Duchess Trilogy: Book 1: Mafia

Chapter Ten: A Royal Ball Invitation

Brie's POV

I decided to sleep on it after what I witnessed in the library. After I showered and finished my hair and makeup, I decided to keep it to myself. I also thought of exploring the estate every day throughout the month to see if I could get more information than what I had already. I know the day of the event will be the wedding day, so I just need to gather more information by then.

I went to the closet and looked for a simple outfit to wear today. A casual navy, short tank dress, and some slip-on navy espadrille shoes. I left the room hastily and then explored the estate with the map that Janja had given me after the whole invasion situation. I decided to explore the second floor, as it's normally for all the "gentlemen's" rooms that were on duty.

It seemed pretty chill and quiet today. Nothing too special is going on today. I shrugged it off and then headed downstairs to eat some breakfast.

As I walked into the room, some family couples with their kids had gotten back from their summer vacation. I even glanced at Ryan, who was on the other side of the dining hall, enjoying his breakfast alone and reading a book.

The waitress came by to take my order, and then I sat down at the table a few chairs away from Stacey and Niccolò with their two kids. I couldn't help but glance over at the family and smile, admiring their engagement with their children. A little toddler wearing a bright white bow on the top of her head and a young boy who just would not stop talking about his fun adventures. The little one glanced over my way and couldn't stop smiling. Engaged, I smiled back at the little one, and she began to giggle. Stacey was wondering why her little one was giggling so much and glanced my way. Embarrassed, I looked the other way.

"You seem to have given Karsyn an impression," Stacey says politely, smiling and tickling her on the sides, making her little one giggle harder.

"I'm sure it's the red hair. I seem to always get the kids' attention that way. " I couldn't help but smile and play peek-a-boo with Karsyn. The little girl lit up the room with her beautiful giggles, and everyone around couldn't help but smile.

The little boy, Gregory, glances my way, a little annoyed at interrupting his conversation. "Why do you have red hair?" He asked bluntly.

His mother glared at him, but he was determined to know what I would say. I smiled towards him and answered cheerfully, "A good question! I was born with it!"

He then studies me harder, "Are you a witch or something? Daddy told me that all redheads have magical powers."

There were a couple of chuckles from around the room, but his dad tapped on the table, glaring hard at his son. The little one felt embarrassed, "Sorry for asking..." He said, about to cry.

I couldn't help being concerned about how his father is toward his kid. But then I got a good idea. "Honestly, I am a witch! But I'm a 'good' witch, though! I bring joy, magic, and even treats for all good boys and girls!"

The little one wipes his eyes and smiles some. "Can I see some magic, please?" He asks kindly.

The waitress then sat my food in front of me. I glanced over to the small mini chocolate bars and grinned. "Okay! I'll show you some. First, close your eyes!" He closes his eyes and begins to giggle. I reach for the chocolate minis and watch him closely as I set it in front of him quietly. "No peaking..." I say in a cheerful tone, making him giggle harder, still keeping his eyes closed. I adjusted myself into my seat quietly and then made a 'Tada' gesture, "Now open your eyes!"

He opens them and drops his mouth, surprised! He was so amazed by the trick and started clapping loudly. The parents chuckled and clapped along with him. "She is SO cool mom!" And then proceeds to eat the chocolate. "She sure is, Gregory," Stella says happily.