Chapter 68: A Sinking Feeling
Empire Hotel, Valentine’s Gala
"What do you think?" Catherine asked as she looked at her reflection in the mirror.
May who was standing just behind her in a mint-colored gown, stared for a second too long. "You look really beautiful."
"You look like a princess," Elisa said. Catherine’s gown was pale pink, glittering faintly under the warm lights. It hugged her waist, then flared out like something pulled straight out of a fairytale. Her hair was done up in a detailed twist, pinned with tiny gemstones that caught the light each time she moved.
"You’re going to steal the whole ballroom tonight," Elisa added. "No one will be able to take their eyes off you. Especially Lenox."
May nodded. "You’ll make everyone dance with you and donate like crazy. I can already see it. Hmph. And don’t forget, don’t let Matthew dance with you unless he gives the charity at least five—no, make it ten grand!"
Catherine turned slightly, glancing at the gown once more. It shimmered with every movement. Even the makeup artists nearby paused to look.
She’d asked the glam team to make her look exactly like this. It wasn’t about vanity, she just needed to look composed, and confident. After all, she was about to swallow her pride and ask Lenox for help.
The other day had been a disaster. She left her cousin’s apartment in tears, completely empty-handed. Today was a new plan.
She was going to ask Lenox for the money.
She bit her lip and looked at her reflection again. All she could do now was hope he’d say yes.