A Dance Between Worlds

Chapter Six

Luxia felt her breath catch in her throat as Aelir's gaze locked onto hers. His intense and vivid piercing green eyes seemed to see right through the crowd, focusing solely on her. For a moment, the world around them faded away—the music, the lights, the other guests—and it was as if they were the only two people in the entire garden.

Aelir's expression remained neutral, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes that Luxia couldn't quite place. Surprise? Intrigue? Whatever it was, it held him captivated. Luxia felt her cheeks flush under his scrutiny, and she quickly glanced away, her heart pounding. Hoping no one else had noticed the brief exchange, especially not his bride-to-be. But when she dared to look back, Aelir was still watching her, his eyes following her every movement as if he were trying to decipher a mystery.

Rowynn, sensing Luxia's unease, leaned in close and whispered, "You okay?"

Luxia nodded, trying to steady her breathing. "I'm fine. Just... overwhelmed, I guess."

Before Rowynn could respond, Nimue's voice rang out, clear and melodious, as she addressed the guests. "Thank you all for joining us on this most special night," she said, her smile dazzling. "It is an honor to celebrate this occasion with you all in such a beautiful place."

Nimue's words were met with polite applause, and she gracefully extended her hand to Aelir, inviting him to join her for their first dance of the evening. Aelir took her hand, his movements smooth and practiced, but as they moved to the center of the dance floor, Luxia could feel his gaze flicker back to her, even if only for a split second.

They began to dance, their movements elegant and perfectly synchronized. Nimue's gown flowed around her like a living being, the fabric catching the light with every turn. She was the epitome of grace and beauty, and yet, Luxia couldn't shake the feeling that Aelir's thoughts were elsewhere- that perhaps, just for a moment, they had been on her.

As they danced, Luxia felt a mixture of emotions- this sense of connection to Aelir that she couldn't explain. Even knowing tonight was about Aelir and Nimue and their engagement. But there was something in that fleeting glance, something she wasn't sure she should want.

Luxia wandered through the glowing pathways of the garden while Rowynn chatted with a few friends. The ball was in full swing, but she needed a moment to herself, away from the crowd, to gather her thoughts. The beauty of the gardens was overwhelming; every corner of the landscape was bathed in soft, magical light. The Crystal Falls, with their glowing waters, seemed to beckon her closer. Her heart was still fluttering with excitement of the evening. She hadn't expected to feel this way, to be so swept up in the magic of it all. She hadn't expected to be noticed, not like that, at least. As she stood there, the cool mist kissed her skin. She closed her eyes, letting the soothing sounds of the falls calm her, a soft voice broke through her reverie.

"Are you enjoying your evening?"

Luxia's eyes fluttered open, and she turned to see Aelir standing just a few steps away. The world seemed to still around them, the sound of the falls fading into the background.

Aelir looked different in the moonlight, more striking, more real than she had ever imagined. His presence was overwhelming; his green eyes filled with warmth as they scanned her. For a moment, Luxia forgot where she was, forgot everything except the fact that he was there, talking to her.

"I- I am," Luxia stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's all so... enchanting."

Aelir smiled a small, genuine smile that reached his eyes. "It is. There's something about this place that makes everything feel... magical."

Luxia nodded, unable to tear her gaze away from him. The word "magical" felt like an understatement. The entire night felt surreal, like something out of a dream she never wanted to wake from. There was a lightness in the air, a feeling of endless possibilities, and for the first time, Luxia felt seen.