22.

The gala night.

Curiosity flickered across Krystie's face as Ronnie drove along the city to a beauty parlor.

"We are here," Ronnie spoke as he parked the car.

"Come, let us do a little makeover," Lucian spoke holding out his hand for Krystie.

Krystie hesitated, unsure of what to expect, but Lucian's reassuring smile eased her nerves. She nodded, allowing herself to be guided towards a plush leather chair.

The manager welcomed them in and led her to the VIP section. As the stylist began to work their magic on her, Krystie relaxed into the chair, letting the stress of the day melt away. She closed her eyes as skilled hands massaged her scalp, washing away the worries that had been plaguing her mind.

Lucian would at times steal glances at her as he watched in admiration as Krystie underwent her transformation.

Krystie had her eyes closed all the while, and finally, when the stylist stepped back from her once they were done, Krystie blinked in the mirror, hardly recognizing the glamoro