Inaya leaned closer, her tone dropping to a hushed excitement. “There’s something I didn’t get a chance to tell you before your speech. Ronan… he donated an additional two million euros to the show.”
I blinked, her words sinking in slowly. “What?”
She nodded, her voice hushed but excited. “His assistant quietly sent it over.”
A mixture of shock and confusion crashed over me. “Ronan?” I repeated, my voice softer this time, almost to myself. “But… why? He already donated enough. ”
Inaya shrugged, though her gaze was sympathetic. “I have no idea why he did it.”
I looked away, processing. I wasn’t sure how to feel or if I even knew him anymore. But here he was, showing up in my life again in ways I couldn’t predict. The thought unsettled me, stirred something in me I’d tried hard to let go of.
Inaya watched me closely, her expression softening. “I know it’s a lot. But ma—”
I let out a shaky breath, feeling more off-balance than I wanted to admit. “No, we’re not doing this tonight.”
She placed a comforting hand on my arm. “Okay.”
“What are we whispering about?” Ale asked, placing a hand on my arm.
“Oh, we ju—”
Of fucking course.
Chapter Eleven
RONAN
Present Day
ITALY
The only thing I hated more than being late was when other people caused that lateness. Nevertheless, I got to the show before it started and took my seat. The venue, the art, the clothes—everything about this environment was splendid. I knew she was doing well; all the reports I’d gotten over the years confirmed she was kicking ass in the industry.
But tonight, there was something more. Her talent was fierce, her vision a masterpiece of inclusivity that left everyone breathless. The entire room was riveted to the stage, but my gaze was locked on her alone. I’d grown bored of it all—the endlessboardrooms, the predictable forums, even hospital rounds. But her? Never. She was the one constant, the one spark that never dimmed. I could watch her forever, and still, it wouldn’t be enough.
As I took in her progress, I felt something tighten in my chest—a pride so fierce it undid me. My eyes misted, a traitorous moment, but I blinked it away quickly. She was extraordinary, and watching her become everything she’d dreamed of was something I could never take for granted.
I was about to give my final applause to the last model, then I instantly caught sight of Nina.God help me.I couldn’t tear my eyes away from her.
She was… breathtaking. That emerald dress. I remembered it well; it was the piece she’d painstakingly sketched for months and sewn for nearly a year. It was also the one I’d let someone model at the Christmas show I’d put on for her years ago. The deep V-neckline, trimmed with lace, led my gaze down her collarbone, every inch familiar, yet mesmerizing. When she moved, the dress swayed to the floor with each step, revealing the faintest glimpse of her heels. It was like she was floating, a vision brought to life.
Then there were those dark, deep brown eyes sparkling under the lights, framed by lashes so thick and long they looked like they were spun from dreams. Her braids, pulled into a high ponytail, caught the light with each movement, each strand glowing as if it were part of some celestial being. The warmth of her skin, rich and radiant, contrasted beautifully with the dress. I could barely breathe looking at her.
Tiny beads shimmered across her dress like a constellation, shifting with every step. An emerald pendant rested above her heart, perfectly matched to her gown, while diamond studs and a delicate bracelet adorned with emerald stones added to her effortless elegance. She didn’t just command attention—shecaptivated it, and I was helplessly drawn in.
I couldn’t take my eyes off her. My mind was racing, and my heart was pounding in my chest.
It felt like the world had come to a standstill, and all I could see was her. The way she moved, the way she smiled—it was all too much, too beautiful.
I must have been staring for too long because Rachel nudged me gently and whispered, “Are you okay?”
I blinked, snapping out of my daze. “Yeah,” I muttered, barely convincing even myself. “Just… Wow.”
She raised an eyebrow but didn’t press further. I couldn’t blame her for being concerned. I was completely mesmerized.
The show ended, and gathering my courage, I got up from my seat and made my way backstage. She most likely didn’t want to see me, especially not after our run-in earlier, but I had to see her.
As I rounded the corner, I saw her embedded in a hug with someone. A sharp pang of jealousy stabbed through me, and I felt my hands clench into fists.
