Page 97 of Code of Heart

Levi let out a relieved laugh, pride swelling in his chest. That tiny design detail, one he had requested personally, was the crowning jewel in her eyes.

Joy surged through him, but it collided with the unmistakable punch of dread settling low and hard. If she looked this stunning to him, the rest of the men at the ball were going to lose their minds.

He would have to keep his jealousy in check, or he was going to lose his shit every time another man glanced her way. Tonight wasn’t about him. Before he could think any further, a heavy hand clapped his shoulder.

Owen leaned in, a devilish grin curling his mouth. “This is going to besoentertaining to watch,” he murmured.

Levi groaned internally.I’m completely and utterly screwed.

CHAPTER 42

Aurelia

Ivy and Grace left soon after the grand reveal, leaving Levi, Aurelia, and Owen to head to Starhaven Manor together. Aurelia took the back seat, carefully spreading out her gown and trying to ignore the lingering unease clinging to her.

She glanced down at the sandals Levi had bought her. They were Greek goddess-inspired flats adorned with the same crystals as her gown, delicate vines wrapping past her ankles. Even she felt like she had become the embodiment of the Harvest Charity Ball.

As they pulled into the long, winding driveway, the view took her breath away. By day, it had been beautiful, but at night…it was like stepping through a portal to a hidden realm. Twinkling lights wove through autumnal vines and lush greenery, casting a soft, enchanted glow.

Even Owen was struck silent for a moment. Then, with a theatrical bow, he declared, “Damn…even I’ll bow before you, oh woodland goddess. This is incredible!”

An attendant directed them to the designated parking area. Once parked, Levi circled to open Aurelia’s door. She took his hand, stepping carefully down, her dress shimmering under the lights. When she tucked herself against his side, Levi leaned in and nipped her ear.

“I haven’t even seen the inside yet, and I’m already amazed,” he murmured. “But mostly, I’m amazed by you, Auri.”

Heat flooded her cheeks, but before she could reply, Owen clapped his hands dramatically. “Let’s find the snacks before I start chewing on the decorations!”

They made their way up the grand stone steps, passing under an arch of glittering lights and vines that turned the entryway into a living fairytale.

At the entrance, guests were handed the upscale glow sticks Aurelia had commissioned. When she explained their purpose, Owen chuckled. “Someone’s definitely breaking a hip tonight.”

Levi tried—and failed—not to laugh.

Inside the ballroom, the transformation was beyond anything Aurelia could have imagined. The space had become a magical forest under starlit skies. Nymphs and woodland creatures served hors d’oeuvres. A waterfall of sorbet punch flowed from a sculpted tree trunk, surrounded by lavish displays of fruits, vegetables, and charcuterie.

Canopies of flowers and vines hung from the ceiling, glittering crystals and warm lights peeking through like stars. The dance floor, bar, silent auction table, and stage blended seamlessly into the enchanted setting.

Levi’s sharp inhale and soft, awed, “Wow,” made her heart soar.

“What do you think?” she asked nervously.

He turned to her, his eyes shining. “I think you’re in charge of every event we ever host from now on.” And before she could react, he pulled her close and kissed her like they were the only two people in the room.

She was still dazed when Charles approached, dressed in a classic black tuxedo, a glass of bourbon in hand.

“You’ve outdone yourself, Aurelia,” he praised warmly. “I’d say this might even surpass Eleanor’s finest events.”

Blushing, Aurelia smiled shyly.

Charles studied her for a moment longer, his voice humming with approval. “You also look stunning, as though you were born to rule this magical kingdom tonight.”

Levi instinctively reached for her hand, grounding himself as he fought off a possessive growl.

Charles gave Levi a knowing smile, then leaned in close to whisper something in Aurelia’s ear. Levi stiffened until Charles stepped back with a tender smile, gazing at Aurelia the way a grandfather would his granddaughter. Levi’s chest loosened a bit. Aurelia’s expression melted into stunned disbelief before she threw her arms around Charles.

“Thank you,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.

“You deserve it,” Charles replied, his eyes misting.