chapter 6

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I tossed and turned throughout the night, each minute stretching into what felt like an eternity. The ceiling above me became my only companion my eyes darting towards it's details as I replayed the events of the day before in my mind.

The envelope sat on my desk, illuminated by the soft glow of my desk lamp , a constant reminder of the opportunity and the risks that lay ahead.

As the first rays of sunlight filtered through my window, they kissed my face gently, coaxing me awake. I squinted at the brightness, wishing I could hide from the world.

With a reluctant sigh, I swung my legs over the side of the bed, my feet hitting the cold floor jolting me totally awake. The morning felt heavy with anticipation, the only sound being the birds that flew across the garden.

..oh I wish I was a bird..

After a quick shower, the warm water washed away some of my anxiety, if only for a moment. I took a deep breath, letting the steam wrap around me like a comforting blanket. Once I finished, I emerged wearing my casual t-shirt and underwear, feeling both vulnerable and oddly liberated.

Glancing at my desk, the envelope caught my eye again. The elegant, gold-embossed card seemed to beckon me. I was supposed to be at Du'Lumiere Café by now, following my routine of observing Tristan.

... But today felt different; I couldn’t bring myself to go. Just yesterday, I had made the trip, but something held me back now.

With a mix of trepidation and determination, I reached out for the envelope, sliding it across my glass desk . My fingers brushing against the paper lightly, I felt a jolt of resolve. I took a seat at my desk, the envelope resting in front of me like a ticking clock

**Tick**

**Tock**

**Tick**

**Tock**

The seconds replayed at the back of my head, the birds song sounding more like a cry, my fingers reached for the envelope, hastily opening it's folds to reveal it's contents.

inside lay a beautifully designed invitation card, with colours so boring and neutral, yet elegant and intriguing. its surface smooth and slightly glossy. The card was thick, giving it a luxurious feel as I held it between my fingers.

scribbled in gold, In elegant script, the invitation read:

**"You're Invited: The Medleys Charity Gala. Date: Saturday, 7 PM. Location: The Grand Ballroom, New York City. Dress Code: Formal Attire."**

My breath caught for a moment as I took in the words. This was more than just a gathering, it was a chance to step into a world of affluence and influence, a world that seemed miles away from my reality. The gilded edges of the card shimmered in the morning light, making the invitation feel even more special and daunting.

I carefully traced the lettering with my fingertip, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. The gala promised a night of elegance and opportunity, but it also served as a reminder of my mission. I was here to get close to Tristan, not simply to enjoy the festivities.

I dipped my fingers into the envelope once more to reach for the tiny piece of paper tucked inside. Unfolding it, I found a number scribbled hastily in pen. It felt like a lifeline, a direct line to the party planner who could help me navigate this event....How did I guess?.

Well the boss wouldn't be that stupid to lend me his employees numbers.

A sigh escaped my lips , I contemplated the significance of the gala and what my boss had planned for me. This was no ordinary event.

It was my opportunity to slip into Tristan’s world.

"was I ready for this?"

"what if I was discovered?"

I thought pressing my lips into a line.

A shiver running down my spine at the thought. With a deep breath, I reached for my phone, my fingers trembling slightly as I hovered above the screen. This was my chance to make a move, to turn this invitation into an opportunity.

"hello?"

"hello, you should be miss Carter?"

"y...yes I am" my body stabled, the voice sounded ordinary, not scary nor intimidating.

"this is Jamie from luxe event planning, we received an order that you needed a luxury black sedan, to rent?"

"luxury black sedan!!?" I replied trying to mask my shock , I coughed slightly

"I am aware" I replied stabilizing my voice once again.

"Great!, you can pick it up tomorrow at 5pm from our downtown garage, there would be a driver on scene to deliver the keys as well as take you to your destination....." the voice paused sightly, possibly waiting for a response, it continued

".....please have in mind the driver was rented only for the night and would not be available for more than that"

" I am aware of course"

" thank you for your compliance, please do not forget to issue us your ID, and to comply with the time discussed....do have a nice day"

**call ends**

I quickly let out a sigh of the breath I hadn't realized I had been holding.

" A luxury car....for Mee?" I thought my face squinting in delight. distracted by my own thoughts, which was quickly cut short by the growling of my stomach.

Remembering I hadn’t eaten since the day before, I made my way downstairs , my toes feeling first the coldness of the marble beneath my feet .

The aroma of fresh coffee wafted through the air, beckoning me to the kitchen. opening the fridge and pulled out some eggs, a slice of bread, and a handful of spinach, throwing together a quick breakfast.

As I stood at the stove, the eggs sizzling in the pan, my mind drifted back to the phone call.

A luxury black sedan was waiting for me, for meee??. It felt surreal. I couldn’t help but wonder about the driver and what they’d be like.

Would they see through my facade?

My thoughts cut short by the smell of burning eggs.

"fuck" I mutter under my breath

I quickly turn the stove off.

Once I finished my breakfast, I quickly washed my dishes and made my way back upstairs, already contemplating what to wear.

I rummaged through my closet, pulling out a few options. I held up a sleek black dress, its fabric soft and shimmering under the light, bringing it closer to my face I sniffed it slightly, can't lie....it smelled rich . It looked like it would hug the curves of my body just right, and I could already picture how I would feel wearing it.

The invitation said formal attire, I'm no dummy , I know a formal dress when I see one and this might be it. Boring , yet elegant.

Twisting the dress around further I found no extra designs added to it ,just a black dress with string like straps for shoulders , and a neckline that looked like it would peek a hint of my cleavage, not too much , but not too subtle either.....just enough to get attention. it was perfect

After laying it out on the bed, I began to search for accessories.....something elegant yet understated

" like a necklace of some kind"

I thought. As I rifled through my drawers..... I hit it, brushing my fingers against a hard surface. I paused, pulling out a beautifully ornate jewelry box.

its intricate carvings glinting in the light. The box was a deep mahogany, polished to a high shine, with delicate floral patterns etched into the wood. Gold accents highlighted the edges, giving it an air of elegance and sophistication.

I carefully opened the lid, the *click* sound breaking the air of silence , revealing a velvet-lined interior that cradled an array of stunning pieces. Each jewel sparkled like tiny stars, just waiting for the right moment to shine. My heart raced as I imagined which piece would perfectly complement the black dress.

Why had the boss gone to such lengths for me? The lavish car rental, the exquisite jewelry?.....it all felt like a setup for something significant.

What was it about Tristan Agress that warranted this kind of attention?

A mixture of excitement and trepidation churned in my stomach. Was I merely a pawn in someone else's game, or was there something more intimate unfolding? The thrill of the unknown wrapped around me, tightening like the delicate chains I hoped to wear tonight.

I took a deep breath, trying to shake off the whirlpool of emotions. I needed to focus on my mission, but the allure of the evening ahead beckoned me, promising adventure and danger in equal measure.

I thought about the gala and ......the people I would meet. The thought of mingling with high-profile guests made my heart race with excitement and trepidation.

What if I was recognized? I pushed the thought aside, focusing on my reflection in the mirror. I needed to project confidence, but the nerves twisted in my stomach like a tight knot.

The clock ticked steadily, reminding me that time was running out. As I gathered my outfit and accessories, a chill ran down my spine. Something about this event felt more significant than I initially realized. I had to stay sharp and be prepared for anything.

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