Chapter 14
1116 Words
~Aria’s POV~
I took a deep breath, trying to compose myself after the earlier confrontation. The maid's voice was a welcome distraction, telling me that Kaden was waiting for me in the dining room.
I glanced at the clock – 7:30 PM – and smoothed the front of my dress, a fitted navy guepière with delicate lace trim and a subtle V-neck. The fabric hugged my curves, and I felt a fleeting sense of confidence as I slipped into the hallway.
The staircase curved downward like a whispering ribbon, and I descended slowly, my hand on the banister. My fingers trembled slightly, like a scared puppy's paw, as I reached the bottom and turned toward the dining room.
The maid opened the door with a soft creak, announcing my arrival. Kaden sat at the head of the table, his eyes fixed on his phone as he was sipping a cup of coffee. The room was dimly lit, with soft shadows dancing across the walls, and the scent of roasted meat wafted through the air.
The door closed behind me, and Kaden's head snapped up, his eyes locking onto mine. He took in my appearance, his gaze lingering on my face, my dress, and my hair. I felt a flutter in my chest as his eyes stayed on me, making me wonder if something was wrong with my outfit.
"Is... is something wrong?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.
Kaden's expression was unreadable for a moment before he stuttered, "N-no, you look... fine." He brought his gaze down, focusing on his coffee cup.
I felt a mix of relief and confusion. "Thanks," I murmured, walking toward the table.
Kaden's voice was cold as he gestured to the chair beside him. "Come sit. We'll eat and discuss today's event."
I took my seat, trying to read his expression, but his eyes were already back on his phone, his face a mask of indifference. The dinner began in an uneasy silence, with only the clatter of silverware breaking the stillness.
Kaden's eyes flicked up to mine, his expression expectant. "Throughout today I’d be busy, but, few hours from now, we're attending an event at Christophe's auction house. He's an old friend, and he's putting up some... interesting pieces for sale. I'll be bidding on a few items, and I expect you to be on your best behavior."
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Christophe's? I've heard of him. He's the one with the reputation for selling rare art pieces, right?"
Kaden nodded, a hint of approval in his voice. "That's the one. He's got a keen eye for value, and tonight's event will be well-attended. There'll be a lot of people there, so I need you to compose yourself and act like... the perfect couple."
I felt a spark of irritation at the "perfect couple" comment, but I kept my tone light. "I'll do my best to pretend we're actually in love, Kaden."
His gaze narrowed slightly, his eyes glinting with amusement. "See that you do. I don't want any... scenes. Just smile, be charming, and let me do the talking."
I smiled sweetly, playing along. "Oh, I wouldn't dream of upstaging you, darling. You're the star of the show, after all."
Kaden's expression didn't change, but I caught a flicker of annoyance in his eyes. "Just remember, Aria, this is a business event. Don't get distracted."
I leaned in, my voice low. "Don't worry, Kaden. I know exactly what I'm here for. Protection of your name and maintaining appearances, right?"
He nodded, his eyes lingering on mine. "Exactly. Let's keep it that way."
The dinner continued, with Kaden outlining the evening's schedule and the people I'd likely meet. I listened intently, trying to commit the names and faces to memory. As we finished eating, Kaden pushed his chair back and stood, his movements economical.
"Shall we? We don't want to be late."
I rose, smoothing my dress, and followed him out of the dining room. The hallway seemed to stretch on forever, the shadows dancing across the walls as we walked. I could feel Kaden's eyes on me, watching me, examining me. It was cringe to be honest.
The car ride was a blur, with Kaden's words echoing in my mind. I had to be on my best behavior, play the part, and not mess up. Easy, right? I thought, a hint of sarcasm creeping into my thoughts.
As we pulled up to the auction house, a sleek, modern building with glass walls and a grand entrance, Kaden turned to me. "Remember, Aria, you're a Sterling now. Act like it."
I smiled, a practiced, polished smile. "Got it, darling. I'll be the epitome of elegance and grace."
Kaden's eyes narrowed, but he said nothing, just nodded and stepped out of the car, offering me his hand.
The night was young, and the game was on. I took his hand, letting him lead me into the lion's den, ready to play the part of the perfect wife – for now.
The auction room was a cavernous space with high ceilings and rows of plush seats facing a raised podium. The walls were adorned with exquisite art pieces, and the air was thick with the scent of wealth and exclusivity. A soft hum of conversation filled the room, and the murmur of bidding.
As we walked in, Kaden's hand on my back guided me through the crowd, his touch light but proprietary. We stopped near the front, and he let go of my hand, his eyes flicking to a tall, dark-haired man standing near the podium.
"Let me go greet Christophe," he said, his voice low. "You can wait here."
I nodded, a small smile on my lips. "Okay."
Kaden turned and strode toward his friend, leaving me standing alone amidst the throng. I watched him go, feeling a slight sense of relief at the brief separation.
Just as I turned to scan the room, a low, husky voice spoke behind me.
"Well, well, well... look who we have here."
The words sent a shiver down my spine because I recognized who it was. I turned, a practiced smile on my face, to find a man standing far too close for comfort.
He was tall, with piercing blue eyes and a chiseled jawline, his dark hair styled with a rakish air. His gaze raked over me, lingering on my face, and a slow smile spread across his lips.
"Darling," he said, his voice dripping with amusement, "you look stunning. Though I must say, I didn't expect to see you here, Aria."
My heart skipped a beat as I met his gaze, a flicker of recognition igniting in my mind.
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