Avenge Marriage

CH-4 May I Have A Dance?

                                                                  Amber

"Man! This corset thing is killing me," Vera groaned and I glanced at her on the big gold frame Elizabethan mirror in my room. I don't know why she was lounging here, complaining relentlessly.

"We are going to give you dark eyes so we will keep the rest of the face comparatively minimal, okay?" Esme, my make-up artist murmured. She has a very pretty name, Esmeralda or something but she preferred Esme and she made it very clear at the very beginning. I wondered what's wrong with Esmeralda.

"I tried searching Ivan Navarro on i********: but there doesn't seem to be any," She muttered, pouting her pink lips. Vera was ready and so now she decided to give me a headache by talking nineteen to dozen.

"Not everybody is hyped up about social media," I murmured and she made a face in response.

"That would be boring," She grimaced. "Why should I stick with him? That's such a desperate thing to do. Did Mamá tell you why I have to stick to him?"

Ivan...Ivan was promised to Vera. For marriage,"

I shook my head and looked away from her piercing eyes. The sullen feeling inside me was still lingering and a part of me didn't want to go to this party at all. Up until this morning, I was looking forward to it. To finally see him in front of me in flesh and blood. But now I was dreading the exact thing. How was I going to face him with such a sunken feeling inside me? I better put up a very good show because starting from today, it will just get tougher each day. But for the sake of my family, who has given me, a mere nobody so much to be grateful for, I must keep my feelings to myself. And try to forget. After all, this was such an irrational feeling. It made no logical sense to love someone who most probably didn't even know I existed. And I was eight at that time. What do I know about love anyway?

"Something fishy is going on, Amber," Vera grimaced, narrowing her eyes at me. "I bet. I can feel it,"

"Can you please calm down and try to enjoy tonight?" I said. exasperated by her ranting. "Today is a big day for you. Why don't you save your energy a bit?"

"Yeah...you are right," She sighed. "It is going to be a long night,"

"Exactly," I nodded my head. "So why don't you calm down and relax? You will ruin your entire look if you keep on being restless,"

"Right," She nodded her head vigorously. "Though I don't want to go to this shitty thing but now that I am going...I have to be the most beautiful one there. Don't you think?"

"Exactly," I agreed, anything to get her off my back.

"Alright, I will meet you downstairs when you are down, okay?" She said and I nodded my head. Vera walked out, heels clicking loudly on the floor and I sighed. I was already exhausted. And the show hasn't even started yet.

"Oh my! Do you girls look beautiful!" Mamá exclaimed and we smiled at her. She was a vision in herself in her red gown, red lips, and blonde hair tied into a bun at the nape of her neck. She was where Vera got her good looks from.

"You look beautiful," Vincent nudged me and I smiled up at him. He was closer to me than Vera and vice versa. I adored him. He was every bit the elder brother I could ask for.

"You excited to meet Cecilia?" I asked and he actually blushed at the mention of her name. Vincent was dating Cecilia Ortega, the youngest of the Ortega family for a very long time now. She has two elder brothers as well but I don't remember their name and have neither met them before. Cecilia, I have met. Once, during last to last Christmas, I guess. I liked her. She was nice. Vera didn't because in some ways they were quite similar. It was funny to think. Vera loved herself but she didn't like someone who was just like her. The irony was not lost on me.

"I saw her yesterday," Vincent muttered, waving her hand around and trying to sound nonchalant. I can bet he was excited to see her. I smiled at him and he rolled his eyes at me.

The ball was held at the ballroom of one Navarro's estates and as we neared the venue, I was surprised to see the lines after lines of media vans parked in a neat line.

Wow...this event must be very important.

"Amber, look here," Vera startled me and I turned my face to her phone as she took a swift selfie. I was sure she has already done a hundred updates on her i********: which had more than ten thousand followers. And we haven't even reached yet.

"Ah...I like your dress better," She grumbled and I rolled my eyes.

"You love pink," I pointed and she nodded with a smile.

