Page 24 of Redeeming the Villain

People are setting up speakers and decorations as we start ascending the large staircase to the house. The Kensingtons usually only throw one or two parties a year, which are over the top and absolutely wild.

Everyone wants an invite. It always starts out pretty tight, with a list of attendees who are checked at the gate, but by the end of the night, the place is packed.

As we walk into the foyer, Asher grabs a bottle of whiskey from a worker strolling past with an arm full of bottles. “Anyone?”

My hand is outstretched before I realize it. “Fuck yes. Give me that.”

Griffin’s stare finds me instantly, and I don’t miss the look of worry hidden in his gaze. But I need this, whether it’s a good decision or not. Besides, I wouldn’t be living up to my reputation if I went easy at a Kensington party.

Goose bumps erupt along my skin as I step out of the Lyft and onto the paved entrance to the Kensington house. The air has a crispness to it, fluttering through my dress as the wind blows around me.

This estate’s really nice. My eyes travel over the gated entrance. I’ve heard of the Kensingtons, even before coming to HEAU as a student. When my dad used to drag me to this school for donation ceremonies, I heard the Kensington name. The only higher contributors than us, which is saying something since I’ve seen the checks he cuts for HEAU.

There are already so many people inside the gate. I’m scared to see how crowded the house is. Sardines packed in a can?

I’m sure they have the space to manage it though. I mean, for God’s sake, there are multiple properties on the estate.

As I approach the booth at the gate, I wait in line as a few people list off their names. The man checks them on his computer and waves them ahead.

I will say that I’m impressed so far by the structure and staff for tonight. Security workers are everywhere, guarding who comes in and also strolling back and forth on the property. It’s nice to know that they are taking precautions to keep people safe.

I’m up next, and as I step forward, my heart is in my throat.

This is a prank. I’m not really invited. I’m not on the list.

Malik is going to pop out at any second and laugh at me. Just like the old days.

“Hello. Your name?” the older man asks politely as I reach the open window.

I clear my throat softly. “Alora … Alora Briarwood.”

There is no gleam of recognition in his eyes, making me feel slightly better that this isn’t all some elaborate scheme.

“Ahh, here you are.” He types into his computer. “Welcome. Please grab a wristband and secure it around your wrist.”

An assortment of colored bands decorates the table set against the booth. Which one should I choose? Do they have any meaning behind them, or are they just fun?

Oh God … the choice begins to shut me down.

“Everything okay?” the polite man asks.

My gaze flicks to his, and I already feel way too overwhelmed by everything happening, and I haven’t even stepped inside the actual party yet.

“Um … yeah. Thank you,” I mumble, hesitantly reaching out and selecting a pink band.

It matches my dress at least. Glancing down at the ruched pink satin fabric, I slowly stride forward, fidgeting with the strap of my purse.

The sky is dark, the only light created from the lamp posts, and sconces on the building ahead. The gate is blocked open, and I follow the couple ahead of me inside, my short heels clicking on the pavement.

My gold bracelet reflects the light next to the party band. A gift from my dad. One of the many he threw my way in order to buy my love. Back when I was too naive to recognize it.

I might not be close with him anymore, but I’m not going to just throw away gold jewelry. I’m not an idiot. Besides, I also have a matching gold dangle choker that goes perfect with this ensemble.

But the luxury and pretty dress are doing little to settle the nerves and adrenaline coursing through my body.

Asher never sent me a text, and I wonder if that has anything to do with Malik. But Blair sent me the address and told me that I was more than welcome to hang out with her when I arrived.

I appreciate her warmth and welcoming spirit, but part of me can’t help but think she’s playing along with some game Malik coordinated.

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