-17-
Yasmin
As Rafael and I took our seats at the lavish gala, I couldn't help but watch Ethan and his latest bimbo as they circled the room. They were the kind of couple that drew attention effortlessly, with Ethan's charming smile and the blonde beauty on his arm. I tried to avert my gaze, focusing instead on the elegant decor and the soft hum of conversation surrounding us.
However, fate seemed intent on testing my composure that evening, as Ethan and his companion were seated directly in front of us. It was impossible not to notice their every move, and I found myself unwittingly drawn to observing them, much to my dismay.
Lost in my thoughts, I barely registered Rafael's gentle touch as he reached for my hand. His warm lips pressed against my fingers, pulling me out of my reverie. Startled, I turned to him, meeting his eyes filled with affection and understanding. His gesture was like a lifeline, grounding me in the moment and reminding me of the present. It was also a bonus that Ethan frowned the longer Rafael held my hand.
"Are you alright?" Rafael's voice was soft, concern evident in his tone as he studied my expression.
I managed a faint smile, grateful for his presence. "Just got caught up in my thoughts for a moment."
His responding smile was reassuring, and I leaned into him, finding solace in his comforting embrace. We exchanged a few quiet words, our conversation a gentle melody amidst the chatter of the gala.
Meanwhile, Ethan's voice pierced through the air, drawing my attention back to their table. "I can't believe they're here," he muttered to his companion, his tone laced with disdain.
I felt a burst of fury at his words, but before I could respond, Rafael spoke up, his voice calm yet assertive. "It's crazy, isn't it? Roman lets anyone attend this year."
His response was met with a scowl from Ethan, who seemed irked by Rafael's composed demeanor. It was clear to anyone who heard Rafael that he was talking about Ethan and how ridiculous it was that he was invited. I knew it wasn't as ridiculous as he implied since they were from the same circle, but the sting of his words was enough to get him to shut up.
Before either of them could say anything else, a hush fell over the crowd as a single spotlight illuminated the center of the platform, casting a glow on the figure that appeared there. It was Roman, elegant and charismatic as ever, his presence commanding the room effortlessly.
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen," Roman's voice boomed through the hall, his tone warm and inviting. "Welcome to the annual Charity Gala for Hope's Haven," applause erupted, a chorus of appreciation for the cause they were about to support.
"I just want to remind you all that this isn't a party for the rich to get together and drink alcohol. We're here to support a good cause." Roman continued. His words resonated with passion. "Hope's Haven is more than just a charity. It's a lifeline for countless individuals who are battling adversity. Together, we can make a difference in their lives."
The atmosphere was electric, charged with a sense of purpose and generosity. As Roman spoke about the various programs and initiatives supported by Hope's Haven, I couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration for him. When Rafael first told me about the gala, I assumed it was just an excuse for the wealthy to dress up and show out, but I was wrong. Roman was the founder of Hope's Haven and he and Rafael were very much into giving back.
After outlining the evening's schedule and introducing the keynote speakers, Roman stepped aside to welcome the first speaker to the stage. The spotlight shifted, highlighting a woman whose story was nothing short of inspiring.
Her voice trembled with emotion as she shared her journey from having cancer to being cancer-free, thanks to the support of Hope's Haven. Her words painted a vivid picture of resilience and hope, touching the hearts of everyone present. Tears welled up in my eyes as I listened, reminded of the power of compassion and generosity.
Roman took the stage again, this time to announce the highlight of the evening—the charity auction. The room crackled with excitement as valuable items and experiences were presented for bidding, each contribution adding to the funds raised for Hope's Haven.
I found myself drawn to a painting, a stunning masterpiece that spoke to me on a profound level.
"The bidding starts at fifty thousand," Roman's voice rang clearly.
I raised my paddle, announcing myself as a bidder. "Sixty thousand."
Ethan's mom, Cheryl, raised her paddle. "Seventy thousand."
I rolled my eyes, amused by what was happening. "One hundred thousand."
"One hundred and ten thousand," she responded immediately, glaring at me the whole time.
"Two hundred thousand," I spoke quietly, not bothered by how she was acting.
"Ha!" Cheryl scoffed. "As if she has two hundred thousand dollars." She turned to Rafael. "I had no idea her cunt would be that expensive."
"That's enough!" Roman snapped, banging his gavel on the desk. "Another outburst like that and I'll have you thrown out."
"That won't be necessary," I spoke up, blinking slowly as all eyes turned to me. "There's no need to punish her when she's already been punishing herself by selling her cunt for way less than the market value."
"Why you little-"
"Careful," Roman looked at her. "Another outburst and you're out of here."
"That's no way to speak to my mother," Ethan jumped in, though reluctant if the glare he gave her meant anything.
"You're welcome to join her outside," Roman shrugged, gesturing to the men in black suits lining the hallways. "Would you like to be escorted out?"
