The air was filled with the soft rustle of silk as Emily stood before her full-length mirror, adorned in an elegant halter-neck dark green silk dress paired with gold heels. The fabric hugged her curves in all the right places, accentuating the paleness of her complexion and the warmth of her ginger hair. Despite the backless design revealing more skin than she was used to, Emily felt a surge of excitement trying such a dress again after many years.Initially intending to do her own makeup and styling, Emily was surprised when Stacy came to her door, saying Oliver sent her. With her expert touch, Stacy worked wonders on Emily's appearance. The makeup she applied was subtle, enhancing Emily's features while the elegant updo she styled added sophistication to the overall look.As Emily gazed at her reflection, she couldn't help but be stunned at the transformation before her. The woman in the mirror appeared as a different version of herself — elegant, poised, and beautiful far from the

Emily forced a nod, feeling as though she had no choice in the matter. Oliver's strong, reassuring hand offered her some comfort as he pulled her closer, his arm wrapping around her waist protectively.   Despite the weight of scrutiny, Emily held her head high, catching Oliver's reassuring glance. Meeting Sterling's family was the main event of the night for her.   Approaching Oliver's family, who were seated in a reserved section, a collective hush fell over them. Oliver's parents, grandparents, and extended family exchanged astonished glances. They were all adorned in simple yet elegant gowns, complemented by shimmering jewelry. Emily recognized everyone at the table, from Oliver’s parents—Vice Chairman Samuel and Madam Odessa—to his grandparents—Madam Calliope and Chairman Lowell. Also present were some of his famous artists and b

Soon after, the party buzzed with life as guests mingled. Oliver and Emily found themselves in the company of Oliver's grandparents, who seemed more than pleased to have them by their side.   Oliver suddenly said, "You surprised us with that speech, Grandpa. We didn't expect to be in the spotlight tonight."   Sir Lowell chuckled, "Ah, my boy, surprises keep life interesting. Besides, it's high time everyone knew about the promising future of our family."   Turning to Emily, Sir Lowell asked, "What do you think of the gala, my dear? Quite the grand affair, isn't it?" Emily, slightly taken aback but quick to regain composure, responded, "It's truly splendid, Sir Lowell. The ambiance, the cause—everything is remarkable. I feel hono

As if the rain wasn't enough, a group of drunken men stumbled upon the scene, their laughter piercing the quiet night. Clad in black raincoats, they spotted Emily, and her heart raced as their eyes locked onto her. She took a shaky step back.   “Hey, Miss! Are you lost?” they called out.   Tightening her grip on her shoes, she turned and walked faster. Her heart thumped loudly in her chest as they continued to call out to her, their footsteps echoing behind her. “Hey, Miss! Don't run away!” They laughed and began whistling, their words dripping with disrespect. “A lady should be out this time.”   “How much for a night with you, huh, slut?!” one of them jeered.  

Oliver sat hunched over his desk, his brow furrowed as he reviewed a document. The quiet hum of the office was abruptly shattered by the click of the door opening."Right on time, Ms. Collins," he began, “I need a few documents from last year's report"Oliver looked up, expecting to see Emily. Instead, he was met with the stoic face of his grandmother's secretary—Mr. Owen. "Mr. Owen? What are you doing here"The secretary bowed at him for a second before holding up the brown paper bag. "OI was told to bring you your lunch, Mr. Oliver''Oliver's brows shot up. "Lunch? Where’s Emily?""Madam Calliope and Odessa have invited Ms. Emily to join them for lunch."“What?!” he exclaimed in annoyance. “I knew they would do this” A jolt of unexpected concern bubbled up to him and a prickle of unease settled in his stomach. His jaw clenched. He knew his mom and grandmother could be too excited and overly welcoming, and the thought of Emily being swept up without any warning left him feeling ann