loving you was a mistake

The massive Riverson mansion shimmered under the soft gold of a thousand hanging crystal lights. From the marbled driveway to the expansive garden laced with rare orchids and imported cherry blossoms, everything screamed opulence. Valets in tailored navy uniforms opened the doors to sleek Rolls Royces and Bentleys, ushering in guests wearing nothing less than custom couture.

Tonight wasn't just a celebration. It was a Riverson celebration. And this time, all eyes were on Aurora. As she stepped out of the car in a floor-length Dior gown white silk with sheer sides and a diamond-studded neckline Mark, in a velvet Tom Ford tux, held her hand with pride. Camera flashes lit up as the press outside the gates scrambled to get shots. Aurora walked with elegance, grace, and the confidence of a woman who had finally secured one of the biggest fashion deals of the decade.

The moment they stepped into the grand ballroom, a standing ovation erupted.

"Congratulations, Aurora!" She did it Dior, baby!"

Aurora blushed under the soft spotlight as she was led to a rose-petaled path toward the main stage. Giant screens around the room displayed a teaser of her Dior campaign, and the scent of the new Essence of Eternity perfume drifted in the air, intentionally sprayed in the AC vents.

Kim Riverson stood tall near the grand staircase in a flowing emerald gown, radiating her signature elegance. "May I have your attention, please?" she called, her voice calm but commanding. The murmurs faded.

Kim's gaze swept across the room. "Tonight, we gather to honor my daughter Aurora Riverson Wilson. While she's worked with iconic brands before, Dior was her dream. And today, that dream has come true."

Cheers. Applause. Champagne flutes raised high.

"But before we continue…" Kim's voice softened slightly. "Due to Mother's declining health, I must announce that the annual Riverson Charity Ball has been cancelled this year. I know many of you were looking forward to it, but our family's focus must be on her recovery. Thank you for understanding."

A moment of respectful silence followed, before the music resumed and waiters glided through with trays of golden cocktails and silver-plated hors d'oeuvres. Aurora mingled with a sea of relatives, business moguls, and fashion elites. Then she saw him Liam. Her cousin.

Still tall, charming, and dressed in an Armani tux that did little to hide the glint of ambition in his eyes. "Well, if it isn't Dior's darling," he said, sipping a 1945 Château Mouton Rothschild. "Congratulations, Aurora."

"Thank you, Liam. I didn't expect to see you here. Last I heard, you were in Dubai?"

"Business," he smiled. "But I had to come back when I heard the family's golden girl was making headlines."Don't be silly," Aurora laughed lightly, though something about his smile made her stomach twist. "We're all golden in this family." Hmm," Liam hummed. "For now."

Before Aurora could respond, Ivy walked in petite, poised, and dazzling in a silver Givenchy gown. Her diamond necklace sparkled like the chandeliers above, and her husband, Zachary, followed closely behind, exuding quiet authority in a sharp navy suit.

"Aurora!" Ivy greeted with a warm hug. "I've been dying to meet you. We were away on our honeymoon when you joined the family fully."

Aurora smiled. "It's so nice to finally meet you both. Congratulations on your wedding!"

"Thanks," Ivy beamed. "And congrats on the Dior deal. I mean, wow. You're basically a fashion legend now." Zachary nodded. "Yeah, the commercial was… strong. Let's just hope you can handle everything that comes with being the face of Dior."

Aurora tilted her head, sensing the undertone. "Don't worry. I can."

Across the room, Liam and Zachary slipped away, heading into the Riverson library, a room rarely used except for private conversations.

"She's getting too powerful," Liam muttered, pouring himself another drink. "She's in Dior now. If she continues at this pace, she'll take every brand under the sun," Zachary added bitterly. "That's supposed to be Ivy's spot next. She's worked hard enough."

"And me? The board sees her as their golden ticket now. The last meeting was all about Aurora this, Aurora that…" Uncle William will leave everything in her hands trust me.

Liam smirked. "I say we shake the table."

Zachary narrowed his eyes. "What do you have in mind? "Let's say… a little scandal erupts at the Wilson mansion tomorrow evening. Something strong enough to make Dior question their decision."

"You better be sure. If this goes wrong…"It won't," Liam interrupted. "Let's ruin her before she becomes unstoppable." Back in the ballroom, Aurora and Mark danced under the lights, oblivious to the plot slowly forming in the shadows of their own family. Her laughter echoed softly against his chest. "You know what this means, right?"

"What?" he whispered.

"I've made it, Mark. I'm really doing it." He smiled, kissing her forehead. "You were always meant to."