#Chapter 69: The Model

Aria We’d been at this for hours now, primping and prodding in preparation for the masquerade tonight. Bella was like my drill sergeant, commanding me to don this color eyeshadow, smear this lipstick shade across my lips, spray just the right amount of perfume. It felt like we were teens again, back at the youth home, preparing for prom. “Hold still,” Bella commanded, wielding the mascara wand like it was a weapon. “I am holding still,” I protested, trying not to blink as she leaned in. She sighed dramatically. “If you keep squirming, you’ll end up with raccoon eyes.” I chuckled. “Fine, fine. I’ll be as still as a statue.” She finished applying the mascara and stepped back to admire her work. “There! You look absolutely stunning.” I glanced at my reflection in the mirror. The elegant black dress hugged my curves perfectly, and the Venetian cat mask matched everything perfectly. Bella really had done an excellent job with my makeup—smoky eyes an