I was always the second choice — the shadow, the secret daughter. I watched her savor the image I built for her, watched her take everything from me without a second thought — my paintings, my boyfriend, and now… my life.
I thought being married to him would finally change my life. But I was wrong… He was cold and unbearable. Yet, for some reason, I couldn’t ignore the strange feeling I had toward him. His cold gaze made me feel safe instead of scared. And every time he was around… I wanted to run into his arms.
Little did I know that he would become the most important person in my life. I was falling for him.
And now my so-called sister wants him, too. But this time… I won’t let her take what’s mine.
Chapter 1
I adjusted my thick, black-rimmed glasses, squinting to get a clearer view of the woman speaking on stage. Catching my reflection in the glass wall beside me, the striking similarity between us couldn’t have been more obvious.
That was what they always made sure I remembered.
Even though a few people still complimented me, despite my simple, casual dress at this grand event, I could never believe I’d ever stand out the way she did. And honestly? I didn’t want to outshine the woman of the hour.
“Thank you all for coming to my event,” Celeste Everhart, my sister, said, adopted sister to be exact. Her sweet, melodic voice echoing through the grand hall.
I smiled a bit. I’ve always adored her voice — soft, confident, and charming. Everything about Celeste was captivating. She exuded confidence and grace that people couldn’t help but love.
That I can never do or be. So, I silently support her from the side.
“Tonight marks the start of something new in my life. I want to thank my father, who has always supported me in everything I do. At first, designing was just a hobby, but I realized it was my true passion. And I’m grateful to have parents who guide me every step of the way.”
Celeste’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she turned toward our mother, Ophelia Everhart, who was already dabbing at her own eyes. The audience applauded, the sound filling the room.
Everyone was mesmerized by Celeste—her elegance, her beauty, her perfect figure—everything about her.
“And, of course, to all of you. I couldn’t have done this without your support. I hope that opening this boutique will bring me even closer to all of you.”
And then, there it was—that radiant smile that could light up the entire room. Celeste thrived on admiration, on the envy she stirred in others. She lived for it.
Everyone adored Celeste Everhart, the only daughter of Simeon and Ophelia Everhart. A star admired by all.
Unlike me.
Eloise Everhart. Always in Celeste’s shadow. A woman destined to stay in the background.
As expected, the event went perfectly. Celeste was the star. And I, as always, was invisible.
—
After the event, I quietly gathered Celeste’s belongings, stopping now and then to take sips of water and nibble on the bread I had prepared this morning. I hadn’t eaten or even drunk anything all day, and my throat was so dry that I almost choked when I finally took a gulp of water.
Coughing, I tried to dislodge the piece of bread stuck in my throat when a voice suddenly spoke from behind me.
“Are you okay?”
I jumped, spinning around to see Celeste approaching me. For a second, I was frozen. Even off the stage, she still managed to shine.
Her silk dress clung perfectly to her curves, and the light caught the sparkle of her diamond earrings as she walked closer.
Something I could never be.
I cleared my throat and tried to steady myself. “I-I’m okay, Sister. Thank you for asking.”
Celeste smirked, raising an eyebrow as she crossed her arms.
“Well, you should be. I don’t want you dying here, Eloise. My boutique just opened, after all.”
I fought the urge to grimace. The sweet, demure persona Celeste showed the world was nothing like the person she was behind closed doors.
And there was nothing I could do but endure it in silence.
“Yeah… You did well, by the way. Everyone loved you. Congratulations on your new boutique!” I forced myself to sound cheerful.
Celeste’s smile grew, but the glint of amusement in her eyes told me she wasn’t fooled.
“Of course they did! Duh. Who wouldn’t love me, Eloise? Use your brain, will you?”
The smile slipped from my face. “Yes. Sorry.”
“And did you see how amazed they were by my designs? They absolutely loved them!”
I stiffened.
Yes, I had seen their admiration. I had heard their praise. But it was all based on a lie.
Because those designs were mine.
The gowns showcased tonight had been made by my hands. But what did it matter? Our mother had made it clear—I was to hand them over to Celeste.
“O-Of course. They loved it.”
Celeste stepped closer, her face just inches from mine, her eyes narrowing.
“You know it’s mine, right?” she whispered, her voice soft but laced with threat.
I blinked, feeling myself shrink under her gaze, even though we were the same height.
Before I could answer, the door to the dressing room opened, and one of Celeste’s assistants stepped inside.
“Miss Everhart, your car is ready.”
Celeste straightened up, brushing imaginary dust off my shoulder like I was something dirty.
“You know, Eloise, you should stick to what you’re good at—staying in my background. My shadow. Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll actually make something of yourself. But I doubt it. You’ll always be nothing.”
Her words cut deep, and when she finally walked out, I was left standing there, hollow and trembling.
My legs gave out, and I sank onto the nearest stool, trying to catch my breath.
It had been like this for years.
And maybe people would wonder why I stayed. Why do I put up with it?
But I didn’t have a choice.
The Everharts had been my lifeline. They had taken me in when I had no one.
I still remember the day I met the Everhart family.
I had just turned eighteen, aging out of the orphanage. But even then, I couldn’t leave the place that had raised me, especially when a fire destroyed it shortly after I left.
I had been working multiple part-time jobs to support Mother Celine’s hospital bills while putting myself through college. The orphanage had some sponsors, but it was never enough.
Mother Celine had been more of a parent to me than anyone else. I loved her dearly.
It was pure coincidence that I met the Everharts—an accidental food delivery to their estate. Ophelia Everhart noticed my striking resemblance to her daughter, Celeste.
At first, I didn’t believe it. I was nothing like Celeste. But when Ophelia dressed me up like her daughter, the resemblance was undeniable.
That was when she made me an offer I couldn’t refuse.
They would adopt me, and in return, I would pretend to be Celeste in public when she couldn’t be bothered.
Celeste had always been reckless—skipping important events, disappearing for wild nights out. Ophelia needed someone to step in and maintain their perfect family image.
I had refused at first. I was terrified, unfamiliar with their world. But when Ophelia promised I would remain invisible, only stepping in when needed… and when the orphanage burned down, and Mother Celine needed surgery…
I had no choice.
And so I became Celeste’s shadow.
The other Everhart daughter.
The one the world wasn’t supposed to see.
I exhaled shakily and shook my head, forcing myself to finish packing Celeste’s things. I was almost done when my phone buzzed with a reminder.
“Oh, gosh!” I gasped.
How could I forget? I had planned to surprise Adrian today!
I hurried out of the building, stopping at a nearby bakery to buy his favorite cake.
