DUBAI
The art auction was held in a massive, glass-walled hall overlooking Dubai's skyline.
The room sparkled with wealth—everywhere Claire turned, there were diamonds, gold watches, and gowns that probably cost more than her yearly allowance from Lucas.
People mingled effortlessly, their voices blending with the soft hum of live music in the background.
Claire walked in hand-in-hand with Lucas. On his other side was Elena, matching Claire's black dress but with an elegance demanded attention- at least Claire thought.
Claire had been somewhat uncomfortable standing too close to Lucas, worried about how it might come across, but Elena had no such hesitation. She was all confidence, her arm occasionally brushing Lucas's.
They looked striking together, but Claire felt like the third wheel.
The Deira family representatives were seated near the front of the room, and Lucas led the three of them straight there.
