Chapter 156

Guests fill the event hall tonight. Ecstatic classical music is being played by a live quartette, and I see many unknown faces. Some of those who have attended are our friends and even acquaintances of friends. I recognize a few even with masquerade masks on their faces. Family members I know back in Athens, Alayna’s siblings in Arianna’s care, her family, but I mainly observe the media. The press, journalists, and reporters are all jammed in one place.

Alayna’s still in the dressing room with Casey, preparing for the night’s program. I am wearing the matching suit for her evening gown tonight—a custom-made black and white suit with fabric that feels light as a feather.

“Brandon,” Oliver greets me with a shoulder pat. He wears a gold mask covering his eyes and an Armani blue tux.

“Thanks, man.”

“Hey, I missed that mask.” He grins. I am wearing the same one.

Daphne stands next to him, holding a black sequined mask attached to a stick.

She extends a brief hug in a gesture of politeness and says, “Congratulations, Brandon.”

“Thank you, Daphne. Where are your parents?” I ask.

“They’re over there.” She points to the crowd on our right side. “I’m clinging to Oliver because that’s what they want—selling me in this stupid marriage,” she complains.

Ollie is right. She really is something else.

“You have two options. You can leave now or stay here and be quiet.”

Daphne raises her eyebrow. “So you can flirt with Selena? No, thank you.”

Oliver shuts his eyes. I see impatience in his expression. They really do clash.

“This isn’t the right place to do this, Daphne,” Ollie fires back. “We’re not in the penthouse.”

She growls. “Ugh. Whatever.”

“All right, guys. Calm down,” I intervene. “We have cameras around us,” I remind. And I was right. She really breaks his peace. It’s a new sight from Oliver, but it needs serious attention.

He takes a deep breath. “I’m sorry, man.”

“Sorry, Brandon,” she apologizes.

“That’s okay. Have you seen grandfather?” I ask, looking around the area again, but I catch Cassius and his father, Uncle Aegeus.

“Oh, he’s not here yet, but he will be. He arrived in Seattle this afternoon. He’s still probably in the hotel,” Oliver says.

I nod, checking the time. It’s only a matter of minutes before the party starts.

A photographer approaches us. “Mr. Lucien, Mr. Katrakis. May I take a picture?”

I glance at his ID, and it has the brand of FOCUS on it—a variety magazine based in LA.

“No problem.” I slip my hands into my pocket and pose while Oliver and his fiancée step next to me. The photographer snaps two pictures, thank us, and then leaves.

I look for Cary and Stan, but I haven’t found them yet either. I need to speak urgently about something with them. Meanwhile, I spot some distant cousins who have recently moved to the states. Astra and her brother Egor—their father is both a Stavros and Katrakis but married an American woman.

“Brandon!” Astra hugs me.

“Egor, Astra. Glad you two came.”

She pats my arm. “Of course. I wouldn’t miss it for the world! I see you’ve chosen an American too, huh?” She grins.

I grin back. “Why don’t you tell Egor that? I heard he’s met someone too.”

“Nah. She’s new.” Egor laughs. “Congratulations, Bran.”

We shake hands. “Thank you.”

Astra hugs me again and squeals. “I’m so excited for you! I can’t wait to see your bride! Where is she?”

“She’s with Casey. You’ll meet her soon.”

“Oh!” She clasps her mouth and looks at me dreamily. “I bet she’s beautiful,” she mumbles.

“Excuse, Mr. Lucien?” An event hall staff holding a radiophone abruptly cuts in.

“Yes?”

“She is ready, sir. Miss Hart shall wait for you backstage.”

“Thank you. I’ll be there.” I turn to Ollie and the rest and excuse myself. I rush to the backstage area, where I finally see the most beautiful woman I know, next to my supportive sister and best friend.

I already see Alayna in the dress, but it still feels like it’s the first time I’m seeing it. She let her hair fall on her shoulder, and her face is even more beautiful now with a light tint on her cheek and delectable mouth.

I can’t wait for the world to finally meet her.

“Brandon.” Casey smiles kindly at me. “You look very handsome.”

“Thank you, Casey.” I pull her against me. “For everything you did for us.”

I feel her rub my back. “Oh, come on. Let’s not cry. I’ll ruin my makeup.” She wipes her eyes with her fingers. “I have been waiting for this for so long, and now you two are finally here.” She releases me and then embraces her best friend. “Alayna, don’t cry too much, okay? You ruin your mascara.”

Alayna laughs. “I know. Love you, Case.”

“I love you too,” Casey replies, then steps aside.

“So shall we?” I murmur, offering my beautiful fiancée my arm.

“Yes. I’m ready.” She clasps her hand in mine.

“We’re the hosts tonight, just to remind you.” I grin, then lightly pinch her small nose.

She laughs. “Honestly, I’m nervous.”

“But I’m with you.”

“You’re with me, yes.” She takes a deep breath and straightens her stance. “I’m ready.”

I take her hand, and slowly, we step onto the stage.