𝐋𝐈𝐀𝐑'𝐒 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐄 || sodapop curtis

009 | identity

WE HAD ARRIVED at the castle, and it was decorated elaborately, strings of lights surrounding us. The night was finally here; the sun had just set into the night, and the stars twinkled above us. There were many other cars with girls who would attend; so I was a bit nervous. The valet driver opened the door for me as I stepped out of the car. I looked around me, and took in all of the beauty.

A royal chaperone who was also dressed for the occasion, grabbed my elbow and led me into the castle. I heard the sound of music being played as we walked inside. It was like something out of a fantasy world; large chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, and candles from iron candelabras lit the dull room along with the lights. There were many tables of food and sweets, some I have never seen before.

I had never been to nothing like this, so I just stood there; awkwardly. Other girls danced to the music around me, and I felt out of place. That is, until someone asked me to dance.

"Excuse me, ma'dam, may I have this dance?"
"Of course." I said.

He took my hand, and his touch gave me butterflies. I couldn't help but blush under my mask. I felt him grab my waste, and I laid my hands on his shoulders. We danced along to the music that was played, and suddenly I thought, I could be dancing with the prince. I wasn't sure though, because I was yet to see his face, if at all.

"Have you danced before?" He asked me.
"N-no, I haven't." I said, awkwardly.
"Ah, that's alright. just follow my lead."

We continued dancing for a little longer. I was sort of enjoying it- and I wasn't expecting that.

"Thank you ma'dam, I must go now." He said, bowing to me.
"Okay, thank you." I said. I guess that's what your supposed to say?

Anyways, I made my way over to the food table; or should I say tables. There was a literal feast of lavish finger foods. I had canapés and stuffed mushrooms; I also had some of the chocolate mousse, it looked delicious.

•••

Just as I had finished eating, another man came up to me. He was so bubbly; I could see that from the way he acted around the other guests. He bowed before me and took my hand, and planted a small kiss on it.

"Hello, my good lady." He said.
"Hello, sir."
"How are you on this fine evening?" His voice was so soothing and caring.
"I'm faring well, and yourself?"
"I'm good, thank you. May I have this dance?" He asked.

He softly took my hand and we were slowly dancing. His hands on my waist were so gentle, and it just felt so right to be dancing with him. It didn't feel like the last dance I had; for that had felt fake compared to this.

Our eyes met once, and I was mesmerized. This was no normal chaperone I was dancing with; I was sure, that this was the prince of Venice. Then, it all clicked in my head. That boy I saw at the DX; Ponyboy I think his name was. His brother, Sodapop wasn't drafted. He was right in front of me.

"Y-your the prince." I said under my breath. The look in his eyes softened, and he nodded.
"Yes. You know something, don't you?"
"Possibly."
"Come with me." He said, leading me to a large spiral staircase. We walked through a long hallway and he opened the door to a room which must've been his.

"So, tell me. How did you know?"
"Well, back in Tulsa, and I can imagine you know what I am talking about, I'm pretty sure I met your brother. And your best friend."
"Ponyboy and Steve?"
"Yep."
"Okay, what did Ponyboy tell you?"
"That you got drafted. Is that really what he thinks?"
"No- it's a long story-"
"I have all night."