HIS INNOCENT SIN

CHAPTER 16

As I sat in his office, diligently working on paperwork, he was engrossed in a business meeting with several companies. Suddenly, my phone buzzed, and I received another text message from Jereme. 

He had sent me a photo of the dress again, this time claiming it was from Vivienne Westwood. The silk and pearl jewels accompanying it were breathtaking, and I couldn't wait to wear them to the night ball. Meanwhile, Ashton was once again causing a commotion in Michael's office, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of embarrassment and anticipation. Despite the stark contrast between Ashton and Michael, the former wanted to have lunch with me once more.

"So, Jenna, guess what? There's a big party tonight," Ashton exclaimed excitedly.
"I'm not sure, but I imagine it'll be attended by affluent individuals," I replied, contemplating the type of people who would be present at such an event.

It was a serendipitous moment when Jereme invited me to the night ball party just as I was sipping on my milkshake. Throughout the day, Ashton and I have a good conversation and he taught me so much and made me laugh.
"Jenna, do you have a date? I would love to have you as my companion for the party," he asked, his eyes filled with curiosity.
"Um... my friend also invited me, but I don't think it's the same event. I'm sorry," I responded, regretful that our schedules didn't align.
"Oh, it's alright. I was just really looking forward to seeing you in that dress," he said, causing a blush to spread across my cheeks. We had spent hours talking, and the work would continue until it was completed.

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Later that day, a large box arrived from the designer, accompanied by more accessories. Zeon, my dog, wagged his tail with excitement, sensing something special. Opening the box, I discovered a beautiful white silk backless dress, perfectly complemented by a pearl choker and delicate arm cuffs.

When I tried on the tailored dress and slipped into the heels, I couldn't help but admire my slender petite figure in the mirror. I felt like a mermaid's tear, a glistening pearl. With only minimal makeup, consisting of foundation, blush, eyeliner, lip tint, and lipstick, I was ready. I started experimenting with makeup at a young age, using some items from my aunt, who was a makeup artist.

The final touch was the exquisite choker, adorned with pearls, which would elevate my outfit for the night. As my phone rang, I picked it up to hear Jereme's voice. His Bentley car awaited me outside the window. Before leaving, I made sure to give Zeon some treats and food to keep him satisfied.
Feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness about the night's event, I placed my hand in Jereme's as we walked toward his car. As we entered the party venue, I couldn't help but notice the grandeur of the hallway, filled with affluent individuals. I felt a chill run down my spine, my palms growing cold. Sensing my unease, Jereme pulled me closer, his arm wrapping around my waist. He whispered in my ear, causing my cheeks to flush.

"You are so beautiful, and you should be proud of that," he said, and I blushed even more.
Jereme wasn't just my best friend; he always went out of his way to make me feel special and look my best.
"Thank you for inviting me tonight," I said, smiling as a gentleman approached us.
"Hello, Mr. Jereme. Is this lovely lady your girlfriend?" he asked with a smile.
"Oh no, she's just a friend I invited to the party" Jereme clarified.

As I waited for Jereme's party to begin, I realized I had underestimated his success. I felt self-conscious, wearing such a revealing and sexy dress, especially in front of unfamiliar faces. Men glanced at me and complimented my beauty. It was like a fairytale when Ashton, dressed in a stunning red suit, walked over and smiled at me.

"Wow, a goddess adorned in pearls, a tear of happiness. May I have the honor of kissing your hand?" he asked, bringing my hand to his lips. My cheeks turned crimson, and I couldn't help but smile.
"I never expected to see you here, and I certainly didn't realize that the party you mentioned earlier was hosted by my best friend, Jereme," I said.
"Wait, he's your best friend? Do you know he's the third wealthiest man?" Ashton asked, clearly surprised.

"I had no idea. All I know is that Jereme is still the same humble and kind person," I replied, realizing that wealth didn't define our friendship.
As Ashton continued to gaze at me, I felt as if I were melting under his intense stare. However, he was distracted by his date and left, leaving me alone at the party, surrounded by unfamiliar faces. I decided to take a moment away from the crowd and stepped out onto the balcony to admire the night sky and the twinkling stars.
"Jenna," a familiar voice called out from behind me.
Startled, I turned around to see Michael standing there. Our eyes locked, and he instinctively reached out to hold my waist, preventing me from losing my balance. The proximity between us created a tension that I couldn't ignore. His face, his lips, his captivating green eyes. I momentarily averted my gaze, trying to create some distance.
"Why are you alone here, looking so sad?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.
"It's nothing. I should go," I stuttered, my fingers becoming clammy. I needed to leave before I lost control of my emotions.
However, before I could make a move, Michael pulled me closer, his grip firm yet gentle. He looked into my eyes, his gaze intense, as if he wanted me for the night.

"You look stunning. I wish I could have been your date tonight," he confessed.
"I already have a date..." I began, my voice trailing off.
"I know, princess. I know," he replied, his tone filled with resignation.
Just then, someone called out to him. It was a curvaceous woman, exuding beauty and confidence. She looked amazing, and it pained me to see Michael with her instead of me.
"Darling, what are you doing?" the woman asked, interrupting our conversation. I stepped back, feeling nervous and unsure how to respond.
"Oh, um... Mr. Ledford was just helping me. That's all," I managed to say, trying to regain my composure.
"I appreciate his kindness towards you. And my fiancé does look great tonight. Are you his secretary?" she asked, assuming my role.
A fiancé.
A fiancé. Michael was engaged.