I pressed my hand on my dress as I stared at my reflection from the mirror. My expression is calm, controlled, and confident, but my heart beats like a drum out of nowhere.
Is it anxiety?
Nervousness?
Excitement?
I don't usually get excited. Happiness is equivalent to sadness—excitement equals chaos.
The glow of the golden light welcomed me as soon as I stepped inside the grand hall. Crystal chandeliers illuminates the party like it was meant to be a symbol. Symbol of luxury and wealth.
"Thought you're not coming down." My cousin stated after I settled next to him, watching everyone at this party.
I didn't say anything. I kept my expression neutral, my breathing calm. My eyes landed on a woman who entered the grand hall like a wave. Like a beautiful paint made for spectacle.
She gracefully walked like she owns the place. Like her heels recognise a pattern when it hits the marble floor. Her black silk dress wrapped her body like it's sewn on her skin. The neckline dips in a clean V exposed enough to hold attention. The dress falls to the floor trailing slightly behind.
"Here's your little miss show stealer." Juan whispered enough for me to hear. I took a small breath before marching away from my cousin and approached the maiden who came in.
Our eyes locked while striding towards her. A beautiful grin escaped her lips holding the same intense gaze at me.
I didn't smile back. I didn't show any expression, but something tugged in my chest because of that smile of hers.
I don't know what it meant.
Or maybe,
I do. I just refuse to recognise it.
"You're late." I monotone. Her smile didn't leave her lips.
"You know I love making an entrance." Her voice holds mischief. Too sultry for my liking.
"This isn't a show, Aiah."
"Everything is a show, Mikha. You just have to enjoy it."
"You're impossible."
"And yet, you agreed to marry me." She casually stated. I clenched my jaw, but refused to show emotions. I turned and started to walk. I know she's following me. She always does.
"I was practically forced." I replied coolly.
"No one can force you on something, Mikha. At least that's what I know."
"You know less."
"Yes, but I intend to know you more," I halted on my steps and looked at her. She stood in front of me, her voice lace with challenges. Her eyes show interest.
"Sino ka sa likod ng maskara mo?" Her voice lowered. She moved closer, enough for me to smell her perfume. "Sino ka behind your power and control?"
My hands formed a fist beside me. I clenched it so hard that I could feel my nails digging in.
"Kita na lang tayo mamaya." She gleefully stated like she didn't threaten to unravel me. She walked past me and started mingling with people.
I let out the breath I've been holding for who knows how long. I unclenched my hands and looked at it. It has deep marks but not enough to produce blood.
*****
"Hindi ka ba nag-aalala na baka may umagaw sa asawa mo?" Juan asked as he makes himself comfortable sitting beside me on our table.
