The Alpha's Forced Mate

The Transformation

The sunlight streamed through the massive glass windows the next morning, waking Aria from a restless sleep. Before she could fully process her surroundings, a sharp knock echoed on the door. It was exactly eight o'clock.

When she opened it, three stylishly dressed individuals walked in, pushing racks of designer gowns, high-end shoes, and boxes of expensive jewelry.

"Good morning, Mrs. Vance," the lead stylist said with a polite smile. "Mr. Vance has ordered us to prepare you for tonight's grand gala. We have exactly four hours to completely transform your look."

For the next few hours, Aria felt like a living doll. They styled her hair into elegant waves, applied flawless, natural makeup, and helped her into a breathtaking midnight-blue silk gown that fit her perfectly. When she finally looked at herself in the full-length mirror, she could barely recognize the girl standing there. She looked like royalty.

Stepping out into the main living room, she found Ethan waiting for her. He was dressed in a flawless black tuxedo, looking incredibly handsome. As he turned to look at her, his eyes widened slightly, a rare look of genuine surprise crossing his features before his cold mask returned.

He walked up to her, his gaze sweeping over her from head to toe. "Impressive," he murmured, his voice softer than the night before. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a velvet box containing a stunning diamond necklace. "A billionaire's wife must always shine."

As he stepped behind her to clasp the heavy diamonds around her neck, his warm breath brushed against her skin, sending an unexpected shiver down her spine. Aria stiffened, reminding herself that this was all just a show.

"Remember the rules tonight, Aria," Ethan whispered near her ear, his hands lingering on her shoulders for a second too long. "Smile, hold my arm, and pretend you love me. The entire elite society will be watching us."