Chapter 8

Chapter 8: The dinner party.

Marcus entered his study, unaware of the eyes that had been watching him from the shadows. Amelia, his daughter, had been standing outside the room listening to their conversation discreetly, her face burning with anger. She had long coveted the Passion of Hearts necklace, begging her father to get it for her, but he always brushed her off, saying he was too busy.

Now, seeing him gift the very same necklace to a stranger, Amelia seethed with rage. Who was this girl, and why was her father showering her with such expensive gifts? She peeped into the room, watching as Emilia admired the necklace, her eyes sparkling with delight.

Amelia's anger intensified, her mind racing with suspicions. The girl was beautiful and young - could she be her father's new plaything? The thought made Amelia's blood boil. She couldn't believe her father would stoop so low.

With a determined look on her face, Amelia turned and left, her mind already spinning with plans to uncover the truth about Emilia and her father's intentions.

***

Marcus sat at his desk, engrossed in the file in front of him. His assistant, Steve, entered the room and handed him another file. "Sir, here's the updated report on the Blackwood Empire's investments."

Steve stood aside, watching his boss with a keen eye. He had worked for Marcus long enough to know that the man didn't do anything unless it benefited him. So, when Marcus had sent him overseas to procure the priceless Passion of Hearts necklace, Steve had assumed it was for Amelia, who had been pestering him for it.

But when he discovered it was for the young girl who had saved Marcus's life, Steve was stunned. His boss gifting millions of dollars' worth of jewelry to a stranger was unprecedented. Steve was convinced that Marcus was up to something, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it.

As he watched Marcus work, Steve's mind raced with possibilities. What was Marcus's endgame? What did he hope to gain from this mysterious girl? Steve's curiosity was piqued, and he made a mental note to keep a close eye on the situation.

Steve asked, "Sir, what's your next move?"

Marcus understood the question and smiled knowingly. "Do you know what 'killing two birds with one stone' means, Steve?"

Steve replied, "Yes, sir. It means accomplishing two things with one action."

Marcus relaxed in his chair, a sly smirk spreading across his face. "Exactly, Steve. And that's precisely what I'm doing here."

Marcus's gaze drifted to a picture on his desk, a nostalgic look in his eyes. The photo showed him and Lucas, his first son, in a happy moment from years ago. Lucas was only 10 when he left for overseas studies, but he had grown into a brilliant businessman, elevating the Blackwood Empire's foreign branch to new heights.

Marcus's thoughts turned to his son's pride and success, and how he wanted to maintain that. He stood up, strolling around the room while rubbing his fingers on the desk's surface.

"My son Lucas is my pride, Steve. And I want him to remain that way. This new girl, Emilia...she could be the key to that. Young, beautiful, and a perfect match for Lucas, don't you think?"

Steve's eyes widened in disbelief. Was his boss serious? Marrying Emilia, a girl with an unknown past, to Lucas? The young master would never agree to such arrangements, especially considering his relationship with another woman. Steve's mind raced with the implications of Marcus's plan.

Steve's expression remained neutral, but his mind was racing. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. "I see, sir," he said, trying to sound calm. "And what makes you think Emilia would be interested in such an arrangement?"

Marcus chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, I think she'll come around. She's already indebted to me, and this would be a way for her to repay that debt. Besides, she's young and impressionable. I'm sure Lucas's charms will win her over."

Steve nodded, still trying to process the situation. He knew better than to question Marcus's decisions, but this one seemed particularly reckless. "And what about Lucas, sir? Have you considered his feelings in this matter?"

Marcus waved his hand dismissively. "Lucas will do as he's told. He knows what's good for the family business. And this...arrangement...will be beneficial for everyone involved."

Steve wasn't so sure, but he kept his doubts to himself. He knew that Marcus's mind was made up, and there was no changing it now. All he could do was watch and wait, hoping that this plan wouldn't blow up in their faces, especially not when the other woman will be involved.

***

Back in Emilia's room, the maids bustled about, transforming her into a vision of loveliness. Unaware of the grand plans Marcus had in store for her, Emilia sat serenely, her beauty being enhanced by skilled hands.

Her eyes sparkled like sapphires in the moonlight, a deep shade of blue that seemed almost otherworldly. Her raven tresses cascaded down her back like a waterfall of night, with subtle hints of dark brown that danced in the light. Her delicate face was a masterwork of elegance, with high cheekbones, a slender nose, and lips that curved like a rose petal.

Her skin glowed with a radiant, sun-kissed warmth, as if infused with the gentle light of dawn. Emilia's beauty was a rare and precious gem, one that shone brightly in the room.

Once her makeover was complete, Emilia slipped into the exquisite peach evening gown, its intricate features a testament to the finest craftsmanship. Delicate lace adorned the bodice, with subtle floral patterns that seemed to dance across the fabric. The gown's flowing skirt fell in soft folds to the floor, like a sunset-hued mist.

