Whisper Destiny

Chapter 7

~ Natasha ~

I was on my way to the New Year's Eve party hosted by my family. I chose to ride with Chase alone rather than with my parents to avoid the attention from reporters. Personally, I'm not a fan of them.

I had learned my lesson with reporters in my early teenage years. Back then, they often captured me at my worst, never hesitating to cross the line for a sensational story. Now, I made a concerted effort to stay out of their spotlight.

In fact, I hadn't been in the spotlight for years, ever since I went abroad to pursue my studies. Thanks to my father for sending me away which I despise before, but it was a decision that ultimately proved to be for the best. It was during this time that I met Nick, which was an unexpected bonus. Oh, I miss Nick so much by now.

According to the plan, my parents would arrive at the venue early to play the role of gracious hosts. I was certain that Cate would be by their side as well.

They just wanted me there to complete the 'happy family picture' for Grayson, I believe.

"Natty, I'm nervous. There are going to be so many famous people from fashion industries. My heart isn't ready for this. Tonight, I might even meet my future boss," Chase rambled.

"Oh God, how do I look?" He could be so exasperating, sometimes.

"You cleaned up nicely tonight, Chase. That tux looks great on you," I reassured him, hoping to calm his nerves.

"Doesn't it? Thanks to Cate," he smiled, satisfied with the compliment. During the fitting, he hadn't been able to stop talking about how grateful he felt towards Cate and how talented Cate is.

"You look stunning too, Natty. It's Nick's loss for not being here with you. There will be plenty of men eager to be your date tonight," he said with a big grin on his face.

"Thanks, Chase," I replied, glancing at my reflection in the car's rearview mirror. I had to admit, I did look beautiful, but I still don't want to acknowledge that Cate play a big role on this.

The dress I wore tonight was designed by Catherine Ortiz specifically for me. It was a black and nude tulle creation with a sculptural neckline and shoulders, a cut-out waist, and intricate beading and sequins. The dress highlighted my slender figure and made me feel both elegant and confident. The delicate beadwork caught the light with every movement, casting a subtle shimmer around me.

My long, chestnut brown hair was styled in soft waves, cascading down my back, complementing the dress's sophisticated allure. I wore a pair of diamond drop earrings that sparkled like stars, drawing attention to my graceful neck. My makeup was flawless—smoky eyes that hinted at mystery, and lips painted a deep, inviting red.

As I stepped out of the car, I could already feel the eyes turning toward me. Without, warning, all the cameras turn to me to capture the moment. Tonight, I would undoubtedly attract attention, and, I hope I'm ready to embrace it.

They need to know that, I was no longer the reckless teenager splashed across tabloids; I had transformed into a woman who commanded the spotlight with poise and elegance. But either way, I couldn't care less.

Chase and I were quickly escorted inside as the attention from reporters and onlookers became overwhelming. The flashing lights and murmured conversations swirled around us.

"Please save me, tonight!" I prayed silently, taking a deep breath before walking inside to find my parents.

Inside the main hall, the air buzzed with a distance voices, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. The room brimmed with influential figures, most of them engaged in fervent discussions with Grayson. Amidst the crowd, my parents stood out effortlessly, their presence commanding attention like a lighthouse in a stormy sea.

"Let's go, Chase. I just need to greet my parents quickly, then we can slip away and find something more interesting to do. I don't want to be tethered to them all night," I said, tugging Chase towards my parents.

"There you are, my lovely daughter," my father's booming voice silenced the immediate vicinity, drawing every eye in the room toward us. My mother turned, her face lighting up as she enveloped me in a warm hug, my father following suit.

"You look absolutely stunning tonight, darling," my mother beamed, her eyes sparkling with pride.

"Yes, you are. The most stunning, after my wife obviously," my father echoed, his smile wide.

"Let me introduce you to my daughter, Natasha Grayson" my father proclaimed to his circle of friends and business associates.

Compliments flowed like wine, I basked in the attention for a few moments before slipping away. Looking for something to eat. I hadn't eaten much all day, having been preoccupied with preparations for the evening, and now my stomach grumbled in protest

Scanning the room, I noticed the absence of Cate. It was unlike her to miss such an event, but I just let it slipped my mind. The food is more important to me right now.

As I made my way towards the buffet, I could feel the eyes of men on me, but I wasn't interested. I knew they only sought my attention because of my status as a Grayson.

Lost in thought, I realized I had lost sight of Chase. He must have wandered off. Just as I began to search for him, I saw a commotion near the entrance of the hall.

I didn't care much until Cate, the woman I despise most, caught my attention as she stepped grandly into the room, making her way toward my parents.

As she stepped into the grand ballroom, all eyes were drawn to her as if by magnetic force. She wore a breathtaking yellowish-white dress, totally opposite of me. The fabric shimmered like liquid sunlight, flowing with every movement she made as though it were alive. The neckline plunged tastefully, framed by tiny, sparkling gemstones.

Her waist was cinched by a band of the finest silk, emphasising her slender figure. Her hair, a radiant blonde, was styled in low wrapped bun that sat elegantly at the nape of her neck.

She moved with the confidence of one who knows her worth, her every gesture a symphony of poise and charm.

I knew she was a successful fashion designer and businesswoman, but tonight made me realize just how immense her influence truly was. Cate wasn't just a designer; she was a trendsetter, a force in the industry whose creations dictated fashion seasons.

My parents exchange greeting with her and she just greet everyone else casually. Most of them just waiting for the opportunity to have a time to talk to her.