The Billionaire's Daughter

One of the things I hate with being an only child is that I don't have anyone to bicker with, to play with or even to connive with.

Whenever I watch a TV show, read a book or see a movie about siblings, I have this strange longing to have my own brother or sister. A sister that will style my hair and do my makeup on special days like this. Or a brother who will be my escort or date as a last resort during parties. Well, of course I am alone so I have to endure the laborious hair and make up from professional stylists in preparation for my post birthday party tonight.

"Dahhling, pleaze do not move zo much or elze we will not be able to finizh in time."

"Oh. Zorry, I mean Sorry."

"Uh uh uh... don't look yet, I wantz you to zee yourzelf when I'm done and not before..."

"Owkaaaay..."

After a few, okay geez, after feeling like I am in infinity and beyond, my hair and make up was done.

A group of model like girls entered the hotel room and helped me into my ball gown.

It was a midnight blue Badgley Mischka strapless lacey gown, which complements my green eyes. It was stunning. I can't believe that I will be wearing such an elegant gown.

Finally, my stylist Zandro, it was really Sandro but I have gotten used to saying it the way he does, let me look at myself in the mirror.

What I saw shocked me. I almost did not recognize myself. The hair and makeup was simple and classy. Just the way I like it.

"Oh! Zhank you very muzch! I look pretty!"

"You're welcome Zaphira and remember, you are alwayz alwayz pretty! You are gorgoeuz!"

"Thank you!"

I just had to hug him..

"Tata! Come on, everybody'z waiting for the belle of ze ball!"

Praise all the angels above for guiding me all throughout my grueling travel down the winding staircase.

This will be one of my accomplishments for this year. Not making a fool of myself by tripping on the hem of my gown and falling flat on my face.

I was introduced to everyone and was escorted by one of Zandro's models which I didn't see after he led me down the long flight of stairs to the dining hall where over 300 guests were present.

I know I shouldn't hope for Franco to come but I still sent him an invitation accompanied with a three-piece suit and shoes.

I know I will receive a lot of scolding from him since he always rejects my gifts or any offer of assistance. It's just the way he is. Which is actually very nice of him. He doesn't take advantage of anyone.

I just hope he won't let me down.

I saw some familiar faces that I also wished not to see so I just ignored them.

This is supposed to be my night and I won't let them get the best of me.

Following Franco's advise, I spent time with the business tycoons and some of my mom's politician friends. Being a bookworm and my inclination towards Business Economics and state affairs helped me make an impression. A good one I hope. But by the smiles and look of appreciation my mother is throwing at me, I know that I may have been doing a good job. "Saphira, this is Senator McKinley, Mr. Donnovan Kingsley and Mr. Prince Maxwell."

"Nice to meet you."

I am not sure how many times I have used those words after my mother or father's introductions but I will be dammed if I had to say them again.

After a few hours or minutes, I really can't tell the time but I felt my feet in my four inch stilettos start to complain. I decide to sit on one of the somewhat hidden tables hoping that no one would notice me. I took my phone out and started dawdling on Facebook when I felt some strange inclination to lift my head and look at the ballroom's entrance.

What happened next was unexpected.

I saw the most handsome guy walk in the ballroom. The dramatic effect of his late arrival added to the enchanting effect of his massive sex appeal. Almost all the ladies who saw him ogled at his magnificence. Well, of course including me.

In his confident strides, he went to my direction. I could feel my heart doing somersaults, backflips and a few extra kick and punches. I heard my breath hitch up as I smelled his masculine scent.

How he found me amidst the throng of people was surprising but I don't have to care about that.

"Saphira. Happy Birthday." He sat down beside me and then gave me the sweetest smile.

"Franco."

"Well bestie, I am here now and wearing your impossibly expensive gift that I will be returning tomorrow. Shall I say the magic words now?" "Huh?" Still feeling hazy with his unexpected arrival and his gorgeous appearance.

"Surprise!!!"

"Oh that. Yeah. Thanks for coming."

"What?! No gushing over me? You won't even jump into my arms and hug me tight to acknowledge my very commanding presence?" Hearing the teasing sound of his voice, I regained my senses and did the most logical thing at that moment.

"Awww!"

"Shhhh. Not too loud."

"Why flick my nose?!"

"Because you're being too cocky."

He looked so cute, no scratch that, he looked so delicious to look at.

"Can we go somewhere else? I mean, I don't want to be rude but I just came here to see you and you alone. I don't want to meet anyone."

I immediately got his point and I knew he would love one place I have in mind.

Your room, said my subconscious which I really have to teach some values when I find the time.

"Come on, I have something to show you but I have to say goodbye to my parents first, else they may have another party, a search party just for me." "What a lame joke but sure, I'll wait for you here. Aww!" I flicked his nose once more.

"I can't help it you're being so ..."

"Cute."

"Just stay there and wait for me." He held up his hand to help me stand and I took it, our faces inches from each other because of my improved height. "Yes my Princess."

I looked at him and saw his green eyes darken for a while. I guess I am just imagining things.

Now, I have to pull this off otherwise my night is over.

Finding my parents took longer than usual and bidding goodbye is harder.

"Mom, I have to go, my feet hurts so much and I would like to rest now. I'll go home so I can be more comfortable. Please mom?"

I grabbed the chance when she was most likely not to complain, when she is busy with entertaining the guests.

"Okay darling, take the limousine. Your father and I will be staying here tonight. Just sent the driver back tomorrow morning." "Thanks Mom."

After giving her a kiss, I hurried back to where I left my best friend waiting and nothing could have prepared me for what I saw.00000