Chapter 16 : Trapped in His Grip

Celeste couldn't say a word.

Alistair had just claimed her in front of dozens of powerful people, as if she were merely a possession to be announced.

Her hands clenched at her sides. She wanted to scream, to deny it, to tell everyone that this was wrong.

But at the same time, she knew the consequences of defying Alistair in public.

"Oh? That's interesting." Mr. Donovan's deep voice broke the tension. "I wonder… how far you'll go to protect her, Alistair?"

Alistair's lips curled into a cold smile. "As far as necessary."

Something in his tone sent a shiver down Celeste's spine.

Mr. Donovan chuckled, patting Alistair's shoulder before walking away, leaving them at the center of everyone's attention.

Alistair's grip on her waist remained firm, as if he feared she might escape at any moment.

"I don't understand…" Celeste whispered, her voice barely audible.

Alistair lowered his gaze to hers, eyes burning with intensity. "What don't you understand, Celeste?"

"What did you mean by… choosing?"

His smile lingered, but something dangerous flickered in his gaze. "You don't need to know that yet. But one thing is clear—you're not going anywhere."

Her chest tightened.

No.

She couldn't remain trapped in his grasp.

She had to find a way out.

But how?

Just as her mind raced for a solution, the microphone crackled to life, followed by the voice of the event's host.

"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us on this special night. In just a moment, we will begin our charity auction. Please remain in your seats and enjoy the event."

Auction?

Celeste frowned, her confusion deepening. She had no idea why Alistair had brought her here.

But the sinking feeling in her stomach grew stronger.

Then, Alistair leaned in, his breath warm against her ear, his voice both soft and commanding.

"Be ready, Celeste. Tonight, I will make sure the entire world knows you are mine."

Her heart pounded violently.

What was Alistair planning this time?

Celeste Felt Her Blood Turn to Ice

What did Alistair mean? What was he planning?

The charity auction began. One by one, luxurious items were showcased—rare paintings, exquisite jewelry, even a limited-edition sports car. The guests casually lifted their paddles, bidding astronomical amounts without a second thought.

But Celeste couldn't focus on any of it.

Not when Alistair was still holding her so tightly, as if she might vanish at any moment.

Then, suddenly…

"And for our final item tonight," the host's voice echoed through the hall, "something truly special."

Celeste watched as a woman stepped onto the stage. She wore a striking red silk gown, her slender frame exuding grace. A mysterious smile adorned her lips as she spoke.

"We've seen many valuable possessions tonight. But what if we offered something more than just material objects?"

A murmur rippled through the crowd.

Celeste stiffened. The energy in the room had shifted.

The woman continued, "Gentlemen, tonight, we present a rare opportunity—an exclusive chance to gain access to someone… truly special."

Celeste's eyes widened.

Wait…

No. That couldn't be.

She turned to Alistair in panic, but he only stared at the stage with a cold, unreadable expression—as if this had all been planned.

"And the fortunate individual we're offering tonight is…" The woman on stage paused, savoring the suspense. Then, with a knowing smile, she finally announced,

"Celeste Laurent."

The entire room fell silent.

Celeste's world collapsed around her.

Alistair's grip on her hand tightened. He leaned down, his breath warm against her ear, his voice quiet but piercing.

"Congratulations, Celeste. Tonight, you will truly become mine."

Terror consumed her.

She had to get out.

Now.