Chapter 34 Royal Gala

Mia arrived home, her mind still lingering on the lavish dinner she had just shared with Lord. Alexander. For a fleeting moment, she found herself thinking about Alessandro's well-being but quickly pushed the concern aside. After all, he had a team of doctors, dedicated staff, and his fiancée to ensure he was taken care of. Once home, Mia efficiently packed for the next day while stealing moments to play with her energetic twins. Emily, her ever-reliable assistant, helped rearrange her work schedule to accommodate the unexpected plans Alexander had mentioned. With him confirming their return the following day, Mia knew she had to prepare meticulously. True to his word, Alexander appeared at her doorstep the next morning as the first light of dawn painted the sky. They embarked on the journey to Fontainebleau in the Duke's exquisite limited edition Range Rover, the quiet hum of the engine filling the air during the hour- long drive. As they arrived at the grand hotel owned by the Duke, Mia couldn't help but marvel at the elegance and opulence that surrounded her. They checked into their suites, and Mia began to unpack her things. "Shit. I don't have anything to wear to a royal gala. What am I going to do now?" Mia muttered to herself, eyeing the clothes she had hastily packed. hadn't had time to shop, given the short notice. Just then, she heard a knock on the door. Quickly closing her suitcase, she went to open it and found Lord Alexander with a man in a designer suit. Behind them, a trail of racks with clothes was being carried by a few staff members. "Mia, this is Lawrence. He'll be arranging everything you need to get ready for the gala," Lord Alexander told her, gesturing for Lawrence to enter her room. "Um, you don't have to do this," Mia said, biting her lip hesitantly. "I know I invited you on very short notice and you wouldn't have had time to shop. It's my responsibility to provide everything you need," he said softly. "Thank you," Mia murmured, touched by his thoughtfulness. He was a caring and responsible person, and she sincerely hoped he would find his lost sister soon, for whom they had been searching for so long. "No problem, the Duke shook his head with a warm smile. "I have some work to do. I'll see you in the evening," he said, turning to leave. Just as he reached the door, he turned back to face Mia. "By the way, you have a personal steward to attend to you, and you can ask for anything, even a tour of nearby places." Mia giggled. "Thank you for your kindness, Lord Alexander," she said, taking his offer some other time. For now, I playfully. "But I don't have time to visit places right now. Maybe some other time. For now, I need to get ready for the gala. Let me know if you need a helping hand with preparations," she offered. "No, everything is managed. I will see you in the evening then, Alexander replied before departing. Mia closed the door and found the designer had uncovered the clothes on the racks. Her eyes widened with astonishment-they were all exclusive editions. She chose a red gown that was off-shoulder with a thigh-high slit, giving a classy and elegant feel for the occasion. They had also brought accessories, and she preferred a sleek diashond necklace and long earrings, paired with nude pumps. As Mia slipped into the gown, she felt the luxurious fabric glide over her skin. The dress fit. perfectly, hugging her curves and enhancing her silhouette. She stepped into the nude pumps, the final touch to her ensemble. The sleek diamond necklace and long earrings shimmered as she moved, catching the light and adding a touch of sparkle. Mia glanced at herself in the full-length mirror, hardly recognizing the glamorous woman. staring back at her. The transformation was stunning. She took a moment to admire the elegant lines of the gown and the way it complemented her features. "Perfect," she murmured to herself, a smile spreading across her face. After thanking the designer and his staff for their impeccable taste and help, Mia turned her attention to her makeup. She sat down at the vanity and opened her makeup kit, selecting at nude lipstick that added a subtle, sophisticated touch to her look. She applied shimmery eyeshadow that made her eyes pop, followed by a generous coat of mascara and a sleek line of eyeliner. A soft pink blush brought a healthy glow to her cheeks. Finally, she curled the ends of her blonde hair, the loose waves adding a touch of effortless. glamour. With one last look in the mirror, Mia felt a surge of confidence. She was ready for the gala, poised and polished, ready to step into the evening with grace and elegance. She didn't realize how much time had passed while she got ready until there was another knock on the door. As she walked in her nude pumps and opened the door, she found the Duke standing there in a sleek black tuxedo, looking devilishly handsome as he smiled at her. "You look stunning," he complimented, offering his arm. "You don't look bad yourself," Mia smiled as she hooked her slender arm in his. They made their way to the gala, which was organized in the grand hall of the hotel. As if sensing her shivering despite the well-maintained temperature inside, Lord Alexander asked, "Are you cold?" "No, I'm nervous," Mia replied with an awkward laugh. "You don't have to be nervous," Alexander assured her. "You look great." "Thanks, but I've never been to a royal gala before," Mia admitted. "Don't worry, I'll be there with you. And my mother will be coming soon," Alexander said. "Her Highness hasn't arrived yet?" Mia asked with curiosity. "No, she's on her way and delayed because of the snowfall. The roads were blocked. But she will be here any moment," the Duke asserted. Mia took a deep breath, feeling slightly more at ease with Alexander's reassurance. As they entered the grand hall, the opulence of the event struck her. Chandeliers sparkled overhead, and elegantly dressed guests mingled, their conversations a soft hum in the background. Alexander guided her through the crowd, his presence steadying her nerves. "You'll do just fine," he whispered, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. Mia smiled, feeling a bit more confident as they moved further into the grand hall.