Adrian Duvall—my long-time boyfriend. We had been together since our fourth year of college. He had always been my rock, my support when no one else was.
He was the only one who made me feel loved. Seen.
And now, it was my turn to support him.
Adrian had just been hired at Everhart Enterprises—his first step toward his dream of becoming one of the world’s top CEOs.
I couldn’t have been prouder.
With the cake in hand, I took a taxi to his apartment, using the spare key he had given me long ago.
But the moment I stepped inside, something felt… off.
The lights were dim. The scent of his cologne lingered in the air.
And then I heard it.
A soft, muffled sound. A moan.
My heart pounded as I moved toward the bedroom.
And I saw it.
My hands trembled as the world around me shattered.
The silk gown I had carefully picked for her earlier lay crumpled on the floor, along with the heels and stockings I had so thoughtfully prepared for her.
The boxers I had gifted him were discarded near the door, the shirt tossed carelessly beside them.
Their clothes were scattered across the floor — a damning, undeniable mess.
Celeste’s golden hair spilled across the pillows as she clung to Adrian—the man who had promised me forever. And his arms were wrapped around the woman who had already taken everything from me.
Chapter 2
I stood frozen in the doorway, my breath caught in my throat.
It felt like my head was swelling, my vision narrowing as I stared at the bed.
It was like a nightmare—except I was wide awake.
How could they do this to me?
Celeste was the first to notice me. She lifted her head, an infuriatingly slow smirk curling her lips, as if she found the entire situation amusing.
“Oh, look who’s here.”
Adrian turned to face me, and for a second, I expected guilt, maybe even surprise. But he didn’t flinch.
Not even a little.
Instead, he leaned back lazily, his lips curving into a smirk as he adjusted the blanket draped over his lower half, not even bothering to cover himself properly.
“Eloise,” he drawled, amusement lacing his voice. “I didn’t expect you to come here. You should’ve texted me first.”
His voice was light, casual—like I was nothing more than a minor inconvenience.
The cake box slipped from my hands, landing with a dull thud on the floor.
But the real mess, the real disaster, was sprawled across that bed.
My breath came in short, ragged gasps as I looked at them through tear-blurred eyes.
“W-Why?”
The word barely made it past my lips.
“What is the meaning of this? How could you two do this to me?!”
Adrian barely spared me a glance before exhaling in boredom.
“Do I really have to spell it out for you, Eloise?”
He turned to Celeste and pressed a lazy kiss to her forehead.
My breath hitched. My hands wouldn’t stop trembling.
“H-How could you do this to me, Adrian? You… you promised me.”
My voice cracked, the tears I’d been desperately trying to hold back spilling over.
Celeste rolled her eyes, looking more annoyed than guilty.
Adrian sat up, slipping into his boxers with frustrating ease, as if my presence didn’t even matter—as if my entire world wasn’t collapsing around me.
“You should understand by now,” he said, stretching lazily. “I only approached you to get closer to Celeste. I never loved you.”
I stumbled back a step. “B-But… you cared for me, Adrian. You promised me! We had plans! Was it all a lie?”
He chuckled.
“Of course it was. Why would I ever settle for a substitute like you?”
The words sliced through me, each one sharper than the last.
I had loved him. I had built my future around him. And it had all been for nothing.
“I was just lucky you looked like Celeste,” Adrian continued, shaking his head like the whole thing was some kind of joke. “At least you resemble her, but nothing beats the original, huh? So why would you ever think I actually loved you?”
My breath stalled.
I had given him everything—my time, my trust, my heart—and he hadn’t even cared. Not even a little.
Celeste let out an exaggerated sigh, tossing her hair over her shoulder like the conversation had already gone on too long.
“Ugh! Come on now, Sis! If you don’t have anything else to say, just leave! Adrian doesn’t want you. He never loved you. What more do you need to hear?”
She smirked.
My fingers curled into fists.
For one brief, dangerous second, I imagined lunging at both of them. Letting the raw anger consume me.
They deserved it. They deserved every ounce of pain they had just poured into me.
But instead of lashing out, I turned on my heel and walked away, forcing my legs to carry me out of that apartment before the lump in my throat swallowed me whole.
I walked for what felt like hours, the city lights blurring into a haze around me.
How stupid had I been? How blind?
I had spent years loving Adrian. Supporting his ambitions. Believing in his dreams as if they were my own.
I had fought for us—for our future—only to be discarded like I was nothing.
And Celeste?
My perfect, golden sister. Always the center of attention. Always the one people adored.
But I had never hated her for it. I had accepted my role in the background.
But this betrayal was too much.
She already had everything, yet she still took the one thing that made me happy.
By the time I reached my apartment, my hands were trembling with exhaustion, my feet aching from the long walk. I barely had the strength to push open the door before slumping onto the couch.
Then my phone vibrated in my pocket.
I didn’t want to look.
Didn’t want to see a message from him. Or her.
But when I did, the name flashing across the screen made my stomach twist.
Celeste: Don’t be too upset, Sis. We’ll have a surprise for you later. Just think of it as an exchange gift. Haha! You’ll always be second place, but at least you got a taste of what it’s like to be first. Even if it was just pretend. 😉
The rage that exploded inside me was unlike anything I had ever felt.
Without thinking, I grabbed the nearest object—a framed photo of me and Adrian from our third anniversary—and hurled it across the room.
The glass shattered against the wall, shards scattering like the remnants of my heart.
My paintings hanging on the wall were almost hit.
A strangled sob tore from my throat as I sank to the floor, my body shaking with the force of my grief.
I had never felt this kind of pain before.
It wasn’t just heartbreak—it was betrayal, humiliation, and a loss so deep it hollowed me out from the inside.
I clutched my chest as if I could physically hold myself together, as if I could stop the cracks from spreading.
But what could I do?
I had always been the shadow. The second choice.
And against Celeste, I was nothing.
The next morning, I woke up to the relentless ringing of my phone.
I groaned, my eyes so swollen I could barely open them.
Blindly, I reached for my phone on the nightstand and answered without checking the caller ID.
“What?” I asked, my voice hoarse and weak.
“Turn on the news,” Mia’s voice came through, rushed and urgent.
I rubbed my temples. “Mia, I just woke up—”
“Turn. It. On.”
“Gosh… you’re so persistent!” I grumbled, dragging myself out of bed and grabbing my laptop.
With heavy fingers, I searched for the latest news, wondering what could possibly be so important.
And then I saw it.
The screen flickered to life, and my blood ran cold.
Celeste stood in the center of a grand art gallery, cameras flashing, reporters hanging onto her every word.
And behind her, lining the walls of the gallery, were paintings.
