Chapter 6 - Preparing For The High Society Ball
The days leading up to the Friday night gala blurred into a dizzying routine of private stylists, expensive designer gowns, and silent meals.
Housekeepers buzzed around me like busy bees, draping my body in silk, tulle, and diamonds that cost more than a suburban home.
Leo was my only true comfort during those long hours, following me around the sunroom while I read him stories from ancient fairy tales.
By Friday evening, when I looked at my reflection in the full-length mirror, I barely recognized the frightened waitress from the restaurant.
The woman staring back wore an emerald-green velvet gown that hugged every curve, her auburn hair styled in soft, cascading Hollywood waves.
A knock at the door heralded Ricardo’s arrival, and I turned around to see him standing there in a tailor-made tuxedo.
He paused for a fraction of a second, his dark eyes sweeping over my appearance with an expression that looked suspiciously like raw appreciation.
“You’ll do,” he said flatly, recovering his icy composure before offering me his arm with practiced aristocratic grace.
May you like
“Thank you for the glowing endorsement,” I muttered dryly, slipping my hand into the crook of his warm, solid elbow.
We walked down the grand staircase together, stepping out into the crisp New York night toward the waiting bulletproof limousine.
