Aisle... Be Free (COMPLETED)

Chapter 4: Whispers and Revelations

The dance with Remiel felt like stepping into a dream. The way he twirled me around the floor made me forget the whispers and glances that had followed me since I arrived. He had a knack for making me feel like the only person in the room, even amidst a sea of elegantly dressed guests.

"What brings you to this ball, Lady Elowen?" he asked, his golden eyes sparkling with curiosity as he guided me through the intricate steps of the waltz.

"Just trying to enjoy life post-disaster," I replied, keeping my tone light despite the undercurrent of truth in my words. "You know, the whole 'left at the altar' thing can put a bit of a damper on one's social calendar."

He raised an eyebrow, a hint of mischief in his smile. "I hear you've been quite the topic of discussion since that fateful day. I'm surprised you're here, given all the rumors swirling around."

"Oh, I thrive on rumors," I declared, spinning playfully in his arms. "It's like being in a grand tale but with better costumes."

Remiel laughed, a sound that drew a few curious glances from nearby guests. "I must say, you're handling this with grace. Most would be hiding in their chambers, nursing their heartache."

"Trust me, I've had my share of reflection," I admitted, the corners of my mouth turning up. "But I'm more of a 'dance like no one's watching' kind of person now."

"Excellent philosophy," he said, leaning in a little closer as we danced. "So, what's next on your agenda? Are you planning a grand revenge against your former fiancé and best friend?"

I chuckled, the idea of plotting revenge feeling more like a comedic fantasy than a real plan. "I'm not much of a schemer. I'd rather enjoy my freedom and maybe, just maybe, explore the local pastry shops."

"I can think of a few places," he said with a wink. "But I must warn you: they might not be as easy to escape as they are to enter."

"Sounds like a delightful trap," I teased, feeling the weight of my earlier angst slowly lift as I lost myself in the conversation.

As the music swelled, I noticed some familiar faces in the crowd—specifically, Rowan, who was standing off to the side with a group of guests. His expression was inscrutable, but I could feel the tension in the air as he watched me dance with Remiel. For a brief moment, I felt a surge of satisfaction, knowing I was no longer the vulnerable Elowen he had left behind.

Just then, Agatha appeared beside Rowan, her face a mask of concern as she caught sight of me laughing and dancing. I could only imagine the thoughts racing through her mind—Was I really okay? Did I need saving from my current partner?

Before I could ponder this too long, the music came to an end, and Remiel bowed slightly, his smile still lingering. "Shall we continue this delightful conversation over some refreshments?"

"Lead the way!" I replied, eager to dive deeper into this unexpected connection.

As we walked toward the refreshment table, I spotted a few guests whispering among themselves. Their gazes darted from me to Rowan, and I could feel the gossip swirling again. "Did you see her dancing with him? After everything?" one woman hissed.

"She's clearly moved on, but it's a bold choice," another chimed in, her voice laced with judgment.

"Bold? Or reckless?" the first woman shot back. "What kind of woman dances so soon after being left at the altar?"

I rolled my eyes, trying to block out their words. It was as if I had a permanent spotlight on me, magnifying every little thing I did. But as I glanced at Remiel, who was pouring me a glass of sparkling juice, I realized I didn't care. I was going to enjoy myself, even if it meant being the center of unwanted attention.

"So, Lady Elowen," Remiel began as we settled at a small table draped in fine linens, "what's a girl like you doing at a ball like this?"

"Honestly? Trying to figure out how to navigate this whole noble life without falling flat on my face," I admitted, taking a sip of the bubbly drink. "It feels like I'm stuck in a grand tale, and I'm just waiting for the plot twist."

"Every good story needs a twist. It keeps things interesting," he replied, leaning forward slightly. "And who knows? You might just find your twist in the most unexpected place."

Just then, Rowan approached our table, his demeanor a mixture of determination and apprehension. "Elowen, can we talk?" he asked, his gaze shifting between Remiel and me.

"Isn't it a little late for that?" I replied coolly, my voice carrying an edge that surprised even me.

"Now is the time," Rowan insisted, glancing nervously around as if the room might implode at any moment.

"Oh? But it seems you have a knack for choosing the wrong moments," I shot back, feeling a thrill at standing my ground.

"Please, Elowen. I need to explain—"

"Explain what? That you decided to run off with my best friend on what was supposed to be our wedding day?" 

"Actually, I was hoping to explain what happened afterwards," he said, desperation creeping into his voice.

"Like I said, wrong time!" I retorted, turning back to Remiel. "You were saying something about plot twists?"

Rowan's face darkened as he realized he was losing my attention. "Elowen, please..."

"Rowan, you made your choice," I interrupted, feeling my heart pound. "And I'm perfectly capable of making my own now. Good luck with your life choices."

I glanced at Remiel, who was watching the exchange with a curious, amused expression. I couldn't help but smile; I was finally taking control of my own narrative. I refused to be the abandoned bride pining for her ex. I was Elowen Virelle, and I was reclaiming my story—one dance at a time.

As Rowan walked away, I felt a rush of exhilaration. I turned back to Remiel, who raised his glass in a toast. "To plot twists, unexpected dances, and the courage to move forward."

"Cheers to that!" I clinked my glass against his, feeling lighter than I had in days.

And just like that, amidst the whispers and revelations, I realized that perhaps this ball was not just a social gathering—it was my chance to redefine who I was, and to dance my way into a new chapter of my life.

But just out of curiosity, I haven't seen that snake with a human face named Seraphine. I was kind of expecting she'll be here but I haven't seen her around.

Eh! Well, not that it matters now.