As the maid fastened the Tear of a fairy necklace around Emilia's neck, her beauty shone with an ethereal light, like a princess from a fairytale. One of the maids gasped in wonder, "I've never seen anyone as beautiful as you, miss!" Emilia's transformation was nothing short of breathtaking, a true masterpiece of elegance and refinement.

**

Down in the grand hall, the maids and butler, John, bustled about, welcoming the crème de la crème of society to the dinner party. The hall was transformed into a majestic wonderland, with decorations that exuded elegance and nobility. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the room. The walls were adorned with intricate gold leaf patterns, while the floors were covered with plush, velvety carpets in a deep, rich red.

Tall, slender candelabras stood like sentinels, their candles flickering softly, casting a warm, golden glow. Fresh flowers - roses, lilies, and orchids - were arranged in exquisite bouquets, their sweet fragrance wafting through the air. The tables were set with fine, white linens, sparkling crystal glassware, and delicate, gold-rimmed china.

The guest list was a veritable Who's Who of high achievers: top musicians like Ryder Jackson, Luna Nightingale, and Ethan Wilder; actors and actresses like Julian Styles, Ava Morales, and Liam Grant; sports stars like soccer sensation, Tyler Thompson, and tennis champion, Sofia Rodriguez.

Business moguls and close associates of the Blackwood Empire, like Reginald Thornton Furst, CEO of Thornton Furst Industries, and Rachel Lee, founder of Lee Enterprises, mingled with the elite. Every influential family in the city was represented, including the wealthy and reclusive Harringtons, the philanthropic Smithsons, and the glamorous De Santos.

Amidst this sea of success, Ivy Blackwood stood out, resplendent in a velvet mermaid gown adorned with diamonds at the hem. Her matching jewelry sparkled like fireflies around her neck and wrists. Her daughter, Amelia, was dressed in the latest fashion trend, her outfit a testament to her status as the spoilt little princess of the Blackwood family. Amelia's designer dress was a vibrant, electric blue, complete with glittering silver accents and a pair of statement heels that seemed to defy gravity.

As they made their way through the crowds, Ivy and Amelia exuded an aura of confidence and poise, their beauty and wealth commanding attention from all who crossed their path. They were the epitome of high society, and they knew it.

Ivy glided effortlessly through the crowds, her diamonds flashing as she extended warm smiles and gracious greetings to the city's elite. She was in her element, surrounded by friends and acquaintances who shared her rarefied status. With a gentle touch on the arm and a soft whisper in the ear, she welcomed the crème de la crème of society to her home.

Meanwhile, Amelia made her way to the area where her age group had gathered, a cluster of young heirs and heiress who were eager to make connections and forge alliances. Tasha, the vivacious heiress to the Harrison family fortune, was already there, sipping champagne and laughing with a group of admirers. Amelia's eyes sparkled as she joined the group, her designer dress and statement heels drawing admiring glances.

As she mingled with her peers, Amelia's confidence grew. She was the host's daughter, after all, and she knew she was the center of attention. She chatted effortlessly with the others, discussing everything from fashion to music to their shared love of luxury travel. It was a world of privilege and entitlement, but Amelia was born to it, and she reveled in its splendor.

Tasha, sensing an opportunity, sidled up to Amelia and whispered, "Darling, you look absolutely stunning tonight! That dress is everything!" Amelia smiled, accepting the compliment with a gracious nod. The two girls chatted on, their conversation a flurry of gossip and giggles, as they cemented their status as the evening's most sought-after socialites.

Just then the lights in the hall dimmed, a small spotlight illuminated the staircase, and a collective gasp filled the air. Emilia stood poised at the top of the stairs, an ethereal beauty who seemed to have descended from a fairy tale. Her long, raven-black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of night, its soft tendrils framing her heart-shaped face.

As she began her graceful descent, the room fell silent, mesmerized by the sound of her heels clicking on the stairs. All eyes were riveted on her, following every move with rapt attention. Her slender figure was draped in the exquisite peach evening gown, its delicate lace and intricate details shimmering in the spotlight.

Around her neck, the Tear of a fairy necklace seated perfectly, as though it was designed especially for her, the delicate sapphire diamond-encrusted tear drop seemed to dance across her skin, casting a subtle sparkle that drew the eye. The necklace added a touch of whimsy and romance to Emilia's already captivating presence, as if it had been created to accentuate her beauty.

Emilia's elegance was palpable, exuding the sense of a wealthy heiress cherished by her family and pampered like a delicate flower. Her poise and confidence commanded attention, and the young men in the room were utterly entranced. Their gazes were drunk with admiration, their breath seemingly stolen by her beauty.

As she reached the bottom of the stairs, Emilia's eyes sparkled like diamonds, her sapphire-blue irises gleaming with a soft, inner light. Her lips, painted a subtle rose, curved into a gentle smile, captivating the hearts of all who beheld her. The room remained spellbound, frozen in time, as Emilia's radiance illuminated the space, a true vision of loveliness.

