I nervously picked at my dress, a dark green dress that was rather plain save for the headdress of jewels that covered the entire length of my hair. From the top of my hair, delicate strands that had matching emeralds caught the light in my white hair. I love the effect of hair jewelry, especially since I no longer wore necklaces.
I had told Lady Horla of the opera and she said she would meet me there, that she had someone very important that she wanted me to meet. I didn't care for the guest that she had, I just want to see a dear friend. Once I exit the carriage, I see Lady Horla standing next to a man at the steps of the Opera House. I approach the pair and I notice they have the same downcast eyes that shine with excitement.
She rushes to me, throwing her arms around me and hugging me with a squeal. "Master Solon!"
I hug her back with a smile, a smile that came naturally and not forced. I touch my lips when we part, shocked at this unconscious display. But, I pay it no mind, leaning into the smile and showing her how happy I am.
"Lady Horla," I reach out and grab her hands. "I'm glad to see you were able to come!"
"My brother managed to grab some tickets. George, this is Master Solon." She finally introduces us. I immediately recognize him as her brother.
I now stare at the military man that my brother wants to make the Captain. He's taller than me, but maybe a bit shorter than Elric. He's well built from the years in the military, but he has an easy smile and looks pleasant to talk to.
"Master Solon," he greets with a bow, greeting me with normal customs because my position is higher.
"Count Horla," I smile and give him my hand. He takes it and kisses it. I'm surprised by this move, but I don't express it. I look to Horla who smiles widely, happy at our exchange.
"I've heard many good things about you." He takes a step forward and lowers his mouth to my ear. "Thank you for saving my sister's life. Please let me repay you some way."
I inhale sharply and smell his scent, a cologne that's strong but still good. My eyes widen and I shake my head, leaning back. I'm very uncomfortable with a man so close to me. I don't like strangers in my personal space. I try my best to keep the smile on my face, to not offend the sibling pair.
"There is no need," I smile and look to Horla who has a wide grin. I reach out for her, taking a step back.
"Let's go in!" She steps between us and holds onto our arms. I follow the siblings inside and I see a lot of people are finding their seats in the extravagant hall. A man in uniform comes, asking for our tickets.
As he instructs us how to get there, I hear my name called out. I turn and see Lady Warren walking to us. She holds her fiancé's arm and he looks bored and clearly doesn't want to be in this building.
"Lady Warren," I greet, receiving her hug when we meet. She then turns to Lady Horla and greets her and her brother.
The five of us fall into friendly conversation as we walk to our seats. I see the numbers of the door increase to the same number as my balcony.
Suddenly conversations from around us goes silent. I look at the girls' faces of horror and anger behind me. I slowly turn and see Prince Ivan walking in with a lady on his arm.
She's tall and her... assets seem to fall out of the top of her low dress. I don't recognize her, but Lady Warren huffs.
"She's a dancer, what is he doing with her?" She screeches into our ears. I can't respond, unsure of what to say.
I'm not surprised, I'm used to him with other girls but this is the first time in my new life. This is the first time he does this in front of the leader of society, where his cousin used to encourage his behavior.
YOU ARE READING
Not Giving Into Fate
FantasíaI was the daughter of Duke Solon, I thought I was the last child. My elder brother is following in my father's stead. We were never really close. We both share my father's personality, a wedge that makes it hard for the three of us to talk to one an...
