SERENDIPITY

~32~ The Gala And The Proposal ✔️

"Oh my, Mia. This is absolutely stunning," I exclaimed, my voice filled with awe as I gazed at my reflection in the mirror.

The makeup was breathtaking, with smokey eyes that gave me a badass allure, a look I was more than happy to embrace. Mia expertly straightened my dyed hair, allowing the locks to beautifully frame my face.

I slipped into a form-fitting green bodycon dress that accentuated the vibrant hue of my eyes. The dress boasted an open cleavage and a back that plunged down to my lower back—yes, it was quite daring, I admit. Completing the ensemble, I adorned myself with an emerald necklace, earrings, and bracelet. A pair of black stilettos and a sleek black clutch bag rounded off the look.

Satisfied with my appearance, I checked myself once more before grabbing my phone and tucking it securely into my bag.

"Ethan must have been waiting for ages, you know?" Mia remarked, a small smile gracing her face.

"I know," I replied, returning her smile. "I hope you have a wonderful time with your mom, grandma, and dad."

"Thanks, I'm sure they'll be here any moment now," she said, glancing at her phone for any missed calls.

It had been a week since the whole drama unfolded, and now it was finally Friday evening—the night of the gala. Mia's relationship with her family was gradually improving, or so it seemed.

"Adrian won't be joining?" I asked, a tinge of disappointment evident in my voice.

"He mentioned he had some urgent business to attend to, so he'll meet us tomorrow at the country house," Mia shrugged, her expression reflecting her own bewilderment.

I couldn't help but wonder what could be more important to Adrian than a family gathering.

"Hmm," I murmured, contemplating his absence. "In that case, I should get going." I pulled Mia into a warm hug.

"Make sure to call me right after the event, okay?" she requested.

"Of course," I replied, releasing her and making my way towards the door.

"Have a great time," she called out as I closed the door behind me.

With my grandparents enjoying a lavish dinner at a five-star hotel sponsored by Mia's parents, they would be spending the night there, I presumed.

"Hey," I called out softly as I entered the living room.

Ethan tore his gaze away from his phone and focused it on me. His eyes dilated, darkening with an unknown emotion as they swept over my appearance.

"Hey," he responded breathlessly, his voice tinged with anticipation.

He rose from his seat and approached me, his magnetic presence commanding my attention. I took a moment to fully appreciate his appearance. His hair, intentionally tousled, added to his effortless charm. Clad in a sleek black suit, the fabric hugged his well-defined biceps, revealing his muscular physique. A green bow tie, mirroring the color of my dress, adorned his white shirt, which peeked out from under his tuxedo. Completing the ensemble were a sophisticated Rolex watch and polished black shoes.

Damn! This guy is undeniably attractive.

"Oh, now you're realizing it, Raquel?" my inner voice teased.

I silenced the inner voice with a scolding thought.

"You look absolutely stunning," he complimented in that same breathless, deep voice, his finger trailing from my temple down to my cheeks with deliberate slowness.

"You don't look too shabby yourself," I responded, surprisingly breathless as well.

What was happening to me?