Queen of Steel: Throne of Lies

Chapter 18 - Masquerade Mayhem

Allistair's POV

The grand ballroom was a whirlwind of elegance, music and intrigue swirling together in perfect harmony. I adjusted my midnight blue mask, my eyes scanning the kaleidoscope of colors until they landed on the enchanting vision I'd been eagerly anticipating.

Tahlia looked ethereal in a flowing champagne and blue gown that hugged her curves perfectly. The shimmering fabric caught the light, casting a subtle glow that made her seem almost otherworldly. A daring high slit ran up the side, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of her toned leg with each step she took. This bold design choice added an alluring touch to her already captivating presence, contrasting the gown's elegance with a hint of provocative charm.

Her mask was a delicate work of art, jeweled with sapphire and diamond accents that sparkled like stars against the night sky. As she moved through the crowd, conversations paused, captivated by her regal bearing. She looked every inch the heiress she was born to be, exuding sophistication and poise.

Tahlia wasn't just the organizer of the ball; she was its reigning queen, commanding attention and admiration effortlessly. Her presence was magnetic, drawing everyone's gaze and making it impossible to look away. She embodied grace and nobility, a living testament to the legacy she carried.

As I watched her, my heart swelled with pride and adoration. Every movement she made resonated deeply within me. She was more than just a vision of beauty; she was my muse, my confidante, my love. The way her eyes sparkled when she laughed, the subtle glances in my direction, knowing I was watching—it all filled me with awe.

Seeing her so confident and radiant reminded me of why I fell in love in the first place. In that moment, surrounded by the ballroom's splendor and the admiring eyes of the guests, I realized how deeply I cherished her, how she illuminated my world.

As if sensing my gaze, her eyes found mine, and that radiant smile I adored lit up her face. My heart swelled seeing the love in her expression. This remarkable, beautiful woman had chosen me, and I would move mountains to be worthy of her.

"Hey, Barbie boy! There you are," Antoine's familiar voice purred as he swept up beside me in a flamboyant purple ensemble. "Who is that utterly divine creature in white?"

I followed his hungry gaze to where Rosemary Smith stood demurely in a shimmering gown, hands clasped before her. Even I had to admit she looked stunning, though in a fragile, delicate way.

"That's Rosemary Smith," I replied neutrally.

Antoine's eyes went comically wide as they shot back to me. "You can't possibly mean the same girl our dearest icy queen so vehemently detests?" His sharp intake of breath said he had connected the dots.

A sly grin stretched across his face. "Well, if the kitten has evolved into a swan, I daresay our queen bee may have some competition for biggest beauty on campus this evening."

His eyes danced with mirth. "I must admit, watching that popsicle of yours turn a captivating shade of green would be utterly delicious entertainment."

I chuckled, shaking my head at his antics. "You're incorrigible, my friend. But I'd tread carefully if I were you. Rosemary's a delicate flower, not one of your usual conquests."

"Oh, come now, Barbie boy," he protested with an exaggerated pout. "You know I was merely appreciating the aesthetic. Although..." His gaze raked over Rosemary's form appreciatively. "Perhaps I could be persuaded to settle down for once if the right opportunity presented itself."

I leveled him with a hard stare. "I'm serious, Antoine. Leave Rosemary be. She's off-limits unless you plan on making an honest woman of her."

He affected a shudder. "What you speak of is...simply revolting." A sly grin followed. "Although, I could always use my persuasion skills to uncover any secrets she might be hiding."