𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬

Chapter 5: A Night to Remember

~

Sofia took a deep breath and made her way down the grand staircase of the Petrova mansion. Her heels clicked softly against the marble steps, the sound echoing in the quiet hall. Dmitris watched her from the top of the stairs, his curiosity piqued but respectful of her privacy.

As Sofia stepped outside, the cool evening air greeted her, providing a brief respite from the whirlwind of emotions inside her. Alexei's car was parked at the foot of the steps, its sleek lines illuminated by the soft glow of the mansion's exterior lights.

Alexei stepped out of the car as she approached, his eyes widening slightly in appreciation. He quickly composed himself, a charming smile spreading across his face.

"Sofia, you look absolutely stunning," he said, his voice warm and genuine.

Sofia felt a blush rise to her cheeks, her earlier confidence wavering under his gaze. "Thank you, Alexei. You look quite dashing yourself."

He opened the car door for her, a gentlemanly gesture that made her heart flutter. As she slid into the passenger seat, she caught a whiff of his cologne-an intoxicating blend of cedarwood and citrus that only heightened her nerves.

Alexei rounded the car and slipped into the driver's seat. He glanced at her again, his eyes filled with unspoken admiration. "I'm really glad you agreed to come with me tonight."

Sofia smiled, her blush deepening. "Me too."

The drive to the gathering was filled with light conversation, their words mingling with the soft hum of the car engine. Sofia found herself relaxing in Alexei's presence, her earlier tension melting away with each passing moment.

When they arrived at the gathering, the sight of the elegant venue took Sofia's breath away. Jordan and his wife had spared no expense, the hall adorned with twinkling lights and lavish decorations that exuded a sense of grandeur.

Alexei parked the car and quickly moved to open Sofia's door. He offered her his hand, helping her out of the car with a grace that made her heart skip a beat.

As they walked towards the entrance, Alexei leaned in slightly. "You know, I think you might just be the most beautiful woman here tonight."

Sofia's blush deepened, a soft smile playing on her lips. "You're too kind, Alexei."

They entered the hall, the sound of laughter and music filling the air. Sofia felt a mix of excitement and nerves as they made their way through the crowd, greeting familiar faces and exchanging pleasantries.

As the evening progressed, Sofia found herself constantly aware of Alexei's presence beside her. His gentle touches, the warmth of his smile, the way his eyes seemed to seek her out in the crowd-it all made her feel special in a way she hadn't felt in a long time.

At one point, they found themselves standing at the edge of the dance floor, watching as couples twirled and swayed to the music. Alexei turned to her, his eyes filled with a playful glint.

"Care to dance?" he asked, extending his hand towards her.

Sofia hesitated for a moment, her heart pounding in her chest. But as she looked into his eyes, she felt a sense of courage she hadn't expected. She placed her hand in his, allowing him to lead her onto the dance floor.

As they danced, Sofia felt as though they were the only two people in the room. The world around them faded away, leaving only the rhythm of the music and the warmth of Alexei's embrace.

"Have you always lived in Moscow?" Alexei asked, his voice soft against her ear.

"Yes, my whole life," Sofia replied, looking up at him. "It's a city that's hard to leave."