Juno’s POV
On the day of the gala, sunlight filtered through the curtains as I stood before the full–length mirror, my fingers tracing the intricate patterns on my silver gown. I felt both nervous and excited, my body humming with anticipation for the night ahead.
A knock sounded at the door, and Freya entered with news. ‘Matthew, Quinn, and Maddox have changed their minds. They’re coming to the gala after all, she informed me. “Just confirmed–last minute, of course.” She rolled her eyes. “Kieran’s still being stubborn though. He won’t budge.”
As I adjusted my dress, Amelia entered wearing an elegant onyx–black gown. Her makeup was flawless, jewels glittering at her throat and wrists, looking a decade younger than her actual age. Her presence immediately filled the room with an air of nobility.
She circled me, her eyes sparkling with approval. “You look like a goddess, my dear,” she said sincerely.
The heat rose in my cheeks at Amelia’s compliment. I glanced down, smoothing the silver mermaid dress against my curves. The halter neckline exposing my elegant neck and shoulders just as she’d mentioned. I took a tentative step forward, and the thigh–high slit on the left side parted, offering tantalizing glimpses of skin with each movement.
Crystal heels completed the look. My hair fell straight down in a center part, framing my face, while makeup enhanced my captivating eyes and full lips.
Amelia stepped closer, her tone becoming serious and determined. “Have faith in what you and my son share,” she said firmly. That girl has no good intentions, but I trust Augustin won’t betray you.”
Something in her eyes hinted at information withheld.
“What do you mean?” I asked, suddenly alert.
Amelia sighed. “I stopped Cassandra from seeing Augustin two days ago. Yesterday, I went to Goldenvale myself to warn her.”
My eyes widened. “What?”
‘She tried to see him before the gala,” Amelia explained, a hint of pride in her voice. “But I’ve given orders that no one is to be admitted except on the day of the gala itself–especially not Cassandra.”
She continued, “When I went to Goldenvale, I told her that Augustin has moved on and that you two are getting married. She cried, of course, but she needed to hear it.”
Amelia took my hands in hers, her voice soft but firm. “You just like my daughter. You are the only woman I want for my son. I will protect you and my grandchild.”
She reached into her pocket and pulled out an elegant box. Inside was a golden bracelet set with diamonds, identical to the one on her own wrist. As she fastened it around my wrist, I felt a rush of emotion, my eyes growing moist.
At that moment, Augustin emerged from the dressing room in a formal black uniform, golden buttons gleaming. His expression showed he had heard his mother’s words, his eyes filled with tenderness.
He approached me, winking playfully. “Forming alliances already, I see. His gaze traveled from the top of my head to my toes, desire flickering in his eyes. ‘You look absolutely stunning, Berry.”
“And you look incredibly handsome, my King.” I replied.
Augustin leaned down to whisper in my ear, “I can’t wait until this gala is over and I can have you all to myself. His warm breath tickled my earlobe, sending a shiver down my spine.
After one final check of our appearance, Augustin offered his arm. I placed my hand in the crook of his elbow, and we walked in perfect sync toward the door, leaving Amelia watching with a satisfied smile.
The ballroom was magnificent, crystal chandeliers casting a soft glow over the polished marble floor. Hundreds of elegantly dressed guests turned to look as we approached the entrance.
1/2
Chapter 187
Presenting King Levenston and Lady Juno,‘ the announcer proclaimed as we appeared in the doorway nataly, all canetason temat, and an the room focused on us.
We walked forward slowly, and I could feel the weight of everyone’s admiring gazes. I straightened my bark, projecting the uniter who engatak it me, though inside I remained nervous, my fingers tightening slightly on Augustin’s sum.
Among the crowd, I noticed Matthew standing alone in a corner. He looked like a different person thinner, with an underey bed and water rys the clothes, while formal, seemed slightly disheveled. Isabelle was nowhere near him as he drank champagne with a vacent stre
Not far away, Maddox and Quinn were also present, glaring at their ex–wives who were with their new partners, Maddox’s knees were wide scored fo glass, while Quinn kept taking large swallows of alcohol, clearly trying to suppress his anger. Neither had brott dates, expregory
Augustin and I were led to the main table, set with fine china and fresh flowers. Our table included the Eets, Gamma, and their parters, Seam was cream–colored gown, while Freya had chosen a bold red. Both looked radiant, their eyes twinkling with mischief as if they knew what tosite might bring
Amelia sat nearby, winking at me and subtly touching her bracelet in a gesture of support and encouragement.
Alpha guests lined up to pay their respects to Augustin, Bryloch, and Adryx, a formal and dignified procession. Each Alpha brought us and said the respects, showing deference to their hosts.
When Matthew’s turn came, he bowed deeply. “Good evening, King Levenston,‘ he said respectfully, then turned to me, a complex emotion flashing in his eyes. “Good evening, Lady Juno,‘
I maintained an elegant smile, politely responding, ‘I hope you enjoy our hospitality, Alpha Matthew. My voice remained steady, showing no judgment of his current state.
Meanwhile, Quinn and Maddox openly refused to join the line, instead heading to the terrace outside. As Maddox passed Bryloch, he shot him a hostile glare, his jaw clenched, clearly suppressing strong emotions.
The gala proceeded smoothly. The orchestra played an elegant waltz, and Augustin and I danced in the center of the floor, drawing admiring glances. We mingled with various guests afterward, being perfect hosts.
After several dances, I felt somewhat tired, and Augustin thoughtfully escorted me back to our table. Our friends and Amelia were no longer at the table. likely dancing or conversing with other guests.
Just then, the ballroom doors opened again, and a late arrival entered, a beautiful blonde woman in a pale yellow gown with an elaborate updo. Her appearance caused a wave of whispers and sidelong glances. She walked deliberately, her high heels clicking distinctly on the marble floor.
The woman surveyed the ballroom, her gaze eventually settling on Augustin. Simultaneously, I noticed Augustin staring at her, his expression becoming focused and distant, as if captured by some memory or emotion.
I didn’t recognize this woman, but from Augustin’s reaction and the whispers around us, I had a sinking suspicion about who this late arrival might be. My heart dropped.
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