Chapter 91

"Is there a masquerade ball tonight?" Evelyn Langley flipped through the hotel brochure.

Sophia Laurent nodded excitedly. "It's the hotel's signature event, held every six months. Last time was retro court style, and before that was futuristic tech. This year's theme is Animal Kingdom, and they say ticket sales broke records."

The hotel lobby had transformed into a winter wonderland. A massive Christmas tree glittered with crystal ornaments as ribbons swayed gently in the warm air currents.

Sophia mysteriously pulled two masks from her bag. "I picked these out special for us. Fox for you, lion for me."

Evelyn examined the mask. "Why not tiger?"

"Tiger?"

"Isn't the king of the jungle more impressive?"

Sophia narrowed her eyes. "Evelyn Langley, asking for trouble?"

Evelyn quickly donned her mask and darted toward the elevator. "Come on, the ball's starting!"

"Just wait till I catch you! Who are you calling a tigress?" Sophia chased after her.

......

The 23rd floor ballroom blazed with light.

As the elevator doors opened, Evelyn felt dozens of eyes appraising her. The mask provided unexpected comfort, allowing her to face the unfamiliar crowd with ease.

Sophia dragged her straight to the bar. "Mojito for me. You?"

"Just lemon water."

Sophia rolled her eyes. "Make that a Long Island Iced Tea."

The bartender smirked. "Coming right up."

Evelyn massaged her temples. She didn't notice the intense gaze fixed on her from across the room.

Nathan Evans leaned against a Roman column near the entrance, his black musical note mask glinting coldly under the lights. His impeccably tailored suit jacket hung open at the collar, radiating an unapproachable aura.

Just as he turned to leave, a white-gloved hand with bunny ears touched his shoulder. "Waiting long?"

Chloe Valentine blinked up at him through pink eyeshadow. "I got lost on the 24th floor. They're doing prize drawings tonight - let's try our luck."

Nathan's voice softened unconsciously as he took in her fluffy ears. "Lead the way."

......

Sophia suddenly set down her drink, locking onto a tall wolf-masked figure across the room.

Evelyn waved her off knowingly. "Be safe."

"Obviously!" Sophia pounced toward her prey like the lioness she portrayed.

Left alone at the bar, Evelyn observed the now-roaring ballroom. Masked figures swayed to the music, their obscured faces adding to the electric atmosphere.