chapter eleven

Two days after the party, a luxurious envelope, embossed with golden filigree, arrived at the Zu family's mansion. Delivered by a man in an impeccable black suit, it bore the seal of none other than Anthony Wellington, the wealthiest bachelor in the city.

The moment the butler handed the invitation to me, the atmosphere in the dining hall shifted.

"What is that?" My father, Zu, asked, setting down his newspaper with a furrowed brow.

I opened the envelope slowly, my heart calm despite the piercing stares fixed on me. Inside was an elegantly crafted card, inviting me to an exclusive private event hosted by Anthony Wellington himself.

My mother leaned over to look at the invitation, her eyes narrowing as she read its contents. "Anthony Wellington invited you?" Her tone dripped with disbelief." Emily tell me how did you meet him, hope you didn't do anything to anger him?" She asked with concern written all over her

I kept my expression neutral. "Mum...I....."

Sonia, who had been sipping her tea with a smug look on her face, nearly choked. Coughing, she wiped her mouth and scoffed, cutting me short "That must be a mistake. Why would Anthony Wellington invite you to an event? I believe it's meant for me, there must be a mistake somewhere " she said confidently.

I let out a soft chuckle, placing my hands gracefully on her lap. "My dear it's not a mistake, look it's boldly written here, Emily zu" I replied with a smirk.

Then I turned to my mum " I saved him while coming home, I feel he wants to say his thank you".

My dad, who had remained quiet, finally spoke. "Ok it's good at least you can be useful to this family. Try not to anger him so he can invest in our company's project".

I tilted my head slightly. "I can't guarantee that"

My father's brows knit together in frustration. It was clear they were rattled.

Sonia, sensing the shift, suddenly put on a sweet, eager expression. "Emily," she cooed, "this is such a big event. You must be nervous to go alone."

I arched my brow. "Not really."

"But still," Sonia pouted, "it's better to have company. As your sister, I'd love to go with you!"

"Sonia is right," my mum added smoothly. "You should bring her along. After all, Anthony Wellington's circle is filled with the elite. If someone tries to bully you, at least Sonia will be there to help."

My mum feeling I might be bullied if I go alone agreed for Sonia to go with me so she can guide me on what to and what not to do.

I smiled. "Of course, Sonia. You may come." I agreed because I didn't want to lose the one support I have in the house.

Sonia's eyes lit up, though there was a flicker of surprise at how easily I had agreed.

I turned to my father. "Since Sonia will be attending with me, we'll need proper attire. I trust you'll provide the best."

My dad frowned but nodded. Even if he loathed spending money on me as I'm useless to him, he couldn't afford to let the shinning star show up looking anything less than presentable when representing the Zu family.

Sonia smirked, thinking she had won.

But I was already five steps ahead.

---

That evening, the Zu mansion was filled with a flurry of activity. A well-known stylist had arrived, dressing Sonia and I in custom-made gowns. Sonia wore a deep crimson dress that accentuated her curves, her makeup sharp and dramatic. She looked every bit the confident socialite she pretended to be.

I, on the other hand, wore a sapphire-blue gown that hugged my figure perfectly. The fabric shimmered under the light, flowing elegantly with every movement. My long dark hair was styled in cascading waves, and the diamond earrings I wore sparkled like stars. It was breathtaking.

When I descended the stairs, the entire room went silent. Everyone was stunned at how breathtaking I looked. "You look so beautiful" my mum complimented.

I just smiled because it was weird seeing her nice to me.

Sonia, standing beside my parents, clenched her fists. She had expected me to be dull and forgettable, but I looked radiant-a true vision of grace.

"Shall we go?" I asked smoothly, pretending not to notice Sonia's growing jealousy.

The drive to the event was tense. Sonia sat beside me, forcing a smile while her mind raced with ways to outshine me.

By the time they arrived, the grand ballroom was already bustling with the city's elite. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting a warm glow over the elegant guests dressed in the finest couture. Waiters glided across the room, offering glasses of champagne.

Anthony Wellington, the man of the evening, stood at the far end of the hall, engaged in conversation with other prominent figures. His tall frame and commanding presence made him impossible to miss.

As I stepped into the ballroom, all eyes turned to me. A wave of murmurs rippled through the crowd.

"Isn't that Emily Zu?"

"She looks stunning!"

"But why is she here with Anthony Wellington's guests?"

Sonia clenched her jaw as she overheard the compliments. This was not how it was supposed to go!

Anthony, sensing the shift in the atmosphere, finally looked towards the entrance. The moment his piercing gaze met Emily's, something unspoken passed between them.

A slow, knowing smile tugged at his lips as he walked directly toward her.

Sonia stiffened in shock. *