What's He Doing Here?

Elena's Point Of View THE FOLLOWING NIGHT I deliberately took my time. The event was scheduled for 9PM, and I began my makeup at 7:45. I spent fifteen minutes brushing my hair, then another fifteen staring at myself in the mirror. I applied foundation slowly, carefully… then removed it entirely, just to start over. There was no rush. Why should I be early to an event where no one cared whether I showed up? Why go on time to parade myself before vultures who already picked me apart behind closed doors? I left the house at 8:30PM sharp. By the time I stepped into the grand hall, the atmosphere was already thick with perfume, champagne bubbles, and hushed whispers. Golden chandeliers hung above the crowd like frozen fireworks. Long, sleek tables were adorned with crystal and velvet. A classical string quartet played softly near the stage. Everyone was dressed to kill. I wore the gown Graham picked out… an off-shoulder silk dress that shimmered like cold moonlight. I hated that I looked st