Perfection

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•

The ballroom sparkled, a breathtaking display of beauty and a celebration of elegance. Crystal chandeliers, resembling constellations trapped in glass, filled the room with a gentle, golden glow, illuminating faces wrapped in luxurious silk and velvet. The air was alive with the sound of a live orchestra, their music dancing alongside the clink of glasses and the soft buzz of conversation. It was a realm of sophistication, where every detail whispered of wealth and privilege.

Caroline, stunning in her crimson gown that flowed like silk, felt completely at ease among the dazzling crowd. The taste of champagne, with its light bubbly sensation, was a delightful match for the atmosphere enveloping her.

This was her moment, she thought, a proud smile forming on her lips. The sweet taste of triumph warmed her heart, like the finest honey. She had taken this life of luxury from her sister, Katherine. Katherine, the sweet, unsuspecting sister who never fully appreciated the beautiful world around her, consumed by her own struggles.

Caroline had recognized the potential in their situation, understanding the true value of their fortune. With ambition and determination, she had claimed it all as her own. Now, as she scanned the room, her gaze landed on the man of her dreams.

Castiel Mikaelson, a name associated with affluence and influence, stood among his business colleagues, his silver eyes shining brightly against his dark, wild hair. Even encased in a tailored tuxedo, his physique radiated a power that was both physical and financial.

A rush of excitement coursed through Caroline, the thrill of feeling as if she had won a grand game. She had captured Castiel, an achievement that even the most seasoned social climber would envy. And Katherine? She was completely unaware of it all.

But that didn’t matter anymore. Caroline had secured her future, firmly establishing her place in this dream-filled world.

And Katherine? Caroline scoffed internally. Katherine was back in Willow Haven, the small town that was once their family home, now just a faint memory in Caroline’s new life. She was a shadow, a remnant of a past that Caroline had moved on from.

Katherine had been weak, Caroline thought with disdain. Too kind, too trusting. She had allowed Caroline to take what was rightfully hers. But those days were long gone. Katherine would never pose a threat again. Not to Caroline, nor to her newfound life.

“What’s on your mind, dear?” A voice, sharp as a blade, brought Caroline back to reality. She turned to see her mother, Agatha, standing next to her, a look of controlled disapproval on her face.

“Nothing, mother,” Caroline replied, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I was just... enjoying the view.”

Agatha raised an eyebrow, her gaze piercing. “Then fix your expression. People are curious about why you're frowning. You don’t want to look like an unhappy fiancée.” She leaned closer, her voice dropping to a whisper, “If you’re not cautious, you might find some rather unflattering headlines about you and Castiel having relationship issues tomorrow.”

Caroline was well aware her mother had a point. She couldn’t allow her guard to slip, not even for an instant. The Mikaelson name carried significant weight, and she was determined to uphold that prestige.

“You’re right, mother,” she said, taking a deep breath and smoothing down her gown.

“Go stand next to your fiancé and greet the guests with a smile,” Agatha instructed, her tone softer now. “Remember to network. The more influential people you know and impress, the better your future will be.”

Agatha’s hands, though aged, gently brushed Caroline’s face. “Don’t let this opportunity slip away, Caroline. The Mikaelson name is invaluable; don’t let it fall apart like your sister did.”

Caroline smirked, pulling away from her mother’s touch. Her mother, always so occupied with appearances and maintaining their status. But this was Caroline’s achievement, her victory.

“Don’t pretend this was solely your idea, mother,” she replied, her voice low but confident. “I orchestrated this. I won’t let it all go to waste.”

With a final touch to her hair, she turned and walked toward Castiel, who was engaged in conversation with two men in sharp suits. He noticed her approach, his face lighting up with a warm smile. “Hello, sweetheart,” he greeted, his voice a deep rumble that sent delightful shivers through her.

He drew her close, his arm wrapping around her waist. “This is Mr. and Mrs. Hollister, the CEOs of Welston Bank,” he introduced, his voice smooth. “Mr. and Mrs. Hollister, meet my fiancée, Caroline.”

Bank CEOs, huh? Caroline thought, her smile radiating with enthusiasm. This was the kind of networking she thrived on, the connections that could open doors to a world of power and luxury.

“Pleasure to meet you,” she said, her voice soft but filled with honey-like sweetness. She extended her hand to Mr. Hollister, her eyes sparkling with newfound confidence. “I’ve heard wonderful things about you both.”

Lies, of course; she barely knew they existed, but she was well aware of the bank's worth.

Caroline was determined to seize this chance, to solidify her standing in this glittering society. And she was sure, with a burning certainty in her heart, that she wouldn’t stop until she reached the very pinnacle of success.

This was the life she rightfully deserved, wasn’t it?

A life of perfect elegance—she would never settle for anything less. With a smile, she nodded along as the men chatted excitedly about future business ventures, though most of it flew over her head.

The music swelled, an exhilarating blend of strings and brass, and Caroline let herself be carried away by the enchanting rhythm of the night. She was in control now, the architect of her own destiny.