Chapter 20: Chapter 20

Dressed in ruffled lavender long down with heels, alongside Ryan who wore a slightly gray slim fit suit and brown Tomasso Italian leather shoes, we both made our entrance.

With our arms entwined, we walked into the hall bustling with many people including businessmen and women all over the United States, and probably beyond.

Nervousness clouded my innermost and I could only count numbers inwardly to ease the tension already building up in me. This was my first social gathering, especially with Ryan and almost in no time we were able to draw the attention of others.

We began making our way to an empty table, as a familiar fellow walked up to us. None other than Eva. She hugged me, causing my arms to slip off from Ryan's. I noticed him groan, as Eva simply rolled her eyes.

“I thought you would never come. Guess my brother really meant it.” Eva teased, as slow music began playing in the background.

“What brings you here, sister?” Ryan's voice prompted the both of us to stare at him.

“I am the makeup artist the Holloway family recruited. I will be treating the bride.” Ryan simply nodded, as we eventually took a seat.

Even though Eva had told me she was the makeup artist for Lucille's wedding, I could not help but slip the fact that she was my step-sister. I never mentioned more than that. And she refused to give me an update on how her date went on the previous night. I doubt it went well.

The loud cheer of the Emcee jolted me out of my thoughts as I looked forward to seeing Lucille with his husband, Daniel Holloway, one of the richest businessmen in the United States.

As I looked on, I kept wondering if that was the man my step mum intended for me to marry before. Now that I was out of the picture, she decided to replace me. She is cunny.

“Are you okay?” Ryan whispered, as I brought a smile to my lips, nodding.

“I'm good, you?” I asked.

“I'm good too. If you are getting bored, please tell me.” I acknowledged his words by nodding.

My little stare towards Ryan made me realize just how fortunate I was for getting engaged to him. Even though I still needed to pull extra strings to make him fall in love with me, I was more than ready to give it a shot. For now, I needed to focus on enjoying this wedding.

We finally sat down, alongside Eva. The wedding continued, and at some point, the groom and bride were provided an opportunity to dance with close family members. I took it as an opportunity to remind Lucille and my step mum of not breaking their promise.

“I want to go to the front, to dance.” Ryan's eyes studied me, probably wondering if I was joking.

His forehead creased slightly.

“Ariel, let's dance.” Eva pulled me up instantly, as she dragged me along.

I adjusted myself, whispering an appreciative note to her, before adjusting my gown. Eva waved at me before going back to her seat. She is a lifesaver. Ryan will definitely be angry.

Each step towards where they danced only made me felt as if I was stupid to attend the wedding of the daughter of someone who wanted me dead. As much as I wanted to hate both mother and child, I just can't get angry or furious for revenge. It was a plot twist I was yet to make wrap my head around.

I stepped into the dance floor as I noticed it was a mixer dance, where they exchanged partners. I glanced slightly, noticing I was the only one who doesn't have a partner. Suddenly, I heard a voice behind me.

“Will you like to dance?” I raised my head to meet the gaze of Damien.

What is he doing here?

“Let's dance and I will explain.” His voice came a bit high, so I could hear properly. It was as if he heard my thoughts. Or maybe I spoke out.

I relaxed as I put my hands on his shoulder, as well as his waist. He also did the same.

“The Holloway family and mine are close. I'm the groom's cousin.” He explained.

Well, even with his explanation, I still felt he wasn't supposed to join the dance. Maybe I was just overthinking.

“You? Are you related to the bride?" He asked, as I sighed.

“Yes. She is my sister.” I acknowledged, even though it felt heavy to say it.

We continued swaying from left to right, and at some point, I wanted to move to another partner as soon as possible.

“How is your marriage preparation? I would love to attend.” He suddenly voiced out, making me gulp down saliva down my throat.

“It is strictly by a few invitations. I've exhausted the invitations, so I cannot give you one.”

His demeanor changed slightly, as if he was hurt.

“Okay. I thought you would rather not give me because you were afraid I would cause trouble.” I whisked my head sideways.

“Happy Married life in advance.”

“Thank you.” I smiled warmly at you.

At that very instance, I was beginning to feel there was something off with the mixer dance. It is taking longer to change partners. If Ryan sees both of us, he would not be happy.

“Can you promise me one thing?” My eyes widened a bit at his words. I almost gripped more of his clothing to ease my nervousness, our eyes piercing at each other.

“Calm down, will you?” I tried to smile, hiding the anxiety at his previous words. What does he want to ask me?

“Okay, please ask.” He chuckled.

“Promise that you would ask for my help if you ever need it.” I let out a sigh of relief, and a glint of happiness appeared on my face.

“I promise Damien.” I gave my words as we both smiled.

We continued dancing for a few more seconds before the tune of the song changed. It was Perfect by Ed- Sheeran.

“See you again, Ariel.” He releases me as he passes me to the next person, immediately the song changed.

None other than the groom. My heart skipped a bit.

“I never knew a beauty like this is a family member. Are you from the Deleroza's.” He voiced out, as soon as we began swaying to the beat.

I allowed myself to relax. He is the least of my problems. I took in his appearance, as he was almost the same height as Damien, with black eyes, and black hair which are well gelled.

“Yes. I am the bride's sister.” I simply answered.

He raised a brow, before whispering.

“Ariel? “I nodded, confirming that was my name.

“Not bad. Lucille told me briefly about you, but I never knew you were such a beauty.” I faked a smile, not sure if that compliment was a flirtatious one, or ….

“Pardon me, but I think I would have loved to marry you instead of her. You look dazzling.” His smile became wider, as I begged in my heart for the exchange of partner.

As if noticing I were in thoughts, he pushed me closer to himself, his breath almost fanning my face.

“You know, we can find time together. I like you already. You look so beautiful, and I am falling at first sight.”

That was it. I forcefully removed his hand from my waist as I glared at him. He tried to move closer, but stopped, probably noticing others were beginning to stare at us.

I gulped in much-needed air, as I tried to find my way out of the mixer dance. I groaned at how the family members seemed to be more than I expected. I could not pass.

“Let's dance sister.” Lucille appeared from nowhere as she held my shoulder.

She was dressed in a white long gown which screams luxury. It fitted her perfectly. Her necklace shined brightly, and her makeup was good. Eva did justice with her look.

I put on a smile as we began swaying to the beat. Silence erodes my thoughts.

“Have you seen how handsome my husband is?” She giggled, making me let out a sigh.

If only she knew her husband was nothing but a Casanova.

“Happy married life, Lucille. I wish you all the best.” I said truthfully, as she stopped, prompting me to stop too.

We gazed at each other for a while, and for split seconds, I was sure surprise was written over her face. To be honest, I stopped holding a grudge against both mother and daughter ever since I realized it was a waste of time.

I was happy, and even though they took the only property my mum gave before dying, I am quite confident it won't be theirs forever.

She cleared her throat as we resumed dancing.

“I hope you won't forget about the deal. Don't forget to remind your mother about it.” I stated as she nodded.

“You know Ariel, I never liked you. You stole our parents' attention."She voiced out, as her eyes showed anger, even though she was trying to hide it .

It was time for me to leave.

"That is your insecurities talking,Lucille. Be careful and don't get carried away by the look of your husband. He is not who you really think he is."Without wasting time, I detached my hands from hers, as I left.

I hope she understands. Why do I still care?