Chapter 51

Natalie POV

I tried on the dresses one at a time, with each one more captivating than the previous one. The gentle materials hugged my body's natural contours, as intricate elements shimmered in the light, producing a stunning exhibition. I spun around and looked at myself in the mirror, wishing to see a hint of love in Tristan 's gaze. However, his calm facial expression stayed unchanged as he stood just outside the fitting room, serving as a constant indication of his emotional disconnection.

I put on a different dress and gazed at myself in the mirror once more. While fixing my appearance, I noticed Tristan's gaze in the mirror. His eyes held a gentleness, showing a hint of kindness that was previously absent. The teasing and coldness had become gentler, giving way to a more tender emotion.

Tristan spoke at last, his voice lacking any enthusiasm as he commented, "You appear pleasant." "Perhaps this one is overly glittery," he said, pointing to a dress decorated with detailed beadwork. "It takes away from your inherent beauty."

I put on a fake smile, hiding my feelings of letdown. "Wow, do you have some kind words to share?"

Tristan chuckled emptily, showing no emotion in his eyes. "No, absolutely not. Simply expressing my emotions.

"Do you think I'm attractive?"

"Is this where I start to deceive?" "Yes, you definitely are."

I felt my cheeks heat up with a combination of frustration and desire, longing to catch a glimpse of his genuine feelings. Despite his outwardly icy demeanor, Tristan had a sharp perception and a frankness that sliced through the atmosphere.

Feeling obligated to return the favor, I exited the dressing room in my preferred dress, motioning for Tristan to look at me. "It's your move," I stated, my voice hinting at a challenge. "Let's find out if your fashion sense is as 'top-notch' as you claim."

Tristan lifted one eyebrow, his look distant. "Sure," he responded abruptly, vanishing into the dressing room. Peering through the slightly drawn curtain, I observed, hoping to catch a glimpse of vulnerability. He appeared wearing a custom-made suit that highlighted his wide shoulders, yet his demeanor stayed just as cold. I felt a whirl of disappointment and yearning as my breath hitched.

"Any updates?" Tristan inquired with a condescending tone. "Does it live up to your impeccable expectations?"

Ignoring the pain in my chest, I smiled and nodded. "I think you appear quite presentable," I responded, my voice displaying a controlled lack of emotion. "Fairly presentable."

Tristan's eyes showed a slight annoyance as he gazed at me with determination. "Is this acceptable?"

I held back my emotions, maintaining a calm voice as I stepped away. "Yes, simply decent," I responded, attempting to keep my cool. "No additional things."

As we gazed into each other's eyes, a silent confrontation was taking place, the tension between us becoming more intense. Tristan 's callous attitude remained unyielding, making me yearn for a glimpse of the hidden warmth I knew he possessed.

The original text is retained with no changes, only synonyms and rewordings will be provided to meet the requirement of paraphrasing.

As I made my way into the grand hall, I felt anxiety creeping all over me as I didn't know what to expect. The moment I laid eyes on Tristan, I felt my heart stop for a split second. His usually calm demeanor wavered briefly, revealing a glimpse of amazed admiration beneath his usual mask of composure. Before I could enjoy his brief display of vulnerability, he swiftly regained his composure and concealed his true emotions behind a mocking smile.

Tristan drawled sarcastically, saying, "Well, well." I have to admit, you really exceeded expectations. You appear distinctly... special.

I resisted the hurtful impact of his words, striving to maintain my self-assurance despite his apparent teasing.

I understood that his reaction was more significant than his words, yet it was hard not to be influenced by his icy attitude.

I came up to Tristan, a hint of vulnerability creeping into my voice. "Are you implying that I look awful with that comment?"

He laughed, but there was no kindness in the sound. Is it awful? Not quite. Not quite the elegant image I had in mind.

I felt a blend of anger and pain inside me, yet I was determined not to be overwhelmed by it. I adjusted my stance, calling upon my own power within. "Well, I guess I'll have to rely on my personal charisma instead."

Upon our arrival at the ballroom, a wave of insecurity suddenly engulfed me. The rest of the women in their heavenly dresses appeared to exude sophistication and poise, resembling divine creatures gliding effortlessly. I seemed like a regular person surrounded by their divine beauty, my lack of confidence ready to dim the magical ambiance.

Tristan observed my discomfort and looked at me out of the corner of his eye. "Feeling anxious, are you?" Do not fret, you are completely entitled to feel that way. Angels dressed in elaborate outfits, displaying absolute grace.

I frowned outwardly. Tristan 's cruel behaviour. When will these six months be over?

"Do you ever have anything positive to say about me?"

He casually shrugged, a subtle smile lingering on his lips. Simply telling the truth. Moreover, you possess a quality that they lack.

Curiosity combined with self-doubt as I raised an eyebrow. "What is that?"

He briefly showed a gentler expression before looking away abruptly. Unclear sophistication.

I contort my face in puzzlement at his words.

Once the music started, Tristan reached out his hand with a surprising softness.

I put my shaking hand in his, feeling my cheeks turn red from a combination of embarrassment and admiration. While we danced to the music, everything else disappeared and I only paid attention to the feeling of his touch and the gentleness in his eyes.

Tristan astonished me with his elegant gestures and the manner in which he confidently took charge. His attitude became more gentle, showing glimpses of the kind man hidden behind his icy exterior. I blushed uncontrollably, a rush of emotions swirling through me as our bodies synchronized flawlessly.

In the midst of the whirlwind of feelings and the strong attraction between us, I couldn't resist expressing my thoughts. "You have a surprising talent for this dance, considering how cruel and unfeeling you are."

I met Tristan's eyes and saw a hint of vulnerability in his gaze. "Taken aback?" A man in my position should definitely know how to.

My heart leaped in my chest, the unspoken suspense hanging heavily in the atmosphere. It was a moment of honesty and openness, where our protective barriers fell away, even if just for a brief moment.

However, as the night progressed, the magic started to diminish. I observed Tristan making gestures to an attractive woman on the other side of the room. I acted as if I hadn't noticed, but Tristan released me abruptly.

"You're free to have a drink at the table... I'll return soon."