here. Tip-toeing around was easy because I was used to the position of my feet.
My bedroom seemed the same. It still had the same boxes of my jewellery and makeup. I eyed the person sleeping on my bed with suspicion. There was more movement. I shot my eyes at the lower bed and noticed there was someone else sleeping there.
I couldn't see with the lack of light in here.
Was she the new Empress? Was that her lady-in-waiting?
I had to leave... As soon as possible.
Turning my body towards the doorway, I rushed out. Before I could, though, my pinky toe was stubbed by the drawer and I winced in pain. I let out a not-so-loud squeak from my mouth and heard more shuffling from the two beds.
The person sleeping where I slept, woke up. She raised her upper body up and I turned around like a deer under the headlights. I wanted to leave and make a run for it, but I was stiff. The Empress pin was still in my hand, how on Earth could a new empress be here?
But the Emperor could've made a new one?
"Who are you?" the voice asked and I immediately felt stupid.
"Hua Er?" I squinted, but it made no sense to squint. It was dark.
I walked closer. She stepped down the bed and almost ambushed me. Her arms wrapped around me with the strength of a lion rather than a cat, and I heard her sniffing. I didn't want to shed any tears, but there was a few seeping out of my eyes.
Hua Er pulled away. She leaned her body to the left of me and flicked something with her index finger. While still facing me, light immediately entered the room.
They have what now?
Electricity... They have...
I looked up and there it was. A small, old-fashioned light bulb staring back at me. Wow! I'm impressed.
She was staring at me with admiration. Her eyes were in awe as she ran her eyes around my face. I didn't have anything else to say, so I just stared back. Hua Er was on the verge of tears, but held it in. "Ying Yue, I thought you forgot about us."
"I-I would never," I frowned. "Five years have been busy for me. I put work over everything in my life... I even distanced from family and friends." Another round of hugs. This time, I pulled away. I was about to ask about how things were going before we were interrupted.
"Ying Yue?" Lei Shu stood up and rubbed her eyes.
She widened her eyes at me. Standing there with a blank look on her face, Lei Shu slowly pointed at me. It's been five years since I've seen them. I had to remember that. A smile was on my face when I looked at both of them. It's been too long. It's been so long. I wish I visited years ago but at least I am here now. I missed them.
Work was hectic and sometimes I never had the chance to just be in my own thoughts. But I would never forget about them.
Ever.
I fell comfortable in a big motherly hug. Lei Shu was ranting to me about how she was afraid of never seeing me again. She pulled away and shook her head. "Empress Han is now known to have an accident where she can't show her face! They all think you're unattractive now and lost His Majesty's favour!"
"It's better than me being from another world," I shrugged. I looked at Hua Er. "How's everything?"
"Good," she smiled. "It's been so long... I can't believe you're standing here in front of me." She leaned toward her mother. "Are you seeing her as well?"
"Of course I am seeing her, you silly child!" Lei Shu scolded and we both shared a small laugh. Hua Er leaned her body against the drawer and laughed with us.
The laughter died down and Hua Er got serious. "It's a miracle you're here. We need the Empress more than ever right now."
Perfect timing.
But her face was solemn. There were no traces of amusement. She wasn't kidding when she looked like this. She was frowning and Lei Shu was looking away. I didn't want to come here while disaster struck. I wanted to come because it was supposed to be happy time. It was like a vacation... I hoped.
"What happened?" I asked, matching the energy of the room.
She shook her head. "Tomorrow. We'll tell you tomorrow, but for now, let's get some rest."
"Your... outfit is a bit wet," Lei Shu looked at the bottom half of my dress. "I'll get you your sleepwear."
"Tomorrow, your maids will be shocked to see you," Hua Er explained. She settled herself at the lower bed. "They'll get you ready so you can be our Empress again."
I nodded. It's been so long since I've worn the attire and the headpieces. Through the five years, four of those years I almost had the same setting when it comes to people. Every time I entered the building, I was always greeted. Maybe I subconsciously chose that career.
"We can share the upper bed," I finished slipping into my attire. "Hua Er, why do I have to wait tomorrow? Why can't you tell me now?"
"You have to see for yourself," she slowly climbed to my bed. "I apologize, I still think I am dreaming, so I must fall asleep... This... This can't be real."
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