The Butler's Princess

Chapter 3 : Gown

Princess Elodie was not looking forward to the arrival of her ball gown. As the upcoming grand event approached, she became more and more reluctant to attend. Elodie had always felt out of place at these formal affairs, and the idea of dressing up in an elaborate gown filled her with dread.

When Dillon, the palace butler, brought the special delivery to Elodie chambers, he could sense her apprehension. "Your new ball gown has arrived, Your Highness," he announced, carefully placing the garment on the bed.

Elodie eyed the dress with distaste. "I suppose you'll want me to try it on right away," she said, her tone clipped.

"Only if you're ready, Your Highness," Dillon replied evenly. "I'm happy to assist you, but I don't wish to force you into anything you're uncomfortable with."

The princess hesitated, surprised by Dillon's considerate response. Most of the staff would have simply insisted that she put on the dress immediately.

"Well, I might as well get it over with," Elodie sighed, reluctantly stepping towards the bed.

Dillon nodded and moved to help her. Gently, he lifted the gown and held it open so Elodie could slip her arms into the delicate sleeves.

As the princess struggled to fasten the tiny buttons and clasp up the back, her frustration grew. "This is ridiculous!" she huffed. "How am I supposed to move in this thing?"

"Patience, Your Highness," Dillon said calmly, carefully continuing his work. "We'll make a few adjustments to ensure you can move freely."

Elodie shot him a skeptical look but said nothing more, allowing the butler to finish dressing her.

Once she was fully in the gown, Dillon stepped back to admire his handiwork. "There we are. You look absolutely lovely, Your Highness."

Elodie turned to face the mirror, her expression critical. "I look like I'm playing dress-up," she muttered. "This isn't me at all."

Sensing the princess's stubbornness, Dillon chose his next words carefully. "Perhaps we could make a few small changes to the gown to better suit your personal style?" he suggested gently.

Elodie paused, surprised by Dillon's understanding approach. "I... I suppose that could work," she conceded reluctantly.

The butler smiled reassuringly. "Leave it to me, Your Highness. I'll make sure this dress is perfect for you."

As Dillon set to work modifying the gown, Elodie watched with a mixture of skepticism and cautious hope. Maybe, just maybe, she could learn to feel comfortable in this getup after all.

As Dillon carefully adjusted the gown, Elodie felt herself start to relax a bit. The butler's gentle, thoughtful approach put her at ease.

"There, how does that feel, Your Highness?" Dillon asked, stepping back to admire his handiwork.

Elodie turned to look at herself in the mirror again. The dress still had an elegant, refined look, but Dillon had made subtle changes that made it feel more like her own. The neckline was slightly less dramatic, and the skirt had a more natural, flowing movement.

"It's much better," Elodie said, smoothing her hands over the fabric. "I actually feel comfortable in this now."

Dillon smiled. "I'm glad to hear that. My aim was to preserve the beauty of the gown while allowing your own grace and style to shine through."

The princess nodded, impressed by the butler's discerning eye and thoughtful approach. "You have quite the talent, Dillon. I appreciate you taking the time to ensure I feel at ease."

"It is my pleasure, Your Highness," Dillon replied. "As the princess, you should feel confident and like your true self, not just playing a role."

Elodie considered his words, realizing how perceptive he was. "You seem to understand me better than most," she mused. "Even my own mother doesn't always grasp how I feel about these sorts of social obligations."

"I simply aim to be an attentive and empathetic servant, Your Highness," Dillon said humbly. "But I'm honored that you feel I've gained some insight into your perspective."

Elodie smiled, feeling a growing sense of comfort and trust towards the butler. Perhaps, with his help, she could actually enjoy the upcoming ball after all.

"Well then, Dillon, I believe we have some more adjustments to make," she said, turning back to the mirror. "I have a few other ideas I'd like to try..."