Entanglement

Blair

When Carter originally insisted on picking everything that I wear when I’m with him I had thought it was ridiculous. Yet as I smooth out the satin fabric of my dress for tonight a smile tugs at my lips because he has well and truly outdone himself tonight.

As I stand before the mirror, I take a moment to truly absorb my reflection. The soft glow of the room surrounds me, highlighting the elegant teal ball gown that envelops me like a second skin. I admire the intricate details of the fabric—the way the light catches the delicate beading on the bodice, and how the layers of the skirt create a sense of movement even while I stand still.

I notice the way the gown accentuates my figure, the waist cinched just enough to create an hourglass shape without feeling constricting. The neckline frames my collarbone beautifully, and I can’t help but feel a wave of confidence wash over me. I smooth down the fabric, feeling the coolness of it against my fingertips, and as I do, I catch a glimpse of my expression—a mix of excitement and anticipation.

My hair cascades in soft waves, and I glance at the subtle curls that cascade over my shoulder. I’ve added a few delicate hairpins that twinkle like tiny stars, adding to the whimsy of the look. My makeup is simple yet striking, with just the right amount of shimmer to bring out my features without overwhelming them.

As I take a step back, I can feel my heart flutter with a mix of nerves and joy. This moment feels special, a blend of elegance and self-assurance that makes me want to step out and embrace the evening ahead. I give myself one last approving nod, a silent promise to enjoy every moment, and with that, I turn away from the mirror, I head out of my room to find Carter.

As I step out into the hallway, the anticipation in the air is almost palpable. The soft sound of my heels clicking against the polished floor echoes in the hallway, each step a reminder of the special evening ahead. I can feel a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling inside me as I approach the living room.

We’ve all been back from the cabin for a couple of weeks now and I know that without a doubt I definitely made the right decision to stay. Now, with the memory of that trip still fresh in my mind, I feel a surge of gratitude for Carter, Ashton, Lennox and Henley and the bond we’ve created.

As I approach the living room, Carter stands by the fireplace, his back turned to me. He looks unbelievable in his tailored black suit, and I can’t help but admire him. Just as I’m about to call out to him, he turns around, and his expression shifts from surprise to pure admiration.

“Wow,” he breathes, his eyes widening as he takes me in. “You look... well breathtaking.”

“Breathtaking?” I repeat. His compliment warms me from the inside, and I can’t suppress the smile that spreads across my face. “Thanks to you,” I reply playfully, gesturing to the dress. “I never would have picked this out for myself.”

He steps closer, his gaze unwavering, and I can feel the weight of his appreciation. “You’ve made it come to life. It’s perfect on you,” he says, his voice filled with sincerity.

I feel a blush creeping onto my cheeks, suddenly shy under his intense gaze. “I’m really excited about tonight.” I admit, a little bubble of excitement fuelling me.

This is first time we’re actually going out, not a restaurant or a bar, like actually going to an event and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel a little giddy about it.

Every there a lavish Winter Ball that the who’s who of the city’s most elite attend. It’s something I only learnt about yesterday when Carter had a team of people turn up here to quite literally pamper me within an inch of my life. Apparently he attended every year and it so turns out that this time around I’m his date.

When he told me about it I could help but let my mind wander to Jamie and that picture of the two of them together. The one that disappeared thanks to Henley’s sneaky work. It had a tinge of doubt flare up within me, making me wonder if I’ll end up just like her.

Deleted from existence.

I forced myself to push them thoughts out, convincing myself that this is nothing like how it had been with her. Yet there’s parts of me that still feels like there’s a lot that still needs to be discussed around that whole situation.

The truth is I’ve been pushing that to one side trying to pretend it doesn’t exist so I could stay wrapped up in the little bubble that we’d all created together.

Carter grins, and I can see the spark of adventure in his eyes. “I promise you, tonight will be memorable.”

I don’t doubt that for one moment yet I’ve overcome with a little burst of sadness that he seems to pick up on straight away. Hand hand comes up to tilt my chin up so his eyes can pierce into mine. “Hey what’s wrong?”

Sighing I let my shoulders deflate a little, “I dunno I guess I just kind of wish we could all go together.” I explain and watch as his expression softens.

“Blair-” he begins but I cut him off before he can repeat the same sentence I’ve heard all day.

“You keep that part of your life private,” I say, “I know. But it still doesn’t change the fact I want Lennox, Henley and Ash to enjoy this with us.”

I get it I do, not everyone can understand or accept a relationship like we all share. But that’s make that realisation sting any less.

Carter’s expression shifts, a blend of understanding and concern etched across his features. “Henley and Lennox are having their time together tonight, and Ash will be there with us.”

“As our security” I unintentionally snap, “it’s degrading.”

Carter crosses his arms, his posture shifting, signalling that I’m treading a fine line right now. It’s not like I want to argue with him but I do need him to know that this whole only being publicly with him thing isn’t okay with me and never will be.

“I wish it were different, Blair. I really do. But the truth is,I have a public image to uphold, investors that will pull out the moment they learn the truth about the way I live my life,” he explains and I’m pretty sure he thinks that’s a good enough reason but it doesn’t cut it with me.

“So investors are more important than the men you love?” I challenge.

Carter opens his mouth to respond, but the words seem to falter on his lips. I can see the internal struggle playing out in his eyes, the conflict between the life he meticulously crafted and the emotions that are tangling him in knots right now.

“Blair, you’re missing the bigger picture,” he finally says, his voice steady but laced with frustration. “This isn’t just about me or even us. There are repercussions to my decisions that ripple beyond our private lives. If I lose the backing of my investors, it jeopardizes everything—everything I’ve built, our future. You have to understand that.”

I shake my head, feeling my heart pound in my chest. “But when Ashton struggles to accept his sexuality it’s such a problem, yet you can hide him away to protect what? Your bank balance?.”

I see the moment my words cut deep as his frustration morphs into anger. His fists clenching at his sides.

“Don’t,” he snarls, his way of warning me that in his view the conversation is done but like hell it is.

I’m about to give him even more of my mind when Ashton’s footsteps echo down the hallway as he comes to join us, buttoning up his cuffs. His eyes finally land on us and he pauses, seeming to pick up on the tension radiating between me and Carter.

“Ready to go?” He asks sheepishly. Eyeing us both cautiously as he does.

Carter goes to reach out to take my hand, but I don’t give him chance as I storm off toward the elevator. “Yeah let’s get this over and done with” I grumble. Suddenly not so excited about this ball anymore.