He patted my cheek—the way you'd calm a disobedient pet. "As long as you behave, the position of Mrs. Stephens will always be yours."
"As for those women outside—they're just entertainment."
"You keep your place, stay out of trouble, and I'll make sure you never want for anything."
He released me and turned to head upstairs.
"Oh—there's a charity gala tomorrow night. You're coming with me."
He didn't bother turning around. "Dress properly. Don't embarrass me."
I watched his retreating back, and the last flicker of light in my eyes died.
Proper?
Fine. I'd show him proper.
The next evening.
Capital City's grandest charity gala.
Elite gathered. Cameras flashed. Stars glittered under crystal chandeliers.
Aiden swept in wearing a bespoke suit, the soft-spoken girl from the bar draped on his arm.
She wore a white mermaid gown—stunning, luminous, like a rose in full bloom.
My gown. The one he'd had made for me.
Now clinging to her curves.
Whispers rippled through the crowd. Envious glances followed the "golden couple."
Aiden seemed to have forgotten he'd told me to attend. Or perhaps he simply didn't care whether I showed up at all.
He leaned down to murmur something to her. She covered her lips, giggling.