The Masked Ball
RENEE
SOME DAYS LATER
“Ma’am, raise your chin slightly. We’re almost finished.” The makeup artist gave me instructions, and I followed them exactly.
The woman was quick. As she brushed my face and smoothed the stray hairs, I looked in the vanity mirror, taking in my appearance.
Today was the masquerade Robert had been invited to, and I was being primed and prepped for the occasion.
His hotel suite’s bedroom had been converted into an intimate dressing room, and various stylists and makeup artists were on hand to attend to my every need. It felt like this event was more for me than for him or us.
What else could I expect from our first official outing as a couple?
Of course, he’d want to go all out. A shiver ran down my spine as I wondered if I’d fit in with his world.
A world that screamed wealth, extravagance, and grandeur.
I had doubts, but I’d give it my all for him and us tonight.
The vibrating sound of my cell phone drew me out of my reverie. Muttering an apology to the beautician, I pulled my phone from my clutch purse and checked the caller ID.
It was my mother calling.
As I accepted the call and put the phone on loudspeaker, I greeted cheerfully, “Hi, mama! How are you doing?”
“Good day, sweet girl. I’m wonderful. How are you doing?”
“I’m doing great.”
“I called Nicole, and she told me that the nice gentleman you’re dating is taking you to a party.”
“Woah, Mother!” I exclaimed, feeling a flush rush up my cheeks. “I… Yes, that’s right.”
“So, are you already at the party?”
“Not at all. I’m in his suite getting ready and-”
“Is that your mother?” Robert’s deep voice cut through my conversation as he entered the room, and I froze instantly.
When he saw me, he smiled, and his gaze lingered on me for a moment longer than necessary before flickering away.All content is © N0velDrama.Org.
“Your mother?” He asked again, walking toward me. I waved my hands, attempting to wave him away, but he paid no heed.
“Who’s there?” My mother asked.
“Mother…” I trailed off, trying to persuade Robert to leave the room, but he refused.
Instead, he leaned over and whispered something to the makeup artist and stylists nearby, making them hurry out of the room in a flash.
“I can hear his voice. What’s his name again? Robert or what?” My mother’s cheerful voice broke through the silence, and my embarrassment rose another notch.
Robert grinned at me. I could tell he enjoyed my discomfort, but he didn’t stop talking.
“It’s Robert, ma’am. How are you doing?” He asked, his voice warm. His hand brushed past mine as he grabbed my phone and held it to his ear.
I listened as he engaged in a charming conversation with my mother, turning off the speaker, and my heart swelled.
My mother seemed to like him already, and I could tell he liked her too from how he was grinning from ear to ear, looking so boyish and handsome.
They were getting on so well already. I liked that-a lot.
“Sure, sure. We’ll visit soon. I need to see the face of the woman who gave the world my angel….”
I rolled my eyes at his teasing, and he flashed me an easy grin before adding, “I think she has nothing pressing to discuss with you, right?”
“Not really.” I shrugged.
“Alright.” He said and returning his attention back to the phone call, he bid his farewell.
“Bye, ma. See you soon.”
“See you soon too, my dear.” My mom replied, and Robert laughed heartily, before hanging up.
“I see you’ve already made friends with my mother.”
“Of course. She sounds nice….” He paused, leaning over and touching my shoulders lightly, “Just like you.”
“Rob…” I breathlessly called out, and he chuckled, straightening.
He placed his hands in his pocket and asked, “You’re almost done, right?”
“I suppose so. You’ve already sent the stylists away, so all I have to do is apply my lipstick, and I’m ready to go.”
“All the better for us. Stand up. Let me admire your dress.” He commanded gruffly.
I stood up feeling stiff. My gaze was locked on the mirror, and I watched him admire my gown.
“So beautiful and all mine.” He mumbled against my neck, kissing my sensitive skin gently, trying not to ruin my makeup. “I love you, Renee. So so much.”
My stomach fluttered as I felt his hot breath tickle my skin.
“I love you too, Robert…” I started to say something, but before I could finish, I felt his hands on my waist. He pulled me toward his chest, and our bodies merged.
“Now, before we go, I have a present for you.” He whispered in my ear, and I gasped.
“What? What is it?” I asked, already dizzy and excited.
“Please, close your eyes.” He ordered. I immediately obeyed, my chest thumping in anticipation.
I flinched as I felt something metallic on my neck, but he steadied me with his hands and whispered gently in my ears.
“Open your eyes, baby girl.”
“Woah!” I blurted in surprise at the sight of the necklace, and my hands lifting, I ran my fingers over the exquisite beauty clasped around my throat.
The jewelry was made of silver metal, studded with green diamonds, and a matching gemstone was set just above my collarbone.
Robert was staring at me intently, taking in my reaction. I smiled at him, my eyes glassy.
God! What have I done to deserve this man?
“Thank you very much, Robert. This… it’s lovely.”
“It is, indeed. And it’s even more beautiful on you.” His husky voice made me shiver, and I turned toward his chest, my fingers playing with the cool smoothness of his leather jacket.
“I love it. So much. Thank you very much, Robert. I can’t begin to express my gratitude.”
“You don’t need to say anything. You’re not required to do anything. Just be by my side today, and let’s make the most of this magical evening, shall we?”
“Okay. Alright.”
“Good. Where’s your mask?” He asked. I pointed at the bed where two intricately designed masks had been laid.
Picking them up and handing the more feminine one to me, he kissed my right knuckles and said reassuringly, “You’re going to look amazing at the gala, baby girl.”
“I know.”
“Good. Now, let’s go.”
With one last kiss and one last look in the mirror, we exited the suite and the hotel to the limo waiting outside.
Tonight, was going to be special. That much I knew.
I knew there’d be a slew of cameras trained on me and a swarm of eager paparazzi peppering us with questions. Robert warned me, but I was prepared. I’d undoubtedly handle them.
It wouldn’t be too difficult, and I felt safe enough to continue with the man I loved by my side every step of the way.