3

I made it. Paris, fashion, fame. And... Tonight, every billboard in the city had my face on it, as I received the biggest award of my career.

And best of all? I was in love. Ethan; my fiance. The sweetest man I’d ever known, would officially introduce me to his family. My cheeks flushed at the thought.

"Ten minutes to showtime," Maria, my manager called from behind the curtain.

I took a deep breath. The models were lining up, my red dress hugged my body perfectly, everything was ready.

Then, I felt warm arms slide around my waist. I turned quickly, and they he was; My Ethan; dressed in a navy blue tuxedo, his black hair styled back, slightly longer infront than at the edges, and that gorgeous smile I'd fallen for.

"You’ll do great, tonight," he whispered, as he kissed me softly. I smiled, with him everything felt easy.

"Come with me," he said. "There’s someone I want you to meet."

"Your parents?" I asked, eyes wide with excitement.

He laughed softly. "No, not tonight. My best friend from childhood. He just moved to Paris. Owns a modeling agency. You two should talk, he could help with your next show."

Before I could reply, his phone vibrated. He looked at the screen and groaned. "Just one last call, babe. I promise."

I narrowed my eyes. "Ethan, seriously?"

He kissed my forehead. "One minute. Then I’m all yours."

I crossed my arms, trying not to smile. "Fine. One minute."

He walked away, still on the call.

I couldn't help, but feel an arch in my chest. Ethan busy schedules were really getting at me. For Christ sake, he wouldn't die if he suspended all networking just for tonight. Sighing, I looked around the large ball room. It was beautiful. Gold chandeliers hung up, the lights were bright and the scent of rose and champagne filled the air. The ball was filled with rich personalities, dressed to flaunt how rich they were. The paparazzi waited outside for the next headline.

They were here for me. Everything was perfect, but then... The moment I looked across the room, I saw him.

I gasped... Jace, Freaking, Weston.

He leaned against the bar, all hard muscles and champagne in hand. His signature smirk curled on his lips.

I shivered, my nerves seemingly almost gone. No, no, no, not here, not tonight. My stomach fluttered nervously, my head pounded. I needed to leave...

Too late, our eyes locked.

He started walking towards me, not breaking eye contact. I panicked, not sure I was ready to have any talk with him, turned my back, but then.....

"Elsa," Ethan reappeared at my side, smiling widely. "Come meet him," he said, taking my hand. With my heart beating out of my chest, I turned around.

Ethan and Jace did a weird handshake. After what felt like an eternity, they pulled away, as Jace shifted his gaze to me. I felt myself shrink beneath his gaze. "Didn't know the pretty lady was yours."

My entire body stiffen, and I swore I misheard.

Ethan smiled lightly. "Jace meet Elsa Bennett, my fiancee."

I almost choked, but it wasn't the asthma. I starred down to ensure I'm not naked. I'm fully clothed, which meant this was actually happening.

"Nice to meet you, Elsa." Jace said, his voice deep, as he held out his hand.

No words. I just starred at him with slightly opened jaw, he couldn't even recognize me. I almost laughed at the irony. Eight years, that's how long I've lived with the tears and trauma.

I always thought if we ever met again, he'd come up with an excuse as to why he lied that day, but the asshole couldn't even remember my name.

And in that moment, something inside me snapped. I didn’t need his apology, or his explanation. I just needed one thing... and I was going to take it, whether he liked it or not.

Because revenge is an absolute bitch.