Chapter 3 Grand Opening Boutique

CLARA'S POV.

I stood in the center of a large room filled with people in expensive clothes and calculating faces.

The scent of expensive perfume mingled with the fresh smell of roses from the large arrangements decorating the main table. The sound of clashing wine glasses and subtle whispers filled the air, but everything sounded like a distant hum in my ears.

The dark blue satin dress I'm wearing tonight fits my body perfectly, as if it was specially designed for me. But even the luxurious fabric is unable to make me feel comfortable.

I can feel the probing gazes from every corner of the room, even though I know most of them are trying to be polite. After all, tonight is Lucas's big night.

And my big night.

Lucas is standing next to me, his hand casually holding a glass of champagne. He looked perfect, as always-a neat black suit that framed his body perfectly, a faint smile that never really reached his eyes, and a cold aura that made anyone think twice before approaching him.

He tilted his body slightly towards me, his voice low yet loud enough for me to hear in the crowd.

"Just relax, Clara. You look like a deer caught in the headlights."

I glanced at him, trying to put on a fake smile.

"That's easy for you to say. You're used to all this."

She laughed softly, a sound that didn't really show joy.

"And you'll get used to it too, sooner or later."

I almost replied with sarcasm, but the sound of the microphone being gently awakened brought the entire room to silence. A middle-aged man with graying hair and a gray suit stood in the center of the small stage, a microphone in his hand. I recognized him-David Laurent, one of the Lucas family's biggest business partners.

"Good evening, everyone," he said in a carefully polished, friendly tone.

"Thank you for taking the time to attend this event. As you know, the Devereux family has always been one of the important pillars of our business community. And tonight, we are invited to celebrate a new chapter in the life of Lucas Devereux."

I held my breath involuntarily, and I could feel Lucas glancing at me. His cool hand suddenly touches my lower back, a small gesture that might look supportive to others, but I know it's more of a warning.

"Lucas, would you like to join us here?" David continued, waving at Lucas.

Lucas turned to me, giving a brief smile that didn't really touch his eyes.

"Showtime," he said in a calm tone, leading me forward with him.

I felt all eyes on us as we stepped onto the small stage. My high heels felt like an instrument of torture, and my heart was beating so fast I was sure everyone could hear it.

Lucas gracefully took the microphone from David, then turned to face the crowd.

"Thank you, David, and thank you to everyone for coming out tonight," he says, his voice steady and confident.

"Tonight is indeed special for me, not only as part of the Devereux family, but also as a man who has just started a new chapter in his life."

He glanced at me, his dark eyes seemingly trying to lock me in place.

"Allow me to introduce my wife, Clara Devereux."

Applause sounded throughout the room, though I knew it was mostly a formality. Lucas turned to me, handing me the microphone. Instantly, all my confidence evaporated. I wanted to hide behind his back, but that was definitely not an option.

I took the microphone with shaking hands, trying to remember all the things Lucas had taught me about public speaking.

"Thank you," I said, my voice shaking slightly before I managed to get it under control.

"It's a great honor to be part of the Devereux family. I look forward to supporting Lucas, his family, and everyone here to the best of my ability."

There was another round of applause, shorter this time, before I handed the microphone back to Lucas. He looked at me for a moment, his eyes seeming to want to make sure I wouldn't collapse in front of everyone.

"In addition to me announcing that Clara is now my wife, tonight, we are all gathered to celebrate the official opening of Clara Devereux's first boutique.

A boutique that not only offers an elegant fashion collection, but also carries the vision and spirit of its owner."

I felt my cheeks heat up at the mention of my name. All eyes were now on me and Lucas.

Lucas turned to me, giving a small nod before he released my hand and stepped forward. Everyone immediately fell silent as he took the microphone from the MC. His presence always gave off an aura that couldn't be ignored.

"Thank you for taking the time to attend this special event. Today is not just about a new boutique. It's about someone who had the courage and determination to start something new, someone I'm proud to call my wife, Clara Devereux."

I could feel my heart beating faster as he said my name that way, in a tone full of conviction.

Lucas continued, "This boutique is the result of Clara's hard work. But, like all great things in life, she didn't do it alone. I believe in her vision, in her talent, and that's why I decided to be part of this journey as a lead investor."

