Beauty Unseen: The sisters of Folly trilogy (Book One)

Chapter Four: Breath of fresh air

Wendy took her time making her way into the bustling foyer of the large Capital estate, concerning herself with making sure her steps were even, being sure she wouldn't faint straight away, which would greatly vex her parents. Clarissa and Penelope rushed past her, the sisters whispering in each other's ears as Penelope let out a throaty laugh and Clarissa frowned, they bypassed their parents stepping through the doors and into the crowd of people.

Earl and countess Folly were already groveling, greeting this evening's hosts, Lord and Lady Baxter stood with all the grace of beautiful and wealthy people. Their wealth did nothing to take away from the kindness the couple was known for and Wendy had, had the opportunity to meet them thrice before and could confirm their gentle and friendly airs. Lady Baxter was only three years her junior and if life had been different for Wendy she was sure they would have become somewhat like friends. It was a shame that life was so cruel at times.

"Wendy, dear!" Lady Baxter's kind and soothing voice called above the many mingling voices, stepping forward from where she left her husband with Wendy's parents, she greeted her grabbing her hands with a joyful swing, as though she was happy to see Wendy and could not contain it. "It is so wonderful to see you tonight, dear Wendy. I had hoped with all my heart that I would get to see you and alas, the night has already swayed in my favor!" The tall young woman stood at least six inches taller than Wendy's short stature. Lady grace Baxter was tan in a style that many ladies would deem unfashionable to the normal pale complexions seen around the Capital, though Wendy found herself entranced by the woman with her long, straight, thick black hair that hung over one of her shoulders, the rest was pinned into a neat up-do, her grey almond eyes were framed with thick lashes and her dusky complexion with a rose gleam to her sharp cheekbones and jaw.

"You are much too kind, Lady Baxter." Wendy smiled at her as her anxiety spiked, her eyes slid around the room, already all of her family members were out of her sight, only leaving her alone to wonder where her parents could be lurking and what mischief her sisters might be mucking up.

"Please, call me Grace. If we are not friends by now, I have not been trying hard enough to win your affections." Her voice washed over Wendy's nerves like a calming balm, and she passed her a sly wink of encouragement. "I was only just speaking with Ian about how I longed to see you again soon, wasn't I darling?" Grace smiled into her turn towards her husband, Lord Ian Baxter, her face lighting with pure joy. There would never be a doubt in anyone's mind that these two beautiful people loved and belonged together. Lord Baxter stood much, much taller than Wendy, even making his elegant, swan-like wife appear short. His skin was creamy white with a healthy glow of color to it, he was not very muscular and yet he appeared confident with quick wit despite his quiet nature. He was known as a man who spoke rarely and doted on his loving wife and children. With hair like curly spun gold and gem blue eyes that hid every concealed emotion within, Wendy would love to hear the story of how these two found each other.

"Quite, my love" His voice was a deep brogue that fit with his shrouded aura.

Lady Baxter took her off guard, looping her arm with Wendy's and pulling her into step by her as Lord Baxter stayed a step behind the pair, his eyes moving around the crowded room lazily, almost coldly. Their appearances were opposite ends of a spectrum, a brightly shining gem that was hard and cold as ice deeply in love with the beautiful, dark swan who radiated warmth and a welcoming nature.

As they stepped through the main entryway set underneath a spiraling staircase lined with white roses and candles all glowing all along the walls, her ears were delighted by the melodies of instruments expertly played softly, their music floating around gently in the lowly lit room, it was not so dark as too cast shadows but the light felt softer, the room felt warm, the aroma of sweetly savory food with heavy drinks wafting in the air.