An announcement came two days later.
The Geneva Group had approved the expansion model.
Redcliff Pharma would host a formal celebration, hosting investors and the board of directors in the form of a grand ball.
Akhile stood in front of her wardrobe again, the screens projecting silk and steel-toned gowns around her reflection.
"A ball? What kind of world is this?" she muttered.
"A world with a grand society," Tobias replied from the doorway. "Redcliff events always are a little spectacular."
The chosen gown was midnight blue, structured at the waist but draping at the hem.
Nathaniel would approve of such a predictable outfit.
She hated that she cared about his opinion.
The ballroom inside Redcliff Pharma was not just lavish. It was modernised and overdecorated. There were sparkles and grand chandeliers, but these were holographic images.
There was a glass ceiling, revealing the maroon skyline and several entryways and exits attached to metallic balconies overlooking the main floor. In every corner, there were transparent screens projecting company emblems and symbols.
Guests moved within the room like objects in tailored suits and designer frocks. Everyone looked artificial and disingenuous.
Akhile descended the staircase alone. She felt out of place, and noticeably so.
There were eyes planted on her, assessing her, trying to connect her to a Princess, as the asset.
Nathaniel appeared beside her seamlessly. Akhile held her breath, startled by his sudden presence.
"Princess, you finally made it," he said quietly.
"I guess so," she replied. She had plastered a robotic smile so that it looked like they were cordial. This was an act after all, their contract arrangement.
His gaze slid down briefly, assessing her dress, her makeup and her hair.
"You represent us well tonight," he said.
"Do I?" she asked.
"You do."
"Well, Mr Redcliff, thank you for the compliment."
His hand hovered at the small of her back without touching her, guiding her forward through the crowd.
The proximity was deliberate. The guests smiled in fascination. Everyone seemed besotted with the concept of the soon to be Mrs Redcliff.
Norman stood at the edge of the ballroom, speaking with two acquaintances. When he saw her, his expression softened, but he looked away immediately after.
Akhile felt the snub. They hadn't spoken or seen each other after the morning at the library. Everyone had to stick to their roles just as they were assigned.
"You can do this," she whispered under her breath.
They walked toward a podium which was slightly elevated. Akhile stayed behind next to it, while Nathaniel climbed on, to make a speech.
Nathaniel's speech was brilliant. He had everyone's attention, and this man had convinced the entire group to sign up to the overworking of his employees.
He spoke of efficiency and the risks of this expansion. How they were planning to mitigate the risks and the sustainability of the initiative.
He did not mention that there was a betrothal in the mix, the blood moon, a prophecy.
But when he said the words "Sustainability will include human resources in consideration," his gaze found hers briefly. Only for a second.
It's what she had proposed during the board meeting. Nathaniel had heard her. He had made her a part of the decision-making.
And she felt useful and not like an intruder.
Applause filled the room. Akhile smiled, this time a genuine smile and joined in with the claps.
Music gradually resumed, and the crowd loosened up.
Glasses were clinking in the distance, and people were dancing and holding conversations, networking. Waiters were scattered in between serving finger foods and caviar.
An hour later, Akhile needed some air.
She slipped out through a side corridor that led away from the ballroom noise.
The hallway was dim and quiet. She could have a moment of peace or even go home.
"You shouldn't wander off by yourself."
She didn't jump this time.
It was Nathaniel.