Page 4 of Sebastian

“Well, a skating rink in River Oaks is pretty unforgettable,” I say, grabbing the two pieces and a pair of dazzling silver stilettos with the ensemble before exiting the closet with Taylor following on my heels.

I carefully style my hair into an elegant high ponytail that complements the jumpsuit, skillfully apply makeup, giving my eyes a smoky look, and add a bold red lip to match the fabric’s vibrant shade. As I get ready, Jinkies wanders in and out of the room, meowing for attention.

Once satisfied with my hair and makeup, I step into the red jumpsuit, slip on the silver stilettos, and finish with the velvet blazer. I give myself a once-over in the mirror and smile, confident in my choice when I add my silver jewelry.

Jinkies weaves around my legs when Taylor walks out of my dressing room in a tight black dress accentuating her curves.

“You look stunning,” I compliment, and her smile brightens.

“It’s a new dress. Do you think Paolo will like it?”

Her hands run nervously over the fabrics of her dress to smooth out the invisible wrinkles, which is unlike Taylor. Sinceshe started dating him, she’s laughing more, appearing more relaxed, and seems to be having a fun time. His youthful energy calms her, especially at work, where she gets so uptight. He wanders into her office and erases it all. It’s cute to see firsthand.

They had done a remarkable job keeping their relationship a secret for the unsuspecting people at the office over the last couple of months. To the more observant party, you might notice the unnecessary touches and lingering eye contact. Otherwise, they take it very seriously at work, except when she comes out of the elevator looking a little rumpled, and he’s wearing a shit-eating grin when they exit.

“He’ll definitely love it. I wouldn’t be surprised if you two disappear upstairs into a bedroom like we did back in college,” I tease, her cheeks slightly flushed.

She returns to my dressing room to retrieve something while I gather my purse, lipstick, and phone. With everything in hand, I order the car and then give Jinkies some extra attention, hoping it won’t be too long before I return home to her.

With one last check in the mirror, I swipe a fingernail under my lipliner to collect a stray smear of color and say, “The car should be here in ten minutes.”

I run my hands over my smooth hair, ensuring it’s perfect, and feel anticipation and nerves building within me. Maybe this won’t be a total disaster. At the very least, I’ll have my best friend by my side and see how most of our wealthy clients live.

My stilettos click softly on the polished marble floors leading out of my building to the awaiting car. I don’t live far from Sebastian’s house, so Taylor and I chat about work as the ride-share driver slowly stops in a line of cars waiting to enter the lavish party. It’s clear that this event is highly anticipated, as evidenced by the trail of idling vehicles trying to gain access to it.

Police officers are on hand, expertly directing traffic down the crowded street to maintain order. Flashing lights and theoccasional bullhorn relaying traffic instructions add to the aura of grandeur surrounding the event. Some children and their families opt to be dropped off and walk the rest of the way up the street to avoid the congestion.

“Wow, this is . . .” I murmur, gazing out the window at the sheer volume of people pouring into this event. Realizing that making a quick getaway, if necessary, might prove challenging spikes my anxiety.

“I believe he said there’s supposed to be over one hundred children coming and their families, so probably over a thousand people will be here,” Taylor admits, and my fingertips start tapping the armrest.

This event is far more extensive than the usual Christmas parties I attend. The number of people is more akin to the grand New Year’s Eve galas hosted by downtown hotels.

My excitement and trepidation build as our car inches closer to the entrance gates, which previews the breathtaking winter theme that seems to have transformed the entire front of the property. The entrance gates are adorned with elegant white wreaths and twinkling lights that create a warm welcome.

Massive snowflakes, intricately crafted and glistening with frost, hang from the branches of old oak trees that dot the expansive property. Powdery snow blankets the ground beneath them. The entire scene is so enchanting that it feels like we’ve entered a storybook setting. After handling the driver and getting out of the car, the crisp air sweeps over my body, and I’m glad I wore the blazer to block out the chill.

The expansive driveway stretches along the right side of the property, winding its way over a picturesque stone bridge that spans a man-made creek halfway to the house. The grand residence, still hidden from view, sits far off the front of the road, adding an air of mystery and intrigue. This is truly an immersive experience, and the scale of the event leaves me in awe.

“This is absolutely stunning.” I breathe in the fresh air and feel the chill from the snow covering the front yard. “What does this guy do for a living to afford all this?”

Excited children run past us to race inside, leaving their parents to trail behind. I certainly overdressed for the event, but what else is new? Overdressed is better than underdressed is my motto.

“Family wealth,” she murmurs while taking in the organized chaos.

Ahead of us is a petting zoo, with camel rides to the left. Beyond that is a house too large to be a single house. It looks more likehousesthat share a roofline as the front facades go on and on. There’s a massive sleigh for children to take their picture inside and elves in green costumes to assist in and out as a photographer dressed as Santa Claus snaps their official picture commemorating the event.

“Did you want to climb up there and get your picture taken?”

“After the camel ride, of course. Seriously, did Paolo’s friend do all this?”

“Yes, he’s certainly hosting a spectacular event.” Taylor’s admiration for Sebastian’s efforts is evident, and I can’t help but share in her awe. “Looks like he went all out.”

As the lines for the camel ride and the petting zoo grow longer, Taylor takes out her phone and texts Paolo to inquire as to his whereabouts, hoping to meet him amidst the festivities. We follow the flow of the crowd, veering to the right, passing the side of the mansion, and entering an ice sculpture garden. As we make our way further, the expansive backyard of the property comes into view.

“This is truly beyond anything I’ve ever seen before.”

My voice is barely audible above the increasing cadence of excited children and the various booths and tents offering different activities and food. The chaotic atmosphere spikes myanxiety even further, and I can’t help but feel a bit out of my element amidst the exuberant festivities.

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