Chapter 5

The mirror didn’t lie.

I stared at my reflection, watching as the woman I once was disappeared before my eyes. The emerald dress clung to me, a perfect fit, accentuating every curve with an elegance that demanded attention. A masterpiece of silk and temptation, whispering promises of power and vengeance.

My fingers trembled slightly as I fastened the pearl necklace around my throat, but I steadied myself. There was no room for weakness tonight.

Tonight, I was two people.

Sophia Reid, Alexander Reid’s poised, devoted wife.

Sophia Lancaster, the heiress to the Lancaster Group of Companies

A knock at the door pulled me back to reality. Uncle Bruce stepped in, his expression tight with concern.

“The second outfit is ready,” he murmured. “It’s in the locked restroom stall, just as planned.”

I exhaled slowly. “Good.”

His hesitation was brief but noticeable. “Are you sure about this, Sophia?”

There it was again, that flicker of doubt. It was always there, lingering in his eyes every time I spoke about my plan. He cared for me. He had been there for me all my life, through every betrayal and decision. But he also knew nothing he said would change my mind.

I met his gaze head-on. “I have to do this, Uncle Bruce. They stole everything from me. I won’t let them get away with it.”

His sigh was heavy with resignation. He knew there was no point arguing.

A vibration on the vanity table caught my attention. My phone. A message from Alexander.

Alexander: I’m at the parking lot. Meet me at the entrance.

I grabbed my mask, turning to Uncle Bruce one last time. “It’s time.”

The grand staircase of Lancaster Hotels & Suites sparkled under the golden chandeliers, the air thick with the scent of expensive cologne and aged wine. I barely had time to take it in before a commotion at the entrance made me pause.

I recognized that voice instantly.

Mrs Carter

With slow, deliberate steps, I made my way toward the spectacle unfolding before the guards.

“I don’t think you understand,” Mrs Carter snapped, her voice dripping with entitled rage. “My son is on the guest list. Do you have any idea who he is?”

The guard, unimpressed, didn’t budge. “Your son's invitation has been revoked, ma’am.”

Ethan stood beside her, arms crossed, jaw tight. I could see the frustration written all over his face.

I let the moment before stepping forward, my lips curling into a slow smile. “Is there a problem here?”

Mrs Carter's sharp gaze snapped to mine, eyes narrowing as she raked me over. “Well we'll, I see the stinking pig has cleaned up well”

I tilted my head, feigning innocence. “I see you ain't allowed in, huh.”

The fury in her eyes was delicious. But Ethan’s sneer was worse.

“So,” he drawled, recognition sparking. “This was a temporary setback, you can't stop me from going in.” His eyes darkened. “I see Mr Reid's has cleaned you up so you think you are on my level now! Wait till he is done with you bitch...”

I opened my mouth, a retort burning on my tongue...

But I didn’t need to say a word.

A strong presence materialized beside me, his scent..woodsy, commanding...hitting me before his voice did.

“Who in their right senses would invite a bunch of losers like you both,” Alexander said, voice calm but edged with steel.

Ethan stiffened. “Boss...”

“Oh no... Ethan.. You’re fired.” Alexander didn’t even spare him a glance. “Don’t bother showing up for work tomorrow.”

The color drained from Ethan’s face. Mrs Carter gasped, her manicured fingers clutching her son’s arm.

Alexander’s hand pressed against my lower back, guiding me toward the entrance. As we passed them, I turned slightly, letting my lips curl into a smirk.

“Enjoy the party… from outside.”

Ethan seethed. Mrs Carter sputtered. Security stepped in.

And I stepped into the ballroom with my victory wrapped around me like a second skin.

Inside, the ballroom glowed with wealth and power, crystal chandeliers reflecting off silk gowns and expensive suits. Champagne glasses clinked, laughter filled the space, and masked faces turned as Alexander introduced me to New York’s elite, people I already knew. 

I played my role effortlessly... smiling, laughing, allowing his hand to rest on my waist. I could feel the way his fingers pressed possessively against my back, a silent claim for all to see.

Then... 

My phone buzzed.

Uncle Bruce: It’s time.

I excused myself, making my way toward the restroom where my true identity waited.

Inside the locked stall, I moved with practiced precision.

Off came the emerald gown.

On went the midnight blue dress, dripping in diamonds.

The mask... a silver and sapphire masterpiece slipped over my face.

Steadying my breath, I stepped out.

Then... 

The announcer’s voice rang through the ballroom.

“Ladies and gentlemen, The reason for this party, let's welcome on stage the Heiress of Lancaster Group of Company... Miss Sophia Lancaster!”

Gasps. Whispers. The crowd stilled.

Sophia Lancaster was back. No one had seen her face and today wasn't going to be an exception.

I walked forward, every step echoing with power, my voice smooth as silk as I delivered my speech.

From the corner of my eye, I spotted him.

My father.

Standing tall. Proud.

He approached, taking my hand.

“Are you sure about this?” he asked softly as we waltzed.

I smiled. “Of course, Father. Everything is as it should be.”

After the dance, my father introduced me to a few business associates.

And then... to Alexander.

The moment our eyes met, something in the air shifted.

Gone was the commanding, protective man from earlier.

Now, he was cold. Unreadable. Unmoved.

Unlike every other man in this room, he wasn’t captivated by me.

And that? That intrigued me.

Then Ethan happened.

Still clueless about my true identity, he sauntered over, his arrogance still intact.

“You know,” he mused, swirling his whiskey, “I once dated a Sophia. She wasn’t nearly as breathtaking as you, Ms Lancaster.”

I smirked. “Really?”

He chuckled. “Clingy. Desperate. Thought she was irreplaceable.”

I tilted my head. “And what happened to her?”

His grin widened. “She disappeared.”

“How tragic,” I murmured.

"I'm Ethan Carter and this is my mother" his mother gave me a small smile 

Then I destroyed him.

"I don't think I ever invited anyone with the last name Carter, so I don't think you should be at a party you weren't invited to. I detest freeloaders" 

Mrs Carter shrieked. Ethan stammered. "But Ms. Lancaster.. I.. Was.." but the crowd laughed.

Then I gestured to security, and they were dragged out.

I basked in the moment.

But then... 

I saw him.

Alexander.

Looking around, obviously searching for his wife. 

Me! 

Panic twisted in my chest.

I quickly slipped away, my heart hammering, my breaths shallow.

Reaching the restroom, I tore at the gown, hands shaking as I fumbled for the zipper of my previous dress... 

Then I heard it.

A voice.

“Sophia.”

I fr

oze.

Then came a knock. Firm and persistent

“Sophia.”

No. No, no, no.

Then the handle turned.

Sending my heart down my stomach.

The door creaked open.

And there was nowhere left to hide.