A month later, Hailey had changed inside and out.
She bought skincare products, changed her wardrobe, and committed to a new diet. Blake used to call her fat during their marriage, and though she'd never admit it out loud, those words still echoed in her head. Maybe he preferred Kaira because she looked perfect—always toned, not a single ounce of unnecessary fat.
Within a month, Hailey had already moved into Killian's mansion and offered a guest room—not like she was expecting to sleep in his private room anyway.
On the day Hailey went to deposit the rest of the money at the hospital, Killian followed her so he could get to know her son. It was a movement she didn't expect from him. But then she instantly reminded herself that it was a marriage contract, and he probably wanted to be close to Aiden in case the media came sniffing.
He didn't introduce himself as Aiden's stepfather, but Hailey knew she had to tell Aiden what was happening as soon as possible. Unfortunately, he couldn't be discharged yet.
They hadn't announced their marriage to the public yet. However, it would be done on the seventieth anniversary gala of the Valtieri jewels. Killian came up with the idea to take fake wedding photos, go on dates and pretended to be happy.
So in short, within one month, Hailey had been busy adjusting to her new married life. She and Killian barely said a word to each other except casual good morning or goodnight.
The day of the gala finally arrived.
Hailey stood before her mirror in a floor-length red dress that shimmered under the lights. The slit up the side revealed her long legs, and the gown hugged her body in all the right places. Her makeup was subtle, highlighting her natural features.
Her hair was swept to one side, cascading down in soft curls. She didn't look like the woman Blake used to mock. She didn't even look like the woman who cried herself to sleep just weeks ago.
For the first time in a long while, she felt… proud.
"Are you ready?" Killian's voice came from the doorway.
She turned. He looked devastating in a tailored black suit, hair tousled just enough to seem effortless. A few strands fell over his forehead.
Her heart skipped a beat—but she quickly reminded herself not to read into it.
"I'm ready." Hailey nodded.
He'd told her earlier that the Lancasters and the Monroes had been invited. She would be seeing them. She wasn't sure if her stomach was twisting from nerves or anticipation.
Unexpectedly, Killian placed his hand gently over hers. She didn't pull away.
"You've got this," he added.
Hailey held his gaze for a moment, her heart thudding. Butterflies stirred in her stomach, but she forced herself to remember—this was a contract. Nothing more.
8:00pm
They arrived at the venue.
The area was bustling with reporters who took pictures of the elite guests and barked a few questions before they disappeared into the hall.
Hailey glanced at the reporters, her heart ramming even harder against her chest. But then she remembered Killian's words.
She'd already come far. And she wasn't going to go back because of cold feet.
When it was their time, Killian was the first to step down.
As soon as his feet stepped out of the car, the camera flashes became brighter, and the shutters were louder than earthquakes. Everyone wanted a picture of his face but the security guards made them behave enough not to bounce on him.
They were waiting for him to step on the red carpet, but he moved to the other side of the car and opened it.
The air went still.
Killian Valtieri brought a plus one? The same question lingered in their minds as they readied their cameras to capture the face of the woman.
As soon as Hailey's face was seen, the camera shutters became even louder than before.
Hailey was tempted to squint her eyes due to how bright it was but she wanted to appear professional.
She linked her arm with Killian's as they stepped on the red carpet.
"Mr. Valtieri, is this Blake Lancaster's ex-wife? Are you two in a relationship?"
"Hailey, why did your marriage to Blake end?"
"Was there infidelity involved on both sides?"
Hailey clutched Killian's arm tighter, feeling dizzy with the camera flashes and the questions.
"Your questions will be answered later at the event," Killian responded.
The reporters weren't satisfied with his reply and they tried to stop them for more answers but a glare from Killian grounded them to their feet.
As they stepped inside, Hailey couldn't help but be amazed at how grand the event was. The hall was huge with several influential people casually sipping their red wine and interacting with other people.
"My family should be upstairs," Killian said. Together, Killian led them to his family who were busy greeting a bunch of people.
Hailey instantly recognized them.
Blake's father stood near the balcony, laughing with a group of men in expensive tuxedos. Kaira Monroe was standing next to Blake, her manicured hand resting possessively on his arm.
Hailey's heart slammed against her chest.
Blake turned.
His smile disappeared the second his eyes landed on her.
"What the hell do you think you're doing here?" he spat. "This isn't a place for filth to parade around like royalty."
His words hit like a slap. The room grew silent, all eyes turning.
Before she could respond, Killian stepped forward.
His voice was ice.
"I'd advise you," he said, tone dangerous, "To watch how you speak to my wife."
The air froze.