A Love Confession from Las Vegas

le leaves clinging to the branches and the gentle breeze create the illusion of being in a high-latitude region. Yet,

yish. Her assistant pointed out a 40% chance of rain from afternoon to evening and reminded her to prepare for the drop i

ht for California's Highway 1. This iconic coastal highway north of Los Angeles, winding along the Pacific Ocean, is renowned for its

me up," the voice said. It was sweet and pleasant, though

Mia, seated beside her. "It's okay. The company hasn

that, lacking standout looks, she hoped the name would grab attention. At just 22 years old, fresh

oing, without any diva-like behavior. Relieved, she let down her guard and asked, "It'

irst public appearance years ago. She raised her hand a

stick with me!" W

stardom, Mia usually had three or four

So why didn't you

y. "The organizers

," Winni

make an exception?" Mia asked

nderstandab

est Actress awards and one Best Supporting Actress award-practically the pinnacle for a young a

id, "Even

." Mia muttered under her breath. "Do

d simply, raising her eyebrows slightly, her

playful, almost childlike. "Bu

if making casual conversation,

into the distance. After a long drive, t

s a m

ear and pure. Inside the harbor, hundreds of sailboats and yachts were moored, their sails neatly tied to the masts in preparation for the predicted storm. This was

a meant they were

e mountain, their large glass windows reflected the emerald sea. Inside, dazzling crystal chandeliers

She caught sight of a towering, pure white superyacht docked at the marina, so massive she couldn't count how many decks it had at a

floor, Edison, the host of the banquet,

going to pour. The hotel says there'll be a massive s

his head. "Don't tell me y

y's hedonistic atmosphere. Few people knew that hidden within the executive office on the top floor was a giant ocean-view wi

he said, exhaling a stream of smoke as he habit

ere at the marina, how do you plan to make

ile, tinged with unhurried nonchalance. "

lations for the event, asked, "Mr. Marlowe is still in Las V

s meticulous in everything he did. The su

e the storm arrived, climbing steadily to the stratosphere. Against the darkening

atically. A leg in stiletto heels emerged from beneath the hem of a sleek black