Vera wasn't annoying. She was yet to grow up being the youngest. So over time, we learned to put up with her. She was a bit on the narcissistic side sometimes but she meant well.

The big golden gates opened as our cars pulled in and I was mesmerized to see the big dancing fountain in the center. Reflecting beautiful golden, opal lights, it danced to the rhythm of beautiful orchestra music. I think it was called Miss Sophisticate by John Sbarra. It was beautiful and for some reason reminded me of the Pride and Prejudice movie.

"What an ancient music," Vera muttered under her breath and I rolled my eyes at her. 

"Vera can you not complain all the time and just try to enjoy?" I admonished and she rolled her eyes at me.

"You know this is not my thing," She complained. "I like to party and dance and loud music. What is all this crap here? Ball?"

"Balls are not ancient first of all," I said. "And secondly, you can't forget that you are a princess by status...this is your duty. It's for a good cause so please...just try to be a little humble at least for tonight,"

"Fine...Jesus, you sound like Mamá," She grimaced, glaring out of the window.

I sighed. This girl was impossible. And I can't even imagine how she will react when she finds out that she was supposed to be getting married very soon. With none other than Ivan Navarro. I ignored the pang of disappointment that I felt as we climbed out of the car. I could hear orchestra music playing somewhere.

"Shall we?" Mamá smiled and gave Vera a pointed look. Vera rolled her eyes at her and stomped ahead followed by Vincent.

"Er...I think I need to go to the powder room," I muttered. "Something's wrong with my dress,"

"Ah...okay. We will go ahead then. Don't be late, okay?" Mamá said and I gave her a nod.

Now where the hell was the powder room here? Damn this dress, it was so heavy. I glanced around and found a guy heading towards the main gate, talking on a wireless phone I presumed.

"Er...excuse me?" I walked over to him and he halted and gave me a bow. Jesus, do they really have to be so formal?

"Sir...can you tell me which way is the powder room?" I demanded and he nodded and gave me a polite smile.

"Please...follow me," He said. I smiled at him and dutifully followed him towards the main entrance.

The dress was not the problem, it was the bustier inside, and somehow with a lot of struggle, I finally managed to get it right.

"Finally," I murmured and stared at myself in the full-length mirror. I looked beautiful. Esme and Aldea made sure I do. My face was flushed and I knew it was from the anticipation of seeing him. But I knew I need to keep myself in control. I knew where the boundaries lie and I have to stick to it. Plus, I had a task to accomplish. I promise Mamá that I would try to make Vera stick to Ivan for the rest of the night. I wasn't sure how I was gonna do that but I'll try nevertheless.

"Come on, Amber. You can do it!" I hyped myself up and then taking a deep breath headed out.

Holy crap! Where do I go now? I can't remember the way. I looked around but there was no one to be seen. I squinted at the tree-lined path and hoped that it was the right direction as I started on it. This place was gigantic. How rich were the Navarro's again? Maybe that could be a factor that would temp Vera into the marriage? Although I don't think she cares about money that much.

Halfway through, I could hear the faint music that I heard earlier and it assured me that I was on the right path. But where do I go now? I looked around and jumped in fear as cold hands touched my bareback.

"Ah...excuse me?" A deep masculine voice said and I turned hastily to see who it was. But it was a very stupid thing to do when you are wearing five inches long heels. My feet slipped on the gravel and I toppled backward almost about the hit the floor.

Crap!" The voice cried out and the next moment I felt a firm hand at the small of my back, effectively steadying me. One strong hand held my arm and out of shock, I clung to the person's strong muscular biceps as tightly as I could. The last thing I wanted was to break my spine. I have had that experience before and it was not pretty.

I stared up at the person who was holding me and my eyes widened in shock as I gazed into concerning dark brown eyes, brows furrowed as he stared down at me. My lips parted in recognition as I struggled to breathe and for a moment we kept staring at each other. There was a flitting recognization in his eyes or maybe I imagined it?

