Page 105 of Heart of The Night

‘Didn’t bring them.’

‘Bummer. I ain’t no servant.’

‘Well, actually, you’re my cherished personal butler,’ William replied.

‘You got that wrong. I’m your king.’

‘Please,’ William scoffed. ‘William is a king’s name. Jason implies you’re the son of a Jay. Ergo, your name is pathetic and unimaginative. Open the gates, son of Jay.’

‘Of hell?’ Jason quipped. ‘That is where you belong.’

‘If you don’t open this door, I’ll certainly bring you hell.’

Olivia and I glanced at each other in the mirror, both giggling.

‘This is my castle,’ Jason replied, sounding like a brat. ‘My rules. And just so you know, my name stems from Greek mythology, after a hero, and means “healer”. So all right, you might have a king’s name, but I’d rather have a hero’s.’

‘William is the name of both heroes and kings, you dim clown. Not only that, but—’

Olivia stole my attention, saying, ‘He’s going to be speechless.’ Taking a step back, she admired her handiwork, her eyes twinkling with admiration. ‘You look absolutely radiant.’

I beamed, excitement swirling within me. Standing up, I studied myself in the full-length mirror. The maroon satin clung to my curves, the deep, rich colour highlighting my skin in the most flattering way. Thin straps trailed over my shoulders, delicate and elegant, leading to the low back that left my skin exposed. The fabric fell in soft, luxurious waves to the floor, a perfect blend of sophistication and allure.

I turned slightly, admiring the way the dress moved with me, each shift of my body making the satin shimmer. I hoped it would match the image William had in his mind, the one he seemed so enthused about.

Olivia’s eyes met mine in the mirror, and she smiled with pride. ‘You look stunning, Cara. Absolutely stunning.’

‘Thanks to you,’ I said, feeling a rush of confidence.

‘Hardly.’ She handed me my purse, its smooth, black design a perfect complement to the dress. ‘Now, go steal his breath.’

Chuckling, I turned and walked toward the hall, my heart pounding and fluttering with nerves. Jason was just ending the call with William as I approached, his face lit up with a mischievous grin as he turned toward me.

‘Your chariot awaits,’ he said. Then, his eyes ballooned, his expression shifting to one of awe. ‘Jesus Christ, Cara.’ His Adam’s apple rose and fell. ‘You’ll have Will dropping to his knees.’

My cheeks warmed at his reaction. ‘Well, he’ll have himself and Livy to thank.’

Jason shook his head, a teasing smile playing on his lips. ‘No, love. He’ll have you to thank. Will and Livy just brought out what’s already there.’

Olivia nodded beside me, her expression earnest. ‘He’s right. Will and I might’ve helped, but you’re the one who’s truly magnificent.’

My heart swelled with gratitude, and I gave them both a grin. ‘Thanks, guys. Really.’

Jason performed an elaborate bow, gesturing toward the door as if I were royalty. ‘Now, let’s get you to your prince.’ He grasped the doorknob and turned it, opening the door with a flourish. Just beyond, William was climbing the stairs. He froze mid-step when he saw me, his eyes flaring wide with a mix of surprise and admiration.

His studied me intently, taking in every detail, and I could feel the weight of his gaze as it traced the contours of my dress and the arrangement of my hair. His mouth parted slightly, and he seemed to forget how to breathe. Reaching for the stair railing, he gripped it so hard his knuckles turned white, as if desperately needing the support.

‘Cara,’ he said, his voice thick with emotion. ‘I… I’m lost for words.’

I barely registered his reaction; I was overwhelmed by the sheer view of him, rendered speechless. He stepped forward, his black dinner suit clinging perfectly to his athletic frame. His white dress shirt peeked from beneath the dark waistcoat, the contrast drawing attention to the meticulous black bow tie at his throat. He reached up, adjusting it with a nervous swallow as he stopped before me.

I blushed profusely, struggling to comprehend that he was even real and not some figment of my imagination.

‘Will,’ I breathed, my voice barely audible as I stared up at him. ‘You look… incredible.’

His light-blue eyes held mine, sparkling with a brilliance that made my heart race. ‘Darling, I’m just the background tonight; you’re the star.’

Jason cleared his throat, momentarily breaking the spell between us. ‘Right, lovebirds. Off you go.’

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