Stay With Me

Chapter 14: Breaking the Mask

Lily sat in her car, parked a few blocks away from the Patterson mansion. Her fingers drummed against the steering wheel, a rhythm of anticipation mixed with a touch of anxiety. The night was still, but inside her chest, her heart pounded like the distant, rolling thunder of a coming storm. She glanced at the digital clock on the dashboard: 7:45 PM. It was almost time.

The invitation had been sent two weeks ago, carefully crafted to look like it came from a prominent socialite eager to host a charity gala. The cause was noble, the event exclusive, and the guest list was curated with precision. But this was no ordinary gala. It was the perfect stage for Lily's next move in her plan to dismantle Sophia's perfect world.

Sophia had received her invitation with enthusiasm, thinking it was another opportunity to flaunt her influence and mingle with the city's elite. Little did she know, the event was orchestrated entirely by Lily, under the guise of her new identity: Elena Devereux, a powerful businesswoman who had recently emerged in high society. Sophia, ever eager to maintain her status, had eagerly RSVP'd with a plus one—David.

As Lily stepped out of her car and walked towards the venue, she could feel the weight of her past lighten with every step. Tonight, she wasn't the invisible orphan overshadowed by her sister's radiance. She was Elena Devereux, a force to be reckoned with, and Sophia's perfect mask was about to shatter.

Inside the grand ballroom, the soft hum of conversation mingled with the gentle clinking of glasses. The decor was lavish, with chandeliers casting a warm glow over the elegantly dressed guests. Waiters in crisp uniforms moved fluidly through the crowd, offering champagne and hors d'oeuvres. Everything was set to perfection, mirroring the high standards Sophia expected in her social circles.

Lily stood at the entrance, her eyes scanning the room. She spotted Sophia immediately, standing in a cluster of admirers. She wore a stunning red gown that hugged her curves, her hair styled in cascading waves that framed her flawless face. She laughed effortlessly, a charming sound that drew people in. David was by her side, his arm draped possessively around her waist, a perfect accessory to her perfect image.

Lily moved through the crowd, exchanging polite greetings with the guests. She had carefully chosen each person in this room, ensuring that they were either influential, gossipy, or both. Tonight's event would be the talk of the town, and Lily intended to ensure that what unfolded here would be impossible to ignore.

As she approached Sophia, Lily put on her most dazzling smile. "Sophia, darling! You look stunning tonight."

Sophia turned, her smile broadening at the sight of the supposed influential newcomer. "Elena! I'm so glad you could make it!" She extended her hand, which Lily took, shaking it firmly.

"Of course. I wouldn't miss this for the world," Lily replied, her tone sweet yet edged with a subtle challenge.

Sophia gestured towards David. "This is my fiancé, David."

David extended his hand, his grip firm but unremarkable. He looked at Lily with a hint of curiosity. "Nice to meet you, Ms. Devereux. I've heard quite a bit about you recently."

"All good things, I hope," Lily replied, her eyes lingering on David just long enough to make him shift uncomfortably. "It's a pleasure to finally meet the man behind such a successful woman."

Sophia beamed at the compliment, soaking in the admiration. "David is wonderful. I'm so lucky to have him."

Lily raised her glass. "To lucky breaks and perfect lives," she said, her voice dripping with irony that went unnoticed by everyone except David, whose brow furrowed slightly.

The evening progressed with the usual pleasantries, the clinking of glasses, and the murmurs of superficial compliments. Sophia was in her element, moving gracefully from group to group, her laugh echoing across the room like a perfectly rehearsed melody. Lily followed her, not too closely, observing her interactions, waiting for the right moment.