The night of the business gala had finally arrived. Ariana stood before her full-length mirror, adjusting the delicate silver bracelet on her wrist. The reflection staring back at her was both familiar and foreign—she had always been poised, always been elegant, but tonight, she exuded something far more powerful.
Her midnight-blue gown was a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The off-shoulder design exposed her slender collarbones, while the bodice, adorned with silver embroidery in the shape of constellations, accentuated her figure in the most regal manner. The fabric cascaded down like flowing water, shimmering subtly under the light, and with every step, the high slit in the gown revealed glimpses of her toned legs. She paired the dress with silver stilettos, giving her an air of untouchable grace.
Teddy, hovering near her shoulder, let out a dramatic sigh. "Ariana, my dear, if I had a heart, I swear it would be fluttering right now. You look absolutely stunning. Like a celestial goddess descending from the heavens"
Ariana smirked, adjusting a loose curl behind her ear. "I'm sure that's an exaggeration."
Teddy placed a tiny paw over his heart. "I would never exaggerate when it comes to my dear Ariana's beauty. Now, go out there and make your enemies seethe with jealousy."
She chuckled. Taking a deep breath, she grabbed a silver clutch and descended the grand staircase, where her parents was already waiting.
They looked up and smiled approvingly.
"You look beautiful, Ariana. This gala is important for our business connections. I trust you'll carry yourself well." her father said.
"As always, Dad," she replied smoothly, linking her arm with his.
Tonight was not just about attending a gala. It was about making an impact.
----
The grand hall of the Crystal Heights Hotel was a breathtaking spectacle. Golden chandeliers bathed the room in a soft glow. The soft hum of classical music played in the background as waiters in crisp uniforms moved gracefully, offering trays of champagne.
Ariana walked in with her parents, her poise and confidence unwavering. Whispers followed her, admiration laced with curiosity.
"Isn't that Ariana Carter?" someone murmured.
"She's grown into such a stunning woman," another whispered.
"I heard she's been handling more of the business affairs lately. She's a force to be reckoned with."
Ariana kept her expression composed, offering polite nods to those who greeted her. She had grown used to the attention though, but tonight it felt different. Tonight, she owned it.
Her eyes subtly scanned the room, her gaze landing on Lucas. Dressed in a sleek tuxedo, he was deep in conversation with a group of executives. His posture was relaxed, but the moment he spotted her, his entire body stiffened.
Ariana met his gaze for only a second before looking away, uninterested.
It was then that she saw Sophia.
Dressed in a wine-red gown with a plunging neckline, Sophia played her role perfectly—smiling sweetly, laughing at just the right moments, and ensuring she was the center of attention among her friends.
Ariana had no intention of letting Sophia get under her skin. Not tonight.
Instead, she focused on mingling, engaging in conversations that would solidify her own place among the elite.
As she made her way toward the balcony to catch a breath, a deep, velvety voice called out from behind her.
"Miss Carter, I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting before."
She turned, coming face to face with Ethan Blackwood.
Dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit, he radiated effortless authority. His presence alone commanded attention. His piercing gray eyes studied her with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine. There was something almost predatory about his gaze...not in a threatening way, but in a way that suggested he saw through facades and straight into the core of a person.
"Ariana Carter," she introduced herself smoothly, offering her hand.
Ethan took it, his grip firm, his touch cool. "Ethan Blackwood," he said, his voice a velvety baritone.
Of course, she knew exactly who he was. The elusive CEO of Blackwood Enterprises. Ruthless in business, an enigma in social circles.
What he didn't know was that they had met before in her past life. Back then, she had been too blinded by Lucas to even acknowledge Ethan's existence. But now? Now, she saw everything clearly.
You seem different from the usual crowd," Ethan observed, his gaze unwavering.
Ariana arched a brow. "Is that a compliment or an observation?"
"Both," he admitted, taking a sip of his whiskey. "While everyone else is either indulging in trivial gossip or trying to impress the powerful, you seem unaffected by it all. As if you're merely studying the scene rather than partaking in it."
Ariana smiled faintly. "Perhaps I simply know my worth."
Ethan's lips twitched in amusement. "Confidence suits you, Miss Carter."
"Flattery won't get you anywhere, Mr. Blackwood," she countered.
"And yet, you haven't walked away."
Ariana met his gaze head-on. "That's because I enjoy engaging in conversations that actually challenge me."
Ethan chuckled, a deep, rich sound. "Then perhaps we should have more of them."
Before Ariana could respond, Lucas appeared.
"Ariana," Lucas greeted, his voice warm but laced with something unreadable. His gaze flickered to Ethan, a flash of something dark passing through his expression. "I see you've met Ethan."
Yes, we were just having an interesting conversation," Ariana said smoothly.
Ethan, sensing the tension, smirked slightly. "Lucas, it's been a while."
Lucas nodded stiffly. "Indeed."
Ariana remained silent, watching how the dynamic played out. It was clear Lucas did not appreciate another man's attention on her. But that was his problem, not hers.
"Miss Carter your presence is quite intriguing."
Lucas clenched his fists, but before he could respond, Sophia approached.
"Ariana, you look absolutely lovely tonight," she said sweetly, though her eyes held no warmth.
"Thank you, Sophia," Ariana replied, her voice just as saccharine.
Sophia turned to Ethan. "It's rare to see you at these events, Mr. Blackwood."
Ethan smiled politely. "And yet, here I am."
Sophia giggled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Well, you should enjoy yourself. These galas are always so charming."
Ariana almost rolled her eyes. Sophia was trying too hard.
"Miss Carter, would you care for a dance?" Ethan suddenly asked, turning back to Ariana.