Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
There was a storm rolling in.
Not one of thunder or rain—but of camera flashes, too-loud music, and curated chaos.
The event was held at the rooftop of the Gramercy Hotel, a fusion of old money and new edge. Black-tie and avant-garde, the guest list was tighter than a Birkin clasp. Monet De Haan had ensured that.
Because tonight wasn't just any gala.
It was the night Monet would win Adelaide Kingsley back.
At least—that was the plan.
She had spent the past 72 hours orchestrating it all. The theme: "Power and Poetry." Monet's idea, naturally. Every detail was deliberate. The press were tipped off. Influencers were strategically planted. Adelaide's favorite designer had been flown in to tailor a custom dress for her "by surprise." Luna had called it insanity. Max had just raised a brow and asked for a drink.
Even Gossip Girl had caught wind early.
"Sources say the Queen Bee's lost her sting... but is planning a royal resurrection tonight. We hope it's love—but it smells a little like war. Xoxo."
Adelaide arrived late, her hair swept back, lips painted blood red. Diana was at her side.
The sight of them made Monet freeze mid-sentence.
Adelaide's dress was stunning—but it was the hand Diana had at the small of her back that made Monet's vision tunnel.
Not tonight.
Not when everything was meant to be perfect.
Monet abandoned her circle of admirers and marched across the floor. Heads turned as she passed, but she didn't care. She only saw Adelaide.
"Addie," she said, cutting between her and Diana like a blade of glass.
Adelaide blinked once. Cold. Distant. "Monet."
Monet didn't falter. "Come with me."
Adelaide let out a laugh. "Is this another performance?"
"No," Monet said. "This is real."
Before Adelaide could respond, Monet clapped twice.
The lights dimmed.
A spotlight hit the center of the rooftop.
Music stopped. Whispers bloomed.
"Everyone," Monet said, stepping onto the platform now drenched in white light. "Forgive the interruption. I know I'm not exactly known for... subtlety. But tonight, I need to say something."
Diana stepped forward, but Adelaide held her back with a glance.
Monet swallowed.
"Adelaide Kingsley. You are the most exasperating, stubborn, difficult person I've ever met."
