Chapter 8 - THE GALA OF THE CENTURY
By the seventh month of Mara’s pregnancy, Gabriel decided it was time to officially introduce his future wife and heir to high society.
He organized the Annual Valentine Charity Gala at the Grand Plaza Hotel—the most exclusive event of the social season, attended by governors, foreign diplomats, business tycoons, and elite family leaders.
The grand ballroom was magnificent, filled with crystal chandeliers, towering floral arrangements of white orchids, and a live symphony orchestra.
Whispers filled the room as the heavy oak doors opened.
"Announcing Don Gabriel Valentine," the announcer boomed, "and Miss Mara Whitfield!"
The crowd went completely silent.
Gabriel stepped into the ballroom looking impossibly handsome in a bespoke black tuxedo.
Beside him walked Mara.
She looked like absolute royalty. She wore a floor-length dark sapphire gown decorated with subtle silver embroidery that hugged her maternal curves beautifully. The yellow diamond ring sparkled on her hand, complimented by a matching sapphire and diamond tiara resting in her softly styled hair.
She held Gabriel’s arm, walking with complete elegance, grace, and confidence. There was no trace of the maid who had once cleaned floors.
Among the crowd stood Senator Thorne and various elites who had previously ignored or mocked her. Now, they stood bowing their heads, eager to gain a smile or a nod from the future Lady Valentine.
"Look at them," whispered an elder socialite to her friend. "She carries the Valentine heir. He looks at her as if she hung the moon in the sky."
Indeed, Gabriel barely paid attention to the wealthy tycoons trying to shake his hand. His eyes were constantly on Mara, his arm wrapped protectively around her waist, ensuring she was comfortable, offering her warm water, and shielding her from any overwhelming crowds.
Later in the evening, as they stood on the private balcony overlooking the city skyline, Mara leaned back against Gabriel’s chest.
"A year ago," Mara murmured softly, looking at the city lights, "I was standing in a cold pantry, crying because I didn't have enough money to pay my rent."
Gabriel wrapped his arms gently around her bump, resting his chin on her shoulder. "And now?"
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"Now," Mara smiled, placing her hands over his, "I am standing beside the man I love, carrying our child, surrounded by warmth."
"You built this warmth, Mara," Gabriel whispered softly into her ear. "My world was cold and dead before you walked into it. You saved me long before I saved you."