One of them outshone the rest.
She had placed it at the center, displaying it like a masterpiece.
I knew why.
Because it was mine.
Chapter 3
My breath hitched as I stared at the images on the screen. Each brushstroke, every delicate detail — I knew them by heart. I had poured hours, days, even years into those pieces.
They were mine.
A reporter stepped forward, microphone in hand.
“Celeste, your debut gallery has taken the art world by storm. Especially this piece at the center. Some critics are already comparing your work to a genius contemporary artist, Ellaine Laurant. How does it feel to receive such high praise?”
Celeste feigned humility, pressing a hand to her chest with a dazzling smile.
“Oh, I’m truly honored. I never imagined my work would be received this well.”
My fingers dug into the sheets, my nails biting into the fabric as rage bubbled in my chest.
Another reporter asked, “Your pieces have such depth, such emotion. Especially this piece at the center. Can you tell us what inspires you to paint this scorched landscape? It looks like it has debris from after the fire. But look… the single dandelion blooming at the center of the ruins was like it bloomed from the ash. It looks intriguing!”
Celeste let out a soft, rehearsed laugh. “You know, inspiration can come from anywhere. I just… paint what I feel.”
Lies.
Lies! Lies! Lies!
How can she even explain it? It was inspired by the fire that happened at the orphanage!
She can never explain it because it never happened to her!
My breath came in shallow bursts as my vision blurred. Before I even realized it, I had thrown off my blanket and was already pulling on the nearest clothes I could find.
I had to go.
I had to stop this.
The gallery was grand — pristine and filled with people admiring my work as if Celeste had created them.
I stormed through the entrance, barely taking in the luxurious decor, the marble floors, or the high ceilings. Rage propelled me forward, my heart hammering in my chest as I pushed past guests murmuring about Celeste’s “brilliance.”
And then I saw her.
Standing in the center of the gallery, basking in the glow of attention, effortlessly charming the crowd.
I didn’t hesitate. I marched straight toward her, my eyes blazing, my hands clenched into fists.
“Celeste!”
She turned at the sound of her name, her smile still in place — until she saw the fury on my face.
Her eyes widened like she was surprised to see me there.
“Eloise? What are you doing here?!”
My stomach twisted at the sheer audacity in her voice. “How dare you?!”
Celeste sighed, glancing around. “Not here, Eloise. You’re making a scene!” she whispered. Her tone was worried.
And before I could even answer her, she grabbed my arms and pulled me into a private room.
“Let me go! You stole my painting and now you are parading it around as yours, and I’m the problem?”
She let go of me and smirked.
“It’s not stealing if you gave them to me.”
My jaw was clenched. “I never gave you anything!”
Celeste shrugged, sipping from her champagne glass like we were discussing the weather.
“Oh, but you did. Adrian was thoughtful enough to hand them over. He said you wouldn’t mind.”
I felt something inside me snap.
“Adrian?” I echoed, my voice a whisper of disbelief.
Celeste smirked. “Oh, you didn’t know? He brought them to me weeks ago. Said you were ‘too attached’ to your work and that I could put them to better use.”
My entire body shook.
Too attached?
I had poured my soul into that painting and spent sleepless nights agonizing over every detail. And Adrian — that bastard — had handed them over to Celeste as if they were disposable.
I took a deep breath, struggling to keep my voice steady. “Take them down.”
Celeste arched a perfectly sculpted brow. “Excuse me?”
“I said take it down!” I repeated, my voice sharper this time. ” — or I will sue you! You know they aren’t yours!”
Celeste chuckled, shaking her head. “Oh, Eloise. Always so dramatic.” She leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. “Let’s be honest here. Who do you think they’ll believe? Me — the golden child, the one everyone adores? Or you — the shadow that no one even remembers?”
I swallowed hard, my throat burning.
“I won’t let you get away with this,” I whispered.
Her smile widened. “Oh, but I already have.”
And with that, she turned her back on me and left me in the room, effortlessly slipping back into the crowd as if nothing had happened.
I stood there in the dark again, my hands trembling at my sides, my body rigid with the kind of fury that left no room for tears.
I had been betrayed. Humiliated. Stolen from.
________________________________________
Later that night, I found myself in a bar with Mia. I had to call her to pick me up from the gallery because I could barely stand on my own. She wanted to take me home, but I insisted I needed a drink — I needed to forget.
“How could they do this to me, Mia? After everything I did for her? For him?!” My voice cracked as tears spilled down my cheeks.
I grabbed another shot of tequila and downed it without hesitation.
“Slow down, Eloise! You’re already drunk!”
I turned to her lazily. “I don’t care!” I sniffed. “C-Celeste… she took everything from me! My life, my designs, my boyfriend — and now my paintings?! Why can’t she just leave me alone?! I did everything for her. I became her! This is so unfair!”
I slammed another shot back, and the room tilted. I was never a drinker — but I didn’t care anymore.
I just wanted to numb the pain.
“Haist… you poor thing,” Mia said softly, brushing my hair out of my face.
I hiccuped, and suddenly, the tequila threatened to make an unwelcome reappearance. “W-Wait—”
I stood up abruptly.
“Where are you going?” Mia asked.
I pointed toward the restroom and rushed off without answering. I was halfway there when I crashed into someone.
For a moment, our eyes met — and the man was glaring at me like I’d just insulted his entire family. But there was something more in the way he stared at me. It was like he was disgusted by me.
Fueled by alcohol and anger, I glared right back.
“Y-You—”
I tried to argue, but my stomach lurched again. With one last furious look, I spun around and ran for the bathroom.
God, my head felt like it was splitting in two.
After I was done throwing up, I sat on the cold tile floor, trying to steady myself. I swore I would never drink again. If it weren’t for Celeste and Adrian, I wouldn’t even be in this mess.
I was about to head back when my phone buzzed. When I saw the name on the screen, my stomach twisted all over again.
Mom.
Taking a deep breath, I answered. “M-Mom?”
“Eloise. Come home tomorrow morning. We need to discuss something. It’s urgent,” she said, her tone cold and commanding as always.
My chest tightened. “What is it about?”
The last thing I wanted was to face Celeste again.
“No questions. Just come home.”
And just like that, the line went dead.
I sighed. Looked like I didn’t have a choice.
When I got back to the table, Mia grabbed my arm before I could even sit down.
“Eloise! Look!” she said, shoving her phone in my face.
I winced, pushing it back. “Move it away! You’re making my head spin!”
“No! Look!” Mia insisted. “Your sister is getting married!”
My heart dropped. “What?”
I snatched the phone from her and squinted at the headline on the social media post.
