[ NOA Grand Ballroom ]
The grand doors of the Noblesse Oblige Academy's ballroom swung open, revealing a breathtaking spectacle of opulence and grandeur.
The vast rectangular space stretched out before the arriving guests, its sheer size awe-inspiring.
Towering Roman columns lined the perimeter, their marble surfaces gleaming under the warm light of countless crystal chandeliers.
Between these pillars, floor-to-ceiling glass walls offered tantalizing glimpses of the meticulously manicured gardens beyond, creating an illusion of endless space.
The ceiling soared high above, its coffered design adorned with intricate gold leaf detailing. Long, narrow skylights ran parallel to the central runway, allowing slivers of the night sky to peek through.
At the heart of the ballroom, a wide runway of polished black marble with subtle gold veining stretched from the grand entrance to the opposite end. Recessed lighting along its edges cast a soft glow, guiding the eye towards the imposing stage at the far end.
On either side of the runway, round tables draped in crisp white linens stood ready for the elite guests.
Each table was a work of art, adorned with elaborate centerpieces featuring a harmonious blend of fresh flowers, crystal vases, and gold accents.
The stage itself was a marvel, slightly elevated and framed by a modern interpretation of a Roman fresco. Hidden screens and state-of-the-art sound systems were seamlessly integrated into its classical design, hinting at the technological marvels to come.
As the guests began to filter in, their gasps of amazement echoed through the space. The sheer scale and beauty of the ballroom seemed to transport them to a realm where classical elegance and modern luxury coexisted in perfect harmony.
The NOA Opening Gala had begun, and the grand ballroom stood ready to host an evening that would be etched in the memories of the world's elite for years to come.
[ Blackstone Limousine ]
The sleek Blackstone limousine glided through the night, on one end was Brandon, while Elise and Bailey shared company on the elongated sofa on the side.
Elise sat ramrod straight, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her gown. Beside her, Bailey bounced in her seat, barely containing her excitement.
"Can you believe it? My first real gala as an adult!"
Bailey squealed, her eyes sparkling.
"I mean, I've been to plenty before as a kid, but this feels different!"
Elise nodded, a small smile tugging at her lips as she glanced at Brandon.
"It does feel... more significant somehow."
Bailey leaned in, lowering her voice conspiratorially.
"Hehe! Going as B's girlfriend. That's… significant indeed, Elise."
A flush crept up Elise's neck, coloring her cheeks.
She glanced towards the back of the limo, where Brandon sat fiddling with his phone.
"It's not... I mean, we're not… we're just..."
"Oh~ My ice queen big sis," Bailey giggled.
"I've never seen you like this with a guy before. It's adorable."
Elise's eyes widened.
"Adorable? I'm not adorable. I'm sophisticated and poised and-"
"And totally smitten," Bailey finished, grinning.
Elise sank back into her seat, her usual cool demeanor cracking.
"Is it that obvious?" she whispered.
Bailey patted her friend's hand.
"Only to those who know you well. But seriously, Elise, it's okay to be excited about this. B's a great guy."
"H-He is," Elise admitted, her voice soft.
"I just... I've never done this before. Being someone's date, openly… or at all. What if I mess it all up?"
"You won't," Bailey assured her. "Just be yourself. You're amazing, after all."
Elise took a deep breath, straightening her shoulders.
"You're right. I can do this."
Brandon leaned forward, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
"If you've commandeered my beautiful date long enough, B, maybe I can have a word with Elise ?"
Bailey playfully pouted, her silver hair bouncing as she shook her head.
"Not officially together yet and replacing your dear twin sister already, are you?"
"Heh~, I'll be right back,"
Elise scooted over to Brandon's side, her elegant gown rustling softly.
"What's up?"
Brandon took a deep breath.
"I was wondering if it would be alright if Bailey walked down the red carpet with us. I-I don't want her to feel alone or awkward on first her NOA red carpet."
Elise's eyes softened, a small smile playing on her lips.
She reached out and squeezed Brandon's hand.
"Of course it's alright. She's like a sister to me. That's very thoughtful of you."
Relief washed over Brandon's features.
He paused, searching Elise's face.
"I'm sorry if this was supposed to be a special moment for you... for us both."
Elise continued, her voice warm, cheeks slightly flushing pink,
"It's your kindness that attracted me in the first place."
Brandon's eyes lit up, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
He leaned in close, his breath tickling Elise's ear.
"Is that so? And I thought it was my devilishly handsome looks."
He planted a soft kiss on her cheek, causing the faint blush that colored Elise's usually composed features to redden.
Bailey watched the exchange with a mixture of amusement and curiosity,
"Hey Hey Hey, you know I'm still here right?"
Elise's tried her best to regain her usual composure. She cleared her throat, a playful glint appearing in her eyes as she fixed her hair.
"Well, well," Elise said, her voice taking on a teasing lilt.
"It seems our dear Brandon isn't content with just one gorgeous lady on his arm. The Casanova here needs two!"
She dramatically placed a hand on her chest, feigning distress.
"Am I not enough for you, Brandon? Do you need to parade down the red carpet with a beautiful woman on each arm?"
Brandon's eyes widened, caught off guard by Elise's unexpected playfulness.
Before he could respond, Bailey let out a squeal of delight and launched herself across the limo. She landed on the other side of Brandon, wrapping her arms around him in a tight hug.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Bailey exclaimed, her silver hair bouncing with excitement.
"You're the best brother ever! I was so nervous about walking alone, but now I get to be part of the power trio!"
Brandon chuckled, returning his sister's hug.
"Of course, B. I wouldn't have it any other way."
Elise watched the siblings' interaction, a genuine smile softening her features. She caught Brandon's eye over Bailey's shoulder, and in that moment, a silent understanding passed between them.