His Nepenthe | complete

17. Real

R E A L A N D F A K E

*

I stared at myself in the mirror, a deep embedded scowl on my lips.

I made sure that I stayed separated from my mother's life as much as possible, but sometimes, she had ways of making sure that I would act like an accessory to her reputation. Subtle threats to do with Marco were her favourite to use against me.

Those times where my appearance was 'necessary' included benefit balls or charity galas, which were more for those going than who they raised money for.

But the money that they did raise was for good charities, picked by the daughter of the main funder in the foundation my mother was a part of.

The girl, Elise, I had only met twice in my life, both when I was much younger. From then, I either just hadn't seen her, or she wasn't there, and was actually doing something instead of playing around with money to get other people to do things.

The last time I saw her, I'd have to say, was when I was twelve. She'd been nice enough then.

So many things had changed from those years ago.

I hated the parties more than I thought I'd ever be able to, the expensive tuxedo I was made to wear one of the worst things I'd ever seen.

Though it was plain, black and white, it screamed at me so many things.

Rich piece of shit being the main phrase. Too tight being another.

"Christian! It's time to go!" Clarisse shouted from downstairs, her tone revealing just how insecure she was about making sure she was somewhere on time.

Reputation, reputation, reputation.

I groaned, trudging to where my mother stood, checking her appearance in the mirror that hung in the hall.

She turned as she saw my reflection behind her, an approving smile on her lips. She was only genuine when it came to image, "You look nice."

"Thanks."

The next hour was filled with silence as we were driven to the gala. I stared out the window, watching as the world moved by.

When we arrived, I was unsurprised to see press standing in organised lines outside the venue. I walked in behind my mother, pausing every time she decided was the perfect time for a photo.

"Clarisse! Christian! It's so lovely to see you!" A woman greeted instantly as soon as we entered the ballroom that had been rented for the party.

"Nora! It's been just forever, hasn't it?" Clarisse replied in her most charming voice. Nora was a woman that Clarisse had played like a violin. The other woman had no idea just how toxic my mother could be, especially if she wasn't getting what she wanted from you.