Chapter 9: Don’t Removed Your Mask Until Midnight
The car came to a slow halt in front of a grand, imposing gate. The chauffeur lowered the tinted window just enough to hand an invitation ticket to the uniformed attendant standing outside. The attendant, who had clearly been expecting their arrival, nodded curtly before stepping aside.
Once the ticket was accepted, the gate began to open with a mechanical hum, a sound that echoed faintly in the still evening air.
The sleek black gate exuded both elegance and authority. Its design was intricate yet modern, with patterns that seemed almost regal, suggesting the exclusivity of whatever lay beyond.
As the gate fully opened, the car advanced deliberately, moving deeper into the estate. Lilia's eyes flitted to the window, scanning the surroundings. The precision with which everything was arranged gave the impression that this was no ordinary venue. From the polished driveway to the perfectly manicured hedges lining the path, everything whispered perfection, leaving little room for error.
Lilia could already tell this was the kind of place where even the smallest embarrassment would be etched into memory forever—a stage set for scrutiny rather than comfort. Her chest tightened at the thought, but she kept her face neutral, unwilling to show any hint of unease.
The car came to a smooth stop at a designated spot, the space clearly reserved for them. Her mother's voice broke the silence, calm yet firm. "Make sure to behave your best, girls."
Sabrina immediately straightened her posture, raising her chin with an air of practiced confidence, as if rehearsing the role she was about to step into. Lilia, meanwhile, remained still, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. Before she could even think of responding, the chauffeur exited the vehicle and opened the door, allowing the cool evening air to rush in.
Sabrina was the first to step out, her movements deliberate and poised. As she turned back toward Lilia, she leaned in close, her voice sharp but quiet enough that only her sister could hear. "Don't embarrass me."
Lilia met her sister's gaze for a moment, noting the flicker of tension behind Sabrina's words, but chose to remain silent. She wasn't in the mood to entertain Sabrina's needling remarks. Her sister, however, wasn't finished.