Modern Cinderella (on hold)

Chapter 1

3 years ago.

I am still in shocked when I stared my reflection in the mirror. I am wearing a gorgeous baby blue Pnina Tornae gown. My brown hair was made into a bun and was accessorized by silver and crystallized diadem. Overall, it was simple yet elegant.

"God, Ella you look different."

My bestfriend Cassie said to me.

She's wearing a hot pink tube gown that hugged her body, revealing her gorgeous curves.

"Ahh, thanks?"

I shyly responded to her compliment.

"Oh come on, don't be so down. You look stunning in that blue gown of yours."

She held both of my shoulders.

"Now, chest in, butt out and chin up. Got that?" I smiled because of what she said. My over confident cousin- slash-bestfriend.

Were bestfriend ever since were 6. Though we're opposites when it comes to things that we do. I prefer clean and simple dresses while her, on the other hand likes dresses that are 'catchy' as in literally. I am known for being a heiress. We are from the clan of the Ramirez. But still, I am not used to the popularity that we are gaining. I prefer reading books and staying in my room than to shop and roam around the city.

We arrived at the La Mia hotel and resort in Batangas, one of our best hotels in and out of the country.

"Put this on." She said, handing a mask.

"What? I thought it's just an ordinary ball with auction." I look at her with a counfused face.

"The ball is just part of an event. There will be a human auction happening and we are part of it. It will start right after the dinner. Exciting isn't it?"

Oh holy moly. I am dead.

"Wait, why didn't you tell me about it?" I asked with a serious tone.

"That's exactly the reason why I didn't bother telling you. Don't freak out. Tita Esther told me that it's a great idea as well. So girl, just deal with it. Enjoy!" She squeaked like a pig.

We both put on the mask, mine was silver with a dazzle of glitters and has a white feather on the right side while hers' was black that has some crystals on it. As we entered the ball room. All eyes were set on us. Err. I guess? And she is right, we are all wearing masks with different looks and style. This kinda reminds me of the romantic Romeo and Juliet, well, aside from the masks.

Tables and chairs are placed on the sides while there's a stage at center of the ball room. That gives me a creep on the human auction thing. There were lot of people whom I don't know but one thing is for sure. All of them are filthy rich and famous to be in this kind of social event, which makes me uncomfortable. I don't care about my social status in life. I am just happy and contented that I have a great family and set of friends that I know I can rely on. There's nothing else that I could wish for.

We went straight to the round table where some of our cousins were seating. Yes, we are wearing masks but that doesn't mean that we had amnesia to not remember their faces.

"How's it going?"

Cassie said greeting them.

"Boring as usual, I want to go home. It is so lame in here."

Greta said while rolling her eyes heavenwards, some of the people I know called her the 'black sheep" of our famiy. And I don't believe in them. She's just like me, an introvert person.

"Oh c'mon Gret, loosen up. Enjoy the booze of the music and the drinks. This is life."

Cassie said, holding a glass of champagne.

"Want some cous.? She smirked at me while offering the other glass that in on table.

"No thanks, maybe later."

I am no 'virgin' when it comes to drinking. I think it is because I have high-tolerance when it comes to alcohol. I don't get easily drunk and that's a good thing but I am not used to drinking 'cause I found it bitter. I prefer sweets, like smoothie, especially milkshakes.

We took our seats and ate our dinner. Little chit-chat here and there, then the most awaited event of the programme started.

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. We are gathered here tonight to celebrate the 30th founding anniversary of the Ramirez group of Companies. And to bring back the blessings that they are receiving they taught of this annual 'auction' But tonight's bidding will be different and a lot more interesting than before."

The crowd began making sounds because of what they have heard. Even I, myself was also shocked a couple of minutes ago. Like the emcee have said, there's always an auction that happens every year. Some of the 'volunteers' sell their ohh-so-expensive bags, shoes and other goodies in exchange for the money. The funds that are from the bidding are then donated by some organizations and orphanages here in Philippines. It is all for a great cause. And I am happy that our family help other people because of this. I also used to bid my things in here. Unfortunately, the bidding that will be happening later on might ruin my 'world of wisdom'.

"There are gorgeous men and women who will be a part of this auction."

Oh my god, here it goes.

The emcee continues,

"I will call these people by the masks that they are wearing. There are a total of 5 men and 5 women who are willing to be anyones date for tonight's event. Wonderful isn't it? So, let us start the ball rolling."

I swallowed the hard lump that is in my throat. I think I am going to pass out anytime soon.

"All women that have white feather on their masks. Please come to the stage."

What?! White? Only me?! Seriously?

I thought she is also a part of this freakin bidding thing.

I give an i-will-kill-you-later look to Cassie. She did this on purpose.

But she just gave me sweet smile, acting innocently.

We all went to the stage. The spotlight is killing me right now. I just want to evaporate somewhere.

"Now, it is time for the women to lighten up the mood. Ladies please stand in front." The emcee assisted us.

"Lady number 1 is Ms. Girl in Black. She studied in Oxford. Interest: horseback riding and fashion designing."

Yadah,yadah,yadah.. I am getting sleepy in here.

I was deep in my thoughts when I saw a pair of gray eyes that are intently looking at me. Were both looking at each other when the emcee called my attention. My turn already?

"Ehem, again, lady number 5 is our star of the night, heiress of the Ramirez hotel Corporation. Interest: reading and cooking."

Seriously? I don't even know how to fry an egg. I take out a deep sigh.

"The auction for this Lady number 5 is now open."

"P10 000!"

I heard someone said, a guy that is in black suit.

The emcee repeated, "For P10 000! Going once, going twice."

When suddenly another guy shouted.

"P25 000!"

"Oh, I like where this is heading. P25 000! Going once, going twice. So--"

"P50 000!" The guy with the gray eyes that was looking at me before shouted.

Really? 50K for just a stupid date? This is ironic.

"Wow! The highest bid for tonight.Going once, going twice. Sold! She is now sold to Mr. Gian Chavez. Thank you for the partnership."