THE CURSED LUNA
Chapter 41

Amira pov

It was the day of the finance conference for all business professionals. My anger simmered beneath the surface. I got out of bed and approached the wardrobe to grab my favorite red suit, which was ready for the meeting. Tris had done everything he could to ensure I could attend without him, but I can't overlook how he has supported me in my business endeavors.

"Hey, Emily, it's only 6 a. m. Don't stress about a meeting at 8 a. m.," he said, struggling to wake up. I let out a weak chuckle and turned to look at him.

"Don't worry, I'll be okay. I just need to get ready," I replied, smiling as I walked toward him. A sense of urgency hit me, and I felt a dryness in my throat. "Mm... I need some water; I'm really thirsty," I murmured softly.

Tris quickly tossed aside the blankets and got out of bed. "I'll grab you some water," he said, his voice still thick with sleep. He made his way to the kitchen, flicking on the light, and I heard the refrigerator door open. He came back with a glass of cold water, which I accepted with gratitude. I took a few sips, the refreshing liquid easing my dry throat.

"Thanks," I said, smiling at him. "I really don't know what I'd do without you."

Tris returned my smile, his eyes crinkling with warmth. "You'll never have to replace out," he replied, his tone affectionate. He leaned in and placed a soft kiss on my cheek. "Now, get ready. You're going to impress everyone at that conference." I nodded, a wave of determination washing over me. I was prepared to face this meeting and establish my presence in the business world. With Tris by my side, I felt capable of overcoming any challenge.

As I walked to the bathroom to start my preparations, I couldn't shake the feeling of gratitude for Tris's constant support. He had been my anchor throughout my entrepreneurial journey, and I recognized that much of my success was due to him.

I took a deep breath, feeling my nerves begin to calm. Today was going to be fantastic.

A few minutes into my shower, I crouched near the bedside, my eyes heavy. I still felt a bit off when I reached the bed. My stomach was growling with hunger, but I had no appetite for food. The hotel is large, offering everyone the opportunity to eat and cook whatever they desire. "Emily, are you feeling alright? You seem a bit strange."

I gave a faint nod, attempting to dismiss Tris's worry. "I'm okay, just feeling a bit... off," I murmured, my voice almost inaudible. I didn't want to admit it, but the fatigue and nausea were overwhelming me. I had been overexerting myself, and it was finally taking its toll.

Tris settled next to me on the bed, his expression clouded with concern. "Maybe you should skip the conference today," he proposed gently. "You can always attend another time."

I shook my head, trying to replace some resolve. "No, I have to be there," I insisted, my voice gaining a bit of strength. "This is a significant opportunity for me, and I can't let it pass by."

Tris nodded in understanding, but his worry lingered. "Alright, but promise me you'll look after yourself today," he urged, his gaze intent on mine. "If you start feeling worse, you'll return to the hotel and rest, okay?"

I nodded, feeling thankful for his support. "Okay," I replied, attempting a smile. But as I stood to finish getting ready, the room began to spin, and I had to grip Tris's arm for balance.

"Whoa, take it easy," he said, alarm evident in his voice. "Maybe I should accompany you to the conference, just in case."

I paused, uncertain about him seeing me in this state. Yet, a part of me felt comforted by the idea of having him there. "Alright," I finally whispered.

"Put on your clothes, or should I help you get dressed? That might be better," he joked, resting a hand on my shoulder. I was at a loss for what to do since I already felt so weak.

I let out a weak laugh, feeling a bit embarrassed by my vulnerable situation. "I think I can handle it," I said, attempting to sound more assured than I truly was. However, as I stood up and started to get dressed, I began to think that Tris's offer might not be such a bad idea after all.

My hands trembled as I struggled to button my shirt, my fingers feeling heavy and uncooperative. Tris noticed my difficulty and stepped in, gently taking over the task. "Let me help you," he said softly, his fingers brushing against mine as he worked.

A wave of gratitude washed over me, mixed with a hint of frustration at my own inability. I despised feeling dependent, yet I was also thankful for Tris's support.

Once he finished dressing me, Tris handed me my suit jacket and assisted me in putting it on. "You look fantastic," he said, offering a reassuring smile. "Now, let's grab some breakfast. A little food might help you feel better."

I nodded, feeling slightly more optimistic. Perhaps Tris was right; maybe all I needed was a meal to get back to my usual self. But as we headed to the hotel restaurant, I couldn't shake the nagging feeling that something was amiss. It is possible that the pregnancy is affecting my well-being, or there may be another underlying issue; I felt utterly fatigued, and everything seemed to induce nausea. I refrained from informing Tris of my suspicions regarding the pregnancy, as I did not wish for him to feel distressed about the situation.

As we took our seats at the restaurant, thoughts of a potential pregnancy occupied my mind. For weeks, I had been experiencing discomfort, and the signs were becoming increasingly difficult to overlook. However, I hesitated to share my concerns with Tris, fearing his reaction. Although we had previously discussed the idea of starting a family, I was uncertain about his readiness for such a commitment at this time.

