Chapter 106

• The gilded ballroom shimmered with the reflections of crystal chandeliers, their glimmering light casting an ethereal glow over the elegantly dressed guests who swirled about, caught in the music and laughter of the gala. Charlotte stood at the edge of the crowd, her laughter mingling with that of others, yet it felt hollow, a mere echo of what once was. She glanced back at Blake, who was deep in conversation with a few of their friends, oblivious to her growing unease.
• As the heat of the room began to press in, Charlotte excused herself, stealing away towards the restroom for a brief reprieve. The cool marble walls offered solace, and she splashed cool water on her face, hoping to revive the warmth that seemed to have flickered out. She needed a moment—an escape from the facade she wore so easily in public.
• But just as she composed herself, stepping back into the thrumming atmosphere of the gala, she felt a familiar presence draw near. Charlotte's breath hitched as she turned to see Damien standing there, his dark eyes roaming over her with an intensity that made her heart race—both with excitement and dread.