Chapter 227
Chapter 227:
Yelena glanced at her reflection and smiled faintly, her confidence quietly radiant. She had achieved the look she wanted—graceful and unassuming, yet impossible to ignore.
Bella, on the other hand, watched the process with thinly veiled irritation. Every stroke of the brush on Yelena’s already flawless skin felt like a reminder of her own struggles. Unlike her sister, Bella’s complexion required constant attention—an endless battle against oiliness and imperfections.
Her envy simmered beneath the surface, threatening to spill over.
When her turn came, Bella took control.
“Do this,” she said, pointing at her reflection. “No, more contour. I want my features sharper p>
The stylists exchanged weary glances but followed her demands, layering heavy makeup to create the dramatic effect Bella craved. While her suggestions bordered on excessive, they complied, knowing their reputation depended on satisfying Donna’s daughters.
The end result was striking, if a bit theatrical. Bella admired herself in the mirror, nodding with satisfaction. If Yelena relied on natural charm, Bella would rely on sheer presence.
The true transformation happened when the sisters donned their gowns.
Yelena stepped into a white, off-shoulder fishtail dress that hugged her figure as if it had been crafted just for her. The fabric glimmered softly with each movement, accentuating her lithe frame and effortless grace.
Bella, by contrast, made a bolder statement. Her bright pink gown demanded attention, its vibrant hue impossible to ignore. The dramatic V-neckline and oversized bow at the back gave it an air of grandeur, amplifying her unapologetic flair. Every detail of the dress was designed to make an impression, emphasizing her commanding presence.
She twirled in front of the mirror, watching the fabric flare dramatically around her.
𝙇ⲁ𝓉𝖊𝓼𝓉 с𝖍ⲁρ𝓉𝗲𝓇𝓈
Tonight, the spotlight would belong to her.
Bella draped a pearl necklace around her neck, her fingers gliding over the smooth surface of the beads.
At first, she had assumed Yelena would wear the stunning pink diamond necklace Cayson had gifted her. But to Bella’s surprise, Yelena passed on it.
Jewelry had never been Yelena’s thing. The idea of wearing such extravagant pieces felt like a magnet for unwanted attention.
She preferred to fly under the radar at these kinds of events, staying out of the limelight and blending into the background.
But, as usual, life had other plans. Yelena hadn’t anticipated facing any challenges at what should’ve been a simple gathering.
Once they were ready, Donna gave the final nod and instructed the driver to head out.
Before they left, Donna reminded Bella to look out for Yelena, since it was her first time at such a high-society gathering and the nerves might get to her.
Bella, a seasoned pro at these events, flashed a reassuring smile. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ve got Yelena covered.” There was a glint of mischief in her eyes.
She had her own version of “taking care” of Yelena.
Yelena gave Bella a glance but said nothing.
As long as Bella kept things civil, Yelena could handle whatever came her way.