"That won't be necessary," Ava smiled brightly, gesturing to the wine glasses. "My mother and brother seem to have had too much champagne." She flagged down one of the servers. "Can I get some water brought over?"
"Certainly ma'am."
Her eyes narrowed at the server calling her ma’am, but she didn't address it. "Thank you."
I had to swallow a laugh as Roman continued with the auction, Ethan and his family long gone from his mind.
"That was awesome," I grinned, facing Rafael who was already staring at me.
"It was," he spoke softly. "I must say the way you put Cheryl in her place was really hot."
I blinked slowly, my brain doing its best to process what he just said but for some reason, it felt like I couldn't. Did he just call me hot? It was one thing when he called me pretty or beautiful, it meant he thought I was a good-looking person but hearing him call me hot was something else entirely. It was as if he was admitting to finding me attractive and that was a dangerous thought. If I were smart, I would change the subject or excuse myself but sometimes you just had to make stupid decisions.
I lowered my voice, leaning into him so only he could hear me. "You think I'm hot?"
I could practically feel the shiver that ran over his body. "That would be an understatement," he admitted. "Your eyes are like a captivating maze and every time I look into them, I find myself lost."
My breathing hitch, my eyes fluttering as I listened intently to what he said next.
"Your presence alone is a constant temptation that I've surrendered to. Your touch is like a siren's song, pulling me in until all I can do is feel you. I could never just say that I find you attractive. I crave you."
My heart raced as Rafael's words sank in. It was a rush of emotions I hadn't expected, hearing him finally confess to desiring me was better than I thought it'd be. I tried to maintain my composure, but my cheeks flushed, betraying the mix of excitement and disbelief I felt.
"What happened to not crossing the line?" I asked, my voice steady despite the nervousness I felt.
Rafael shrugged, taking a sip of his wine. "I only agreed because it was what you wanted. I admit I wasn't ready to confess that I was developing feelings for you, but I am, and I don't want to deny it anymore."
I tried to compose myself as I stared into Rafael's eyes, searching for any hint of doubt or hesitation. But all I found was raw honesty and an intensity that mirrored my feelings. It was as if a dam had burst, and the flood of emotions threatened to overwhelm me.
Taking a deep breath, I gathered enough courage to speak. "I... I might be developing feelings for you too, but I would much rather we talk about it when we don't have alcohol in our system."
He nodded. "It won't change what I said but I'm willing to wait as long as you need."
I looked away hiding my blush from his prying eyes. I felt like I could scream with happiness knowing that my feelings were reciprocated but until we had a conversation while sober, I wouldn't get my hopes up.
I turned around just in time to watch Roman climb the stage again. His charismatic voice cut through the chatter, commanding attention effortlessly. "Ladies and gentlemen," he announced with a wide grin. "This is a bit different from last here, but we have a special guest among us tonight, one that I just have to introduce to you all. He's not only an inspiration to me and many others here tonight but his business sense, wealth, and charm are known globally. Please join me in welcoming, Ivan Rashid!"
The room erupted into applause and murmurs of shock as Ivan, my father and the richest man in the world, entered with a dignified stride. My heart swelled with pride as I watched him make his way towards the stage, acknowledging the guests with a gracious nod. His eyes found mine, and I beamed at him, feeling affection and respect for the man who raised me.
However, my joy faltered as his gaze shifted to Rafael, who stood extremely close to me. I noticed the furrow in his brow, the flicker of confusion and curiosity in his expression. I probably should have told my father about being with Rafael but then I'd have to explain everything that went down with Ethan, and I wasn't up for it. It would also be weird to bring up my relationship woes when I make it a point to never discuss who I was dating with my family, except for Amirah.
I knew I should have said something when his eyes latched onto the arm Rafael wrapped around my waist.
He took the microphone from Roman, his commanding presence filling the room. "Thank you, Roman, for the warm welcome," he began, his voice warm and light. "It's a pleasure to be here tonight among potential friends and colleagues."
The applause resurged, and he acknowledged it with a gracious nod before continuing. "I must say, this gala is a testament to the excellence and dedication of Vitale Airlines," he praised, casting a meaningful glance in Roman's direction. "I'm a strong advocate of giving back and love what I'm seeing here today."
"I know a lot of you are wondering," Dad continued, his tone carefully measured, "I have been considering expanding our operations in this region." Murmurs of excitement and anticipation rippled through the audience. "And Williams Corp has been helpful in shaping our plans for this expansion."
My heart skipped a beat at what he said. For a moment I thought I heard him wrong but as I caught the horrified look on Rafael's face and the smug look on Ethan's, I knew I heard right. This wasn't a figment of my imagination or a dream I could escape by waking up. This was real. Somehow the universe screwed up and now my dad was working with my ex-husband.