The stage lights shone on Yvette Ashworth, her silky black hair a stark contrast to the shimmering green of her eyes.
She held aloft a gleaming trophy, the culmination of years of tireless work.
The applause was thunderous, a symphony of appreciation for the renowned world designer and CEO of Solstive Creative.
"Let us all congratulate Yvette Ashworth, the visionary behind the latest fashion bag sensation!" the announcer boomed.
As she stepped off the stage, a handsome man, Roxy, approached her with a playful grin. "Well, well, well, the haggard mother counterattacks!" he exclaimed, his words laced with affection.
Roxy had been a constant source of support during Yvette's time in France, where she pursued her studies and built her business.
Their friendship was a testament to their shared journey.
Yvette smiled, her trophy held high. "Of course, I'm the only one who deserves this," she said, her voice filled with quiet confidence.
Laughter filled the air as Roxy took the trophy from her hands, offering a helping hand.
"So, what's the plan now?" he asked, his gaze lingering on her.
Yvette knew exactly what he meant.
The question of the fathers of her twins hung heavy in the air. "Rhys will accept his child," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of worry. "But what about the other twin? I can't bear to see him hurt."
Roxy sighed, his expression grave. It was a miracle of miracles – Yvette had given birth to twins, but with different fathers.
Five years ago, she had been the legitimate Young Lady of the Ashworth family, but life had dealt her a cruel hand.
Her mother's early death had left her vulnerable to the machinations of her stepmother, who had become the new matriarch.
To survive, Yvette had clung to the side of the renowned Young Master Anderson, the sole heir to Anderson Corporation, a company worth trillions.
But fate had a twisted sense of humor. One fateful night, she had lost her
virginity to an unknown man in a hotel.
The next night, Young Master Anderson, fueled by jealousy and possessiveness, had forced himself upon her.
Devastated and heartbroken, she had fled to France with the help of her professor, seeking solace and a new beginning.
Now, she was a successful designer, a company CEO, and a proud mother of her twins. Yet, the past still haunted her.
As if on cue, one of her sons called out, "Mom!"
Yvette turned to see her son, Rhyson, the child she had with Young Master Anderson.
She had named him after his father, Rhys.
"What is it, baby?" she asked, her voice softening.
Rhyson pouted, his dark gray eyes mirroring his father's. "I said let's eat now. Brother Yves already cooked dinner."
Yves, the eldest twin, emerged from the kitchen, spatula in hand. "Stop disturbing Mom, Rhyson," he said, his voice calm and measured. "She's probably tired after the awarding ceremony."
Rhyson sighed dramatically, his pout deepening.
Yvette couldn't help but chuckle at the familiar genes of his father.
Rhyson's dark gray hair and eyes were a miniature replica of Rhys Anderson.
Turning her attention to Yves, she smiled gratefully.
Unlike his brother, Yves possessed a quiet maturity. His stunning white hair and piercing gray eyes were a testament to his unique heritage.
"What did you cook for dinner, sweetheart?" she asked, her voice filled with pride.
Yves set down the spatula. "Steak, pasta, with coffee jelly for dessert, Mom."
She sighed, a mixture of relief and wonder washing over her.
Had she saved the Earth in a past life?
How else could she be blessed with such extraordinary sons? One, a mischievous and charming imp, the other, a responsible and thoughtful young man.
"Come here, you two," she said, her arms outstretched. "Let Mommy give you a big hug!"
Rhyson's eyes lit up, and he immediately launched himself into his mother's embrace.
Yves smiled, a warmth spreading through his chest.
He walked towards his mother, his heart overflowing with love.
He wished this moment could last forever.