Chapter 98

"A masquerade ball?"

"Yeah. It's the hotel's tradition to hold one every six months. The theme is different each time. Last time it was a costume party; the one before that was Halloween-themed. This time, the theme is relatively common. Everyone's more accepting of the idea, so there might be a large crowd tonight."

As Christmas approached, Christmas trees adorned many corners of the hotel. Festive lights added to the merry atmosphere.

"When I came in," Winter continued, "the waiters were already wearing their masks. It'll be fun!"

She chose a fox mask for Miranda; hers was a lion, the king of the beasts. "How cool!"

Miranda asked, "Why didn't you choose a cougar mask for yourself?"

"Why a cougar?"

"A cougar is way cooler, no?"

Winter paused, then hissed. "Are you looking for a fight?"

Picking up her mask, Miranda fled. "Come on, we're going to be late!" she called, putting it on as she ran.

"Stand there! How dare you call me fierce! You're the cougar!"

The banquet hall was on the 23rd floor. Exiting the elevator, Miranda felt eyes on her.

She disliked large crowds, but felt at ease the moment she remembered her mask.

Winter pulled her to the bar. "One martini, please. Mimi, what will you have?"

Miranda replied, "A lemonade."

Winter was incredulous. "Say that again?"

Miranda began, "I want a lemo-"

Winter interrupted, telling the bartender, "She'll have a Bloody Mary!"

The bartender smiled. "Sure."

Miranda couldn't smile. Unbeknownst to her, someone watched her from afar, captivated.

Hansel stood at the banquet hall entrance, leaning against the wall, checking his watch periodically.

He wore an ornate mask with a black and gold crackle design and scattered musical notes. He looked cold and elegant in it, even more so in his slightly open white shirt. His attire conveyed an unapproachable yet attractive aura, turning heads.

After five minutes, Hansel's patience wore thin. He was about to leave when Ingrid patted his shoulder. "Dear, I'm here!"

Hansel turned. Ingrid wore a rabbit mask with furry ear tips and rabbit-eye makeup, complementing her innocent air.

"I went to the wrong place, that's why I'm late. I'm sorry," she explained, taking his hand. "I heard there's a mysterious grand prize tonight. I've been pretty lucky; I'm sure I'll win!"

Her cute demeanor calmed Hansel. "Let's go, then. You have a lucky draw to enter."

Winter had just set down her glass when a handsome man, to her liking, passed by. Before she could react, Miranda spoke. "Go on. Take it easy and don't get into trouble."

Winter blew her a kiss. "I'll go then."

Resigned, Miranda looked away. The hall was full of elegantly dressed guests; the atmosphere felt formal and ceremonious.

The romantic atmosphere and exotic music enlivened the crowd, who began to dance.

Miranda went to the dessert table, found a quiet spot, and enjoyed some cake while reviewing theses on her iPad, which she carried everywhere.

Suddenly, a slender hand appeared before her, followed by a deep, graceful voice. "Care to join me for a dance, lovely lady?"

(Today's Bonus Offer - This section needs context to be cleaned up appropriately.)