Breaking News: Celeste Everhart of Everhart Enterprises is now engaged to Sebastian Whitmore of Whitmore Corporation!
My throat went dry. “Sebastian Whitmore?”
Scrolling through the comments, I saw people’s outrage.
“What?! Celeste can’t marry that guy!”
“Isn’t he the impotent son? Why would they do this to Celeste?!”
“Right! Celeste deserves better!”
I swallowed hard. Now I remembered him.
Sebastian Whitmore — the CEO of Whitmore Corporation, the most powerful company in the country. But despite his success, his reputation was terrible. He was known for never having a wife, never even being linked to anyone. Rumors swirled that he was either impotent… or gay.
“Did you know about this?” Mia asked.
I shook my head slowly. “No.”
But then I remembered my mother’s call — and dread curled in my stomach.
Was this what she wanted to discuss?
Chapter 4
I woke up feeling like my head was being split in two. It was so heavy, and it felt like I couldn’t even open my eyes.
I felt like I’d been run over by a truck.
“Ouch…” I groaned, pressing a hand to my forehead.
I swear I’m never drinking again!
But slowly, the memories of yesterday started coming back. I forced my eyes open and stared at the ceiling.
Right. My golden sister stole my paintings.
How dare she?
But what could I even do? Our parents would just take her side — they always did — no matter how hard I fought.
Besides, it was just a painting. I could always make more. But it still hurt.
Adrian gave them to her, knowing how much those paintings meant to me. Did I really mean so little to him?
My thoughts were cut off when my phone started ringing. Eyes still shut, I reached out to my bedside table and answered without even checking who was calling.
“Hello?” I croaked.
“Eloise! Where the hell are you?! Did you forget I told you to come home today?!”
My entire body jolted awake at the sound of my mother’s angry voice. I forced my eyes open and sat up in bed.
“Mom! No—I mean, I’m sorry! I’m coming!” I stammered.
“You better be! Your father’s waiting too!” she snapped.
That made me pause. Dad was there? That could only mean one thing — whatever this was about, it was serious.
“Get here. Now!” she ordered before hanging up.
I sighed, lowering my phone.
I didn’t have a choice — I had to go.
After getting ready, I headed out to the Everhart estate. I kept it casual — just a simple t-shirt, jeans, and sneakers.
I didn’t bother with makeup. Celeste would never let me hear the end of it if I looked prettier than her.
The Everhart estate.
The tall, imposing walls screamed wealth and power. But it never felt like home.
I walked through the long driveway quietly. When I stepped into the mansion, the first thing I saw was Mom and Celeste sitting on the long couch in the living room, both looking serious and agitated.
My father — Simeon Everhart — sat on a separate chair, his face stern and his eyes fixed on his newspaper.
I took a deep breath and cleared my throat.
“Mom. Dad. I’m here.”
Mom and Celeste looked up.
Celeste immediately rolled her eyes when she saw me.
“Finally,” she muttered.
“Come in and sit down, Eloise!” Mom commanded.
I swallowed hard and walked in, taking a seat across from them.
“Is there a problem, Mom? Why did you need me here?” I asked, trying to keep my voice calm.
Mom glanced at Dad, but he kept his eyes on his newspaper, so she looked back at me.
“Yes. We need you again,” she said, her voice cold and steady. “You’re going to marry Sebastian Whitmore next week.”
I froze.
“You will marry him instead of your sister,” she added without a hint of hesitation.
It felt like the world went silent.
I’d done everything they asked because I owed them — because they’d helped me so much.
They were still helping me now.
I’d been Celeste’s stand-in whenever they needed me, pretending to be her when it was convenient.
But marrying someone in her place?
“No!” The word burst out of me as I shot to my feet, staring at them in disbelief.
Mom and Celeste exchanged glances.
Celeste’s eyes darkened with fury. She stood and marched toward me — and before I could react, she slapped me. Hard.
The sting bloomed across my cheek, and I stared at her, stunned.
“How dare you say no?! This is your job in this family, Eloise! Don’t you forget it!” she hissed.
I clutched my cheek, my heart pounding with shock and anger.
“Enough, Celeste! Sit down!” Mom ordered.
I forced myself to take a deep breath, trying to stay calm.
“I know my place, Celeste. I agreed to this arrangement — to stand in for you when needed. But that doesn’t mean I’ll marry someone in your place!” I shot back.
“You—”
“Stop,” Mom cut her off sharply.
Mom turned her cold gaze on me. “Do you really think you have a choice, Eloise? You’re your sister’s substitute. You will do this. Besides, Sebastian Whitmore is rumored to be impotent. You’ll be perfectly safe — he won’t touch you.”
But that didn’t make me feel any better. This was my life they were deciding for me like it was nothing.
I turned to Dad, silently begging him to intervene — to help me. But he just kept reading his newspaper like we weren’t even there.
Celeste laughed. “It’s true! People say he’s gay, too. So, sis — you can still live your life however you want. Don’t worry.”
I glared at her.
“And why don’t you do it, then? You’re the one he’s supposed to marry — why does it have to be me?!”
I could take a lot — but not this.
“Fine!” Mom snapped. “But can you live with yourself knowing your beloved orphanage will lose its sponsor? That Mother Celine — who’s still in the hospital — won’t get the treatment she needs because of your selfishness?”
The words hit like a punch to the gut.
The orphanage. The staff. Mother Celine.
If I refused, they would all suffer.
Mom’s voice softened — but her words cut even deeper. “She won’t survive without our support, Eloise.”
My heart shattered. Tears burned my eyes, but I refused to let them fall.
I didn’t have a choice. Not really.
The moment I agreed to this arrangement, I lost my freedom. And now, it would be gone for good.
But I wouldn’t let this be the end of my story.
No — I’d use this opportunity to make them pay.
All the pain they’d caused — the way Celeste had taken everything from me.
My life. My boyfriend. My designs. My paintings.
And now, this.
You made a mistake asking me to take your place this time, Celeste.
Chapter 5
Sebastian’s POV
I stared blankly at the tablet screen, my vision darkening with every passing second as I watched the woman speaking confidently in front of the crowd.
It was her — Celeste Everhart. My bride.
I still couldn’t believe it had come to this — that I had to marry her. Or anyone, for that matter.
If it weren’t for my father’s insistence that I settle down, I would never have agreed to this ridiculous deal. He favored my stepbrother so much that he thought I should be the one to suffer instead of him.
Even though they were the ones who created this problem—spreading rumors that weren’t true. Now, my father thinks I needed to get married to a respectful family to save our family’s tarnished reputation.
What a dumb idea.
