Hired a Gigolo Got a Billionaire (Zoey and Christian) novel Chapter 87

Chapter 87

The reflection in the mirror stared back at me with a mix of fascination and strangeness. The deep burgundy dress Christian and I had chosen in Serene Port fit perfectly, the delicate fabric accentuating curves I hadn’t even realized I had.

“You look stunning,” Annabelle said, appearing behind me in the reflection. She wore a navy-blue dress with a daring neckline that would certainly hold Marcus’s attention all evening.

“Thank you. You look gorgeous too.” I nervously adjusted one of the ruby earrings Christian had insisted I wear, heirlooms from the family collection. “Do you think I’m overdoing it? The earrings seem…’

“They seem exactly what they are: family jewels belonging to Christian Kensington’s wife.” Annie stepped closer, adjusting a strand of my hair. “Stop diminishing yourself. You belong here just as much as any of them.”

I sighed, wishing I had my sister’s confidence.

“This place intimidates me. This event, all these important people…”

“It’s just a dinner. You’ve survived worse.” Annie shrugged. “Remember when you had to give that presentation in college after staying up all night with food poisoning?”

I laughed, recalling that disastrous episode.

“How could I forget? I thought I was going to faint in the middle of the auditorium.’

“And you still killed it.” Annie squeezed my shoulder. “It’ll be the same tonight. Smile, pretend to care when some boring old man starts talking about the ’78 vintage, and stick close to Christian. Simple as that.”

A light knock on the door interrupted our conversation. Carmen, the housekeeper, appeared with her politely neutral expression.

“Mrs. Kensington, Mr. Christian asked me to let you know the first guests have arrived.”

“Thank you, Carmen. We’re on our way down.”

Once the housekeeper left, Annie shot me an amused look.

“Mrs. Kensington.” She shook her head. “I’ll never get used to that.”

“Neither will I,” I muttered, giving the mirror one last glance.

On the way to the main hall, an unexpected wave of nausea hit me as we passed the corridor where staff were carrying trays of appetizers. The strong scent of cheese and truffles which were normally tempting, made my stomach churn.

“You okay?” Annie asked, noticing my hesitation.

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