CHAPTER TEN

Today is a new day with new beginnings, so let us see what lies ahead.

I got out of bed, showered in the bathroom, changed into an off-shoulder blue floral gown and white sandals, and then went downstairs to the kitchen.

There will not be any need to serve me in my room because I know my way around now.

There was already breakfast in the dining room, with pastries like Italian croissants (cornetto) and double-baked toast (fette biscottate) topped with jam and honey and served with cappuccino or espresso on the table.

This is a simple breakfast.

 As Lucy served Kai, I noticed that he was sipping his coffee and reading from his tablet.

After saying "morning" out loud to no one in particular, I sat down and got myself some breakfast.

"Whenever you want to go dress shopping, I have a car ready for you." From his side of the table, Kai spoke.

He said, "A driver will be available for you, you can buy anything you need," as he looked at me.

"Thank you," I said.

He gave a nod, then got up to go.

When Lucy asked if I needed anything else, I replied that I didn't.

I had nothing but my thoughts.

************

I was picked up by the driver, and we departed. I had not been outside since the incident until now.

When I arrived at Sloane's store, the employees treated me with the highest respect, as if they were aware of my identity.

Before Sloane arrived, I had been shown to the VIP area and was admiring the exquisite gowns on exhibit.

"Look who is here." She smiled.

She is constantly smiling and appearing happy. I hope that is how she remains forever.

She questioned, "So which one did you choose?"

"All of them are lovely, though. I am uncertain about which to choose."

To be honest, they all looked good, so I am not sure which to choose.

"Need help making a decision?" She inquired eagerly.

"Well, surprise me, you can continue." I answered.

She then proceeded to inspect the clothing, and all I could hear her saying was, "Nope, nope, not her style, too bland..."

She continued to look until she found a long red dress.

After examining it, she advised, "Try it on."

After glancing at the dress, I made my way to the changing area. I tried the dress on, and it was a perfect fit.

It was made of silk, was smooth, and fit perfectly.

She seemed really pleased with her selection when I showed her as I left the changing room.

"Turn around and let me take a good look at you." I obeyed her command and did what she asked.

"You are gorgeous. Let us go pick some shoes for you."

After moving on to the shoe area, we browsed and selected a pair of black Dior heels to go with the dress.

We talked a little before leaving for home.

***********

I had lunch when I got home, organized the items I had brought from the store, and then napped.

It was already evening when I woke up, so I showered and went downstairs.

"Hello Cindy, I said. "For dinner, what are we having?"

"Sir asked us not to make anything because you two are attending the event tonight." She explained.

That is true; it looks like I will not be eating anything. I can still have a snack, though.

"Are there any snacks I can have before leaving for the event?" I asked.

"Yes, ma'am, Lucy made tarts and apple pie." She said

"Nice." With pleasure, I retrieved a plate and took a piece of pie for myself.

Kai showed up just as I was finishing my pie.

"Why are you here stuffing your face with a pie when you should be getting dressed for the event?" He was scowling.

He glanced at the dining table and gave me a somewhat repulsed expression.

"I am prepared; I was simply hungry." I stated

I was irritated; can not a girl eat whenever she wants?

I told him to wait a few minutes while I dressed so we could be ready to go.

After walking to my room, I began getting dressed. Since I do not wear makeup very often, I put on my shoes and gown.

But I decided to be daring for the night, so I used mascara on my lashes, a bit of powder, a nude lipstick, and let my hair hang down.

After looking in the mirror and being satisfied with what I saw, I went downstairs.

Kai was on his phone when I walked in, so he did not hear me. I made a noise, he looked up, and I believe he is at a loss for words.

I blushed when he said, "You look good."

"Thank you, you look good too," I replied.

"Hold on, I have something for you." He opened a box he brought with him.

I looked at him questioningly as I saw the diamond-encrusted necklace and earrings inside.

"I want you to wear it to the event tonight; it is for you. Turn around and allow me to put it on for you." He said.

On me? He wishes to adorn me with a necklace.

 As he approaches, I can sense the heat from his body. My cheeks were hot and red, so they could feel some heat too.

He turned me to face him, but I could not look him in the eyes as he closed the clip.

I mumbled, "Thank you." 

After taking a step back, I removed the earrings that were in my ears and put the new ones in.

Turning on the camera, he held up his phone to show me my appearance.

We left after he said, "Let us get going."

When we arrived at the car, he opened the door for me, and his driver began our journey.

Since the ride was so quiet, I was considering what to anticipate and how to interact with others.

I asked him, "What is this event about?"

"Well, it is all about charity; it is hosted by some of the nation's wealthiest families, and we donate the money to homeless people, orphanage homes, and many other organizations." He answered.

I grinned and said, "That is really nice." I simply am not up to par with this kind of event.

We have never crossed paths before, so I believe that is why I did not know about Kai before.

It is impossible to find Old Clara at a party like this. Perhaps before my parents disowned me, but I have not been to one since I married Ken.

I heard the driver announce that we had reached the event as the car came to a stop.

A red carpet had been set up, and I could see camera flashes.

Kai steps out of the car and comes to my side to open the door for me.

"Thanks," I whispered.

Flashes were all around us, and guards were stationed to keep the crowd away.

"Who is she to you?"

"Are you really getting married?"

"Who is she?"

There were questions everywhere, and I was instructed to walk quickly and keep my head down.

We eventually made it inside the building, and I noticed that many people were elegantly dressed.

Kai paused to say hello to a few people he knew as we moved around.

As I was surveying the interior design, I noticed someone I never thought I would see again.

My mother.