His Possession

5: The Ball

"I never knew my heart could beat so fast, until I met you"

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"You look absolutely stunning," Nova compliments me with a warm smile as she gracefully enters my room.

"Thank you, you do too."

I can't help but return the compliment, admiring her beauty. Nova is dressed in a gorgeous strapless blue dress that accentuates her figure, adorned with a subtle sparkle of diamonds at the top. Her curly brown hair, which is usually wild and free, has been expertly straightened, and her blue eyes stand out even more with the careful application of makeup.

In contrast, I've chosen a sleek one-sleeved black dress that enhances my curves, paired with elegant gold stilettos and a matching clutch bag. My preference for a more natural look is reflected in my choice of makeup. It's not that I judge or think less of girls who enjoy wearing makeup; I simply feel more comfortable and true to myself with a minimal approach.

"Let's go, the car is waiting for us," I tell her, grabbing my phone and keys and putting them in my clutch bag. My dad invited us to a ball he's hosting, but he didn't provide many details. All he said was that it's to introduce his new business partner to clients and the company. I was a bit miffed that he didn't even share the partner's name with me. As his daughter, I thought I deserved to know. Nonetheless, he instructed me to dress fancy, invite Nova, and be ready by eight p.m. for the car that would pick us up.

"Wow," Nova exclaims, marvelling at the elegantly attired guests entering the grand building. She's right; it's a sight to behold and screams exclusivity.

"Yeah, that's my dad for you—go big or go home," I reply, chuckling.

"The one and only Mr. Woods," Nova giggles back.

We share a moment of lightheartedness before stepping inside the immense building, which is as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside.

The ballroom's walls are painted in a soothing beige hue, complemented by brown hardwood flooring and exquisite chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. Beautiful paintings adorn some of the walls, and to the right of the ballroom, there's a small stage where my dad will likely make the announcement. On the left corner, a bar and food table await the guests, who are gathered in the center of the ballroom.

Descending the stairs, we each grab a glass of champagne offered by numerous waiters and get enveloped in the crowd of invited guests. "This place is stunning. Mr. Woods really went all out for this event. His new business partner must be someone important," Nova remarks, savouring her champagne. "Indeed, it seems that way," I reply, sharing her sentiment. We let the ambiance and the delicious champagne envelop us, enjoying the moment.

Suddenly, a familiar voice interrupts our conversation. "What are you two monkeys laughing at?" my dad asks, a hint of amusement in his voice. I turn around to see him, and a smile lights up my face. "Daddy!" I exclaim, happily leaping into his open arms. He catches me, his muscular frame reminding me that he's in good shape for his age. People often say I'm a female replica of my father, with his green eyes and black hair. The only physical trait I inherited from my mom is my nose and my skin tone.

After our warm reunion, my dad acknowledges Nova's presence with a playful banter. "You're still as crazy as ever, Nova," he remarks, chuckling. Nova, true to her nature, replies with a mischievous wink, "You know me, Mr. Woods. Just living life to its fullest." My dad shakes his head in amusement. "Only you, Nova. Only you."

As my dad prepares to make his way to the stage for his announcement, he reminds us to have fun and come say goodbye before we leave. We nod in agreement and assure him that we will. With a final kiss on my cheek, he makes his way towards the stage, leaving Nova and me in the bustling ballroom.