CHAPTER 2. CHARITY GALA
Emily Cooper POV'
I settled into the plush salon chair, feeling pampered as my hairstylist, Mariella, worked her magic.
We'd known each other since I was six – she was hired by Christopher's father to keep me company during his business trips with his son.
After Christopher and I drifted apart, Mariella stayed by my side, becoming like a sister.
"So, are you sure you want to be a writer when you're older?"
Mariella asked, her dark eyes meeting mine in the mirror as she styled my hair into loose waves.
I nodded enthusiastically.
"Yes, I love writing like crazy! There's something about bringing stories to life that just draws me in. I feel like I'm creating entire worlds and characters – it's amazing!"
Mariella shrugged, securing my hair with a cute clip. "It's just... you have such a presence about you. With your beauty and lovely voice, you'd be a big hit in the entertainment field. You could be an actress, a singer – the options are endless!"
I rolled my eyes good-naturedly.
"Oh really? Or are you just trying to set me up with Christopher again? You know I've had a crush on him forever, but that doesn't mean I want to give up my dreams for him."
Mariella playfully pouted, looking like a teenager caught red-handed.
"And what's wrong with that? You like Christopher, he's a model – it's a win-win deal!
You two would dazzle together on camera. Just imagine the headlines: ' Childhood Friends Turned Power Couple Take Hollywood by Storm!'"
I had to admit, she had a point.
I had to admit, she had a point.
But I wasn't ready to give up on my dreams just yet.
"Even if I liked the idea, which I'm not saying I do... writing is my passion. I want to tell stories that touch people's hearts, make them laugh and cry. Entertainment is fleeting – books last forever."
Mariella smiled slyly.
"You can still write and be in entertainment, baby! Many stars write books or create content. Writing can be your side hustle – we have plenty of examples of people doing both successfully. Look at James Patterson, he's a bestselling author and has a production company too!"
She had me there. I looked at her silently, considering her words. Before I broke the silence.
"Why didn't you pursue a career in... let's say, PR or marketing? You're great with people and have a way with words – you'd excel in that field! You could work with celebrities, help them build their brands..."
She leaned back in the chair thoughtfully.
"Lack of interest, I guess. Plus, hairdressing lets me express myself freely – no company rules or client demands to worry about. Just me, my imagination, and words. But... I do love talking to people, hearing their stories..."
I nodded sardonically.
"Oh! Really, why am I getting a deja Vu."
Mariella giggled, rolling her eyes back at me.
Just then, she finished my hair and stepped back to admire her handiwork.
"All done, now hurry up and change. You don't want to keep everyone waiting, do you? Your crush dad's guests are arriving soon – including some big names from Hollywood..."
My heart skipped a beat. Could Christopher be among them?
My heart skipped a beat. Could Christopher be among them?
Why wouldn't he?
His dad is the organizer after all!
Just thinking of him bee here gives me the happy dance tumor...
But not now princess, hold your horses
I nodded, trying to play it cool.
"No, of course not. I'll get ready now, thanks Mariella!"
I hurried upstairs to my room, my mind racing with possibilities.
Christopher dad was hosting a charity gala tonight, and I was expected to attend. I'd heard rumors of some big celebrities coming – what if Christopher was one of them?
I pushed the thought aside and focused on getting ready.
My dad had designed a stunning evening gown for me – a floor-length, strapless beauty in midnight blue that hugged my curves perfectly.
I slipped it on, feeling like a princess as the soft silk brushed against my skin.
I added some statement jewelry – a bold silver necklace and matching earrings – and finished the look with a pair of high heels.
Finally, I sprayed on some perfume – a Hollen designer scent, ironically enough – and headed downstairs.
As I reached the bottom step, I saw my parents mingling with my uncle's.
My dad looked dashing in his tailored black tuxedo, his salt-and-pepper hair perfectly groomed.
My mom stunned in a red, off-the-shoulder gown that complemented her porcelain skin and dark hair perfectly.
They both turned to smile at me, and my dad gave me a warm hug.
"Wow, you look beautiful, sweetie! Tonight's going to be amazing – lots of great people here for a wonderful cause. And how lovely that the Hollens are hosting us at their estate tonight!"
My mom added, "Yes, dear, you look stunning. Christopher's father, Richard, will surely be impressed by your father's design skills – that gown is exquisite!"
I blushed at their compliments, feeling grateful for my parents' love and support.
We headed out to the car – a sleek, black limousine waiting by the curb.
My dad opened the door for us, and we slid inside, surrounded by luxurious leather and soft music.
As we glided through the streets, I gazed out the window at the passing scenery.
We were heading towards the elite neighborhood of Beverly Hills, where only the richest of the rich resided. Mansions with perfectly manicured lawns and sparkling fountains dotted the landscape, their grandeur awe-inspiring.
We turned onto Christopher's street – aptly named Billionaire's Row – and I felt my heart skip a beat.
The Hollen estate came into view, its sheer scale taking my breath away.
Towering palm trees lined the driveway, leading up to a majestic mansion with floor-to-ceiling windows, sparkling chandeliers, and a sprawling garden that seemed to stretch on forever.
The car stopped before the grand entrance, where a liveried doorman stood waiting to greet us.
My dad smiled, offering his arm to my mom, and they stepped out into the warm evening air. I followed, my heart pounding with excitement... and a hint of nervousness.
Would Christopher be waiting for us inside?