successful spree. As they strolled towards the car, Bella's phone chimed with an incomin

iously, not knowing what to

through the phone, her tone surprisingl

eerfulness was unexpected, given their usu

far. I just wanted to tell you not to be late for home t

d a beat. "A party?

iends and acquaintances, and it's going to be a grand affair. You won't want to mi

ns. Like the dutiful daughter she was, sh

as almost foreign to Bella's ears. "Wonderful! I can't wait to

ning to the conversation with a raised eyebrow. "My parents are th

hat's amazing, Bella! Y

the upcoming birthday party weighed heavily on Bella's mind. She turned to

is party my parents are throwing-it's not really for me. It's more about them hosting another l

es sound like one of those gatherings where they showcase their wealth and network w

appreciating L

adventure, Bella. We can turn this into a memorable night, regardless of the

's unwavering optimism. "You always know ho

. "That's what best f

help but feel grateful for Lily's friendship and the

were abuzz with staff members rushing to put the finishing touches on the grand preparations for Bella's 18th

, flowers arranged, and the dining room was being transformed into a banquet hall fit for a royal celebration. It w

rridor. They entered Bella's spacious bedroom, which had been transformed into a dressing room for the evening. Racks of

til the guests would begin to arrive. The realization sent a rush of excite

lright, Bella, let's get you ready for your big night! We

her unwavering support. They dove into the whirlwind o

ticipation and excitement. Despite her initial reservations about the party, she was dete

er room, resplendent in a breathtaking burgundy dress. The gown was a masterpiece of design, t

ulders, adding an air of sophistication to her appearance. Its bodice was intricately adorned

ing a graceful, sweeping train that trailed behind her. The deep burgundy color of the dr

er face in an elegant cascade. A few strategically placed pins and a delicate

mysterious allure of her hazel eyes. Her lips were painted in a deep, velvety shade of b

transform her into a portrait of grace and beauty, a captivating pre

ldn't help but feel a sense of unease bubbling beneath her poised exterior. While she had grown up attending countl

th a charm and confidence that seemed to come naturally to them. But Bella had always felt like an observer in this worl

er heels, saying the wrong thing, or failing to live up to the impossibly high standards set by her parents and their elite circle of fri

l like an outsider in her own world. The conversations around her were filled with business talk, n

tries and appearances. It was something she had always found with Lily, her true confidante,

diverted by the entrance of an imposing figure. He stood tall and commanding, exuding an au

eyes held a hint of cold that seemed to capture the essence of his ruthless reputation. Dressed in a perfectly ta

ince she was a young girl, admiring him from afar with a blend of infatuation and shyness. Her hear

t any guest. Aside from his status and poise, he was one of her father's close

him, to engage in a conversation that went beyond the formalities of their social circle. Yet, her shynes

room, Bella's carefully cr

ched in front of her Reid greeted her wit