I could have refused — I didn’t need his fortune. I could stand on my own. But I wasn’t about to let his other family leech off his money and power.
And Celeste Everhart was the only “suitable” bride available. Naturally, my father chose her.
The Everharts had long been family friends — though I never cared to know any of them. They were just like my father’s second family, always clinging to him for influence and wealth.
And I knew exactly what kind of woman Celeste Everhart was.
Unlike the sweet, graceful persona she showed the public, she was nothing but a manipulative, power-hungry woman.
I could never like someone like her.
“Your fiancée sure knows how to shine, doesn’t she?” Marcus Brown’s voice broke through my thoughts.
My assistant.
Marcus has been working with me ever since I took over our company. He sat casually on the long couch in front of my desk, watching the same video that had just ruined my mood.
“She’s the star of every event she attends,” Marcus continued, smirking. “She really knows how to charm the crowd.”
I scoffed. “A pretty face and a rehearsed speech — and suddenly everyone thinks she’s brilliant?” I shook my head in disbelief.
There was no way I could ever admire a woman like her.
Since the moment I learned about our arranged marriage, I’d kept a close eye on her. None of them knew I had been watching her — seeing her true face. I’d seen her countless times in nightclubs, flirting with different men every night.
How could anyone like her?
And now she was going to be my wife.
Unbelievable.
Frustrated, I tossed the tablet onto my desk, unable to watch her fake smile for a second longer.
“Marcus,” I said, my tone sharp. “Any updates on what I asked you to look into?”
Marcus set his own tablet down and grabbed a folder, handing it to me.
“There was a fire at the orphanage you mentioned five years ago,” he began. “Almost nothing survived. It was a miracle the children made it out alive.”
My brows knitted together in frustration as I flipped through the photos inside the folder.
The orphanage had been reduced to ashes. All that remained were the charred remnants of its foundation.
“Where are the children now?” I asked.
“They were relocated to a new site,” Marcus replied. “But the orphanage is under new management. I tried to obtain their records, but… they said everything was destroyed in the fire.”
I exhaled slowly, the weight of disappointment settling over me.
It felt hopeless.
How was I supposed to find her now?
“Okay,” I said quietly, closing the folder. “What about the wedding preparations?”
Marcus cleared his throat. “Everything is on track, Sir. Next week, you’ll be marrying Celeste Everhart.”
My hands clenched into fists, my eyes narrowing at the thought.
If the Everharts thought they’d hit the jackpot by marrying off their daughter to me, they were sorely mistaken. She would soon understand just how much I despised her.
But for now, that didn’t matter.
The real event was approaching.
Next week, my father’s infamous auction — a spectacle meant for his disgraceful son — would take place.
And I had to get my hands on that painting.
Chapter 6
“What?! And what did you say?” Mia asked, her eyes wide in disbelief.
As expected, Mia was completely shocked by my news. Honestly, I still couldn’t believe it myself — that I was getting married to someone I didn’t even know.
“Do I have a choice?” I said, hugging myself tightly.
Mia stood up from the couch and began pacing the living room of my apartment, her frustration obvious.
“You shouldn’t agree to this, Eloise! This is your life we’re talking about! This isn’t just some event where you stand in for her like before — this is marriage!”
I avoided her gaze. Mia knew everything going on in my life — she was the only person I could confide in.
“I know,” I whispered. “But if I don’t do this… what happens to the orphanage? Because of my connection to Everharts, I’ve been able to help them. Mother Celine’s treatment at the hospital — it’s all because of their money. I can’t just turn my back on them, Mia. They’re my only family.”
Mia let out a frustrated sigh and sat beside me, her eyes filled with concern. But before she could say anything, the doorbell rang.
She rolled her eyes. “I’ll get it.”
I let her go while I stayed on the couch, feeling completely drained by everything happening in my life. Moments later, Mia returned, carrying a large box.
I frowned. “What’s that?”
Mia shrugged. “I’m not sure. But it’s for you.”
She set the box on the table in front of us. Curiosity got the better of me, and I opened it — my breath caught the moment I saw what was inside.
A wedding gown.
I almost gasped as I lifted the gown carefully. My eyes widened because of the beauty and elegance of it.
The fabric shimmered under the light.
I could feel the delicate lace and intricate embroidery of it – it was ethereal.
It was like something out of a dream.
So soft, feminine, and yet regal.
“That’s… stunning,” Mia whispered, clearly mesmerized.
I swallowed hard and nodded, but beneath my admiration, there was a deep ache in my chest.
This gown meant the wedding was really happening. There was no turning back now.
But as I inspected the dress, my fingers brushed against something off.
I froze.
There — along the side of the gown — was a noticeable cut. It wasn’t part of the design; it looked intentional, like someone had taken scissors to the fabric.
Mia saw it, too, her face darkening with anger. “What the hell—”
I smiled bitterly. “She’s really trying to mock me,” I said, my voice low. “But I won’t let her win.”
—
I stood at the massive chapel doors, my heart pounding so hard it felt like it would burst out of my chest. The doors opened slowly, and I took my first step onto the long red carpet.
The chapel was filled with guests, and every single one of them turned to look at me.
“Wow! Look at her! She’s stunning!”
“She’s the perfect bride! So gorgeous!”
“I’m so jealous!”
Their words floated around me, a mix of awe and admiration. For the first time in my life, I felt seen. I wasn’t second best. I wasn’t a shadow.
And even though I knew this praise was meant for Celeste — not me — I let myself enjoy it, just this once.
Then I saw her.
Celeste Everhart stood near the bride’s section, her eyes locked on me.
A piece of cloth was covering half of her face to hide it.
She’d gone out of her way to dress similarly to me — probably trying to reinforce the illusion — but the shock on her face when she saw me told me everything I needed to know.
She was shocked seeing how intricate my wedding gown was.
When I saw that it was damaged, I immediately altered the lower area. Making it more elegant and classy.
She hadn’t expected me to look like this.
I smiled inwardly. She thought she could humiliate me, but I wouldn’t let her.
My parents waited for me halfway down the aisle. They walked with me the rest of the way, their hands warm and reassuring on mine. And then we reached the altar.
And the groom.
The moment I laid eyes on him, my breath caught.
This… wasn’t what I expected.
He looked nothing like the cold, cruel man the rumors and articles had described. There was no trace of ugliness or harshness — only a striking, almost otherworldly beauty.
He was tall and broad-shouldered, his presence commanding even without a word. His hazel eyes — framed by long, dark lashes — held mine in an intense stare. Thick, well-defined brows framed his sharp features. His lips were full and a deep shade of red.
