The Deal

Chapter 13 - Friends No More

Melina's dress is the left one in yellow.

Melina's pov:

The days passed quickly and the long awaited Duke ball was just hours away. I chose a long yellow dress that fitted my body with tulle sleeves to wear. I did a light makeup. Cat eyes and red lips. My hair was tied up in a bun.

I paired the outfit with a beautiful fox fur coat. After a few hours of getting dressed and doing my makeup and hair, I was finally ready. I took one last satisfied look in the mirror and headed for the door. 

As I was going down the stairs, I saw the back of Stavros waiting for me at the top of the stairs. He wore a black tuxedo with a black coat over it. He looked very handsome and masculine. When he realized my presence he turned back and looked at me with amazement.

-"You look absolutely charming" he said looking me straight in the eyes. Then he took my hand and gave it a small peck. This action gave me the chills. Although this is not the first time a man touches me, never before has a touch had such an effect on me. I just don't understand why Stavros' touch makes me feel this way.

-"Thank you" I said timidly.

He offered his hand which I hesitantly took at the elbow and we both headed for the door. It was a cold night outside. There was not even one cloud in the sky and the stars and constellations were distinct. The moon was three quarters and its light was bright.

A surprise was waiting, at least for me, outside. Instead of a carriage, a beautiful red sports car was waiting for us. Stavros opened the door for me and I entered. Then he jumped in and started the engine. My stomach was in knots. The sound of it gave me a strange feeling.

Although I was scared as it was my first time in a car, I felt excited, free! My adrenaline was really high! I've only seen a car in the newspapers and magazines. I never thought I'd see one of them up close, let alone step inside! Stavros must be a millionaire to be able to buy such an expensive thing. This stuff must worth a fortune!

After my little adventure with Stavros' car we finally arrived at the Duke's house. The mansion was lit from one side to the other. Many well-dressed people were waiting at the main entrance to enter. When we arrived, we inadvertently became the center of attention because of Stavros' car.

Many men and women flocked to admire this feat of technology and human imagination up close. Then we were bombarded with questions about its cost, its speed, the country of origin, etc. Within minutes all this fuss gave me a headache. I wonder how Stavros can answer any question so easily with a smile! This man really amazes me!

With great difficulty we managed to park the car and get inside. Stavros greeted and smiled at almost everyone while I looked withered!

-"Smile my dear! You look like you're going to be hanged" he said through his teeth while continuing to smile so that no one would hear or understand us.

-"I am sorry. I just feel a little dizzy. The noise and all these people before gave me a headache!"

-"Oh, sorry I didn't understand! Do you want to go outside and get some fresh air?" he asked me looking really worried.

-"That would be nice!" I answered quietly.

I can't understand this man. While he is critical and bitter, from one moment to the next, he becomes compassionate and benevolent. What's wrong with him?

We went out to the balcony that looked out over the garden. Although it was a cold night, it was beautiful. The sky was clear and all the stars and constellations were visible and the flowers smelled wonderful.