Chapter 14: Gala

As the evening of the gala approached, Zain and Edith found themselves in their hotel room, getting ready for the event. The room was filled with the soft glow of dimmed lights, casting shadows across the walls as they prepared for their mission.

Edith stood in front of the full-length mirror, adjusting the straps of her sleek black dress. Her hair fell in loose waves around her shoulders, framing her face in an elegant cascade.

Meanwhile, Zain stood nearby, fussing with his tie in front of another mirror. He wore a classic black suit that accentuated his tall, muscular frame, the crisp white shirt, and neatly folded pocket square adding a touch of sophistication. Edith glanced over and chuckled at his struggles.

"Need some help there, pretty boy?" she teased, crossing the room to stand beside him.

Zain rolled his eyes, though there was a hint of amusement in his expression. "I think I've got it under control, thanks," he replied, attempting to straighten his tie.

Edith smirked and reached out to fix his tie, her fingers deftly adjusting the knot until it lay perfectly against his collar. Zain held still, watching her with a mixture of amusement and appreciation.

"Thanks," he said, his voice softer now.

Edith nodded in acknowledgment before turning around to reveal the back of her dress. "Your turn," she said, holding her hair to the side.

Zain stepped forward, carefully zipping up the back of her dress with practiced ease. His fingers brushed against her skin as he worked, sending a shiver down Edith's spine. She quickly pushed the feeling aside, focusing on the task at hand.

Once they were both ready, they made their way to the gala venue, a grand ballroom filled with the elite of the city. As they approached the entrance, they were stopped by the doorman, who seemed to hesitate as he checked his list.

"I'm sorry, but I don't see your names here," he said, furrowing his brow in confusion.

Zain glanced at Edith, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a $100 bill, slipping it into the doorman's hand with a wink. "I'm sure you'll find a way to let us in," he said smoothly.

The doorman's expression softened as he pocketed the money, nodding in agreement. "Of course, sir. Right this way," he replied, stepping aside to let them through.

Inside the gala, the air was filled with the sound of chatter and laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the soft strains of music. Zain and Edith mingled with the crowd, sipping champagne and exchanging polite conversation as they made their way through the room.

Zain insisted that their interactions were simply for appearances, but Edith couldn't help but tease him as they danced slowly to the music.

"Can't you take advantage of the privilege of dancing with the most desired woman of the associates?" she quipped, a playful glint in her eyes.

Zain chuckled, twirling her around with practiced ease. "Please, I'm doing you a favor," he replied, his tone light. 

He raised his eyebrow as he saw a discrepancy in the fabric of her dress, "Aw, I'm flattered is that just for me?"

Edith rolled her eyes, "Unless I plan on stabbing you, not anytime soon." 

Zain's hand rested gently on the small of Edith's back, guiding her effortlessly as they swayed to the rhythm. His touch was firm yet gentle, radiating a sense of confidence and control. Edith's hand rested lightly on Zain's shoulder, her fingers curling delicately around the fabric of his suit. She moved with a natural grace, her body flowing with the music as if it were an extension of her very being.

Their movements were fluid and elegant, a dance of subtle gestures and unspoken communication. With each step, they seemed to draw closer together, their bodies moving in perfect harmony. And as they danced, they couldn't help but wonder what the future held for them, both in their mission and in their complicated relationship. But for now, they simply focused on the music, allowing it to carry them away into the night.

They laughed together, their movements fluid as they moved across the dance floor. But beneath the facade of laughter and smiles, they both knew that their true mission was about to begin.

Through Edith and Zain’s earpieces they heard, “Guys, you know we can see you right? Never mind, play time’s up your mission is officially starting.” Markus said. Edith and Zain shared a glance and they broke apart as the music ended, mingling through the crowd toward the main entrance.

K.M Strunk