Chosen

Chapter 20

How did I not see him?

I glanced over to see Finneas standing there looking towards the dance floor. His classic bored face in place.

Taking another sip of wine, I ignored him.

Should I say something? Should I try to be... friendly? Like nothing was ever there? Because for him it clearly never was...

I opened my mouth and closed it.

I glanced at him and he glanced at me.

After a moment more of silence, my chest grew tighter and I knew I couldn't do this right now. I needed more time. I started to walk away.

"Would you like to dance?" he said softly so I barely heard.

What the hell was wrong with him?!

An image of him and Lacey wrapped together flashed before me.

I let one bitter laugh out.

I kept walking but said coldly over my shoulder, "Lacey looks a little bored, maybe you can entertain her for another night."

Crossing to the far side of the room, I swear I could feel his eyes on me.

I found an empty table, took a seat, and happily drank my wine. Well maybe happily was an exaggeration. But I did feel better somehow after that little remark.

After a few songs, Lillian sat down next to me dramatically.

"My maid was right," she said and moaned, "I should not have worn these heels."

I laughed at her.

"How are you feeling?" she asked, taking my almost empty wine glass and finishing it off.

I hesitated, "Fine."

She gave me a side-eyed look.

"I am," I said more confidently.

"Well, good," she nodded, adjusting her hairpins. "Because darling, you are the hottest girl in this room and you should not be caught up on someone who doesn't appreciate that."

"Yeah, clearly I'm a hot commodity," I motioned to my empty table jokingly.

"It's because Daddy Cedric has made it clear you're his top contender by giving you the first dance, they don't want to piss off the future king," she said and moved her finger across her neck in a cutting motion. "You are head and shoulders above anyone here."

"Oh stop, you're exaggerating," I said embarrassedly, waving her off.

"I call them like I see them," she shrugged and stood up. "Now, this girl's gotta go bag a nice nobleman since Ceddy clearly prefers brunettes." Winking at me she walked straight towards a handsome tall man with several metals pinned to his coat and offered her hand in greeting.

I shook my head and laughed at her. But was glad she didn't seem to mind Cedric giving me so much attention. I was worried it might upset her.

Three more dances passed and I was getting bored.

I didn't get any more wine because a certain someone was over there and Lillian had danced with three different men in a row.

Maybe I should sneak out?

"Lady Rowan, is it?" An older man with graying hair smiled and bowed next to me. He was slightly round and probably about my height. His smile was friendly and inviting.

"Yes, Hello," I said and smiled at the stranger.

"Duke Grimwald at your service," he grinned at me. "Would you like to dance?"