Chapter 4: Public Announcement
Elara adjusted the hem of her sleek black dress, her nerves bubbling beneath her skin. She stood in front of the full-length mirror, trying to convince herself that tonight was just another performance.
Just another lie.
The silk clung to her like a secret, the heels made her taller than her confidence, and the diamond necklace around her neck felt like a leash.
Killian stood by the door, checking his watch. "Ready?"
"Do I have a choice?"
He smirked. "Not tonight."
They arrived at the Langston Hotel, where the city's elite waltzed through gold-trimmed doors like royalty. Cameras flashed. Voices buzzed. Elara's stomach twisted.
"Smile," Killian murmured, placing a steady hand on the small of her back. "The wolves are watching."
They stepped into the spotlight.
A wave of gasps followed them.
Killian Blake, the cold billionaire no one could touch, and a woman no one recognized—now his wife.
Reporters surged forward.
"Mr. Blake, who is she?"
"When did the wedding happen?"
"Is this a merger marriage?"
Killian didn't answer. He only pulled Elara closer, a smug half-smile on his lips. Her heart pounded like a drum. She was just a pawn, but tonight… she looked like a queen.
Inside the ballroom, champagne glasses clinked and false laughter filled the air.
Elara tried to breathe.
"You're enjoying this," she hissed under her breath.
"I'm using this," he corrected. "Like you said you wanted."
Before she could respond, a tall, willowy blonde approached them with a glass of wine and a poisonous smile.
"Killian," she purred. "I didn't realize you'd moved on so quickly."
Elara felt her stomach drop.
"This is Vivian," Killian said casually. "My ex-fiancée."
Of course.
Vivian turned to Elara, eyes scanning her like a threat. "Congratulations, Mrs. Blake. I see you upgraded from scandal to strategy."
Elara smiled sweetly. "Funny, I was thinking the same about you—from heartbreak to bitterness. Must be exhausting."
Vivian's smile cracked, but she didn't speak again. She only gave Killian one last look before walking away.
Elara leaned closer. "Is there anyone in this room who doesn't hate you?"
Killian sipped his drink. "Only one. And she doesn't remember why."