ZARA [On HOLD]

Boys Will Be Boys

Confidence in a woman is like a low-key superpower. When she's got it, things just start falling into place. Life flows a little smoother, people notice her differently, and suddenly, she's got this vibe that makes things happen without her even trying. It's not loud or in-your-face; it's subtle but solid.

Guys might lean on physical strength or even a little aggression to leave an impression, but women? They know it's all mental. They don't need to push-just knowing how to own their space is enough. It's that quiet confidence, a kind of power they can tap into without making a big show of it. And somehow, the universe just plays along to the aura they giving off.

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At the door of the Mansion, a man in a tight, tailored suit-definitely Italian, judging by his accent and that smirk-stood ready, looking over at the confident, approaching Mareba like he'd been expecting her and her companions all night.

"Ahh! Madam, you look lovely this evening," he said respectfully. His hair was slicked back, adding to his charm, and he opened the door with a bit of a bow. Mareba didn't even need to flash an invitation-he just let them through, no questions asked. It was as if he sensed Mareba wasn't someone you questioned.

Mareba gave him a quick nod, accompanied by a calm smile that barely touched her lips. Her heels clicked softly against the marble floors, echoing in the grand entrance. The lobby was elegant-white marble everywhere, soft lights reflecting off the polished surfaces. There were spiral staircases twisting up the second floor, and a grand ballroom entrace at the far end, guarded like a crown with jewels by another door keeper. Waiters in crisp white shirts and black bow ties moved through the lobby, going up and down, balancing trays with champagne glasses.

One of the waiters caught sight of Mareba and practically jogged over with his tray balanced steadily in his hand. "Good evening, my dear madam," he greeted, a bit breathless but keeping his posture. "Would you care for a drink?"

Mareba offered a friendly smile as she reached out to take a glass without breaking stride. "I'd like to imagine my friends want to make an entrance too" she said, making it clear that she expected nothing less than VIP treatment for all of them.

"Ladies?" He offered to Tasha and Ava.

Ava grabbed her glass, already sipping before the waiter could say anything else, "I ain't gon' miss out on nothing tonight," she muttered.

"Girl I'm with you on that", Tasha took a glass as well. "Haters ain't ever been in places like this"

"Mmmh", Ava agreed as she gulped the entire drink. She placed the tray down before reaching for another to hold on to. "Thank you, honey" she flashed the waiter a quick smile.

The waiter nodded politely and went ahead with his journey. As they approached the main doors to the ballroom, another Italian doorkeeper stepped up. "Queen and servants, may you enjoy the evening," he said respectfully as he let them in, but his eyes flashed with amusement.

Tasha shot a him a look, "Servant my ass," she muttered, rolling her eyes she followed Mareba through the doors.

The ballroom was like a scene straight from a dream. High ceilings, chandeliers shining with crystals, guests in designer gowns and tailored suits, young and old mingling like they were in some club. The atomosphere hummed with light piano playing in the background and clinking of glasses and light chattering. The second Mareba stepped in, heads turned. And with Tasha and Ava by her sides, it was like the whole room paused just to take them in.

"Alright ladies," Mareba whispered through her tightly held smile, "Put on those smiles, and enjoy the party"

Mareba then slipped into the crowd like she'd been waiting for this all month. Old friends pulled her aside one by one, laughter hovering everywhere. She floated through conversations with ease. Her smile was warm and gentle, but her eyes kept scanning to make sure her girls were handling themselves.