Red.

NADIAA

My hands trembled as I pushed open the door to their study, my mind racing with thoughts and doubts.

I couldn't believe I was doing this, snooping around in private spaces, but that text on Vicky's phone had left me with a lingering sense of unease. I needed answers, no matter how much I tried to convince myself it was none of my business. A feeling deep within my chest drove me forward, desperate to uncover the truth for whatever reason.

As I stepped inside, I heard the sound of heavy footsteps approaching. My heart skipped a beat, my legs suddenly feeling like lead weights.

I froze, unsure if I'd even closed the door properly. Panic set in, my breathing quick and shallow. I spun around, hastily retreating to the kitchen, where I grabbed the glass of water I'd barely touched. I took a sip, trying to calm my racing heart.

"Looking for me?" I asked, forcing a smile onto my face, trying to play it cool. But Elijah's next words caught me off guard. "What were you doing in my parents' study?" My mind went blank, my thoughts scattering like leaves in the wind. I couldn't deny it, but I couldn't tell the truth either.

Why had I read that text in the first place? What did it have to do with me? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. Hundreds of questions swirled in my head, making my excuses seem invalid.

Just as I was about to stumble over my words, Vicky burst into the room, chattering excitedly about the upcoming gala. I breathed a silent thank you, grateful for the distraction. Elijah's question was forgotten, replaced by Vicky's enthusiasm. After he asked me out on a proper date, we set a date for after the gala, and I couldn't help but feel a flutter in my chest.

I couldn't help but wonder what the night would bring. Would Elijah bring up the study incident?

I hoped not; I wanted tonight to be perfect. Little did I know, the evening had only just begun.

□□□

I slipped on my stiletto heels, gazing up at my reflection in the mirror. My braids were neatly styled, with a few tied back while the rest cascaded down my back like a waterfall.

I wore an olive green off-the-shoulder dress that hugged my waist and flared out at the bottom, resembling a ball gown but with less volume. I opted for a simpler look, unsure of where Elijah and I would be heading after the gala.

I reapplied my nude matte lipstick and added a layer of gloss, taking a final glance at my outfit before Vicky burst into the room. Her eyes widened in awe, and she exclaimed, "You. look. stunning!" I beamed with pride, my eyes scanning her dress.

It was truly out of this world - a sparkling burgundy red gown with a slit that showcased her toned legs and a fitted bodice that accentuated her curves. The dress was nude in parts, revealing her skin in strategic areas like her arms, and narrowed down to a sleek silhouette at the bottom.

Her hair was curled to perfection, and her lipstick matched the burgundy hue of her dress. "You're talking about me, but look at how gorgeous you are," I said, nodding in admiration. "All eyes will be on you tonight." Vicky smiled, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Correction; all eyes will be on us," she said, and we sauntered out to the waiting limousine.

"Women; as punctual as always," Mr Grey said sarcastically, his comment about punctuality drifted through the air as we approached the car. Elijah, dashing in a tailored suit that matched the burgundy shade of Vicky's dress, looked up from his phone, his grey eyes locking onto mine.

The light from his phone illuminated his face, and for a moment, it was as if time stood still. I smiled, feeling my mind go blank. I didn't like how Elijah had this effect on me - making me forget everything else around us.

"Hi," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. Elijah's hand found its way to my waist, his eyes boring into mine with an intensity that left me breathless. "Has anyone told you you're God's greatest creation?" he asked, his words spilling out like a casual compliment, yet sending my heart racing.

Hands down the best compliment I've ever received.

"Son," Mr. Grey called out, snapping us out of our trance. Elijah opened the door for me, and we slid into the limousine, the evening ahead of us full of promise and mystery.

As we entered the grand ballroom, I couldn't help but gaze up at the intricately designed ceiling, adorned with delicate frescoes and sparkling chandeliers. The room was abuzz with the hum of conversation and the soft clinking of glasses, as people mingled and laughed together.

The scenery was breathtaking, with tall windows draped in lavish curtains and ornate mirrors reflecting the light.

The room was filled with people from all over, big families and unfamiliar faces. Mr. Grey led us through the crowds, navigating past faces and nodding to a lot of people who I did not recognize.

We were on a mission to meet with a specific family, one that held significance in this tradition. I had no idea what to expect, I was literally clueless.

As we approached the family, a tall, dark-haired man stepped forward, his eyes fixed on me. "Ah, welcome," he said, his smile charming. "I see you're not familiar with our little tradition."

I shook my head, looking around nervously. "I'm afraid not," I admitted. "It's my first time,"

The man chuckled. "Well, allow me to enlighten you. It's an old custom, one that's been passed down through generations. Essentially, it's a way for potential couples to... well, get to know each other better."

He began to explain the rules, his words dripping with amusement. But just as he was getting to the good part, Elijah appeared out of nowhere, his eyes locked on us.

"Sorry to interrupt," he said, his voice low and smooth. "But I think I'll take it from here."

The man raised an eyebrow, but Elijah's confidence was unwavering. He stepped forward, taking my hand in his, and began to explain the tradition in a way that made it sound both fascinating and intimidating.

I watched, intrigued, as my eyes widened with excitement, and Elijah's gaze never left mine.

The tradition, was a complex dance, one that required grace, poise, and a deep understanding of the other person. Elijah guided me through the steps, his movements fluid and precise. I followed, my eyes fixed on his, my feet moving in perfect harmony with his.

As we danced, the room around us melted away, leaving only the two of us, lost in the music and the moment. We twirled and spun, our bodies moving as one. It was a beautiful sight, one that left me wanting more.

And then, just as suddenly as it had begun, the music stopped, and Elijah bowed low, his eyes never leaving mine. The room erupted into applause, and my face flushed with excitement.

I smiled, feeling a sense of joy and wonder that I'd never experienced before. It was clear that this tradition was more than just a dance - it was a way of connecting with someone on a deeper level.

Surely nothing could beat this.