Ever had been waiting for this day to come, so whatever happened that night with Allesandro in her house, she totally forgot about it.
As the sun began to set on the day of the gala, Ever arrived at the luxurious private hall in California, where her boutique's launch party would take place. She was focused to ensure that everything was in order.
With her checklist in hand, Ever carefully checked every detail of the event. She examined the decoration, the food, the music, and even the restrooms.
Finally, pleased that everything was perfect, Ever led her feet to the changing room. Only a few hours were left before the event could start and she wanted to make sure she looked stunning.
As she got there, Ever's eyes gazed on a dazzling red gown. Her makeup artist was already ready for her. "Ever, honey! I have everything you need tonight."
She led Ever to a dazzling red dress that glowed in the dark. The material was chiffon , and the gown was just made for her . Ever's eyes sparkled as she looked at her reflection in the mirror.
"I love it ," she exclaimed, her heart pumping with excitement. "This is what I call fashion."
With lyric's expert help, Ever put on the dress, feeling like a boss. The red chiffon draped elegantly on the body creating a beautiful flute line.
The private hall in California was in a vibrant frenzy as Ever prepared to launch her boutique since her return. The room was filled with philanthropists, Elite executives, influencers, models and fashionistas
Ever, dazzling a stunning red gown, stood confidently at the stage, eyeing the crowd. Her eyes sparkled with confidence and pride energy as she began her speech.
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the launch of my boutique, 'Eternal Elegance!'" Ever's voice rang out clear and strong, filling the room with her infectious enthusiasm.
As she spoke, the lights dimmed, and a spotlight shone on the boutique's logo, which was emblazoned on a massive screen behind Ever. The crowd erupted into applause, and Ever smiled, her eyes shining with happiness.
"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for joining me tonight to celebrate the launch of my boutique," she said, smiling warmly.
"I'm especially grateful to our international guests who have traveled from far and wide to be here with me tonight. To our friends from Russia, Italy, and South Africa, thank you for making the journey. Your presence means the world to me; please enjoy the party."
As the music played, Ambrose Li, a handsome and charming entrepreneur, approached Ever with a smile.
"Would you let me have this dance, Ms. Miller?" He asked under his breath.
"The attention shifted to them, and Ever didn't want to seem rude; with her smile, she nodded her consent.
Ambrose led her to the stage, and the spotlight followed them.
"It has to be you" by Harry Connick Jr. played in the background as they danced.
"You look stunning, Ms. Miller," he said, whispering in her ear.
Ever smiled to herself, gazing around the hall, pretending not to hear him.
"I said you look beautiful…the way the lights catch your hair," he said as he leaned closer, his voice trailing off.
Ever continue to smile. her eyes fixed on some distant point, ignoring Ambrose's words.
"You're not going to make this easy for me, are you?" He chuckled softly and spun her around, his eyes locked onto hers.
Ever's gaze drifts past him, her expression serene. "Alright, I get it; you're not interested." He released her hand, and they continued dancing as he smiled wistfully.
As Ambrose's words hung in the air, a sudden commotion erupted from the entrance of the gala hall. A tall, lean, handsome man with a tailored tuxedo that accented his broad shoulders, his hair neatly styled with his piercing blue eyes, strode confidently into the hall.
A collective gasp echoed through the hall.
"Wow, he's so handsome! Who is he?" Another guest chimed in, "I have no idea, but he's absolutely gorgeous. "Women's eyes widened with excitement while men with envy.
Most of the guests are from overseas and didn't know much about New York City people, but others who are in the business industry knew.
Is he a celebrity? A little girl's voice pierced through the room; his dad replied sweetly, "I've never seen him before, but he's a big shot.
Another woman who seemed interested in the conversation said her words too. "Who doesn't know Allesandro Wales? I bet you live under a rock,she mocked.
Ever's eyes were still fixed on some distant point.Snapped back into focus when the song stopped; as she turned, her feet got weak and betrayed her. Alessandro was walking towards her, commanding the attention of everyone. Her gaze met his, and for a moment time seemed to stand still.
Some guests exchanged knowing glances sparkling with curiosity. One woman whispered to her friend, "Isn't he...?" Her friend nodded discreetly, her voice barely audible. "Yes, he's Allesandro Wales. He came to support his ex-wife."
As Allesandro caused murmurs, he wasn't moved at all. His eyes roamed over Ever's stunning gown; a hint of satisfaction crept onto his face. "I knew it would look good on you, he said, his deep voice low and smooth.
She froze, her heart pounding, and it was only a matter of time before it exploded out of her chest.
"You… How did you do?" She began her voice faltering, but because she could finish her words, he interrupted her. "No one knows what you like better than I do, Ever, and I wanted to see the mother of two look her best."
The words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken meaning. Her eyes flashed with a mix of emotions: shock, anger, and a hint of pain and fear. She felt like she was drowning in Allesandro's intense gaze. The cameras flashed, capturing the intimate moment.
The hall erupted into more flurries of whispers and gasps.
"Look at the way he's looking at her." Someone exclaimed.
Li Ambrose couldn't understand why everyone was so invested in Alessandro; his expression darkened as he watched how Allesandro's gaze never left Ever; he never thought someone was interested in her too.
As the opening notes of "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston filled the air, Alessandro's eyes locked onto Ever's. He took a step closer, his voice low and husky as he began to sing the lyrics.
"If I should stay..." Alessandro's voice caressed the words, his eyes burning with intensity as he gazed at Ever.
Alessandro's voice grew stronger, more passionate, as he sang about the enduring power of love. Ever's eyes welled up with tears, her gaze meeting Alessandro's as he reached out and took her hand.
"May I have the pleasure of dancing with you, Ever?" Alessandro whispered, his eyes pleading with her to surrender to the moment.