The Brightest Star

Chapter 17

I smooth down my dress as I look at myself in the mirror. The black gown that Marco helped me pick out truly does fit me perfectly. It clings to my curves in just the right way and the deep back shows my only tattoo. My hair is pulled into a low bun with a few curls left out to frame my face. I'm wearing more makeup than I usually do; charcoal around my eyes and bright red lips.

There's a light rapping on my bedroom door and I take a shaky breath. I open the door to reveal Dominic. He's wearing a tuxedo with a bow tie and everything. His hair is styled back and his signature smirk rests on his face. His gaze travels up and down my body and I chew on my lip nervously.

"You look amazing, little love," he breathes out with a smile, "absolutely gorgeous."

"Thanks," I reply, "you clean up pretty good as well."

"I have something for you," he says, holding out a small velvet box.

I hesitantly take it from him and lift the lid. My mouth drops open and my eyes flick to him. The gorgeous diamond necklace in the box sparkles under the bright lights.

"I'm not taking this off," I say, matter of fact. My hand reaches for my necklace and I turn the charm over in my fingers.

"I'm not asking you to," Dom counters quickly.

"Okay," I nod slowly.

I look down at the box in my hands and carefully pull out the necklace. The thing had to have cost a fortune I realize as I inspect it closer. Dom takes it from my hand and steps behind me. His hand ghosts along my exposed skin as he clasps it in place.

"Why did you give me this?" I ask him.

"You deserve it," he replies, "and it finishes off the outfit."

I nod; he's probably right. He places his hand on my lower back making chills race down my spine before urging me forward. He guides me down the halls until we get outside.

There's a row of blacked out SUVs being filled with armed men. There's got to be at least three dozen men accompanying us tonight and that fact gives me some comfort. Dominic gestures to one of the vehicles and I climb inside. He gets in beside me quickly and places his hand on my thigh.

"Are you sure you're okay with this?" Dom asks as the car pulls off.

"Yeah," I nod, "besides, you're bringing half an army."

"If anything happens, anything at all," Dom starts, "find me or Leon."

"Do you think something's going to happen?" I hesitantly ask. I don't know if I even want the answer.

"No," he replies firmly, "like I said, this is a closed event. In addition to my soldiers, I've paid off the venue's security. It's going to be fine."

"If you say so," I shrug, looking out the window.

My eyes go wide as the driver comes to a stop. There's a literal red carpet leading from the sidewalk to the front doors of the museum. Journalists and photographers flood the sidelines, snapping pictures and asking questions. Other guests dressed to the nines walk down the carpet and politely smile for the cameras.

"I had no idea it was going to be like this," Dom mutters, "we can bail, leave right now."

"No," I turn to look at him, "I want to see the new display."

His eyes carefully search my face before he says, "alright."

The driver swings open the door and offers me his hand. I take it and carefully climb out not wanting to mess up my dress. Dominic hops out quickly and wraps his arm around my waist.