But it was his hair that drew me in the most — dark, soft curls that fell around his face with a careless grace.
I swallowed hard.
Why did he feel so… familiar?
I didn’t know this man — and yet, something about him tugged at a memory just out of reach.
But this man was my husband now. I supposed I’d have time to figure it out.
My father placed my hand in his, and his grip was strong and sure. But even through that touch, I could feel the ice in his stare — and the warning behind it.
“Happy now?” he asked quietly, his voice low enough that only I could hear.
I turned my head slightly, startled by his words. “What?”
“Don’t think you’ll get what you want after this marriage, woman,” he said coldly.
His voice was like ice — it sent shivers down my spine.
I stared at him, my heart pounding. “I… don’t understand.”
But he didn’t answer me. He just faced forward, his expression hard and unreadable.
And so the ceremony continued, like we were nothing more than actors reading a script — two strangers bound by duty and nothing else.
—
The reception was held in a grand ballroom, filled with glittering lights and endless guests. People kept coming to my table, offering congratulations and well-wishes. I played my part perfectly — I’d had enough practice pretending to be Celeste, after all.
But there was one glaring problem.
My husband — Sebastian Whitmore — was nowhere to be found.
The chair beside me remained empty, a silent reminder of the distance he clearly wanted to maintain.
I tried not to let it bother me, but as time passed, the absence grew heavier. I scanned the room, searching for him.
But he was gone.
He hadn’t been by my side since we arrived here.
And maybe this was his way of showing me exactly what kind of marriage this would be.
But instead of feeling angry… I felt something else.
Worry.
Chapter 7
“Well, looks like your impotent husband is nowhere to be found.”
I turned to the side, recognizing that voice immediately. It was Celeste, her lips curled into a mocking smile. She held a wine glass, her eyes gleaming with amusement as she stared at me.
I almost rolled my eyes but forced myself to stay calm. I wasn’t about to waste my energy on her. Instead, I turned back toward the view from the terrace, breathing in the cool night air in an attempt to soothe my frayed nerves.
But, of course, the universe refused to give me peace — and instead sent Celeste my way.
“You know, Sis, you should be happy. You’re finally a wife. But I bet even that won’t be enough. Sure, he’s good-looking — but he doesn’t want you. He’s gay.”
I closed my eyes and took a slow, steadying breath.
“Can you stop now, Celeste? You already got what you wanted. I married him in your place. What more do you want?”
The smirk slipped from her face instantly. Her eyes narrowed, her lips twitching with rage.
“What did you just say?”
I met her glare without flinching — something I never would’ve dared do before. But there was a new strength in me now, one I didn’t even know I had.
“I’ve been giving you chance after chance, Celeste. Sure, you paid me, but without me? You wouldn’t even be you. My designs, my life, my art, my boyfriend — and now my future? Haven’t you taken enough? Can’t you just let me go and leave me alone? Especially now that I’m the one married instead of you?”
Her face flushed an angry red.
I knew she was shocked — and honestly, so was I. I never thought I’d finally speak up like this, but the resentment I’d kept bottled up for so long had finally spilled over.
Her teeth clenched, and before I could react, she flung the contents of her wine glass into my face. The liquid stung my eyes, and I let out a sharp cry at the sudden pain.
“What the hell?!” I yelled, wiping at my face.
“Remember this, Eloise!” she hissed. “You are nothing! You’ll always be my second — my shadow! And I won’t stop until you understand that’s all you’ll ever be!”
With that, Celeste spun on her heel and stormed off the terrace.
I stood there, seething, my white dress now stained with red wine. My face was sticky, my eyes still stinging.
Great. Just great.
I’d had enough. My so-called husband hadn’t even bothered to show up for the reception, so there was no point in sticking around. Especially when Celeste kept finding new ways to humiliate me.
Outside the venue, I spotted a man standing next to a sleek black car. He noticed me immediately and walked over.
“Mrs. Whitmore, I’m Brick — your driver. Are you heading home already?” he asked politely.
I frowned. “My driver? I… I don’t have a driver. You must be mistaken.”
Brick looked just as confused. “Aren’t you Mr. Sebastian Whitmore’s wife?”
My mouth fell open. “Oh, y-yes. Where is he?”
“He had to leave right after the ceremony for an important meeting. He asked me to take you home after the reception.”
Of course he did.
I exhaled slowly, trying to push down my irritation. “Fine. I’d like to go home now.”
Brick nodded and quickly opened the car door for me.
“I’ll take you to your new home, Mrs. Whitmore.”
I gave him a tight smile as I slid into the car. I still wasn’t used to the new name, but there was no point fighting it. After all, I was married now.
The drive was smooth and quiet. I spent most of it trying to process the day — the wedding, the humiliation, and the man I’d just married.
The reality of my situation was finally sinking in. I barely knew Sebastian, and yet here I was — his wife. And the way he’d spoken to me earlier… there was something unsettling about it. Something I couldn’t quite figure out.
But I had to stay strong. I wasn’t just doing this for myself — I was doing it for the orphanage.
When we finally arrived, I stepped out of the car and stared, wide-eyed, at the house before me. It was stunning — all glass and steel, sleek and modern, yet warm and inviting. The sprawling estate looked like something out of a magazine.
The entrance was grand, with high ceilings and a sweeping staircase. A massive chandelier cast soft, golden light across the marble floors. Every detail screamed wealth and elegance.
As I took it all in, my eyes landed on the figure lounging on the sofa. The dim lighting kept him partially hidden, so I didn’t recognize him right away.
“S-Sebastian?” I called hesitantly.
He stood, his movements smooth and deliberate. I took an instinctive step back as he approached, my pulse quickening.
There was something about him — his presence was overpowering. And when his intense hazel eyes locked on mine, I felt like he was seeing straight into my soul.
I forced myself to stand my ground, even as my heart pounded wildly.
“So… I know neither of us wanted this,” I began, my voice softer than I intended. “But… if there’s something you want to say, you can tell me. I’m willing to listen.”
His expression didn’t change. “What should I say?”
I hesitated. How was I supposed to tell him I already knew his… secret? That I accepted him without making it sound like an insult?
“Ahm… anything, really. I just… want you to know that I accept you — whatever you are,” I said with a nervous smile.
For a brief second, something flashed in his eyes — anger? Amusement? I couldn’t tell. But then his face hardened once more.
“I don’t care what you think of me,” he said coldly. “You’re just my wife on paper. That doesn’t mean you have a say in my life.”
My jaw tightened, but maybe it was better this way. If he wanted to keep his distance, then at least I’d have my freedom.
“Fine. I’m sorry,” I muttered.
