Transmigrated Into The True Heiress-Chapter 121: Plus-one

Ephyra stared at her reflection in the mirror, her expression unreadable. She was dressed in an elegant, floor-length midnight black gown with a sheer overlay. It featured an off-the-shoulder neckline with delicate straps and a fitted bodice adorned with white floral appliqués and beading. The skirt had a thigh-high slit on one side, enhancing the silhouette. The overlay of the dress was embellished with small, glittering accents that gave the appearance of scattered stars across a dark night sky. The diamond-encrusted mask resting on the vanity caught the soft light, its intricate design shimmering like starlight. She picked it up, running her fingers over the delicate patterns before securing it over her face.

"Are you done, Ephyra?" Jania came over, stepping into the room. She was dressed in a sleek, navy blue mermaid gown with a plunging neckline and intricate lace details. Her mask, a mix of silver and blue, complemented her outfit perfectly. She tilted her head, observing Ephyra with a teasing smile. "You look like a queen ready to claim her throne."

Ephyra turned to Jania, the corners of her lips curving into a faint smile. "That’s the idea, isn’t it?" freēwēbηovel.c૦m

Jania stepped closer, adjusting a strand of Ephyra’s hair that had escaped her updo. "Well, you’ve certainly succeeded. Everyone in that ballroom will be talking about you for weeks."

"Let them," Ephyra replied, her tone cool but resolute. She glanced down at her gown, smoothing an invisible crease.

Jania raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Fair enough. Come on, the car’s ready, and we don’t want to be late. Master Lyle is downstairs, ready to bid you goodbye and good luck—whichever one it is."

Ephyra smiled. "Maybe both. Let’s go; we’re late enough."

They made their way out of the room, through the hallways, and down the stairs, where they met Lyle.

"Ephyra, good luck." Lyle’s voice was calm and low as he stared down at her.

Ephyra flashed him a smile. "Thank you, Lyle."

Jania cleared her throat. "Well, the cars are waiting, and we really should get moving."

Ephyra nodded, taking one last look at Lyle before following Jania outside.

Three black luxury cars gleamed under the soft glow of the estate’s outdoor lights, their polished exteriors reflecting the falling snow like fragments of a shattered mirror. The sound of crunching snow accompanied Ephyra and Jania as they made their way down the stone steps, their gowns trailing elegantly behind them.

Ephyra’s sharp gaze caught sight of a figure leaning casually against one of the cars. His black hair was neatly pulled into a bun, and he wore a tailored three-piece suit with a mask.

"Is that Juan?" Ephyra asked, raising an eyebrow in mild surprise.

Jania sighed, the sound tinged with exasperation. "Yes, unfortunately. He insisted on coming. When he found out I was attending the masquerade, he wouldn’t stop bugging me—calls, messages, even showing up at the mansion unannounced. I finally gave in just to get some peace."

Ephyra tilted her head, her lips twitching into the faintest hint of a smirk. "Persistent, isn’t he?"

"You have no fucking idea," Jania muttered, throwing Juan a pointed look as they approached.

"Ladies," Juan greeted smoothly, his deep voice carrying a hint of charm as he stepped forward. He glanced between them, his eyes lingering on Jania for a fraction longer than necessary. "You both look stunning. Ephyra, you’ll be the star of the night, no doubt."

"Thank you, Juan," Ephyra replied coolly, her tone polite but distant as her eyes swept over him with disinterest. "I wasn’t aware you’d be joining us."

Juan chuckled, unbothered by her aloofness. "I’m Jania’s plus-one. But I’ll try to stay out of your way, as much as the masquerade allows."

Jania rolled her eyes. "Just remember, Juan, you’re here as a guest. Don’t start trouble."

He placed a hand over his chest, feigning innocence. "Trouble? Me? You wound me, Jania."

Ephyra turned to the waiting cars, her patience already wearing thin. "Shall we go? The last thing I want is to arrive late."

"I don’t think you know, but we’re thirty minutes late already." Jania chuckled and gestured toward the first car. "You take the lead car. Juan and I will follow."

Without another word, Ephyra made her way to the first vehicle, a driver swiftly stepping forward to open the door for her. She slid into the plush leather interior, the warmth of the car offering a welcome reprieve from the biting cold. Moments later, Jania and Juan climbed into the second car, and the small convoy began its journey toward the banquet venue.

Ephyra stared out the tinted window as the estate disappeared behind them, her thoughts already shifting to the night ahead. Her fingers traced the edge of her mask, a faint smile playing on her lips.

When they arrived, some other guests were also arriving at the same time. Ephyra looked out of the window. It was like a red carpet event, with photographers and reporters stationed at the entrance, their cameras flashing like bursts of lightning in the snowy evening. Guests in extravagant gowns and suits, their faces concealed by ornate masks, exited sleek cars and ascended the grand staircase leading into the venue. Laughter and murmured conversations floated in the air, blending with the crunch of snow underfoot.

Ephyra adjusted her mask, the diamond accents catching the light as the driver opened her door. She stepped out with poise, her gown flowing around her like liquid starlight. The cold nipped at her skin, but she didn’t flinch. Instead, she straightened her posture.

A hush fell over the gathered crowd as she moved toward the staircase. Even masked, her appearance garnered attention. Guests whispered behind gloved hands, speculating about the mysterious woman who seemed to glide rather than walk. Ephyra ignored them, her gaze fixed on the entrance ahead.

Behind her, Jania and Juan emerged from the second car. They trailed behind Ephyra, with Jania throwing sharp glances at the photographers to discourage them from getting too close.

As they reached the top of the staircase, a man in a white tuxedo and gold mask greeted them. "Welcome to the Winter Masquerade Banquet. Your names, please?"