Royal Masquerade The Prince And Cinderella

Chapter Four

Inside the ballroom of Blackwater manor, Nick was accompanied by Stephen and Ava, who would soon be his friend's wife. Nick had arrived yesterday. His intention was to keep a low profile in England for the upcoming weeks. His father was attempting to arrange a marriage between him and his ex sister-in-law. After his brother's untimely death 8 months ago. The pressure had increased significantly recently, and stumbling upon a naked Sophia in his bed had been the ultimate tipping point.

He had left as soon as he could, not telling his parent of his location. Stephen had been his University room mate and lived within a suitable distance of London. During their conversation last week, Stephen had suggested he stay at Blackwater Manor. the only events on their calendar were this masquerade ball and Stephen's own wedding. Nick requested Stephen and his family to keep his identity a secret.

The last thing he wanted was for the media to find out that the new crown prince of Cristonia was staying here. Stephen had to give his word not to disclose it, not even to his future wife. Meeting the woman, Nick felt relieved that she was oblivious to who he really was.

From his perspective, it was clear that she exuded the characteristics of a gold digger. Throughout his life, he had encountered numerous women similar to her. If a more promising opportunity arose, she would swiftly switch her affections. Specifically, him. Up to this point, she had been quite dismissive towards him, only thinking he was a friend from Stephen's University days, and well out of his league. If only she knew! Hadn't Sophia been the same?

Nick heard the gasps and voices suddenly quietened around him, then someone said, "Who is she?" Nick, like the rest of the crowd, turned his head towards the person who had captured everyone's attention, positioned near the ballroom doors.

"Sweet Jesus!" Stephen mumbled, realising it was probably not the best thing to say with his annoyed fiancée right next to him.

"Who the hell is she?" Ava inquired in a pinched voice. Nick had a strong liking for Stephen, so he didn't want their disagreement to turn into a public confrontation.

Nick said, "She would be my date." He hoped it would keep Ava from having a meltdown. Walking away from them, he headed straight towards the vision and leaned in to whisper in her ear. To the casual observer, it would look like he was kissing her ear. Not yet. Maybe later, Nick thought. She smelled divine. "My name is Nick. If you don't want a scene with a very jealous soon to be mistress of the manor, I would say you are with me." Nick pulled back slightly and noticed her bright blue eyes widen, shifting towards Stephen and Ava. She was acquainted with them. Why did nobody have any idea who she was?

Rapidly evaluating the situation, the blonde with Rapunzel-like hair nodded. "I think that would be for the best," she whispered.

"And whom shall I introduce you as?" Nick was eager to know her name

"Hum."

Ella had to make a fast decision. Her sister's anger was evident on Ava's face. Ava had little reason to complain if she was, this man's date. He was a stranger. Ella couldn't explain her certainty that the man in front of her was not local. Maybe it was his air of authority, with no one else in this area possessing shoulders as wide or a physique as remarkable as his. With a small head shake, Ella returned her attention to her sister's reaction, her current problem. Ava would be furious if she found out she was Ella. From across the room, Ella noticed the storm brewing on Ava's face. The spotlight was no longer on her. Ella wished to steer clear of any scene that could cause distress for Mary Blackwater. Coming had been a bad idea, and now she felt sick. Ella's mind was completely empty as she desperately tried to come up with a name quickly. Using the name of someone their age in town was not an option for her. She was completely unknown to everyone dress as she was and wearing a mask that covered part of her face. Em fulfilled the role of her fairy godmother in a sense.