Winter had tightened its icy grip on the world outside Mr. Lee’s estate. Snowflakes danced lazily in the frosty air, clinging to windows and blanketing the sprawling grounds in shimmering white. Inside, however, preparations for the grand winter gala were in full swing.
The mansion was alive with activity. Chandeliers sparkled overhead, their golden light illuminating the marble floors and the rich winter-themed decorations.
Guests were beginning to arrive, dressed in their finest, their chatter blending with the soft strains of music.
Sophia was in her room, putting the final touches on her look. The emerald gown she wore hugged her killer figure perfectly, accentuating her generous hips, large butt, and an elegantly curved bust that seemed sculpted to perfection.
The dress’s plunging neckline hinted at sensuality without losing its elegance, and the slit on the side of the gown revealed just enough of her toned legs to command attention without being overt.
She stood before the mirror, smoothing her hands over the silk fabric, her lips curving into a small smile. Tonight, she would blend into the crowd. No one would see her as just the maid, the secretary, or Samantha’s scapegoat.
But not everyone was pleased.
---
As Sophia prepared to leave her room, Penelope appeared in the doorway, her face twisted with jealousy. Dressed in a glittering silver gown, Penelope looked stunning—but next to Sophia, she felt invisible.
“Heading to the gala, are we?” Penelope asked, her voice dripping with false sweetness.
“Yes,” Sophia replied cautiously, brushing past her.
But before Sophia could make it far, Penelope grabbed her arm, pulling her back. “You think you’ll outshine everyone in that dress, don’t you?”
Sophia frowned. “What are you talking about?”
Penelope didn’t answer. Instead, she grabbed the delicate fabric of Sophia’s gown and yanked, the sound of tearing silk echoing in the room.
“Oops,” Penelope said, feigning innocence, though her smirk gave her away. “You should be more careful.”
Sophia gasped, her hands flying to the ripped fabric that now hung loosely around her waist.
Fury bubbled beneath her skin, but she refused to give Penelope the satisfaction of seeing her cry.
Penelope walked away, her heels clicking against the marble floor as she muttered, “Good luck finding another dress.”
Sophia stood frozen, staring at the ruined gown. She didn’t have time to dwell on Penelope’s cruelty.
If she didn’t act fast, she’d miss the gala altogether.
Crystal, who had been helping in the background, appeared moments later with a knowing smile.
“Don’t let her win,” she said, her voice firm.
“I have nothing else to wear,” Sophia said, frustration lacing her voice.
Crystal stepped forward, holding up a midnight-blue gown adorned with intricate beadwork that shimmered like stars under the light. “You do now.”
Sophia’s eyes widened. “Where did you get this?”
“I have my ways,” Crystal replied with a wink.
Sophia quickly changed, and when she stepped in front of the mirror, even she couldn’t believe what she saw.
YOU ARE READING
SMITTEN BY HER (unedited)
Romance"Beyond Shadows" In a world where darkness reigns, a young orphan's dreams of becoming a veterinarian are shattered by her aunt's cruelty. But when she's drawn into the mysterious world of enigmatic Mr. Lee - a powerful figure rumored to be "more th...
