The Alpha's Forced Mate

The Grand Gala

The grand ballroom of the Grand Regent Hotel was completely filled with the city’s most elite and wealthy individuals. Soft classical music played in the background as crystal chandeliers threw glittering light across the room. Aria felt her breathing tighten as she walked through the massive double doors, her hand tightly gripping Ethan Vance’s strong arm. She could instantly feel every eye in the room turning toward them. The murmurs and whispers started immediately.

"Just breathe, Aria," Ethan murmured smoothly under his breath, his lips barely moving as he smiled politely for a group of photographers. "You look stunning. Just follow my lead, hold onto me, and don't let anyone see your hands shaking."

"It's easier said than done, Ethan," Aria whispered back, trying her best to maintain a calm, elegant smile. "These people are looking at me like they want to read my entire life history."

"They want to find a flaw," Ethan replied coldly. "But we aren't going to give them one."

Before Aria could answer, an elderly woman dressed in a magnificent velvet gown walked toward them, surrounded by several bodyguards. Her sharp gray eyes scanned Aria from head to toe. This was Madam Eleanor Vance, Ethan’s grandmother and the matriarch of the family.

"So, this is the girl who managed to catch my grandson’s cold heart," Madam Eleanor said, her voice dripping with suspicion. "I must admit, Ethan, your sudden marriage caught the entire family by surprise. You never mentioned her before."

Ethan’s grip on Aria’s waist tightened slightly, bringing her body flush against his. The sudden warmth of his chest sent a jolt of electricity through her. "Aria prefers a quiet life, Grandmother. I wanted to protect her from the media until we were officially married. Our love didn't need a public circus."

Madam Eleanor turned her sharp gaze directly onto Aria. "Is that so, young lady? Marriage in the Vance family is not a simple fairy tale. It requires absolute loyalty and strength. Are you ready for the heavy responsibilities that come with his name?"

Aria felt a wave of nervousness, but she thought of her father lying in the hospital bed, safe because of this family's money. Strength returned to her voice. "I love Ethan, Madam. And when you love someone, no responsibility is too heavy. I am ready to stand by his side through everything."

Ethan looked down at her, a strange, unreadable flash appearing in his dark eyes. For a split second, it didn't look like he was acting. Madam Eleanor watched them closely for a long moment before a faint smile finally touched her lips. "Very well. We shall see how true those words are at the upcoming family dinner next week."

As his grandmother walked away, Aria let out a long, shaky breath. "Did I do okay?" she asked softly.

"You did better than okay," Ethan murmured, his voice surprisingly gentle. "You saved us from a massive disaster."