But I recognized him too well because for years I have waited for this moment. To see him in front of me. And here he was, in all his presence, his arms around me, eyes gauging me curiously.

I could barely breathe, my heart pounding hard against my chest. There was a weird feeling in my stomach....something so alien that it surprised even me. This was stronger than I thought it was.

"Are...are you alright?" He asked softly, a little flustered as he pulled me up. I nodded vigorously.

"Yeah...sorry. I just...I got a bit startled," I murmured, and in a vain attempt to calm my nerves, I started to smooth my already perfect hairs.

He opened his mouth to say something but was distracted as someone called out my name. We both turned towards the direction of the voice and found Vin, stalking towards us.

"Ah! There you are," He said, staring questioningly at me like I was some big i***t. I curbed my urged to roll my eyes because I knew he must have been worried. Vin was very protective of me and Vera.

"I have been looking for you," He admonished.

"I lost my way," I answered and I could feel my face flaming up. This was embarrassing.

"Stupid," Vincent grumbled, and then his eyes caught the person standing beside me.

"Oh...Ivan," He said. "Have you two met? This is my younger sister...Amber. Amber, Ivan Navarro,"

I knew this was where I must face him head-on although I didn't want to. The weird feeling inside me was very hard to control. I glanced at Vin and he raised his brow at me.

Damn it! Reluctantly, I turned to face him and immediately regretted it as I was greeted by a blinding smile.

"Hi..." He murmured, extending his hand.

"Hi," I managed a smile and shook his extended hand. It was huge compared to mine and cold which I was grateful for because I was burning up from within.

"Mamá is waiting for you," Vincent said, distracting me and I nodded slowly.

"Thank you," I murmured, turning back to him and Ivan nodded his head. looking a little blank.

Does he recognize me?

"We will see you inside," Vincent smiled at him and then prompted me to follow him as we made our way inside. I curbed the urge to turn and have a look at him again, the feeling of his hands around me still lingering on my skin. 

"I can't believe you lost your way," He chuckled and I scowled at him.

"This is a huge place," I protested and he nodded his head, still smiling like a fool.

"¡Ciérralo!" I grumbled, hitting him and his stupid grin turned into full-blown laughter.

"Vincent, we meet again," A guy was standing at the entrance of the great hall and I sensed a wary aura radiating from Vin as he smiled at him. I eyes him curiously and wondered who he was.

"Dario," Vin nodded and pointed to me. "This is my little sister, Amber. Amber...Ivan's younger brother, Dario Navarro,"

I scrutinized him and found no resemblance of Ivan to him. He was tall and striking which was expected, with long neck-length dark hairs and very piercing dark hazel eyes. He was also a little heftier than Ivan.

"Ah..." He smiled at me, eyes studying me from head to toe and there was something about them that didn't fit well with me.

"Pleasure to meet you," I muttered, nevertheless, and to my astonishment, he took my hand and placed a kiss on my palm.

"So am I...very pleased," He smiled widely, I pulled my hand away and gave him a wry smile.

"We should get going," Vin said, placing his hand around me and Dario nodded his head, eyes still stuck on me. "See you around,"

"I am sure you will," He answered.

"Be a little wary of him," Vin warned me as we descended the huge flight of stairs that leads to the main hall.

"Why?" I inquired and he shrugged.

"He has got a bit of a reputation in the circle," He said. "Alright...you ready to meet some new people?"

"As whom?" I muttered and I didn't realize that it came out loud. Vincent shot me a disappointed look and I pursed my lips.

"As my younger sister and a part of Vazquez family as you always have been," He answered, his tone bitter and I flushed.

Shit! He was hurt.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to sound like that," I answered and he shrugged again. "Wow, this is spectacular," I exclaimed as I took in the decor.

The room was huge, decorated in gold and opals and silvers. There was a checkered floor on the center and to its north was the elaborate orchestra. To the south was the buffet and the bar and on either side were sitting arrangements with elaborately decorated tables surrounded by six chairs each. They had gone all out, no doubt about that. I stared wryly at the guests mingling around on the dance floor with pristine crystal glasses in their hands. They all looked and also did belonged to the group of rich and classy.

