Mr.Brightside

chapter 133

 The Gala Begins

The Council House gleamed in the soft glow of lights strung across its newly renovated facade. The steady hum of conversation and soft music drifted into the crisp autumn air as guests arrived, dressed in their finest attire. Clara stood at the entrance, shaking hands and exchanging warm greetings, her smile practiced but genuine.

Inside, the transformation was breathtaking. The main hall glittered with elegant decor: cascading floral arrangements, softly lit candles, and tables draped in white and gold linens. Volunteers weaved seamlessly through the crowd, offering glasses of champagne and trays of hors d'oeuvres. The silent auction area had already drawn a small crowd, with several guests eagerly perusing the items.

Jack lingered nearby, watching Clara as she navigated the arrivals. His admiration for her grew with every passing moment. Despite the long hours, sleepless nights, and weight of responsibility, she carried herself with an effortless grace.

"You good?" Tanya's voice broke through his thoughts.

Jack turned to see her holding two glasses of champagne, offering one to him.

"As good as I'll be until we hit our goal," Jack replied with a grin, taking the glass.

Tanya smirked. "Well, let's hope tonight pulls through. Clara deserves a win."

Jack nodded, his gaze returning to Clara. "She really does."

Clara finally stepped inside, her cheeks already sore from smiling, but her spirits high. She scanned the room, taking in the sight of so many familiar faces. There were neighbors, local business owners, and even a few out-of-town donors who had taken an interest in the Council House.

The band began to play a soft jazz tune, filling the space with a lively yet sophisticated energy. Clara's heels clicked against the polished wood floor as she made her way toward the auction area.

"Clara!" A cheerful voice called out, and she turned to see Mrs. Hargrove, one of the town's longest-standing residents, waving enthusiastically.

"Mrs. Hargrove, you look stunning," Clara said, embracing the older woman.

"And you, my dear, look like a movie star," Mrs. Hargrove said, her eyes twinkling. "This is quite the event. You should be very proud."

"Thank you," Clara said, her voice warm. "It's all thanks to everyone's support."

Mrs. Hargrove leaned in conspiratorially. "I've already bid on three items in the auction. I've got my eye on that hand-carved rocking chair."

Clara laughed. "I hope you win it. It would look perfect in your sunroom."

As the evening progressed, Clara found herself moving from group to group, thanking donors, answering questions, and ensuring everything ran smoothly. Jack stayed close enough to intervene when needed, often stepping in to give her a moment to breathe.

At one point, he handed her a glass of water, his expression teasing. "Drink this before you pass out. You're running on adrenaline."

Clara accepted it gratefully. "You're my lifesaver tonight, you know that?"

"Just doing my part," Jack said with a wink.

Nearby, Tanya gave the signal that it was almost time for the speeches. Clara felt a flicker of nerves as she made her way to the small stage at the front of the room.

Jordan adjusted the microphone as Clara stepped up, the room quieting as all eyes turned to her. She took a deep breath, her hands steadying themselves on the edges of the podium.

"Good evening, everyone," she began, her voice clear and steady despite the butterflies in her stomach. "I want to start by saying how grateful I am to see so many of you here tonight. Your presence means more than I can put into words.

"The Council House has been a part of our community for generations. It's witnessed countless celebrations, provided shelter in times of need, and brought people together in ways that only a place like this can. When we began this journey to save it, we weren't just fighting for a building—we were fighting for what it represents: connection, resilience, and home."

She paused, her eyes sweeping across the room. "This journey hasn't been easy, but it's been worth every moment. And tonight, we're closer than ever to our goal. With your help, we can ensure that the Council House continues to stand for generations to come."

Applause erupted, warm and encouraging. Clara smiled, her confidence bolstered.

"Now, I won't keep you from enjoying the rest of the evening," she continued, "but I encourage you to explore the auction, enjoy the music, and most importantly, celebrate what we've accomplished together. Thank you for being here tonight."

The rest of the night unfolded in a whirlwind of laughter, music, and generosity. The auction items drew competitive bids, the dance floor filled with couples swaying to the band's tunes, and the donation table saw a steady stream of contributors.

Jack found Clara near the auction area, her face glowing with the success of the evening.

"You've done it," he said, his voice quiet but full of pride.

"Not yet," Clara replied, though her smile hinted at hope. "But we're close."

Jack reached out, his hand brushing hers. "Closer than ever. And it's because of you."

She met his gaze, the warmth in his eyes grounding her. "Because of all of us," she said softly.

As the gala wound down and the last guests filtered out, Clara stood in the empty hall, surveying the aftermath. The decorations still sparkled, but the room felt quieter now, filled only with the echoes of laughter and music.

Tanya approached, her clipboard tucked under her arm. "Preliminary numbers are in," she said, handing Clara a sheet of paper.

Clara scanned it, her breath catching as she saw the total.

"We did it," she whispered, tears welling in her eyes.

Tanya grinned. "We did it."

Jack appeared behind them, his hands in his pockets. "So...what's next?"

Clara turned to him, her smile radiant. "Next, we build a future."

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933 words