The room was filled with the sound of cameras beeping in succession, flashes blinding. I could see some reporters taking notes, while other guests whispered to each other.

Lucas turned to me, his eyes filled with something I couldn't explain.

"Clara, I know this journey hasn't been easy. But I also know that this is just the beginning of something big. And I'm so proud of you."

I wanted to say something, but my throat felt dry. Lucas handed me the microphone, motioning me forward. I hesitated for a moment, but then I remembered what he had said that night-that I had strength, and that I just needed to believe in myself.

With trembling hands, I took the microphone.

"Thank you," I said, my voice sounding more stable than I expected.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported this journey. Especially to Lucas, who not only believed in my idea, but also gave me the confidence to make it happen."

I took a deep breath, looking at the guests who were now staring at me attentively.

"This boutique is more than just a business to me. It is a symbol of new beginnings, of the courage to start over, and of the belief that no dream is too big to realize.

I hope this boutique can be a place where everyone feels confident in what they wear, because confidence is the key to everything."

Applause echoed throughout the room, and I felt a little lighter. As I handed the microphone back to the MC, Lucas approached, lowering his body slightly so that only I could hear his whisper.

"You did well, Clara," he said, and for a moment, I felt like he was being completely sincere.

I looked at him, and amidst all the camera flashes and lights, I felt that for the first time, I was where I was supposed to be. Here, next to Lucas, and in the middle of a dream that was slowly coming true.

After that, everything passed like a mist. Lucas talked more about business, about the family's future plans, and about how our marriage would be a symbol of new power.

I stood by his side, smiling and nodding at the right times, even though every word that came out of his mouth felt like an affirmation that I was just part of the grand plan.

I wasn't sure if it was a genuine compliment or just something he said to keep me calm. Yet I chose to answer with a faint smile, because in this world, I know falseness is the most commonly used language

***

"Clara," Ethan greeted, his voice filled with a mocking tone. "I almost didn't recognize you. Expensive dresses, glittering jewelry... You really know how to level up, huh?"

I clenched my jaw, trying to keep my face calm. "Ethan," I replied coldly, not wanting to show how shaken I was to see him again. "What are you doing here?"

He chuckled, raising his wine glass. "Oh, I was invited, of course. I've always been part of this circle, you know. But I didn't expect to see you here. And, apparently, you've found someone new. So fast, Clara. One month ago we were divorced, and now you're Mrs. Lucas Devereux."

I felt my blood boil, but before I could reply, Lucas stepped forward, standing slightly in front of me, as if to protect me. His gaze was cold, and his voice sounded like polished steel when he spoke.

"Ethan, right?" Lucas said, his tone polite but full of veiled threats. "Nice to meet you. I'm Lucas, Clara's husband. And I suggest you be careful with your choice of words."

Ethan laughed again, louder this time. "Take it easy, Lucas. I'm just kidding. Besides, I was just a little surprised at how quickly Clara moved on to another man after-"

"After what?" cut in Lucas, his tone turning sharp. He stepped closer to Ethan, leaving little space between them. I could feel the tension in the air. "After you failed to appreciate her? After you threw away a wonderful woman you were supposed to take care of? If that's what you want to talk about, then I agree, Ethan. But if you want to continue degrading her in front of me, I won't stand for it."

I was stunned. Lucas had never shown this much emotion before, let alone in public.

Ethan looked confused for a moment, then tried to smile again, although this time his smile wasn't as strong as before. "Lucas, you're too serious. I was just joking."

"Unfortunately, I don't see anything funny in what you're saying," Lucas snapped. "If you want to talk business, I'll make time for you. But if all you're doing is trying to annoy my wife, then I suggest you leave before I run out of patience."

Ethan looked like he wanted to retaliate, but he just swallowed and forced a smile before backing away slowly. "Alright, Lucas. See you later."

He turned and walked away, leaving us in silence. I still stood frozen, unsure of what to say. Lucas turned to me, his face calm again, like a storm that had just passed.

"You don't have to listen to such nonsense," he said softly, though his tone was still stern.

I stared at him, trying to find the words. "You don't need to defend me like that."

He shrugged, as if it was no big deal. "I'm your husband, Clara. That's my duty."

"You don't need to do that when our marriage is just a contract."