Even in Darkness She Chose to Rise (Tatiana and Jasper) novel Chapter 255

**Even the Night Couldn’t Silence Her Light**
**Chapter 255: The Trap**

“You have a dinner to attend in one hour. It’s crucial,” the voice on the other end of the line stated firmly, cutting through the stillness of the room.

She inhaled deeply, steadying herself. “Understood. I suppose I need to be just a ‘pretty face’ then,” she replied, a hint of irony lacing her tone.

For Ann, there was truly nothing beyond her reach, no task too daunting. She was resolute, determined to meet expectations, even if they demanded more than she felt capable of giving.

Time was of the essence. Just sixty minutes stood between her and the event, and she needed to act decisively.

With a quick glance around her, she strode purposefully into the nearest high-end boutique, her heels clicking against the polished floor as if announcing her arrival.

The previously disinterested staff suddenly straightened up, their demeanor shifting as they realized who had entered their store. She was a vision of beauty, radiating an allure that eclipsed even the most renowned models.

Tatiana wasted no time. She swiftly selected several gowns from the racks, her fingers grazing the luxurious fabrics. When she stepped out in one of the dresses, an audible gasp rippled through the store—every customer turned to behold the spectacle before them.

One of her female bodyguards, a steadfast presence by her side, offered a genuine compliment, “Ma’am, that dress is simply perfect for you.”

Typically, garments of this caliber required meticulous custom fittings, tailored to the unique measurements of the wearer, making it a rarity for anyone to find an off-the-rack piece that suited them flawlessly.

Yet, on Tatiana, it seemed as though the dress had been crafted exclusively for her, hugging her curves in all the right places.

She approached the mirror, inspecting her reflection with satisfaction, before producing her card just as an eager staff member approached, ready to fawn over her choice. “I’ll take it,” she declared confidently.

The staff member began to inquire, “Would you like to—”

“No,” Tatiana interjected, her tone leaving no room for debate. “I need you to find matching shoes and accessories. Quickly, please.”

Her accent was impeccable, each word articulated with precision.

The staff member’s face brightened, a smile breaking across her features. “Of course! Right away!”

The gown she wore was the boutique’s latest and most extravagant creation, priced in the six figures—an item they were fortunate to sell a handful of each season.

This was no ordinary purchase; it was a VIP transaction.

Within moments, the store was transformed into a personal showroom for her, showcasing the newest, priciest, and most exquisite items available.

Tatiana exchanged a glance with her bodyguard, who simply stated, “The boss instructed not to worry about the cost. He just needs you to look the part.”

Understanding the implications, she nodded.

“That one, and that one over there. Yes, those,” she directed, her discerning eye quickly identifying the perfect accessories without needing assistance.

Once she donned the entire ensemble, her mere presence commanded attention, drawing every gaze in the store.

Taking a few tentative steps in the towering heels, she ensured her balance before uttering two decisive words: “Charge it.”

With half an hour still to spare, she refused to squander a moment. She seized the opportunity to borrow cosmetics from the store, applying her makeup with rapid precision.

Though she wasn’t typically skilled in this area, Dr. Harlow’s relentless insistence had pushed her to hone her makeup techniques, waiving her cosmetic surgery fees on the condition that she learn to enhance her natural beauty. Consequently, she had practiced diligently.

Even if her usual attire leaned towards the casual, she was well aware of how to present herself.

As she swiped the lipstick across her lips, the image of a “princess in an oil painting” sprang to life in the mirror.

The bodyguard froze, her heart racing. “Darknight? You wanted Ms. Tati to go to Darknight, didn’t you? She just went in.”

“I never gave that order! Damn it!” the voice on the other end exploded.

The bodyguard’s mind reeled.

She had received the call from the boss, had been handed the invitation left at the hotel’s front desk. The number and voice were unmistakably correct.

What had gone awry?

If Ms. Tati was inside…

Panic coursed through her veins, her complexion turning ashen. “This is bad!” she gasped.

As Tatiana crossed the threshold, the dazzling lights momentarily blinded her, and she felt every gaze in the room turn towards her, scrutinizing her with an intensity that felt anything but welcoming.

A frown creased her brow as she surveyed the crowd, searching for Yasper, but he was nowhere to be found.

Ignoring the piercing stares, she continued her search, the atmosphere thick with hushed whispers that eluded her comprehension.

She was a breathtaking vision, her strapless gown with its flowing train accentuating her flawless figure. Her skin, as pale as freshly fallen snow, radiated an ethereal glow that overshadowed even the most exquisite couture.

Her makeup was sophisticated, her red lips and bright smile striking against her porcelain complexion. Her eyes sparkled with an alluring depth, embodying a beauty that transcended mere aesthetics. She appeared less like an individual and more like a masterpiece crafted by the finest artist.

She had seemingly materialized out of thin air. The guests couldn’t help but speculate about her origins. After all, no one who possessed an invitation was without significance, yet none could recall having seen her before.

Tatiana searched diligently, but the absence of Yasper began to gnaw at her, a suspicion taking root that perhaps he wasn’t present at all.