Contract Marriage With Alpha Snow novel Chapter 223

Chapter 223: First Stage: Preparation Stage

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Chapter 224

~Zara’s POV~

There was tension between Tempest and Ryland and I couldn’t help but notice how Tempest refused to meet his gaze. My curiosity burned, but I chose not to press her.

Luna Star, however, was less restrained. "It’s been a while since you’ve came in, Ryland," she said, her tone warm. "Perhaps you can stay for a bit this time?"

Ryland straightened, his expression shifting to something unreadable. "I’ll stay as long as I’m needed," he replied, his gaze flickering briefly toward Tempest.

Before anyone could respond, Tempest cleared her throat and turned sharply toward the hallway. "We should get moving. There’s a lot to do."

Aira and I exchanged a glance, her grin fading slightly as we fell in step behind Tempest. Ryland’s presence lingered in the air, his watchful gaze following us until we disappeared from view.

As we walked, I leaned closer to Aira and whispered, "Did you see the way he looked at her?"

Aira nodded, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Oh, I saw it. There’s definitely a story there."

Tempest’s voice cut through our quiet speculation, sharp and controlled. "I can hear you two, you know."

Aira and I stifled our giggles, but the exchange only deepened my curiosity.

The double doors of the hall opened, revealing a scene that made me pause mid-step. About fifty young girls filled the room; their faces were full of excitement and nervousness.

At once the chatter of their voices, which had been punctuated by the occasional burst of laughter, stopped abruptly.

Each of them was dressed beautifully, their outfits ranging from elegant dresses to casual but well-coordinated ensembles.

Their individuality shone through—some had carefully styled their hair, and others wore jewelry that glittered under the soft overhead lights.

"They’re all so beautiful," Aira whispered beside me, her voice full of awe.

"They’re definitely ready for this," I said, forcing a small smile. But inside, my nerves twisted tighter.

I was supposed to lead this. These young women were looking to me for guidance, inspiration, and leadership. And I had no idea where to start.

Luna Star stepped forward, her authoritative presence immediately silencing the murmurings in the room.

"Ladies, thank you all for being here. This pageant is a chance for each of you to shine, to discover your strengths, and to grow into the best version of yourselves."

The girls clapped enthusiastically, and Luna Star turned to me, her eyes expectant.

I swallowed hard, stepping up beside her. "Hi, everyone," I began, my voice carrying across the room. "I’m Zara, and I’ll be working with you throughout this journey."

The girls smiled warmly, some nodding encouragingly, but I could feel their expectations. My mind raced, trying to figure out how to begin.

"Well," I continued awkwardly, "we’ll start with... um..." I hesitated as my nerves threatened to choke me.

"Screening process?" Aira piped up beside me, her cheerful tone cutting through the silence.

"You’re absolutely right," I said strongly now. I turned to the group, my confidence returning. "The first step will be about showing us who you are—your personality, your uniqueness, and what makes you you."

"To make it even more fun," I added, "you can bring a prop or anything you feel represents who you are. We want to see you—not just what you look like, but who you are on the inside."