As Emilia basked in the attention, Amelia's gaze lingered on her, a mix of admiration and envy swirling in her chest. Just moments before, Amelia was the belle of the ball, with all eyes on her and compliments flowing like champagne. But then Emilia descended the stairs, and the spotlight shifted, leaving Amelia in the shadows.

Amelia's eyes narrowed, her thoughts racing with resentment. Who was this girl, really? The same one they'd found unconscious on the road? She looked...transformed. The peach gown hugged her curves, and the Tear of a fairy necklace sparkled like diamonds against her skin. She was stunning, a true beauty who could give the current Miss World, Kylie Paterson, a run for her money.

Amelia's gaze drifted to Reynolds, her boyfriend, who stood beside her, his eyes fixed on Emilia with an intensity she'd never seen before. His gaze was captivating, as if he was under a spell, and Amelia felt a pang of jealousy. She had never seen him look at her like that, with such raw admiration and desire.

A spark of possessiveness ignited within Amelia. She didn't like being upstaged, especially not by this...this...interloper. Emilia might have stolen the spotlight, but Amelia was determined to reclaim it.

As the lights flickered back to life, the spellbound gaze of the crowd was finally broken, and the room erupted into a gentle hum of conversation and applause, they were applauding her for being so beautiful. Emilia stood frozen, her cheeks flushed with a mix of excitement and shyness.

Earlier, as she stood upstairs, Emilia had glanced down at the hall and seen the sea of people below. Her heart skipped a beat as she took in the sheer number of guests, all chatting, laughing, and sipping champagne. She felt a wave of nervousness wash over her, her legs trembling with anxiety. So many people! Mr. Marcus had told her to get ready and come down to the party, but she had no idea he had invited so many guests.

As she scanned the room, Emilia's eyes widened at the opulence surrounding her. Everyone seemed to be dressed to impress, their designer gowns and tailored suits a testament to their wealth and prestige. She felt like a small boat adrift in a stormy sea, overwhelmed by the grandeur of it all.

Emilia's mind raced with doubts. What was she doing here? She didn't belong in this bin of luxury and excess. She was just a simple girl from a humble background, not some high-society heiress OR maybe?

She had made up her mind, she wouldn't attend the function, it was all too soon, to overwhelming and she couldn't take so much, barely a day since she woke up from her six months sleep and these, she couldn't handle it.Just as Emilia was about to make a hasty retreat to her room, a plump maid appeared out of nowhere, her keen instincts sensing Emilia's nervousness. With a gentle but firm smile, the maid positioned herself in front of Emilia, effectively blocking her escape route.

"Oh no, miss, you can't hide now," the maid said with a warm chuckle. "Mr. Marcus would be ever so disappointed if you didn't join the party. And after all he's done for you, dearie, it's the least you can do."

Emilia's resolve crumbled under the maid's gentle prodding. She took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, and summoned her courage. With a quiet determination, she descended the stairs, her heart racing with every step.

As she reached the bottom, the room fell silent, and all eyes turned to her. Emilia's nervousness threatened to overwhelm her, but thankfully, the dim lighting hid her sweaty palms and trembling hands. She quickly scanned the room, seeking a refuge from the spotlight.

Spotting a quiet corner, Emilia made a beeline for it, hoping to blend into the shadows and avoid drawing attention to herself. She sat down, her eyes fixed on her lap, and tried to calm her racing heart. But as she glanced up, she caught sight of Amelia's gaze, flashing with a mixture of envy and malice. Emilia's nervousness spiked anew, and she wondered if she'd ever make it through this night unscathed.

***

As the lights came on, Tasha was the first to question Emilia's identity, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Who is this girl?" she asked, her eyes fixed on Emilia's face.

Melody, another friend, chimed in, her eyes widening in surprise. "Is it just me, or is that girl wearing the Tear of a fairy necklace ? Isn't that the same one Amy wanted?" she asked, her voice laced with intrigue.

The group of friends began to speculate about Emilia's identity and the necklace, their whispers and glances fueling the air with curiosity. Tasha, however, noticed something else - the anger in Amelia's eyes. It was a look she had never seen before, a killer glint that made her feel uneasy.

Tasha reached out and took Amelia's hand, asking, "What's wrong, Amy?" The others too noticed Amelia's silence and the dangerous look in her eyes, and they exchanged worried glances.

But in an instant, Amelia's expression returned to normal, and she brushed off their concerns. "She's just someone my dad is helping, that's all," she said, her voice light and dismissive.

Reynolds, Amelia's boyfriend, spoke up, a dirty grin spreading across his face. "Hey, Amy, why don't you introduce us to the new girl?" he suggested, his eyes fixed on Emilia with an unsettling intensity.

Amelia hesitated, but couldn't bring herself to say no to Reynolds. She stood up, her friends following suit, and made her way to the corner where Emilia sat, her eyes filled with malice.