16. Cocktail Party

Despite the fact that this event is supposed to be an important one, I don’t receive any assistance in getting ready like I did for the engagement party.

It was a tremendous waste of time and money, in my opinion, considering the fact that I was only at the party for about thirty minutes, but since it wasn’t my money or time wasted, I don’t really care.

Hubert brings me a new dress, which is what I’m expected to wear tonight. It’s a lovely gown that’s not too formal but not casual enough to wear outside a formal event. It’s just the kind of dress that anyone should have one of—thin sleeves, a decent side slit with no embellishment on it whatsoever.

“I picked it myself,” Hubert informs me. “I thought it would suit you.”

“Thank you, Hubert,” I say with a small smile. Whenever I’m in his presence, I feel safe and seen. Though he works for Igor and will always ultimately be loyal to him, he’s good to me, and I don’t have the feeling that he betrays my feelings to Igor whenever I confide