CHAPTER 8

I walked into an exorbitant, most beautiful ballroom filled with gorgeous art and music, the lights were breathtaking and the chandelier sitting in a warm embrace shining bright like a diamond. Perhaps it was made of diamonds? 

I walked into the ballroom, my red dinner gown that swept the floor, my exquisite diamond stones on the dress complimented my diamond handbag which drew so much attention and stares. Felix had earlier gotten me a set of jewelry, bag and shoes all diamonds to match my red dress. 

Walking side by side with my husband, my arm in his, I felt somewhat protected and safe from everything. Although it was just to showcase how ‘incredible’ our relationship was and how ‘amazing’ our marriage was going. 

I never for once imagined myself being in a gathering with people I see on the news and the ones I read about in articles. I felt important to be distinguished as an ‘Elite’. 

“You look amazing” Felix whispered into my ear 

I could feel the rush in my adrenaline, my face turning red, my insides twisting as I choked on the exquisite champagne passing down my throat at his statement. 

“Thank you, you look great also” I giggled

‘I always knew he had a soft spot in him’ I said to myself. Moving around in his arms exchanging pleasantries with people of high caliber like Felix and seeing how he praised me at these people's presence not only made me smile but also made me feel so special, I lost every sad memories of us. I forgot all the yelling and ill treatment. 

The joyful atmosphere was contagious as I sat smiling from ear to ear. I was involved in lots of business conversations and had the opportunity to use my intellectual knowledge on strategies and analysis and I couldn’t have been more proud of myself.

 I smiled in great awe knowing full well Felix Bailey was so proud of my speeches. 

“I fit in quite well” I whispered in his ears 

“You’ll always fit in everywhere, you’re perfect and unique. Your aura is so beautiful and trust me when I say you’re an amazing wife and businesswoman. I’ll continue to let you know how stunning you look tonight. YOU ARE SO BEAUTIFUL!!!!” He said back at me with the most affectionate eyes and the calmest and sweetest voice. 

I couldn’t help but think it was the champagne that was having an effect on Felix because his statements and body language at this event and on this day was unbelievable. His words sounded so real and reassuring. His sparkling eyes calling out love and affection. 

Few hours into the ball, Felix was having conversations with colleagues and friends and I just sat pretty having random conversations with random people and I loved it. Although I wasn’t friends with any of them, it was good talk and they were nice to me. 

Not until I saw the lady I had caught my husband with at his office did I had a nice time. 

‘Ughhh’ I sighed

 I couldn’t be more irritated, annoyed and displeased. The list could go on and on. Not when I thought things were going smoothly and I felt there would be changes, things went back to how it was. 

•••

Maya walks into the ballroom in a blue dress, attracting  everyone to her and makes heads turn. She walks towards me flirtatiously and starts touching and hugging me in the presence of everyone. 

‘Ughhh not today’ I hissed

I dragged her into an empty room stylishly to avoid eyes and talks 

“WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE YOU DOING HERE?” I asked, trying to whisper but to no avail. I couldn’t hide my disgust and anger 

The irritation in me could explode. I wanted tonight to end smoothly and happily. My wife in my arms back to the mansion and we spend the night as blissfully as we should. 

“What do you think you’re trying to do coming here Maya? And not just here existing on your own you had to walk over to me to make jokes? Do you think I’ll be happy smiling ear to ear seeing you? I’m here with my wife and you know it. You know quite well this is a public gathering and the paparazzi are available to make a headline” I said nonstop in disgust

“Oh now she’s your wife?” she scoffed 

“I thought she’s just a cheap thing in need of a fast way to make money. You told me she meant nothing to but here you are defending her” she said 

“You knew a wedding happened, a PUBLIC wedding and you should know that means she’s my wife. Look, you have no right to an explanation. Now if you’ll excuse me I have to get back her” I said walking away from the room with anger

Laughing and giggling, Dana was having a nice time having conversations with ladies and it was the most beautiful thing I had seen today. 

Her smile, her voice,  everything about her made me extremely happy and I felt lucky to have her. I just can’t show her how she actually makes me feel. 

I could stare at her gracefully built body and face all day and never get tired or bored. Walking up to her with a wide smile on my face I could feel the warmth in her voice. 

“You seem to be having a lot fun” I smiled to her 

“Yeah…. They are nice people so it’s not difficult. Are you done with Maya?” She asked looking directly into my eyes 

I could feel the anger surfacing. “Look, I just put her in her place, that's all I did. She’s not here for me nor am I here for her.  Don’t ruin the moment” I said trying to reassure her 

“Hmm….. that’s fine then” she said 

“Can I go back to my conversation or you have something else to say?” She asked her angelic voice calming every nerves down in my chest 

“Can I have this dance?” A male voice called out from behind asking my wife for the dance