Chapter 91: Clara Whitmore Flipped Through the Hotel Brochure

"Is there a masquerade ball tonight?" Clara Whitmore flipped through the hotel brochure.

Sloane Bennett nodded excitedly. "It's the hotel's signature event, held every six months. Last time was retro court style, and before that was futuristic tech. This year's theme is Animal Kingdom, and they say ticket sales broke records."

The hotel lobby had transformed into a winter wonderland. A massive Christmas tree glittered with crystal ornaments as ribbons swayed gently in the warm air currents.

Sloane mysteriously pulled two masks from her bag. "I picked these out special for us. Fox for you, lion for me."

Clara examined the mask. "Why not tiger?"

"Tiger?"

"Isn't the king of the jungle more impressive?"

Sloane narrowed her eyes. "Clara Whitmore, asking for trouble?"

Clara quickly donned her mask and darted toward the elevator. "Come on, the ball's starting!"

"Just wait till I catch you! Who are you calling a tigress?" Sloane chased after her.

* * *

The 23rd floor ballroom blazed with light.

As the elevator doors opened, Clara felt dozens of eyes appraising her. The mask provided unexpected comfort, allowing her to face the unfamiliar crowd with ease.

Sloane dragged her straight to the bar. "Mojito for me. You?"

"Just lemon water."

Sloane rolled her eyes. "Make that a Long Island Iced Tea."

The bartender smirked. "Coming right up."

Clara massaged her temples. She didn't notice the intense gaze fixed on her from across the room.

Grant Holloway leaned against a Roman column near the entrance, his black musical note mask glinting coldly under the lights. His impeccably tailored suit jacket hung open at the collar, radiating an unapproachable aura.

Just as he turned to leave, a white-gloved hand with bunny ears touched his shoulder. "Waiting long?"

Paige Lawson blinked up at him through pink eyeshadow. "I got lost on the 24th floor. They're doing prize drawings tonight - let's try our luck."

Grant's voice softened unconsciously as he took in her fluffy ears. "Lead the way."

* * *

Sloane suddenly set down her drink, locking onto a tall wolf-masked figure across the room.

Clara waved her off knowingly. "Be safe."

"Obviously!" Sloane pounced toward her prey like the lioness she portrayed.

Left alone at the bar, Clara observed the now-roaring ballroom. Masked figures swayed to the music, their obscured faces adding to the electric atmosphere.