The Vampire's Court

Chapter 11- The Fog

Three days had passed since her outing with Dimitri, and luckily, not another word from him or his haunting emissary since then. Seraphine stood alone, far from the scathing remarks and eyes of her Stepmother and Stepsister, sipping her tea amidst the lush gardens of Lord Thomas Worthington's estate — surrounded by vibrant flowers and towering shrubs. Since the news of her engagement broke, Adonia and Narcisa hadn't wasted a moment of making Seraphine's last week at her family's estate hell.

But, the afternoon sun cast a warm glow, and the soft hum of conversation filled the air. She wore a stunning silk gown in a soft lavender hue, its delicate lace trim and intricate embroidery a testament to the era's opulence. Her ginger hair was styled in an elegant updo, adorned with a sprinkle of pearls and a delicate floral comb.

As she gazed out, lost in thought, a familiar deep voice whispered in her ear, "There you are, darling." Seraphine's heart skipped a beat as she spun around, her eyes locking onto Dimitri's mischievous grin. The same phrase he used at the Somerset ball sent a shiver down her spine. She felt annoyed, irritated, and uneasy, remembering how he tricked her.

Lord Worthington's daughter, Lady Charlotte, was engaged in conversation nearby showing off her new fiancé to a group of friends, oblivious to Seraphine's distress. Seraphine's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with the implications of Dimitri's presence. How did he know she'd be here? What did he hope to achieve by startling her again?

Dimitri's eyes sparkled with amusement, his gaze roaming over her dress and hair. "You look lovely, Seraphine. Though, I prefer your hair down." His voice was low, husky, and sent a flutter through her chest. Seraphine's cheeks flushed with irritation, her anger rising.

Seraphine's eyes narrowed, her voice low and even, "Dimitri." She greeted through gritted teeth, her lips barely moving. Dimitri's gaze sparkled with amusement, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he replied, "Ah, Seraphine, always a pleasure to behold your charming countenance. Though, I must say, your hair seems to be attempting to escape its confines. A metaphor, perhaps, for your own rebellious spirit?"

Seraphine's cheeks flushed with irritation, her hands tightening around her teacup. "What are you doing here?" she snapped, her tone laced with fatigue, as if she'd already endured a lengthy ordeal.

Dimitri's smile grew wider, his lips curling upward in a mischievous arc. "I was invited," he said cooly, his voice dripping with sincerity, though Seraphine knew better. He flashed a smile, his teeth gleaming in the sunlight, a gesture that only served to further unsettle her.

The air was thick with tension as they stood amidst the lush gardens, the gentle hum of conversation and soft clinking of teacups providing a stark contrast to the charged atmosphere between them. Seraphine's gaze lingered on Dimitri's face, searching for any hint of deception, but his expression remained inscrutable, a mask of polite interest.

The sunlight cast a warm glow over the scene, illuminating the intricate embroidery on Seraphine's gown and the delicate petals of the nearby flowers. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the towering shrubs, causing the pearls in Seraphine's hair to quiver, like tiny, luminous tears.

Dimitri stood tall, his black, emerald-trimmed suit a stark contrast to the vibrant gardens surrounding him. The black tailcoat, adorned with intricate embroidery, accentuated his broad shoulders and chest, while the fitted waist highlighted his lean physique. A crisp, white shirt and emerald waistcoat added a touch of elegance, complemented by a black cravat, perfectly knotted. His dark hair, his usual impeccably slicked style, framed his chiseled features, and his piercing eyes seemed to gleam with an inner intensity.

As the sunlight danced across his face, it highlighted the sharp planes of his cheeks and the determined set of his jaw. His lips, curled into a subtle, enigmatic smile, seemed to hold secrets and promises. Seraphine couldn't help but notice the way the light brought out the flecks of gold in his eyes, making them sparkle like sapphires.