I attempted to set these thoughts aside and concentrate on the menu, yet nothing seemed appealing. Tris, noticing my reluctance, recommended that I try some toast or crackers, believing that something bland might ease my stomach. While we awaited our meal, Tris engaged in conversation about his plans for the day, unaware of the turmoil I was experiencing internally. I nodded and smiled, striving to maintain a facade of normalcy, but internally, I felt overwhelmed. When our food finally arrived, I managed to take a few bites of toast, though it felt like a daunting task. Tris observed me with concern, but I dismissed his worries with a casual shrug, not wanting to burden him.

Following breakfast, we made our way to the conference center, with Tris walking beside me.

The entire venue was filled with chaos, and my heart raced as I spotted Sheelah, that witch who always seemed to gravitate towards me. I knew she would turn the conference into a nightmare for me. "Tris, we can't sit near Alpha Christian's table because of his wife, Sheelah. She's a real troublemaker," I whispered to him, my voice barely above a murmur.

Tris noticed where I was looking and saw Sheelah standing there, her gaze sharp and calculating. "Don't worry, I've got your back," he assured me in a low, steady voice. "Let's replace another spot. Come on."

He took my hand and guided me to a table on the far side of the room, putting as much distance as possible between us and Sheelah. I felt a wave of appreciation for him, grateful for his support.

As we settled in, I couldn't resist stealing a glance at Sheelah, who was now beaming at her husband, Alpha Christian. I knew that smile was deceptive. Sheelah was skilled at manipulation, and I was certain she would try to create problems for me today.

The conference kicked off, but my thoughts kept drifting back to Sheelah. What was her plan? How could I shield myself from her tactics?

Tris must have sensed my anxiety because he squeezed my hand gently. "You're safe with me," he murmured, his gaze steady on mine. "Don't let her get to you."

I inhaled deeply and nodded, attempting to steady my racing heart. Yet, as the morning progressed, I couldn't shake the feeling that Sheelah was biding her time, waiting for the right moment to make her move.

Miss Emily, the speaker addressed me, his gaze locked onto mine as he offered a faint smile. I reciprocated with a smile of my own.

"Do you have any thoughts regarding the entire discussion? You don't seem to be in the best of spirits; I hope everything is alright," he inquired, to which I responded with a slight nod. "I am..." I began to articulate my response when Sheelah's ominous voice interrupted.

Sheelah remarked, her tone laced with sarcasm, "I believe Miss Emily is merely having difficulty keeping pace with the discussion. It is certainly challenging to engage when one is unwell or preoccupied with other matters."

Her gaze fixed on me, igniting a wave of indignation at her insinuation. Tris's grip on my hand tightened, offering silent support.

"I appreciate your concern, but I am fully capable of participating in the conversation," I responded, maintaining a tone that was both assertive and courteous.

The speaker interjected, his demeanor visibly uneasy. "Let us strive to maintain a civil discourse and remain focused on the subject at hand. Miss Emily, please proceed with your insights."

I inhaled deeply, attempting to regain my composure. "As I was stating, I believe that the cornerstone of success in this industry lies in innovation and adaptability. We must embrace risks and think creatively."

Sheelah scoffed, rolling her eyes dismissively. "How very original," she muttered quietly.

Tris cast her a disapproving look, yet I chose to disregard her and pressed on, resolute in my intent not to be sidetracked.

"I apologize for Sheelah's interruption," Alpha Christian remarked, directing a fierce gaze at Sheelah that seemed capable of penetrating her very soul.

Sheelah's smile wavered briefly, and she turned her gaze away, appearing subdued by her husband's criticism. However, I understood that she wouldn't be so easily vanquished. Sheelah was skilled in manipulation, and I was certain she was already devising her next strategy.

"Please, go on, Miss Emily," Alpha Christian urged, redirecting his attention to me. "Your thoughts are important, and I believe we all wish to hear more."

I nodded, attempting to concentrate on the discussion. Yet, I couldn't shake the sense that Sheelah's interruption was merely the start of a more extensive plan.

As the conversation progressed, I stole glances at Sheelah, trying to read her emotions. She appeared calm, but I knew that could shift at any moment. Tris, noticing my anxiety, squeezed my hand reassuringly.

Just as the meeting was concluding, Sheelah rose, her gaze fixed on mine with a menacing sparkle. "I believe we've heard enough from Miss Emily for now," she declared, her tone laced with hostility. "But I have a few inquiries for her... in private."

My heart dropped, and Tris's grip on my hand tightened. What was Sheelah scheming?

"Sheelah, you have no further comments," Alpha Christian stated. I exhaled deeply, relieved that he had intervened in the situation characterized by Sheelah's dubious tone. The conference concluded.

As the participants of the conference started to leave, Tris leaned in towards me. "We should leave now," he murmured, his gaze sweeping the room as if he were on the lookout for any potential dangers.

I nodded in agreement, still unsettled by Sheelah's foreboding remark. We navigated through the throng of people, Alpha Christian's farewell advice resonating in my thoughts. "Exercise caution, Miss Emily. Just be careful." Upon stepping outside, I exhaled deeply, and we proceeded directly to the hotel. I was relieved that the conference had concluded.