Jade

Chapter 14

Despite all the drama surrounding the Brown-Williams family, their 15 year anniversary gala was still scheduled as planned. It was middle of March now, so Miami was in the high 70s, The warm ocean breeze carried the scent of salt and citrus. It was the perfect weather for the occasion. The shimmering lights of Miami's skyline reflected off the water as guests boarded the Echelon, the BWF Industries mega yacht docked at a private marina. The vessel was truly a spectacle of modern luxury, draped in sleek decor.

"Mariana let's pin it back here a little more so it comes in at her waist." B instructed the seamstress who was diligently working on Jade's dress last minute. The gala was set to start in the next fifteen minutes and Jade was no where near ready.

"White or black french Jade?" Jade's nail tech Sochina asked, neatly buffing out her nails.

"Hmm," Jade said, glancing over at her dress that was being worked on. "White."

Her hairstylist working on pressing out her bundles as Sochina worked on her nails, a group effort to get her ready.

Almost an hour later, Jade was dressed and ready to go, feeling like the Beyoncè of the family as per usual. Jade's custom gown was a masterpiece, a shimmering gold creation that caught every flicker of light as she moved. The fabric, a blend of metallic threads and silk, clung to her curves like liquid gold, accentuating her figure. The corseted bodice was intricately detailed, featuring delicate boning that cinched her waist to perfection, the deep v cut on the dress adding an air of sensual elegance.

The dress's fitted silhouette flowed seamlessly into the thigh-high slit that revealed just enough leg and showed her Aquazzura tequila crystal embellished heels.

The thin spaghetti straps of her dress rested delicately on her shoulders, framing her collarbones and drawing attention to the $30,000 diamond marquise cut lariat around her neck. The back dipped low, revealing her smooth brown skin coated with body oil and shimmer. The hemline of the dress cascaded into a flowing train that pooled slightly at her feet.

The black truck was already waiting outside the estate as she transcended down the stairs, holding the tail of her dress so she wouldn't trip.

"About time." Her Aunt Serene said once the driver opened the car door for her.

"Hi to you too auntie." Jade said, giving her a quick hug as she got comfortable in the seat next to her.

The city lights casted fleeting reflections on the windows as the driver sped towards the marina, the Miami views as breathtaking as ever. She adjusted the strap of her gown, the fabric hugging her frame perfectly and shimmering under the dim interior light. Her hair, styled in soft waves, framed her face, accentuating the flawless beat on her face. The subtle scent of jasmine and bergamot lingered as she clasped a delicate gold Bulgari Serpenti watch around her wrist.

They soon arrived to their destination, press and media already getting their money shots. 

"I'm ready to get drunk." Serene whispered, her arm linked with Jade's as they walked the red carpet. The step and repeat was dazzled by overhead lights and camera flashes.

"Me too," Jade whispered back. They both worked their angles as a duo before taking solo shots and stepping off the carpet.

The top deck of the yacht was transformed into an open-air venue, complete with a stage overlooking the Miami skyline. Their guest sipped champagne and signature "BWF" cocktails while mingling beneath a canopy of string lights. A massive LED screen display highlighted BWF Industries' achievements over the years, along with the tagline: "15 Years of Impact."

"You smell that?" Serene asked, the two of them moving through the party with ease as the smell of earthy weed flooded their senses.

"Yeah, let's go." Jade said as the two of them followed the scent. Outside on the deck, her father and her uncles were all drinking and smoking dressed in expensive tailored suits and dress shoes.