SOPHIA
That afternoon, just like Zade promised, a stylist arrived at Sky Manor with three garnt bags and a case full of makeup. My mother watched with wide eyes as the woman set up in my old bedroom like it was a professional salon.
"Ms Sophia, Alpha. Harrington sent these options for this evening." She unzipped the first bag to reveal a stunning erald green gown. The second held a elegant black dress with silver details. The third was a red gown that took my breath away.
The red dress was beautiful. It was deep crimson silk that would hug my curves and flow to the floor. The neckline was modest but sexy. It was the kind of dress that was lovely without trying too hard.
"The red one," I said imdiately. My wolf agreed, practically purring at the sight of it.
"Excellent choice. Alpha. Harrington thought you’d pick that one." The stylist smiled. "Now let’s talk hair and makeup."
She worked on for over an hour, transforming into soone I barely recognized. My hair was styled in soft waves that fit well. My makeup was flawless. She put on red lipstick on that matched the dress.
When she finally let look in the mirror, I stared at my reflection in shock.
I looked beautiful and confident. I looked nothing like the tired, heartbroken woman I’d been feeling like for months.
"You look stunning, sweetheart," my mother said from the doorway but her expression was worried. "Are you sure about this? Going to a public event with Zade?"
"I’m sure. I deserve to have a life, Mom. I deserve to do things that make feel good about myself." I sighed. "Even if it makes Damien angry."
"Especially if it makes Damien angry," Patricia added, appearing behind my mother. She grinned. "You look amazing. Go show everyone what they’ve been missing."
I was nervous as I got ready. I was fastening the delicate bracelet Zade had sent when my phone buzzed with a text.
It was from Zade.
Zade: Hope you know Damien will be at the auction tonight with Tiffany. Just thought you should know."
My stomach dropped. Damien would be there. Of course, he would. These high society events were exactly his scene. My wolf whined inside .
I stared at the text for a long mont. For a mont, I wanted to tell Zade I couldn’t go but then I thought about how Damien had looked at Tiffany in our living room and how he’d laughed with her. I thought of how he’d moved on so easily while expecting to just disappear.
I texted back: "Thanks for letting know."
Then I finished getting ready. I’d made a promise to Zade. And more importantly, I’d made a promise to myself to stop letting Damien control my life.
Zade arrived exactly at seven. When I opened the door, his eyes widened. "Sophia. You look breathtaking."
"The stylist did an amazing job." I grabbed my clutch purse, feeling suddenly nervous.
"The stylist just enhanced what was already there." He offered his arm. "Ready?"
"As ready as I’ll ever be."
The drive to the auction house was quiet. Zade seed to sense my nervousness and didn’t push conversation. When we pulled up to the venue, I saw luxury cars everywhere.
Cara flashes went off as photographers captured the arrivals.
"Deep breath," Zade said as he helped out of the car.
We walked up the steps together with his hand on my back. I felt eyes on us imdiately. I heard whispers.
“Zade Harrington with a beautiful woman in red?”
“Who is she?”
People were already speculating, already spreading gossip. My wolf was alert.
Inside, the auction house was stunning. Crystal chandeliers lit up the place. Waiters walked round with champagne and appetizers. People were dressed in amazing jewelry and designer clothes.
The place was beautiful.
Zade introduced to several people –- business associates, art collectors, other wealthy wolves I recognized from pack functions. Everyone was polite but curious. They wanted to know who I was and what my connection to Zade ant.
We were talking to a gallery owner when I felt it – that feeling on the back of my neck. My wolf got more alert. I turned slightly and saw them.
Damien and Tiffany ca in through the main doors. She wore a silver gown that sparkled under the lights. He was in a black suit. They looked stunning together, like they’d planned their outfits to complent each other.
Damien’s eyes found imdiately across the room. His expression got dark when he saw in the red dress, standing close to Zade. His wolf was visible for just a mont in his eyes . Tiffany noticed where he was looking and her smile turned evil.
"Your ex-husband just arrived," Zade murmured in my ear. "Want to leave?"
"No. I’m not running away." I took a sip of champagne, forcing myself to stay calm. "I have just as much right to be here as they do."
"That’s my girl." Zade’s hand moved to my waist. The gesture was probably designed to provoke Damien and from the way Damien’s jaw clenched across the room, it was working.
More people arrived. I stayed near Zad.. I didn’t want another confrontation. I just wanted to get through this evening and have fun.
A bell rang which ant the auction was about to start. Everyone moved toward the main galler. Here, chairs had been set up facing a small stage. Zade guided to seats near the middle.
I was settling into my chair when Damien and Tiffany walked past. They sat three rows ahead of us, slightly to the right. Damien’s hand rested on the back of Tiffany’s chair. She leaned into him slightly, whispering sothing that made him smile.
My chest tightened. My wolf whimpered. That should be us.
"You okay?" Zade asked quietly.
"Fine. I’m fine."
The auctioneer took the stage. "Good evening, ladies and gentlen. Welco to our annual charity auction. Tonight’s proceeds will benefit the Children’s dical Research Foundation. We have so truly exceptional pieces for you this evening."
He explained the rules - paddle numbers for bidding, incrents, paynt procedures. It was standard auction protocol. Then the first item appeared on the screen behind him. A landscape painting by a famous artist.
"Beautiful, isn’t it?" Zade studied the painting. "Is there anything specific you’re hoping to bid on tonight?"
I looked through the catalog they’d given us when we arrived. The magazine was fille wit jewelry, art, rare books, luxury experiences. Everything was expensive and exclusive.
"I’m just here to watch," I said. "And support the charity, of course."
I hoped the night would go well. That was all I wanted
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