Baldwin's Mansion
The soft glow of the vanity lights painted the walk-in closet in a golden haze, wrapping Savannah in a kind of quiet solitude that often lingered before a storm. The satin burgundy dress she wore clung to her body like a second skin-elegant, seductive, and haunting. The cowl neckline draped effortlessly, baring her collarbones like fragile art, and the thin straps hugged her shoulders with delicate grace. Every inch of her appearance was curated to perfection, yet inside... she was unraveling thread by thread.
Her long, dark hair cascaded in wavy curls down her back, touched by a hint of perfume and an air of practiced glamour. Leaning into the mirror, she watched as the curve of her lips transformed into a rich crimson as she applied her red lipstick—the final touch in her armor.
Taking a steady breath, Savannah rose from the vanity and made her way to the edge of the velvet settee. She reached for the stiletto heels waiting at her feet—sharp, pointed, and stunning. Just like her.
But before her fingers could grasp them, another pair of hands came into view. Large, confident hands that gently lifted the heels away.
Blaze.
Of course.
He knelt in front of her, dressed immaculately in a tailored black suit, his hair styled effortlessly, his presence -commanding, as always. The room shifted with his arrival, like gravity bending to his will.
"How many times do I have to remind you," he murmured, lifting her foot with care and slipping the heel on with deliberate precision, "that it's my duty to do this for you?"
Savannah remained silent.
She simply observed him—her expression unreadable, her eyes quiet yet piercing. She felt the weight of his hands, the possessiveness masked as affection. The echoes of his promises, laced with deception, clung to her like the lingering scent of his cologne.
He fastened the second heel and looked up at her, his gaze softening. "You look absolutely ethereal," he whispered, almost in awe.
Yet, she remained silent. No smile. No thank you. Just a stillness that felt more like the calm before a storm than anything peaceful.
She stood up and walked across the room to the full-length mirror. Blaze followed suit, his eyes tracking her like a hawk eyeing its prey.
In the mirror's reflection, she studied herself. The dress shimmered with every breath she took. Her makeup was flawless, her face composed. But her eyes... her eyes betrayed her. They held a sorrow too profound for words, a quiet rage simmering just beneath the surface.
Blaze stepped behind her, his gaze fixed on her back. He didn't dare touch her—not yet.
"Ready?" he asked, his voice smooth as silk.
Savannah turned to face him, their eyes locking. She offered the faintest nod. Nothing more.
With that, they both stepped out of the closet, her heels clicking softly against the marble floor, his steps steady beside hers. From the outside, they appeared to be the perfect couple—elegant, powerful, desired. But beneath that polished exterior... a silent battle raged.
And tonight was just another battlefield.
The Venue
The evening had transformed into something extravagant and ostentatious, a display of wealth and power, every detail meticulously crafted. The long driveway leading to the venue sparkled under soft amber lights, winding through an estate that resembled a castle more than a mere event hall. Columns of white marble reached for the sky, and above the grand doors, intricate gold filigree shimmered beneath chandeliers that hung like stars.
Arthur, ever the epitome of professionalism, stepped out from the front seat and gracefully opened the rear passenger door. Blaze Baldwin emerged, exuding tailored elegance—his black tuxedo sharp, his expression as unreadable as ever, the master of composed charisma.
Without missing a beat, Blaze moved around the vehicle and opened the other door, extending a hand.
Inside, Savannah Baldwin adjusted the fabric of her burgundy gown before placing her hand into his. Her fingers slipped into his with ease, though the contact no longer held meaning. It was muscle memory now-rehearsed, necessary for show.
As she stepped out, the satin of her gown caught the light, shimmering like a glass of deep red wine. The cowl neckline embraced her collarbone, and the dress wrapped around her like a gentle whisper. Her soft curls danced against her back as her heels clicked against the stone beneath her. She lifted her gaze, taking in the grandeur of the estate, watching as people gathered like bees drawn to nectar.
"Ana," Blaze murmured softly beside her.
She turned to him.
He offered his arm, and once more, she played her role. Looping her arm through his, they moved forward like a power couple stepping onto a stage—a beautiful deception that no one dared to question.
The grand entrance loomed ahead. Inside, the room was a cathedral of opulence. Warm golden hues filled the hall, reflecting off crystal chandeliers and the polished marble floor. Waiters in white gloves glided through the crowd, carrying silver trays laden with sparkling drinks. Elegant figures mingled, laughing and judging—all under the guise of sophistication.
Savannah's eyes darted around, observing and analyzing. She noticed tightly knit circles: business tycoons whispering numbers over scotch, women sizing each other up with silent disdain, and younger couples flaunting their significance with feigned modesty.
"Baldwin!" a voice called out above the murmur of conversation.
Author's Note :
Thankyou for reading<3
Have a good day/night<3<3