"That's Navarro's for you," Vincent said. "Come on. Mamá must be freaking out,"

I followed Vincent, keeping an eye on the floor so as not to topple again, and headed to where the Vazquez's were, mingling with a group of people. I immediately recognized Cecilia as she reached to hug Vin before turning to face me.

"If it isn't the melody queen," She smiled brightly at me, hugging me as well and I smiled back at her. Cecilia was tall and slender with black eyes and shoulder-length black hair and porcelain white skin. There was an aura of self-assurance in her, just like Vera and unlike her, I liked Cecilia very much.

"It's nice to meet you again," I answered when she released me and she nodded her head.

"You looking stunning, darling," She said. "That's a lovely dress. Aldea?"

"Yep," I nodded and we both laughed. Everybody knows her and I made a mental note to let her know that. For the next hour, Vera and I were thrown around introducing and getting introduced to a hundred people out there and I was very sure I won't remember a single name the moment I step out of here.

"Oh my God," Vera cried out, as she pulled me away to get a drink. "My mouth hurts, Amber,"

"Mine too," I laughed at her horrified expression. "I can't remember a single name,"

"Exactly," She grimaced, rolling her eyes. "But man...the men here...they are so freaking hot!"

"Aren't we?" We both jumped and turned to see a guy in a burgundy tuxedo with black lapels smiling at us. He was tall and lean, which somehow seemed to be the general theme for the men gathered here. At least the younger ones. With grey eyes and dark long black hair and a razor-sharp jawline, he was in my opinion the second most handsome guy that I have encountered so far. First was...it has to be him. I was biased that way.

"Hi, I am..." He began but was interrupted by a very familiar voice as Ivan placed his arm around his shoulders and smiled at us.

"Enrique Ortega," He said and Enrique bowed, smiling down brightly at us. Ah...so he was Cecilia's brother. That's why he seemed so familiar.

"Oh...you are Cecilia's brother," Vera remarked and he nodded his head. I glanced at Ivan and he was eyeing Vera with utmost interest. I ignored the pang of disappointment again and wondered if he knows that he was supposed to marry Vera. I had a feeling he does but I hoped he doesn't say that out to her. We don't want a scene here.

"That will be me and you lovely ladies are?" Enrique asked and Ivan answered on our behalf.

"The Vazquez sisters," He answered with a smile, showing one dimple on his left cheek. I looked away quickly. "This is Vera and this Amber,"

"Ah...the most anticipated guests of the evening," Enrique grinned and Ivan shot him a look.

"What?" Vera muttered, raising her brow.

"Ignore him...can I get you girls a drink?" Ivan asked and Vera nodded her head.

"Yes, please," She almost groaned and Ivan laughed, looking amused.

"Please follow me..." He said and Vera nodded.

"Amber?" Vera called when I didn't follow her.

"I am good," I muttered because I remembered the promise I made to Mamá. "You go ahead,"

"Oh...but," She said but I shooed her away and watched silently as she walked away, her arms around Ivan. The emotion that I felt was not at all appealing and I tried my very best to ignore it.

Ivan was Vera's as it was supposed to be. As was right. So no matter how bad it hurts, I will try to be happy for her because somehow deep down I knew that he will keep her happy. And she was my sister so that was what meant the most to me. When I turned, Enrique was watching me intently and I felt my face flaming up under his grey scrutiny. It was awkward and I wondered how to make my escape from here. 

"Care for a drink?" He asked and I frowned at him. Didn't he hear me earlier? 

"Uh..." I wondered what to say. I didn't want to sound rude. 

"I know what you did there," He smiled at me and gave me his arm. I glanced at it and then at his face and then took it reluctantly. Like I had any other option. 

"What do you mean?" I asked as we strolled towards the bar. He shot me a knowing look. 

