Kingsley Academy

Chapter 16

After the chaos in the kitchen, I retreat to my room to shower and get ready for the event. As the hot water runs over me, I can't stop replaying what just happened between Kade and me. The way his hand gripped my waist, the way his eyes darkened when we were inches apart... It's impossible to shake.

What the hell was that?

I should be focusing on the event. On making sure everything is perfect. But instead, all I can think about is how close we were—how, for a second, I thought we might actually kiss. The memory sends a shiver down my spine, and I force myself to push it away. It was just a moment. A stupid, heated moment. Nothing more.

After my shower, I sit at my vanity, running a brush through my damp hair. Normally, I'd straighten it to perfection, but tonight, I leave it in soft, natural beach waves that frame my face. The blushy makeup I apply is light and elegant—brown liner to make my blue eyes pop, a soft pink on my lips, and just enough blush to give me a healthy glow.

As I step into my dress, a sleek, off-shoulder gown that hugs my figure perfectly, I glance at my reflection one last time. I look good. Better than good. I look like the queen I'm supposed to be tonight, and no one—especially not Kade—is going to get under my skin.

I head down to the event, and as soon as I walk into the hall, I can feel the eyes on me. It's perfect. The soft glow of the chandeliers, the elegant table settings, the buzz of conversation as guests mingle—it's exactly how I envisioned it.

I scan the room, feeling a small wave of relief. Everything is in place. The new caterers are already at work, the guests are arriving, and even the decorations look flawless. For the first time in days, I let myself breathe.

Eric and Lily spot me from across the room, waving me over. "You look stunning," Lily says with a grin as I approach.

"Thanks," I say, glancing around the room again. "It's perfect."

Eric raises an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "You actually pulled it off, Allie. The event of the year."

I smile, allowing myself a moment of pride. Despite all the drama, despite the near-disasters, I did it. The event is flawless. And for tonight, at least, I'm on top of the world.

But as I scan the crowd, my eyes land on Kade, standing off to the side, talking to a group of people. He's dressed in a sleek black suit, looking as effortlessly put together as always, and for a moment, our eyes meet.

I don't know if it's the memory of what almost happened in the kitchen or the way he's looking at me now, but the tension between us is still there, simmering just beneath the surface.

I tear my gaze away, focusing on the event, reminding myself that tonight is about the charity, about showing everyone I'm in control. Not about Kade. Definitely not about him.

As the night progresses, I make my way through the crowd, accepting congratulations and compliments from various guests. Everyone's in high spirits, the event buzzing with energy, and I can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. It's exactly what I'd hoped for—a flawless evening.

A few students approach me, offering compliments as they pass by.

"Allison, this is amazing," one girl gushes. "Seriously, how did you pull this off?"

I smile, giving her a casual shrug. "Just took some planning. Glad you're enjoying it."

The compliments keep coming, and with each one, I feel a little lighter. Maybe things are finally falling into place. Maybe I can actually enjoy this night.

But then, out of the corner of my eye, I see Mr. Clarke approaching, a glass of champagne in his hand. I tense slightly, remembering the last time he was a little too friendly, a little too close. Something about him always sets me on edge.