Chapter 3 - THE LION'S DEN
We didn't sneak back in. Nikolai signaled a nearby security guard, and the massive double doors to the Halston Hotel ballroom were thrown open with a thunderous crack. The music, a soft classical waltz, abruptly halted. Hundreds of eyes turned toward the entrance. I stood tall, my arm looped perfectly through Nikolai’s, his imposing presence amplifying my own. We walked down the grand staircase not as guests, but as conquerors.
Julian was at the center of the room, still holding Serena’s hand, soaking up the congratulations of the sycophants. When he saw Nikolai, his smug smile faltered. When he realized whose arm Nikolai was holding, his face turned the color of ash. My parents stood frozen by the champagne fountain, my mother’s glass slipping from her fingers to shatter on the marble floor. The sharp sound echoed in the dead silence.
Nikolai didn't stop until we were inches away from my ex-fiancé and my sister. “Julian,” Nikolai said, his voice carrying effortlessly across the silent room. “I see you’ve made a decision.”
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“Nikolai, what is the meaning of this?” Julian sputtered, his eyes darting frantically to me. “Why is she with you?”
“Evelyn was meant to be a Moretti tonight,” Nikolai announced, turning slightly to address the stunned crowd, his grip on my waist firm and possessive. “And she will be. Just not with a boy who plays with stolen rings. Evelyn and I are engaged. And unlike my brother, I know how to treat a queen.” Serena let out a pathetic gasp, stepping back as if physically struck. My father stepped forward, his face red. “Evelyn, what are you doing? Have you lost your mind?” I met my father’s eyes with absolute ice. “I’m taking your advice, Father. I’m doing what’s best for the family. And my new family is the one that actually wants me.” Nikolai smiled, a predator showing its teeth, and kissed the side of my head. The flash of reporter cameras outside the glass windows exploded like fireworks. The war had officially begun.
