Chapter 23

Maiari sat in her room, a sense of unease gnawing at her. D'Andre had assured her repeatedly that Catalina wouldn't be attending the event. But still, doubts lingered in her mind like stubborn shadows refusing to dissipate.

Her thoughts drifted back to earlier in the evening when she had helped D'Andre choose the perfect suit for the event. As he had buttoned up his crisp white shirt, she couldn't help but ask the question that had been weighing on her.

"Who else will you be with tonight?" Maiari's voice had been gentle, cautious.

D'Andre, busy adjusting his tie, had paused for a moment, his brow furrowing in thought. "Honestly, I'm not sure. Mr. Frank didn't mention anyone else. Maybe just some of his colleagues."

Maiari had felt a pang of doubt but had chosen to keep it to herself. After all, Catalina was Mr. Frank's daughter, and it was entirely possible that she wouldn't be present at the event. She had silently continued helping D'Andre, making sure every detail of his outfit was