I saw his fists clench, but he stayed silent. Had I said something wrong?
The room grew uncomfortably quiet. He stood there, just watching me — and the longer his gaze lingered, the more unsettled I became.
Why was he looking at me like that?
My arms wrapped around myself as a strange sense of panic crept in. His eyes flicked down, noticing the movement — and then his lips curved into a slow, dangerous smirk.
“Why?” he asked softly. “Do you think I’m going to do something to you tonight?”
My eyes widened in shock. What the hell?
Wasn’t he supposed to be…?
He took a step closer. And then another.
“H-Huh?” I stammered, backing away until my shoulders hit the cold wall behind me.
His smirk grew. He kept closing the distance between us until his hand braced against the wall beside my head. His face was so close that I could feel his warm breath against my skin.
My throat went dry.
“W-What are you doing?” I whispered.
“Why?” His voice was low, teasing. “You look scared… isn’t this what you wanted?”
His fingers brushed my cheek, the touch soft — almost gentle. But the way his eyes held mine made my heart race in fear.
“This is who you are… right?” he murmured.
I panicked. The room felt too small, his presence too overwhelming. When his hand slid lower toward my neck, I shoved him away and put as much distance between us as I could.
“What is wrong with you?!” I snapped, my voice shaking.
He just chuckled, like he was enjoying my fear.
My whole body trembled. I glared at him.
“Just because we’re married doesn’t mean you can treat me like this! You said it yourself — this is just on paper. So stay away from me, or I swear I’ll sue you!”
His eyes darkened. “Really? Let’s see.”
He turned away without another word.
“You can sleep in the master bedroom,” he called over his shoulder. “Don’t wait up for me… Wife.”
And then he was gone, leaving me alone in the massive house — and more terrified than I’d ever been in my life.
Chapter 8
Living with Sebastian was slowly becoming comfortable. I set up my craft room, where I spent my time painting. It was easy for me to adjust because Sebastian was rarely home. He only came back when he felt like it, and even at night, he was often absent.
We’d been married for two weeks already, but we hadn’t even shared a bed. Not that I was hoping for it to happen — but it was strange.
Today, I decided to go out for the first time since getting married. I went to the market first. Sebastian had given me a card I could use to buy whatever I wanted. At first, I felt embarrassed about using it, but I thought I could put it to good use — buying things for the caretakers instead.
Brick came with me that day. He was always with me whenever I went out — my driver and my bodyguard.
I bought food and new supplies for the staff who were still recovering in the hospital — and some fresh white lilies for Mother Celine. White lilies were her favorite, so I always brought them whenever I visited her.
I also bought toys, clothes, and food for the children at the orphanage.
The orphanage was my first stop. Seeing the kids’ smiles always made me happy. I gave them the gifts I’d brought and stayed to watch them eat and play.
After spending time with them, I headed to the hospital to check on the staff who had been injured in the fire — especially Mother Celine, who was still in a coma.
It had been five years since she closed her eyes and never opened them again. Everyone told me to give up — to accept the possibility that she might never wake up. But I couldn’t.
Mother Celine was my constant support. She became a mother to me when no one else did. She never gave up on me — just a kid from the orphanage — and I swore I would never give up on her either.
After making sure everything was okay, I left the ICU.
The hospital was quiet today — not many patients and only a few people in the hallways. As I walked out, just as I was about to turn a corner, someone suddenly grabbed my arm.
I spun around, ready to fight — until I saw who it was.
“Adrian?” I stared at him, shocked, pulling my arm back.
Adrian smirked. “I knew you’d be here.”
I raised an eyebrow. “So? What do you want? Did Celeste send you again?”
He shrugged lazily, slipping his hands into his pockets.
“I just wanted to check up on you. You haven’t been answering my calls.”
I nearly rolled my eyes.
“What for? Didn’t you make it clear that Celeste was the one you really wanted? Why are you still checking up on me? We’ve already broken up!”
Adrian chuckled. “Marriage made you tough, huh? You weren’t like this when we were still together.”
I glared at him. “What do you really want, Adrian? I don’t have time for this.”
His smirk grew wider.
“Fine. Well, I heard your husband’s impotent. Bet he can’t satisfy you, Eloise.”
My face flushed with embarrassment.
Despite our long relationship, Adrian and I had never slept together. He’d said he respected my decision to wait until we were married — and like a fool, I believed him. I thought he was a gentleman. But in the end, it was all a lie.
He just never wanted me after all.
“What?!” I snapped.
Adrian feigned surprise. “Why? You’re already married — don’t tell me you haven’t done it yet?”
“Shut up!” I hissed. “He isn’t a maniac like you!”
“Wow. Do you know how long I waited for you to finally give it to me? But it never happened. So how about this — I’ll make you a deal. Paint more for Celeste, and I’ll satisfy your needs instead.”
My eyes widened.
So it was still about her.
No matter how far I ran, Celeste’s shadow always seemed to follow me.
“You’re still licking her boots — for what? So you can use her as a stepping stone for your success? You’re just using her, too!”
Adrian’s eyes darkened. He grabbed my arm again, yanking me closer.
“You don’t know anything, Eloise! You’re just jealous because I liked her more than you!”
I smirked. “Really? Then why are you here, begging me like a dog for another painting for her, huh?”
Adrian’s face turned red with anger. His grip tightened, making me wince.
“You don’t know anything! Haven’t you heard? Your father favors me now. He even promised me that if I secure a project with Whitmore Company, I’ll get promoted to project manager. Being with Celeste has given me more opportunities than you ever did. With you, I was nothing — just stuck with a replacement.”
My blood boiled.
Without thinking, I raised my hand and slapped him hard across the face. The sound echoed in the hallway.
I didn’t wait for his reaction. I turned around and walked away without looking back — just like he deserved.
I couldn’t believe I’d ever loved him.
Chapter 9
Sebastian’s POV
“Your next meeting is at the royal restaurant, Sir. Mr. Javier will be waiting for you there,” Marcus explained as we walked down the hospital hallways.
I had just finished my meeting with the board members here at the Gabriella Medical Center regarding new projects for the hospital.
This hospital was one of the few that my late mother owned. It was the only inheritance my father couldn’t take away from me, thanks to my mother’s will. Since then, I had made sure to dedicate more time to taking care of it.
It was my only memory of her.
“Is it ready? The documents?” I asked.
“Yes, sir. They’re already in the car. I also made a copy of the agreement for Mr. Javier,” Marcus replied.
“Good.”
We were about to turn down a corridor when I saw two people on the other side of the hallway. Normally, I wouldn’t have cared about other people, but my feet stopped as if they had a mind of their own.
