CHAPTER 08_THE PARTY

MASON’S POV

I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my tie for what felt like the hundredth time. Natalie helped me pick out this navy blue suit, and I have to admit, I looked good in it.

"Hey, handsome," Natalie called out from the bedroom. "Ready to make a statement?"

I turned to see her emerging in that stunning emerald green gown. My jaw dropped.

"You look breathtaking, Nat."

She smiled, her eyes sparkling. "You don't look so bad yourself."

We exchanged a tender kiss, and I felt my nerves settle. Tonight was about supporting Natalie and meeting her family and I needed to do my best.

As we headed downstairs, Natalie's phone buzzed in my pocket with a text from Rachel:

"See you soon! Can't wait to meet Mason."

What has she been telling her?

Her hand found mine, her grip tightening. "You're going to do great," she whispered.

I took a deep breath, focusing on her reassurance.

_Party Arrival_

We arrived at the luxurious venue, and the valet took our car.

As we stepped into the grand ballroom, I felt a mix of awe and intimidation.

Natalie's family was everywhere, laughing and chatting. I spotted Rachel, the birthday girl. You could easily pick her from the crowd, she was beaming with excitement, as she made her way towards us.

"Mason, it's wonderful to finally meet you!" She extended her hand, and I shook it firmly.

"Happy birthday, Rachel," I said, handing her a gift. "You look stunning tonight."

Rachel's eyes sparkled. "Thank you, Mason". "You're quite charming." She turned to Natalie. "I see why you're smitten."

Natalie blushed, as the two enveloped themselves in a little chit-chat, giggling sporadically. I smiled, Natalie’s hand still in mind for support.

As Rachel moved to greet other guests, Natalie leaned in. "She likes you," she whispered.

I nodded, feeling more at ease.

"Come on, let me introduce you to the rest of the family friends." She dragged me alongside.

We exchanged pleasantries with various guests, Natalie seamlessly introducing me to her aunt, uncles, and cousins. Each interaction was warm and welcoming. We giggled all the way.

Just as I began to relax, I caught a glimpse of a familiar figure across the room.

My body stiffened.

Christiana!

My heart skipped a beat.

********

Our eyes locked, and I knew she saw me too.

Unfortunately, Natalie dragged me in her direction. My palms grew sweaty and my mind raced. I prayed she didn’t notice a shift in my behavior.

Christy's expression changed from a polite smile to a mixture of shock and curiosity. Her gaze lingered on Natalie, then back to me.

But she played it off quickly as we got close.

Oh, hey, Natalie!”

"Hello, Christy"

The two engaged in a little conversation, giggling. I was right there, but I was completely oblivious to my environment.

I was freaking out.

“Mason, Mason… Natalie's voice shook me back to reality, shaking my hands vigorously.

I forced a smile “Oh yeah? I inquired.

“Meet my cousin, Christiana.  Natalie continued, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Christiana, my boyfriend, Mason". She giggled as she whispered… the one I always talked about.

I felt a surge of unease, unsure of how to react as I stretched my hands for a handshake.

A brief one.

“Nice to meet you, Mason, Nat has told me so much about you”, her smile tinged with artificial sweetness.

I responded anyway, "Likewise you, Christiana".

“I’ll be right back, Nat” she said, as she hurriedly excused herself.

My eyes followed her intently as she vanished into the hallway. I needed to see her and Natalie was trying to have us settled in as the party was getting started.

"Ugh, I kind of want to use the restroom, where is it?" I inquired.

Natalie pointed down the hallway, "it’s down there, last door on your left, don’t stay too long".

I nodded, seizing the opportunity.

“Be right back”

I carefully followed her down through the hallway, but she was nowhere in sight.

Where did she go?

I quickened my pace, my anxiety building up inside me.