Mounting Danger

Chapter 8- The Gala

The crimson gown clung to my figure with unapologetic confidence as I gave myself a slow twirl in front of the full-length mirror. Instead of my usual firey curls, I opted for a pin-straight hairstyle with a single swoop accented by a diamond hairpiece. Outwardly, I presented the image of a confident femme fatale, but inwardly, I felt like a belly dancer's hips, shaking with nervous energy.

A lot was riding on me having sex appeal. The stakes were high; Ricky Quinn's attraction to me tonight could determine the success or failure of the mission. I had grown accustomed to the fact that I was about to be wealthy enough to pay off every bill I had. I was not ready to give up the feeling. Despite my apprehension, determination fueled my steps. I was about to take 'fake it til you make it' to a whole new level.

After strapping on my stilettos, I made my way to the staircase and gripped the railing for dear life. Thanks to the skyscraper heels Ryder insisted I wear, I wasn't sure if I could make it down the stairs without breaking my neck. 

At the base of the staircase, Kayle, dressed in black with a crimson cape and a masked identity, awaited. I placed a hand on my hip, playful curiosity in my voice. "And who are you?"

He held his cape over his mouth, adopting a mysterious tone. "I'm Dracula. That makes you my bride."

"Funny. That's not how I saw it. I thought I was a vampire queen, and you were one of my minions." I quipped, making a whip sound and gesturing at him. Kayle dropped his cape, arching a brow in response.

"I never pictured you as a dominatrix."

"I'm full of surprises." I continued the banter as he gestured toward the door, signaling the next phase of our mission. A hand extended, and I allowed him to guide me to the waiting car. The chauffeur started the engine, propelling us towards the Carringtons' mansion.

As the city lights streaked by, I couldn't help but ask, "Where are the other guys?"

Kayle's masked expression turned thoughtful. "They can't all come. Since Ricky despises us, being seen with us would only hurt your chances. I'll be inside, just in case you need me, but I won't be by your side."

A sense of uneasiness washed over me. "So I'll be on my own."

Kayle offered a reassuring smile and handed me a sophisticated ear cuff. "First off, I'd never abandon you. Put this on. It's an earpiece. We'll be able to communicate and stay connected."

Admiring the sleek design, I secured the ear cuff in place. "Sleek."

The next offering was a sleek pistol and a sturdy garter. I fastened the weapon securely to my thigh.

The car came to a gradual halt, placing us directly in front of the Carringtons' opulent mansion, bathed in moonlight. The sound of lively music spilled from inside, setting the stage for the grand masquerade. Rows of luxurious vehicles lined the perfectly manicured driveway, each one more extravagant than the last. The sound of lively music spilled from inside the building.

I watched as other guests filed in before me. The dazzling diamonds that adorned their necks, the extravagant costumes, and the air of privilege left me feeling out of place like I was a stranger who had mistakenly wandered into a world far beyond my own.

A hand on my shoulder brought me back to the present. "You've got this, Selene," Kayle whispered. "I know it can seem like a lot, but these people are just like you."

"Right, because I was born wealthy."

"You weren't born wealthy, but you're about to be. Act like it, Tootz."

"Yeah Yeah." I gathered my composure.

Kayle produced a pristine invitation from his pocket. He handed it to me, motioning for me to lead the way into the mansion. "Go on, Selene, and know that I'm right behind you."