I did exactly as Mark instructed, making sure the entire mansion pulsed with party energy. Music floated through the air, soft but thrilling, and the chandeliers glistened like a thousand tiny suns. The maids were a huge help, flitting from corner to corner with trays of champagne and glittering hors d'oeuvres.
"Wow, Aurora, you're a genius! Just look at the house!" Tiwa gasped, her eyes wide with admiration. Thanks, Tiwa," I smiled faintly. "But the guests will be arriving any moment now. We need to get ready." Back in my room, my eyes fell upon a stunning purple gown hanging in the closet, and my heart gave a small flutter. I knew instantly it had to be from Mark. Slipping into its silky embrace, I let the fabric cascade over my curves. The slit up the side revealed just enough of my thighs to make it dangerously eye-catching.
This time, I applied my makeup myself. No maids hovering, no helping hands I dismissed them politely. I'd always been independent; I didn't need anyone to turn me into the woman I wanted to be. My hands worked deftly, curling my hair into soft waves, the kind that tumbled like whispers over my shoulders. I fastened the matching jewelry set Mark had given me a subtle but dazzling touch. Lately, he'd been showering me with gifts, and I wasn't sure if it was guilt or… something else.
Taking the elevator down, my breath caught when the doors opened to the glittering ground floor. The scent of expensive perfume and champagne mingled in the air. My eyes scanned the crowd, searching unconsciously until they landed on him. Mark stood across the room, looking effortlessly commanding in a black Armani suit. The cut of it made him look like he'd stepped out of a high-society magazine.He saw me. And then, he walked toward me.
"You did a great job, Aurora," his deep voice rumbled when he reached me. "My business partners are impressed. "I'm glad they are," I replied, a hint of pride in my tone."And you look beautiful in the gown I got you." I smiled faintly. "Thank you. You don't look bad yourself." Our arms hooked together naturally, and for a fleeting moment, I felt something close to peace. Maybe… if things went well, I could bury the past, and perhaps, find happiness.
Mark's POV
She was a vision tonight. From the moment she stepped out of the elevator, I couldn't take my eyes off her. And when I caught her scanning the crowd, searching it hit me. She was looking for me. I quickly averted my gaze, but when our eyes finally met, I had no choice but to walk to her. Her friends joined us, smiling and greeting warmly. Even Max, though we were still not on good terms, forced a civil nod for Aurora's sake.
"Bestie, you look so good," Angel beamed at her. "I know, Angel," Aurora said softly. "Always remember to be happy. Just let go of the past." Aurora gave a small, sad smile. I didn't miss it. What happened in the past? I wondered, watching her closely.Just then, my earpiece crackled.
"Ma'am, I'm already at the party," Lucas's voice said low. "I've set the cameras. I'll make sure to disgrace her. "Good job, Lucas," came a cold female voice on the other end.Aurora was laughing at something Angel had said when a sudden splash cut through the moment. She froze, looking down to see her gown stained with bright orange juice.
"Oh my what a mess…" The maid holding the glass looked horrified.Aurora looked up calmly. "It's okay. I'm fine." Mark was at her side in seconds, eyes blazing. "Are you fine?"
"Yes. I'll just go clean this up." He turned on the maid, his gaze like a dagger. "I'm really sorry, sir," the maid stammered. "It's fine," Aurora said quickly. "I'll change and come back."
Mark's jaw tightened, but he nodded. "Hmmm…" Then he glanced toward the shadows. "Scorpion."Yes, sir."
"You know what to do with that maid."
Scorpion gave a short, dangerous smile. "Of course, sir."
Mark's lips curled into a dark chuckle. "No one messes with my woman," he muttered under his breath. In her bedroom, Aurora carefully blotted the stain from the gown before using her hand dryer to smooth it out. She was almost done when she turned toward the door only to freeze.
A man stood there.
Her pulse jumped. "W-who are you? This is the master's bedroom you can't use the washroom here!" But he didn't move. And the look in his eyes made her step back instinctively…