Unlawful Shadows | +18

Chapter 13

Elowen's POV

The grand ballroom sparkled with golden hues, a luxurious testament to opulence. The walls adorned with gilded decorations echoed the laughter and clinking of glasses, creating an atmosphere of wealth and extravagance.

I stood next to Zephyr, smiling politely as he was engaged in conversation with one of his clients. He leaned casually against the intricately designed bar, his tailored suit emphasising his commanding presence.

The client, an aged well-dressed man with an air of elegance, inquired, "Zephyr, how confident are you about reaching a favourable resolution?"

They must know each other personally. No one else has used his first name to talk to him.

Zephyr's piercing gaze met the client's, his voice resonating with authority. "I'm confident that we can secure a deal that benefits us. Whether they choose to take it to court or settle it, we'll be getting the better end."

The old man nods, patting Zephyr's shoulders. "I knew I could trust you, my boy. It's been such a pleasure to see you grow into the fine man you are today."

Zephyr glanced at me almost bashfully before subtly urging me towards the extravagantly decorated table, holding a spread of delectable bites.

Is he getting shy?

I nodded, giving the other man a polite smile before navigating my way through the sophisticated crowd.

Never thought I'll get to see Zephyr getting embarrassed.

The ballroom was alive with chatter, the soft melodies of the orchestra setting the perfect backdrop for the elegant affair. As I approached the snack table, my eyes feasted not only on the tantalising treats but also on the breathtaking spectacle of the golden-themed decorations. Trays of delicate canapés, towers of glistening desserts, and champagne flutes filled with effervescent bubbles were a feast for the senses.

My gaze locked onto the snacks when a familiar voice cut through the ambient noise. "Elowen, is that really you?" The sneering tone was unmistakable.

Fuck, why did I have to run into her?

I sighed, before fixing back the polite smile onto my face as I turned. There she stood, in all her glory. Alison.

She positioned herself a few steps away, adopting a sneer that did little to enhance her surgically altered features. Time had not been kind to her, and the continuous injections of Botox were evident on her face.

Alison's eyes widened momentarily as she scrutinized me from head to toe, absorbing the details of my attire for the event. Her voice, dripping with envy, sliced through the air, demanding, "What are you doing here?"

Be nice, Elowen.

Unfazed by Alison's hostility, I replied calmly, "Attending an event, Alison. What about you?"

Alison scoffed, "Like you belong here. Look at that dress, that bag and all that jewellery. Are you whoring yourself out? There's no other way a worthless little shit like you could be here otherwise."

Funny, sounds like she's describing herself.

She continues, sneering. "You're so fucking greedy. You could've given Mom extra money this month if you had enough to buy all that. So fucking ungrateful. Don't for a second think I won't be telling Mom about this."

I calmly retorted, "I'm here because I was invited through work. I'm working, you know, at Tenebris & Associates."

She scoffs, her voice getting whinier. "So what? You're just an intern, and you got lucky. There's no way they would hire someone like you. They probably took pity on you and let you in. Everybody takes in strays from time to time, you know, like charity. Besides, Mommy is going to make sure you won't be there long."