The Contract

Chapter 162-The Vega's Place

I walked back to the mirror to take in my outfit, I was changed into the black dress Kourtney bought for me, the one I manipulated her into buying.

The was a long black off the shoulder dress with sleeves, my hair in a neat bun. I was ready, though I was late. The event began at 7 but it was already 8 pm.

Before I could round up things and head back, it was already. But anyways I was done now and I needed to know Travis's whereabouts. I didn't know if he was back from Chicago but he promised he'll be back to make it to the event.

I sat on the bed, putting on my heels while I dialed on his number and called him. It went straight to voicemail and I hissed. Here we go again.

Why does he have a phone if he never uses it? Where was he? Could he still be in Chicago?

I tried again but it resulted in the same thing. This is why I never make plans with him, he's bound to fuck you up. I sighed and got up, grabbing my bag before heading out of the room.

I can't let him get to me, today was for Bella. I should be happy for her for achieving her dreams, nothing should ruin this.

I got down the stairs while typing a text to send to him, at least he would see this. Abel opened the door for me and I headed out, pulling the door to the car, I got in before he followed sooth.

"Abel wait" I stopped him, glancing back and hoping he would drive in any second. I was having the smallest flicker of hope, that he would turn up, maybe remember.

But after a minute, there was no sign of him, I fell back on my seat and said. "Let's go"

The ride to the location was a quiet one. Another reason I didn't want to wind up alone for this event was because the whole family was gonna be there. They were gonna bomber me with questions—especially my Mother.

Once we approached Vega's Place, I noticed the cars parked outside and the people. "Oh my gosh!" I heaved.

It was real, it had come to life, everything she has ever dreamt off had come to life. I was more than proud of her, I was genuinely happy.

Abel pulled up by the side but I still lingered on the seat, staring out, too scared to go out and ruin the moment. Why was I scared once again? I wasn't gonna turn the car around and leave, I wasn't gonna do that again.

I was supposed to be here for Bella, so I needed to go in. I finally mustered up the courage and stepped out of the car, adjusting my dress. Abel shut the car and led me up to the pavement, I shot him a bright smile before picking up the dress and heading to the entrance.

The grand double doors of Vega’s Place opened, and I stepped inside, immediately swept into a whirlwind of opulence and energy. The air buzzed with laughter, clinking glasses, and the soft murmur of conversations, all underscored by the gentle strains of a live string quartet in the corner.

The interior was a masterpiece of sophisticated design—polished marble floors gleamed beneath the soft, golden glow from crystal chandeliers that hung like jewels from the ceiling. The warm light shimmered over the guests, illuminating their elegant attire in hues of black, navy, and gold.

My eyes were immediately drawn to the sleek, long bar on her left, where impeccably dressed patrons mingled, sipping champagne from delicate flutes. Waitstaff glided between them, their black suits and white gloves polished to perfection. Each table, draped with white linens and set with gleaming crystal and silver, was alive with animated conversation, the vibrant energy of the opening night bringing the entire room to life.

The walls were adorned with large, abstract paintings in deep tones of gold and burgundy, framed in sleek black, and oversized mirrors reflected the laughter and animated gestures of guests, adding to the space’s sense of grandeur. Fresh floral arrangements were placed strategically throughout the room—tall vases of orchids and roses, their delicate scents mingling with the mouthwatering aroma of gourmet dishes emerging from the open kitchen.