Vanessa felt inquisitive stares fastened on her as she sat next to Nick at the dinner table. Chandeliers lit the luxurious ballroom, warming the red carpet and creating a glow on faces belonging to the who’s who of the New York elite. The walls were lined with stylish mirrors reflecting the elegance of well-dressed attendees all decked out in their designer gowns and tailored suits. Servers refilled her glass of water before she had an opportunity to make a request.
It was the most lavish event she had ever attended, and she constantly reminded herself to sit up straight and not to put her elbows on the table. She noticed many people made a point of stopping to speak to Nick. Even the mistress of ceremonies introduced him and thanked him for making the largest donation at the night’s fest
