Cassandra de Ville

Chapter 3

After 10 years

"Cassandra, you're late," Rayan's voice echoed through the doorway, a familiar annoyance in his tone.

"Just a minute," Cassandra replied, her reflection in the mirror a portrait of composure. She smoothed down her outfit, adjusted her makeup with practiced precision, ensuring every detail was perfect. She had a party to slay tonight and to prove her existence.

Stepping out, Cassandra found Rayan already dressed, his impatience evident in the furrow of his brow. But as his eyes met hers, they widened in surprise, a testament to her meticulous preparation.

"You look stunning," Rayan breathed, his gaze lingering on her. Cassandra smirked, knowing she had succeeded in capturing his attention.

"You're the one delaying us now," she teased, breezing past him and descending the staircase to the front porch.

"Right, let's go," Rayan said almost running down the staircase and opening the door of the SUV for her. She slipped inside, and he settled opposite her, immediately engrossed in his phone, barking orders without pause. But Cassandra couldn't shake the feeling of unease creeping over her.

"Hmm, enough orders, Rayan. Who's in charge here, you or me?" she quipped, a playful challenge in her voice.

Rayan rolled his eyes, a hint of frustration flickering across his features. "As if you act like one," he retorted, striking a nerve.

"Back off, Rayan. I'm doing my best," Cassandra shot back, her facade cracking ever so slightly.

"I'm sorry, Cass. I didn't mean it," Rayan apologized, sensing he had overstepped.

"It's okay," Cassandra replied, though the tension lingered between them, unspoken words hanging heavy in the air.

"How's Madeline doing?" Cassandra asked, changing the subject, a feeble attempt to ease the tension.

"She's doing well. I miss her, though. She's in Paris," Rayan replied, his voice softening at the mention of his so-called girlfriend.

Cassandra nodded absentmindedly, her mind drifting elsewhere. "Any sign of a boyfriend yet?" Rayan ventured, attempting to lighten the mood.

Cassandra scoffed, crossing her legs defiantly. "You know I'll never find one. Men can't handle me."

"Duh, men can't handle you. What do you think I'm doing? Babysitting you?" Rayan quipped, a hint of exasperation in his tone.

Cassandra rolled her eyes, a familiar pang of frustration tightening her chest. "Shut up for god's sake, Rayan," she muttered, the weight of her sister's absence heavy on her heart.

"Well, we are here," Rayan announced, stepping out of the SUV and holding the door open for Cassandra. She smoothed down her flowing red gown, feeling a surge of confidence as she emerged from the vehicle.

"How do I look?" she inquired, turning to Rayan, who was already scanning the surroundings for any potential threats.

"You look absolutely dashing," Rayan replied, tearing his gaze away from the perimeter to offer Cassandra a genuine smile. Encouraged by his compliment, Cassandra returned the smile, grateful for his unwavering support.

Together, they made their way towards the entrance, Cassandra's heels clicking against the pavement in rhythm with Rayan's measured steps. As they approached the grand doors, she couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within her. Tonight was more than just an event - it was an opportunity to assert her presence, to prove herself worthy of the role she had inherited.