Chapter 6 - The Transformation
With the parasites exiled, the estate felt lighter. The ruthless billionaire had softened, but only for Leah. They kept their romance private, stealing kisses in the gardens and holding hands under the table during dinners with Evelyn.
But Caleb was tired of hiding.
The Thorne Winter Gala was the most exclusive event of the season. Historically, Caleb attended alone, intimidating the room. This year, he refused.
"I can't go, Caleb," Leah argued in her bedroom. "I don't belong in that world. They will just see the waitress who dropped a tray."
Caleb stepped behind her, resting his hands on her hips. "They will see the woman I love. The woman who owns me."
He had flown in a team of Parisian stylists. When Leah finally looked in the mirror, she gasped. She wore a custom midnight-blue velvet gown that clung to her curves, and around her neck rested the legendary Thorne Sapphire—a piece that hadn't been worn since Caleb’s grandmother.
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When they arrived at the gala, the paparazzi flashes were blinding. The elite crowd parted. Whispers swept through the ballroom. Standing near the bar, looking pathetic, was Eleanor Vance, who had managed to sneak in on a pity invite. When she saw the waitress she had tried to ruin wearing the Thorne Sapphire, Eleanor’s jaw dropped.
Caleb noticed. He pulled Leah close, kissed her deeply in front of the flashing cameras, and smiled. It was the ultimate checkmate.
