𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐕𝐨𝐰𝐬

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟑𝟕

ELENA

As I stand in front of the mirror, I carefully adjust the shimmering silver gown, the fabric catching the light just right. Tonight's charity event is important, and I want everything to be perfect. I apply a final touch of lipstick, the deep red contrasting beautifully with my dress. Just as I step back to admire my reflection, my phone buzzes on the vanity.

It's Olivia. I answer with a smile, knowing her no-filter commentary will either boost my confidence or make me laugh. "Hey, Olivia!"

"Hey, babe!" Olivia's cheerful voice comes through the speaker. "Getting ready for the big night?"

"Yeah, just finishing up," I reply, twirling a bit to see the full effect of the dress. "How's it look?"

"You're gonna knock them dead, sweetie," she says with enthusiasm. "That dress sounds killer. Is it the one we picked out last month?"

I grin, feeling a swell of affection for my cousin. "Yep, that's the one. You have a great eye, as always."

Olivia chuckles. "I know, right? Gotta keep you looking fabulous, especially for all those fancy events Zade drags you to."

I laugh, feeling a little more at ease. Olivia always has a way of making everything feel less daunting. "Yeah, it's another one of those. But it's for a good cause, so I can't complain."

"Of course, sweetie," she replies. "So, what's the plan for tonight? Schmoozing with the elite and sipping champagne?"

"Pretty much," I say, smoothing out an imaginary wrinkle. "It's a charity gala for one of Zade's deceased relative's husbands. A lot of important people will be there."

"Sounds intense," Olivia says, her tone suddenly serious. "But you've got this. Just remember, you're a queen, and no one can outshine you."

I smile, touched by her words. "Thanks, Olivia. It means a lot to hear that."

"Anytime, babe," she replies, her voice softening. "Oh, and don't forget to have some fun too. You deserve it."

"I'll try," I promise, giving my reflection one last look. "I should probably get going. The car will be here any minute."

As the call is winding down, Olivia suddenly switches gears, her tone becoming playful and direct. "By the way, babe, how are you holding up without Zade? I bet it's been tough, especially at night, huh?"

I blush, caught off guard by her boldness. "Yeah, I miss him a lot."

Olivia laughs, a knowing edge in her voice. "I bet you do. And I'm not just talking about missing his company. It must be hard not getting any, you know, release."

"Olivia!" I exclaim, my cheeks burning with embarrassment. "That's... very forward."

"Come on, sweetie, we're adults here," she continues, unabashed. "It's only natural to miss the sex, too. I mean, you two have always been hot for each other. Don't tell me you're not feeling the lack of... physical connection."

I laugh awkwardly, trying to deflect. "Well, it's definitely different."

"Different? I'm sure it's more like torture," she teases. "But hey, distance makes the heart grow fonder, and the body... well, you know. Just hang in there. Maybe you can use that pent-up energy to make the gala even more memorable."

I shake my head, laughing despite myself. "You're impossible, Olivia. But thanks for the... encouragement."

"Anytime, babe," she replies, her tone light and affectionate. "Just remember, absence makes the reunions steamier. So when Zade gets back, you can show him just how much you missed him."