2 bahagian Cerita Lengkap MatangThe ballroom pulses with life, every corner bathed in a soft golden glow. Crystal chandeliers twinkle like stars above, casting a dreamlike sheen on the laughter and music swirling through the air. Every whisper, every glance is meant for me. I glide effortlessly through the crowd, my gown shimmering with every step, my smile poised, flawless.
Damien stands beside me, his presence grounding, a reassuring constant. "You look stunning," he says, his voice low, as always. I nod in acknowledgment, a smile playing at the corners of my lips. Everything is as it should be. Perfect.
As the countdown begins, I stand still, my posture impeccable. The rhythmic echo of voices Ten... nine... eight...wraps around me like a lullaby, every heartbeat in sync. I don't have to look; I know the eyes are on me.
Three... two... one...
"Bonne AnnΓ©e!" The cheers erupt like fireworks. Champagne flutes sparkle, laughter ripples through the air. The world shifts into its next chapter another year, another perfect moment. I raise my glass, feeling the delicate bubbles prickle against my tongue, savoring the taste.
But then, a strange feeling stirs in my chest. The glass in my hand suddenly feels too cold, the sweetness of the champagne gone, replaced by a sharp edge.
I smile, but it's more out of habit than joy. The laughter is still loud around me, but in the pit of my stomach, a faint unease lingers. I glance around the room, feeling eyes on me, though I don't know from where. Everyone's expressions are the same polite, perfect.
Damien's hand slips into mine, a gesture that should comfort, but it doesn't. Not this time.
There's something off, something hiding in the smooth surface of this celebration, and I can't place it. The music plays, but it sounds muffled now. The laughter is a little too sharp.
The champagne no longer sweet.
I take another sip. It doesn't change.