"Everybody knows about Ivan and Vera," He answered. "I know you were trying to make them get comfortable with each other. Great work, I must say," 

"Oh...er," I trailed off because I had no idea what to say. I really wanted to make my escape but for some reason Enrique didn't seem to be in the mood to let go off me. I can't understand why he was lounging around me when there were so many other women out there. He barely even knows me. 

"What would you like to drink?" He asked and despite his scapegrace looks, there was an unnamed softness to the way he speaks. Almost bashful.

"Whatever you are drinking," I said and he laughed, shaking his head.

"I am drinking plain water. Would you like?" He demanded playfully and I frowned at him.

Plain water?

"Wh...why plain water?" I asked and he smiled at me. It felt like he has known me for ages. I had no idea why he was so comfortable in my presence.

"I don't like to drink alcohol, My friends tease me for that. But it is what is, isn't it?" He said and I cannot help but smile.

"Plain water for me too," I answered and he gave me a big grin.

"This is so funny, people will think we are crazy," He remarked, finishing up his glass in one go.

"Aren't we all?" I muttered as I watched Ivan and Vera laugh with each other and some other group of guys I don't know. Good, at least I don't have to force her to be with him. Maybe this will turn out better than Mamá thinks.

"Hmm...I think we are," He agreed. "I have heard about you from Cecilia. She likes you a lot for some reason,"

"Really? I have met her just once before," I remarked and he shrugged, looking a little wry.

"My sister is like that. She kept going on about music. Do you play music by any chance?" He asked and I nodded my head.

"I graduated in music from the Royal Academy of Music in London," I replied and his eyes widened in surprise. I don't know why but for some reason it was a very premeditated reaction that I receive when people find out that I studied music. Like how do these amazing musicians exist if you don't study music? Everything needs to be studied to give it a polish.

"Wow. That's amazing. You must be excellent. What do you play, piano?" He asked, looking extremely interested and I shook my head.

"The Viola," I answered and he nodded, looking impressed.

"I hope I would get to hear you play one day," He said and I gave him a wry smile in response.

The night started to drag and I couldn't wait to get home. First, the dress and the heels were killing me, and second I wanted to go home and tend my bleeding heart in the comfort of my room. I thought seeing Ivan with Vera wouldn't be that difficult. I thought when I see him in front of me, all grown up, I would realize that my feelings indeed were as irrational as I thought they were and that over the night as I meet new people, new men I would realize it was nothing but infatuation.

But who was I kidding? I have spent my fair share of time amongst wealthy, good-looking men over the years, and nobody...not even my only long-term boyfriend Olivier Evans came close to what I felt for him. He was someone I felt as familiar and close as I was to myself. It was idiotic because, in reality, I don't know a single thing about him except for his name and how he looks and after what happened earlier in the evening between him and me, I don't think I can call that feeling comfortable. I could barely even breathe.

The dinner was over followed by the traditional ball dance and the fundraiser for the charity. I danced one with Vin and one with Enrique and one to my utter annoyance Ivan's younger brother, Dario. Vin was right, there was something not right about him. I decided to call it a night because if I dance one more time, my feet will start bleeding. It was already hurting like s**t.

Sighing, I stood by the bar, sipping champagne, and watched the couples dance. I couldn't help but smile as I watched Mamá and Papá dance. They made a magnificent couple for sure. Vera was dancing with Dario and she doesn't seem to have a problem with him. Maybe it was just me then?

"May, I have a dance?" A frighteningly familiar voice said and all my nerve endings jerked awake at the mere sound of his voice. I wanted to run away as far as I could but I knew that wasn't possible. I was stuck here and frozen to the ground. Reluctantly, I turned to face him and there he stood, smiling his blinding smile at me.

"You didn't dance with me," He said and pointed at his outstretched hand. "May I?"

I stared at him blankly for a moment and then reluctantly placed my hand in his. They were big and his hold was firm as he ushered me to the floor.

God save me! 

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A/N: Hello my dear readers! Here's the next update. I hope you are enjoying the story so far. Thank you so much for all your support and love :)