I stared at them, trying to get a clearer view of what they were doing.
“Isn’t that Mrs. Whitmore?” Marcus suddenly said.
I narrowed my eyes and focused on them. I could only see the back of the man, but the woman...
My jaw tightened, and I clenched my fists as I realized who it was.
It was my wife, Celeste.
—
The whole day, I couldn’t stop thinking about her. She was out, but why was she at the hospital? Who was the man she was talking to?
Being married to her for two weeks had changed my perspective. I thought I had misjudged her.
She was always at the house, with no one visiting her. All she did was type on her laptop or paint something every day.
I thought she was different from what I had initially assumed.
But seeing her out with a man, being intimate — it made me feel like a fool. I shouldn’t have trusted her pretty face so easily.
I decided to go home earlier today. The truth was, I always came home every night, but Celeste never knew because I made sure she was already asleep. I also woke up early to go to the office. This had been my routine for the past few weeks.
But today was different. I made sure she wasn’t home when I returned. The servants greeted me, and I nodded at them as I headed to our room.
There, I changed my clothes and waited.
It was already dark when Celeste finally came home — I saw it from the CCTV footage on my phone.
I sat on the sofa and waited for her to come to our room. When she opened the door, Celeste was surprised to see me.
“S-Sebastian? You’re here,” she said, her eyes filled with worry.
I frowned. “Where have you been?”
Her eyes grew even more restless, confirming my suspicions.
“A-Ahm… I-I went home. I thought maybe I should visit my parents today. Also, I had to take some of my things there. I-It was okay, right?” she stammered.
I smirked, standing up and slowly approaching her.
“Really? Where are those things then?”
Celeste’s mouth opened, but hesitation was clear on her face.
She was hiding something from me.
I continued walking toward her, and she took a step back, fear creeping onto her face.
But why?
“R-Right! I forgot! Sorry,” she said, forcing a smile. “Let me grab it. It’s still in the car.”
Celeste turned to walk away, but I immediately grabbed her arm and turned her back toward me. I then pinned her to the wall, making sure she couldn’t escape my grasp.
“W-What are you doing?!” she panicked.
“Don’t lie to me, Celeste. I know you didn’t go home. Why? Can’t you forget your old life? Did you meet your man?”
Her eyes widened.
“T-That’s not true! I didn’t—”
“What?” I snapped. “You know what I hate more than anything? Liars!”
She gasped as I moved my face closer. For a moment, I was taken aback. She looked even more beautiful from this angle. Her eyes, full of terror, still held an innocent and familiar look. Her pink lips seemed to invite me closer.
My heart suddenly throbbed.
What the hell is happening to me?
I immediately released her, before I couldn’t stop myself. I turned away and rubbed the back of my neck, trying to regain control.
What was wrong with me?
“Just… Be careful with what you do, Celeste! You’re already married. Don’t embarrass me with your actions!” I said, frustration in my voice.
Then I left the room.
The space suddenly felt suffocating.
Chapter 10
Eloise’s POV
What the f*ck was that?
I still couldn’t forget the way he acted last night.
I saw the anger in his eyes—undeniable and intense.
But why?
I knew he wasn’t talking about me.
And as far as I could remember, Celeste had never met him before.
Sebastian Whitmore was notoriously elusive. There weren’t even photos of him online.
I had a feeling that something had happened between him and Celeste—something unresolved.
And now, I had no choice but to bear the consequences because he thought I was my adoptive sister.
I took a deep breath and shook my head.
I needed to stop overthinking and focus on my painting.
Maybe I should just ignore him.
I prepared a fresh canvas and set up my painting materials. This would be my first painting in this house.
But then—
The door to my craft room suddenly swung open.
I froze mid-motion as Sebastian walked in.
A strange unease settled in my stomach the moment I saw his expression—his brows furrowed, his lips pressed into a hard line.
Did I do something wrong again?
I quickly straightened and faced him.
“S-Sebastian? What do you need? I-I didn’t know you were home,” I stammered, trying to sound casual.
His sharp gaze swept across the room, stopping at the blank canvas beside me.
Then, he turned his attention back to me.
“Don’t make any plans for tomorrow. We’re going somewhere,” he said, his voice firm.
I frowned. “Where?”
He let out an exasperated sigh, as if I’d already annoyed him.
“My grandfather’s banquet. We have to attend as a couple.”
I froze at his words.
Since our wedding, I hadn’t met any of his family.
Not even during the ceremony—they hadn’t been there.
“O-Okay,” I replied hesitantly.
His gaze flickered with disinterest.
“Behave yourself when we’re there. The maid will bring your dress tomorrow,” he added.
My frown deepened at his words, but before I could respond, he turned on his heel and left, slamming the door shut behind him.
I let out a frustrated sigh, shaking my head.
What was that supposed to mean?
—
The next afternoon, Lilia arrived with the dress Sebastian had mentioned.
I couldn’t hide my amazement when I saw it.
A silver V-neck gown with a high slit on the left side.
It was breathtaking. Elegant.
Something Celeste would have worn.
I shook my head, irritated that I was thinking about her again.
Pushing those thoughts aside, I stood up and got ready.
After dressing up, I let my long hair down in soft waves and applied minimal makeup.
When I stepped outside, I immediately spotted Brick waiting by the car, holding the door open for me.
“Where’s Sebastian?” I asked.
“He will meet you at the venue, Madam,” he replied.
Of course.
I should’ve expected that.
Without another word, I slipped into the car.
The ride wasn’t long, and soon, we arrived at a luxurious hotel.
Even from inside the car, I could see the swarm of media outside, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Whitmore family’s guests.
A familiar nervousness settled in my chest, despite having attended countless social events as Celeste.
And tonight was no different.
I stepped out of the car, and immediately, all cameras turned toward me.
I forced a smile as I walked down the red carpet.
I could hear the murmurs around me.
“Is that Celeste Everhart?”
“She looks even more stunning now that she’s a Whitmore!”
“Looks like Mr. Whitmore is taking good care of her.”
I ignored the whispers and continued walking, maintaining my composure.
Only when I entered the hotel hall did I let out a quiet sigh of relief.
The grandeur of the venue was overwhelming—the intricate designs, the lavish decor, the sea of guests, all from the most powerful families.
I instinctively scanned the room, searching for my husband.
I didn’t know anyone here.
I had no idea how to navigate this event or who to approach.
Then—
I spotted something across the room.
And my heart clenched.
I didn’t know why, but a sharp pang hit my chest.
Lucian.
He was talking to another woman.
Their body language… their closeness…
They looked intimate.
